Las Vegas, Nevada – UFC® returns to Los Angeles on Saturday August 2 at STAPLES Center with a world title bout featuring the only 145-pound champion the Octagon® has ever known – Brazilian superstar Jose Aldo – as he defends his title against No. 1 contender Chad Mendes in the most highly anticipated rematch in featherweight history.

The rivalry amongst two of the best camps in mixed martial arts, Nova União and Team Alpha Male, will add another chapter as Mendes (16-1, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif.), riding a five-fight win streak – including three first-round knockouts, looks to avenge the only loss of his career against champion Aldo (24-1, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil). Aldo is coming off a dominant five-round victory over Ricardo Lamas at UFC 169, and is seeking to further cement his legacy as one of the pound-for-pound best fighters in the world. The 27-year-old has never lost in WEC or UFC competition, amassing a perfect 14-0 record.

Other bouts for UFC 176 include:
Fontana’s own Bobby Green (22-5), the 13th ranked lightweight in the world, vs. two-time “Fight Night” bonus award-winner Abel Trujillo (12-5, 1 NC).
Riverside’s hard-hitting Lorenz Larkin (14-3, 1 NC) vs. three-time Division II All-American wrestler Derek Brunson (11-3) at middleweight.
Former lightweight title challenger and No. 10 Gray Maynard (12-4-1, 1 NC) vs. Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt Fabricio Camoes (14-8-1).
Undefeated tenth-ranked Bethe Correia (8-0) meets submission specialist Shayna Baszler (15-8) in the women’s bantamweight division.
No. 6 Jussier Formiga (16-3) battles ninth-ranked Zach Makovsky (17-4) in a battle of top 10 flyweights.
The Ultimate Fighter® semifinalist James Vick (5-0) vs. UFC newcomer Walmir Lazaro (12-2) at lightweight.

Tickets for UFC® 176: ALDO vs. MENDES II, presented by MetroPCS, go on sale June 13 at 10 a.m. PT and are priced at $300, $200, $150, $100, $75 and $50. Tickets are available for purchase online at www.staplescenter.com, via axs.com, or by phone at 888-929-7849, and will be available at the STAPLES Center Box Office stating Saturday, June 14. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. Ticket prices do not include applicable service charges.

UFC Fight Club® members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets to this event Wednesday, June 11 at 10 a.m. PT via the website www.ufcfightclub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thursday, June 12 starting at 10 a.m. PT. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

UFC®176: ALDO vs. MENDES II will be available live on Pay-Per-View at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT on UFC.TV, iN DEMAND, DirecTV, DISH Network, Avail-TVN, and in Canada on BellTV, Shaw Communications, Sasktel, and Viewer’s Choice Canada for a suggested retail price of $44.99 US/$49.99 CAN for Standard Definition and $54.99 US/$59.99 CAN for High -Definition.

About the Ultimate Fighting Championship®
Owned and operated by Zuffa, LLC, the Ultimate Fighting Championship® (UFC®) is the premier mixed martial arts (MMA) organization and largest pay-per-view event provider in the world. Headquartered in Las Vegas with offices in London, Toronto, Beijing, Singapore and Sao Paulo, UFC produces more than 40 live events annually that consistently sell out some of the most prestigious arenas around the globe. UFC programming is broadcast in over 145 countries to 800+ million TV households worldwide in 28 different languages. The UFC has a multi-year broadcast agreement with FOX in the U.S., which annually includes four live events broadcast on the FOX network, as well as The Ultimate Fighter® reality television show and thousands of hours of programming on FOX Sports 1 and FOX Sports 2. In 2014, UFC launched UFC FIGHT PASS™, a digital subscription service with exclusive live events, thousands of fights on-demand and original content. The UFC organization also licenses over 100 UFC GYM® locations, and owns UFC.TV® (offering live event broadcasts and video on-demand around the world), UFC FIT™ (an in-home fitness and nutrition program), UFC Magazine, and has a videogame franchise with EA SPORTS, UFC Fight Club®, UFC Fan Expo®, Octagon™ branded apparel, best-selling DVDs and Blu-rays and Topps Trading Cards. For more information, visit www.UFC.com and follow UFC at www.Facebook.com/UFC and on Twitter and Instagram: @UFC.

NEW JERSEY (June 11, 2014) – Gary Shaw Productions presents, ESPN “Friday Night Fights” July 11, 2014 at the Little Creek Casino Resort in Shelton, WA. The 10-round main event will feature lightweights, Art Hovhannisyan (17-1-2, 9 KOs) vs. Jonathan Maicelo (20-1, 12 KOs) for the WBC International Silver Title. In the co-feature, middleweights Tureano Johnson (14-1, 10 KOs) and Mike Gavronski (14-0-1, 10 KOs) will battle in a 10-round middleweight showdown for the Continental Americas USNBC Title. The ESPN “Friday Night Fights” telecast begins at 9:00 p.m. EST / 6:00 p.m. PST.

Hovhannisiyan, who resides in Glendale, California, is coming off two impressive victories after suffering his first professional loss, a close unanimous defeat to Alejandro Perez. With momentum mounting, Hovhannisiyan, will look to get back into world title contention with a victory.

“As a fighter, I’ve come to realize you learn most about yourself after a defeat,” said Hovhannisiyan. “I’ve rededicated myself to training smarter, and my drive to be a world champion is greater than ever. Shaw knows I’m hungry to get back on top. Maicelo will have his hands full when we step in the ring on July 11th.”

Peruvian born Maicelo is also seeking to get back into title contention with a win. He vows to bring the fight to Hovhannisiyan and realizes a victory will get him closer to a world title shot.

“I feel like my back is against the wall,” said Maicelo. “I’m coming to make a statement and I’ll be going for the knockout. Hovhannisiyan is a good boxer, but he’s not better than me. I know I can win this fight and continue marching toward a world title. The fans can expect to see me bring the fight to Hovhannisiyan. Gary Shaw is the best promoter in boxing”

Tureano Johnson, who hails from the Bahamas, is eager to get back into the ring after a controversial loss to Curtis Stevens, in which he was winning on all scorecards, but had the bout stopped prematurely by the referee.

