Sherman Oaks, Calif. (Jan. 21) – World-rated light welterweight Mike Dallas Jr. (19-2-1, 8 KOs) is geared up for what will be the biggest and most emotional fight of his professional career as he takes on Argentine sensation Lucas Matthysse (32-2, 20 KOs) in a SHOWTIME® Championship Boxing main event on Saturday, January 26 at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.

The SHOWTIME Championship Boxing broadcast begins live on SHOWTIME beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).

The upcoming fight will be a monumental one in Dallas’ career and personal life, as it will be his chance of achieving his goal of obtaining a title belt, but also his first bout since losing his father to leukemia last November.

“This fight means a lot to me,” the 26-year-old boxer said. “It’s the biggest fight I’ve had. If I win this fight, it takes me to another level.”

Dallas has dedicated the bout to his late father, Mike Dallas, Sr. He has been gruelingly training with Virgil Hunter to prepare for the 30-year-old Matthysse, who was anointed with the interim WBC Light Welterweight Championship belt after beating the undefeated Ajose Olusegun (30-1, 14 KOs) by technical knockout last September.

Nicknamed “The Silent Assassin,” Dallas has incorporated power with his excellent boxing skills and his persistence in wearing down his opponents, which may prove requisite in defeating Matthysse, who has lost his only two bouts by decision.

Dallas isn’t overcomplicating his approach to the fight as the game plan is mapped out by Hunter the 2011 Trainer of the Year. His plan of attack is to remain true to his style of boxing, speed and quickness.

“I’m just going to be myself and box and take advantage of openings,” the Bakersfield, Calif. native said. “I’ll do what I’ve been taught to do and force him to have to make the adjustments as the fight goes on. I’m just going to be smart and fast.”

“I truly believe that Mike can defy the odds against Matthysse,” said Dallas promoter Dan Goossen of Goossen Tutor Promotions. “Fights against the likes of Josesito Lopez and Mauricio Herrera, which I thought he won, prepare you for these opportunities.”

The Matthtsse vs. Dallas fight is being promoted by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Arano Box Promotions and Goossen Tutor Promotions.

For more information visit www.goossentutorpromotions.com and follow up on Twitter at GoossenTutor, keep up with the latest using or becoming a GTP fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoossenTutor.

Former world heavyweight title challenger Manuel Charr returns to action on February 22nd in Galati (Romania). The „Diamond Boy“ will defend his WBC Silver International Championship against 35-year old Turk Yakup Saglam. Saglam was scheduled to fight former world champion Ruslan Chagaev on December 1st in Dusseldorf but Chagaev didn’t show up for the weigh-in.

„Chagaev was scared, that’s why he didn’t come to fight me!“, said Saglam. Felix Sturm who promoted the show in Dusseldorf tried to convince former cruiserweight champion Firat Arslan to jump in as last-minute replacement. But Arslan didn’t want to fight Saglam either so the bout was cancelled.

„That two former world champions refused to fight Yakup Saglam tells you a lot about him and his power“, states Charr. „Chagaev just didn’t show up without any reason. I am not like that. I don’t duck anybody. So here I am giving Saglam the fight he has been waiting for for a long time.“

Saglam won 28 of his 29 professional fights with 25 wins coming by way of knockout. His sole loss was a controversial decision awarded to unbeaten German champion Michael Wallisch in April 2011. „I thank Manuel Charr for giving me the opportunity to fight him“, says Saglam. „I hope that he doesn’t decide to chicken out like Chagaev. I am a warrior, I’ll fight anybody. I promise that I will be in top shape on February 22nd and make Charr regret that he offered me this fight.“

The show in Galati will be promoted by EC Boxing and broadcasted live on Eurosport. Charr who promotes himself is paying all costs for his own fight. „I want to remain active and defend my titles to earn another title shot“, says the „Diamond Boy“. „My only goal is to get my hands on Vitali Klitschko again. I just hope that he doesn’t retire before I get a second chance to take the title from him.“

NEW YORK (JANUARY 21, 2013)—On the heels of Saturday night’s controversial WBO Super Featherweight title bout that saw defending champion Roman Martinez receive a gift draw against Juan Carlos Burgos, Burgos promoters Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing are filing a request to the WBO for an immediate rematch.

The bout saw Burgos batter and get the better of Martinez for the duration of the twelve round fight yet only judge Waleska Roldan had the fight scored in favor of Burgos by a tally of 117-111. Somehow judges Tony Paolillo saw the fight for Martinez 116-112 and John Signorile had the fight even at 114-114.

Even before the scores were announced, the HBO broadcast team called into question about the judges as they had 9 combined title assignments with Signorile working his first title bout ever.

HBO Boxing Analyst Max Kellerman went as far to say to “Keep your eye on Paolillo” before the scores were even announced. Kellerman later said he “should not get an assignment on this level…”

The official punch stats showed a 286-193 advantage for Burgos with a 234-164 tally on power punches

HBO also ran a poll where fans sent in their thoughts on who won the fight and an overwhelming 84% of those who participated believed that Burgos should have been awarded the victory and title.

“Juan Carlos won that fight hands down and this week we will file for an immediate rematch”, said Arthur Pelullo, CEO of Banner Promotions.

Continued Pelullo, “The kid worked hard and should be a world champion this morning. We just hope the WBO agrees with what the whole world saw and does the right thing by granting us this rematch”.

Added Alex Camponovo, General Manager of Thompson Boxing, “The draw left Juan Carlos Burgos completely dejected and angry. We all felt the same way as his dream of becoming a champion turned into a New York nightmare. We hope the WBO does not punish a young man who has given everything to his craft since the age of 10 and joined the pros when he was 16 years old. An immediate rematch should be the only solution to a poor ending and I think Martinez’s people and the champion himself know deep down that he did not do enough to retain the belt.”

Below is a sampling of respected boxing media opinions on the fight:

– Mike Rosenthal of Ring Magazine: “This is what bothers me: Juan Carlos Burgos dreams his entire life of winning a major world championship, which so far had eluded him, and then earns that title by dominating the current champion in the ring. Then a bungling judge steals what should’ve been the greatest night of his career. That’s what happened on Saturday, when Burgos clearly outboxed WBO lightweight titleholder Rocky Martinez but had to settle for a draw because of a horrible split decision. The rogue judge was Tony Paolillo, who somehow scored the fight 116-112 (eight rounds to four) for Martinez. The 114-114 score of John Signorile also is baffling. The biggest punches of the fight were the dozens of punishing body shots landed by Burgos. And, according to punch stats, Burgos landed 93 more overall punches and 70 more power punches than Martinez (286-193 and 234-164). That Paolillo and Signorile somehow failed to see that left Burgos (30-1-1, 20 KOs) on the wrong end of yet another injustice in boxing. Shame.”

