Zelfa Barrett will face Shavkatdzhon Rakhimov for the vacant IBF Super-Featherweight World Title on a huge night of World Championship boxing at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates on Saturday November 5, live to subscribers worldwide on DAZN (excluding South Korea and MENA).

Joe Cordina was set to make the first defence of his IBF World Title on the stacked undercard of Dmitry Bivol’s WBA Light-Heavyweight World Title clash with Mexico’s Gilberto Zurdo Ramirez, but the Welshman suffered a hand injury that required surgery and was subsequently stripped of his title by the IBF.

Manchester’s Barrett (28-1, 16 KOs) is ranked at No.2 with the IBF and is next in line to fight for the famous red and gold belt against the IBF’s No.1 ranked Super-Featherweight Rakhimov (16-0-1, 13 KOs) – who gets a second opportunity to fight for the 130lbs crown following his draw with an overweight Joseph Diaz last year.

‘Brown Flash’ lands his dream World Title shot after a string of impressive wins that have pushed the 29-year-old up the world rankings, including a shutout points win over South Africa’s Bruno Tarimo in their World Title eliminator bout last December and another wide points win over Faroukh Kourbanov to claim the European Title at the Cardiff Motorpoint Arena in June.

Olympic gold medal star Galal Yafai (2-0, 2 KOs) will defend his WBC International Flyweight Title against Mexico’s Gohan Rodriguez Garcia (12-1-1, 1 KO). The pair were originally slated to meet on the now postponed Chris Eubank Jr vs. Conor Benn undercard in London but will lock horns a month later on the historic ‘Champion Series’ event.

Kal Yafai (26-1, 15 KOs), older brother of Galal, fights for the first time since losing his WBA Super-Flyweight World Title to modern great Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez at The Ford Center at The Star, Frisco back in February 2020.

Hyde Lightweight prospect Campbell Hatton (8-0, 2 KOs), son of British boxing legend Ricky, goes for his fourth win of 2022 after notching wins over Joe Ducker at The O2 in February, Ezequiel Gregores at Manchester Arena in April and most recently Michal Dufek at Sheffield Arena in August.

Oldham Super-Featherweight Aqib Fiaz (9-0) fights outside of the UK for the first time as a pro when he meets Spain’s Diego Valtierra (6-5-2, 2 KOs) over 8 rounds, plus there’s action for Dubai Super-Featherweight Fahad Al Bloushi (10-1, 2 KOs), Dubai Lightweight Majid Al Naqbi (7-0, 4 KOs) and undefeated UAE Super-Flyweight Sultan Al Nuaimi (8-0).

“It’s amazing to be fighting for the IBF Super-Featherweight World Title in Abu Dhabi on a big show,” said Barrett. “I feel like it’s deserved. I had a World Title Eliminator last year and I’m ranked No.2 in the world with the IBF. I’ve been in the gym and I’ve always said I’m two fights away from being a World Champion. I beat Bruno Tarimo and then I beat Faroukh Kourbanov. So now I’m here and it’s my time to shine. 

“Rakhimov is a very good fighter. He comes forward, he’s aggressive and he’s got a good boxing brain. I’m expecting a tough fight and a tough 12 rounds. We’re going to have to work every second of every minute of every round. I’m preparing for that and I’m going to leave no stone unturned. We’re putting everything into this opportunity. 

“Of course you’d like more notice but I’ve been in the gym training and working hard anyway. When we got the call, we were ready. No doubt. Anyone would like more time to prepare but this is what makes me different to the other fighters. Some fighters get 12 weeks, some fighters get 10 weeks, I’ll do it in 6 and look good doing it too.”

“Shavkatdzhon Rakhimov against Zelfa Barrett for the vacant IBF Super-Featherweight World Title is another 50-50 fight for Abu Dhabi’s new ‘Champion Series’,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “Rakhimov is a very good fighter. He’s a former IBO World Champion and has already fought for the IBF World Title. Zelfa is a guy who’s earned his shot. He fought an IBF Eliminator Tarimo and he’s ready to go. This is a massive opportunity for him in neutral territory on a huge show to go and change his life.

“Zelfa Barrett as World Champion against Joe Cordina coming back to try and regain his World Championship is a massive fight for British boxing. Joe will be really down and frustrated at the moment, but he will get that World Title shot as soon as he resumes his career – hopefully that will be against Zelfa Barrett and we’ll get a massive all-British fight. Three World Title fights and a stacked undercard featuring Olympic Champions, former World Champions and some of the best up and coming prospects from around the world – we can’t wait for November 5!”

Tickets for the World Title triple-header Dh 100, with limited VIP packages including ringside seats. All tickets are on sale at www.etihadarena.ae.

INDIO, CA (Oct. 14, 2022) – In the last scheduled fight for 2022 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, fans can expect jam-packed action on Thursday, Oct. 20 for Golden Boy Fight Night on DAZN. 

The night will bring a number of special guests including Oscar De La Hoya and Bernard Hopkins, who will be watching the main event spectacular featuring newly-signed, blue-chip prospect Floyd “Kid Austin” Schofield (11-0, 9 KOs) of Austin, Texas measuring up his skills against Daniel “Bad Boy” Rosas (22-5-1, 14 KOs) in an eight-round match. The event will be broadcast live worldwide on DAZN beginning at 6:00 p.m. PT. 

The co-main event will feature two former female world title contenders battling for another opportunity to fight for a world championship. Mexico City’s Anabel Ortiz (32-5, 4 KOs) will take on Guatemala City, Guatemala’s Maria Santizo (10-1, 6 KOs) in an eight-round light flyweight match-up.

In a four-round super featherweight bout, Moreno Valley’s Joshua “El Americano” Garcia (5-0, 3 KOs) will fight against Christian “El Niño” Lorenzo (3-3, 1 KO). Garcia was last seen knocking out his opponent Hilario Martinez-Moreno in the second round. 

Jorge Estrada (3-0, 3 KOs) who represents Mexicali, Mexico, will be looking to maintain his first-round knockout streak since his debut as he faces Tamaulipas, Mexico’s Sergio Gonzalez (6-11-1, 2 KOs) in a four-round super welterweight fight. Fort Lauderdale, Florida’s Eric Tudor (5-0, 4 KOs) will participate in a six-round super welterweight against Tucson, Arizona’s Ramon Marquez (5-2, 5 KOs). 

Also from Mexicali, Mexico, Angel “The AB” Beltran (14-1, 9 KOs) will be facing Rance Ward (7-4-1, 2 KOs) of Houma, Louisiana in a six-round welterweight fight. Danny Garcia (3-0, 3 KOs) of Denver, Colorado who will be facing a soon-to -be-announced opponent in a four-round super featherweight bout. 

In a four-round lightweight fight, San Juan, Puerto Rico’s decorated, amateur standout Kiria Tapia will make her pro-debut against Knoxville, Tennessee’s Hanna Rosario (1-0). Also making his pro-debut and opening the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino’s show, Danny Luna of Los Angeles will face Antonio Lemus (0-1) who is also from Los Angeles. 

