By Mario Ortega Jr. –

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA – Solidly-built cruiserweight Blake McKernan returns to the site of his professional debut to take on a tough assignment in Jasper “Smooth Jazz” McCargo while hoping to begin his comeback story on the right note at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel on Saturday night. Fighters for the six-bout card, dubbed “Showdown in Sactown,” weighed-in on Friday afternoon at the host venue. 

McKernan (13-2, 6 KOs) of Sacramento has fought just once since coming up short against former world champion Badou Jack on the Mike Tyson-Roy Jones Jr. undercard in November of 2020. The time away from the ring was due to multiple shoulder surgeries and a bout with severe sepsis, which caused organ dysfunction that had McKernan bedridden for a time. McKernan, known as “The Beast,” is back healthy and looked to be in great shape at Friday afternoon’s weigh-in, scaling 197-pounds. 

McCargo (4-5-3, 2 KOs) of Richmond, California is a veteran with over eight years of professional experience, which was preceded by a successful amateur run on the national level. After a three-fight stretch where McCargo took on three of the most well-regarded prospects he could find, “Smooth Jazz” looked rejuvenated in two fights against Sacramento’s Terrell Glynn last year. In their first meeting, which took place at the DoubleTree, many ringside felt it was McCargo that deserved the four-round decision that ultimately went to the hometown fighter in a majority verdict. In their rematch, the bout was stopped after nearly two rounds due to a cut and declared a technical draw. McCargo was the last fighter to weigh-in Friday, coming in at a trim 184-pounds. 

Islam Abdusamadov (2-0, 1 KO) of San Jose, California by way of Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia will take on Matthew Monroe (1-3) of Sacramento in a four-round middleweight bout between two fighters familiar with the DoubleTree ring. 

Abdusamadov was tested in his last bout against Juan Meza Moreno at this same venue in January, as a second-round knockdown proved the difference in the bout. Monroe fought on the same January card, taking undefeated Victor Guerrero to  the four-round distance. Abdusamadov weighed-in at 164, while Monroe made 165-pounds. 

The squared circle will look undersized when heavyweights Jamaar Collins and Herman Hodnett make their professional debuts against one another on Saturday. Collins, who stands 6’4” and fights out of Merced, California, will look up at the 6’8” Hodnett of Oroville, California, as they meet in a four-rounder. Collins, an ex-footballer, came in at 217-pounds. Hodnett, who played football and basketball at Butte Community College, came in at 216-pounds. 

Tony “Pretty Boy” Hernandez returns to his home away from home in a short-notice four-round light heavyweight bout against Jawan Jackson (0-3) of Sacramento. 

Hernandez (6-3-1, 4 KOs) of Live Oak, California turned in an impressive performance this past January 20th at the DoubleTree in scoring a six-round unanimous decision over veteran gatekeeper Ramon Ayala. 

Jackson, who has also fought professionally in MMA and kickboxing, weighed-in at 169-pounds, while Hernandez came in heavy at 180-pounds. An agreement was reached, which included a fine for Hernandez, and the fight will proceed on Saturday night. 

In an all-Sacramento super featherweight pairing, Dorrel Fore Jr. will take on Jaycee King over four-rounds. Both fighters are making their professional debut. The two locals had the most contentious face-off at Friday afternoon’s weigh-in, with some brief light shoving. Fore Jr. scaled 134-pounds, while King came in at 131. 

William Davis (2-2-1, 1 KO) of Oakland, California will take on Miguel Soto-Garcia (1-2) of Fresno, California by way of Mexico City, Distrito Federal, Mexico in a four-round welterweight bout. Davis came in at 145-pounds, while Soto-Garcia scaled 142. 

Quick Weigh-in Results:

Cruiserweights, 6 Rounds

McKernan 197

McCargo 184 

Middleweights, 4 Rounds

Abdusamadov 164

Monroe 165

Light heavyweights, 4 Rounds 

Hernandez 180* 

Jackson 169

Heavyweights, 4 Rounds

Collins 217

Hodnett 216

Super featherweights, 4 Rounds

Fore Jr. 134

King 131

Welterweights, 4 Rounds

Davis 145

Soto-Garcia 142

*Hernandez eight pounds over the contracted 172-pounds. 

Tickets for the event, promoted by Upper Cut Promotions, are available online at uppercutpro.com or tomorrow night at the door. 

Mario Ortega Jr. can be contacted at ortegajr.mario@gmail.com 

Jesus Saracho won a 10-round split decision over Alberto Palmetta in a welterweight bout at the Pro Box Event Center in Plant City, Florida.

Saracho, 144.2 lbs of Mexico won by scores of 97-93 and 96-94, while Palmetta won a card card 96-94.

Saracho is 14-2-1. Palmetta, 146.9 lbs of Buenos Aires, ARG is 19-3.

Emiliano Moreno remained undefeated with a eight-round unanimous decision over Rashield Williams in a welterweight bout.

Moreno, 146 lbs of Long Beach, CA won by scores of 79-73 on all cards and is now 10-0. Williams, 146.6 lbs of Nassau, BAH is 11-3.

Jonathan Navarro shook off a five-year layoff and on the strength of a disputed knockdown remained undefeated with a eight-round unanimous decision over Clarence Booth in a super lightweight bout.

In round one, Navarro landed a hard overhand right that sent Booth hard into the ropes that was ruled a knockdown.

Navarro, 142.6 lbs of East Los Angeles, CA won by scores of 76-75 on all cards is now 18-0. Booth, 143.4 lbs of Jacksonville, FL is 21-11.

