Wasserman Boxing in association with Probellum was proud to present today’s final press conference ahead of the IBO World light heavyweight championship showdown between local hero Leon Bunn and hard-hitting Irishman Padraig McCrory. The world title showdown will take place this Saturday, October 22, at the Fabriksporthalle in Frankfurt, Germany. 

LEON BUNN: “I feel great and I’m glad to be here in Frankfurt, in my hometown, to fight for a world title. I’m happy that Wasserman made this a reality. I’ve trained hard for this fight. I’m always in training because I always hoped that an opportunity like this would come across. I gave it my all in camp with Conny these last weeks and I am sure that all the work we’ve done will result in victory on Saturday night. I will do everything I can to win that belt.”

PADRAIG MCCRORY: “This is a fantastic opportunity for me. Leon Bunn is a great fighter, but I’ve come here to win that world title. Traveling doesn’t matter to me, my Irish fans will make for an atmosphere like we’d be fighting at home.”

KALLE SAUERLAND, Global Head of Boxing at Wasserman: “It’s great to be back in Germany and to present a world title fight in Germany. This is a true 50/50 fight between two unbeaten fighters with a combined record of 32 wins and no defeats. In boxing, there’s this saying that you don’t want your fighter in the ring against a Mexican or an Irish fighter. But when it’s about a world title, no matter from which organization, you don’t get to choose. You have to take the opportunity that’s presented to you. I’m very confident that Leon will win on Saturday, he’s not just representing himself and his family, but all of Germany. We can expect a cauldron on Saturday in Frankfurt.”

CONNY MITTERMEIER, trainer of Leon Bunn: “We’ve been training for three months, Leon is giving it his all each and every day. He excelled at even the hardest of training sessions. But that’s the path you have to walk when you are fighting for a world title, there are no shortcuts. Leon is in great shape and I’m sure that we will be successful on Saturday.”

JAMIE CONLAN, Team Padraig McCrory: “Camp was brillant. Paddy is an incredible success story in Irish boxing, he is stronger than ever before. You can compare him to a good bottle of wine, he’s getting better with age. He’s stronger, he’s found himself as a fighter and as person. It will be the ultimate test on Saturday night. Obviously, everyone at Wasserman is sure of their man, but I am sure that Paddy will win this fight. He’s got the power in both hands, he’s in incredible shape. Saturday night will be fireworks and a great show for all the fans!”

Leftover tickets for the IBO World light heavyweight championship between Leon Bunn and Padraig McCrory on October 22 at the Fabriksporthalle in Frankfurt, Germany, are on sale via Eventim and can also be acquired at the box office on the night of the fight.

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You can download the full fight card for Saturday night using the following link: WASSERMAN BOXING IN FRANKFURT – FIGHT CARD

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The official weigh-in for Bunn vs. McCrory will take place at the Dorint Parkhotel Frankfurt/Bad Vilbel, Niddastraße 1, 61118 Bad Vilbel, tomorrow at 4pm local time. 

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. – October 20, 2022 – Cleveland’s fast-rising blue-chip prospect Isaiah Steen (16-0, 12 KOs) and dangerous power-puncher Sena Agbeko (26-2, 21 KOs), representing Nashville, Tenn., both made weight at Thursday’s official weigh-in a day ahead of their 10-round super middleweight main event on SHOBOX: The New Generation tomorrow night, Friday, October 21 live on SHOWTIME as the prospect developmental series returns to Bally’s Atlantic City Casino & Resort, the site of the first SHOBOX^® 21 years ago, for the second time in two months.

In the co-feature, perennial spoiler and SHOBOX alum Marquis Taylor (12-1-2, 1 KO), from Houston, Texas, takes on undefeated Detroit native Marlon Harrington (8-0, 7 KOs) in an eight-round super welterweight attraction. Plus, undefeated heavyweight prospects Elvis Garcia (12-0, 9 KOs) and Moses Johnson (8-0-1, 7 KOs), from Huntington, N.Y., square off in an intriguing eight-round bout that opens the telecast.

Hall of Famer Barry Tompkins calls the action from ringside with veteran combat sports reporter and MORNING KOMBAT host Brian Campbell and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts with Hall of Famer Steve Farhood remotely performing unofficial scoring duties. The executive producer of SHOBOX: The New Generation is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

The event is promoted by Salita Promotions.

FINAL WEIGHTS

Super Middleweight 10-Round Bout

Isaiah Steen – 166.2 lbs.

Sena Agbeko – 167.2 lbs.

Referee: Charles Fitch; Judges: Mark Consentino (N.J.), Anthony Lundy (N.J.), Joseph Pasquale (N.J.)

Super Welterweight Eight-Round Bout

Marquis Taylor – 154 lbs.  

Marlon Harrington – 153.6 lbs.

Referee: Ricardo Vera; Judges: Jacklyn Atkins (N.J), Tony Lundy (N.J.), Joseph Pasquale (N.J.)

Heavyweight Eight-Round Bout

Elvis Garcia – 232.8 lbs.

Moses Johnson – 259 lbs.

Referee: Charles Fitch; Judges: Jacklyn Atkins (N.J.), Mark Consentino (N.J.), Joseph Pasquale (N.J.)

FINAL QUOTES:

Isaiah Steen

“This is one of my biggest fights. My layoff was just due to a lot of fights and shows not happening and opponents backing out but I was always in the gym getting ready for the opportunity.

“I’m going to out-box him and use my speed. I know he’s a power-puncher but I’m going to shock the world.

“My last fight on SHOBOX I was out-boxing Kalvin Henderson in the beginning of the fight, and I was trying to take him out. It didn’t go according to the game plan. I changed the game plan and used my jab to get the victory.

“I was at the fight when Kalvin Henderson challenged David Morrell in June [on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^®]. That was supposed to be me in there against Morrell. I should have faced him.