– Dan Rafäel of espn.com: 116-112 Burgos. “The 24-year-old Burgos (30-1-1, 20 KOs), however, seemed to carry the better of it. He used a hard, sustained body attack throughout the fight. Of the 234 power shots Burgos landed, 118 were to the body, according to CompuBox statistics. Burgos outlanded Martinez (26-1-2, 16 KOs) in 10 of the 12 rounds”

– Harold Lederman-HBO Judge: 117-111 Burgos. On the broadcast, Lederman was quoted as saying, “Burgos carried this fight. I don’t know how you miss it”

– Doug Fischer of Ring Magazine: I scored 115-113 for Burgos.

-Steve Kim of Maxboxing.com: 116-112 Burgos

-Lem Satterfield of Ring Magazine: 115-113 for Burgos

– Kevin Iole of yahoo.com 115-113 for Burgos

With this much discord, the boxing world deserves redemption for this injustice. Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing eagerly await a response from the World Boxing Organization.

January 21, 2013 – Highly touted undefeated super-featherweight prospect, Joel Diaz Jr. (11-0, 10 KOs) will make his well anticipated return to the ring on February 8, 2013, against Canada’s Tyler Asselstine (12-0, 7 KOs). The 10-round co-feature bout takes place at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. ESPN2 “Friday Night Fights” will televise the show which is promoted by is Yvon Michel’s GYM Promotions in association with Boxing 360.

Having knocked out his last nine opponents, Diaz looks to continue his reign as one of the biggest power punchers in the division. Asselstine will present a stern step up in competition for Diaz, but one he is looking forward to.

“I’ve been training very hard for the last six months waiting for my named to be called and now that time has come,” said Diaz. “I know this will be a fight where I will have to go to my opponents’ backyard and fight him on his homeland. These are the type of fights that can only make me better. I have complete confidence that I will come out victorious against Asselstine.”

Diaz who fights under the promotional banner of Boxing 360, has been training at “The Summit” in Big Bear, California, with his well know trainer Able Sanchez. Together the two have been working diligently on improving all aspects of Joel’s God given attributes.

“Able is a great trainer and he knows what my strengths are,” Diaz stated. “I know if I listen to his instructions I’m going to become a better fighter. He’s trained many well known fighters and I just want to follow the footsteps of those who’ve made it to the top. Right now I’m feeling very comfortable in the ring fighting both on the inside and out. In addition, my stamina is at an all time high as I’m in the best shape of my life. I want to thank my promoter Mario Yagobi and Boxing 360 for giving me this opportunity.”

Boxing 360 expects Joel Diaz Jr. to have a tremendous 2013. Fans can expect Joel to be fighting frequently in the months ahead. For more information on Joel Diaz Jr. please visit www.boxing360.com.

Up until last week Robert Woge (10-0, 9 KOs) did not even know if he was
going to participate on the bill of the European Light Heavyweight
Championship between Eduard Gutknecht and Juergen Braehmer at the
Max-Schmeling-Halle in Berlin on February 2. But not only will the prodigy
of coach Ulli Wegner be part of the night, he will also get his first shot
at a professional title, when he takes on Hakim Zoulikha (18-3, 9 KOs) for
the vacant IBF Intercontinental Title.

Woge, who is known for his spectacular and hugely entertaining style of
fighting, is rewarded for his professional attitude when it comes to
training. “I’m constantly keeping myself in shape. This sport isn’t just my
job it’s also my greatest passion. That is why I kept myself active right
after my last fight against Serhiy Demchenko on November 3. And that showed
during the latest fitness test – I have improved in almost every aspect,”
says the light heavyweight.

The only downside to this opportunity: “It is very unfortunate that I got
this chance because of the injury Yoan Pablo Hernandez sustained. We train
together and he is a friend of mine. But obviously, he couldn’t compete in a
championship fight with a fractured hand. However, I believe that he is
happy that I have now earned myself a shot at a professional title. He will
keep his fingers crossed for me”, said Woge.

The 28-year-old is currently preparing himself for Zoulikha at training camp
in Kienbaum. “I am in great shape. The training got more intense at the
beginning of January. However, I know that I do not have an easy task ahead
of me when I square off with Hakim Zoulikha. His record is good and he has
some victories over tough opposition to his name.” Hence, Woge is counting
on the support of the fans. “I will probably be a bit more nervous than I am
normally as this championship opportunity came out of nowhere. That’s why
the fans are very important. I am hoping that the people in Berlin will
stand firmly behind me.”

Tickets for the big fight night at the Max-Schmeling-Halle in Berlin,
Germany can be purchased at www.boxen.com and www.eventim.de.

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, former Middleweight champion Kelly Pavlik has to decided to retire as he lacks the desire to continue his career and wants to preserve his long term health.

“When you stay in the sport too long you have health problems. That’s a big, big thing for me,” Pavlik said. “I’m not talking about now. I’m talking about in the future. I’m talking about when I’m 55 or 60. What’s gonna happen to me then? Why take any more chances, especially in that sport. It’s a brutal sport and you never know what can happen.

“I won the world title, I defended my title, I was champ for three years and I made good money. Why take the chance of medical problems? That’s a big part of it. I also don’t think the drive is there anymore. I’m moving on to a new chapter in my life.”

“I’ve been a pro for 13 years and doing this since I was 9,” he said. “I go away for two or three months at a time (to train) and I’m tired of leaving my family. It comes to a point where you just don’t want to do that anymore. I put my money away and then with the Ward fight being canceled, well, health and time with my family is more important at this stage, especially with no guaranteed big fight or date.

“I love Kelly. He did a lot of great things. He’s a friend and a great guy to know,” said Pavlik’s manager Cameron Dunkin, who is in New York because his fighter, Miguel Angel “Mikey” Garcia challenges for a featherweight world title against Orlando Salido in Saturday night’s HBO main event. “It was a great experience working with Kelly and I’m very happy for him making his decision.

“All the stuff he accomplished, when people said he couldn’t, when they were down on him earlier in his career and said he would never do anything, I believed in him and knew what he could do. I am so proud of what he accomplished.”

“I had a pretty good career,” Pavlik said. “I was 40-2 and I only lost to two of the best guys, Martinez and Hopkins. I’m content. It’s not like I got knocked out. It’s not like I got knocked out the way Manny Pacquiao got knocked out (in December by Juan Manuel Marquez).

“I’m fine physically. But I feel like why keep pushing the envelope? I made it this long and this far and I have had fights that were tough fights. I got dropped by Jermain Taylor, got dropped earlier in my career. But you constantly take punches and it all adds up. When you’re done, you might have brain problems, you might be punchy, you might develop Parkinson’s. Why push it? I don’t need it and my heart’s not in it anymore. So why take the chances? I’ve been very fortunate up to this point.”

“I know this — if it had been me who pulled out of the Ward fight, I would have been reamed. At this stage, I am just tired of the negativity and comments and a whole bunch of things. But I know people will think I’m drinking and it will be the first thing people go after.”

“I was contemplating it even before the last fight (in July),” Pavlik said. “Then they came up with the Andre Ward fight and I guess I got the motivation back. But I had been thinking about retiring and when the Ward fight fell out, that was icing on the cake for me.”