Terrence Williams had to get off the deck to win a six-round split decision over Roberto Escobar in a welterweight bout.

In round two, Escobar dropped Williams with a left hook.

Williams, 146.6 lbs of Tarpon Springs, FL won two cards by 58-56 tallies. Escobar won a card 57-56.

Williams is now 7-0. Escobar, 146 lbs of Mexicali, MEX is 6-3-1.

Michael Pirotton remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Rashad Coulter in a heavyweight bout.

Pirotton, 228.6 lbs of Liege, BEL won by scores of 60-54 on all cards and is now 9-0. Coukter, 246.6 lbs of Dallas is 5-4.

ATLANTIC CITY (July 24, 2024)–Weights for Friday night’s Boxing Insider Promotions card that will take place at Tropicana Atlantic City and streamed Live on DAZN 

Otto Wallin 244 lbs. – Onoriode Ehwarieme 226 lbs.

Jason Castanon 139 lbs. – Arevonte Dukes 136 lbs.

Justin Figueroa 159 lbs. – Freddy Espinoza 159 lbs.

Bruce Seldon Jr. 229 lbs. – Isiah Margheim 243 lbs.

Jacob Riley Solis 162.5 lbs. – James Abraham 164 lbs. 

Marco Romero 168 lbs. – Victor Pradis 168 lbs.

Stacia Suttles 140 lbs. – Kalinda Faria 139 8 lbs.

Promoter: Boxing Insider Promotions

Venue: Tropicana Atlantic City

1st Bell: 7:30 PM ET

Stream: DAZN

“Irish” Micky Ward will be in attendance to meet and greet fans and sign autographs.

photo credit – The Fight Photos/David Algranati

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (July 19, 2024) — Tickets are on sale for the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame (ACBHOF) 8th Annual Awards & Induction Weekend to be held Friday September 27^th, Saturday September 28^th, and Sunday September 29^th, 2024 at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City and Boardwalk Resorts – Flagship Hotel. 

The Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame (ACBHOF) Weekend commences at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City on Friday September 27^th with all 2024 Living Inductees CONFIRMED to attend this year’s festivities.

2024 INDUCTION CLASS:

FIGHTERS: James Buster Douglas, Sergio Martinez, Paul Williams, Gerry Cooney, Mark Breland, Sharmba Mitchell, Tyrone Mitchell Frazier, Mario Maldonado and Eva Jones-Young CONTRIBUTORS: James “Buddy” Mcgirt, Bruce Blair, Sampson Lewkowicz, Eric Bottjer, Randy Gordon, Guy Gargan POSTHUMOUSLY: Howard Davis Jr., Jay Larkin, Eddie Cotton PIONEERS: Eric Seelig, George Godfrey, Joey Giardello

“Thank you esteemed colleagues for selecting me for a prestigious position such as an inductee in the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame! This is a great honor and I salute you all. Moreover, Atlantic City has been great to me throughout my career and I have fond memories of the many fights fought there while pursuing my Championship journey. I look forward to seeing you all in September 2024.” – James Buster Douglas

“Atlantic City holds many great memories from my boxing career, where I experienced triumph and defeat. The iconic Boardwalk Hall marked the start of my recognition on the world boxing stage, establishing me as one of the best globally. I’m humbled and forever grateful for being inducted into the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame with a rich boxing history. Thank you for this extraordinary recognition.” – Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez

“I cherish the memories from my time in Atlantic City, where numerous significant moments unfolded in my life. I’m so proud to be honored by A. C. Boxing Hall of Fame, particularly at this juncture in my life when it might seem that the efforts I invested to achieve championship status are overlooked by many. I’m humbled by this recognition” – Paul Williams 

Weekend at a Glance:

 Friday September 27th, 2024 Live Broadcast of SiriusXM Radio Show “At the Fights” hosted by: Gerry Cooney and Randy Gordon Time: 3:00pm – 5:00pm in Lobby of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City 

 Friday September 27th, 2024 The Opening Bell VIP Cocktail Reception Time: 6:00pm – 9:00pm, $60.00 entry fee online and/or at the door, join us inside The Balcony – Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City 

Friday September 27th, 2024 Hard Hitting Promotions presents: Live Championship Boxing at: Resorts Hotel & Casino Atlantic City – Legendary Superstar Theater Time: 7:00pm – 12am

 Saturday September 28th, 2024 Fight Fan Experience in Sound Waves Lobby Area – Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City Time:10:00am – 2:00pm,

The Highlight of the weekend is Saturday, evening September 28^th, red-carpet formal Awards & Induction Ceremony which takes place in an award show atmosphere. Join us as we honor all who helped make Atlantic City a worldwide boxing Mecca. Attendees will also enjoy the opportunity to mix and mingle in our Pre & Post VIP Cocktail Receptions with boxing royalty and special guests.  

Sunday, September 29^th Brunch & Comedy Show at: Back Stage Café – Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City Time: 11:00am – 2:00pm 

Sunday, September 29^th Cigars, Sip & Mingle with Legends at Tennessee Ave Tobacco Company Time: 3:00pm – 6:00pm 

Tickets can be purchased by visiting: Ticketmaster | ticket prices for Awards & Induction Ceremony are: $125.00 & $60.00 please visit our website for all event tickets, room reservations and full event schedule and itinerary by visiting us at: www.acbhof.com  

A special thanks to our sponsors and supporters: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, Boardwalk Resorts – Flagship Hotel, Mayor Marty Small Sr., City of Atlantic City, Bare Knuckle Fighting Champions, Hard Hitting Promotions, Casino Reinvestment Development Authority, The Irish Pub-Atlantic City, D’Arcy Johnson Day-Lawyers, O.C.E.A.N Inc; Community Action Partnership & Atlantic City PAL, Sampson Boxing, Quail Hill Realty-Smithville, Holman Wealth Management, Tennessee Ave Tobacco Company, Sparbar LTD, Patrick Killian Arts, Guzman Gloves, Adams Boxing, WBC, IBF, Icons of Boxing Memorabilia and Fight Night Apparel

For more information, visit the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame’s website at: www.acbhof.com

ATLANTIC CITY (July 16, 2024)–On Friday night, July 26th, boxing returns to Tropicana Atlantic City as Boxing Insider returns for another exciting night of action.

