Robeisy Ramirez and Shakur Stevenson Prepare to Headline Separate April Showdowns

LAS VEGAS (March 29, 2023) – Two-time Olympic gold medalist Robeisy “El Tren” Ramirez (11-1, 7 KOs) has completed training camp ahead of his 12-round battle against former junior featherweight world champion Isaac “Royal Storm” Dogboe (24-2, 15 KOs). The two will lock horns for the vacant WBO featherweight title this Saturday at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa. 

But before closing camp, the 29-year-old southpaw got a training session done with former two-division world champion Shakur Stevenson at the Top Rank Gym in Las Vegas.

Their rivalry began as amateurs, but it has turned into a friendship as both headline separate cards in April. One week after Ramirez-Dogboe, Stevenson returns in a 12-round WBC lightweight title eliminator against Shuichiro Yoshino at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

Ramirez-Dogboe headlines a stacked card streaming live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+. Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Holden Productions, tickets starting at $49.50 are on sale now and available to purchase at www.hardrockcasinotulsa.com.

Stevenson-Yoshino, Jared Anderson-George Arias, and Keyshawn Davis-Anthony Yigit will be broadcast live Saturday, April 8, on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. Promoted by Top Rank, tickets starting at $55 are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com.

Following a recent training session, this is what Ramirez and Stevenson had to say:

Robeisy Ramirez

“I have nothing but positive things to say about Shakur as both a boxer and a person. What started out as a rivalry in the amateurs has evolved into a friendship. It was a pleasure to train with him at the Top Rank Gym, and I wish him the best as he begins to campaign in yet another division and continues to cement his place in the pound-for-pound rankings.”

“I have a lot of respect for Shakur and believe he has the skill and ring IQ to defeat anyone in the very competitive lightweight division. April 8 is another step for him as he continues to show he deserves to fight the biggest names. Good luck to him!”

Shakur Stevenson

“I have a lot of respect for Robeisy and it’s always great to see him. As a two-time Olympic champion, he set the bar extremely high in his amateur career.”

“He has come out to my fights to support me a few different times, and I always appreciate it. I wish him the best of luck in his world title fight this weekend. I would still love the chance to get him in the ring at some point, even in just a sparring session because I’m always a competitor first.”




A MONGOLIAN OLYMPIAN, AN IRISH REVIVAL, A FORMER WOMEN’S WORLD CHAMPION, & A NEW YORK CITY GRUDGE MATCH, ALL ON APRIL 27 AT SONY HALL TIMES SQUARE, NY, NY

New York, NY, March 29, 2023 – – BoxingInsider returns for its fourth promotion in 6 months with Broadway Boxing, a card stacked full of local and international talent. Boxinginsider is thrilled to once again work with Hall of Fame promoter Lou DiBella’s DiBella Entwetainment to promote this Broadway Boxing show. This episode features former Mongolian Olympian Tsendbaatar “Chinggis Khaan” Erdenebat, former women’s world champion Miyo Yoshida against Indeya Smith, local boxers Sydney Mccow, Christian Oltero, and Ireland’s Larry Fryers. They will all lace’em up on Thursday, April 27 at Sony Hall, in the heart of Times Square, Manhattan.

The April 27 event, promoted by BoxingInsider Promotions in association with DiBella Entertainment 

“Its crazy to think this is our 4th show since October, in Manhattan,” said BoxingInsider’s Larry Goldberg. “My goal from day 1 has been simple – to put on the best fights with local and international talent and to expose those to the largest possible audience online with quality production. We have a mix of world class fighters and down and dirty slugfests scheduled for this show and there will be 2 more fights to announce in the coming days.”

2021 Mongolian Olympian Tsendbaatar “Chinggis Khaan” Erdenebat (5-0, 3 KOs) will be in an eight-round super featherweight bout against an opponent to be named. Tsendbaatar’s last bout was a third round TKO win on February 23 at Sony Hall.

Former World Champion Miyo “Miyo Musashi” Yoshida (15-3) was born in Kagoshima, Japan and now resides in New York, NY. Prior to becoming world champion in 2019, Miyo won the Japan Boxing Commission title and the Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation title. As world champion, Miyo made one successful defense, then lost the title by technical decision (stoppage due to gash over eye), then won it back in a rematch six months later. In her last fight she lost the WBO title via split decision. 

Indeya Smith (6-6, 1 KO) from Dallas, TX via New Orleans, made her BoxingInsider Promotions debut on December 21 with an upset win over Sulem Urbina, dominating the bout from the opening bell.

Sydney “The Jackal” Mccow (8-8, 3 KOs) born in St Maarten now residing in Brooklyn is coming off a five-fight streak of four wins sandwiched around a no decision. Christian “Veneno” Otero (4-3, 2 KOs) from New York, NY, made his pro debut on October 31, 2020 and his career began with four straight victories.

In one of the most exciting matches a club show could make, this bout features a real-life NYC grudge match between Church St. Boxing trainer and boxer Mccow and fellow New Yorker Otero. The dislike here is real and born in the gym as these two went to war in sparring. Edited footage showing a Mccow beatdown soon hit social media which started an issue that must be solved in the ring, for real.

Joshua David “Pretty Boy” Rivera (8-2, 3 KOs) from La Mesa, California, made his pro debut in 2018 and his first nine fights took place in Tijuana. His last bout, in Madison Square Garden on the Serrano-Cruz February 4 card, was a unanimous decision loss against an undefeated Aaron Aponte.

Larry “Lethal” Fryers (11-6, 4 KOs) was born in Clones, Ireland and now resides in Yonkers, NY. “I love fighting in New York,” said Fryers. “It’s top class and can’t wait for April 27th to fight there again and put on a show for the fans.” Fryers won eleven of his first twelve fights after making his pro debut in 2016. As an amateur, he was an Ireland Nationals U 21 finalist and a U23 semi-finalist.  “Lethal” has a large Irish following and is eyeing another chance at glory.

Streaming and additional match information will be announced shortly.

ABOUT BOXING INSIDER

Established in 1997 as a premier boxing news and information destination, Boxing Insider has recently transitioned into the promotional business.  This will be Boxing Insider’s fourth professional boxing promotion.  It has promoted one amateur boxing event and three professional events, on October 13, December 21, and February 22, all at Sony Hall, Times Square, New York, NY.




April 8: Kenshiro Teraji-Anthony Olascuaga Light Flyweight Title Showdown & Tenshin Nasukawa’s Pro Boxing Debut to Stream LIVE on ESPN+

(March 29, 2023) — The show goes on. WBC/WBA light flyweight world champion Kenshiro “The Amazing Boy” Teraji was supposed to face WBO champ Jonathan Gonzalez in a three-belt unification tilt Saturday, April 8, at Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan. Gonzalez withdrew with an illness, and Teraji will now defend his titles against undefeated American challenger Anthony Olascuaga

The five-fight card will also feature Tenshin Nasukawa’s debut as a professional boxer. The former multi-division kickboxing world champion will face Yuki Yonaha in a six-round junior featherweight attraction.

Teraji-Olascuaga, Nasukawa-Yonaha and additional bouts will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ starting at 3 a.m. ET/12 a.m. PT.

Teraji (20-1, 12 KOs) captured his first world title by defeating Ganigan Lopez for the WBC 108-pound strap. Teraji made eight defenses before losing the belt via 10th-round TKO to Masamichi Yabuki. The 31-year-old avenged the loss by stopping Yabuki in the third round of their rematch to regain the title. Teraji then notched his most impressive victory last November by stopping Hiroto Kyoguchi in the seventh round to unify the WBC and WBA championships.    

Olascuaga (5-0, 3 KOs), a 24-year-old upstart from Los Angeles, turned pro in 2020 and won a regional flyweight belt in his third pro bout. He went 3-0 in 2022, toppling Gilberto Pedroza by unanimous decision in March, stopping the previously unbeaten Gustavo Perez Alvarez in six in May, and icing Marco Sustaita in one round last October. He will make his 108-pound debut against Teraji.

In other scheduled action on the ESPN+ stream:

  • Takuma Inoue (17-1, 4 KOs) vs. Liborio Solis (35-6-1, 16 KOs), 12 rounds, vacant WBA Bantamweight World Title—The younger brother of pound-for-pound phenom Naoya Inoue has won four straight fights since challenging Nordine Oubaali for the WBC crown. Solis, a former junior bantamweight world champion, will be making his fifth attempt at a bantamweight world title.
     
  • Kiko Martinez (44-11-2, 31 KOs) vs. Reiya Abe (24-3-1, 10 KOs), 12 rounds, IBF Featherweight World Title Eliminator —Spanish warrior Martinez is a two-weight world champion who hopes to regain the IBF featherweight crown currently held by Top Rank’s Luis Alberto Lopez. He is coming off a stunning fourth-round stoppage over European champion Jordan Gill. Abe has won five straight fights and has never been knocked out in the paid ranks.
     
  • Jin Sasaki (14-1-1, 13 KOs) vs. Keita Obara (26-4-1, 23 KOs), 12 rounds, Sasaki’s WBO Asia Pacific Welterweight Title.

# # #
About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 24.9 million subscribers. Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $9.99 a month (or $99.99 per year) at ESPN.comESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices). 




KATIE TAYLOR VS. CHANTELLE CAMERON TICKETS GO ON SALE NEXT WEEK!

Tickets for Katie Taylor’s historic homecoming clash with undisputed Super-Lightweight World Champion Chantelle Cameron at the 3Arena in Dublin, Ireland on Saturday May 20, shown live worldwide on DAZN, will go on sale next week. 

Irish legend Taylor (22-0, 6 KOs) fights in Ireland for the first time in her professional career as she bids to create even more history and further cement herself as the greatest female fighter on the planet when she meets England’s Cameron.

Cameron (17-0, 8 KOs) achieved a lifetime dream by outpointing the USA’s Jessica McCaskill to be crowned undisputed at 140lbs at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates last November, and the 31-year-old is relishing her first defence against Taylor. 

A huge undercard sees Terri Harper (13-1-1, 6 KOs) defend her WBA Super-Welterweight World Title against former world pound-for-pound No.1 Cecilia Braekhus (37-2, 9 KOs), Dennis Hogan (31-4-1, 7 KOs) defend his IBO Super-Welterweight World Title against James Metcalf (24-2, 15 KOs), Cherneka Johnson (15-1, 6 KOs) defend her IBF Super-Bantamweight World Title against Ellie Scotney (6-0), action for rising Irish Lightweight star Gary Cully (16-0, 10 KOs) and undefeated Heavyweight Thomas Carty (4-0, 3 KOs), with more fights to be announced soon.

Tickets for Taylor vs. Cameron are priced €80, €100, €140, €250, €500, €750 and €1,500 (VIP).

Tickets are available via the 3arena venue pre sale from 10.00am on Monday April 3.

Matchroom Fight Pass members will be able to purchase tickets from 10.00am on Tuesday April 4. Priority ticket info will be emailed directly to eligible members ahead of the on-sale time. 

General Sale tickets can be purchased via Stage Front and Ticket Master from 10.00am on Wednesday April 5.




Janibek Alimkhanuly-Steven Butler & Jason Moloney-Vincent Astrolabio Championship Doubleheader Set for May 13 at Stockton Arena LIVE on ESPN

STOCKTON, Calif. (March 29, 2023) — Undefeated Kazak phenom Janikbek “Qazaq Style”Alimkhanuly will defend his WBO middleweight world title in the main event against Canadian contender Steven Butler on Saturday, May 13, at Stockton Arena in Stockton, California.

In the co-feature, former two-time world title challenger Jason “Mayhem” Moloney will face big-punching Filipino contender Vincent Astrolabio for the vacant WBO bantamweight title.

Alimkhanuly-Butler and Moloney-Astrolabio will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Featured on the EPSN+-streamed undercard is the return of “Stockton’s King,” Gabriel Flores Jr. (21-2, 7 KOs). The 22-year-old will fight in an eight-round lightweight bout and hopes to rebound from last July’s loss to Giovanni Cabrera.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Eye of the Tiger, ticket information will be announced shortly.

“We are excited to bring two world championship fights to the wonderful fight city of Stockton,” said Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum. “Janibek is the most avoided middleweight in the world, but Steven Butler did not hesitate to take on the challenge. Jason Moloney has been close to a world title before, but he’ll need to be at his best to defeat a determined Filipino in Vincent Astrolabio.”

“I’m very proud of the character Steven has shown to work his way back to the top,” said Camille Estephan, President of Eye of the Tiger. “We are not going to miss our chance. We’re going to cause a surprise on May 13.”

Janibek (13-0, 8 KOs), a native of Zhilandy, Kazakhstan, took the fast track to title contention after representing his country in the 2016 Olympics. He captured his first pair of regional titles in 2019 by defeating Cristian Olivas. In 2021, Janibek stopped former world champions Hassan N’Dam and Rob Brant. The following year, the 29-year-old blasted out Danny Dignum in two rounds to capture the interim WBO middleweight title, earning a shot at then-champion Demetrius Andrade. Janibek was elevated to world champion after Andrade elected to move up in weight rather than defend his title. The southpaw defended his title against Denzel Bentley via a 12-round decision last November.

“All of the middleweights have run scared, so I give Steven Butler a lot of credit for accepting the fight,” Janibek said. “I want to unify the division, but I cannot overlook Butler. He is a tough, powerful challenger, and I look forward to giving a tremendous show to the fans in Stockton and those watching on ESPN.”