“For two or three years, she was telling me she wants me to be done. She said when I got to the age of 30, she wanted me to retire, so she backed it,” Pavlik said. “Her biggest fear was long-term (physical) affects of boxing. My parents are behind it. They always said if I am not going into the ring 100 percent mentally ready, they didn’t want me doing it, so they’ve been supportive of it.”

“As of right now, being a fighter and doing this since I was 9 and being at the level I’ve been at, I’m done,” Pavlik said. “Is out of the question would I come back? I can’t say that but then you can’t rule it out. But as of now, it’s legit.”

Deontay Wilder kept his perfect knockout record intact by disposing of Matthew Greer in round two of a scheduled ten round Heavyweight bout.

Wilder dropped Greer from a hard right hand in round two and moments later the fight was ended after a combination put Greer to his knees.

Wilder, 225 lbs of Tuscaloosa, AL is now 27-0 with twenty-seven knockouts. Greer, 240 lbs is now 15-9.

Robinson Castellanos scored a first round stoppage over Edgar Ramirez in a scheduled ten round Featherweight bout.

Castellanos dropped Ramirez with a left hook and a second knockdown was registered from a right hand and the bout was stopped at 1:49 of round one.

Castellanos. 126 lbs of Cumajuato, MX is now 17-9 with eleven knockouts. Ramirez, 124 1/2 lbs of Hermoso, MX is now 13-6

Ivan Morales scored a spectacular one punch knockout over Patricio Camacho in the opening frame of their scheduled eight round Bantamweight bout.

Morales landed a perfect right hook that put Camacho flat on his back and the fight was immediately stopped at Forty-Seven seconds.

Morales, 117.7 lbs of Tijuana, MX is 20-0 with thirteen knockouts. Camacho, 114 lbs of Gusuave. MX is now 16-8-1

In a scheduled six round Middleweight bout, Francisco Reza scored a fourth round stoppage over Roberto Ventura.

Reza is now 11-5 with nine knockouts. Ventura is now 11-7.

Michael Anderson 146 Emmanuel Lartei Lartey 145.5

Derek Webster 164 Darnell Boone 164.5

Ty Yab Beale 246.5 Aaron Kinch 267

Peter Reyes 158 Oscar Pagan 159

Shakir Aquel Dunn 147 Tobias Molina 144

Anthony Jones 157 Issa Coulibaly 161

Maurice Amaro 173 Abdellah Smith 176

Venue: Robert Treat Hotel

Promoter: All Out Promotions

RED BLUE

4Rounds- Heavyweights

Jarrell Miller vs. Joey Dawejko

Brooklyn, NY Philadelphia, PA

4-0, 4 KO’s 7-1-1, 3 KO’s

WT:286 TKS: Black/Silver WT:242.75 TKS: Black/Gold

6 Rounds-Super Featherweights

Chip Perez Jason Sosa

East Hartford, CT Camden, NJ

10-1, 3 KO’s 7-1-3, 3 KO’s

WT:130.25 TKS: Blue/Black/Silver WT:130.75 TKS: Black/Gold

8 Rounds- Super Middleweights

Vladine Biosse vs. Marcus Upshaw

Providence, RI Jacksonville, FL

14-1-1, 7 KO’s 14-8-1, 6 KO’s

WT:167 TKS: White WT:164 TKS: Black/Red

8 Round-Lightweights

Edwin Cotto vs. Ian James

Willimantic, CT Brooklyn, NY

Pro Debut 2-4-1, 1 KO

WT:132.25 TKS: Red/White WT:134 TKS:Black/Red

4RoundsWelterweights

Jimmy Williams vs. Noel Garcia

New Haven, CT Springfield, CT

Pro Debut 2-15-8, 1 KO

WT:153 TKS: Black/Red WT:158 TKS: Black/White

6 Rounds – Bantamweight

Shelito (Michelle) Vincent vs. Nydia Feliciano

New London, CT Bronx, NY

6-0 5-3-3

WT:121.5 TKS: Red/White/Green WT:121 TKS: Yellow/Blue/White

Elvin Ayala (L), Curtis Stevens (R)

Photo Credits: Rich Graessle/Main Events

10 Rounds- NABF Middleweight Title

Elvin Ayala vs. Curtis Stevens

New Haven, CT Brooklyn, NY

26-5-1, 12KO’s 22-3, 16 KO’s

WT:159 TKS:Black/Red WT:159 TKS:Black/Green

Sergey Kovalev (L), Gabriel Campillo (R)

Photo Credits: Rich Graessle/Main Events

10 Rounds – Light Heavyweight

Gabriel Campillo vs. Sergey Kovalev

Madrid, Spain Chelyabinsk, Russia

21-4-1, 7 KO’s 19-0-1, 16 KO’s

WT:175 TKS:White/Red/Black WT:175 TKS: Red/White

BOUTS SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Orlando Salido 126 – Mikey Garcia 125.5
Roman Martinez 129.5 – Juan Carlos Burgos 129

D and D Management Team LLC would like to treat two fans to a free night of boxing on January 26th at Harrah’s Casino Philadelphia being promoted by Joey Eyes Promotion. The first fan that is able to have 25 people like the “DandD Management Team LLC” Facebook page will win two all access credentials to enter the fight and meet the D and D Management Team LLC fighters. Every person that likes the facebook page must inbox D and D to let us know which fan receives the credit.

“THE FAB 4”

Mark Rideout Javontae Starks Alex Sanchez Decarlo Perez

2-0 5-0, 4kos 3-1, 2kos 8-2, 3kos

Special Guest appearance two of D and D Management Team’s “D-Boys”

Todd “2Gunz” Unthank-May & Jesse “Hard Work” Hart

Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing and co-promoter Carlos Gonzalez of Best Boxing are proud to officially announce an historic event in which two Panamanians will face two Filipinos for world titles on the same show on March 16, at the luxury Megapolis Convention Center and Hard Rock Hotel of Panama Avenida Balboa in Panama City.

In the night’s main event, IBF Junior Flyweight Champion Jon Riel Casimero (17-2, 10 KOs) will make the second defense of his belt against hometown hero Luis Alberto “Pan Blanco” Rios (18-1-1, 13 KOs).

22-year-old Casimero won his title in February 2012 in a wild affair in Argentina against Luis Alberto Lazarte, which saw both fighters down multiple times and both fighters losing several points for fouls. The eventual TKO 10 awarded to Casimero sparked one of the worst riots in recent boxing history.

Rios is the IBF’s number one contender in the division. The 22-year-old Panamanian has already held the WBC Latino light flyweight title and successfully defended it once.

And in the co-main event, former two-time world champion Roberto “La Arana” Vasquez (32-5-1, 22 KOs) of Panama will face John Mark “Iceman” Apolinario (17-2-2, 4 KOs) of the Philippines in a rematch for the WBA Interim Bantamweight Championship.