“Sparring with [my half-brother] Charles Conwell has been great. He’s really pushed me and shown me a lot of inside game stuff, so I’m well prepared for this fight on the inside. I’m well prepared for this fight. Nothing worries me about him but he should be worried about me for this fight.”

Sena Agbeko

“I’m one of the best super middleweights in the world. I just need the stage to prove it. I know a little bit about him. After I beat my last opponent, apparently Steen wanted to fight me. As fate would have it, his opponent fell through and he reached out and I said, ‘Let’s get it on.’ I imagine that Isaiah is right around the same level as my last opponent. I know he’s a young, hungry fighter but I believe I’m hungrier. This is an opportunity for me and I’m ready to take it.

“For me, every fight at this point is an opportunity to prove that I’m world championship material. My goal is to get a big opportunity against a big-name fighter, to get the win and to keep pushing forward. Isaiah Steen wasn’t expected but I had been training all along so when I got the call, I was excited. I immediately said yes.

“I thought I did pretty well against Vladimir Shishkin… That fight taught me that defense alone doesn’t win fights. You have to also be able to inflict serious damage so I’ve definitely done my homework and I’m ready to reintroduce myself.

“Isaiah has a little bit of everything. He can box when he wants to and he can be an aggressive brawler when he wants to be. For me, my biggest advantage is the experience level. I feel like he hasn’t really fought that many high caliber opponents. I’ve been around a long time. I’ve been through the mill but I don’t think he’s been through the mill. When we get to the late rounds, we’ll see how he responds. I’m prepared for whatever.

“I think that most media when they talk about my power, they make it like I’m some devastating power and I hit hard. But I believe what really works for me is slowly breaking down my opponents through the rounds and then eventually I take them out of there. I don’t think I have that one-punch Mike Tyson power. I don’t have any of that. I believe it’s more breaking down my opponents down round by round and then eventually getting them out of there. I’m not the guy that looks for one-punch knockouts.

“I would love a world championship opportunity and at the moment Canelo has all the belts so I know I have to work my way up. I already have some names in mind but I’m not looking ahead of Steen. The goal is to get past him and then I’ll lay out my plan for the world to see.”

Marquis Taylor

“The draw with Paul Kroll on SHOBOX still doesn’t sit right with me but I’m still grateful for the opportunity and the exposure. More people know who Marquis Taylor is, so still a positive came of that. I learned that I have to get stronger than what I was in February. I learned that when I’m in a position to hurt my opponent, I have to go for it. I hurt Kroll a couple of times. I did go back to the gym and worked on my jab, strength and conditioning, and this time when my opponent is in danger, I’m looking for a better outcome.

“I’m looking to be in the conversation with all the top 10 guys at 154 pounds. I’m trying to get any of them in the ring. It’s just a matter of getting an opportunity to show everyone the level I’m actually on. I’ve been working a lot on head movement and bending my knees more, using my legs when I throw my shots, just sitting down more on my punches but still having good defense.

“COVID was a very confusing time for everyone but one thing I tried to do was find a way to train every day. I didn’t just sit and wait around. I did a lot of running, a lot of shadowboxing. I even changed the way I was eating because I was trying to stay at 147 pounds. I wanted to be like Thomas Hearns where I won a title at 147 pounds and then at 160 and 175. I really wanted to stay at 147. I even gave up beef and chicken and turkey and became a pescatarian. But those two years hurt me because when I tried to make 147 again, it just couldn’t be done.

“I was a bit of a different fighter when I emerged from the pandemic but these last few months, I’ve been getting back to myself, becoming more aggressive, sitting down on my shots, working on the sharpness of my punches. You can expect my punches to be way sharper and to have more of an effect. You can say I’m training for a knockout. I’m not a Tyson or a Deontay Wilder but I’ve been working on my technique and strength, and I want every fight to be better than the last.”

Marlon Harrington

“I’m expecting this to be a very good fight. I’m not looking to go the distance. I’m just going to go in there and implement my game plan. I’m trying to get him out of there. I’m coming in ready and I’m coming in to fight.

“I feel like I have one-punch power, concussive power, the kind of power where I can definitely end the fight with one punch.

“I’ve been cutting hair since I was 12. I have a nice clientele at home. That’s what I do. I’m a barber. Besides being a father and a fighter, I work at a barbershop. It’s my main source of income. I cut hair six days a week, with one day of rest so I can chill with my children.

“I like to play around with being a southpaw a lot once I get into a rhythm, but I’m mainly orthodox. When do I change to southpaw? I’m just in there creating, just having fun in there. I don’t know what I’m actually going to do until I do it. When it comes to turning southpaw, I just turn and let my hands go. So I think it tricks the opponent, especially if I get a guy hurt. It’s a different look, that’s the advantage it gives me.

“When I was getting people out there early, you don’t really learn anything. Going more rounds, I’ve actually learned a lot more. I learned I had to bite down and to relax. That’s the biggest thing, to not get over-anxious and exert more energy than I need to. Going those extra rounds actually helps.

“Before I got into boxing, I was doing bar fighting and street fighting. But in boxing, you’re actually fighting someone who knows how to fight versus some bum who’s been smoking and drinking and has a chip on their shoulder. I was the guy in the neighborhood who people would just call me and I’d just pull up and put the gloves on and fight, like street-fighting. I went to a boxing gym because I wanted to see if I could learn the fundamentals of fighting and that’s when I fell in with it and started taking it more seriously. I took a couple losses in street fighting but it built character.

“I first realized I had power when I was 17 when I knocked out someone for the first time and he was out cold. That’s when I knew I had real power. I’m looking to take my career as far as my body will take me. I’m looking to make a name. I’m here and I’m not looking to lay down for anyone. Am I looking for the KO? I’m punching to hurt you, so if you come at me, that’s what I’m going to do.

“Either the referee is going to stop it or I’ll stop it. I imagine my opponent has the same attitude. I know he comes to fight. He looks legit. This is the fight I need.”