Tickets are now on sale for $63, $103, $203 and $303 and can be purchased at the following link:

https://www.ticketmaster.com/boxinginsider-live-professional-boxing-atlantic-city-new-jersey-07-26-2024/event/020060CD00CE6AFA

The main event will feature former lineal world heavyweight title challenger Otto Wallin (26-2, 15 KOs) of New York via Sweden take on Onoriode Ehwarieme (20-4, 19 KOs) of Miami in a eight-round battle of big punching heavyweights.

The undercard will be filled with local and undefeated fighters.

In a six-round bout, undefeated Atlantic City native, Justin Figueroa (9-0, 7 KOs) fights Victor Mendoza Arreola (4-1, 2 KO) of Colorado Springs, Colorado in a junior middleweight bout.

In four-round bouts, Atlantic City native Bruce Seldon Jr, (1-0, 1 KO) takes on Isaiah Margheim (1-3) of Sandusky, Ohio in a heavyweight clash.

Jason Castanon (1-0, 1 KO) of New York battles Arvontae Dukes (2-0) of Bronx, NY in a battle of undefeated junior welterweights.

Jacob Solis (4-0, 4 KOs) of New York puts his perfect mark on the line against James Abraham (2-1-1, 2 KOs) in an inter-borough battle of middleweights.

19-time National Amateur champion Marco Romero (1-0, 1 KO) of Kansas City fights Victor Pradis (2-0) of Covington, Louisiana in a scrap of undefeated super middleweights.

Stacia Suttles of the Bronx will make her pro debut against Kalindria Faria (1-1) of Sao Paulo, Brazil in a four-round lightweight bout.

“Irish” Micky Ward will be in attendance to meet and greet fans and sign autographs.

Miami, Florida – Trifon Petrov has signed the undefeated Cuban prospect, Dayan Depestre to a multi-year managerial deal. 

Dayan Depestre was born in Cuba, but now resides in Miami. The undefeated Middleweight was Cuban National Amateur Champion before moving to the United States and turning professional. 

Depestre currently has a record of 3-0 (3KOs) as a professional boxer. His only blemish was a split decision draw against fellow undefeated Euri Cedeño. Depestre took the Cedeño fight on a very short notice because of the opportunity to fight on DAZN. 

“The Cedeño fight was a blessing in disguise. I took the fight on a one week notice and we fought to a draw, but it allowed me to showcase my skills in front of somebody like Trifon Petrov,” said Depestre. 

Trifon Petrov who also manages Euri Cedeño took notice of Dayan Depestre during that fight. 

“I was ringside, and it was a phenomenal fight to watch between two of the best young fighters in the weight class. Cedeño, who’s fighting under the Top Rank and ESPN banner now, has been on a tear before and after the Depestre fight. Dayan was the only fighter who gave Euri any problems,” said Trifon Petrov. 

Depestre trains under Rodolfo Campo at the Alpha Pro Center in Miami. 

“I met with Rodolfo and Dayan in Miami a couple of weeks ago, and we had a great conversation that led me to signing Dayan. I am excited to add another top Middleweight to my team,” added Petrov. 

Dayan Depestre is scheduled to return to the ring on September 6th in Houston on a televised show by DAZN and promoted by Red Owl Boxing. In the main event on that card, we will see another fighter managed by Trifon Petrov in the undefeated Welterweight Thanjhae Teasley.

Toledo, Ohio – Trifon Petrov has signed the undefeated Toledo native, Wayne Lawrence to a multi-year managerial deal. 

Lawrence started boxing at an early age of 3 and quickly became a child boxing sensation. Wayne, who’s better known as “Pretty Boy Bam Bam”, was a guest on t Ellen DeGeneres when he was 7 years old. He also appeared on ESPN First Take, and on Dr. Oz, as well as co-starring alongside Floyd Mayweather in the video of the song “Undisputed” by Ludacris. 

Boxing is a family affair for the Lawrence’s family. Pretty Boy Bam Bam has been trained by his father, Wayne Lawrence Sr. his whole life. 

Wayne Lawrence turned professional in 2021 and has a record of 7-0 (4KOs). 

“We’ve struggled getting fights,” Lawrence said. “People kept turning us down. Nobody really wants to fight me, so my career has been stagnant. I am ready to get national exposure and showcase my talent on TV. Trifon Petrov is one of the best in the game right now. His fighters consistently fight on tv, they fight for titles and stay active. I am excited to work with him and allow him to guide my career moving forward.”

The 22-year-old last fought in April on a local show in Cleveland. Wayne Lawrence stopped journeyman Ira Terry in the second round of their contest. 

“Wayne is extremely marketable and talented fighter. I’ve been following his career for some time now, and I’m happy that we are finally able to work together. We have some exciting things in the works for him. I am expecting him to make his television debut later this year,” said Petrov. 

PHILADELPHIA-–Jaron “Boots” Ennis made a happy homecoming as he stopped gritty David Avanesyan after round five to retain the IBF Welterweight title before a very impressive crowd of 14,119 fans at Wells Fargo Center.