“In my last bout, the referee stopped the bout early, and I suffered my first loss,” said Johnson. “It was a very disappointing moment in my career but I’m ready to move on and show the world I’m one of the best fighters in the middleweight division. I’m coming back stronger than ever and I can’t wait to mix it up with Gavronski. Nothing is going to stop me from getting this victory. I want to thank my promoter Gary Shaw for getting back in the ring, especially on ESPN.”

Known for having power in both hands, hometown hero Mike Gavronski, has a perfect record and looks to continue his winning ways against Johnson.

“I’m happy to be fighting at home in front of all my family and friends.” Gavronski said, “Johnson is a very tough fighter coming off a tough loss to Stevens so he’s going to bring it when we step in the ring. I look forward to the challenge and I’m confident I can defeat him. It’s going to be a great fight and I’m coming to put on a show for everyone.”

“This is another great ESPN “Friday Night Fights” event,” said Gary Shaw. “All the fighters on this card bring a crowd pleasing style and The Little Creek Casino will be loaded with fireworks on fight night. There is a lot on the line for the Main and Co-Main event fighters. The winners will set themselves up for a big fight, so fans can anticipate a night filled with ferocious action.”

“We’re excited to bring ESPN ‘Friday Night Fights’ back to Little Creek Casino Resort,” said resort CEO Michael Starr. “The past events have provided great drama and excitement, and these fights promise to provide another thrilling night for our visitors and guests.

Tickets priced $100, $50, $35 and $20 are on sale now and can be purchased by calling the Little Creek Casino at 1-800-667-7711, onsite at the Little Creek Casino Box Office, or online at www.little-creek.com.

Former two-division title holder Daniel Ponce De Leon announced his retirement following his knockout loss to Mickey Roman according to Dan Rafael of espn.com

“Thanks to each and every one of my fans and friends who supported me throughout the course of my career,” Ponce De Leon wrote on his Facebook page. “I retire with a great taste for all the great moments. I will search for new goals. God bless you all.”

New York, NY (6/10/14) – Over the years, Lou DiBella has seen his company (DiBella Entertainment) experience its biggest success in the storied middleweight division, having worked with and promoted such middleweight kingpins as Bernard Hopkins, Jermain Taylor and Sergio Martinez. DiBella has also worked, and continues to work with, a slew of other top-rated middleweight contenders and world title challengers, including Andy Lee and Sergio Mora, who are both coming off sensational knockout victories. Looking to keep that trend going in the coming years, DiBella continues to concentrate on the middleweight division by loading up on young, talented 160lb. fighters. After the recent signings of highly touted Ukrainian amateur champions Sergiy Derevyanchenko and Ivan Golub, DiBella has now added fellow amateur standouts, and now undefeated pros, Eduardo Alicea (6-0, 3KO’s) and Paul Littleton (8-0-1, 5KO’s) to his ever-growing middleweight factory.

“The middleweight division has always been one of boxing’s elite weight classes, and it is once again today. We just recently added two of the best amateur boxers in the world to the DBE roster and we are now adding these two undefeated prospects to our growing stable. We truly feel that these talented fighters, in addition to fellow DBE middleweight prospect Lamar Russ, make up the best young group of middleweights in all of boxing. We are excited to be working with each and every one of them,” said DiBella.

Alicea was an outstanding amateur, amassing a 143-16 record and becoming the #1-rated U.S. amateur as a Junior Olympian in 2007 as well as winning the 2007 National Junior Olympics. The 23-year-old turned pro in 2011 but went through some promotional and managerial issues, which kept him somewhat inactive through 2013. Earlier this year, DiBella put Alicea, who is now working with esteemed trainer Robert Garcia, on one of his Broadway Boxing cards in New York and immediately liked what he saw. DiBella quickly moved to sign the promising young prospect, and just recently finalized a deal to co-promote him with Steve Smith’s Rumble Time Promotions, who also co-promotes world-rated junior middleweight contender Willie Nelson with DBE. Alicea will officially make his DBE and Rumble Time Promotions debut on their upcoming ESPN Friday Night Fights card on June 27, at the Ameristar Casino in St. Charles, MO. In addition to the Alicea bout, the newly signed Golub will be making his long-awaited pro debut.

The Chicago Golden Gloves champion Littleton has quickly become one of the most popular fighters on the Chicago fight scene, thanks to his aggressive style and willingness to take on all comers. Littleton’s last five opponents have had a combined 33-4-2 record, with three of those fighters coming in previously undefeated. The lone blemish on Littleton’s record came in a highly disputed six-round split decision draw to 9-1-2 Darnell Wilson. Littleton and Derevyanchenko are expected to make their much-anticipated DBE debuts on DiBella’s upcoming Broadway Boxing cards this summer.

Stay tuned for official fight announcements.

Johannesburg, June 10 – Rodney Berman has contacted IBF middleweight champion Sam Soliman’s camp about potentially matching him with highly-rated Martin Murray in Monte Carlo in October.

He says he has made a “substantial offer” to the Australian, who beat Felix Sturm for the title last month.

Murray fights Max Bursak for the WBC Silver belt in Monaco next weekend, but plans are already afoot to land a bigger prize later this year.

“The middleweight division is very fluid right now and Martin is a big part of that,” said the Golden Gloves promoter in South Africa. “He’s proven himself in major fights and he has huge pulling power.”

WBC champion Miguel Cotto is the hot man of the division after his dominant performance against Sergio Martinez last weekend, but Berman believes he will opt for more established names who would be big draws in New York or Las Vegas.

As for WBA Super champion Gennady Golovkin, Golden Gloves has promoted him a number of times in Monte Carlo, but he has a fight lined up against Daniel Geale next month. Julio Cesar Chavez jnr, Berman speculates, is a likely foe down the line for a potential superfight.

Berman is pursuing Soliman, reasoning that, at age 40, the Australian can’t afford to sit on the sidelines. Besides, the other champions aren’t queuing up to fight him.