Elvis Garcia

“I get my work ethic from my dad, who moved our family to Oregon when I was a kid. He picked strawberries and cherries in the fields. I started doing that when I was 13.

“I came to boxing later and started in MMA. I wanted to improve my striking so I thought I’d try boxing. I really started it to lose weight, and I just kept progressing and got a little more motivated and kept taking the opportunities as they came to me. I thought maybe I could be the first Mexican heavyweight world champion, but Andy Ruiz took that first. 

“I have a newborn baby now and it’s changed everything, just my mindset and how I approach things. I feel more pressure and know that I’m doing it more than just for me. I want to do everything for her and provide for my family and give them a different lifestyle. I don’t want them to struggle.

“Right now, my footwork is my best attribute. I can work the angles a lot better than I used to. The jiu jitsu I did as a kid really helped me with my flexibility but for my footwork the wrestling really helped me. My best punch is my right hand – my overhand right.

“My brother is the one who has always pushed me and always believed in me. He said I always had the talent, I just had to believe in it.

“I sparred with a lot of top guys like Deontay Wilder and Anthony Joshua. He once called me his ‘secret weapon’ because I was always applying the pressure.”

Moses Johnson

“I believe I’m going to be the heavyweight world champion. I’m around one of the best teams in boxing. I’m around great up-and-coming fighters and guys like B-Hop (Bernard Hopkins) and Chris Colbert. I’m training with these guys every day. My coaches don’t train me as a heavyweight. They make me push it out every session.

“It’s boxing for me 100 percent. I did work with kids who have disabilities. But now I just train and just fight.

“I’ve sparred with guys like Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller, Otto Wallin, all the top competition. I haven’t sparred yet with Tyson Fury or Wilder or Joe Joyce, but a lot of the top guys.

“I need to work on everything to get to that next level. To be at the top you have to work on everything. You have to have a good jab, you have to have good counter punching, you have to have good movement. And not just one technique. Unless you are Wilder and you have that right hand. But if that doesn’t work you have to have good boxing skills. You have to know how to coFunter and how to jab and how to position yourself to throw certain punches.

“I know nothing about Elvis. The way we train, we’re prepared for whatever. It doesn’t matter if they are a boxer or a brawler. We train so that we are ready for anything and everything in the ring.

“Boxing is my life. I love fighting and I think about it all the time. I’m always watching boxing videos and always reading up on it. I’m just so into it. If you’re going to do something you have to be all in. You can’t be half in.”

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For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #SHOBOX, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports

About SHOBOX: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, SHOBOX: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The SHOBOX philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 86 fighters who have appeared on SHOBOX and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more. 

(Oct. 20, 2022) — Light heavyweight contender Leon Bunn hopes to author a signature victory win over undefeated Irishman Padraig McCrory in a 12-round main event this Saturday, Oct. 22 at Fabriksporthalle in Frankfurt, Germany.
 
In addition to Bunn-McCrory, two of Top Rank’s most dynamic young talents — featherweight Kurt Walker and junior middleweight Kieran Molloy — will see action in separate six-rounders. Molloy will fight 38-bout veteran Sandro Jajanidzez, while Walker steps up against Colombia’s Yin Caicedo (6-4-3, 2 KOs), who has never been knocked out.
 
Fight action will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ at 1:05 p.m. ET/10:05 a.m. PT.
 
Bunn (18-0, 9 KOs) formerly held the IBF International belt and defended that strap in a career-best victory over former world title challenger Enrico Koelling in November 2019. He’s won three bouts since the Koelling triumph, most recently stopping Tunisian southpaw Islam Teffahi. McCrory (14-0, 8 KOs) is an all-action fighter from Belfast who has knocked out his last four foes in five rounds or less. He is coming off a one-sided fifth-round destruction over former world title challenger Marco Antonio Periban.
 
In other scheduled undercard contests:
 
Bilgenur Aras (7-1, 5 KOs) vs. Oksana Romanova (10-33-1, 3 KOs), 6 x 2-minute rounds, bantamweight
 
Daniel Dietz (6-0, 6 KOs) vs. Gyorgy Kutasi (5-15, 3 KOs), 6 rounds, heavyweight
 
Allen Bauer (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Renato Balogh (1-0), 4 rounds, super middleweight
 
Richard Lewicki (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. Merab Turkadze (6-17-1, 2 KOs), 4 rounds, middleweight
 
About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 22.8 million subscribers. Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $9.99 a month (or $99.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices).  

LONDON (Oct. 20, 2022) — In what will be a sensational heavyweight double-header, the WBC and lineal world champion Tyson Fury will defend his crown against long-standing rival Derek Chisora at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday December 3 on a night where WBA world champion Daniel Dubois will make a first defence of his belt against South African southpaw Kevin Lerena, exclusively on BT Sport Box Office (UK & RoI) and ESPN+ (U.S.).

Fury, who intends on fighting Oleksandr Usyk for the undisputed championship in the first part of 2023, will once again perform on UK soil following his April knockout of mandatory challenger Dillian Whyte in front of 94,000 fans at Wembley Stadium.

Promoted by Frank Warren’s Queensberry Promotions, in association with Top Rank, this will be the third meeting between Fury and Chisora. They first met in July 2011 with the British and Commonwealth titles at stake, and Fury prevailed by unanimous decision.

“I am thrilled to be delivering a Tyson Fury world title defence in front of the British fans in London,” said promoter Frank Warren. “Tyson clearly conquered America across his trilogy with Deontay Wilder and there is also huge demand to stage his fights from sites across the world.

“Tyson wanted to fight in his home country again this year following his special night at Wembley Stadium in April. This brings us to the magnificent Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and a match against an old rival in Derek Chisora.

“Derek, also a big favourite with British fans, has reinvented himself in recent years and Tyson has long stated his wish to fight him for a third time.

“Tyson can’t afford any slip-up in this fight as he has the much-publicised undisputed match-up with Usyk in the New Year which we’re really looking forward to.