The pair fought to an exciting majority draw for the same title in Colon Entre Rios, Argentina, last November 3. Both say they deserved the victory last time and both are looking to settle it once and for all with this performance.

“I am very proud to be bringing this unforgettable night of boxing to the Panamanian people,” said promoter Lewkowicz. “This show will feature two sensational match-ups for world title belts. The Megapolis Convention Center in Panama City is a beautiful place for a fight and my partner Carlos Gonzalez and I are honored to be able to present it.”

January 18, 2013 – Gary Shaw Productions, in association with Grange Old School Boxing and Black Venom Promotions, are pleased to announce a heavyweight showdown on the undercard to the Mundine vs. Geale world title fight at the Sydney Entertainment Centre, on Wednesday, January 30.

Cult sensation Kimbo Slice, will put his devastating punching power to the ultimate test when he squares off with QLD Heavyweight champion Shane Tilyard.

Kimbo Slice is no stranger to knocking people out. He’s known around the world for his brute strength and granite chin as well as his amazing punching power. One thing you can count on, Kimbo Slice is coming to fight!

“Tilyard thinks he’s been in the ring with tough guys but he’s never been in there with a monster like me,” stated Kimbo Slice. “He better be ready because I’m coming to knock his head off and show the fans of Australia who the real KO King is.”

Tilyard overcame some formidable opposition including former kickboxing world champion Nathan ‘Carnage’ Corbett and NRL star turned boxer John Hopoate to claim the KO Kimbo competition and earn the right to fight former UFC star Kimbo Slice.

The 27 year-old from Brisbane is a knock-out specialist, setting the scene for what is certain to be one of the most explosive heavyweight bouts ever seen on Australian shores.

All six of Tilyard’s professional wins have come by way of knock out, including a stunning demolition of former Australian Heavyweight champion Colin Wilson last year.

“I’ve been training the house down since I heard about this competition and I’m delighted to be given the opportunity to show Kimbo a thing or two about fighters in Australia”. Tilyard said.

“Kimbo has a big reputation, but he has never fought anyone in a backyard, Octagon or boxing ring that has my power.”

“I’ve seen his clips on You Tube and I can tell you there will be another one very soon of me putting Kimbo on his backside once and for all”.

Today’s announcement rounds out a blockbuster card that will feature some of the most exciting prospects in Australian boxing.

Undefeated cruiserweight David Aloua will square off with Newcastle’s Daniel Aman for the Australian Cruiserweight Title.

Unbeaten contender, Joel Brunker will look to continue his rapid rise up the Featherweight rankings when he takes on Mexican Joksan Hernandez.

Former world title contender Jamie Pittman looks set for an epic showdown with Zak Awad, Cowra’s Steve Lovett will do battle with Joel Casey in a light heavyweight contest while Lauryn Eagle will round out the card when she takes on Nadine Browne.

Daniel Geale, Kimbo Slice and Joel Brunker are all promoted by Gary Shaw and are guaranteed to bring the fans to their feet with their electrifying styles.

Tickets for Mundine v Geale II are still available through www.ticketmaster.com.au

MAIN EVENT will broadcast the entire card live and exclusive from 7:30pm AEDT. Book now through www.mainevent.com.au

Bobby Hitz, the “Godfather of Chicago Boxing” will return on Friday, February 15, 2013, with his own version of a St. Valentine’s Day massacre in the form of another of his jam-packed nights of old-school professional boxing at the Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, Indiana.

Fresh off an extended recurring role on the Fox series Mob Doctor where he played right hand man to the mob boss played by William Forsythe, Hitz will continue his series of Horseshoe boxing shows that are known for consistently delivering all-action fights to the sold-out crowds who flock to this Indiana casino just 20 minutes outside Chicago.

The first main event of the year will feature the rematch of an explosive war held last November at this very same venue, as Chicago (via Lithuania) middleweight Donatas Bondorovas (16-3-1, 5 KOs) will once again face Evansville, Indiana’s “King” David Thomas (10-3-2, 8 KOs) in an eight-round battle.

In their first encounter, Bondorovas had to get off the floor and survive several shaky moments before storming back to win via a come-from-behind (and some would say early) stoppage in round two. Plenty of doubt remains and both fighters are eager to do it again and prove their superiority once and for all.

Several Chicagoland favorites are scheduled to appear in supporting bouts including Chicago’s red-hot undefeated Dimar “Strongman” Ortuz (7-0, 5 KOs), who will go six rounds in the cruiserweight division. Ortuz is coming off back-to-back sensational victories at the Horseshoe over then-undefeated opponents Donta Woods and Terry Martin.

Also returning for a six-rounder is wildly popular Chicago super middleweight prospect Mike “Hollywood” Jimenez (8-0, 5 KOs), who is fresh off his very impressive stoppage of former world title challenger Antwun Echols last November at the Horseshoe. Jimenez will fight twice this month and is looking to have a breakout year in 2013.

In matches already finalized, Hammond, Indiana’s own heavyweight powerhouse David Martin III (6-0-1, 5 KOs) is coming back for a six-rounder against Chicago tough guy Felix Abner (3-2, 2 KOs); and 21-year-old Rockford, Illinois, lightweight Anthony Linenfelser (3-3, 3 KOs) will bring his brand of excitement to bear against explosive Chicago native Russell “Rocky” Fiore (6-2-1, 6 KOs) in a four-rounder.

In another six-round bout, talented Hitz Boxing prospect Prenice Brewer (16-3-1, 6 KOs) will return to action in a welterweight match-up.

Popular locals also featured in four-round fights will be junior welterweight Genaro Mendez (5-1-1, 3 KOs); pro super flyweight and former National Jr. Olympic Champion Johnny “WiteBoi” Determan (5-0, 4 KOs) from Nebraska, as well as the other heavily decorated Chicago-based amateur he is on a collision course with: 21-year-old super flyweight prospect Adan Ortiz (5-0, 4 KOs); welterweight “Irish” Jimmy Murphy (1-0, 1 KO) and the second fight of welterweight Nick Ramirez (0-0-1).

All opponents not specified will be announced shortly.

The high-class atmosphere and luxurious surroundings the Horseshoe has to offer make their boxing shows a Las Vegas-style night of boxing that Chicago-area fans don’t have to get on a plane to enjoy.
The Horseshoe Casino has an intimate, comfortable venue with luxurious seats, a spectacular gaming area, free parking, exquisite food and all the amenities — and is just 20 minutes from Downtown Chicago.

Tickets are priced at $90 Ringside & $40 Orchestra and available at all Ticketmaster outlets and ticketmaster.com.

On fight night, doors open 6:30 pm and the action starts at 7:30.

All bouts are subject to change.

NEW YORK (January 17, 2013) — The final press conference took place today at The Garden for Saturday’s World Championship Triple Header at the Theater at Madison Square Garden broadcast Live on HBO®.