The South African promoter will also be keeping a close eye on the August 9 fight in New York between Jarrod Fletcher and Daniel Jacobs for the WBA’s regular middleweight belt. Berman promoted Fletcher’s most recent fight (against Bursak).

“I would be prepared to offer the winner a deal for an October 21 bout against Murray,” said a bullish Berman.

Murray is well placed for an assault on the world title after two desperately close attempts, losing a controversial decision to Martinez in Argentina and drawing with Sturm in Germany.

He is rated number four by the World Boxing Council and effectively number one by the International Boxing Federation, which has the first two positions vacant.

It goes without saying that Murray must first beat Bursak to set the wheels in motion for the planned October extravaganza.

CANTON, MA (June 9, 2014) – On Saturday June 21st, Big Six Entertainment will host the 3rd out of their 6 scheduled events in MA in 2014. Tickets are $40 for general admission and $60 for ringside. Tickets can be purchased now by calling 617-312-5059. The amateurs start at 5:00pm and the pros start at 6:30pm.

The main event features a heavyweight slugfest between Steve Vukosa 8-0, 4 KO’s vs. Arthur “Armenian Assassin” Saribekian 23-5-1, 18 KO’s. Vukosa returns to the ring after a decade hiatus, as he looks to reestablish himself as New England’s top heavyweight contender. Saribekian is a hard hitting veteran that will be looking for another KO victory.

Big Six Entertainment’s CEO and president Artie DePinho said, “We are looking to build on our current success and provide fight fans with another entertaining night under the tent.”

Summer Slugfest showcases top prospect Rashidi Ellis 7-0, 5 KO’s, fan favorite Chris Traietti 16-2, 12 KO’s, and the always exciting Joseph “Chip Perez 10-3, 3 KO’s all in separate bouts against opponents TBA.

The undercard is also stacked with competitive bouts:
Donnie Palmer 5-0-1, 5 KO’s vs. Yohan Banks 7-8-3, 5 KO’s
Freddy Sanchez 1-0, 1 KO vs. Rafael Francis 0-0
Julian Pollard 3-0, 3 KO’s vs. Solomon Maye 1-2, 1 KO
Gabriel Duluc 9-1, 1 KO vs. Bryan Abraham 6-19-2, 6 KO’s
Greg Vendetti 4-2-1, 2 KO’s vs. Jesus Cintron 1-6-2
Mical Weisberg 3-1, 2 KO’s vs. Rameil Shelton 0-5
Travis Demko 1-0 vs. Paulo Souza 0-2
Jelame Garcia 1-0, 1 KO vs. Sergio Cabrera 0-2

The amateur portion of the event is headlined by Gary Balletto Jr. Some of New England’s most promising amateurs will also be featured including Ray Olivera Jr., Kendrick Ball Jr., and Keean Mosses. The full fight card will be announced soon.

Big Six Entertainments 2014 Schedule:
June 21st at The Irish Cultural Center
July 26th at Club Royale Boston
September 13th at The Irish Cultural Center
November 22nd at Club Royale Boston

NEW YORK (June 9, 2014) – In his first title defense this Saturday night, undefeated World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior middleweight champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade (20-0, 13 KOs) has nothing but bad intentions on his mind for mandatory challenger Brian “The Lion” Rose (25-1-1, 7 KOs).

Andrade vs. Rose is the 12-round co-feature, airing on HBO live from Barclays Center in Brooklyn, on a card presented by Andrade’s co-promoters, Banner Promotions and Star Boxing, along with Top Rank. The main event is a 12-round bout between WBO junior welterweight champion Ruslan Provodnikov (23-2, 16 KOs) and unbeaten challenger Chris Algieri (19-0, 8 KOs).

The 26-year-old Andrade, fighting out of Providence, captured the vacant WBO 154-pound title last November on HBO, defeating previously unbeaten 2004 U.S. Olympian Vanes “Nightmare” Martirosyan (33-0-1, 21 KOs) by way of a 12-round decision.

“Training camp was great,” Andrade said. “I worked on getting smarter and harder. We did some things differently than last camp: even faster movements, focusing on what parts of the body to hit, and being explosive. We worked on an all-around plan.”

A 2008 U.S. Olympian and 2007 World Championships gold medal winner, Andrade plans to make a major statement in hopes his performance propels him into a high-profile fight against the winner of Saul “Canelo” Alvarez vs. Erislandy Lara, possibly Floyd Mayweather, Jr. before he retires next year, or a unification fight with Carlos Molino.

“I’m very excited about this opportunity for Demetrius,” Andrade’s manager Ed Farris added. “Hopefully, we’ll get a spectacular win and provide fans with the kind of performance that they deserve. They will see Demetrius’ incredible potential and special gifts if he does what he’s capable of in the ring. Hopefully, they will become excited to see him guys like Mayweather and Alvarez. I know Demetrius can beat every one of the top guys out there. Whether politics in this sport will allow Demetrius the opportunity to show the world his tremendous ability, well, that’s another story. I know one thing, though, sooner or later Demetrius Andrade will be recognized as one of the most talented boxers in the world and boxing politics won’t stop him from eventually getting to the top.”

The gifted boxer of Cape Verdean heritage is not looking past his United Kingdom challenger. “Everybody in boxing has pop,” Andrade noted about Rose’s power in contrast to his seven knockouts in 25 wins. “I just have to go in and do what I do best – pick him apart.

“I’m a bad man! I’m going to whip his ass. He’s getting knocked out. Fans are going to see why none of the top guys in my division want to fight me. I’m taking over!”

Follow Demetrius Andrade on Twitter @BooBooBoxing.

LAWTON, OK
MONDAY, JUNE 9, 2014

Star Boxing and Oklahoma’s popular middleweight contender, “Comanche Boy” George Tahdooahnippah (33-1-2) had to come off the canvas in the second round to score an action packed unanimous decision win over power punching Codale Ford, Friday night June 6, 2014 in XFN Fight Night 19 at the Grand Casino Hotel Resort in Shawnee, OK.