Tickets for Golden Boy Fight Night on DAZN: Schofield vs. Rosas are on sale and are priced at $55, $45, $35 and $25 plus applicable facility fees and service charges. Tickets are available at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino box office, by calling 1-800-827-2946, or by purchasing online at www.fantasyspringsresort.com.

Media interested in a credential for the fight must fill out a credential application by Monday, Oct. 17. To apply, please visit https://bit.ly/Oct20GBFN. 

Golden Boy Fight Night on DAZN is presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The event is sponsored by “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts,” and Torres Brandy. The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #GBFightNight

London, England – October 14, 2022 – After ten years of tension, the time for talking is over – Claressa ‘GWOAT’ Shields and Savannah ‘The Silent Assassin’ Marshall officially made weight today for their long-awaited contest atop tomorrow night’s BOXXER LEGACY: Shields vs Marshall card.

The fight – for the undisputed middleweight championship of the world – headlines the event and brings a decade-long rivalry to the boil for what is the biggest fight in the history of female boxing.

Things are no less heated between the co-headline competitors: Mikaela Mayer and Alycia Baumgardner had to be separated at today’s weigh-ins when they faced off for photos after making weight.

Having exchanged increasingly strong words for weeks, things boiled over today: as the things began to turn physical during the face-off, security stepped in to separate the pair. Mayer swung a kick at Baumgardner in the process, prompting an angry reaction from the Baumgardner team.

Today’s weigh-in results are below, measured in British stones and Imperial / US pounds:

At the link above please find a range of photos from today’s event, free for editorial use with credit to Lawrence Lustig / BOXXER.

BOXXER LEGACY: SHIELDS vs MARSHALL – Official Weigh In Results

Claressa Shields – 11st 5lb 5oz (159 lbs)

Savannah Marshall – 11st 5lb 5oz (159 lbs)

Mikaela Mayer – 9st 3lb 5oz (129 lbs)

Alycia Baumgardner – 9st 3lb 5oz (129 lbs)

Lauren Price 10st 5lb 5oz (145.3 lbs)

Timea Belik 10st 5lb (145 lbs)

Karriss Artingstall 8st 13lb 5oz (125 lbs)

Marina Sakharov 8st 12lb 5oz (124 lbs)

Caroline Dubois 9st 11 lbs (137 lbs)

Milena Koleva 9st 10 lbs 5oz (136.7 lbs)

April Hunter 11st (154 lbs)

Erica Alvarez 10st 12 lbs 5oz (152 lbs)

Georgia O’Connor 10st 9 lbs 5oz (149.3 lbs)

Joyce Van Ee 10st 12 lbs (152 lbs)

Ebonie Jones 8st 12 lbs (124 lbs)

Jasmina Nad 8st 8 lbs (120 lbs)

Ginny Fuchs 8st 2 lbs 5oz (114 lbs)

Gemma Ruegg 8st 3 lbs 5oz (115 lbs)

Sarah Leighmann 8st 13 lbs (125 lbs)

Rebecca Connolly 8st 13 lbs (125 lbs)

Shannon Ryan 8st 2 lbs (114 lbs)

Buchra El Quaissi 8st 5oz (117 lbs)

===

BOXXER LEGACY: Shields vs Marshall takes place tomorrow, Saturday, October 15th at The O2 in London with long-time rivals Claressa Shields and Savannah Marshall headlining for the undisputed world middleweight championship.

It’s the most-anticipated women’s fight of all time and one of the UK’s biggest sporting events of the year, topping the first-ever all-female bill to take place in the UK.

WBO and IBF world champion Mikaela Mayer and WBC champion Alycia Baumgardner face off in a 130lb unification bout in the chief support bout and the card also features Olympians Lauren Price, Karriss Artingstall and Caroline Dubois.

All the action airs live and exclusively on Sky Sports in the UK & Ireland and on ESPN in the USA.

LIVERPOOL, OCTOBER 14 – Peter McGrail says victory over Alexander Espinoza will be the launchpad towards title fights and “big things” next year.

McGrail shared a final stare down with Nicaraguan puncher Espinoza at Friday’s weigh-in ahead of his headline fight at Probellum Liverpool II. 

The future world champion has only had four fights as a professional, but the Liverpudlian’s stellar amateur career means he is ready to be moved quickly towards title class. 

And McGrail, who tipped the scales at 124.2lbs at the Eventim Olympia, knows a win over the experienced Espinoza will catapult him towards fights with domestic rivals Jason Cunningham, Liam Davies and Gamal Yafai – fighters the Everton fan is already confident of beating. 

“At this moment in time, I’m nowhere near close to the rankings as I’ve only had four fights, but I believe over the next two or three fights, I’m going to be pushing into that top 10 domestically,” McGrail said.  

“But there’s no-one even in the top four that I wouldn’t back myself against. I believe the experience I’ve had in the amateurs and boxing for Great Britain over the years, none of them in the top 10 in Great Britain would worry me. 

“This feels like the start of big things for me. Next year will be the looking to start collecting some belts, it’s been a long time coming.” 

Probellum Liverpool II, which also features the IBO world featherweight title fight between Jazza Dickens and Lerato Dlamini, streams live and for free at Probellum.com from 6pm. 

MAIN EVENT?? 

10 Rounds Super Bantamweight Contest 

Peter McGrail (4-0) 124.2lbs 

Alexander Espinoza (21-4-2) 121.4lbs? 

VACANT IBO WORLD FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE 

Jazza Dickens (31-4) 125.12lbs 

Lerato Dlamini (18-1)?125.2lbs? 

?
6 Rounds Lightweight Contest?? 

?Steven Cairns (3-0) 136.8lbs 

Angelo Turco (8-26-2) 133.4lbs 

6 Rounds Super Bantamweight Contest 

Joe McGrail (5-0) 124.1lbs 

Alexander Taylor (20-36-2) 124.1lbs 

6 Rounds Bantamweight Contest  

Blane Hyland (6-1) 119.6lbs 

Mikey Young (2-5-1) 117.1lbs 

6 Rounds Bantamweight Contest 

Will Cawley (2-0) 124.1lbs 

Angel Gabriel Chavez (3-3-1) 120.4lbs 

4 Rounds Featherweight Contest  

John Edwardson (3-0) 131.8lbs 

Simas Volosinas (7-103) 132lbs 

Doors open at 5pm 

Key fighter imagery from the press conference and event artwork can be found HERE 
(Please credit Probellum if used) 

To keep up to date with the latest news on Probellum Liverpoll II, sign up to our newsletter?or follow Probellum on?Instagram,?Twitter?and?Facebook.???? 

You can also follow our official news, results, and information account, Probellum News, on Twitter.?? 