Butler (32-3-1, 26 KOs) is a nine-year pro from Montreal, Canada. He captured the IBF North American belt via first-round knockout against Janks Trotter in 2016 before suffering his first defeat against then-undefeated Brandon Cook the following year. Butler bounced back with eight knockout victories before decisioning Vitalii Kopylenko to capture the WBC International middleweight title. The 27-year-old then traveled to Japan to challenge Ryota Murata for the WBA title in a valiant but unsuccessful effort. Butler is now coming off four wins, two of them by knockout.

Butler said, “No detail will be spared in this training camp. Expect a big upset on May 13. I am confident that I will bring the belt back to Quebec.”

Moloney (25-2, 19 KOs) began his career in the paid ranks as a junior featherweight before moving down to 118 pounds in 2017. As a bantamweight, he scored three knockout wins in a row before losing to Emmanuel Rodriguez via split decision in his first world title opportunity. He then stopped four opponents in a row before challenging pound-for-pound king Naoya Inoue for the unified bantamweight championship. Moloney is coming off four consecutive wins, including a third-round knockout over Filipino contender Aston Palicte.

“On May 13 I will become champion of the world. Nineteen years of hard work, countless sacrifices, and complete dedication to the sport all come down to this moment,” Moloney said. “Whatever it takes to have this world championship wrapped around my waist, nothing will stop me. I want to say a big thank you to Top Rank and my team for giving me this opportunity.” 

Astrolabio (18-3, 13 KOs) is a 25-year-old native of the Philippines who burst onto the scene last year with a 10-round unanimous decision against former unified world champion Guillermo Rigondeaux. Last November, he dropped Nikolai Potapov three times before stopping him in the sixth round to earn a crack at his first world title.

“Ever since I started boxing my dream was to fight for a world title, and dreams do come true with hard work,” Astrolabio said. “I have played this moment over and over in my head, and I will not be denied the world title. I want to thank my promoter, Manny Pacquiao, and Sean Gibbons for getting me this WBO bantamweight world title shot.”

In undercard action, streaming live and exclusively on ESPN+:

  • In an eight-round middleweight bout, former U.S. amateur star Javier Martinez (8-0, 2 KOs) makes his 2023 debut. Martinez dominated the durable Marco Delgado last November in a career-best performance.
     
  • Atlanta-based welterweight standout Brian Norman Jr. (23-0, 19 KOs) comes back in an eight-rounder. Norman made his Top Rank debut in January with an eight-round decision over Rodrigo Damian Coria.
     
  • Junior lightweight prospect Haven Brady Jr. (9-0, 4 KOs) makes his second appearance of 2023 in an eight-rounder. Brady turned back the gritty challenge of Ruben Cervera in January to improve to 9-0.



VIDEO: Anthony Joshua vs Jermaine Franklin Plus Undercard Press Conference




JOSHUA VS. FRANKLIN FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman:

“Welcome back to London ahead of a huge night on Saturday night from The O2 Arena, the Lion’s Den and the scene of so many great Anthony Joshua nights. We return there for perhaps one of the most important fights of his career. Anthony Joshua takes on Jermaine Franklin live and exclusive on DAZN around the world. We cannot wait for the return. It has been nearly ten years since Anthony Joshua turned professional, seven years since he last performed at The O2 Arena. We’re just a couple of hundred of tickets away from a complete sell-out as we look forward to a great night of boxing, a great undercard and a big Heavyweight night for Anthony Joshua back at The O2. Of course this time around on DAZN. We’re delighted to welcome Joe Markowski and the team, our global broadcast partner, as the growth continues in the US and in the UK. It is an unrivalled schedule and value for money for the customer. As always, the action is available on the iPhone, on the tablet, through the smart TV, but now of course via SKY channel 429, via Virgin and also in the pubs. It is what you have been asking for for so long as this platform continues to grow globally. It is a major night for DAZN this Saturday with the first fight of Anthony Joshua’s new contract.”

Anthony Joshua:

“It’s big, it’s massive. It’s a big fight for me, for sure. I respect my opponent fully and respect everything he’s been through and we’re here to rock and roll. I respect my supporters as well so I have put in the work, I respect my coach as well so I want to make sure I get the job done in good finish. I like the fact you always dangle carrots in front of me, telling me if I do this, this is here and that’s there always leading onto big things. I dream big and I want bigger and better things in my life. As I stated in the last press conference, I want to secure the bag and move on in my life.

“The goal is not to make it back to the corner, the goal is to take him out. I respect Derrick fully and I trust everything he’s been saying. When you’re a student of the game, there are certain times you can be on the same level as people you speak to about boxing but when I speak to Derrick and ask him certain questions, the knowledge he spits is phenomenal. The knowledge he gives me is really, really good. We’re at a stage now where the physical side of the fight is done. Fight week you are still training because it’s part of our nature, but the physical work is done and it’s all about the knowledge. You just have to train your mind and honestly Derrick is up there with one of the best people I’ve spoke to about boxing. I appreciate his time, I appreciate the fact he took me on and I am looking forward to showing him he hasn’t wasted his time by taking on this project.

“When you strip boxing back, it is very basic. A lot of it is down to self belief number one and just knowledge. You gain knowledge and apply it along the way. You fight with desire and then you can add some skills along the way. I was based in the Olympic gym in Sheffield for years. Obviously it’s a big set up because you’ve got hundreds of fighters and international fighters coming in. In the world class boxing gym in Texas, there’s a few of us pros just putting in the ground work. That is probably what you saw was difference is that I am not around hundreds of fighters in the gym. It is just three or four of us putting in the work. But when you disconnect from everything, which is hard to do in this day and because we’re so connect, but I took myself away to disconnect myself and all the questions I have been asking myself, the answers came. It was quiet time and it has been a good camp. It is good to be back in the UK but everyone knows the UK is a little dead so I can’t wait to get back to Texas and get back to putting in the work.

“It is the worst time. The more he talks, the bigger grave he digs for himself but it is what it is. I could say a lot of things about him but I respect my opponent. It is not for me to talk, it is for you to do all the talking and for me to do my job on Saturday. That is really honestly what I am focused on from round one to round 12. I am prepared for a 12-rounder but I do believe in my ability, my counter-punching and all that type of stuff to definitely put a dent in Jermaine. But I am not here to talk, I am here to do what I have to do because I really want to win.

“Yeah, that is personal and to show my coach that I respect the time he has put in with me. In terms of entertaining, we don’t play boxing, but at the same time people from years back and the empires, they love people coming together and fighting. There will be entertainment regardless. I think we will see blood and I just really look forward to getting in there again. I’m so happy I’m fighting again because when you look at the champions now, it is just a shambles when you are trying to compete with mandatories and negotiations, honestly I can’t believe no fights have been made at championship level. I am so happy I can get back to work, get on with my job and I am looking forward to this assignment. I can’t wait honestly. I am really looking forward to it.”

“I will come out, do this, do that. As he said, it is by any means necessary. We are just here to do a job. I respect my opponent and may the best man win. One thing he said is he started eating right for this camp, he’s dealing with someone who has been living right from the get go. I have been putting in work from the day I started this business. It’s going to be a good fight because he’s up against a real one, for sure.”
 
Derrick James:

“First of all I’m happy to be here, and I think that I’ve learnt a lot about Anthony from his dedication and the fact that he is always a student and always wants more. This Saturday we will show everything that we have been working on. I think that Jermaine Franklin is a very tough fighter. I really don’t care how we get the win; I just care that we get it. If it gets to a point where I can see it, then let’s go get it. Initially he’s just going in there and it’s all about winning the fight. Regardless of how he wins, I don’t care about that. I just care that he comes out victorious. If I see the knockout then let’s go take him. I’m excited to be here. This is my first fight as a Heavyweight trainer. We’re coming over to the UK and everyone has been very receptive and very nice. It’s all about the focus and all about how much he’s dedicated and sacrificed to be here. He sacrificed the comfort of the UK to come to Dallas. Even in the winter time it is hot. You sacrifice. That’s what it Is all about. Everybody is working hard. Everybody is pushing hard. It is about what you’re willing to give up to be successful, because everybody is working hard, but not everybody is willing to give up something. AJ was willing to sacrifice something and you’re going to see how that pays off on Saturday.”

Jermaine Franklin:

“First off, I want to say it is an honour to be back in the UK. I appreciate the opportunity. In the beginning I’ve just been on a little health journey. I changed my eating habits and changed stuff that I was consuming. My body weight just started falling off. We had more time to prepare for this fight so I’m more ready and I’m more in shape. I’m just ready to let the fireworks go. I’m just a huge fan of the sport. I watch a lot of boxing. I watched AJ fights way before we even had this opportunity or thought it was possible. I’m just a huge fan of the sport. My confidence is always great. I think you’re in the wrong business if you don’t truly believe in yourself – this is not the right game for you. You always have to have the extreme upmost confidence in yourself and you just have to put your faith in the work that’s gone on behind it. I’m going to get the win by any means possible. But if I can put him on his ass then that’s what I’m going to try to do. Anything is possible. I come from a place with not a lot of possibilities, and I made it this far so anything is possible. My passion for the sport, my team and my family; that’s all the motivation I need. I believe my hands get raised at the end of the fight.”

Jesse Addison:

“I come here with even more confidence. We went to training camp in Florida, we had a very nice training camp. I got a chance to do things with him that I wanted to do, the way that I knew was best for Jermaine. We put a lot of assignments out in front of him and he passed every assignment, so now we’re just looking to past the big test this Saturday. Hard work is the key to victory on Saturday. He has worked very hard, he has worked extremely hard. Like I say, we went to Florida, we dug down real deep. We trained in the morning, we trained in the evening. We trained at night. We didn’t rest. We just trained trained trained. Jermaine is ready, he’s ready for this fight. This is something that I prepared him for. I told him that one day he would be up against Anthony Joshua, Deontay Wilder, Tyson Fury, and so now that plan is becoming a reality. At any given time a fighter gets in the ring, he’s there for the taking. I respect everything Anthony Joshua has accomplished as a fighter, he’s a great fighter. I don’t feel like that if he loses this fight his career is over. You know, that’s just this new era of boxing. Back when Muhammad Ali and George Foreman and Joe Frazier, them guys were losing fights on the regular, but they would come right back and they would fight for a world Championship, and I think that’s where we’re going back to now because we’ve got so many gifted Heavyweights out there. When Jermaine gets in there with him this Saturday night he will suffer a loss. I see my man winning. I see my man winning the fight. If we win by knockout, we’ll win the fight. If we go to a decision, he’ll win the fight. As far as Anthony Joshua being a big man, we don’t worry about that. Jermaine has been fighting big men his whole career. Going through the amateurs we were fighting guys who were 6’6” plus regularly. He was the shortest man in the division. We’re well prepared for this.”

Dmirty Salita:

“We’re very grateful for the opportunity and always love being in England for big fights. I’m very grateful and honoured. As Muhammad Ali used to say, ‘the will has to be bigger than the skill’. And in this fight, Jermaine’s skill is going to be bigger than Anthony Joshua’s skill. Anthony Joshua is a great fighter and someone that I look up to and admired for many many years, and still admire. He is a great fighter. The show is appropriately called New Dawn and new day, because a new day is coming for Jermaine Franlkin. I’ve seen him train in Florida several weeks ago. He looks in incredible shape. His trainer for many many years Jesse is going to be in his corner and they had a great camp. We’re looking forward to a big upset. I believe that as fighters we have four things that drive us; so Anthony Joshua is a World Champion, made tremendous pay days, is a celebrity, great fighter, he’s accomplished everything, in the ring when you’re faced with a feeling of being uncomfortable you think about all of these forces that drive you, and Anthony Joshua has accomplished all of these things. Jermaine Franklin is a hungry fighter who has the skills and the potential to accomplish this and every day of his training camp and of his life he’s been dreaming of this moment. I believe that Anthony at this stage of his career has to think about it, has to have his trainer motivate him and has to have a sports psychologist. Jermaine on the other hand is internally motivated from the time he gets up until the time he goes to sleep. His dreams are of winning this fight and I believe when Jermaine is going to make Joshua uncomfortable those are our keys to victory.”

Joseph Markowski:

“Thank you Eddie and thank you to all of the media for being here today. As you say it is a huge night for us and part of a huge schedule this Spring in the UK and around the world. Several homecomings, Canelo’s homecoming on May 6th, Katie Taylor’s homecoming in Ireland on May 20th and of course AJ’s homecoming at The O2 in London this weekend. Having worked with AJ for several years now around the world we are delighted and very proud to be the exclusive broadcaster in the UK for AJ’s career and for this fight this Saturday night. You’ve talked about our increased distribution and we’re extremely excited about making this content available via DAZN to anyone on any screen. We’re extremely excited about what Saturday night brings and what it means for AJ’s career, what it means for our business and what it means for our partnership with Matchroom. We’re looking forward to Saturday night. We’re going to keep on investing in the best boxing schedule we can deliver but this weekend is all about AJ, it is all about delivering value to our customers, the fight is available in the UK within your subscription. We’re tremendously excited and very proud and looking forward to a big night on Saturday night.”




ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 44 FIGHT CARD ANNOUNCED

Long Island, NY (March 29, 2023) – The buzz is in the air, which can only mean one thing, another critically acclaimed “Rockin’ Fights” is around the corner at The Paramount. On Saturday May 13, Star Boxing returns to Pollstar’s #1 rated Club Venue in the World for the 44th edition of “Rockin’ Fights,” for an event that is shaping up as a night to be remembered.

With great anticipation, returning to the ring is newly sworn-in officer for the Suffolk County Police Department and hometown undefeated super lightweight prospect, ALEX “EL TORO” VARGAS (Bellport, NY 12-0 4KO’s). Vargas makes his highly anticipated return to the ring at “Rockin’ Fights” after taking time off due to his required police academy training. After the 18 month police training hiatus, Vargas will walk into that ring for the first time as a Police Officer. Long Island is clamoring for the return of “El Toro” in an 8-round super lightweight bout and tickets have been moving fast.

Two other exciting 8-round bouts will be featured along with the return of Alex Vargas. Fans will be treated to the return of former WBC FECARBOX Champion, and Paramount veteran, DANNY “EL GALLO” GONZALEZ (20-4-1 8KO’s) as he faces Dublin, Ireland’s KEANE “ICE MAN” MCMAHON (7-3 4KO’s) in a cross-roads welterweight bout. Both Gonzalez and McMahon are looking to capitalize on the opportunity with the hope that a victory on May 13 will catapult into a bigger opportunity.

In another highly anticipated bout, Star Boxing will do a “take 2” on undefeated super lightweight and former Irish prospect of the year, “THE SILENT ASSASSIN” RYAN O’ROURKE (9-0 2KO’S) who will throw down with southpaw, DASHAUN “TOO SWEET” JOHNS (Brooklyn, NY 4-2 3KO’S) in a step-up fight that will pit two hungry, up and coming fighters in an significant early career 8-round fight. O’Rourke returns to the United States where he has gained momentum with his recent victories at Star Boxing’s “Shore Wars” and “Rivers Casino Fight Night.” John’s returns to the Paramount for the second time, stating that for him, this fight is “unfinished business.” The previously scheduled O’Rourke-Johns bout in March was postponed due to O’Rourke falling ill with the flu.

In a 6-round light heavyweight bout, Irish born, Yonkers based, undefeated power puncher, and former Star Boxing intern, HARLEY “HEAVY HANDS” BURKE (7-0 6KO’s), will make his Star Boxing debut at The Paramount when he takes on KAMRON HUMPHREY (3-1 2KO’s) of Brooklyn, New York. Burke will fight in his home state of New York for the first time against Humphrey who will make his second appearance in the “Rockin’ Fights” series. Humphrey earned a TKO victory last March at Rockin’ Fights 41, but on May 13, Burke hopes to put an end to Humphrey’s success at the venue.

Bronx-bred fire fighter LOU “IL MARTELLO” MAIETTA (2-3-1) will lace up the gloves in a rematch with LEVAN LOUTSOUPITZE (Astoria, NY 0-1) over 4 rounds at the light heavyweight max. The two fought an entertaining 4 rounder in Star Boxing’s “Jersey City Fight Night,” and had the crowd on their feet with every blow. Loutsoupitze vows to avenge his loss, meanwhile Maietta looks to prove his unanimous decision victory was no fluke.

Finally, in 4 rounds of action, Passaic New Jersey’s, ERICK PEREZ will make his pro debut in a super featherweight bout vs DOM BREEN of Staten Island, New York (0-1).

Star Boxing CEO, JOE DEGUARDIA, had this to say about Rockin’ Fights 44, “We are happy to be back at The Paramount on May 13. It is our home away from home, and we are happy to provide the opportunity for local fighters to compete at another one of our thrilling shows. We congratulate and are proud of Alex Vargas in accomplishing his goal of becoming a Suffolk County Police Officer. We look forward to his return to the ring along with the other thrilling fights scheduled. Each fight has its own great story line. From police officers, to firemen, to rematches and unfinished business, ‘Rockin’ Fights’ 44 brings both the action and intriguing stories for what should make for a great night of fights.”

“ROCKIN’ FIGHTS” 44 TICKETS ON SALE NOW

BUY TICKETS HERE!
TICKETS NOW ON SALE STARTING AT JUST $50

FIGHT NIGHT: SATURDAY, MAY 13, 2023 AT THE PARAMOUNT

“Rockin’ Fights” 44 is presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing

PAST RELEASES:

“Rockin’ Fights” 44 set to take place on May 13

“Rockin’ Fights” 44 tickets now open to the general public

ABOUT ROCKIN’ FIGHTS

Created in 2011, the “Rockin’ Fights” series has developed elite boxing talent and has produced former WBO Light Heavyweight World Champion, the “Common Man”, JOE “THE BEAST” SMITH JR. (Mastic, Long Island 28-4 22KO’s) and former WBO Super Lightweight World Champion, CHRIS ALGIERI (Huntington, NY 25-4 9KO’S), two of only four Long Island World Champions EVER.

“ROCKIN’ FIGHTS” 44 is presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.

For more information visit us at www.StarBoxing.com. For 30 years of action packed fights, subscribe to our YouTube channel HERE. Follow along on social media for fight announcements and updates @StarBoxing, and join the conversation using #RockinFights.

SUBSCRIBE TO STAR BOXING TV:

STAR BOXING TV brings you live action, Star Boxing archives and countless hours of thrilling professional boxing with over 30 years of entertainment.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

STAR BOXING ARCHIVES:




Top Rank Presents: WBO Featherweight World Championship Robeisy Ramírez vs. Isaac Dogboe

Top Rank Boxing on ESPN presented by AutoZone Ramírez vs. Dogboe will stream live this Saturday, April 1 at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT exclusively on ESPN+. The event takes place at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa in Tulsa, OK.  

The main event features a battle for the vacant WBO featherweight world championship between 29-year-old Cuban sensation Robeisy “El Tren” Ramírez (11-1, 7 KOs) and the 28-year-old Ghanaian former world champion Isaac “Royal Storm” Dogboe (24-2, 16 KOs)

Ramírez enters the title bout having won 11 straight, including a successful return victory over Adán Gonzáles who stunned Ramírez via split decision in his pro debut. Now the highly decorated amateur prodigy and two-time Olympic Gold Medalist steps up to the plate in his first-ever world title opportunity. 

The fighting pride of Africa, Dogboe was born in Ghana and now resides in London, England as he looks to become a two-division world champion. Dogboe previously held the WBO junior featherweight world title, including one successful title defense before going nearly 24-straight rounds in back-to-back wars against Emanuel Navarrete. Since then, “Royal Storm” has bounced back with four-straight victories to set up his next world title opportunity. 

The co-feature includes a 10-round featherweight match-up between two-time world title challenger Joet González and Mexico’s José Enrique Vivas.

González (25-3, 15 KOs) debuted in the pro ranks in 2012 and was 23-0 before facing Shakur Stevenson for the vacant WBO featherweight title in 2019. He dominated veteran Miguel Marriaga before losing his second attempt at the WBO strap in a 2021 Fight of the Year contender against Emanuel Navarrete. González stopped Joe Santísima via ninth-round TKO last March before dropping a split decision to Dogboe in July. Vivas (22-2, 11 KOs) is coming off last May’s split decision victory over Edy Valencia.

ESPN’s Joe Tessitore will call the action with Hall of Famers Andre Ward and Timothy Bradley, Jr. as analysts; Mark Kriegel and Bernardo Osuna will serve as reporters.

ESPN.com

Out Friday: How Robeisy Ramírez’s Disastrous Debut Nearly Derailed All He Worked For, by Ben Baby

Original Content: Blood, Sweat & Tears: Ramírez vs. Dogboe

Ahead of the April 1 event, ESPN will air Blood, Sweat & Tears: Ramírez vs. Dogboe, a 30-minute all-access preview that will feature both training camps ahead of the battle for the vacant WBO featherweight world championship.

In addition to the air times below, Blood, Sweat & Tears: Ramírez vs. Dogboewill also be available for replay on-demand in the ESPN App and on ESPN.com and ESPN+. 

Blood, Sweat & Tears: Ramírez vs. Dogboe 

Date Network Time (ET)
Wed Mar 29 ESPN 2 9:30 p.m.
Thu Mar 30 ESPNEWS 8:30 a.m.
Fri Mar 31 ESPNEWS 9:30 a.m.
Sat Apr 1  ESPN 2  12:30 a.m. 
6 p.m. 

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

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

 Follow @ESPNRingside: Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok

All Times ET

Date Time Event Fights Network
Sat. Apr 1 10:00 p.m. Main Robeisy Ramírez vs. Isaac Dogboe ESPN+ (Vacant) WBO Featherweight
Co- Feature Joet Gonzalez vs. Jose Enrique Vivas   
7:10 p.m. Feature Jahi Tucker vs. Nikoloz Sekhniashvili  
Undercard Jeremiah Milton vs. Fabio Maldonado  
Undercard Tiger Johnson vs. Alfonso Olvera  
Undercard Dante Benjamin Jr. vs. Jasper McCargo  
Undercard Emiliano Fernando Vargas vs. Edgar Uvalle  
Undercard Erick Benitez vs. Abdullah Mason  
Undercard Rohan Polanco vs. Ricardo Quiroz  

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

About ESPN+? 

ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 24.9 million subscribers. Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $9.99 a month (or $99.99 per year) at?ESPN.com,?ESPNplus.com?or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices).?   




ANDERSON SILVA’S SON, GABRIEL SILVA MAKES PRO BOXING DEBUT AT HOLLYWOOD FIGHT NIGHTS FRIDAY, APRIL 14 – COMMERCE CASINO AND UFC FIGHT PASS

Los Angeles, CA (March 29, 2023) The Son of a Legend, Gabriel Silva, will make his professional boxing debut on Friday, April 14 at the next Hollywood Fight Nights event from the Commerce Casino in Los Angeles, CA and broadcast live internationally on UFC FIGHT PASS (Subscribe Here / 50% Discount Using ‘March’ Password Until 3/3123. The event is promoted by Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions.

The 25-year-old Silva, the son of UFC legend Anderson Silva, will be featured in a four-round middleweight bout. The Hawthorne, CA native, trained by the renowned Manny Robles

has an 8-1 professional kick-boxing record.

Said the younger Silva, “I am very excited to be making my professional debut on April 14 at the Commerce Casino. My trainer Manny Robles and I have been working very hard to put on a great show.”

“Big thanks to my Dad for his support and to Tom Loeffler and 360 Promotions for this opportunity.” Following an iconic career, father Anderson Silva will be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame this summer.

“We’re very excited to announce the addition of Gabriel Silva’s pro debut to this almost sold-out event on April 14,” said Tom Loeffler. “Gabriel has been training diligently with Manny Robles and we’re looking forward to a great performance for the fans in attendance and those watching on UFC FIGHT PASS.”

“This is our first event at Commerce Casino which we moved to accommodate more fans than the Quiet Cannon and we’re trending towards another advance sell-out with only 100 tickets still remaining for sale.”

The April 14 event is headlined by a can’t miss cross-town rivalry featherweight showdown between popular, hard-hitting Omar Cande Trinidad, (11-0-1, 9 KOs), of Los Angeles, CA and Downey, CA native Adan Ochoa, (12-2, 5 KOs), scheduled for eight rounds.

Remaining tickets for April 14 priced at $200, $150, $100, $80 and $60 can be purchased online at www.360Promotions.us.The Commerce Casino is located at 6131 Telegraph Road, Commerce, CA 90040. Doors will open on the night of the event at 6:00 p.m. For more information and directions please visit www.CommerceCasino.com

Attached Photos / Team Silva

Social Media

#HollywoodFightNights

#UFCFightPass

Instagram

@ufcfightpass

@360BoxingPromotions

@TomLoeffler1

@howlerheadehiskey

Twitter

@UFCFightPass

@360BoxingPromos

@TomLoeffler1

 @howlerhead

Facebook

@UFCFightPass

@360BoxingPromos

@howlerheadwhiskey

Website

www.360Promotions.us




VERGIL ORTIZ, JR. PULLS OUT OF FIGHT AGAINST EIMANTAS STANIONIS SCHEDULED FOR APRIL 29

LOS ANGELES, CA (March 29, 2023) – In preparation for his upcoming fight on April 29 in Arlington, Texas, Vergil Ortiz, Jr. has had to pull out of his main event versus Eimantas Stanionis for the WBA Regular Welterweight World Championship due to a flare-up with rhabdomyolysis. Ortiz was diagnosed in March 2022 with the serious condition which can cause permanent organ damage and can be potentially fatal. He is expected to make a full recovery and return to the ring later this year.

“Vergil works tirelessly to prepare for his fights and this is of course a huge disappointment for Golden Boy, him and his family,” said Chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya. “Despite this setback, I truly believe Vergil remains focused and will accomplish his goal of becoming a world champion this year and going on to become the top welterweight in the division.”

More information on the April 29 event will be announced shortly.




Undefeated Irish Sensation Feargal McCrory on Friday, April 14th at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia

Philadelphia (March 28, 2023)–- On Friday night, April 14th, R and B Promotions will make it’s Philadelphia debut when they present an 11-bout card at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

Taking part in the six-round main event will be undefeated Feargal McCrory taking on Eduardo Pereira Dos Reis in a lightweight fight.