Ennis showed off his immense natural ability by landing some swift and powerful combinations. Ennis landed some serious body shots and slowly started to break down Avanestyan. Avanesyan touched up Ennis by landing some shots as he stood in the pocket against the undefeated champion.

In round five, Avanesyan was having his best round UNTIL, a right hook caught the challenger on the side of the head and the Armenian was sent to the canvas. Ennis continued to land hard combinations and battered Avanesyan at the end of the frame.

In the corner, it was determined that Avanesyan had suffered enough of a beating and the fight was halted.

Ennis, 146.4 lbs is 32-0 with 28 knockouts. Avanesyan, 147 lbs of Newark, ENG is 30-5-1.

Jalil Hackett Decisions Peter Dobson

Jalil Hackett remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Peter Dobson in a welterweight clash.

Dobson controlled the action as he landed some solid combinations. Dobson stood in tough and was able to make the fight closer down the stretch as it was too little. too late as Hackett won by scores of 97-93 twice and 96-94.

Hackett landed 200 of 700 punches. Dobson was 127 of 447.

Hackett, 146.4 lbs of Washington, DC is 9-0. Dobson, 146.6 lbs of Bronx, NY is 16-2.

Skye Nicolson Retains Featherweight Title with Decision over Vargas

Skye Nicolson retained the WBC Featherweight title as she boxed her way to an easy 10-round unanimous decision over Dyana Vargas.

Nicolson boxed and moved perfectly as she opened the fight up by featuring a stiff jab. In the middle rounds Nicolson started landing at will with her straight left. Nicolson was very crafty with her feet as she was always a couple of steps ahead both offensively and defensively for Vargas.

Nicolson landed 135 of 329 punches. Vargas was 28 if 248.

Nicolson, 125.6 lbs of Queensland, AUS won by scores of 100-90 on all cards and is now 11-0. Vargas, 125.6 lbs of The Dominican Republic is 19-2.

Khalil Coe Stops Ritter in 2

Khalil Coe remained undefeated with a two round destruction of Kwame Ritter in their 10-round light heavyweight bout.

In round two, Coe hurt Ritter with a hard left hook. Coe followed the up and landed huge left hook that put Ritter on the canvas. Ritter was hurt and Coe pounced on him by landing hard shots until a right hand knocked Ritter along the ropes and the fight was stopped at 1:59.

Coe, 174 lbs of Jersey City, NJ is 9-0-1 with seven knockouts. Ritter, 173 lb of Baltimore is 11-2.

Christopher Diaz stopped Derlyn Hernandez in round two of their eight-round super featherweight bout.

Diaz, 131.4 lbs of Puerto Rico is 29-4 with 19 knockouts. Hernandez, 131.4 lbs of the Dominican Republic is 12-2-1.

Christian Carto stopped former world title challenger Carlos Buitragp after round three of their eight-round super bantamweight bout.

In round three, Carto scored a knockdown when he landed a right in the corner.. Carto continued to pound away on Buitragp. The corner pulled Buitago out of the fight following the round.

Carto, 124.4 lbs of Philadelphia is 24-1 with 16 knockouts. Buitrago, 125.8 lbs of Managua, NIC is 38-14-1.

Ismail Muhammad staved off an early knockdown and scored one of his own as he won a six-round unanimous decision over Frank Brown in a super lightweight bout.

In round one, Muhammad walked into a perfect right from Brown that put him on the canvas. Later in the round, Brown was cut over his right eye that may have come from a clash of heads during the knockdown punch.

In round four, Muhammad dropped Brown with a right to the top of the head.

Muhammad, 144 lbs of Philadelphia won on two cards by 58-54 scores and 57-55 and is now 5-0. Brown, 144.2 lbs of San Antonio is 3-5-2.

Dennis Thompson made a successful pro debut with a four-round unanimous decision over Fernando Valdez in a bantamweight bout.

Thompson, 116.6 lbs of of Philadelphia battered Valdes and won by scores of 40-36 on all cards and is now 1-0. Valdes, 119.2 lbs of Salta, ARG is 1-8.

Haven Brady Jr. remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Jesus Vazquez Jr. in a junior lightweight bout at the OTE Arena in Atlanta.

Brady landed 184 of 522 punches. Vazquez was 40 of 346.

Brady, 130 lbs of Albany, GA won by scores of 80-72 on all cards and is now 13-0. Vazquez, 133 lbs of Los Angeles is 11-3.

Saul Sanchez won an eight-round unanimous decision over Arthur Villanueva in a bantamweight fight.

Sanchez, 119 lbs of Los Angeles won by scores of 78-74 twice and 77-75 and is now 21-3. Villanueva, 119 lbs of Bagp City, PHL is 35-6-1.

Oshae Jones stopped Simone Da Silva in round five of a scheduled eight-round junior middleweight bout.

In round five, Jones dropped Da Silva with perfect right to the body. Jones continued to hurt Da Silva until a big flurry in the corner forced a stoppage at 1:54.

Jones, 153.2 lbs of Philadelphia via Toledo, OH is -0 with three knockouts. Da Silva, 150 lbs of Sao Paulo, BRA is 17-34.

Kurt Scoby made shirt work of Daniel Lim by registering an opening round stoppage in a scheduled six-round junior welterweight bout.

In the first minute, Scoby dropped Lim by landing a jab that was followed by a hard right. Lim was dropped for aa second time with a left hook. It was another nasty left hook to the body that put Lim down for a third and final time as he did not neat the count at 2:03.