Two future stars of female boxing will take center stage on the undercard of the huge Leon Bunn vs. Padraig McCrory IBO World light heavyweight championship showdownon October 22 at the Fabriksporthalle in Frankfurt, Germany presented by Wasserman Boxing in association with Probellum. Sweden’s top featherweight prospect Lucy Wildheart is set to battle the experienced Italian Angela Cannizzaro over six rounds, while local hero and bantamweight prospect Bilgenur Aras squares off with Oksana Romanova from the Ukraine in another six-round bout.

A world title has been the goal for Lucy Wildheart since day one, as the 29-years old Swedish featherweight star has had her eyes set on world title glory ever since turning professional in 2017. Just last week, she recorded her tenth win as a prizefighter with a six-round shut-out decision over Claudia Ferenczi in Rotherham. She wants to add her second win in two weeks on October 22 in Frankfurt, taking yet another step towards a world title fight in the process. ”I am very much looking forward to coming to Frankfurt and being a part of a Wasserman show. Getting there with my team, I’m looking to put a big performance for the boxing fans,“ Lucy Wildheart said. “I’ve been chasing the dream of becoming a world champion for almost 10 years since I set my goal. I believe Frankfurt could be the path to the world title.“

Bantamweight powerhouse and local favorite Bilgenur Aras will try to to excite her hometown fans in her comeback after a 15-month layoff. The hard-hitting 26-years old captured the UBF World bantamweight championship in her last fight, but has not fought since that title winning effort in July 2021. She will try to get back to fighting rhythm against the experienced Oksana Romanova over six rounds in Frankfurt. “I’m very happy about the opportunity to fight on October 22 after more than a year out of the ring,“ Bilgenur Aras said. “It’s an honor for me to be fighting on such a big stage, and I’m very thankful to Wasserman Boxing for the opportunity. It’s amazing to be fighting in Frankfurt, in my hometown. I can’t wait for the support of my fans on fight night, as I know there will be many of them in the arena.“

Promoter Kalle Sauerland added: ”Lucy Wildheart is a strong fighter on the way to a world title. I’m sure she will deliver fireworks on October 22. With Bilgenur Aras, we have another highly talented fighter in the ring in Frankfurt, a true hometown favorite. The fans can expect a great, great show!“

Tickets for the IBO World light heavyweight championship between Leon Bunn and Padraig McCrory and a stellar undercard featuring, among others, Lucy Wildheart and Bilgenur Aras on October 22 at the Fabriksporthalle in Frankfurt, Germany, are on sale now and can be bought via Eventim.

IBF and IBO World Youth light heavyweight champion Luca Cinqueoncie had to withdraw from his scheduled rematch with Leon Maric due to a sudden illness. The fight was to take place on the undercard of the IBO World light heavyweight championship showdown between Leon Bunn and Padraig McCrory on October 22 at the Fabriksporthalle in Frankfurt, Germany. The Bunn-McCrory fight is presented by Wasserman Boxing in association with Probellum.

The 21-years old Cinqueoncie started to feel unwell during recent training sessions, with his performance suddenly deteriorating. After an extensive medical check-up, his doctor diagnosed an infection and unusual blood values and ordered further tests to isolate the cause of the findings.

Kalle Sauerland, Global Head of Boxing at Wasserman, said: “It’s very unfortunate that Luca Cinqueoncie got sick so close to his fight, but we have to follow his doctors advise and cancel the fight. Health always comes first. We wish Luca a quick and full recovery and look forward to working with him in the future.“

Cinqueoncie’s promoter Rainer Gottwald added: ”It’s a sad, sad day for Luca. But I’m sure he will recover soon and celebrate big wins in the ring next year.“

–

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 now and can be bought via Eventim.

POMONA, CA (October 13, 2022) – Widely considered the hidden gem of the lightweight division, Ernesto “Tito” Mercado (7-0, 7 KOs), who has a perfect record of seven wins all by way of knockout, is stepping up his competition and facing former world title contender Jayson Velez (30-9-1, 21 KOs). 

The 10-round bout will serve as the co-main event of RED Boxing Promotions, October 22, 2022, at the California Education & Performing Arts Center in Ontario, California. On the line with be the NABA Silver title.

“This will be for the NABA Silver title, my first regional belt, so everyone can expect to see me let my hands fly,” said Mercado, the young phenom from Pomona, California, who has only gone ten rounds in his seven professional fights. “I have wanted to fight someone who can go rounds with me, and I am hoping Jayson Velez will be that fighter. Fighting Velez is considered a major step up fight, and this is my opportunity to show the world where I’m at against a worthy opponent.”

For Velez, who has been in the ring with Gabriel Flores Jr. and Oscar Valdez, this is his chance to regain the hype he garnered when he was coming up the rankings, as the former world title contender is looking to regain his footing in the sport.

“I feel excellent, excited about the great opportunity that this fight has presented,” said Velez. “As for the fight, I know that I will enjoy it because Ernesto is a strong challenge. We are both explosive and because of our styles, it will be an entertaining fight for the fans, and do not doubt that they will see the best of me.”

“I just want to prove I am just as good as these other fighters people say are the best fighters in the world,” said Mercado. “I am fighting the toughest opponents available and beating them up badly. I feel a lot of fighters are entitled, given favors, and the media overrates them. I am the truth, and I am going to continue to be that until the whole world takes notice.”

LONDON (October 13, 2022) – There’s unfinished business in the world of women’s boxing, and it will finally be settled in a historic doubleheader this Saturday at The O2 Arena.
 
In the main event, two-time Olympic gold medalist Claressa Shields, the WBC/WBA/IBF/Ring Magazine middleweight champion, will face longtime rival and WBO titleholder Savannah Marshall. In the co-feature, WBO/IBF/Ring Magazine champion Mikaela Mayer and WBC champion Alycia Baumgardner will clash in a junior lightweight title unification fight. 
 
Shields-Marshall and Mayer-Baumgardner will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. at 2:30 p.m. ET / 11:30 a.m. PT on ESPN+.

This is what the fighters had to say at Thursday’s press conference.
 

• Claressa Shields

“When you work hard and you put in extra work—that’s what builds confidence. People have fake confidence when they don’t work hard and just show up to sell the fight. But I know what I’m capable of, and I know what I’m going to do on Saturday night.”
 
“Of course, we’ve got to talk about her punching power. She’s going to try to come out there and land a big shot. She may want to fight on the inside or on the outside. But she just wants to be able to touch me and land. That’s really all I see. But it’s a boxing match. I may get hit in there, but if she thinks she won’t get hit, then she’s mistaken. If she thinks she is a better boxer than me, she’s mistaken. But we’re going to let her think whatever she wants to think and do whatever she wants to do because I’m going to adapt and do whatever I have to do to win and make the fight easy.”
 
“I’m not worried about Savannah Marshall. I came over here. I’m a star in America. Don’t get it twisted. I didn’t have to come over here. Nobody was ever running from her. Nobody was ever scared to come over here and fight her. We said, ‘Let’s do it.’ And you better punch as hard as you say you can. Because if you don’t have any punching power, it’s going to be a hard night for you.”
 