“I am also delighted that we have added Daniel Dubois to the card with a first defence of his WBA belt against Kevin Lerena. It makes it a real heavyweight night and Daniel represents the best of the new generation coming through.”

“Whenever Tyson Fury fights, it is a major event, and I expect him to once again put on a spectacular show for the fans,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “There are talks about what’s next for Tyson, but the first order of business is a battle against an extraordinarily tough fighter in Derek Chisora.”

Todd Kline, Chief Commercial Officer, Tottenham Hotspur, said: “Our stadium has firmly established itself as a leading venue in London for major sports and entertainment events.

“The AJ-Usyk fight in front of a record crowd here in Tottenham was a truly unforgettable spectacle and we are extremely excited to bring World Heavyweight Championship boxing back to N17 on 3 December. 

“The World Cup break leaves us in a unique position of having no sporting action at the stadium between November 13 – December 31 – what better way to satisfy the demand for world-class live sport before the Premier League returns.”

In between Fury fights, Chisora (33-12, 23 KOs) challenged for the WBC title and gave a good account of himself against Vitali Klitschko in Munich, before entering into a grudge match at West Ham United’s Upton Park against another British rival in David Haye.

He rebuilt from those setbacks by winning the WBO International, European and WBA International titles in a five-fight winning streak, setting up a return fight with Fury that took place at London’s
ExCel Arena in November 2014.

In recent years, Chisora has been involved in two close encounters with Dillian Whyte and one with Usyk, while defeating Carlos Takam, Artur Szpilka and David Price. Last year, he lost a pair of tight affairs with Joseph Parker.

His last fight was an exciting points victory over former world title challenger Kubrat Pulev in July.

Fury (32-0-1, 23 KOs) remains an undefeated champion and completed his remarkable return from the boxing wilderness with a resounding rematch victory over Deontay Wilder in February 2020, with the Bronze Bomber saved by his corner in the seventh round.

A trilogy battle followed eight months later, which delivered a Las Vegas thriller where Wilder was put down in rounds three and 10 and Fury down twice in round four before knocking out the former WBC ruler in the 11th.

The 25-year-old Dubois (18-1, 17 KOs) seized his world title belt in June when he travelled to Miami and demolished previous champion Trevor Bryan, inflicting a first defeat on the American via a fourth-round stoppage.

Lerena (28-1, 14 KOs), 30, is a recent addition to the heavyweight ranks, having established himself as the IBO world cruiserweight champion, making six defences of the title. At heavyweight he has recorded victories over Patrick Ferguson, Bogdan Dinu and Mariusz Wach, winning the WBA and IBO Intercontinental titles in the process.

Tickets for Tyson Fury vs. Derek Chisora for the WBC & Lineal Heavyweight Championship of the World at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium go on general sale at noon tomorrow (Friday, 21 October) from ticketmaster.co.uk.

Fans are encouraged to sign-up for Ticket Alerts at frankwarren.com to receive the direct ticket link on Friday.

Premium packages for the event will go on-sale via tottenhamhotspur.com, with an exclusive pre-sale for Tottenham Hotspur Premium Members commencing at noon today (Thursday, 20 October). 

Please note, this will be an open-air event with a likelihood of winter conditions at the time of year it is taking place. Ticket purchasers are strongly advised to wear appropriate clothing on the night as all seating within the stadium is outdoor.

Doors for the event will open at 5pm.

LONG BEACH, CALIF. – October 20, 2022 – Surrounded by family and reminders of his loved ones, Ashton “H2O” Sylve showed off the skills that have made him one of the sport’s most highly touted prospects during a workout in front of Southern California media on Wednesday. The training session was a warmup act before Sylve, the youngest prospect signed by Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions, faces Braulio Rodriguez of the Dominican Republic in an eight-round lightweight bout in the co-feature of the Paul vs. Anderson Silva pay-per-view on Saturday October 29 at Desert Diamond Arena (formerly Gila River Arena) in Glendale, Ariz., just outside of Phoenix.

The Paul vs. Silva event is co-produced by Most Valuable Promotions and SHOWTIME PPV^®  and is available now for purchase in the United States at SHOWTIME.com/ppv and via the SHOWTIME^® app for a suggested retail price of $59.95 (SRP). Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com. The official promo for the event was inspired by the 1983 cult classic Scarface and is available to watch and share HERE. 

Sylve (7-0, 7 KOs) entertained media at the JackRabbit Boxing Academy in Long Beach, Calif., on Wednesday under the direction of his father and trainer, Ivan Sylve as they prepared to face the big-swinging Rodriguez (20-4, 17 KOs).

The 18-year-old Sylve’s affection for his family was on full display on Wednesday – from the presence of his father to the way Sylve honors his late great grandmother, who died in September and shared a close bond with Sylve. Her name, Elzina Marie Strauss, is inscribed on Sylve’s shoes and he trains to the steady tempo of her favorite old school R&B songs, as he did on Wednesday to Anita Baker’s soulful ballads. Another reminder of his love for family came in the form of his baby sister, who gamely tried to emulate her big brother as he jumped rope and shadow-boxed in the ring. 

Here is what Ashton and Ivan Sylve had to say on Wednesday:

ASHTON SYLVE

“It feels great to fight on the same card as Jake Paul. I finally get to showcase my skills on a big platform in front of everyone. I plan to continue my winning streak, hopefully by knockout. I feel like Rodriguez doesn’t have the same conditioning as me. I’m cut from a different breed.

How have you been preparing to face a more-experienced fighter?

“I’ve been training to fight 12 rounds since I started boxing, so it’s nothing new. I’m just gaining awareness of certain tendencies my opponent has and that’s the main thing we’re preparing for.

“I’ve been stepping up the competition since I started boxing. I started at 16, so that was a big step right there. This fight is keeping me on the right track. I feel like we found our preferred opponent, so that will keep me moving in the right direction.

“On the back of my shoes is my great-grandmother’s name with the date she was born and the date she passed away. She took care of me, my friends, and the entire neighborhood. She was a huge part of our family and working out to the music she enjoyed listening to has been extra motivation for me.