Scoby, 138.5 lbs of Duarte, CA is 14-1 with 12 knockouts. Lim, 136.4 lbs of Don Carolina, CA is 11-2.

David Lopez remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Pedro Pinillo in a junior welterweight fight.

Lopez landed 63 of 229 punches. Pinillo was 29 of 176.

Lopez of Oakland won by scores of 60-54 on all cards is now 6-0. Pinillio of Cali, COL is 5-8/

Johnny Mansour stopped Edgar Uvalle in the opening round of their four-round lightweight bout.

In round one, Mansour landed about 20 unanswered punches that resulted in a standing-eight count. The fight did not last long after as Mansour dropped Uvalle againt after big flurry and a right dropped him in the corner and the bout was stopped at 2:25.

Mansour, 134.6 lbs of San Diego is 2-0 with one knockout. Uvalle, 133.2 lbs of Des Moines, IA is 2-5-2.

NEWARK, NJ–Shakur Stevenson retained the WBC Lightweight Title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Artem Harutyunanyan in front of 8,412 fans at The Prudential Center in Newark.

Stevenson and Harutyunyan each took turns pushing the pace with Stevenson countering very nicely. Late in the fight, Stevenson started to break down Harutyunyan with a body assault. Stevenson was never testes and coasted to the victory by scores of 119-109, 118-110 and 116-112.

Stevenson, 134.1 lbs of Newark, NJ is 22-0. Harutyunyan, 134.8 lbs of Hamburg, GER is 12-2.

Conceicao Decisions Foster to Win Junior Lightweight Title

In his fourth try, at a world title, Robson Conceicao won the WBC Junior Lightweight title with a debatable 12-rpund split decision over defending champion O’Shaquie Foster.

The fight was void of sustainable action as neither fighter seized control. Fioster out landed Conceicao 109-78, but the two of the three judges saw the fight for the Brazilian challenger 116-112 and 115-113. A third judge saw it 115-113 for Foster.

Conceicao, 129.5 lbs of Bahia, BRA is 19-2-1. Foster, 128.8 lbs of Ornage, TEX is 22-3.

Keyshawn Davis Decisions Madueno

Keyshawn Davis remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Miguel Madueno in a lightweight bout.

It was a foul filled fight, but no points were taken away.

Davis, 134.8 lbs of Norfolk, VA won by scores of 99-91 on all cards and is now 11-0. Maduwno, 134.7 lbs of Mexico is now 31-3.

Abdullah Mason Destroys Luis LeBron in 3

Abdullah Mason took out Luis LeBron in round three of their eight-round lightweight bout.

In round two, Mason dropped Lebron with a hard left. With the face of Lebron bloodied, Mason dropped Lebron again with a right hook to the top of the head. In round three, Mason continued to pour it on as he landed a ripping combination that forced a stoppage at 1:18.

Mason, 134.8 lbs of Cleveland is 14-0 with 12 knockouts. LeBron, 135.8 lbs of San Juan, PR is 20-4-1.

“I guess we fed him a little bit of smoke, and he didn’t have the appetite for it.”

What’s next

“A lot of people say they’re ready to fight, but are they? Do they want the smoke?”

Eridson Garcia won a 10-round unanimous decision over William Foster III in a junior lightweight bout.

Garcia, 130.7 lbs of Santo Domingo, DR won by scores of 99-91 twice and 98-92 and is now 19-1. Foster, 130.4 lbs of New Haven, CT is 17-2.

Keith Colon stopped Hunter Turbyfill in round two of their four-round featherweight bout.

In round two, Colon dropped Trbyfill with a hard combination to the body. Turbyfill was reeling and a blistering flurry of punches ended the fight at 2:03.

Colon, 125.3 lbs of Newark is 1-0 with one knockout. Turblyfill, 124.1 lbs of Memphis, TN is 4-2.

Kelvin Davis won an eight-round majority decision over Kevin Johnson in a junior middleweight bout.

Davis, 142.9 lbs of Norfolk, VA won by scores of 78-73 twice and 76-76 and is now 13-0. Johnson, 142.9 lbs of Detroit is 12-4.

Ali Feliz remained undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Robinson Perez in a heavyweight bout.

In round three, Perez was cut around the right eye.

Feliz, 219.5 lbs of Danbury, CT won by scores of 40-36 on all cards and is now 3-0. Perez, 245.1 lbs of Southbridge, MA is 2-1.

July 1, 2024) –Weights for Tuesday Night’s Country Box 18 show at The Troubadour Nashville.

Michael Seals 181.8 – Robert Burwell 184.2

Elijah Williams 143.8 – Wesley Rivers 143.2

Tobias Green 137 – Andrew Rogers 135.8

Tayvian Alpough 111.2 – Kenneth Krimmell (Will weigh in Tomorrow)

William 169.2 – Cleotis Pendarvis 175.2

Joshua Moreno 126.6 – Shane Bridges 128

Promoter: Jimmy Adams Promotions

Venue: Troubadour Nashville

1st Bell 7PM CT (8 PM ET)

TV: USA Today Network, and USA Today Sports Network; Trillerr.TV (Marc Abrams and Albert Haynesworth on the Call)

Photos By Janet Wohler / Jimmy Adams Promotions

Jimmy Adams Promotions & Country Box “Where Music Meets Boxing” is proud to announce that we have now signed a deal with USA Today. USA Today Network can be seen there on any of their viewers, please click the link https://www.gannett.com/channels/ and find the right fit for you to view Country Box March 5 at the Troubadour. Get your tickets at countrybox247.com

Plus Countrybox247.com. ITUBE247.com and Triller.TV

Teofimo Lopez made the second defense of the WBO/Ring Magazine Junior Welterweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over game challenger Steve Claggett at the James L. Knight Center in Miami.