• Savannah Marshall

“I think she will come up short. I believe I’m a better boxer than Claressa. I believe I have always been. I cannot wait. Saturday couldn’t come quick enough. We had a 12-week camp and a five-week pushback. I’m just itching to get in there now.”
 
“She can try to knock me out. But if you’ve got it, then you’ve got it. If you haven’t got it, then you haven’t. It is what it is. Why is it hard for you to knock someone out? If you land on someone, then you hurt them. If you land on them and you’ve got pillow fists, then they’re not going to go anywhere.”
 
“There’s nothing left to say. I can’t wait for Saturday. Let’s get it on.”
 

• Mikaela Mayer
 
“This is huge for me. I’ve said that I wanted to become undisputed. There’s a reason why I’ve called out Alycia and why I’ve called out all the champions. I think that I have been pushing for the biggest fights possible. But honestly, I don’t think you could have put a card like this five years ago. It’s really shown how far women’s boxing has come.”
 
“Everything has been very strategic. That’s how I’ve been trained by Coach Al. We go in there with a cool head and execute what we’ve been working on in the gym. He hates all this. He’s sitting here shaking his head at this whole thing. He wants to get to the gym. We have to go to the gym after this, and that’s what he’s focused on. My team keeps me cool. The keep me calm and focused on the goal.”
 
“I’m expecting to deliver the performance of my life. Contrary to what she’s saying, I am constantly getting better. I still don’t even feel like I’ve hit my peak. I want to put it all together in this fight. I want to embarrass her. I want to make her sound stupid because she said a lot leading up to this fight.”
 

• Alycia Baumgardner
 
“This fight is amazing for women’s boxing. This is what we’ve been waiting to have. The entertainment is at an all-time high. This is what is building the sport. This is what is building the sport of women’s boxing. And now you have two women who don’t care for each other and who are ready to bang it out Saturday night.”
 
“My confidence is triggered by her. As I mentioned before, everyone who has fought her has come to fight her and go back home. She has a fighter in front of her who is willing to fight her, who is telling her what it is, that I will beat her, that I will break her jaw. Whatever it is, I am in her face. She does not like it. So, this is confidence that we are dealing with. It’s not really an anger standpoint. I’m a competitor at heart. I’ve been doing this since I was an eight-year-old girl. I’m excited to be at this stage and to be in a unification fight this Saturday night.”
 
“There’s no respect. At the end of the day, this is the fight game. This girl is trying to beat me. I’m trying to beat here. I have great sportsmanship, but I don’t respect her. She talks too much. And when somebody talks too much, you’ve got to shut them up, and that’s what I’m going to do on Saturday night.”
 

• Todd duBoef
 
“The 2012 Olympics in London did something for women’s boxing here. It was amazing. It rose way above the rest of the world. To come back here and extend that, and then bring the U.S. stars here—that’s going to elevate the whole sport globally.”
 
“They’re both pros, and they want to get Saturday night on. They wanted to fight. And I think they are able to communicate really well that there’s bitterness. And it’s real. And that’s what this sport is. It’s real.”

# # #

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LAS VEGAS, NV (October 13, 2022) – 28-year-old Cuban star, undefeated super lightweight Kevin Hayler Brown (1-0, 1 KO), will be back in action this Saturday at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. Brown, who recently defected from the Cuban National Boxing team earlier this year, will battle Adriano Porfirio Ramirez (12-4, 7 KOs), a rough and rugged warrior from the Dominican Republic.

Brown vs. Ramirez is scheduled for 10-rounds as the Cuban sensation is on the fast track toward a world title shot. Boxlab Promotions will be the promoter of this event.

“I came to America to become the next Cuban boxing sensation,” said Brown, who is managed by Jesse Rodriguez. “I only have one goal on my mind and that’s to destroy every opponent that steps in the ring with me. Ramirez is considered a dangerous opponent for me, but these are the type of opponents I’m looking for. A victory on Saturday will catapult me up the rankings.”

Born in Camaguey, Cuba, Brown is the son of Liuba Brown, a standout martial artist who is very popular in his homeland. Having won numerous amateur titles, Brown is on hyper speed to become a world champion.

“I’m 28-years old, so I’m in my absolute prime, and I’m ready to fight everyone,” continued Brown, who is know for his power. “I know with my amateur pedigree, being one of the best fighters to ever come out of Cuba, I’ll be a world champion if given the opportunity.”

Already making a name for himself in the boxing gyms of Las Vegas, Brown is not your typical Cuban fighter, as he likes to apply smart pressure while throwing a lot of power punches.

“I have a great people around me,” concluded Brown. “I’ve been training in Las Vegas with my head coach Bob Santos, who is one of the best boxing minds in the business. Right now, we have one of the best teams in all of boxing. I’m sparring world champions constantly, which is getting me prepared for the next level. There is no fight hungrier than me and I’m going to prove it.”

“Like Carlos Adames, Alberto Puello, Hector Garcia, who all just became world champions, Kevin Brown is a very special fighter,” stated head trainer Bob Santos. “I’m watching him dominate world class fighters in the gym. His power is insane! Right now, I would put him in with any of the top super lightweights in the world. In just his second pro fight, he’s already jumping into 10-round fights. He’s that good.” 

LIVERPOOL, OCTOBER 13 – Peter McGrail delivered a chilling big fight prediction when he came face-to-face with Alexander Espinoza for the first time ahead of Probellum Liverpool II. 

World-champion-in-the-making McGrail headlines a packed card at the Eventim Olympia on Saturday night and has vowed to make light work of the hardest fight of his professional career, in front of his raucous fans.

The co-main event sees Jazza Dickens face dangerman Lerato Dlamini for the vacant IBO world featherweight title and the pair exchanged pre-fight barbs at Thursday’s press conference.

A confident Dlamini told host Ali Drew that he plans to cause a major upset and KO his rival, which prompted Dickens to ditch the pleasantries and set the South African straight.

Big fights for McGrail and Dickens are supported by a host of talented prospects, including Joe McGrail and Steven Cairns, with the action live and free to watch on Probellum.com.

Super bantamweight star, Peter McGrail said: “I see a one-sided fight, with me hitting him loads and him not hitting me much at all. 
“I hope his training camp has gone well and good luck to him on Saturday night, because he is going to need it.”

Alexander Espinoza, known as ‘Supernova’ said: “I won’t say a round in which this fight will end but it is all about me and I am going to be the winner.  I can promise everyone a good fight.”

‘Lights Out’ Lerato Dlamini said: “I think I am going to stop Jazza in the later rounds.
“I won’t get a decision in his backyard, so I think I am going to stop him.”

Jazza Dickens, a two-time world title challenger, replied: “I was going to welcome him to Liverpool but now he’s going home with a bandage on his head!  I see me getting my arm raised and getting this win in front of a crazy crowd here in Liverpool.”

Key fighter imagery from the press conference and event artwork can be found HERE 
(Please credit Probellum if used)

To keep up to date with the latest news on Probellum Liverpool II sign up to our newsletter?or follow Probellum on?Instagram,?Twitter?and?Facebook.??? 