“For me, when I’m away from family, it’s a distraction. Family is everything. When I’m working out with my little sister, it makes training fun and motivating.”

IVAN SYLVE

“Ashton’s skills and poise set him apart. He’s not like any other young fighter. He takes his time and does not rush for a knockout; he lets it come. We know what he can do, and his performance on October 29 will prove that to the world. He will answer everyone’s unanswered questions on the world stage.

“Finding balance as a father and trainer started off rough because, of course, as a dad you want the best for your kids. When Ashton was young, it got overwhelming for him because I would take it home. We studied film and talked about things that he messed up on and things he could improve on. At one point, he really didn’t have a childhood because it was boxing, boxing, boxing. Around the age of eight or nine, he told me he wanted to quit because he was overwhelmed and tired of me yelling at him. So, I listened, and we came to a compromise. I told him I would change up if he did not quit, because we’re not quitters. We train at the gym, and I promised to leave it at the gym. Then, when we get home, it’s dad time.”

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ABOUT PAUL VS. SILVA

International superstar and serial risk-taker Jake “The Problem Child” Paul will face the biggest challenge of his career when he takes on UFC legend and accomplished boxer Anderson “The Spider” Silva in an eight-round bout at a catchweight of 187 pounds on Saturday, October 29 in a Most Valuable Promotions event live on SHOWTIME PPV (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from Desert Diamond Arena, just outside of Phoenix, Ariz. In undercard action, teenage sensation Ashton Sylve will put his knockout streak on the line against Braulio Rodriguez in an eight-round lightweight bout contested at 133 pounds. Top 118-pound contenders and former world title challengers Alexandro “El Peque” Santiago and Antonio “Carita” Nieves will meet again in a 10-round rematch of their exciting 2016 showdown. Elite UFC striker Uriah Hall and former NFL star running back Le’Veon Bell will make their pro debuts in a four-round cruiserweight bout contracted at 195 pounds. In addition, Chris Avila, a disciple of UFC superstar Nate Diaz, will square off against “Doctor Mike” Varshavski, a board-certified family physician and social media influencer, in a four-round cruiserweight bout contracted at 185 pounds.

Wantagh, Long Island (October 19, 2022) – Star Boxing proudly announces “Shore Wars” will take place on Thursday, November 17th, at Mulcahy’s in Wantagh, Long Island. Having opened in 1983, Mulcahy’s has been the home for concerts and sporting events for nearly 40 years, but on November 17, Star Boxing will host the first ever professional boxing card in Mulcahy’s history.

Headlining the card is Long Island fan favorite, undefeated super welterweight, “THE JACKPOT” TYRONE “PRETTY BOY” JAMES (Elmont, NY, 12-0 9KO’s) against Germany’s, OMAR “THE GRINCH” SIALA (39-20-3 23KO’S). James, a shooting star in the northeast boxing scene, looks to close out the year with an emphatic victory over the game veteran, Siala. Should he succeed, James hopes to make a big splash in the super welterweight division in 2023. Siala who has won 5 of his last 7 fights by KO, is aptly nicknamed “The Grinch,” and enters the fight attempting to steal the perfect record of James in the 8-round bout.

Leading a thrilling undercard will be exciting undefeated super welterweight, ZAY “NO CHOICE” FLAHERTY (Elmont, NY, 4-0 2KO’s). Flaherty returns to the ring coming off a thrilling 4th round TKO victory in June over Quadeer Jenkins. Flaherty will be stepping up in a 6-round super welterweight bout.

In a much anticipated local matchup, NYC Police officer, EMMANUEL ETIENNE (Uniondale, NY, 2-0 1KO) will be in a 6 round cruiserweight bout against AFUNWA KING (Bronx, NY by way of Nigeria, 4-1 1KO). This fight is reminiscent of the glory days of boxing when two good prospects that are from the local NY gyms with established NY teams face each other. Etienne was last seen at Star Boxing’s “Borough Boxing” at Carnesecca Arena with a win over Tunde Fatiregun while King appeared on the same show with a win over Kamron Humphrey. Now the two will face off against one another in what has the makings of a very entertaining fight.

In yet another all NY bout, undefeated Yonkers based, super featherweight, IMAN LEE (3-0 2KO’s) who will face of with Staten Island’s DOM BREEN (pro debut) in a 4-round super featherweight bout.

Undefeated super lightweight, VICTOR “SLICK VIC” RABEI (Dublin, IR, 10-0 3KO’s) will be making his US debut at “Shore Wars.” Rabei who was born and raised in Moldova, moved to Ireland to intensify his training as an amateur boxer, before turning pro in 2017. Rabei will be fighting in an 8-round super lightweight bout.

“This is shaping up to be a very exciting show on November 17 at Mulcahy’s” said Star Boxing CEO JOE DEGUARDIA. “Shore Wars will bring a different fan experience, with special table seating that includes service for food and drinks, as well as standing room, general admission bar vibrant tickets in a unique and simple 2 tier ticket setup. A thrilling night of fights is ahead for all those in attendance.”

“Shore Wars” is promoted by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing. Tickets are $75 for General Admission standing bar area, and $150 seated ringside tables with food and drinks service throughout the night. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased HERE. Mulcahy’s Pub and Concert Hall is located at 3232 Railroad Avenue, Wantagh, New York 11793. Doors open at 6:00 PM ET.

ABOUT SHORE WARS:

Star Boxing is proud to announce the inception of its new fight series, “Shore Wars.” The inaugural fight card is set to take place on Thursday, November 17th, at Mulcahy’s in Wantagh, Long Island. Having opened in 1983, Mulcahy’s has been the home for concerts and sporting events for nearly 40 years, but come November 17, Star Boxing will host the first ever professional boxing card in Mulcahy’s history.