In round 11, Claggett began to bleed from his nose.

Lopez landed 315 of 946 punches. Claggett was 140 of 820.

Lopez, 139.4 lbs of Brooklyn won by scores of 120-108 twice and 119-109 and is now 21-1. Claggett, 139,5 lbs of Calgary, CAN is 36-8-2.

Lopez said, “I knew exactly what kind of fighter he was. I knew he would come forward and test my conditioning. And that’s what we had. We went twelve rounds.”

“The will has to be stronger than the skill. And that’s what we showed tonight. If I was tired, I know he was more tired because I worked very hard for this. We knew we had to break him down. The body shots were hurting him.”

“I’m very grateful. He’s a tough fighter. I don’t think anyone should overlook him. I knew that coming into this.”

Robeisy Ramirez Scores Spectacular 7th Round KO over Brandon Leon Benitez

Former world featherweight champion Robeisy Ramirez scored a highlight-reel seventh round stoppage over Brandon Leon Benitez in a scheduled 10-round bout.

In round five, Benitez began to bleed from the nose.

In round seven, Ramirez started bleeding from the mouth. Later in the round, Ramirez uncorked a devastating right uppercut to the bottom of the chin plummeted Benitez to the canvas and he could not beat the count at 2:46.

Ramirez, 124.8 lbs of Cienfuego, CUB is now 14-2 with nine knockouts. Benitez, 127.1 lbs of Quereitaro, MEX is 21-3.

Ramirez will look to hopefully rematch Rafael Espinoza in his next bout.

Ramirez said, “It’s no secret that Ismael Salas is one of the best strategists in the world. And so the plan was to wear him down little by little. Then, after the last round, he tells me not to look for power shots but to move a bit and to return to my {amateur} roots. That’s what I did. I touched and touched, and I found the shot.”
 
“It’s not my first time landing a shot like that. It feels good to land a punch like that because it demonstrates that we worked hard in camp.”
 
“I want my title back. I want the rematch against Rafael Espinoza. If it’s not with him, then I can fight against any of the other champions.”

Nico Ali Walsh Gets Even and Decisions Sona Akale

Nico Ali Walsh got even with Sona Akale but scoring a knockdown and fighting through a shoulder injury to win a six-round unanimous decision in a middleweight fight.

At the end of round three, Ali Walsh landed a left to the side of the head that put Akale on the canvas.

In round four, Ali Walsh was bruised under his right eye. In round five, Akale was cut over his right eye. In round six, Ali Walsh dislocated his left shoulder but was able to finish the fight.

Ali Walsh landed 91 of 340 punches. Akale was 118 of 325.

Ali Walsh, 156.9 lbs of Las Vegas won by scores of 58-55 twice and 57-56 and is now 11-1. Akale, 156.3 lbs of Saint Paul, MN is now 9-2.

The win for Ali Walsh was a rematch of a bout that Akale won on August 26, 2023

Emiliano Fernando Vargas remained undefeated with a first round stoppage over Jose Zaragoza in a junior welterweight bout.

In round one, Vargas dropped Zaragoza with a perfect counter right. Vargas was all over Zaragoza and landed a big uppercut that rocked Zaragoza and the fight was stopped at 1:32.

Vargas, 139.8 lbs of Las Vegas is 11-0 with nine knockouts. Zaragoza, 139.1 lbs of Sedalia, MEX is 9-9-2.

Elvis Rodriguez won a 10-round unanimous decision over Jino Rodrigo in an action and knockdown filled junior welterweight bout.

It was a wild opening frame as Rodrigo struck first by shockingly dropping Rodriguez with an overhand right to the head. Rodriguez was hurt badly and with Rodrigo landing hard shots on the ropes, Rodriguez turned the tables by landing a short right hook that put Rodriguez on the canvas. At the end of round three, Rodriguez scored a knockdown when he landed another quick right hook.

Rodriguez, 141.6 lbs of Santo Domingo, DR won by scores of 98-91 twice and 97-92 and is now 16-1-1. Rodrigo, 141.2 lbs of Angomo, PHL is 12-4-2.

Lorenzo Medina remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Detrailious Webster in a heavyweight bout.

Medina, 235.6 lbs of Miami won by scores of 60-54, 60-53 and 59-55 and is now 11-0. Webster, 247.7 lbs Courtland, MS is now 7-4.

Rohan Polanco stopped Luis Hernandez in round two of their of their eight-round junior welterweight bout.

Polanco dominated the fight and landed a hard combination that punctuated by a perfect left uppercut that forced a toppage at 2:28.

Polanco, 142.4 lbs of Santo Domingo, DR is now 13-0 with eight knockouts. Hernandez, 143 lbs of Chihuahua, MEX is 23-5.

Yan Santana went the distance for the first time, but he remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Brandon Valdes in a featherweight bout.

In round one, Santana dropped Valdes with a left hook to the chin.

Santana, 127 lbs of La Romana, DR won by scores of 98-91 twice and 96-93 and now 12-0. Valdes, 127 lbs of Barranquilla, COL is 15-5

Euri Cedeno made short work of Dormedes Potes by scoring an opening minute knockout in an eight-roundmiddleweight bout.

Cedenro landed a left and right to the body that put Potes down for the count at 58 seconds.

Cendeno, 161.4 lbs of La Romana, DR is now 9-0-1 with eight knockouts. Potes, 161.7 lbs of Braanquilla, COL is 14-7-1.