You can also follow our official news, results, and information account, Probellum News, on Twitter.??

QUINCY, Mass. (October 13, 2022) – Atlanta light heavyweight James “Savage” Hagler, Jr., the grandson of the late, great Marvelous Marvin Hagler, returns to New England to fight Scott “Bombz” Lampert on Thanksgiving Eve (Wednesday, November 23) in the 4-round, co-featured event on the inaugural “Jimmy Farrell Fight Night” card, presented by Granite Chin Promotions” at the Bridgewater Veterans Club in Bridgewater, Massachusetts.

The Pro-Am card will pay tribute to the late Farrell, the highly respected trainer from Quincy (MA), who recently passed away after a long battle with cancer. A share of the proceeds will be donated to Old Colony Hospice.

Hagler (3-1, 1 KO), whose last name is an obvious target, fought for the first time in the Bay State this past May in Dedham (MA), when he defeated Heitor Mangaravitte Senra by way of a 4-round unanimous decision. Bridgewater is only 7 miles from Brockton, where Hall of Famer Hagler lived and fought out of during his marvelous reign.

“Every time I fight,” Hagler, Jr. said, “my opponent is at his best because of my last name. They get bragging rights if they beat me. They get in the spotlight. I make sure I always bring my A game. I’m always fighting my opponents’ best. I’m not going to play with him. I won’t be taking him lightly. He’ll be at this best like all my opponents who know that they can make a name by beating me.

“It’s exciting for me to be fighting so close to Brockton; closer than my last fight in Massachusetts. I call Brockton my second home. I was there a lot as a kid, visiting my grandfather, and I played football for a year at Dean College.”

Hagler’s opponent, Lampert (3-6, 2 KOs), is psyched to fight Hagler, saying,. “I love it! You couldn’t watch his grandfather fight and not be a Hagler fan. I think it’s cool. The only problem is that it’s hard for my family and friends to go watch me fight on Thanksgiving Eve in Bridgewater (Lampert is from Dover Plains, New York.

“It’s going to be bombs away. They call me ‘Bombz’ for a reason. I got my nickname from my original coach, John ‘Bombz’ Carlo. I’m his protégé, but that’s also my style. I’ve also trained at Champ’s Gym in Danbury (CT). I want a dog fight like most of my fights: exciting and violent.”

“This fight has all the components to make for an old-school, high-action 4-round fight,” Granite Chin Promotions president Chris Traietti commented. “Scott brings a ton of pressure, and every punch is his fastball. Hagler looks to be more on the outside and catch guys coming in. It is the kind of fight that could have been scheduled for 3 rounds and it still most likely wouldn’t go the distance. Someone is going to catch someone; I don’t see it ending any other way.”

The main event is a 6-round confrontation between Anthony “The Gentle Savage” Andreozzi (3-2, 1 KOs), of Swansea, and Woburn’s Julien “Black Dragon” Baptiste (4-2, 2 KOs) for the vacant Massachusetts State Welterweight Championship.

Fighting on the pro undercard in 4-round bouts is Brockton heavyweight Kirk Wilmont (1-0, 1 KOs) vs. Aquilla Prote (0-1), and pro-debuting Brockton junior welterweight Stephen Davis faces an opponent to be determined.

Additional pro matches, as well as the amateur portion of the card, will soon be announced.

Card subject to change.

Tickets are priced at $60.00 (floor seats), $40.00 (standing room only), and $400.00 for ringside tables of 4 are available for purchase at  https://granite-chin-promotions.ticketleap.com.

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

NEW YORK – October 13, 2022 – Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) announced today thattop 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 on the Jake Paul vs. Anderson Silva SHOWTIME PPV^® undercard on Saturday, October 29, live from Desert Diamond Arena (formerly Gila River Arena) in Glendale, Ariz., just outside Phoenix. Tickets for the event are on sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com. 

Nieves, who previously faced unified junior bantamweight champion Naoya Inoue, met Santiago for the first time on the SHOWTIME^® developmental series, SHOBOX: The New Generation^® in August 2016. Highlytouted prospects at the time, they became top contenders in their divisions fighting to a very competitive split decision draw.  Now, ranked in the top-15 in the deep bantamweight division, Santiago and Nieves look to get back into title contention with their upcoming matchup. Santiago, who was stepping up in weight and stepping in as a last-minute replacement, out-landed NABO titleholder Nieves in power punches from rounds six to 10, but the late surge was not enough for the Tijuana, Mexico native to win the contest with the bout resulting in judges’ scores of 96-94 Nieves 96-94 Santiago, 95-95.

The now 26-year-old Santiago (26-3-5, 13 KOs) also showed his potential in September 2018 when he fought former IBF 115-pound World Champion Jerwin Ancajas to a split-draw (118-110 Santiago, 116-112 Ancajas, 114-114). Santiago, who seldom breaks training camp, suffered his first defeat in eight years last November when he squared off against unbeaten bantamweight contender Gary Antonio Russell on SHOWTIME.

“This is an amazing opportunity for me. I’m thankful to my promoter Paco Damián, MVP and SHOWTIME for making it possible,” said Santiago. “It means a lot to me. Antonio Nieves is a world class fighter and I have a lot of respect for him, but we have unfinished business and this time I am not leaving it in the judges’ hands. I’m training very hard and I’m confident that after this fight we will be in line to face any of the great world champions in my division.”

Nieves (20-3-2, 11 KOs), of Cleveland, Ohio, displayed his superior boxing skills and hand speed in his last outing against previously unbeaten Filipino prospect Judy Flores earning a convincing unanimous decision victory. Known for his technical skills and ability to measure his opponents, Nieves has never shied away from top opposition. He suffered his first defeat via controversial decision at the hands of Nikolai Potapov on SHOBOX^® in 2017.

“Jake is from my hometown, and I plan to represent Cleveland alongside him on the world stage. This fight will steal the show: it’s Puerto Rico versus Mexico all over again,” said Nieves, whose parents are Puerto Rican. “We fought a super close fight six years ago and since then we both have had similar paths. We have both fought world-class competition, we have both fought for the world championship. We both know that a win here will catapult us back into world-title contention. We both have lost some very close decisions along the way. This fight won’t end in a decision. I’m the bigger man. I will walk him down. He won’t last 10 rounds this time. I’m not leaving this up to the judges.”

In a battle of undefeated heavyweights, Jeremiah “Dream Land” Milton (6-0, 5 KOs) will square off against Quintin Sumpter (5-0, 3 KOs) in a six-round bout in the non-televised portion of the Silva vs. Paul undercard. Milton, a former sparring partner of heavyweight titleholder Tyson Fury and contenders Luis Ortiz and Joe Joyce, and Sumpter, a former college football player, were originally scheduled to meet on August 6 on the Paul vs. Hasim Rahman Jr. undercard before the fight was canceled due to Rahman’s inability to meet the contracted weight.