For more information visit us at www.StarBoxing.com. For 30 years of action packed fights, championship bouts, LIVE fights and more subscribe to Star Boxing TV HERE. Follow along on social media for fight announcements and updates @StarBoxing, and join the conversation using #ShoreWars

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NEW YORK – October 19, 2022 – “Doctor Mike” Varshavski showed deft footwork and pop in his punches during a workout in front of New York City media on Tuesday before he ducked out to make his afternoon shift at the Overlook Medical Center in Summit, N.J., where he’s an attending physician. Dr. Mike will balance practicing medicine with training for his professional boxing debut when he takes on Chris Avila in a four-round cruiserweight bout on Saturday, October 29 as part of the Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) and SHOWTIME PPV^® event headlined by Jake Paul vs. UFC legend Anderson Silva at Desert Diamond Arena (formerly Gila River Arena) in Glendale, Ariz., just outside Phoenix.

The Jake Paul vs. Anderson Silva Most Valuable Promotions SHOWTIME PPV is available now for purchase in the United States at SHOWTIME.com/ppv and via the SHOWTIME^® app for a suggested retail price of $59.99 (SRP). Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com. The official promo for the event was inspired by the 1983 cult classic Scarface and is available to watch and share HERE.

A social media influencer with over 22 million followers, Dr. Mike plans to donate his entire purse on October 29 to the Boys & Girls Club of Harlem, whose executive director, Sharon Joseph, was in attendance during Tuesday’s workout. Dr. Mike, a board-certified family doctor who was named People magazine’s Sexiest Doctor Alive, started his boxing journey nearly 11 years ago after his mom died of leukemia, and he found refuge in the steady routine of training.

During the early days of the pandemic, his popular YouTube page emerged as a reliable source of health information with interviews with Dr. Anthony Fauci and other health authorities. Senator Chuck Schumer has invited Dr. Mike to appear with him at press conferences to discuss health projects that Schumer has championed. Dr. Mike appeared in a YouTube video with super lightweight contender Ryan Garcia who proclaimed that Dr. Mike “beats any YouTuber” after working out with him.

Dr. Mike entertained media at the Last Round gym in Chelsea, Manhattan on Tuesday under the direction of respected head trainer, Thomas Baldwin, and assistant Steve Frank, an 11-year pro who once challenged Bernard Hopkins for the middleweight title in 1996.

Here is what Dr. Mike had to say on Tuesday:

DR. MIKE VARSHAVSKI

“I’m living out my boyhood dream being able to fight on SHOWTIME PPV. Getting to face Chris Avila and getting a taste of what it feels like to be a real warrior inside that ring is a dream come true. I’m looking forward to making my teammates proud and showing all the hard work we’ve done in the gym. I know it’s not as long as some other fighters, but I understand the privilege that comes along with being in this position. I’m going to make the most of this one opportunity that I have to make my patients, my co-workers and all the people that watch my YouTube channel proud to encourage them to stay active, stay fit and to live to the top of their potential so they can stay happy and healthy.

“Not only do I have this connection to boxing for the love of the sport – but also because of how I fell into the sport. About 11 years ago, I lost my mom to cancer in the middle of medical school. I found myself in a dark place. I was fortunate enough to meet my head trainer Thomas [Baldwin] here over 10 years ago. He started training me when I was little kid with braces and a hoodie coming into the gym, just coming in once a week for the love of the sport.

“Over the last year, Thomas [Baldwin] and I kicked it into high gear. I see the work that he puts into training me. He has a family. He has kids. He always makes time to be here for me and that’s always appreciated and with my many other jobs that I have, I make sure to be here every day. I’ve never once canceled on Thomas since we’ve been doing this, and I look forward to continuing that streak.”

How do you balance boxing with your other pursuits?

“The biggest edge I have – and it’s funny that it’s even an edge — is that I don’t have a big family and I don’t have kids so I’m able to dedicate myself to the craft of boxing to make sure I’m there every single day. I make sure to stay super organized with my team that’s here. They help me with my YouTube stuff and everything else that we have in line. The podcast – we’re launching special products at the end of this year. We’re doing this with a very small team but because we’re very passionate we believe in the message: Ethics, motivation.

“Right now, the people that look at YouTube boxers and the sphere of influencers that are getting into the boxing space – there’s a lot of beef, a lot of arguing, name calling, and while that has been successful in boxing – props to Floyd Mayweather and everything he’s created – I’m trying to do this differently. I’m trying to be respectful and a true artist in the sport of boxing, where we’re doing it for the love of the game. I respect my opponent but once we step into the ring, they are my opponent. So, we’re going to go as hard as we can, and I want him to go as hard as he can because I don’t want this to be easy.”

On wanting to face Jake Paul in the future:

“I think there’s a lot of fighters in my size range in the 180-190 range that will be very interesting to take on. Also, we have to keep in my mind that I’m a practicing doctor, so we have to see what the schedule holds, what the timing is, but I like to be optimistic rather than pessimistic, so I think there’s great things on the horizon.

“I think Jake Paul caught a lot of flack for being very inflammatory and instigative, and he had to do that to create a name for himself in boxing because otherwise people really wouldn’t pay attention to him. But now I’m very appreciative of the stuff he’s doing to improve fighter pay. He’s got Amanda Serrano fighting in sold-out Madison Square Garden. He helped her achieve that. I’ve become very close to her family and see how grateful she is for the things he’s helped her as a team achieve. So, if he keeps doing that, then that’s amazing and I want to see only continued success for him.”