Lamont Roach Jr. made the first defense of the WBA Junior Lightweight title with an eight-round stoppage of Feargal McCrory at The Entertainment And Sports Arena in Washington, D.C.

After rocking McCrory un each of the first two rounds with left hooks, Roach dropped McCrory with that very same punch in the third frame. In round four, Roach dropped McCrory with a hard right uppercut to the body. Literally seconds later, Roach landed a left hook to the live that put McCrory down for a third time.

In round eight, Roach continued to batter McCrory and finally dropped him for a final time and the fight was stopped at 2:51.

Roach, 130 lbs of Washington is now 25-1-1 with 10 knockouts. McCrory, 129.6 lbs of New York is 16-1.

Lester Martinez Decisions Carlos Gongora

Lester Martinez remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Carlos Gongora in a super middleweight bout.

Martinez, 167.2 lbs of Guatemala City, Guatemala won by scores of 100-90 and 99-91 twice and is now 18-0. Gongora, 168.6 lbs of Boston is 22-3.

Tellez Giron Stops Dilmaghani After 7

Rene Tellez Giron stopped Alex Dilmaghani after round seven of their 10-round lightweight bout.

In round four, Dilmaghani began to bleed from his nose.

Giron started to beat down and continued to bloody Dilmaghani and the fight was stopped after round seven.

Tellez Giron, 136.2 lbs of Mexico is 20-3 with 13 knockouts. Dilmaghani, 132 lbs of Manchester, ENG is 20-3-1.

Rianna Rios Decisions Mary Romero

Rianna Rios remained undefeated with a eight-round unanimous decision over Mary Romero in a bantamweight contest.

In round five, Romero was deducted a point for hitting on the break.

Tios, 116.6 lbs of Upper Marlboro, MD won by scores of 79-72 and 78-73 twice and is now 8-0. Romero, 117.2 lbs of Murcia, SPA is 10-6.

Ben Johnson wins Pro Debut

12-time National Amateur champion Ben Johnson stopped Michael Williams in round one of their four-round welterweight bout.

In round one, Johnson dropped Williams with a flurry on the ropes that was punctuated by a left around the ear. Seconds later, Johnson dropped Williams again with another hard left hand. When the action continued, Williams slipped down and as he got up referee Sharon Sands stopped the bout at 2:23.

Johnson, 147.4 lbs of Springdale, MD is 1-0 with one knockout. Williams, 147.6 lbs of Las Vegas is 2-3.

Jordan Roach made a successful pro debut with a four-round unanimous decision over Luis Hernandez in a super flyweight bout.

In round two, Roach scored a knockdown when he landed a left hook to the side of the Hernandez’ head.

In round three, Roach landed a flurry that forced the glove of Hernandez to touch the canvas for a second knockdown.

Roach, 115 lbs of Upper Marlboro, MD won by scores of 40-34 twice and 40-35 and is 1-0. Hernandez, 113 1/2 lbs of Dominican Republic is 15-14-1.

Greg Outlaw stopped Isidro Curiel in round four of a scheduled eight-round welterweight bout.

In round four, Outlaw hurt Curiel with a left hook. With Curiel backed on the ropes, Outlaw landed about 15 unanswered punches and the fight was stopped at 2:38

Outlaw, 144 lbs of Bowie, MD is 15-2 with nine knockouts. Curiel, 144.1 lbs of Tamlipas, MEX is 11-4-1.

Deric Davis remained undefeated with a second round stopped Matias Agustin Arriagada in a four-round lightweight bout.

In round one, Davis dropped Arriagada with a left hook to the body. In round two, Davis landed a flurry of punches that put Arriagada down to the canvas. With Arriagada hurt, Davis landed a leftt hand to the chin that forced another knockdown and the fight was over at 1:15.

Davis, 135.4 lbs of Fort Washington, MD is now 4-0 with four knockouts. Arriagada, 132 lbs of Buenos Aires, ARG is 6-12.

Travon Marshall won a six-round unanimous decision over Midyael Sanchez in a junior middleweight fight.

Marshall, 151.0 lbs of Capitol Heights, MD won by scores of 60-54 twice and 59-55 and is now 10-1. Sanchez, 156 lbs of San Juan, PR is 9-6.

Eric Hernandez won a four-round unanimous decision over Jonatan Godoy in a junior welterweight bout.

Hernandez, 140.6 lbs of Ashburn, VA won by scores of 40-36 and is now 11-1. Godoy, 142 lbs of Buenos Aires, ARG is 7-19-1.

NEW YORK (June 281, 2024)–Split-T Management’s WBO Junior Welterweight world champion Teofimo Lopez defends his title against Steve Claggett on Saturday night at The James L. Knight Center in Miami.

Lopez of Brooklyn is a five-time, two-division and former undisputed lightweight world champion, will look to make his second defense of his 140-lb. crown.

Lopez, who now resides in Las Vegas via Brooklyn, is managed by Split-T Management, and has a record of 20-1 with 13 knockouts. The former undisputed lightweight champion is a five-time world champion as he won the IBF Lightweight title with an explosive second-round stoppage of Richard Commey on December 14, 2019 at Madison Square Garden. Lopez picked up three more belts when he won a unanimous decision over Vasiliy Lomanchenko on October 17, 2020.

The 26 year-old Lopez became a two-division world champion with a master class performance when he won a unanimous decision over WBO Junior Welterweight title over Josh Taylor on June 10th at The Theater at Madison Square Garden. In his last bout, Lopez made the initial defense of his title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Jamaine Ortiz on February 8th in Las Vegas.

Claggett of Calgary, Alberta, Canada will be making his first attempt at a world title.