McCrory of Coalisland, Northern Ireland is 13-0 with six knockouts. The 30 year-old is a eight-year professional who has wins over Jay Carmey (5-1-2)Callum Busutil (2-0) and Brayan Mairena (10-2-1). McCrory stropped Aelio Mesquita in one-round on February 11th in Atlantic City.

Dos Reis of Brazil is 24-11 with 19 knockouts. The 33 year-old is a 15 year-pro with wins over Thiago Cristino Bento (1-0), Daniel Lima Santos (4-1).

In Six-round bouts:

Gian Garrido (9-0, 7 KOs) of Flushing, New York takes on an opponent to be named in a middleweight contest.

Naheem Parker (5-0, 2 KOs) of Camden, NJ takes on an opponent to be named in a lightweight bout,

In four-round bouts:

James White (1-0, 1 KO) of Warwick, PA fights debuting Wilfiried Aby of Philadelphia in a light heavyweight bout.

Seeng Voong (0-1) of Philadelphia takes on Miguel Garcia (1-0) of Somers Point, NJ in a junior lightweight tussle.

Juan Davila (2-0, 1 KO) of Franklin, New Jersey fights Tony Johnson (0-1) of Tucson, Arizona in a lightweight clash.

Rahiem Davis Cooke (1-4) of Philadelphia battles Genesis Wynn (1-3) of Denver in a welterweight fight.

Thomas Santiago of Philadelphia makes his long awaited pro debut against an opponent to be named in a super middleweight fight.

In a battle of pro debuting junior middleweights, Jamar Lynch of Philadelphia faces Allen Otto of Cherry Hill, New Jersey.

Daniel Bean of Old Bridge, New Jersey makes his pro debut against Donald Hoskins II (0-0-1) of Kalamazoo, Michigan in a heavyweight bout.

Leonidas Soprandis (1-1-1, 1 KO) of Greece takes on pro debuting Adrian Lescay Baro of Miami Gardens, Florida in a junior welterweight contest.

Tickets are $60, $75, $100 and $175 and can be purchased by clicking the following link.

https://2300arena.showare.com/orderticketsvenue.asp?p=448




The King’s Gambit: Undisputed Lightweight Champion Devin Haney to Defend Crown Against Vasiliy Lomachenko May 20 at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas LIVE on Top Rank on ESPN+ PPV

LAS VEGAS (March 28, 2023) — Two of boxing’s pound-for-pound best will battle for lightweight supremacy as Devin “The Dream” Haney defends his undisputed crown against Ukraine’s three-division world champion Vasiliy Lomachenko on Saturday, May 20, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Haney vs. Lomachenko will stream live on Top Rank on ESPN+ PPV, the exclusive digital distributor for the event in the United States, beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. The PPV will be priced at $59.99 and additionally be available via cable and satellite pay-per-view providers.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Devin Haney Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, tickets starting at $104, plus applicable service charges, go on sale Friday, March 31 at 10 a.m. PT and will be available to purchase at axs.com.

“Devin Haney is the sport’s brightest young superstar, and he’s taking on a tremendous challenge against one of this generation’s best pound-for-pound fighters in Vasiliy Lomachenko. This is what boxing is all about,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Devin and Loma are sensational boxers, and I’m sure it will be a memorable fight.”

Haney (29-0, 15 KOs) will fight in the U.S. for the first time since defeating George Kambosos Jr. in Australia twice last year to capture and retain the undisputed championship. The 24-year-old has been on a unique path since turning pro in Mexico in 2015 when he was 17. He made his stateside debut on the Manny Pacquiao-Timothy Bradley III undercard at MGM Grand Garden Arena in 2016. Following a fourth-round stoppage over then-undefeated Zaur Abdullaev, Haney was awarded the WBC lightweight world championship. He defended that strap against unbeaten contender Alfredo Santiago and former world champions Yuriorkis Gamboa, Jorge Linares and Joseph Diaz Jr. He became the undisputed king last June with a 12-round tour de force in Melbourne in front of more than 40,000 Kambosos supporters. 

“Lomachenko is a good fighter and future Hall of Fame candidate,” Haney said. “I take nothing away from him or what he has done in the sport of boxing. Although he didn’t give me a shot when I challenged him in 2019, I won’t be petty. This is the fight the fans really want, and I made it happen. I’ve gotten two times better since the Kambosos rematch, and believe it or not, the better my opponent is, the better I perform. I can’t wait for this fight. I know Lomachenko has an extremely high boxing IQ, and I will show the world on May 20 that I’m the best fighter on the planet. I’m ready to defend my undisputed title in devastating fashion.”

Lomachenko (17-2, 11 KOs) is a two-time Olympic gold medalist who compiled a staggering 396-1 record as an amateur before winning world titles at featherweight, junior lightweight and lightweight. As a lightweight, he knocked out Jorge Linares to capture the WBA and Ring Magazine titles, won the WBO strap against Jose Pedraza, and added the vacant WBC title to his collection with a 12-round decision over Luke Campbell in London. The 35-year-old lost his belts in a close fight against Teofimo Lopez in October 2020 but regained his form with one-sided drubbings over Masayoshi Nakatani and Richard Commey the following year. After a nearly 11-month layoff spent serving with a territorial defense battalion in his native Ukraine, Lomachenko held off unbeaten contender Jamaine Ortiz last October.

Lomachenko said, “My goal is to become the undisputed lightweight champion, and Devin Haney is the man with the belts. I respect his boxing IQ and am excited for this challenge.”




GYM BOXING SERIES MONTREAL CASINO BARRIERE VS. MARSHALL April 20, Montreal Casino Cabaret

MONTREAL (March 28, 2023) — Canadian Heavyweight Champion Alexis Barrière (9-0-0, 7KO) Returns to the ring on April 20 at the Cabaret du Casino de Montreal. His opponent, 34-year-old Mike Marshall (6-4-1, 4KO), of Danbury, Connecticut, is the reigning New England Heavyweight Champion.

Barrière returns to the ring just one month after a brilliant points victory on March 18 against Zamig Atakishiyev (8-1-1, 6KO), of Azerbaijan. Barrière, 27, a former member of Canada’s National Team, has been the most active boxer in the country for the past two years. Despite the COVID pandemic and the slowdown in activities, April 20th will be his 10th fight in his 25- month pro career.

This event is presented by Mise-O-Jeu in collaboration with Bell Media.

“I am extremely impressed by Alexis’ development and progress over the past 2 years,” said GYM President Yvon Michel. “We are happy with this collaboration with New Era for the promotion of Alexis’ fights and I thank Yan Pellerin and Peter George for their trust. Alexis Barrière is a skilled, young heavyweight with strong fundamentals and superior ring intelligence. He has everything it takes to become a very big popular star.”

A total of 6 fights will be presented. fresh off his most dazzling career win last month over Francy Ntetu (17-5-0, 4KOs). light heavyweight Terry Osias (11-0-0, 5KOs) will be showcased in the co-feature, The 36-year-old Osias, who will be fighting his 10th fight at the Casino de Montréal, had to put his career on hold for more than a year, drawing on his great determination and profound resources to overcome a serious illness. Now, totally recovered and more resolute than ever, he intends to make up for lost time.

Undefeated flyweight Alexas “Iron Lady” Kubicki (6-0-0, 0KO), 19 years old only and already world ranked IBF #4, WBO #10, and WBC #14, is in an eight-round Special Female Attraction. The gifted southpaw has had an impressive career to date. In her last 2 fights, she has already registered 10-round victories against former world champions Isabel Millan (29-9-2, 9KO) and Maria Salinas (25-9-6, 7KO), both hailing from Mexico.

Also in action is veteran Yan Pellerin (13-2-0, 5KO), who  once again trades his status as a promoter for that of a boxer. This ever-popular former NABO Light Heavyweight Champion will face 27–year-old Mexican Alexis Olmos (7-4-0, 3KOs) in a 6-round clash.

Also on the program are light heavyweight Petar Gavrilovic (5-0-0, 1KO) and the explosive Kevin Menoche (7-0-0, 5KO).

Tickets are on sale at www.ticketmaster.ca, on the www.groupeyvonmichel.ca website, or by contacting GYM directly at info@groupeyvonmichel.ca.

Without advertising interruptions, will be available in French and English on the www.GYMboxe.tv platform for the modest sum of $29.99.

Card subject to change.

#GroupeYM #BarriereMarshall #CabaretduCasino

-30-

ABOUT YVON MICHEL GROUP (GYM):  

Groupe Yvon Michel is a professional boxing promotion organization, founded in 2004 by Yvon Michel, Alexandra Croft and Bernard Barré, who are still active in the company, the most prolific in the history of professional boxing in Canada. Since its foundation, GYM has promoted 166 events in Quebec, all televised in Quebec on RDS, TVA Sports or Radio-Canada, as well as participated in 38 international events outside Quebec. Eight GYM boxers have become world champions: Joachim Alcine, Jean Pascal, Adonis Stevenson, Artur Beterbiev, Eleider Alvarez, Marie-Eve Dicaire (twice), Oscar Rivas and Kim Clavel. Nineteen boxers from the organization have delivered 54 world championship fights, maintaining an excellent record of 30 wins, 22 losses and 2 draws. During this period, major American television networks were more active than ever in coming to Quebec to broadcast the most important events of the organization.




QUOTES AS APPRENTICE WINNER OPENS GYM FOR HARLEM EUBANK WORKOUT 

Harlem Eubank was today put through his paces by a boxing businesswoman who has just gone toe-to-toe with Lord Alan Sugar – and won! 

Unbeaten super lightweight star Eubank was invited to Bronx LDN by founder, and this year’s The Apprentice winner, Marnie Swindells

Harlem staged his Media Day and Open Workout at the brand-new Camberwell gym in London, as he closes in on his fight with Christian Uruzquieta on Friday night at York Hall, live and free-to-air on Channel 5 from 10pm

Eubank headlines the latest Wasserman Boxing show, brought to you in association with LadbrokesNuman and Infinitum Entertainment, with heavyweight destroyer ‘Magic’ Matty Harris leading a brilliant undercard. 

Harris joined Eubank and German super welterweight puncher Abass Baraou at Bronx LDN, Swindell’s flagship gym and the first in a series she plans to open, after winning Lord Sugar’s £250,000 investment on the hit TV show. 

Marnie is packing a punch in the business world but was once a formidable fighter, twice winning gold at the prestigious amateur tournament, the Haringey Box Cup. 

And she lent her expertise to take Eubank on the pads to help the 16-0 stylist put the finishing touches to his preparations for Friday night’s crunch showdown with Uruzquieta. 

Harlem Eubank said: “Uruzquieta is coming to fight, coming to win and coming to try and upset the odds. But I am ready to show the people what I can do. 

“Those other fights that people are talking about, such as with Dalton Smith, there has definitely been talk of them and they are fights I definitely want. They are big fights and I think they can happen, I’m excited for them. 

“But Uruzquieta is a tough threat, and he is coming to derail those plans, but I am going to put on a performance on Friday night.” 

Marnie Swindells said: “Bronx LDN is a brand-new gym in South East London, and my whole mission is to get more people into boxing gyms and understanding that magic happens here and opening boxing up to the whole world. 

“If we don’t then there could be the next Anthony Joshua, Katie Taylor or Harlem Eubank on the streets, and we don’t know it. It is so important we push boxing and encourage participation in groups that might not think it’s for them. Boxing belongs to everyone. 

“And I will be there, at York Hall on Friday night, supporting Harlem and the other fighters who have come down to support me today.” 




JOSHUA VS. FRANKLIN FIGHT WEEK KICKS OFF AT BATTERSEA POWER STATION

Anthony Joshua and Jermaine Franklin came face to face for the first time since their launch press conference at the beginning of February this evening as they kicked off fight week at the ‘New Dawn’ launch party ahead of their huge Heavyweight clash at The O2 in London this Saturday April 1, shown live worldwide on DAZN.

The rivals began fight week media activities at the brand new art’otel overlooking the iconic Battersea Power Station on the south bank of the River Thames in Nine Elms, Battersea, in the London Borough of Wandsworth.

Former two-time unified Heavyweight Champion of the World Joshua (24-3, 22 KOs) fights at The O2 in London for the first time since 2016 as he begins life under the tutelage of new head trainer Derrick James. ‘AJ’ returns to the scene of his first World Title win over Charles Martin to face another American contender in Franklin (21-1, 14 KOs).

Saginaw’s ‘989 Assassin’ pushed Dillian Whyte all the way in a close points loss at Wembley’s OVO Arena last November and is relishing his shot against one of the biggest names in the sport. British megastar Joshua is ready to begin his ascent back to the top of the Heavyweight division after suffering back-to-back losses to pound-for-pound great Oleksandr Usyk in London and Saudi Arabia.

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman

“We’ve just done the promo shoots downstairs and Jermaine Franklin has a six pack. I don’t know where it has come from. He’s lost 24 pounds. He fought Dillian Whyte and had a nice little belly like most of us and all of a sudden he’s ripped to shreds. He’s talking the right language, he’s telling the guys down there that he’s going to knock ‘AJ’ the f**k out.

“I think you’re going to see a great fight on Saturday and it is a dangerous fight. There’s a huge amount of pressure on Anthony Joshua on Saturday night and he’s got to stick one of this geezer early and hurt him. This is a real fight. If ‘AJ’ lets him get confident in this fight it is going to be a very difficult fight.