Tahdooahnippah was in command early in the first round and had Ford in trouble early. In the second round, Tahdooahnippah pressing the action, was caught by a right upper cut. Tahdooahnippah went to the canvas for the first time in his professional boxing career, but rose to his feet on unsteady legs to survive the round. In the third round, Tahdooahnippah regained composure and had Ford hurt with thunderous shots to turn the tide of the fight. Ford somehow stayed on his feet through the onslaught of Tahdooahnippah’s power punches to make it through the third round. The fourth and fifth rounds were close with Tahdooahnippah pressing the pace and taking control of the fight. The sixth round Tahdooahnippah and Ford battled with Tahdooahnippah again controlling the action with his ring generalship to pull out the unanimous decision win.

After the fight, Tahdooahnippah said, “Tonight was a tough night, especially in the second round. I was over confident and got hit by a shot I did not see. I knew when I was down that I was going to have to be knock out cold if I was to lose. I have never been down before, but I have the heart of a Comanche warrior. There is no quit in me!” The Comanche Boy looks to get back in the ring soon with details to follow.
AMERICAN INTEGRATED SECURITY GROUP

Our Mission:

AISG delivers Innovative Security Systems with full service expertise and resources to design, deploy, service and monitor in vertical markets. Our strong partnerships helps us to achieve sustainable results across industries for the continued success of our clients.

About Us:

AISG is a privately owned company based on family values. Our CEO, Avi Jacobi and President and CTO, Levy Acs, cofounded AISG in 2007 with a vision to provide comprehensive advanced security systems to the world. Today, the AISG family is committed to building long-term relationships with our clients to provide outstanding customer service and support from initial contact through design and implementation and monitoring. AISG focuses on giving employees, partners and customers the technology solutions to reach new levels of efficiencies and enhanced safety.

Before a standing room only, packed house, WBU World Lightweight Champion Noah Zuhdi (18-1, 14 KOs), Oklahoma City, OK, USA, retained his world title on Friday, June 6, 2014, in Oklahoma City defeating Eduardo Pereira dos Reis (13-2, 8 KOs), Sao Paulo, Brazil by TKO in the 4th round. Reis did not answer the bell for the 5th round. In the 4th round, Zuhdi connected with several uppercuts and powerful right hands and left hooks which left a lasting impact, inflicting a punishing body attack on the game Reis which zapped the strength and will out of him. In the early rounds, Zuhdi connected with numerous jabs and combinations. Reis had his moments but Zuhdi was too strong for him and dominated every round. The stoppage was only Reis’s second loss in 15 fights.

Don “Moose” Lewis, Chairman of the WBU, said Zuhdi was “one of the hardest hitting lightweights in the world” and that “Oklahoma City has a great sports franchise in town, and that franchise is WBU World Lightweight Champion Noah Zuhdi”.

The event was promoted by catBOX Entertainment and hosted by Oklahoma City’s newest and best outdoor venue, the OKC Downtown Airpark. WBU World Champion Zuhdi is signed with catBOX Entertainment. Photos at www.catboxentertainment.com.

On the undercard in an exciting bout, super middleweight Bo Gibbs, Jr. (11-0, 6 KOs), also a catBOX fighter, defeated David Lujan (4-1, 1 KO), from Wichita, Kansas, by unanimous decision after six grueling rounds. Boxing veteran Terry Buterbaugh (10-10, 4 KOs), Colorado Springs, CO, lost to long time amateur turned pro Anthony Hill by majority decision in a fight that could have easily been called either way. Joe Blurton, pro debut, was knocked out by Tolu Aguibaide, pro debut, in the second round. Raquel Vidal (1-2) won by TKO over Akasha Adams (0-2).

BOLTON (June 9) – Bolton sensation Haroon Khan continued his unbeaten run with an assured victory over Csaba Kovacs at the Reebok Stadium.

The 23-year-old battled tough Hungarian Kovacs in his hometown at the weekend, taking his stretch of wins to five since turning professional last year, as he conclusively won 60-55 on points over 6 rounds.

Khan’s superior speed and ringcraft was evident from the start, as he took it to the bigger man, whilst catching him with left hooks as he came in.

This was the first time super-flyweight Khan had boxed six-rounds, yet the young dynamo looked convincing and calm throughout, showing he was able to maintain a longer distance as he steps into a new phase in his blossoming career.

“I felt good in there and was very pleased to get another win under my belt,” said Haroon. “This was my first six-rounder and with the change of opponent at the last moment I’m happy with how things went. Kovacs was very tough and he caught me with a couple of good shots but I showed I was able to take them and come back even harder. I needed a fight like this and it’s only going to bring me on as a fighter – I’ve learnt so much from this fight,” he said.

Khan is set to be out again in September and will know what to expect when he goes into his next bout.

“This fight has shown me what I’m going to be up against for future fights over six rounds and beyond. It’s about pacing yourself, picking your shots and I know for my next fight I’ll be even better because I’ll know what’s coming,” said Khan.

“I’m going to observe Ramadan over the coming weeks and I hope to be out again in September. In the meantime, I’ll be ticking away in the gym and looking to improve mistakes I felt I made in this fight with my trainer Oliver Harrison,” he said.

Older sibling Amir Khan was ringside on Saturday night and will be looking to share his knowledge, as a former unified world champion, with the exciting young prospect.

“Haroon has all the tools to do really well and go very far in the sport,” said Amir. “I thought he did excellent getting the win but I’ll definitely be in the gym with him giving some pointers. This was the first time he has done six rounds and the more rounds he gets under his belt the more it will help him.

“There are a few changes I would like to see him implement in his approach, with him using his boxing skills a bit more because he has all the weaponry he needs,” he said.

BROOKLYN (June 9, 2014) – This past Saturday, WBO Jr. Welterweight champion Ruslan Provodnikov and undefeated challenger Chris Algieri met with a small group of journalists at Uncle Jack’s Steakhouse in New York City to talk about their June 14 title bout at Barclays Center. Their world title bout will be televised live on HBO Boxing After Dark®, beginning at 10 PM ET/PT.

Below are quotes and images from the media conference.

Photo Credit Claudia Bocanegra

PROVODNIKOV QUOTES:

“Despite winning the title I still feel like a challenger and I train like one. The only thing that has changed for me now that I am a world champion is that I now have more responsibilities, like interviews and appearances.