The 35 year-old has been a professional for 16 years. Claggett earned the opportunity on the strength of a current nine-fight winning streak that has consisted of wins over Sebastian Aguirre (18-3), Tony Luis (29-5), Rafael Guzman Lugo (26-2-2), former world champion Alberto Machado (23-3), Carlos Sanchez (24-1), Miguel Madueno (30-1) and his last out when he blasted out Marcos Gonzalez Baraza (23-3) in two rounds on January 25th in Montreal.

Claggett also has wins over Harrison McBain (2-0-1), Abdou Sow (3-0), Ryan Wagner (4-1), Ricky Duenas (12-1), Stuart McLellan (12-1-3), Emanuel Robles (15-0-1), Yves Ulysse Jr, (14-0), Petros Ananyan (13-0-2) and David Theroux (16-3).

Lopez is promoted by Top Rank, weighed 139.4 lbs at Friday’s weigh-in. Claggett was 139.5

The Lopez – Claggett bout will be on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ beginning at 10 PM ET.

Photo by Mikey Williams / Top Rank

In a preliminary bout, undefeated featherweight, Yan Santana will make his United States debut when he takes on Brandon Valdes in a bout scheduled for 10 rounds.

Santana of La Romana, Dominican Republic is 11-0 with all wins coming via stoppage. The 24 year-old Santana of La Romana, Republic has stopped three undefeated opponents and is coming off a fourth round stoppage over Rodolfo Hernandez Montoya on April 6th in Ponce, Puerto Rico.

Valdes of Rosemead, California is 15-4 with seven knockouts. The 25 year-old Valdes is coming off a loss to former world title challenger Ruben Villa on September 15, 2023 in Corpus Christi, Texas.

Santana weighed 127 lbs. Valdes was also 127 lbs.

The bout will be streamed on ESPN+ at 5:45 PM ET.

Friday night in Atlanta, two more members of the Split-T Management team will be in action.

Photo By OTX Boxing

Friday in Atlanta, two members of the Split-T Management team will be in action as Tiara Brown will take on former world champion Gabriela Bouvier in a 10-round featherweight bout.

Brown of Lehigh Acres, Florida is managed by Brian Cohen and carries an impressive mark of 16-0 with 11 knockouts.

Brown, 36, has wins over Vanessa Bradford (5-1-2), Jennifer Martinez (2-0), and is coming off a first round stoppage over Angi Romero on February 17th in Colombia.

Bouvier of Uruguay is 19-12-1 with four knockouts. The 32 year-old Bouvier won the IBF Flyweight title with a 10-round unanimous decision over Florencio Roxana Centeros. She made one defense of the crown. Bouvier had three more world title opportunities. Bouvier has won four in a row with the latest being a 10-round unanimous decision over Augustina Marisa Delen Rojas on December 9, 2023 in Uruguay.

Brown weighed in at 126 lbs. Bouvier was 125.8.

Photo By OTX Boxing

Also in Atlanta, undefeated super middleweight Donte Layne takes on Montrel James in a four-round bout.

Layne, 21 years-old of Elmont, Long Island. New York is 2-0 with two knockouts. Both of Layne’s wins have been first round stoppages with the most recent being over DeShuan Mitchell (2-0) on March 29.

James of Saint Louis is a 12 fight veteran who is coming off a unanimous decision victory over Raymond Harrison (5-1-1) on August 11, 2023 in Saint Louis.

Layne was 167.2 lbs. James was 167.4 lbs.

The Brown and Layne fights are Live on DAZN at 8 PM ET

Darius Fulghum remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Vaughn Alexander in a super middleweight bout that headlined at the Fantasy Springs Resort in Indio, California.

Fulghum landed 168 of 511 punches. Alexander was 78 of 244.

Fulghum, 167.8 lbs of Houston won by scores of 99-91 and 98-92 twice and is now 12-0. Alexander, 171.8 lbs of St. Louis is now 18-12-1.

Tristan Kalkreuth won a 10-round unanimous decision over Anthony Holloway in a cruiserweight bout.

Kalkreuth landed 114 of 334 punches. Holloway was 61 of 238.

Kalkreuthm 199.8 lbs of Las Vegas won by scores of 99-91 on all cards and is now 14-1. Holloway, 190.9 lbs of Duluth, MN is now 7-6-3.

Grant Flores stopped Josias Gonzalez in round three of their six-round super welterweight bout.

In round three, Flores landed a hard right that was followed up by a left to the body that put Gonzalez on the canvas, and the bout was stopped at 2:34 after the ten count.

Flores, 153.8 lbs of Coachella, CA is 5-0 with four knockouts. Gonzalez, 150.4 lbs of Whittier, CA is 2-3-1.

Leonardo Sanchez stopped Jenel Lausa in round four of their six-round lightweight bout.

In round three, Sanchez scored a knockdown from a combination. With just under a minute to go in the round, Sanchez scored another knockdown, this time with a left to the body.

In round four, it was a left hand that put Lausa down again and the fight was stopped at 1:08.

Sanchez, 131.4 lbs of Cathedral City, CA is 7-0 with six knockouts. Lausa, 135 lbs of Manila, PHL is 11-4-1.

Cayden Griffiths made a successful pro debut with a second-round stoppage over Juan Romero in a four-round super lightweight bout.

in round one, Griffiths dropped Romero with a left to the body. In round two, it was another left to the body that put Romero down on his knees and he was counted out at 43 seconds.

Griffiths, 140 lbs of Coachella, CA is 1-0 with one knockout. Romero, 139.4 lbs of Mexicali, MEX is 0-2.