The Las Vegas-based 6-foot-4 Milton turned pro in August 2020 with a devastating 75-second, first-round knockout of Dennis Vance Jr. The Tulsa, Okla., native was a 2019 U.S. Olympic Trials Silver Medalist. He will face a sizeable challenge in the six-foot, 220-pound Brooklyn born and raised Sumpter who previously played defensive end for the Northeastern State University NCAA Division II football team. Sumpter now trains out of Pittsfield, Mass. Also in action that night, will be top prospect Eliezer Silva (1-0), of Los Angeles, Calif., who made a successful pro debut against Terry Roscoe in a four-round bout last September. He will square off against Phillip “Fresh” Carmouche (2-3), of Las Vegas, in a four-round super welterweight bout.

International superstar and serial risk-taker Paul will face the biggest challenge of his career when he takes on UFC legend and accomplished boxer Silva in an eight-round bout at a catchweight of 187 pounds. In the co-main event, 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. In undercard action, 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. 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 to open the pay-per-view.

The Paul vs. Silva event is co-produced by SHOWTIME PPV and Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), a company founded by Paul and Nakisa Bidarian. Holden Boxing will be the licensed promoter of the event, and Paul and Bidarian will serve as executive producers for the event. The pay-per-view telecast is produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, follow #PaulSilva, follow on Twitter via @JakePaul, @ShowtimeBoxing and @MostVpromotions, on Instagram via @JakePaul, @ShowtimeBoxing and @MostValuablePromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.

Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly owned subsidiary of Paramount, owns and operates the premium service SHOWTIME^®, which features critically acclaimed original series, provocative documentaries, box-office hit films, comedy and music specials and hard-hitting sports. SHOWTIME is available as a stand-alone streaming service across all major streaming devices and Showtime.com, as well as via cable, DBS, telco and streaming video providers. SNI also operates the premium services THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ and FLIX^®, as well as on demand versions of all three brands. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV^®. For more information, go to www.SHO.com. 

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CES photo by Will Paul

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, October 13, 2022
CES Boxing doubleheader extravaganza November 19 features Rocky Marciano Tournament finals followed by live professional boxing at Ballys Twin River Lincoln

PROVIDENCE, RI – The region’s best and brightest return to the mecca of New England boxing Saturday, November 19 for a special separate-admission, two-part event hosted by CES Boxing at Ballys Twin River Lincoln Casino Resort.

The day begins at 1 pm with an unprecedented amateur boxing showcase as CES teams with Cappiello Promotions to bring the finals of the 26th Annual Rocky Marciano Tournament of Champions to Ballys. At 7, live professional boxing takes center stage headlined by the long-awaited return of world-rated super featherweight contender; Providence, RI, resident; and newest addition to the CES stable, Toka Kahn Clary.

Tickets for both events will be available for purchase online at CESFights.com.

“This is an exciting, and long-overdue collaboration between two of the most influential entities in New England boxing: CES and the Rocky Marciano Tournament of Champions,” said CES Boxing president and CEO Jimmy Burchfield Sr. “We’re proud to work with Cappiello Promotions to host this prestigious event at one of New England’s most beautiful venues for live boxing. This is a unique opportunity to witness boxing’s present and future in the same day at the same venue. Fights fans are in for a real treat.”

Launched by Richard Cappiello, longtime boxing promoter and matchmaker, and his brother, former pro and renowned trainer Michael Cappiello, the Rocky Marciano Tournament honors the legacy of its namesake, the undefeated Hall of Fame heavyweight from Brockton, MA, and relative of the Cappiello family.

This year’s tournament begins Saturday, October 15 and concludes November 19 with approximately 18 champions crowned in various weight classes. The tournament draws fighters from all across New England and features additional bouts on October 22 and November 5, all of which will be held at the Bridgewater Vets Club until the November 19 finals.

In addition to the Marciano tournament, North Providence, RI, native and Southern New England Golden Gloves champion Victoria D’Errico and 156-pounder Will Guilmette will compete on the amateur card in separate bouts.

The pro card is headlined by Kahn Clary, the 30-year-old southpaw long considered one of the sport’s elite fighters at both 126 and 130 pounds. Born in Liberia, Kahn Clary credits boxing with shaping his future both in and out of the ring. He briefly lived in Philadelphia with his father and younger sister until his father was tragically killed in a shooting. After moving to Providence with his sister, Kahn Clary bounced in and out foster homes and found himself on the streets until he discovered boxing. Andrea Watson and Ron Clary, his adoptive parents, set him on the right path and Kahn Clary breezed through the amateur circuit with 131 wins – including a gold-medal performance at the 2010 National Golden Gloves Tournament – until he turned pro in 2012.

Kahn Clary now boasts a 28-3 record with 19 KOs, which includes stints as both the NABF featherweight and super featherweight champion in addition to impressive wins over Carlos Manuel Reyes and John Vincente Moralde and high-level showcases against undefeated Kid Galahad and two-division world champion Shakur Stevenson.

Kahn Clary will be joined November 19 by the return of undefeated super middleweight Francis Hogan of Weymouth, MA; hard-hitting heavyweight Sean Bey of Providence; featherweight Michael Valentin, also from Providence, undefeated Providence middleweight James Maner; and East Providence, RI, lightweight Elijah Peixoto.

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

INFORMATION

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

Bally’s Twin River Lincoln Casino Resort, located in Lincoln, RI, is the state’s largest gaming and entertainment venue as well as its top tourist and cultural attraction. Formerly known as Lincoln Park and then Twin River Casino Hotel, the renovated facility offers 162,000 square-feet of gaming space with over 5,000 gaming positions. The casino operates over 4,100 slot machines and virtual table games (including blackjack and roulette), as well as 125 live table games including blackjack, roulette, craps, sports betting, and more. This unique gaming facility also hosts simulcasting of the best thoroughbred and greyhound racing from around the country, a 29,000+ square foot Twin River Event Center with headline entertainment, free concerts at the Lighthouse Bar, incredible food and drinks at Fred & Steve’s Steakhouse, and authentic Italian cuisine at Jerry Longo’s Meatballs & Martinis. The hotel at Bally’s Lincoln features 136 rooms and suites. Amenities include an indoor pool with a stone fireplace feature wall, multiple meeting space, a fitness center and an outdoor courtyard off the pool and lobby that is also available for special events. Guests may access the hotel from the casino’s north entrance.

Undefeated Icelandic heavyweight Kolbeinn “The Ice Bear” Kristinsson roared back to life last Saturday (October 8) with a second-round demolition of South American former world title challenger Santander Silgado Gelez at the Tennis Center in Delray Beach, Florida.

Appearing on a card presented by promoter Joseph Samara, Kristinsson moved his record to 13-0, 7 KOs by lowering the boom on Gelez (31-14, 25 KOs) at the 1: 45 mark of the second.

The 6? 6? and 253-lb “Ice Bear” was returning from a mostly Pandemic-induced layoff of nearly three years but was able to sharpen up in camp with UK-based heavyweights Joseph Parker and Tyson Fury, and partially under the tutelage of elite trainer Javan “SugarHill.”