“My job on June 14 is to chase Algieri and hunt him down. He should be more worried about me. His style of fighting is not my favorite. I prefer an opponent who likes to engage and fight toe-to-toe, not a runner. I don’t have trouble with runners. They have trouble with me.

“This is a very important fight to me because it will show how many fans I can attract. Brooklyn feels like a second home. I hope Barclays Center can become my home arena in the same manner Miguel Cotto has at Madison Square Garden.

“I am focusing on a shorter, more prominent career. I only want the big fights. The fights the fans want to see. I want to make an impact and leave. I do not want to outstay my welcome in boxing. Money has never been my primary goal. I want to make the most out of my abilities to be my best in the ring. The respect of the fans and my achievements mean more to me than a title belt.

“I did not have an easy time growing up in Siberia. I don’t know where my childhood friends are now. Most are probably in jail. I stole food, sniffed glue, smoked and drank. My amateur boxing coach saved my life and helped to redirect my life toward being a productive person.

“I don’t like to spend my money on frivolous things and I haven’t. My family is secure and our life has improved since I have become a champion. The governor of my region is having a sports complex dedicated in my name built. It should be completed in 2015.

“I like to recite Russian poetry to myself as I make my ring walk.

“Most of my original goals have been achieved. When I was younger I would watch Mike Tyson fight. It was my dream to meet him and I finally realized that dream at the BWAA Awards Dinner when he shook my hand and presented me with the Fight of the Year award. Now it is time to set new goals where I can help others.”

ALGIERI QUOTES:

“My training in Las Vegas was very good, we had terrific sparring and I’ve been finishing off the last two weeks of camp here in New York City.”

“I’m not in awe of fighting Ruslan at all. I’ve watched him fight in the past and I have a very strong game plan to beat him. I’ve seen what works against him and just as importantly what doesn’t.”

“Emmanuel Taylor who I beat in February was a hard punching, strong fighter who had knocked out a high number of opponents. I wasn’t supposed to beat him or Jose Peralta. The underdog role fits me perfectly.”

“I’ve always loved boxing, but I had success at kickboxing and initially pursued
that. My favorite fighter was Oscar De La Hoya, at his peak he could do it all. But boxing has always been my passion, my love.”

“I was in a couple camps with Marcos Maidana and Brandon Rios, sparring for weeks. Both of them, like Ruslan are aggressive, very strong fighters who I had success against in training.”

“Yes, I’ve go options with my (clinical nutrition) degree, I don’t have to fight but I don’t think that
should be a factor in wanting to win any less. I’ve wanted to be a world champion
since I started boxing and I want to win just as badly as Ruslan does next Saturday.”

“Barclays is a beautiful venue and I’m sure both of us will have a large fan bases
cheering us on.”

“Of course I said yes immediately when offered the fight, fighting for a world title and on HBO is a terrific opportunity. But, also I know that I can beat Ruslan.”

“Sure many people will be shocked when I win, but not me.”

“Long Island has been terrific to me with their local support, it would mean a great deal to the people of Huntington for me to win the world title.”

LONDON (June 9) – BoxNation is delighted to announce that they will be showing the exciting world championship kickboxing event ‘Enfusion Live: Edition 19’, featuring England’s heavyweight world champion Daniel Sam, live and exclusive on June 29th in London.

The venture into the wider world of combat sports comes as an addition to the channel’s world class and unrivalled boxing coverage, which ‘The Channel of Champions’ will continue to deliver to its dedicated subscribers.

However, the agreement with Fighting Spirit – an international leader in the distribution of combat sports television – will see BoxNation widen its horizons as it airs the much anticipated event taking place at The Troxy in London.

The evening will see a host of top class action led by heavyweight hitter and reigning world champion Sam who defends his title against Morocco’s skilled 23-year-old Ismael Lazaar.

Londoner Sam, known as ‘The Warrior’, has earned an enviable reputation as a hard-hitting puncher who is able to deliver flying knees and devastating low kicks that has seen him earn a record of 25 wins in his 35 fights.

Lazaar, though, is the younger man compared to the 32-year-old Sam, and has faced and beaten some formidable names in the likes of The Netherlands Rick van Soest, so has shown he is ready for his shot at the big time.

Further world title action on the night will see the experienced reigning -90kg champion Wendell Roche – who holds the unparalleled record as being the only man to ever defeat kickboxing great Ginty Vrede – put his 90kg belt up for grabs when he battles the incredibly talented Andrew Tate – born in the USA and raised in England – who is more used to fighting in lighter categories and thus delivers fast paced action in the ring.

Ireland’s Chris Cooper faces Adam Hart from England at 95kg in a tremendous grudge fight after Cooper TKO’ed Hart back in December 2013, with ladies action set when the tough Grace Spicer challenges Ferial Ameeroedien of South Africa, with many more enthralling bouts also taking place.

‘Enfusion Live’ is the live format of the world renowned brand Enfusion which started in 2008 with a reality television show, expanding internationally four years later due to its success.

As of 2014, Enfusion produces live world championships, a yearly edition reality television show, and a development league ‘Fighting Rookies’.

‘Enfusion Live’ takes place 12 times a year and travels around Europe promoting premium live events.

“I am very excited to bring Enfusion Live and Fighting Spirit MMA on UK television,” said Sacha Puyssegur, Head of Programs Sales at Fighting Spirit. “The UK is such a great place for combat sports! The country has an endless pool of talented fighters and we are proud to be able to showcase them to their compatriots thanks to our starting relationship with BoxNation.”

Jim McMunn, Managing Director at BoxNation, said: “We are delighted to bring Enfusion Live to our viewers. Boxing will always be at the heart of who we are but when the opportunity arrives to deliver additional top class sporting events then we will take it, and it can only enhance the schedule for our customers.”

To subscribe to BoxNation (Sky 437/490HD & Virgin 546) visit www.boxnation.com.

-Ends-
About BoxNation

BoxNation, the Channel of Champions and proud partner of Rainham Steel, is the UK’s first dedicated subscription boxing channel. For £12* a month and no minimum term customers can enjoy great value live and exclusive fights, classic fight footage, magazine shows and interviews with current and former fighters.