Quotes follow…

FELIX VERDEJO (highlights of the 2012 Puerto Rico Olympian’s fight will be shown during the broadcast): This a great opportunity for me, to fight at Madsion Square Garden. Great Puerto Rican fighters that I followed as a kid have fought here. This is my first time fighting here and this is only the beginning. I hope this is the first of many to come.

JUAN CARLOS BURGOS: I am ready and confident for the fight on Saturday night. This was the best training camp of my career. I know I am fighting a Puerto Rican warrior. But like many who have come before me, I am a warrior also, a Mexican warrior. I will take this title back to Mexico where it belongs. I will be the first Mexican of 2013 to win a world championship.

PETER RIVERA (Roman Martinez’ co-promoter from Perto Rico): Rocky Martinez is Puerto Rico’s only current world champion. Everyone in Puerto Rico will be watching

ROMAN “Rocky” MARTINEZ: This is a great opportunity for me to fight at Madison Square Garden, where many of the great Puerto Rican champions have fought. I look to carry the torch and retain the title. Puerto Rico has a great boxing history and we will continue that. I prepared very well for this fight – it was the best camp ever and I am 100% ready for this fight. I prepared for twelve rounds. The man who prepared the best will win the fight.

BIILY BRISCOE (Gabriel Rosado Trainer): We were the mandatory challenger to junior middleweight champion k9 Buddrage, but we didn’t think twice about taking this fight. We are old school. We want to fight the best. Golovkin is the undefeated world champion, but you can’t let the man’s reputation beat you, you have to make the man beat you. Golovkin is the real deal but all fighters are beatable and we believe we have the plan. We are going tow in the fight. I don’t want to predict the round, but it’s not going to go the distance.

GABRIEL ROSADO: I turned down the opportunity to fight K9 for the world title. I took this fight because it is higher risk, higher reward. I know this guy is really good and has the will to win, but so do I.

GENNADY GOLOVKIN: Very excited to be fighting at Madison Square Garden which has always been a dream of mine. I’m happy to once again fight on HBO and ready to perform at a very high level. I’m glad that Gabriel accepted this opportunity and I wish him luck on Saturday night. ‘I’m prepared for anything Gabriel brings to the fight. Thanks to HBO and Madison Square Garden for their support.”

ROBERT GARCIA (Former world champion, brother and trainer of Mikey Garcia): Madison Square Garden is one of the great places to be. Mikey is in great shape. We had a great training camp. We know we are going up against the best featherweight int he world.

MIKEY GARCIA: It is going to be a great show on Saturday night. It is a great roster from top to bottom. I am very excited for the opportunity that is ahead of me. I plan to win the championship on Saturday night in a fight that i want people to never forget. This fight will leave a lasting impression on the boxing world for years to come.

FERNANDO BELTRAN (Salido co-promoter): My figher is 39-11 and the best featherweight in the world. When he defended his title against Juan Manuel Lopez on March 10, it probably should have been fight-of-the-year, but it was on the wrong network so that’s why we probably didn’t get it. He knocked Juan Manuel out and ruined his plans.

ORLANDO SALIDO: We always want to fight the best fighters in the world and one of them is right in front of us. He is a different type of fighter than I am and I know it will be a difficult fight. This fight is one that will be a war in the ring.

ORLANDO “Siri” SALIDO will defend his World Boxing Organization (WBO) featherweight title against undefeated No. 1 contender MIKEY GARCIA; undefeated World Boxing Association (WBA) / International Boxing Organization (IBO) middleweight champion GENNADY “GGG” GOLOVKIN will look to extend his reign into its third year against world-rated contender “King”GABRIEL ROSADO; and two-time WBO junior lightweight champion ROMAN “Rocky” MARTINEZ will put it all on the line when he goes mano a mano with No. 1 contender JUAN CARLOS “Mini” BURGOS. All three fights will be televised live on HBO Boxing After Dark®, Saturday, January 19, beginning at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT.

These six warriors have a combined record of 170-18-3 (123 KOs) — a winning percentage of 89% and a victory by knockout ratio of 72%.

Promoted by Top Rank® and K2 Promotions, in association with Tecate and Madison Square Garden, remaining tickets, priced at $200, $100, $50 and $25, are currently available for purchase at the Madison Square Garden Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster charge by phone (866-858-0008) and online at www.ticketmaster.com orwww.thegarden.com

For fight updates go to www.toprank.com or www.hbo.com/boxing.

UNCASVILLE, Conn. (Jan. 17, 2013) – Elvin Ayala had no idea he’d be fighting for a title this weekend until he stepped foot inside Mohegan Sun Casino for Thursday’s pre-fight press conference. The sudden news has done little to change his approach.

“I’ve been training hard regardless,” said Ayala (26-5-1, 12 KOs), the New Haven, Conn., native who will face New York’s Curtis Stevens (22-3, 16 KOs) for the North American Boxing Federation (NABF) middleweight title Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013 in the nationally-televised co-feature of NBC Sports’ Fight Night series.

“For years, I’ve been talking about trying to get the beast out. Well, today it’s out. You’re going to see a different me on Saturday night.”

Saturday’s show, which is co-promoted by Main Events and Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment & Sports, also features the 10-round main event between No. 3-ranked light heavyweight Sergey Kovalev (19-0-1, 17 KOs) of Russia and former world champion Gabriel Campillo (21-4-1, 8 KOs) of Spain. The live telecast will begin 9 p.m. ET on the NBC Sports Network.

Stevens, a former title contender from Brownsville, represents Ayala’s toughest test since facing David Lemieux in 2010. Since then, Ayala has won six consecutive bouts to rise to No. 9 in the World Boxing Council (WBC) middleweight rankings, so fighting for a title Saturday night is “just a bonus.”

“Right now, I’m bubbling. I’ve got a lot going through my mind,” Ayala said. “I know my opponent is trying to stop me from eating and stop my children from eating. He’s a strong opponent, but I’ve been in there with the best.

“There was no Christmas, no New Year’s and no birthday for me,” added Ayala, who turned 32 on Tuesday. “It’s just been training, so I know when I go in there Saturday night I’ll be 100 percent.”

Stevens, initially irked when Ayala said he was “no Arthur Abraham” – a reference to Ayala’s world-title bout against Abraham in 2008 – will face an additional challenge Saturday night in front of the Mohegan Sun crowd, which figures to be pro-Ayala.

“The fight may be in his backyard, but on Saturday night he’ll be in my house,” Stevens said.

“I feel great. I had two years off [after losing to Jesse Brinkley in 2010], which gave me a lot of time to think. Before I was partying a lot, and not really focusing on boxing. The loss to Brinkley might’ve been the best thing that happened to me. I’ve been through a lot, but come Saturday night I’ll be ready to climb to the top. The crowd won’t bother me; in the ring it’s my house. There won’t be much he can do with a wild beast on him.

“And whether I’m fighting for a title or not, I’ve got to win. I’ve got no choice.”