“Felt great to get in the ring again and get the job done,” said the victorious Kristinsson, post-fight. “I’m excited to get back to work and want to fight again before the end of the year, so I can rack up some knockouts!”

The well-known Steward says he’s happy with what he saw from the Icelandic strongman from Gardabaer.

“I thought it was a very satisfying performance for being out so long,” said Steward. “He did everything I asked of him. I asked him to step up the pressure and that’s what he went in and did. We spent a week together working in Florida and he was sparring right up until the weigh-in. It was very beneficial for him to get that win.”

Kristinsson’s promoter, Dmitriy Salita, says he’s going to grant the Icelandic giant’s wish to be more active.

“The Ice Bear looked great for having been out as long as he was,” said Salita. “I see the improvements he’s made in technique and strength and I’ll be working hard to get him back in the ring as soon as possible and keep him busy as he works his way up the ladder to becoming Iceland’s first heavyweight champion.”
ABOUT SALITA PROMOTIONS:

Salita Promotions was founded in 2010 by Dmitriy Salita, a professional boxer and world-title challenger who saw the need for a promotional entity to feature boxing’s best young prospects and established contenders in North America and around the world. Viewers watching fighters on worldwide television networks including Showtime, HBO, ESPN, Spike TV, Universal Sports Network, UFC Fight Pass, DAZN, ESPN+ and MSG have enjoyed Salita Promotions fight action in recent years. We pride ourselves on offering our fighters opportunities inside and outside the ring. Salita Promotions looks forward to continuing to grow and serve the needs of fight fans around the globe.

Check the Salita Promotions YOUTUBE CHANNEL for regular updates of the modern world’s greatest fighters, contenders and prospects in action.

LONDON, OCTOBER 13 – Paul Butler goes in search of boxing immortality in December when he faces Naoya Inoue for the undisputed world bantamweight title. 

The WBO champion tackles Japanese hero Inoue, at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, on Tuesday, December 13 on a historic night for the sport, promoted by Ohashi Promotion and Teiken Promotions in association with Probellum. 

Inoue holds the IBF, WBA and WBC belts and wants to clean up the division before moving up in weight – but two-time world champion Butler holds the missing piece of the puzzle. 

And the fighter from Ellesmere Port, in the UK, heads to the Land of the Rising Sun, fully intent on becoming boxing’s first undisputed bantamweight champion in half a century and scoring one of the biggest away wins by a British fighter ever. 

Paul Butler said: “I’ve been boxing for over 20 years and all the successes and set-backs have led me here, to the biggest fight of my career, with the biggest prize in the sport on offer. 

“I am under no illusions as to the size of the task that faces me, but I have been going to bed dreaming of becoming the undisputed bantamweight champion of the world. 

“Inoue is a phenomenal fighter but not one person should be underestimating me, my skills, or my resolve.  I am going to Japan to write my name into the history of our sport.” 

Key fighter imagery and event artwork can be found HERE 
(Please credit Probellum if used) 

Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum, said: “It does not get any bigger than this, but Paul Butler is ready to carve out history, cause a seismic upset and return home as the undisputed world bantamweight champion. 

“We all appreciate how good Naoya Inoue is, we have seen it repeatedly, but the people who really know Paul, know what he is made of and the greater the challenge, the greater his performance will be.” 

To keep up to date with the latest news on Butler vs Inoue sign up to our newsletter?or follow Probellum on?Instagram,?Twitter?and?Facebook.???? 

You can also follow our official news, results, and information account, Probellum News, on Twitter.?

MELBOURNE, Australia (Oct. 13, 2022) — Undisputed lightweight world champion Devin “The Dream” Haney first came to Australia in June with one world title. He returned home with all the belts and is intent on repeating his virtuoso performance against George Kambosos Jr.

Haney will defend the titles in enemy territory against Kambosos on Sunday afternoon (Saturday evening prime time in the U.S.) at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne.

The two combatants faced off yesterday, but at today’s open workout, they were kept separate. Haney (28-0, 15 KOs) received a warm reception from the local fans, who witnessed him unifying all the titles just four months earlier at Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium. Kambosos (20-1, 10 KOs) enters the rematch as the betting underdog and hopes to recapture the magic that propelled him to a stunning title-winning effort over Teofimo Lopez last year.

Haney-Kambosos 2 will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m PT.

Undercard bouts — streaming live and exclusively on ESPN+ at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT — include twin brothers Jason & Andrew Moloney in separate contests. Jason Moloney will take on Thailand’s Nawaphon Kaikanha in a final eliminator for the WBC bantamweight world title, while Andrew Moloney battles the Dominican contender Norbelto Jimenez for the vacant WBO International junior bantamweight strap.

This is what the main event fighters had to say.

Devin Haney

“We’ve definitely made some adjustments, learned from the first fight. Obviously, we all know he’s going to come with a different game plan. The same things that worked in the first fight may not work as good in the second fight, so we’re preparing for it all.”

“We just have to see how the fight plays out. We’re prepared to win by any means necessary, so that’s our main focus is winning. If a knockout comes, then it comes, but my main focus is winning.”

“He definitely should’ve been humbled, but at the end of the day, his head got big. It got to his head.”

“I enjoy the process, every step of it. I enjoy the whole process, and I’m excited for the press conference tomorrow and the weigh-ins.”

“He’s making up every excuse in the book. He said he wasn’t going to, but now they’re saying I was holding, it was this, it was that. Whatever you want to say, he can keep saying it. The talk doesn’t matter. I’m going to go in there and do what I’m going to do regardless. No matter what referee is in there, no matter where the fight is at, it doesn’t matter.”

George Kambosos Jr.

“I feel a lot of energy, very relaxed, very zoned in. Like I said, I’m a fighter. I’m not trying to do anything else. It’s going great, going fantastic. We’re very focused. We’re very zoned in and hungry for victory. That’s all.”

“When I went back to that dressing room {after the first fight}, my mindset changed right away. I’m a challenger again. I wasn’t upset. I’m in a familiar place, and this is where I’ve been most of my career. Doubt me? No problem. I love when they doubt me. I love when they think I have no chance. That’s OK. We’ll prove them wrong once again.”

“We’ve come with a fantastic game plan, so we’re ready for whatever. If he brings whatever style, if he’s the same style, if he brings somehow an Arturo Gatti kind of style, which I doubt very highly, let’s see. Let’s see on Sunday what he tries. Man to man, let’s fight!”

“I have a smaller team. I don’t have too much of an entourage, but I got a team I’m very comfortable with. I’m taking it old school. I’m going back to what got me there.”

Follow the Top Rank YouTube Channel for daily fight week content ahead of Haney-Kambosos 2. Haney and Kambosos recently sat down for the first time since their June showdown. Click here to see what they had to say.