BoxNation is proud to support Fight for Peace, a charity that uses boxing and martial arts combined with education and personal development to realise the potential of young people in communities that suffer from crime and violence. Buy LUTA (www.luta.co.uk) clothing and support Fight for Peace.

Previous highlights have included Haye vs Chisora, Khan vs Diaz and Mayweather vs Alvarez.

The channel is available on Sky (Ch.437), Virgin (Ch.546), online at Livesport.tv and via iPhone, iPad or Android. BoxNation is also available in high definition on Sky (Ch. 490), at no extra cost to Sky TV subscribers, providing they are already HD enabled.

BoxNation is also available to commercial premises (inc. pubs, clubs and casino’s) in the UK and Ireland, for more information on a commercial subscription please call 0844 842 7700.

For more information visit www.boxnation.com

New York City (June 9, 2014) Undefeated heavyweight’s BRYANT “By By” JENNINGS and MIKE “The Rebel” PEREZ will clash in a World Boxing Council (“WBC”) Heavyweight Title Eliminator on SATURDAY, JULY 26 at The Mecca of Boxing, Madison Square Garden. The fight will be televised Live on HBO World Championship Boxing® beginning at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT, it was announced today by K2 Promotions and Gary Shaw Productions in association with Antonio Leonard Promotions.

The winner of the 12-round bout will become the mandatory challenger for the WBC Heavyweight Title, which was vacated by longtime champion Vitali Klitschko earlier this year.

The Jennings/Perez bout will serve as the co-feature to the WBA/IBO World Middleweight Championship defense by GENNADY “GGG” GOLOVKIN against two-time world champion DANIEL “The Real Deal” GEALE.

“I commend HBO for sticking to their guns on making Jennings vs. Perez happen after the fight was called off.” said Gary Shaw. “I know Bryant is thrilled to be returning to the Madison Square Garden where he made his HBO debut and defeated Artur Szpilka who was undefeated at the time. Jennings is eager to show everyone he’s the best heavyweight contender out there. This will be a fight the fans will not want to miss. The next great American heavyweight will be on display, and I’m talking about Bryant Jennings.”

Said Tom Loeffler of K2 Promotions; “We’re very excited to add this outstanding heavyweight matchup to the action packed “G4” boxing event featuring the return of Gennady Golovkin to Madison Square Garden. There is a lot at stake in this heavyweight fight and it’s fitting that it take place at “The Mecca of Boxing” where so many legendary heavyweight bouts have been held. There is nothing like heavyweight boxing at Madison Square Garden.”

“We feel that Mike is among the best heavyweights in the world and expect him to show that on July 26 against Bryant Jennings.”

“The fight is on again and I’m ready to make a statement against Perez,” said Jennings. “My fans can expect another great performance on July 26 as I return to the Madison Square Garden. HBO shows it’s serious about bringing the heavyweight division back to its glory days by making this fight happen and I’m here to make a name for myself. I want to thank Mauricio Sulaiman for including me in the Heavyweight tournament, giving me an opportunity to fight the winner of Wilder vs. Stiverne for the WBC world title.”
“I’m very happy this bout has been rescheduled,” said Perez. “My dream is to fight for the WBC heavyweight championship and a win over Jennings will bring me that much closer. I look forward to fighting on HBO again and I will prove that I deserve a shot at the heavyweight championship when I am victorious on July 26.”
“The WBC is proud to sanction the fight between Perez vs. Jennings as a final elimination fight as part of the WBC tournament in the Heavyweight division,” stated Mauricio Sulaiman, President of the World Boxing Council.

“Vitali Klitschko was honored with the Emeritus Champion distinction after he decided to dedicate his career to the politics of his country Ukraine and he is being regarded as a hero by many.”

“The WBC ordered a tournament between all the top rated fighters to fight and Perez vs. Jennings will prove to be a formidable match to find the second mandatory contender of the WBC Heavyweight division. “

The 29-year-old Jennings, 18-0-0 (10KO’s) is coming off his career best victory, a sensational, HBO televised tenth round knockout of Poland’s Artur Szpilka on JANUARY 25 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Dominating the action from the outset, Jennings dropped the crafty southpaw in the sixth before finishing him off in the final round.

A highly successful amateur in his native Cuba, the 28-year-old Perez has compiled a record of 20-0-1 (12KO’s), since moving to Ireland and turning professional in 2008.

Perez has recently made two previous appearances on HBO and is looking forward to showcasing his skills against another undefeated fighter on July 26th.

GOLOVKIN VS. GEALE is presented by K2 Promotions, GGG Promotions in association with Gary Shaw Productions and Grange Old School Boxing.

Advance tickets priced at $500, $300, $200, $100, $50 and $25 can be purchased starting at 12:00 p.m. ET on Tuesday, June 10, at the Madison Square Garden Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster charge by phone (866-858-0008) and online at www.ticketmaster.com and www.thegarden.com

For fight updates on JENNINGS VS. PEREZ via Social Media, follow HBO Boxing on Twitter at @HBOBoxing and Facebook at /HBOBoxing, Bryant Jennings on Twitter at @BYJennings, Tom Loeffler/K2 Promotions at @TomLoeffler1 and Gary Shaw Productions at @GaryShawBoxing. Use the hashtag #JenningsPerez to join the conversation on Twitter.

For fight updates on GOLOVKIN VS. GEALE via Social Media, follow HBO Boxing on Twitter at @HBOBoxing and Facebook at /HBOBoxing, in addition to on Twitter at Gennady Golovkin/@GGGBoxing, Daniel Geale/@RealDealGeale, Tom Loeffler – K2 Promotions/ @TomLoeffler1 and Gary Shaw Productions/@GaryShawBoxing. Use the hashtag #GolovkinGeale to join the conversation on Twitter.

New York City (June 9, 2014) Saturday afternoon in New York City, a Press Conference was held for “G4”, the boxing extravaganza set for SATURDAY, JULY 26 at ‘The Mecca of Boxing”, Madison Square Garden and Live on HBO World Championship Boxing® beginning at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT.