Added Ayala: “Unless [the crowd] can come in there with me and hold him down while I punch him, it won’t help me win the fight. If I’m not moving, slipping and using combinations, all the screaming in the world won’t help me. I appreciate the support – I always do – but I need to focus on what I need to do to win. He’s a strong opponent, and whether he’s happy, mad or neutral, I know he’s coming to beat me.”

The main event promises major fireworks as the Russian Kovalev looks to move one step closer toward challenging for a world title in the light heavyweight division.

“Right after we signed him, the first thing he asked me was how soon he could fight for a world title, not how many tune-up fights he could have,” said Main Events president Kathy Duva. “He’s really, really ready. This is a make-or-break fight for both of them. With a win, Sergey would be making a statement that he is, in fact, one of the best light heavyweights in the division.”

Since fighting to a draw against Grover Young in 2011, Kovalev has won each of his last three fights by knockout, including a third-round knockout win over Lionell Thompson in September.

“I’ll do my best to put on a great show,” Kovalev said. “You won’t regret spending your money.”

“He only has one thing on his mind,” added Kovalev’s trainer, Egis Klimas, “and that’s to become a world champion. He’s here to prove it on Saturday night.”

Campillo is looking to make one more run at championship glory. From 2009 to 2010, he held the World Boxing Association (WBA) light heavyweight title, defending the belt once against Beibut Shumenov before losing the rematch – and the title – by split decision in January of 2010. Campillo also challenged for the International Boxing Federation (IBF) light heavyweight title in February, but lost a narrow split-decision to Tavoris Cloud.

“This is an important fight for me,” Campillo said. “I’ve been training really hard for this. When you come to see me, you’re coming to see a great fight.”

The undercard includes an eight-round super middleweight showdown between Vladine Biosse (14-1-1, 7 KOs) of Providence, R.I., and Marcus Upshaw (14-8-2, 6 KOs) of Jacksonville, Fla., and a six-round female bantamweight bout between undefeated Shelito Vincent (6-0) of Providence (New London, Conn.) and Bronx native Nydia Feliciano (5-3-3).

Hartford, Conn., super featherweight Joseph “Chip” Perez (10-3, 1 KO) will face Jason Sosa (7-1-3, 3 KOs) of Camden, N.J., in a six-round bout; Brooklyn’s Ian James (2-4-1, 1 KO) will battle newcomer Edwin Cotto of Willimantic, Conn., in a four-round lightweight bout; and unbeaten heavyweight Jarrell Miller (4-0, 4 KOs) of New York will face Philadelphia’s Joey Dawejko (7-1-1, 3 KOs) in a four-round bout. New Haven newcomer Jimmy Williams will make his professional debut in a four-round welterweight bout against Springfield, Mass., veteran Noel Garcia (2-15-2, 1 KO). Tickets are priced at $40 and $125 and can be purchased by calling TicketMaster at 1-800-745-3000 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.

January 17, 2013 – On Saturday January 19th, live from the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, Connecticut, undefeated heavyweight Jarrell Miller (4-0 4 KOs) will face off against Joey Dawejko (7-1-1 3 KOs) of Philadelphia in a scheduled 4 rounder. The fight will be part of the NBC Sports Networks televised lineup, which includes the main event between Gabriel Campillo and Sergey Kovalev.

Miller is a flamboyant fighter with a big personality to go along with his big right hand. Miller has accumulated 4 KO/TKO victories in his 4 professional fights as a boxer, although he also maintains an undefeated record as a kick boxer, competing in some past K-1 events. Miller stands 6’4″ and he will enjoy a 6 inch height advantage in this matchup.

Dawejko will be a step up in competition for Miller and with the fight being televised on NBC Sports Network the scene is set perfectly for Miller to showcase his brand of fighting.

“I’m going to take full advantage of this opportunity to be on TV and I plan on making a lot of new fans,” Miller said. “I’m going to put a new spin on the heavyweight division and I think people will appreciate my outlook, so plan on getting familiar with me. I know what I’m capable of doing, it’s everyone else that is unfamiliar with my talents and I plan on taking everyone to school on January 19th.”

NEW YORK – January 17, 2013 – NBC Sports Group continues its Fight Night series, Saturday at 9 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network, with a main event featuring Gabriel “Chico Guapo” Campillo (21-4-1, 7 KO’s) of Madrid, Spain vs. Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev (19-0-1, 16 KO’s) of Ft. Lauderdale Fla., at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, Conn. The Fight Night telecast on Saturday will be the first 2013 edition of the popular nationally televised boxing series.

Former light heavyweight world champion Campillo, rated No. 3 in the world by the IBF, takes on Kovalev rated No. 10 in the world by the WBC and No. 14 by the IBF, in a 10-round light heavyweight bout.

In the co-feature bout, Elvin Ayala (26-5-1, 12 KO’s) of New Haven, Conn., steps in to the ring against Curtis Stevens (22-3, 16 KO’s) of Brooklyn, NY., in a 10-round middleweight bout.

NBC Sports Group’s Fight Night broadcast team of Kenny Rice (play-by-play), Hall-of-Fame boxing trainer Freddie Roach (analyst), cruiserweight contender B.J. Flores (analyst) and Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix (reporter) will call the action.

2013 NBC SPORTS GROUP FIGHT NIGHT SCHEDULE

(All times ET and subject to change)

Saturday, Jan., 19
9 p.m. ET
NBC Sports Network
Mohegan, CT

Saturday, Feb., 23
10:30 p.m. ET
NBC Sports Network
TBA

Saturday, Mar., 9
10 p.m. ET
NBC Sports Network
TBA

Saturday, June 14
9 p.m. ET
NBC Sports Network
TBA

FIGHT NIGHT FUTURE STARS

Rising four- and six-round fighters will get their chance to shine when NBC Sports Group and Main Events present Fight Night Future Stars, a one-hour program that will highlight the performances of developing undercard fighters on the regular NBC Sports Network Fight Night presentations.

“Boxing fans will now get the chance to see up-and-coming talent through our Fight Night Future Stars telecasts,” said Jon Miller, President Programming, NBC Sports and NBC Sports Network. “Up until now, the only way to watch the development ofthis kind of talent was to attend the live fights. Now, the most promising young performers will get the chance to showcase their talents to a national audience.”

The first Fight Night Future Stars telecast will feature taped performances from the upcoming Saturday, January 19th NBC Sports Network Fight Night card, which will take place at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, CT. The action will be called by Fight Night talent, Kenny Rice and B.J. Flores.

“Fight Night has provided a launching pad for many of the young men who appeared on our programs in 2012,” said promoter Kathy Duva of Main Events. “Gabriel Rosado and Zab Judah enhanced their careers through the Fight Night series on NBC Sports Network and are now scheduled for world title bouts in the first quarter of 2013. The addition of Future Stars will simply create more opportunities for the many talented fighters who have yet to gain national television exposure.”

Telecast dates and times for the Fight Night Future Stars series will be forthcoming.