“It’s going to be a completely full house at The O2 on Saturday, it’ll be absolutely rammed. It will be buzzing for ‘AJ’s’ ringwalk. We’re only five days away now. When he ringwalks, check out the energy in that arena, it is going to be electric.”

Anthony Joshua

“If Franklin possesses certain weaknesses I’ll be able to exploit them. It has been difficult over the past few fights to exploit people’s weaknesses because they’re very difficult to catch and pin down but hopefully I’ll be able to exploit Franklin’s weaknesses and show some of my old self. 

“At a certain level it’s hard to go into the ring and knock someone out within like ten seconds. There’s a process to getting that knockout and you have to be disciplined. I understand, there’s high expectations. People put their own expectations on other people. People put me in high regard – that’s where the pressure comes from, me having to deliver. I understand that and I’ll do my best for sure.

“We put a lot of pressure on ourselves, fighters. Hearing that final bell or hearing the ref count it out is such a high feeling that no amount of money can give you that feeling. It’s true. It’s a mad feeling. Each fight is a new chapter I’d say. Every chapter is so important.

“If Jermaine were to be successful on Saturday night I’d give him the respect he deserves. I’ll make the decision if I want to fight on or not. I feel like I can make that decision. If I want to continue fighting I don’t think it’s up to anyone to dictate to me. I don’t think anyone can tell me what to do in my career anyway.”

Jermaine Franklin

On Dillian Whyte defeat:

“I’m very strong mentally. My team and the fans made me feel okay about the decision. This is boxing, sometimes it happens in boxing. We don’t all get fair shakes. I’ve never really had a fair shake in my whole career. I didn’t cry about it, I didn’t complain about it, I just went back home and started working. You’ve got to knock them out or you’ve got to dominate them in conclusive fashion.”

On size difference:

“He’s only four inches taller than me. He’s 6’6″ and I’m 6’2″. I’ve been sparring big guys my whole career. This is nothing new to me.”

On Andy Ruiz Jr comparison:

“We’re two different fighters. Me and Andy are two different fighters. We don’t have the same style. Andy probably provides a little more pressure than I do, he fights a little more in spurts. I try to use my jab more and work inside/out.”

On being overlooked:

“I’ve always been overlooked. Personally in my opinion I’ve just got to go out there and show him that I’m not what they think I am. They call me a tune-up and they say I’m going to get knocked out in four or five rounds so I’m just coming here to kick ass and show the world this isn’t it.”

On people saying Joshua should retire if he loses to him:

“I find that disrespectful. People haven’t really seen me. I find it disrespectful that people think that low of me. They think I’m not a great fighter, they think I’m not a good fighter. I find it disrespectful but that is the kind of sport we’re in. We don’t get love like basketball, football and all the other sports. Boxing is more either you’re on top or you’re not.”

On how he feels about Joshua:

“I respect him as a man. I respect all fighters. When people talk shit we talk it back. I’m a fan of the sport. I’ve been a fan of the sport for a long time, way before I ever thought we’d get this fight. I feel like all boxers need a little bit of respect. It’s a tough sport, it’s a real brutal sport and some of us don’t make it out of that ring.”

Joshua vs. Franklin headlines a huge night of boxing in London, British Heavyweight Champion FabioWardley (15-0, 14 KOs) meets American Michael Polite-Coffie (13-3, 10 KOs) for the vacant WBA Continental title, taly’s European Middleweight ruler MatteoSignani (32-6-3, 12 KOs) defends his title against former British and Commonwealth Champion FelixCash (16-0, 10 KOs), undefeated Texas Middleweight Austin‘Ammo’ Williams (13-0 9 KOs) fights in the UK for the third time against Coventry’s River Wilson-Bent (14-2-1, 6 KOs), Campbell Hatton (10-0, 3 KOs) is back in action against Louis Fielding (10-7, 1 KO) after hitting double figures in Liverpool in March, Essex’s John Hedges (7-0 2 KOs) lands his first eight round clash against Poland’s Daniel Bocianski (11-2, 2 KOs), Jordan Flynn (8-0, 1 KO) faces the stiffest examination of his credentials when he meets Birmingham stalwart Kane Baker (18-9-1 1 KO) over eight rounds, Albanian Cruiserweight Juergen Uldedaj (15-0, 6 KOs) takes on Switzerland’s Benoit Huber (8-3, 6 KOs) over eight rounds, Ziya Almaayouf (2-0, 1 KO) faces Bulgaria’s Georgi Velichkov (3-10, 3 KOs) over four rounds and German Heavyweight Peter Kadiru (14-1, 7 KOs) opens the evening’s action against Macedonia’s Alen Lauriolle (6-1, 3 KOs) over six rounds.




AUDIO: Undefeated Junior Lightweight Julian Gonzalez Talks being in Las Vegas






VIDEO: Undefeated Junior Lightweight Julian Gonzalez Talks being in Las Vegas




Unbeaten cruiserweight prospect Adrian “Pretty Boy” Pinheiro Seeking redemption this Saturday

ORLANDO, Fla. (March 27 2023) – Unbeaten Polish cruiserweight Adrian “Pretty Boy” Pinheiro (10-0-1, 9 KOs) will be seeking redemption this Saturday night (April 1) on the “Night of Redemption” card at Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida.  

“Night of Redemption,” co-promoted by Orlando Boxing Promotions and Boxlab Promotions, will be streamed live on pay-per-view from Orlando on www.bxng.tv.

The 25-year-old Pinheiro (10-0-1, 9 KOs), fighting out of Orlando, is coming off his lone non-victory as a professional, when he fought Isaiah Thompson to a six-round split draw this past February 25.

“I wasn’t happy about the decision in my last fight,” Pinheiro said. “It was a close fight, a few rounds could have gone one way or the other, but I thought I had won. I understand.  That’s why you don’t leave it up to the judges. I took it as a lesson. I did learn a lot and I’ll keep learning and improving every fight.

“This fight seems like redemption for me. I’m excited to be headlining for the first time and in my first scheduled eight-round fight. A lot of people expected more from me in my last fight. I have another opportunity to show what I can do. I didn’t have much of an amateur career, so I’m learning on the go as a pro. Every day, every fight, I’m always trying to learn. In 2023, I want to showcase my talent to the boxing world. I hope this fight will lead to bigger fights for me with more exposure. I’d like to fight on the undercard of a big show by the end of the year. I have a good team with my promoter, Vito Mielnicki (GH3 Promotions), and my trainer, Tony Blanco.”

“I am very proud of the work Adrian has put into his craft to be in this position,” Blanco remarked. “Headlining his first show with only 11 pro fights says a lot about his work ethic. I am also proud to be part of his boxing journey and I look forward to what the future holds for him if he continues his path.”

Pinheiro, currently rated No. 13 by the NABA,  faces Demetrius Banks (12-12-2, 5 KOs), of Detroit, who is best known for ruining the 2014 professional debut of Antwaun Tubbs, the son of former world heavyweight champion Tony Tubbs, by registering a four-round technical knockout.

‘My opponent is a tough fighter who has upset a few people,” Pinheiro added. “He is more experienced than me, so I’m not taking him lightly. This fight is the next step for me.”

Undefeated 22-year-old Jeovanny “El Rayo” Estela, 10-0, 3 KOs) will face the toughest test of his young career in the six-round co-feature versus Saul “Navajo” Corral (23-20, 13 KOs), the former WBC FECARBOX welterweight champion from Mexico. Estela is a fan favorite in his hometown of Orlando, while Corral has been in tough during his career, including fights with world champions Sadam Ali and Victor Ortiz.

Miami-based Cuban fighter Idalberto Umara (9-1, 6 KOs) will make his first title defense of the WBA Fedecaribe lightweight belt against challenger Braulio “El Chavo” Rodriguez (23-20, 13 KOs) in a 10-round clash.

Umara captured the Fedecaribe championship in his last fight, February 25, 2023, at Caribe Royale in Orlando by way of a second-round technical knockout of Deivi Julio. Rodriguez is a former WBC Latino super featherweight champion.

Two other Cuban boxers are scheduled to be in action. Miami-based welterweight Damian Lascaille (3-0, 2 KOs) vs. TBA in a four-rounder, while Las Vegas heavyweight Henrich Ruiz Cordoba (1-0, 1 KO) is matched in a six-rounder against veteran Mexican fighter Jose “Olympico” Humberto Corral (20-32, 12 KOs), the older brother of Saul Corral.

Orlando cruiserweight Daine Smikle (1-0), a former member of the Jamaican National Boxing Team, is in a four-round match versus Tyler Jacques (0-5-1).

Also fighting in the undercard is four-round bouts are Orlando super welterweight Ramiro De Jesus (2-0, 1 KO) vs. pro-debuting Bryan Duran, of Miami; Orlando cruiserweight A’Mire “Devine” Lewis (4-0, 3 KOs) vs. Twon Smith (3-6, 2 KOs), Orlando lightweight and Puerto Rico native Jonathan Cortes (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Paul Amaro (0-1); Puerto Rican lightweight Carlos Rosario (5-1, 3 KOs) vs. Michael Gaxiola (4-36), Pennsylvania’s pro-debuting lightweight Shamara “Pure Perfection” Woods vs. Orlando’s Sarah “Switch Kick” Click (1-2-1, 0 KOs),  heavyweight Brandon Lynch (3-0, 3 KOs) vs. Dennys Reyes (3-4, 1 KO), pro-debuting Haitian featherweight Giovanni Louis vs. Waverly Bagby (1-11-1, 1 KO), and super middleweight Jamar Pemberton (3-0, 3 KOs), of Las Vegas, vs. Honduran Juan Celin Zapata (7-22-2, 2 5 KOs).

Card subject to change.

Tickets are priced at $100.00 (ringside), $75.00 reserved seating, $40.00 general admission and available to purchase at https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/22005E67806EB93E.

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

INFORMATION :  

www.cariberoyale.com

Twitter : @BoxLab

Instagram: @orlandoboxing, @orlandoboxingclub, @boxlab, @heavy_ap

About Caribe Royale Orlando Resort

Located just minutes from the Walt Disney World® Resort in the nation’s number one convention and tourist destination, Caribe Royale Orlando is the only AAA Four Diamond all-suite meetings resort in Orlando. A TripAdvisor 2022 Travelers’ Choice Award winner – among just 10 percent of hotels worldwide to receive the distinction – the upscale Caribe Royale is emerging from a $140 million renovation that includes fully remodeling all of its one-bedroom suites, an all-new 50,000-square-foot grand ballroom (bringing the total meeting space to 220,000 square feet), and an inviting new lobby. Being privately-owned, Caribe Royale offers meeting planners faster approval cycles and more flexibility to create stand-out events. To learn more or to book a visit, event or meeting, visit www.cariberoyale.com. Follow the all-suite convention hotel on FacebookInstagramTwitter (@cariberoyale), and LinkedIn. #cariberoyaleorlando




Demler Zamora III Delivers Striking KO to Remain Undefeated

LAS VEGAS, NV (March 27, 2023) – The boxing world was in awe on Saturday, March 25th as 19-year-old super featherweight, Demler “The War Machine” Zamora III (11-0. 9 KOs), added another victory to his undefeated record, defeating Jesus Abel Ibarra (15-1, 7 KOs) by third-round knockout. The scheduled eight-round bout took place as the final fight of the night on the Benavidez vs. Plant card at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

From the opening bell, it was clear that Zamora, a southpaw, meant business. He came out strong and aggressive, setting up his attack with an educated jab. At the end of the first round, Zamora caught Ibarra with a devastating straight left off the one-two combo, sending the undefeated fighter to the canvas. Although Ibarra managed to get back to his feet, it was clear that he was in trouble.

The second round saw Ibarra trying to regain his composure, but Zamora continued to apply pressure and landed several hard shots to the body and head. In the third round, Zamora again caught Ibarra with a sweeping left hook, off another one-two combination that sent him down for the second time. This time, Ibarra was unable to get back to his feet, and the referee called a halt to the fight early in round three.

Zamora’s victory was a testament to his skill, power, and determination. Despite his young age, he has shown that he has what it takes to compete at the highest level in the sport. With his impressive record and destructive knockout power, Zamora who spars elite talent in Vegas, is rapidly becoming a force to be reckoned with in the super featherweight division.

“I took this fight on two weeks’ notice because I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to fight on this card.” said Zamora, who was born and raised in Las Vegas. “In addition, I’m always in great shape and I believe in myself. Knocking out an undefeated fighter of this caliber, is a testament of my hard work and the team behind me. I feel with a few more fights, I’ll move from prospect to contender.”

But it wasn’t just the fans who were impressed with Zamora’s performance. Sitting ringside to watch the fight were boxing legends Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Gervonta “Tank” Davis. Mayweather, who has been known to spot rising stars early in their careers, has known Zamora since he was 8-years-old, when he started training at the Mayweather Boxing Club with his uncle Roger Mayweather.

“Seeing Floyd and Tank sitting ringside for my fight was a great feeling.” Zamora concluded. “I had step up my game, turn up and show out. My confidence has skyrocketed, and I know I can hang with the best of them.”

Overall, DJ “The War Machine” Zamora’s victory over Jesus Abel Ibarra was a highlight of the Benavidez vs. Plant undercard. His impressive display of power and skill caught the attention of not only the fans but also some of the biggest names in the sport. With his unblemished record and growing reputation, Zamora is sure to be a fighter to watch in the coming years.