In attendance were WBA/IBO Middleweight World Champion GENNADY “GGG” GOLOVKIN, Two-Time World Champion DANIEL ‘The Real Deal” GEALE along with undefeated heavyweight contenders BRYANT “By By” JENNINGS and MIKE “The Rebel” PEREZ in addition to undefeated welterweight prospect DUSTY HERNANDEZ-HARRISON. Hosting the press conference were Tom Loeffler of K2 Promotions and Gary Shaw of Gary Shaw Productions.

The Press Conference was hosted by the internationally recognized voice of boxing, Hall of Famer, MICHAEL BUFFER. (All photos/courtesy Will Hart.)

GENNADY GOLOVKIN—“Thank you to HBO and Madison Square Garden for welcoming me back. I’m very happy to be fighting Daniel Geale, I’ve known him for many years and this will be a terrific fight for the fans. Saturday, July 26 will be a great night at Madison Square Garden.”

“I would also like to give express special thanks to our partner – EXPO-2017, an International Exposition dedicated to green energy scheduled to take place in 2017 in Astana, Kazakhstan.”

DANIEL GEALE—“This is a tremendous opportunity for me. I want thank HBO, Gary Shaw, Grange Old School Boxing and Madison Square Garden. This is a perfect fight for me and I look forward to the challenge of facing Gennady.”

BRYANT JENNINGS—“I want to thank Gary Shaw in addition to Antonio Leonard and James Prince. I also want to thank HBO. I’m very happy to be back on their network and back at Madison Square Garden.”

“Mike doesn’t like to talk much but I’m here to tell you that I will be the next heavyweight champion from the United States and I can’t wait for July 26.”

MIKE PEREZ—“I don’t have much to say but I look forward to facing Bryant Jennings on July 26 and fighting on HBO.”

Golovkin will be defending his WBA “Super Champion” Middleweight Title and IBO Middleweight World Title against Geale in the 12-round main event.

With the highest knockout ratio (89%) among all active champions, in addition to his extraordinary growth in viewership on HBO, Golovkin, 29-0-0 (26KO’s), has become a must-see attraction in the international sporting world.

In 2013, Golovkin scored four knockouts, three of which were telecast on HBO to outstanding viewership earning him plaudits for both Fighter of the Year and Knockout of the Year among many media members.

Previously holder of the (‘IBF’) International Boxing Federation Middleweight and WBA “Super” Middleweight Title, Geale brings a distinguished record of 30-2-0 (16KO’s) into the world title challenge with Golovkin. Geale is currently ranked #3 by the World Boxing Association.

GOLOVKIN VS. GEALE is presented by K2 Promotions, GGG Promotions in association with Gary Shaw Productions and Grange Old School Boxing.

The Jennings/Perez bout will serve as the co-feature at “G4” with the winner of the 12-round bout becoming the mandatory challenger for the WBC Heavyweight Title, which was vacated by longtime champion Vitali Klitschko earlier this year.

The 29-year-old Jennings, 18-0-0 (10KO’s) is coming off his career best victory, a sensational, HBO televised tenth round knockout of Poland’s Artur Szpilka on JANUARY 25 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Dominating the action from the outset, Jennings dropped the crafty southpaw in the sixth before finishing him off in the final round.

A highly successful amateur in his native Cuba, the 28-year-old Perez has compiled a record of 20-0-1 (12KO’s), since moving to Ireland and turning professional in 2008.

Perez has recently made two previous appearances on HBO and is looking forward to showcasing his skills against another undefeated fighter on July 26th.

JENNINGS VS. PEREZ is presented by K2 Promotions and Gary Shaw Productions in association with Antonio Leonard Promotions.

With a record of 22-0-0 (12KO’s), Hernandez-Harrison will be fighting for the third time on the undercard of a Gennady Golovkin world title defense.

Advance tickets for “G4” priced at $500, $300, $200, $100, $50 and $25 can be purchased starting at 12:00 p.m. ET on Tuesday, June 10, at the Madison Square Garden Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster charge by phone (866-858-0008) and online at www.ticketmaster.com and www.thegarden.com

For fight updates on GOLOVKIN VS. GEALE via Social Media, follow HBO Boxing on Twitter at @HBOBoxing and Facebook at /HBOBoxing, in addition to on Twitter at Gennady Golovkin/@GGGBoxing, Daniel Geale/@RealDealGeale, Tom Loeffler – K2 Promotions/ @TomLoeffler1 and Gary Shaw Productions/@GaryShawBoxing. Use the hashtag #GolovkinGeale to join the conversation on Twitter.

For fight updates on JENNINGS VS. PEREZ via Social Media, follow HBO Boxing on Twitter at @HBOBoxing and Facebook at /HBOBoxing, Bryant Jennings on Twitter at @BYJennings, Tom Loeffler/K2 Promotions at @TomLoeffler1 and Gary Shaw Productions at @GaryShawBoxing. Use the hashtag #JenningsPerez to join the conversation on Twitter.

(CANASTOTA, NY): Capping a legendary athletic career that included 10 titles at six different weight divisions; a gold medal and dozens of championship fights, International “Golden Boy” Oscar De La Hoya was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame today in Canastota, NY.

“Today marks an incredible personal achievement, but it is only the latest milestone that never would have been possible without my family, my friends and, most of all, my fans,” De La Hoya said during the ceremony.

De La Hoya, 41, went into the Hall of Fame as part of an All Star class that included rival Felix “Tito” Trinidad and undefeated Super Middleweight World Champion, Joe Calzaghe.

Hours before the official induction ceremony, De La Hoya announced a $50,000 donation to the International Boxing Hall of Fame to mark the landmark’s 25th anniversary.

“Not only are all the legends of our sport honored inside the Hall of Fame, the people of Canastota are so knowledgeable and passionate about boxing, it was my pleasure to play a small part in maintaining the building and grounds in this wonderful part of the country.”

De La Hoya touched on numerous topics during his speech including the familial nature of boxing, his legendary matches with a cadre of superstars and the future of the sport.