About Fight Night: NBC Sports Network’s Fight Night series is collaboration between NBC Sports Group, Main Events and Hall of Fame matchmaker J Russell Peltz. The series premiered on January 21, 2012 and featured six original telecasts on NBC Sports Network and one broadcast on NBC. In 2013, a total of seven original telecasts will air on NBC Sports Network and NBC.

– NBC Sports Group –

ABOUT JANUARY 19 FIGHTS

Tickets are priced at $125 and $40 can be purchased through Ticketmaster 1-800-745-3000. Ticketmaster Link to January 19 NBCSN Fight Night at Mohegan Sun. For ADA accessible sales, call Mohegan Sun Box Office 1-800-862-8499.

Eight bouts are planned for the January 19 card to be held at Mohegan Sun Arena, 1 Mohegan Sun Boulevard Uncasville, CT. Doors open at 6:00PM. First fight is at 6:30PM.

Sergey Kovalev, 19-0-1, 17 KOs, takes on Gabriel Campillo, 21-4-1, 8 KOs, in an international 10-round light heavyweight main event. In the co-feature, Elvin Ayala, 26-5-1, 12 KO’s, battles Curtis Stevens, 22-3, 16 KO’s, in a 10-round middleweight contest.

The card is promoted by Main Events and Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment Sports in association with Peltz Boxing, and Sampson Boxing.

To find the location of the NBC Sports Network on your local cable, satellite or IPTV provider, click here: http://www.nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/30092015/ns/sports/

Tweet the link to NBC Sports Network Fight Night channel finder: bit.ly/175UuU

Twitter: #FightNight Twitter: @main_events @NBCSN

SAN DIEGO, CA –January 17- WealthTV has secured the live telecast rights to the highly popular and fast paced Prizefighter: The Welterweights III, scheduled for January19th at 3 PM EST. The boxing extravaganza features eight rising Welterweights, all fighting in one evening in three round single eliminator bouts. The crowned winner will need to survive three different opponents to be crowned the champion for the evening.

“This fast-paced format is great for boxing fans. It’s action packed and an all-out war in the ring,” said WealthTV’s director of live events Tommy Morris. “Previous Prizefighter events have helped discover some of the world’s best fighters. It’s a must watch for boxing fans.”

The level of talent for Prizefighter: The Welterweights III is at an all-time high. Six of the eight fighters are undefeated, namely Calum Cooper, Sam Eggington, Dale Evens, Glenn Foot, Chad Gaynor, and Steven Pearce. They will be joined by two proven top opponents with impressive records Rob Hunt (16W-1L-2D) and Mark Thompson (24-2).

“This will be a life changing moment for one of these fighters,” Added Morris. “This is their chance to rise up from anonymity and make names for themselves.”

The Prizefighter series started in 2008, since then there have been twenty-seven different installments spanning over fourteen different weight classes from Super Bantamweight to Heavyweight.

Past tournament champions include heavyweight Audley Harrison, who earned a WBA world title shot after his Prizefighter victory, #2 WBA lightweight contender Gavin Rees, and WBC #4 bantamweight contender Lee Haskins.

WealthTV will also air Prizefighter: Light Middleweights III on Thursday, January 17th.

All of WealthTV’s fights can be seen on WealthTV nationally on Verizon FiOS TV channel 169 and 669 in HD, AT&T U-Verse TV channels 470 and 1470 in HD, along with over 100 cable systems across the country as well as on line viewing on numerous connected devices and via www.wealthtv.com.
About WealthTV
WealthTV is the premier lifestyle and entertainment network —the destination for exclusive and original programming, simultaneously transmitted in high definition and standard definition. WealthTV delivers to informative shows to its viewers, providing invaluable insights on what every American dreams of – from travel secrets to fast cars, from outrageous homes to live events, and much more. The network fills a television vacuum by delivering intellectually stimulating, thought-provoking entertainment and always-unbiased news from an insider’s perspective. For more information, please visit www.wealthtv.com

Toronto, Canada – UFC® welterweight champion Georges St-Pierre has posted an impressive 10-fight win streak during his reign atop the 170-pound division. On Saturday, March 16, he will look to extend that streak by one more as he steps back into the Octagon® in his hometown to face former STRIKEFORCE® champion Nick Diaz at Montreal’s Bell Centre. On the heels of unifying the welterweight title in November 2012 after an 18-month absence due to injury, St-Pierre (23-2) requested the fight against his fiery rival Diaz (27-8-1, fighting out of Stockton, California), telling UFC President Dana White it was “unfinished business.” Diaz agreed.

The Ultimate Fighting Championship® will host a press conference on January 23 in Montreal with the main event stars, as tickets for UFC® 158: ST-PIERRE vs. DIAZ go on sale to the general public on Saturday, January 26 at 12 p.m. ET at evenko.ca and the Bell Centre box office.

In a compelling welterweight co-main event, Rory MacDonald (14-1, fighting out of Montreal, Canada) will get his shot at redemption as he aims to avenge his only career loss against former interim UFC welterweight champion Carlos Condit (28-6, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.). The duo met at UFC 115 in a Fight of the Night bout that saw Condit come from behind and register a TKO win with seconds remaining in the third round. MacDonald comes into the fight after a dominant decision win over UFC legend BJ Penn at UFC on FOX 5 in December. Meanwhile, Condit looks to re-establish his prominence at 170 pounds after an incredible battle with St-Pierre in November.

Completing the welterweight triple-header on the main card, power-punching wrestler Johny Hendricks (14-1, fighting out of Dallas, Texas) meets former US Marine Jake Ellenberger (28-6, fighting out of Lake Forest, Calif. by way of Omaha, Neb.) in a bout with title implications. The hard-hitting Hendricks is confident of his standing in the 170-pound division and looks to add a sixth consecutive win on March 16 to solidify his place as number one contender.

In addition to Montreal’s St-Pierre and MacDonald, six other Canadians will step into the Octagon® at UFC 158 including Calgary’s Nick Ring (13-1) who faces middleweight Chris Camozzi (18-5, fighting out of Lakewood, Colo.) on the main card. Ring was originally scheduled to face Costa Philippou at UFC 154 but had to withdraw at the last minute due to an illness. Camozzi has won three straight, earning his last win via unanimous decision over Luiz Cane.

Making his debut at welterweight, hometown favorite Patrick Côté (19-8) will square off against former STRIKEFORCE fighter Bobby Voelker (24-8, fighting out of Kansas City, Kan.) who will be making his UFC debut. Côté is coming off a disqualification win against middleweight Alessio Sakara at UFC 154, while Voelker comes in on a three-fight win streak.

Other Canadians in action are Jordan Mein (26-8, fighting out of Lethbridge, Alberta) who will make his UFC debut against veteran Dan Miller (16-6, 1 NC, fighting out of Whippany, N.J.), while Toronto’s Sean Pierson (13-6) battles welterweight Rick Story (14-6, fighting out of Vancouver, Wash.), Montreal’s John Makdessi (9-2) returns against Daron Cruickshank (12-2, fighting out of Detroit, Mich.) and Montreal’s Yves Jabouin (18-8) challenges bantamweight Johnny Eduardo (26-9, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil).