# # #

ABOUT PAUL VS. SILVA

International superstar and serial risk-taker Jake “The Problem Child” Paul will face the biggest challenge of his career when he takes on UFC legend and accomplished boxer Anderson “The Spider” Silva in an eight-round bout at a catchweight of 187 pounds on Saturday, October 29 in a Most Valuable Promotions event live on SHOWTIME PPV (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from Desert Diamond Arena, just outside of Phoenix, Ariz. In undercard action, teenage sensation Ashton Sylve will put his knockout streak on the line against Braulio Rodriguez in an eight-round lightweight bout contested at 133 pounds. Top 118-pound contenders and former world title challengers Alexandro “El Peque” Santiago and Antonio “Carita” Nieves will meet again in a 10-round rematch of their exciting 2016 showdown. Elite UFC striker Uriah Hall and former NFL star running back Le’Veon Bell will make their pro debuts in a four-round cruiserweight bout contracted at 195 pounds. In addition, Chris Avila, a disciple of UFC superstar Nate Diaz, will square off against “Doctor Mike” Varshavski, a board-certified family physician and social media influencer, in a four-round cruiserweight bout contracted at 185 pounds.

LAS VEGAS (Oct. 19, 2022) — Lightweight prodigy Emiliano “El General” Vargas, the youngest fighting son of former junior middleweight world champion “Ferocious” Fernando Vargas and one of boxing’s blue-chip talents, has inked a multi-year promotional contract with Top Rank.
 
Trained by his father, Vargas (1-0, 1 KO) is a seven-time national amateur champion who turned 18 in April. The Las Vegas native will make his Top Rank debut in a four-rounder Saturday, Nov. 12, at Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas on the undercard of the Janibek Alimkhanuly/Seniesa Estrada world title doubleheader. Vargas’ bout will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+.
 
“I can’t wait to fight. Like my dad says, ‘El legado Vargas continúa.’ The legacy is everything, but at the same time, I am here to write my own story and make my family proud. This is my legacy as much as my dad’s. This is something that is so deeply embedded in my family and as a Mexican. I want to be a Fernando Vargas, a Julio Cesar Chavez. There is something so beautiful about a whole country having your back. I’m proud of my roots. I can’t wait to perform and have the fans embrace me just like they embraced my dad.
 
“It’s about how I perform, but Top Rank will help me get to that next level.”
 
Vargas had a 110-10 record in the unpaid ranks before turning pro in May to great fanfare. He knocked out Mark Salgado in the opening round at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles, a short drive from his father’s Oxnard hometown. He is part of a second-generation fighting family that includes his older brothers, Fernando Jr. and Amado, who are also undefeated professionals. The youngest Vargas has experiences well beyond his years, as he’s sparred former world champions Jorge Linares and Jamel Herring, in addition to current pound-for-pound great Shakur Stevenson.

LAS VEGAS – October 19, 2022 – Undefeated all-time great boxing superstar Floyd “Money” Mayweather and UK-based YouTube sensation turned pro-boxer Deji Olantunji went face to face for the first time this past Thursday at a press conference in Las Vegas before they headline the latest installment of the Global Titans Fight Series on Sunday, November 13 from the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai and live on pay-per-view.

IMPORTANT PPV INFO: Global Titans: Mayweather v Deji will be distributed by Integrated Sports across North America live on Cable and Satellite Pay Per View via iN Demand, DIRECTV, DISH, Shaw PPV, Rogers, Bell TV, and SaskTel priced at $34.95. Additionally, it will be broadcast via Digital PPV on PPV.com, FITE and DAZN PPV.

The event is presented by world-class boxing and entertainment company Global Titans, along with co-owners/partners FrontRow Entertainment and Mayweather Promotions. Tickets for the live event are on sale now and can be purchased at https://www.coca-cola-arena.com/en/events/Global-Titans.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say last Thursday from Mayweather Boxing Club in Las Vegas:

FLOYD MAYWEATHER

“I’m just glad that we’re able to come together and put another great event together for the fans. I’ve been here so many times as far as doing big fights, and it’s all about entertainment. That’s what you’re getting on November 13.

“I’m happy to be back in the UAE to give people excitement. We’re both going to have fun and all of the people in the world are going to be entertained.

“Deji has a huge following, I have a huge following and it’s all about excitement. We’re both going to bring it and I think it’s going to be really cool for the UAE.

“I like his confidence and I like that after his first fight, he didn’t give up. He kept working hard to get better and improve.”

DEJI OLATUNJI

“This is amazing. I’m truly blessed. This is surreal. We’re making history. I don’t really have the words to properly explain how I feel.

“At the end of the day, I’m here to have fun and showcase my skills. We’ll see what happens in the ring on November 13.

“I always want to encourage people to never give up. I was a guy who people always doubted. But I made sure that I worked hard and carried on, because I’m never going to give up.

“I want to show Floyd that I’m really bringing something to the table with this fight.”

KEANE ANIS Co-Owner, Global Titans Fight Series

“We came up with Global Titans because I wanted to go global with big fight events and support the youth in this sport in Africa and all around the world. Floyd is very much interested in giving back to his fans and that helped make the idea come together.”

UDAY SINGH, CEO of Global Titans Fight Series

“It takes a lot to get to where we are today. November 13, something huge is going to be born. It’s the start of many big things. We couldn’t be luckier to have the champ, Floyd Mayweather, headlining that fight.”

#         #         #

Global Titans:

Global Titans is a world-class boxing and entertainment platform that works with titans from the boxing world and superstar entertainers to create ground-breaking live shows and content for millions of fans worldwide. Their productions boast a global roster of talented world champions, elite contenders, and tomorrow’s rising stars.

Their mission is to create shows that bring joy to boxing and music fans around the world and their team comprises experts in their fields who continuously strive to innovate with new formats, technology and delivery platforms, so their shows & content are remembered & cherished – just like the titans who bring them to life.

Website: https://www.global-titans.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/globaltitansfightseries/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/GlobalTitansFS

Uday Singh:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oudaysingh/?hl=en

Tik Tok: TikTok : www.tiktok.com/@oudaysingh12

Twitter: https://twitter.com/oudays?lang=en

About Frontrow:

The Frontrow Entertainment team has more than 20 years of experience in the entertainment industry. Founder Keane Anis has been organizing all kinds of events, sporting events, concerts, beach parties and activations for celebrity tours, meet and greets and appearances with names such as Floyd Mayweather, N.E.R.D and Pharrell Williams, Usher, Chris Brown, Ne-Yo, Kelly Rowland, Shaquille, TGT, Rick Ross, T-Pain, Young Thug, Rich Homie Quan, Ty Dolla Sign, Tyga, Redman and Method Man, Ja Rule and Ashanti and P Square are few celebrities that are past and present Frontrow clients. Frontrow is proud to be a presenting sponsor of The Global Titans Event Series.