“We must put aside the egos that have damaged our brand and sullied our reputation. We, the promoters, must stop carrying petty grudges that serve no purpose but to divide our sport. And most important, we must give the fans the fights that they want,” De La Hoya said.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @OscarDeLaHoya, on Instagram @goldenboyboxing, @RealOscarDeLaHoya and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing.

David Price (18-2, 15 KOs) continued his comeback with a unanimous decision victory over Yaroslav Zavorotnyi (16-7, 14 KOs) at the Sport and Congress Center in Schwerin, Germany. After ten rounds of action the judges scored the fight 97-92, 98-92 and 100-90 in favour of the British heavyweight.

Price controlled the fight with his jab, while looking to unload his powerful right hand. Although Zavorotnyi proved a durable opponent he offered little in reply to Price’s dominance, resulting in a well-earned points victory for the 6ft 8’’ Liverpudlian.

‘’I was pleased with my performance,’’ said Price. ‘’It was great to get ten rounds in the bank. I’ve been a pro for five years but this was the first time I’ve gone ten rounds, so it was a good learning experience for me.

‘’Zavorotnyi was an awkward opponent. He kept his hands up, chin down and made himself difficult to hit. I may not have got the knockout but I stayed focused and did what I had to do to get the win.’’

Said promoter Kalle Sauerland: ‘’This was a great display from Pricey. He is really starting to show the improvements he has made in gym and during this rebuilding process. In terms of experience these ten rounds are like gold dust! We will be sitting down in the coming days to discuss whether we are ready to bring the big man home.’

LAS VEGAS — June 8, 2014 — Professional Boxing Manager Cameron Dunkin has signed Youngstown-based fighter Willie Nelson (21-1-1 12KO). Nelson, who is from Cleveland but trains in Youngstown with Jack Loew, is excited about the signing, saying “I feel like Cameron is the missing piece in my team. He’s the person that can get me the fights and exposure I need to move forward in my career.”

“I’m very happy with this signing,” said Dunkin. “Jack Loew is a tremendous and, in my opinion, underrated trainer. He did a great job with Kelly Pavlik, and he’s doing a great job with Willie. Willie has the potential to beat any junior middleweight in the world. He’s a really good boxer, a really good puncher, and shows a lot of heart. I’m really excited to be working with him.”

Nelson scored a spectacular first round knockout over Darryl Cunningham on the undercard of last night’s Cotto-Martinez PPV event.

HBO Sports presents SERGIO MARTINEZ VS. MIGUEL COTTO, the replay of their highly anticipated world middleweight title fight, SATURDAY, JUNE 14 at 10:00 p.m. (ET/PT) on HBO. The HBO Sports team, which was ringside for the live coverage at New York’s iconic Madison Square Garden, calls all the action, available in HDTV.

In the hottest prizefight of the first half of the year, Martinez and Cotto — two of boxing’s most celebrated superstars — met for the first time in the ring on Saturday, June 7. The showdown was carried live on HBO Pay-Per-View®. Cotto, in a career-defining performance, captured the middleweight title belt with a dominating display. The fight was stopped in round 10.
Immediately following the replay, HBO presents the previously announced “HBO Boxing After Dark®” doubleheader from Brooklyn headlined by the world junior middleweight title fight between Ruslan Provodnikov and Chris Algieri.
Other HBO playdates for all bouts: June 15 (9:30 a.m.) and 17 (12:25 a.m.)
HBO Signature playdates for all bouts: June 15 (3:00 p.m.) and 16 (12:30 a.m.)
® HBO BOXING AFTER DARK is a registered service mark of Home Box Office, Inc.

Cecilia Brækhus (25-0, 7 KOs) successfully defended her WBC, WBO & WBA Female World Welterweight titles with a unanimous points victory over Jessica Balogun (24-4, 12 KOs) at the Sport and Congress Center in Schwerin, Germany last night.

Balogun proved a tough opponent but was ultimately outclassed by Brækhus. The judges scored the fight 100-90, 99-91 and 98-92 all in favour of the pound-for-pound number one.

‘’It was a tough fight, but I expected that. Jessica is one of the toughest fighters around,’’ said Brækhus. ‘’All in all I was pleased with my performance. We had been working on some new things in the gym, improving my footwork and movement, and I think that showed tonight. Of course there are always things I feel I could have done better. But I am very happy!’’

Said Balogun: ‘’Cecilia is great fighter. She has very good technique. I think I focused too much on the knock out and forgot about my own technique, and that’s where in went wrong for me. But I would love to fight her again!’’

Following her second victory over Balogun, Brækhus is now looking to clean up the division and add the IBF crown to her impressive haul of titles.

‘’I would like to fight for the IBF belt next,’’ said Brækhus. ‘’I already hold the WBC, WBA & WBO titles and now I want to unify the division and become the first female fighter to hold all four belts.’’

Brækhus also admits she would willing to move up or down in weight in order to cement her legacy as the pound-for-pound queen.

‘’I want to fight the best there is. If that means moving up or down in weight to fight other champions then so be it. I am ready for the challenge.’’

Said promoter Nisse Sauerland: ‘’It was a good fight and a good win for Cecilia. Credit to Balogun, she is tough lady and gave Cecilia another ten hard rounds. There are still lots of options available to Cecilia and we will be sitting down in the coming weeks to discuss what’s next for the ‘’First Lady’’.’’

Miguel Roman scored a upset when he stopped former world champion Daniel Ponce De Leon in round nine of a scheduled 10-round Super Featherweight bout at Estadio de Beisbol in Ciudad Cuauhtemoc, Chihuahua, Mexico.

Roman scored a knockdown in round six and finished off a weary De Leon in the 9th when he landed about 20 unanswered blows as De Leon was squatted down in the corner.

Roman, 127 1/2 lbs of Chihuahua, MX is now 46-11 with 35 knockouts. De Leon, 129 lbs of Chihuahua, MX is now 45-7.

Macos Reyes scored a 10-round unanimous decision over Octavio Castro in a Jr. Welterweight bout.

Catro, 159 lbs is now 32-1. Reyes, 157 lbs is now 16-13-2.