Additional bouts for UFC 158 will be announced in the days to come at www.ufc.com.

Tickets for UFC® 158: ST-PIERRE vs. DIAZ go on sale Saturday, January 26 at 12 p.m. ET and are priced at $600, $350, $250, $200, $165, $115 and $85. Tickets will be available at the Bell Centre box office, by phone at (514) 790-2525 / 1-877-668-8269 or at www.evenko.ca.

UFC® Fight Club™ members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets to this event on Thursday, January 24 at 10 a.m. ET via the website ufcfightclub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers on Friday, January 25, starting at 10 a.m. ET. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

UFC® 158: ST-PIERRE vs. DIAZ 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.

For more information or current fight news, visit www.ufc.com. All bouts live and subject to change.

Media looking for accreditation for UFC® 158 in Montreal on March 16 must fill out the online form at https://cervello.ufc.com/signup/UFC158. The application deadline is Thursday, February 14.

UFC® 158: ST-PIERRE vs. DIAZ PRESS CONFERENCE – OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

WHEN: Wednesday, January 23 – 10 a.m. (media check starts at 9 a.m.)

WHERE: Bell Centre, 1909 Avenue des Canadiens-de-Montréal, Montréal

WHO: Georges St-Pierre, UFC® Welterweight Champion

Nick Diaz, UFC® Welterweight contender

Tom Wright, Director of UFC® Operations: Canada, Australia and New Zealand

NOTE: *This press conference will also be streamed live on UFC.com. Fans are to use the Bell Centre main entrance (doors at 9:30 a.m.) while media are to use the press entrance off of Sainte Antoine Street West.

About the Ultimate Fighting Championship®

Universally recognized for its action-packed, can’t-miss events that have sold out some of the biggest arenas and stadiums across the globe, the UFC® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts (MMA) organization. Owned and operated by Zuffa, LLC, headquartered in Las Vegas and with offices in London, Toronto and Beijing, UFC produces more than 30 live events annually and is the largest pay-per-view event provider in the world. In 2012, the UFC burst into the mainstream with a landmark seven-year broadcast agreement with FOX Sports Media Group. The agreement includes four live events broadcast on the FOX network annually, with additional fight cards and thousands of hours of programming broadcast on FOX properties FX and FUEL TV. This also includes the longest-running sports reality show on television, The Ultimate Fighter®, which now airs on FX.

In addition to its reach on FOX, UFC programming is broadcast in over 145 countries and territories, to nearly 800 million TV households worldwide, in 30 different languages. UFC content is also distributed commercially in the United States to bars and restaurants through Joe Hand Promotions, in English throughout Canada via Premium Sports Broadcasting Inc. and Australia via Main Event and in French throughout Quebec via Interbox. The UFC also connects with tens of millions of fans through its website, UFC.com, as well as social media sites Facebook and Twitter. UFC President Dana White is considered one of the most accessible and followed executives in sports, with over two million followers on Twitter. Ancillary UFC businesses include best-selling DVDs, an internationally distributed magazine, UFC.TV offering live event broadcasts and video on demand around the world, the best-selling UFC Undisputed® video game franchise distributed by THQ, and a new franchise in development with EA, UFC GYM®, UFC Fight Club affinity program, UFC Fan Expo® festivals, branded apparel and trading cards.

SHELTON, Washington) – Little Creek Casino Resort in association with Roy Englebrecht Promotions is proud to present “Fight Club at Little Creek Casino Resort” – 26 scheduled rounds of live, boxing excitement! The first bout will begin at 7pm on February 23, 2013 in the Skookum Creek Event Center at Little Creek Casino Resort.

Following his stirring career-defining win over Yohan Banks in December, undefeated Washington state heavyweight talent Vincent Thompson will be back in the ring looking for his 13 straight victory facing Harvey Jolly in the Main Event on the inaugural Fight Club show announced by Little -Creek Casino Resort.

12-0 Vincent Thompson (Pictured Above)

The five bout card will feature 26 rounds of pro boxing action showcasing some of the best young boxing talent, both male and female, Washington state has to offer, along with the state’s first Dual Ring Card Girls, making the Skookum Creek Event Center the place to be in 2013 for boxing and sports fans.

“I was thrilled when Little-Creek CEO Michael Starr contacted me about creating a boxing series at Little-Creek, as I have known Michael for several years when he was a Casino executive in Las Vegas,” said Englebrecht. “What made it that much better is the Michael is a huge fight fan and will demand that all our Fight Club shows be the best in the Northwest, and I think we have accomplished that with our first show on February 23rd.”

Federal Way’s 29 year old Vince Thompson may be only three or four wins away from making some noise in the heavyweight division and now that he has signed a long term promotional contract with Roy Englebrecht Promotions, Washington area fight fans will see a lot more of Vince’s climb up the heavyweight ratings where he is presently ranked #32 by the WBC. Under the coaching of Sam DiTusa and Cal Thompson the future is now for Vince and he is up to the task as he faces tough Harvey Jolley out of Detroit in the February 23rd Fight Club Main Event. Jolley will bring a 13-19 record to the show with seven knockouts, but is coming off a big win over undefeated 10-0 Brian Howard last December.

In another showcase fight, Tacoma’s 10-0 super middleweight sensation Mike Gavronski will be looking to keep the string alive when he meets Tennessee tough guy Nathan Bedwell. With eight knockout wins, Gavronski is becoming the “Rocky of the Northwest”, and he will need it all against Bedwell who might be the toughest 5-10 guy in boxing, going the distance against contenders like 17-4 Maxell Taylor 21-2 Gary Jones and losing a split decision to 21-2 Mike Paschall. This will be a Fight Club war!

And the females will also be featured in the 1,300 seat Skookum Creek Event Center as Lynnwood’s 4-4 Tammie “The Tasmanian Devil” Johnson will be back in action taking on tough Gloria Ramirez out of Southern California in a welterweight matchup. This fight could steal the show as both girls are evenly matched. Johnson is a dual athlete as she also plays for the Everett Myst female semi pro football team.

Kent’s Isaac Tadeo returns to his roots with a perfect 3-0 record and will have a ton of fans cheering him on as he fight back in Washington for the first time in a year. Tadeo who has knocked out all three of his opponents has the tools to become a solid prospect in the junior middleweight division, and he will be going for win number four facing Carl Hill out of Los Angeles.

Voted Best Casino in the South Sound, Little Creek Casino Resort is known for its wide array of games including a vast mix of state of the art slot machines, and all of your favorite table games. During your stay enjoy luxury resort accommodations, first class entertainment, delicious dining and all around excellent customer service. Little Creek Casino Resort is located in the great Pacific Northwest at the gateway to the Olympic Peninsula in Shelton, Washington just minutes north of Olympia on Highway 101.

Tickets for Opening Night of Fight Club at Little-Creek Casino Resort and priced from $60 to $30 can be purchased online at www.little-creek.com.