Boxing Returns April 7th to Emerald Queen Casino 

LOS ANGELES (March 27, 2023) — Professional boxing makes its long-awaited return to the Northwest gem known as the Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington, on Friday, April 7, when Toro Promotions Inc. in association with Whitfield Haydon, presents a seven-bout card at the state-of-the-art EQC Event Center, starting at 8 p.m. PT.

At stake in the main event will be a terrific match-up for the WBA Fedebol Featherweight Championship as Mexican upset specialist and all-out action fighter Angel Antonio “Cachorro” Contreras (15-5-2, 7KOs) takes on the equally capable Colombian Brandon Valdes (14-3, 7KO) in what figures to be a rough ten-round affair. If that’s not enough there’s the return of the boxing meteor Neeco “The Rooster” Macias, who will make his triumphant return to the ring after a four-year absence.

This will be the first bout held at the long-standing fight venue since January. 2020, which held well over 100 pro boxing cards known as the “Battle of the Boat” series during the last three decades, overseen by legendary Northwest boxing promoter Brian Halquist. However, this will be the first to be held within the confines of the new Event Center on the casino premises, which offers great sight-lines and the feeling of being up-close to the action in a modern setting.

One thing that won’t change, however, are the great fights that “The Queen” and its great fans have seen over the years. Whitfield Haydon was a part of that in 2000’s and 2010’s as matchmaker for Halquist’s Battle of the Boat series and he looks forward to giving Northwest boxing fans what they expect and are used to, great and evenly-matched fights.

“Northwest boxing fans are the very best this country has to offer, and I have seen them all,” Haydon said. “They appreciate the fighters and aren’t like some regions where fans feel like a ticket to the fights is an opportunity to take out life’s frustrations on the fighters who go in there and risk everything. The Seahawks and Mariners are lucky to have fans like this. Anybody ever placed on a professional fight card at The Queen begs for an opportunity to return, and many call fondly remembering their fights there 10, 15, 20 years ago. Not everybody goes on to win a world title – this here is the super bowl for many, many fighters.”

An opportunity is exactly what the main event will be for the careers of both combatants. Contreras and Valdes have both enjoyed success on the “B-side”, but both lament various close losses while in that role versus brutally tough opposition. For example, prior to his last fight, Contreras held up well against this elite opposition posting a respectable 3-3-1 record against opponents whose combined record was 96-4-1. Among these was a decisive win at T-Mobile Arena in August of 2021 versus undefeated Filipino John Dato, then 14-0-1, in a wild affair on the undercard of Manny Pacquiao versus Yordenas Ugas.

“I want to thank Toro Promotions Inc. for this great opportunity,” Contreras added. “I’m coming full force to bring the victory and WBA Fedebol belt back with me to Mexico. The fans can expect nothing less than the very best ‘Cachorro’ Contreras.”

In Valdes, a one-time prospect who came to the U.S. with great hopes, has had his share of ups and downs. Tough narrow defeats mixed in with victories against stellar opposition, namely a sixth-round knockout loss to 2016 Olympic Gold medalist Robeisey Ramirez in December of 2020 at MGM Grand in Las Vegas, where one judge actually had Valdes leading on the scorecards in the tight affair at the time of the stoppage. Regardless, Valdes brings in a very good record of 14-3 and he will be ready for battle on the 7th.

“I’m excited and more than ready to take on the challenge,” Valdes noted. “All my wins and losses have prepared me for this moment, and I plan on seizing the opportunity.” 

“This fight is happening for a reason” Haydon remarked. “They have earned the right to compete in a main event and potentially win a WBA regional belt. Our impetus for putting this fight on is very simple: to give fans an opportunity to see a great fight on April 7 at The Queen.”

The remainder of the card will feature both regional and local talent in competitive bouts, highlighted by combined records of all combatants on April 7 being just shy of an 80-percent win ratio. Leading this charge will be boxing cult hero Macias (17-2, 10 KO)of Tehachapi, CA, in an eight-round scrap in the super welterweight division versus tough Ramon Ayala (25-7-1, 13 KO),  of Mexico City. Macias may be best known for his ten-round split decision loss on ESPN in November of 2018, in which Compubox records were completely shattered. Additionally, his trademark “Rooster” crow has been greatly missed on the boxing circuit.

Heavyweight hope Dante Stone(11-1, 9 KO), of Phoenix, will face rugged, undefeated Mississippian Detrailous Webster (5-0, 2 KO) in a six-round slugfest.

Standout super welterweight Jon Bryant (6-0, 2 KO), a local favorite from Bremerton, Washington, will put his undefeated record on the line against the very capable Timothy Parks (5-3-1, 4 KO), of San Diego. Parks has shared the ring with what figures to be a future boxing superstar in Travon Marshall.

Rounding out the card will be a trio of four-round bouts featuring pro debuting Josue Cadena from nearby Auburn, as he takes on Browning, Montana’s Jayden Salway (0-1-1) in a super lightweight clash. Cadena is trained by Emerald Queen Boxing alum Francisco “Paco” Reyes, whose brief but very exciting career concluded with a ten-round decision loss in March of 2011 to eventual IBF Featherweight World Champion Evgeny Gradovich in front of a standing room only, sold-out crowd in the main event. Interestingly, Reyes defeated Brandon Valdes’ trainer Cesar Garcia in an all-out war in 2009 at this same location.

Heavyweight Bryan Hall, of Fresno, CA, will see his first action in the pro ranks versus combat fight veteran Joshua Tuani, of Seattle (2-3, 1 KO), and Margarito Hernandez (3-5-1), of Wapato, WA, will aim to get back into the win column against a tough Michael Portales (2-1-1, 1 KO), of Hayward, CA, in a four-round super lightweight fight.

Toro Promotions Inc. is proudly presented by Azat Torosyan, who is greatly looking forward to Toro Promotions’ inaugural show at Emerald Queen Casino, saying: “I want to thank Emerald Queen, the Puyallup Tribe of Indians, and all those involved to help us make this a very memorable night.”

Card subject to change.

Tickets for the event are priced at $100.00, $60.00, and $40.00, and may be purchased by calling (253) 594-7777 or at www.Emeraldqueen.com.




GOLDEN BOY SIGNS LIGHTWEIGHT PROSPECT JOHNNY “SUGARCANE” CAÑAS OF SANTA ANA, CALIF.

LOS ANGELES, CA (March 27, 2023): Golden Boy Promotions announced today the signing of 20-year-old lightweight prospect Johnny “Sugarcane” Cañas to its promotional banner.

“I want to thank Oscar De La Hoya, Eric Gomez and the entire Golden Boy Team for this opportunity to begin my professional boxing career under their promotion,” said Johnny Cañas. “I also want to thank my TKO Boxing team, Hector Lopez, Abraham Perez, and everyone who has shaped my career up until this point. The hard work ethic and discipline will only increase from this point forward.”

“Johnny Cañas has all the qualities of a future world champion. He’s been in the gym with world class fighters, battle tested veterans and trainers. Golden Boy is confident that he will make waves in the sport,” said Chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya. “We’re excited to welcome Johnny to the Golden Boy Family and for him to begin what we expect to be a flourishing career with us.”

Representing Santa Ana, California, Johnny was dubbed as “Sugarcane” due to his tall height that matched his last name when translated into English. Despite a short amateur career, he participated in the U.S. National Team having only 8 total amateur fights.

Since 2018 Cañas has been trained by Hector Lopez at TKO Boxing Gym in Santa Ana. Cañas has had the opportunity to sharpen up his skills and learn from professionals all throughout Southern California including Alexis Rocha, Ronny Rios, Luis Nery, Raymond Murattala, and many other great fighters.

Cañas will be making his professional debut soon.

Johnny Cañas Instagram: @sugarcaneboxing

 




360 PROMOTIONS SIGNS EXPLOSIVE KNOCKOUT ARTIST CAIN SANDOVAL- FEATURED ON APRIL 14 HOLLYWOOD FIGHT NIGHTS EVENT AT THE COMMERCE CASINO

Los Angeles, CA (March 27, 2023) Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions’ has announced the signing of 20-year-old knockout artist Cain Sandoval, (8-0, 8 KOs), of Sacramento, CA to an exclusive, multi-fight promotional contract.

Sandoval battles hard-hitting Jose Angulo, (14-5, 7 KOs), of Guayaquil, Ecuador in a scheduled six-round lightweight battle on Friday, April 14 at the Commerce Casino, the next Hollywood Fight Nights event broadcast live internationally on UFC FIGHT PASS (Subscribe Here / 50% Discount Using ‘March’ Password Until 3/3123.

“We’re very excited to announce the signing of Cain Sandoval,” said Tom Loeffler. “Since turning professional in August 2021 he has been among the most talked about young fighters in California. He’s clearly got the power and knockouts boxing fans love, now our job is to provide him with the right opportunities and further exposure at our live events and on UFC FIGHT PASS.”

Said Sandoval, “Tom Loeffler’s track record speaks for itself. He’s been one of the very best boxing promoters for over 20 years and I feel very comfortable joining his team and very excited to have my fights broadcast on UFC FIGHT PASS. I can’t wait for April 14.”

Five of Cain Sandoval’s show-stopping knockouts have come in the first round. Most recently he knocked out Pedro Angel Cruz in the third round on February 18, 2023 in Daly City, CA. Among the notable undefeated fighters Jose Angulo has battled include Ernesto Mercado, Jousce Gonzalez and Alejandro Guerrero.  

The April 14 event is headlined by a can’t miss cross-town rivalry featherweight showdown between popular, hard-hitting Omar Cande Trinidad, (11-0-1, 9 KOs), of Los Angeles, CA and Downey, CA native Adan Ochoa, (12-2, 5 KOs), scheduled for eight rounds.

Remaining tickets for April 14 priced at $200, $150, $100, $80 and $60 can be purchased online at www.360Promotions.us.The Commerce Casino is located at 6131 Telegraph Road, Commerce, CA 90040. Doors will open on the night of the event at 6:00 p.m. For more information and directions please visit www.CommerceCasino.com

Attached Photo / 360 Promotions

Social Media

#HollywoodFightNights

#UFCFightPass

Instagram

@ufcfightpass

@360BoxingPromotions

@TomLoeffler1

@howlerheadehiskey

Twitter

@UFCFightPass

@360BoxingPromos

@TomLoeffler1

 @howlerhead

Facebook

@UFCFightPass

@360BoxingPromos

@howlerheadwhiskey

Website

www.360Promotions.us




FULL CARD ANNOUNCED FOR JORGE MASVIDAL’S GAMEBRED BOXING 4 PPV EVENT HEADLINED BY SHOWDOWN BETWEEN COMBAT SPORT LEGENDS ROY JONES JR. & ANTHONY PETTIS

MILWAUKEE – March 27, 2023 – The full card has been announced for the Saturday, April 1, “Gamebred Boxing 4” pay-per-view event (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, presented by Jorge Masvidal’s Gamebred Boxing.

In the main event, Boxing Hall of Famer Roy Jones Jr. and former UFC and WEC World Champion Anthony Pettis of Milwaukee will go toe-to-toe in an intriguing six-round heavyweight clash between two of combat sports’ most skilled, accomplished and popular champions.

A colorful array of boxing and MMA’s best highlight the exciting undercard, including former UFC and Cage Rage World Light Heavyweight Champion Vitor “The Phenom” Belfort (1-0, 1 KO) making his second official pro boxing appearance in a six-round heavyweight battle against debuting fellow Brazilian and former Strikeforce middleweight champion Ronaldo “Jacare” Souza.

The grappler Souza holds an MMA victory over Belfort, but the quick-fisted southpaw Belfort is much more established in the ring, having defeated the great Evander Holyfield by TKO in a September 2021 exhibition bout, in addition to his official first-round boxing KO over Josemario Neves in 2006.

In another MMA crossover bout, all-time great UFC Featherweight Champion Jose Aldo of Brazil will compete in a second-sport rematch against former MMA foe and top UFC contender Jeremy Stephens. The pair first met five years ago in an entertaining struggle won by Aldo that garnered him “Performance of the Night.” The two MMA vets will meet this time in a six-round welterweight affair.

Also on the main card, Milwaukee’s own undefeated former NABF Champion and rising contender Luis Feliciano (16-0, 8 KOs) will take on durable veteran Clarence Booth (21-7, 13 KOs) of Florida in an eight-round super lightweight bout, while Florida’s undefeated Devin Cushing (12-0, 9 KOs) will face Argentine veteran Damian David Marchiano (18-11-1, 7 KOs) in a six-round super featherweight tussle.

Former UFC contender Pearl Gonzalez will take on fellow mixed martial artist turned social media star Gina Mazany in a six-round featherweight showdown. Brooklyn’s Gonzalez is already 2-0 with one KO as a boxer. Originally from Alaska, Mazany will be making her boxing debut.

Kicking off the pay-per-view telecast will be a six-round heavyweight battle between 11-1 MMA/3-1 Bareknuckle fighter Dillon “Bad Boy” Cleckler and Bellator MMA and fellow bareknuckle competitor Josh “The Hammer” Burns.