Frontrow Contact:

@keane_frontrow (Instagram)

or visit www.FrontRowEntertainment.com.

About Mayweather Promotions:

Based in the entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas, Mayweather Promotions was established in 2007 by 15-time World Champion and undefeated boxing icon, Floyd “Money” Mayweather. Mayweather Promotions seamlessly promotes all forms of live entertainment. We are the past, present & future of sports & entertainment.

Beatriz Ferreira will make her much anticipated professional debut at the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland on Saturday November 12, live worldwide on DAZN.
 

TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW FROM THE ROCKET MORTGAGE FIELDHOUSE WEBSITE

Ferreira penned a long-term promotional deal with Matchroom and Eddie Hearn in the summer, and the amateur World champion and Olympic silver medalist will step through the ropes for the first time in the paid ranks in Cleveland against fellow Brazilian Taynna Cardoso (5-0 1 KO) over four rounds.
 
The 29 year old Ferreira is itching to get started in the pro game and wants to get active from debut as she targets adding professional World title honors to her impressive amateur background.
 
“I am excited to finally have my professional debut confirmed and especially for it to take place in the United States,” said Ferreira. “I want to put on a big show for all the boxing fans there so they can see what I am about. 
 
“I have been working very hard in the gym for the last few months, making little adjustments to my style. I can’t wait to feel the vibe and energy as a professional boxer and start my journey to becoming World Champion!”
 
Ferreira faces Cardoso on a stacked card in Cleveland, as hometown star Montana Love headlines his first show in his backyard against Australian Steve Spark.
 
Matchroom’s newest Stateside signing, Richardson Hitchins, fight for his first pro title when he takes on Yomar Alamo for the IBF North American Super-Lightweight title, Raymond Ford continues to catch the eye in his rise in the Featherweight division and defends his WBA Continental Americas title in Cleveland against Sakaria Lukas and Christian Tapia takes on Cleveland’s Thomas Mattice for the WBA Continental Americas Super-Featherweight title.
 
Love’s older brother and Olympian Raynell Williams continues his return to boxing against fellow Ohioan Ryizeemmion Ford, Khalil Coe faces unbeaten Bradley Olmeda and Nikoloz Sekhniashvili meets Ohio’s David Rodriguez.

On Saturday, November 5, at the John T. Rhodes Myrtle Beach Sports Center, promoter Christy Martin, in association with Fiesta Mexicana will proudly present “Mayhem in Myrtle 6,” a stacked night of world-class professional and amateur boxing in Myrtle Beach, SC.

In the night’s 10-round main event, undefeated Kenmon Evans (8-0-1, 2 KOs) of New Smyrna Beach, Florida, will take on Augusta, Georgia’s Aaron “Ghozt Mas” Casper (7-4-2, 5 KOs) for the NABA Light Heavyweight Championship.

In the co-main event, promising undefeated heavyweight Norman Neely (13-0, 8 KOs) of Paterson, New Jersey, will have his second fight in two months and fourth this year, when he takes on experienced southpaw veteran Jason “Iron Man” Bergman (27-20-2, 18 KOs) of Birmingham, Alabama, in a six-round brawl.

Tickets for “Mayhem in Myrtle 6,” proudly sponsored by Thee Dollhouse, J Peters Grill & Bar, MindZero, United Rentals, Citadel Contractors, Fiesta Mexicana and Beast Boxing, range from $50 General Admission to $70 Ringside and $85 Premium, and are available at Eventbrite.com.

Also scheduled for action is hard-hitting transplanted Floridian Artem Brusov (11-0, 10 KOs) as he continues his march up the super middleweight ranks against a foe that is TBA. Brusov hasn’t had to fight more than a single round in any fight since 2019.

Undefeated hometown hero Josh Baker (1-0, 1 KO) of Myrtle Beach will look to stay perfect against 1-1, 1 KO Floridian Zachary Albornoz in a super middleweight four-rounder, while Marietta, Georgia’s all-action Ruben Mora will make his four-round super lightweight professional debut against an opponent that is TBA; and Don King-promoted undefeated Cuban prospect Raynel Mederos (7-0, 2 KOs) will also appear vs. TBA in a welterweight six-rounder.

In other supporting bouts, undefeated cruiserweight A’mire Lewis (4-0, 3 KOs) will face a deceptively tough six-round test from the 0-1 Raphael Carolina of Wendell, North Carolina, in what promises to be a slugfest.

Also scheduled is an appearance by 6’ 5” and 260-lb heavyweight powerhouse Maurice Jones (7-0, 6 Kos) of Asheville, North Carolina, in a six-round showdown against West Virginia veteran Anthony Williams (5-17-1, 3 KOs). A promising big man, Jones will soon be looking to test his skills against the best in the division.

And finally, local heavyweight hopeful Desmond Thompson (3-1, 3 KOs) will continue his pursuit of a championship in a four-rounder vs. TBA.

Five amateur bouts are scheduled to start the festivities, featuring Olympic hopeful Summer Griffiths, as well as fan favorites Jonathan “Hater Maker” Ashton and three other amateurs from Myrtle Beach’s Beast Boxing Gym.

On fight night, doors open at 4:00 pm EST. Amateur bouts begin at 5:00 pm and the pro bouts start at 6:00 pm. The John T. Rhodes Myrtle Beach Sports Center is located at 115 Sports Center Way in Myrtle Beach (ph: 843.918.1500).

For fans outside the Myrtle Beach area, zingotv.com will provide a livestream of the action, starting at 6:00 pm.