“If you’re on the fence about buying this PPV, we don’t blame you. You more than likely don’t have a clue how these fights will play out, and to tell you the truth, neither do we,” said Jorge Masvidal, CEO of Gamebred Boxing. “We have no idea if wisdom beats youth in the Roy Jones vs Anthony Pettis fight, we have no idea who wins between one of the greatest strikers in MMA history, Vitor Belfort, against the former BJJ World Champion, Jacare Souza. We can all sit and make assumptions about what we think will happen between Jose Aldo and Jeremy Stephens, but you know what they say about assumptions. If there’s one thing we can promise and deliver on is that there will be sheer violence and sweet science. Bottom line, you’re just gonna have to tune in April 1st to find out.”

“I can’t think of a time we’ve seen five former World Champion from two different sports on 1 fight card,” said Dean Toole, President of Gamebred Boxing. “The best thing about this entire event is the eyeballs on the young incredible talent coming up. Undefeated prospects like Luis Feliciano, Devin Cushing and Javier Zamarron will really showcase our mission statement here at Gamebred Boxing and that’s to build new stars and promote upcoming talent. We want to build our own roster and have those fighters eventually headlining these big events. On Saturday night they’ll get an opportunity to steal the show.”

The pay-per-view can be purchased through InDEMAND, PPV.com and UFC Fight Pass PPV, with tickets to the live event available through FiservForum.com and Ticketmaster.com.  Additional event details will be announced shortly.

Several preliminary bouts are also on tap, headed up by former UFC and BKFC fighter Joe Riggs taking on fellow UFC alum Markus Perez in a six-round cruiserweight bout. Riggs replaces UFC vet Paul Daley who was forced to withdraw.

Also scheduled is a double pro debut between female fighters, as Vegas via Vietnam’s Bi Nguyen will face Myrtle Beach via Vietnam’s Andy Nguyen in a four-round bantamweight contest. This will be the rubber match between the two MMA competitors turned boxers with each previously claiming a victory over the other.

Rounding out the preliminary action will be a female four-round lightweight bout, as MMA fighters Danielle Wynn and Danielle Cohen will meet, with Cohen making her pro debut, while Wynn is 0-1 in boxing. Wisconsin southpaw Javier “El Guerito” Zamarron (2-0, 2 KOs) will take on debuting South Carolinian, MMA competitor Roberto Armas in a four-round super featherweight matchup.

Lastly, Florida’s Cade Howell (3-1, 3 KOs) will appear in a four-round welterweight bout vs. an opponent that is TBA.

#         #         #

ABOUT GAMEBRED BOXING 4: JONES JR. VS. PETTIS

Gamebred Boxing 4 will be headlined by combat sports legends Roy Jones Jr. and Anthony Pettis going toe-to-toe in a boxing showdown on Saturday, April 1 headlining the “Gamebred Boxing 4” pay-per-view event from Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee in an event presented by Jorge Masvidal’s Gamebred Boxing.

For more information on Gamebred Boxing visit www.gamebredboxing.com, and follow on Twitter @Gamebredboxing, on Instagram @GamebredBoxingPromotions and on their YouTube Channel.




THE REMATCH NICKY “THE BULL” VITONE VS. JORDAN ROSARIO SATURDAY NIGHT APRIL 1 BERGEN COUNTY FIGHT NIGHT 3 AT THE TERRACE AND BIAGIO IN PARAMUS, NJ 

PARAMUS, NJ — Scott Abella, promoter of Abella Boxing, has rejuvenated and shifted fight shows back to where they’re supposed to be in his home state of New Jersey. This Saturday night April 1, Abella Boxing Promotions will deliver their third show in the span of 12 months – Bergen County Fight Night 3 at The Terrace and Biago in Paramus, New Jersey – PPV Available on Bergen Audio Visual – $24.99

The historic event will include a six-fight card: three six-round bouts and three four-rounders. Headlining the main event, a six-round super lightweight bout, ‘The Rematch,’ between Nicky “The Bull” Vitone (9-1-1, 7 KO) and Jordan Rosario (4-10-0).

In July of 2021 at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ, Rosario defeated Vitone by a split decision in a four-round welterweight bout, marking the 26-year-old’s first career loss. Everyday since, the Italian out of Pine Brook, New Jersey, better known as “The Bull,” looks back on that night, being his hardest critic.

“I wouldn’t be the boxer I am today without Jordan and that fight,” Vitone said. “Ever since that loss, I’ve grown tremendously, and that fight definitely brought me down to Earth. It was very tough with mental fortitude, but honestly I wouldn’t want it any other way.”

“All respect towards Jordan, but it’s just business at the end of the day. I just feel like I’m going back to take what’s mine from the beginning. Everything happens for a reason. Everyday, that fight is in the back of my head, so I’m excited to be in New Jersey again in front of my friends and family. It’s gonna be one of the best fights of the night, I can guarantee you that.”

Since suffering his first loss, “The Bull,” has gone on a full head of steam, recording five consecutive victories with two coming via knockout, and plans to keep the pace going on Saturday night April 1.

“I’m a different fighter since that last fight,” Vitone said. “I’m excited for it. I’m ready for it on April 1st.”

Despite all the hype and lead up to “The Rematch” in Bergen County Fight Night 3, Vitone’s not letting the noise get to him. He went into depth on what’s fortified him into where he’s at today: his Italian heritage from his father, Frank Vitone, who was born in Bari, Italy, and immigrated to the United States at a young age.

“I really look at my father as the American Dream,” Vitone revealed. “He came here with no money, didn’t speak English, and had to teach himself the language. He grew up in Jersey City, worked his butt off to get to where he’s at and provided an amazing life for me, my two sisters and my mother, so I’m blessed”

“I definitely try to represent the Italian-American people everyday in that ring,” he explained. “I feel like the sport definitely needs someone like me. I really do fight for the people, and I really do look at myself as the people’s champ. I leave everything in that ring everyday.”

Remaining Six-Round Bouts
Raymond “The Scientist” Cuadrado, (5-0-0, 20 KO%), of Ridgewood, Queens, NY, will put his undefeated record up on the line against Usiel Hernandez (2-1-0) in a junior lightweight bout.

Mike “The Champ” Lee (9-2-0, 63.6 KO%) of Jersey City, New Jersey, takes on Antonio Sanchez (7-16-3) in a welterweight bout.

Four-Round Bouts
Christian “Veneno” Otero (4-3-0, 28.5 KO%) of Harlem, NY will go toe-to-toe with southpaw Vinnie Denierio (3-7-0) in a lightweight bout.

Dane Guerrero, of Ridgefield Park, New Jersey, is set to make his pro-debut against Andre Hinmon (0-2-0) in a super middleweight bout.

Kevin Hernandez (0-0-1), of Bergenfield, New Jersey will go up against George Gethers (0-3-0) in a welterweight bout.

PPV Available for $24.99 on Bergen Audio Visual
The broadcast team includes ABC 7 Sports and Eyewitness News anchor Anthony Johnson, senior boxing columnist Rich Mancuso and pro-fighter John “Bodyshot” Leonardo (9-1-1, 4 KO), of Manalapan, New Jersey, with special guest appearances to be determined.

Bergen County Fight Night 3, presented by Abella Boxing Promotions is sponsored by NY METRO PROMOTION & PRINTING, TEAM PARAMUS COLLISION, PARAMUS 186 PBA, SKULL FUEL ENERGY DRINK, WIRED PRODUCTS, MYPAL BY PALADINO ENTERPRISES – NEW JERSEY’S PREMIER, HOME SERVICE APP, TURN KEY DATA, TIRE WHEEL PERFORMANCE CENTER, CIBAO MEAT PRODUCTS “TRADICIÓN DE CALIDAD”

# #

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION – BERGEN COUNTY FIGHT NIGHT 3
WHEN: Saturday Night April 1st, 2023
WHERE: The Terrace at Biagio Ristorante located on 293 Paramus Road, Paramus, NJ 07652
BOUTS: 3 Six-Round Bouts, 3 Four-Round Bouts (SUBJECT TO CHANGE)
TICKETS: EVENT IS SOLD OUT
PPV/STREAMING: Bergen Audio Visual – $24.99

Follow on Instagram: @abellaboxing
Facebook: www.Facebook.com/AbellaBoxingPromotions

For any further questions, or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Thank you from Abella Boxing Promotions.

 




FRANKLIN: I WANT TO KNOCK HIS ASS OUT, THAT’S THE GOAL!

Jermaine Franklin has warned Anthony Joshua that he is in for a “rude awakening” when they clash in a scheduled 12-round Heavyweight contest at The O2 in London this Saturday April 1, shown live worldwide on DAZN.
 
Former two-time Heavyweight Champion Joshua makes his highly anticipated return to the ring on UK soil following his second loss to pound-for-pound star and unified World Champion Oleksandr Usyk in Saudi Arabia, but Franklin insists that he isn’t here just to make up the numbers.
 
Saginaw’s ‘989 Assassin’ pushed Dillian Whyte all the way in a close points loss at Wembley’s OVO Arena last November and is relishing his shot against one of the biggest names in the sport, and a famous win against ‘AJ’ would guarantee Franklin further opportunities in the glamour division.
 
“For him, they say his career is on the line. For me, everything is on the line,” said Franklin. “That’s how I treat every fight. I’ve been boxing all my life and I’m not nervous for this. If you get nervous, you’re in the wrong sport.
 
“They’re probably looking at me like I’m a pushover or a walkover or something like that but they’re going to be in for a rude awakening. A goal of mine is I want to be a unified World Champion. I just want to help boxers. I love the sport and I want to continue to help other fighters grow. I want to give back to the sport what it gave to me.
 
“The circumstances around this fight are very different. For the Dillian fight I was working a job before we got that phone call. I wasn’t in the gym. We took like 5-7 weeks to get in shape for that fight. For the time I had I did what I could. This time I’ve got more time to prepare and more time to get in shape. We’re doing all we can.
 
“I showed people what I could do against Dillian. I showed people I can hang up there with some of the best. Dillian is a top 10/top 15 fighter and I showed people what I’m capable of. I don’t feel like I lost. We came home and we worked on stuff. We got better and we perfected our craft. We learned some different techniques and ways to attack.”

The once-beaten Franklin (21-1, 14 KOs) believes he did more than enough to secure the victory over Whyte – and some observers felt the same way. The 29-year-old contender expects to face the very best version of Joshua and feels the British star is far from finished. 
 
“My performance against Dillian most definitely led to this fight. He could have picked anybody that he wanted to but he chose me. Maybe he’s trying to prove to himself that he can do something to me that Dillian couldn’t. Who knows. We don’t play boxing. I’ve come here to wake him and the rest of the world up.
 
 “I feel like I’m winning hands down at the end of the fight. As far as him with the trainers and stuff, I can’t pinpoint on what kind of style he’s going to try to use. We just do our job and prepare for whatever style. Get ready to see a new and improved Jermaine Franklin.

“Fans are going to see me come out and fight way better fight than the Dillian fight. It is time for people to take me seriously. This is my new dawn. It’s my time to make my claim. I want to knock his ass out, that’s the goal.”
 
Joshua vs. Franklin headlines a huge night of boxing in London, British Heavyweight Champion Fabio Wardley (15-0, 14 KOs) meets American Michael Polite-Coffie (13-3, 10 KOs) for the vacant WBA Continental title, taly’s European Middleweight ruler Matteo Signani (32-6-3, 12 KOs) defends his title against former British and Commonwealth Champion Felix Cash (16-0, 10 KOs), undefeated Texas Middleweight Austin ‘Ammo’ Williams (13-0 9 KOs) fights in the UK for the third time against Coventry’s River Wilson-Bent (14-2-1, 6 KOs), Campbell Hatton (10-0, 3 KOs) is back in action against Louis Fielding (10-7, 1 KO) after hitting double figures in Liverpool in March, Essex’s John Hedges (7-0 2 KOs) lands his first eight round clash against Poland’s Daniel Bocianski (11-2, 2 KOs), Jordan Flynn (8-0, 1 KO) faces the stiffest examination of his credentials when he meets Birmingham stalwart Kane Baker (18-9-1 1 KO) over eight rounds, Albanian Cruiserweight Juergen Uldedaj (15-0, 6 KOs) takes on Switzerland’s Benoit Huber (8-3, 6 KOs) over eight rounds, Ziya Almaayouf (2-0, 1 KO) faces Bulgaria’s Georgi Velichkov (3-10, 3 KOs) over four rounds and German Heavyweight Peter Kadiru (14-1, 7 KOs) opens the evening’s action against Macedonia’s Alen Lauriolle (6-1, 3 KOs) over six rounds.




FULL UNDERCARD CONFIRMED FOR HARLEM EUBANK’S RETURN

Harlem Eubank will use his headlining slot on Wasserman Boxing’s second action-packed show in a week to make a statement about his title intentions for the year. 

Live and free-to-air on Channel 5 from 10pm on Friday, the unbeaten Eubank returns to York Hall to take on Mexican hardman Christian Uruzquieta over 10 rounds and aims to set up a shot at the British title next. 

Wasserman Boxing, in association with Ladbrokes, Numan and Infinitum Entertainment, have put together a card that is, pound-for-pound, as talent-crammed as any you will see anywhere, and it comes straight off the back of their sold-out show in Bolton last week, with 1.5m people tuning in to watch on Channel 5.

Super lightweight star Eubank tops this week’s event that also sees the return of the destructive Matty Harris, one Britain’s most fearsome heavyweight prospects, who has blasted his way through his last three opponents in the first round. 

Harris expects to add to his highlight reel of knockouts, when trading punches with Milos Veletic, in a fight that nobody thinks will go the six-round distance. 

There also a tasty looking title tussle between Harry Scarff and Jordan Dujon on Friday’s show. 

It’s Derby vs Barnet as Scarff and Dujon battle for the WBO European super welterweight belt. 

Germany’s world-rated super welterweight Abass Baraou fights for a second time in the UK, at York Hall on Friday night, in an eight-round dust-up with Ferenc Katona

You don’t want to miss the British debut of Baraou’s compatriot, Sophie Alisch, the fearsome featherweight, who is being primed for world honours. 

Alisch takes on the seasoned Bec Connolly, who has tested a string of emerging fighters in recent years including Skye Nicolson and Ebanie Bridges, and so Germany’s Sophie will aim to lay down a marker as she looks to take her career to the next level. 

Make sure to keep an eye on Finchley’s Jesse Brandon, a protégé of Anthony Joshua, and a super lightweight with a massive future. 

Brandon made his debut at York Hall in November and returns to the spiritual home of British boxing this week to tackle Spain’s Borja Lopez over four rounds. 

There’s a buzz around the professional journey of Codie Smith, which starts this week with Wasserman Boxing. 

Smith boxed for England and Great Britain on the international amateur stage, but now turns his attention to the pro ranks and a four round featherweight fight with Luca Genovese on Friday night.

There is also a pro debut for Jurrell Patterson and a heavyweight outing for Peter Belberov. 

Eubank vs Uruzquieta, live and free-to-air on Channel 5, from 10pm on Friday 

MEDIA REMINDER 

Tuesday March 28 – MEDIA DAY AND OPEN WORKOUT 

Location: Bronx LDN, Vicarage Grove, Camberwell, London, SE5 7LP 

Time: 12:30pm arrival for a 1pm start 

Participants:  

  • Harlem Eubank 
  • Christian Uruzquieta 
  • Marnie Swindells 
  • Matty Harris 
  • Abass Baraou 
  • Kalle Sauerland 
  • Adam Booth 

The weigh-in for Eubank vs Uruzquieta takes place on Friday, March 30 at 1pm, with the location to be confirmed. 




Clampitt dominates Cardoso to earn her 24th career victory in main event of CES Boxing’s Rhode Wars 3 card at historic Park Theatre in Rhode Island

Cranston, RI – Father Time catches up to everyone, but he’s still chasing Jaime “Hurricane” Clampitt.

The 46-year-old Clampitt won her 24th professional bout Saturday in the main event of CES Boxing’s Rhode Wars 3 card at the Historic Park Theatre & Event Center, out-classing Miami’s Taynna Cardoso for a 79-73 unanimous decision win on all three scorecards. The show was CES’ first at the Park Theatre, built in 1924 and recently renovated under new ownership.

Clampitt christened the venue Saturday with a vintage performance fitting for a classic theater setting. A four-time world champion and International Women’s Boxing Hall of Fame inductee, Clampitt initially launched her comeback in 2021 after eight years out of the ring. A win over Kim Wabik in February of 2022 shook off some of the ring rust, but a loss to 21-year-old Miranda Reyes in June planted some seeds of doubt as the Warwick, RI, resident carefully began plotting her next steps.

With a more focused approach in camp, including hiring a physical therapist and sports psychologist, Clampitt looked better than ever Saturday, boxing circles around Cardoso (5-3), who had just gone eight hard rounds in a much closer majority decision loss to Heather Hardy in February.

On Saturday, Clampitt was a step ahead, looking much faster, sharper, and more reactive than she did in June and shows no signs of slowing down as she approaches her 47th birthday in July. Where this win takes her next remains to be seen, but it’s clear Clampitt is far from done as she continues to find her place in this new era of women’s boxing – a path she and many others paved for the current torch-bearers.

On a night that featured six fights – and the debut of CES’ first female ring announcer, Margaret Cresta – Alejandro Paulino (12-0, 10 KOs) and Anthony Velasquez (12-0, 11 KOs) provided ample firepower.

Paulino, the fast-rising unbeaten super featherweight from New London, CT, demolished St. Louis’ Derrick Murray (17-8-1) via technical knockout in the opening round. A flurry of shots early in the round put Murray in defense mode before Paulino snuck in a short left hook that caught Murray directly on the chin and sent him crashing to the canvas. Murray made it to his feet, but stumbled into the ropes trying to take a step forward, prompting referee Johnny Callas to wave it off.

Velasquez, the hard-hitting Springfield, MA, super welterweight, also made quick work of his opponent, blasting the durable Rodrigo Lopes Rodrigues (8-5) of Brazil in the opening round with a barrage of punches that forced referee Joey Lupino to step in and quickly stop the fight.

The newest addition to the CES family, Velasquez is on the fast track to success and will return to the ring at CES’ next event April 22 at Mohegan Sun Arena. He and Paulino, 26 and 24 years of age, respectively, continue to dominate the regional circuit and now boast 24 wins with 21 combined knockouts.

Fan-favorite Gary Balletto III, who grew up just miles from the Park Theatre in Cranston, also put on a show in his unanimous decision win over Raphael Torres of Marlborough, MA. Both fighters entered unbeaten and fought at cruiserweight with Balletto simply out-working Torres over six hard rounds to earn a 60-54, 60-54, 59-55 victory. The two-sport star who also competes as a welterweight in mixed martial arts is now 4-0 in boxing, following in the footsteps of his father, Gary “Tiger” Balletto.

Johnston, RI, middleweight James Maner (3-0) scored an early knockdown en route to a 40-35 unanimous decision win on all three scorecards over debut Everet Desilets (0-1) over Pawtucket, RI; and welterweight Jeffrey Gonzalez (2-0) of East Haven, CT, won a spirited 39-37, 37-39, 39-37 split decision over Jesus Salas (1-2) of New Bedford, MA.

For more information, follow CES Boxing on FacebookInstagram and Twitter at @CESBOXING.

INFORMATION

CES Boxing is one of the top promotions in the northeast and one of the few to successfully promote both mixed martial arts and professional boxing. Launched in 1992 by longtime boxing judge Jimmy Burchfield Sr., the promotion is the only in professional boxing to boast two reigning WBC Youth world champions in lightweight Jamaine Ortiz and featherweight Irvin Gonzalez. CES Boxing recently teamed with UFC FIGHT PASS, the world’s No. 1 streaming platform for combat sports, to showcase its events to a worldwide audience, and worked as a promotional consultant for the Mike Tyson-Roy Jones Jr. pay-per-view event in November of 2020.

Celebrating its 99th anniversary, the Historic Park Theatre & Event Center is a 1,015-seat performance art theatre that originally opened in 1924 and reopened in October of 2022 under new ownership with major renovations that include the newly-launched Park Place Café, Comedy Park, and Rolfe Supper Club on the second floor. Owned by restaurateurs Ed Brady and Jeff Quinlan, the historic Park, located across the street from Cranston City Hall at 848 Park Ave., is capable of hosting an array of events and will expand later this year to include tributes to Queen, Bruce Springsteen, and Michael Jackson. The Park Theatre will be a space for the Rhode Island community to come together and bring history back to life.





DONALD “COWBOY” CERRONE NAMED TO UFC® HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2023

Las Vegas – UFC® today announced that former WEC® and UFC lightweight Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone will be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame’s ‘Modern Wing’ as a member of the Class of 2023. The 2023 UFC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, presented by Toyo Tires®, will take place on Thursday, July 6, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The event will be streamed live an exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®.

“Cowboy Cerrone is one of the best lightweights in UFC history,” UFC President Dana White said. “Cowboy consistently fought the best of the best for over a decade inside the Octagon and set a ton of records in the process. He was also a complete savage who would fight anyone at any time. He is a true legend, and it will be an honor to induct him into the UFC Hall of Fame as part of International Fight Week.”

Cerrone will enter the UFC Hall of Fame as a member of the Modern Wing, joining others in this distinguished category, including Forrest Griffin (2013), BJ Penn (2015), Urijah Faber (2017), Ronda Rousey (2018), Michael Bisping (2019), Rashad Evans (2019), Georges St-Pierre (2020), Khabib Nurmagomedov (2022), Daniel Cormier (2022) and Jose Aldo (2023). The “Modern Era” category includes athletes who turned pro on or after November 17, 2000 (when the first UFC event under the unified rules of MMA was held), are a minimum age of 35, or who have been retired for one year or more.

A veteran of 55 fights during his 16-year professional MMA career, Cowboy compiled a record of 36-17 (2 NC), securing victories over UFC veterans Jim Miller and Edson Barboza, former WEC lightweight champions Rob McCullough and Jamie Varner, former UFC lightweight champions Charles Oliveira and Eddie Alvarez, and former WEC and UFC lightweight champion Benson Henderson.

Cerrone made his professional MMA debut on February 11, 2006, as part of Ring of Fire 21, submitting his opponent, former UFC lightweight Nate Mohr, via triangle choke in the first round. Cowboy would win his next six fights across three MMA promotions, before joining World Extreme Cagefighting as an undefeated lightweight with a 7-0 record.

Donald made his WEC debut on September 5, 2007, on the prelims of WEC® 30: McCULLOUGH vs. CRUNKILTON, which took place at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. Cowboy’s 56-second submission victory (triangle choke) over Kenneth Alexander would be overturned and recategorized as a no contest, but he would secure victories in his next two fights over Danny Castillo and Rob McCullough to earn a shot to win the WEC lightweight title against Jamie Varner in the main event of WEC 38.

WEC® 38: VARNER vs. CERRONE took place on January 25, 2009, at the San Diego Sports Arena in San Diego, Calif., and served as Cowboy’s first headlining event as a professional mixed martial artist. Jamie and Donald put on an amazing fight that would go the distance, with Varner winning via split decision.

Although that was his first loss under the WEC banner, Cowboy would bounce back by winning four of his next six bouts, including his rematch with Varner, before the organization was absorbed by Zuffa.

Over the next five years, Cerrone would win 19 of his next 23 fights, becoming one of the most consistently active and beloved contenders in the UFC lightweight division. He would continue to fight the biggest names in both the lightweight and welterweight divisions during the final six years of his career. He retired in July 2022 after a loss to Jim Miller at UFC 276.

Cerrone enters the UFC Hall of Fame with an impressive resume that includes:

UFC / WEC:

  • Most finishes in UFC / WEC history combined – 20

  • Most wins in UFC / WEC history combined – 29

UFC:

  • Most KO / TKO by kick in UFC history – 7

  • Most knockdowns in UFC history – 20

  • Tied for second-most finishes in UFC history – 16

  • Tied for second-most wins in UFC history – 23

  • Third most fights in UFC history – 38

UFC lightweight division:

  • Second-most wins in UFC lightweight history – 17

  • Tied for second-most knockdowns in UFC lightweight history – 11

  • Tied for fourth-most finishes in UFC lightweight history – 10

  • Fifth-most significant strikes landed in UFC lightweight history – 1,127

Outside the Octagon, Cerrone has been honored with several awards during his career, including being recognized by the Fighters Only World MMA Awards as the Breakthrough Fighter of the Year in 2011, and receiving Fight of the Year honors by Sports Illustrated and Sherdog.com for his 2009 fight against Benson Henderson for the interim WEC lightweight title.

A native of Denver, Colo., Cowboy began his martial arts career by training in kickboxing and Muay Thai. Cerrone holds an undefeated 28-0-1 record as a professional Muay Thai artist and competed in professional boxing. He currently resides in Edgewood, New Mexico, with his wife, Lindsay, and three sons.

To view Cerrone’s UFC FIGHT PASS collection please visit: https://ufcfightpass.com/playlist/13235/donald-cerrone-ufc-hall-of-fame. To see a complete list of UFC athletes and fights enshrined in the UFC Hall of Fame, as well as details regarding the UFC Hall of Fame format, please visit UFC.com/HOF. For additional information, please visit UFC.com.




MOSES BACK ON COPPER BOX CRACKER

NEW HEAVYWEIGHT STAR Moses Itauma will be back in the ring on April 15 at the Copper Box Arena, having been added to the card headlined by the Joe Joyce-Zhilei Zhang showdown.

Itauma, just 18, moved to 2-0 as a professional in Telford tonight where he inflicted a first defeat on the Argentinean Ramon Ibarra.

The World and European youth gold medallist will step up to six round action in London.

Tickets to see Itauma in action on the showdown between Joe Joyce and Zhilei Zhang on Saturday, 15 April at the Copper Box Arena, London are on sale now from: ticketmaster.co.uk.

JOE JOYCE WILL defend his WBO Interim World Heavyweight title against the Chinese giant Zhilei Zhang at the Copper Box Arena on Saturday April 15, live on BT Sport.

Mikaela Mayer will return to the UK, with the former unified super-featherweight belt-holder making her lightweight debut against former two-time super-lightweight world champion Christina ‘Medusa’ Linardatou.

Also featuring at the Copper Box will be the return of Denzel Bentley with a defence of his British middleweight title against Scottish challenger Kieran Smith and Sam Noakes will defend his WBC International Silver and Commonwealth lightweight titles. Northampton super lightweight Eithan James will feature over eight rounds.

Super lightweight Sonny Liston Ali will fight in a six-rounder with Dagenham super welterweight Joel Kodua fighting over four.