Saturday, October 15

 ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ (10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT)

 
Devin Haney vs. George Kambosos 2, 12 rounds, Haney’s Undisputed Lightweight World Championship

ESPN+ (8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT)

Jason Moloney vs. Nawaphon Kaikanha, 12 rounds, WBC Bantamweight Final Eliminator

Adrian Sosa vs. John Mannu, 6/5 rounds, junior welterweight (SWING BOUT)

OFF TV (6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT)

Hemi Ahio vs. Faiga Opelu, 8 rounds, heavyweight

Lorenzo Simpson vs. Marcus Heywood, 8 rounds, middleweight

# # #

ABOUT TOP RANK
Innovation has been the standard at Top Rank since it was established in 1973 by Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum. The boxing industry’s leading promotional company, Top Rank has shaped, developed, and promoted the careers of top international pay-per-view superstars and Hall of Famers, including Muhammad Ali, Marvelous Marvin Hagler, Thomas Hearns, Roberto Duran, George Foreman, Sugar Ray Leonard, Oscar De La Hoya, Miguel Cotto, Manny Pacquiao, Floyd Mayweather Jr., Erik Morales, Timothy Bradley, Vasiliy Lomachenko and Tyson Fury.

Known for creating strategic collaborations between athletes, sponsors, and television networks, Top Rank has been an architect of boxing’s global growth by staging high-profile events in landmark settings around the world, including Madison Square Garden, MGM Grand Garden Arena, Wembley Arena, Yankee Stadium, Radio City Music Hall, and AT&T Stadium. Top Rank has also been the leader within the boxing industry in creating unforgettable in-arena experiences for fans and embracing 21st century technological advancements to distribute world-class fights and shoulder programming across a variety of platforms.

ABOUT DIBELLA ENTERTAINMENT 
In May of 2000, Lou DiBella launched DiBella Entertainment (DBE), a full-service sports and entertainment company, which has become one of the most successful promotional entities in boxing. Serving as matchmaker, television distributor, marketing advisor, and promoter, DiBella has developed an exciting stable of championship caliber, world-class fighters, such as Sergio Martinez, Bernard Hopkins, Jermain Taylor, Micky Ward, Deontay Wilder, and George Kambosos, among others. DBE clearly established itself as an industry leader with the successful launch of its monthly-televised “Broadway Boxing” series in November 2003. Prior to becoming a promoter, DiBella held an 11-year tenure as the Senior Vice President of HBO Sports. While at HBO, DiBella created and established the highly successful “Boxing After Dark” series, which featured some of the sport’s greatest fights. He is also a well-known fixture in the film industry, having worked as an Executive Producer for the film “Love Ranch”, as an Associate Producer on “The Fighter”, and making his acting debut in “Rocky Balboa”. He also produced or executive produced numerous documentaries, such as Viva Baseball!, Magic Man, Maravilla, Larry Flynt for President, and Tapia. The President and Managing General Partner for the Richmond Flying Squirrels baseball team, DiBella proudly wears his 2010, 2012 and 2014 World Series rings, as his team is the class AA affiliate to the San Francisco Giants. In 2017, DiBella also became the CEO and Managing Owner of the Montgomery Biscuits baseball team, the AA-affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays. DiBella was elected into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2020 and was inducted in June 2022, as well as the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame in 2014 and the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame in 2015.

ABOUT VISIT VICTORIA
Visit Victoria is the State of Victoria’s primary tourism, business and major events company, leading the sector in creating, curating and communicating Victoria’s inspiring experiences to maximise visitation. Established in July 2016, Visit Victoria brings the best of Tourism Victoria, Victorian Major Events Company and Melbourne Convention Bureau under one brand that capitalises on commercial opportunities in an increasingly competitive and dynamic global tourism market. The team operates in a collaborative and agile environment that informs, connects and partners with industry and the Victorian State Government to amplify Victoria’s profile.

About TEG Sport
TEG Sport is owned by TEG, a leading global live entertainment, ticketing and technology business which operates worldwide out of seven country offices. TEG also includes TEG Live, TEG Experiences, TEG Dainty, TEG MJR, TEG Van Egmond, Laneway Festival, Handsome Tours, TEG Rockefeller, Qudos Bank Arena, Ticketek, Ticketek Marketplace, Eventopia, Softix, TicketCharge, TicketWorld, Ticketek Singapore and Ovation.

ABOUT DUCO EVENTS
Duco Events is one of Asia Pacific’s leading events management and sports promotion companies, responsible for delivering high profile sporting events such as The Battle of Brisbane – Manny Pacquiao vs Jeff Horn, the NRL Auckland Nines, the Brisbane Rugby Tens and the T20 Black Clash alongside numerous other innovative sports, corporate and entertainment events throughout New Zealand and Australia including Synthony – a breath-taking fusion of electronic dance music, live orchestra, DJ’s, vocalists and immersive visuals.

Life is Better Live. Whether it’s Sport, Concerts, Musicals, Theatre or Exhibitions, nothing beats the live experience! For more information www.teg.com.au.

MELBOURNE, Australia (Oct. 14, 2022) — Undisputed lightweight world champion Devin “The Dream” Haney and former champion George Kambosos Jr. re-exchanged “pleasantries” at the press conference two days shy of their showdown at Rod Laver Arena.

The combatants talked some trash, but it was Haney’s father/trainer, Bill Haney, who stole the show. He presented Kambosos (20-1, 10 KOs) — or at least attempted to — a copy of Sun Tzu’s “The Art of War,” a reference to Kambosos post-weigh-in mind tricks before their first bout back in June. Kambosos was none too pleased and knocked the book off the dais.

Haney (28-0, 15 KOs) dominated Kambosos to unify all the belts at Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium, and a little more than four months later, the world’s top lightweights will do it again.

Haney-Kambosos 2 will be broadcast live in prime time SATURDAY (taking place Sunday afternoon local time) on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m PT.

Undercard bouts — streaming live and exclusively on ESPN+ at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT — include twin brothers Jason & Andrew Moloney in separate contests. Jason Moloney will take on Thailand’s Nawaphon Kaikanha in a final eliminator for the WBC bantamweight world title, while Andrew Moloney battles the Dominican contender Norbelto Jimenez for the vacant WBO International junior bantamweight strap. 

In a special world title attraction, Cherneka Johnson (14-1, 6 KOs) will make the first defense of her IBF junior featherweight world title against Australian two-time world champion Susie “Q” Ramadan (29-3, 12 KOs).

At Friday’s press conference, this is what the fighters had to say.

Devin Haney

“It’s great to be back here in Melbourne. I made history here. And it won’t be no different on the 16th. The name of the game is to hit and not get hit. I’m a student of the game. So, that’s what I follow. I might be one of the best defensive fighters in boxing. But on the 16th, I’ll look to show more offense.”
 
“They’ve been quiet. But every time they open their mouth, it’s a different excuse. They talk this quiet stuff, but they keep making up excuses. Now it’s the coach. Then it was the referee, because I was holding. Every excuse in the book. But why did you fire your whole team? If you truly felt like I was holding too much, why did you fire your whole team?”
 
“There are a lot of big fights out there to be made. I’ve been calling out Loma for a while. But my main focus is on getting past George Kambosos. Then we can talk about what’s next.”

George Kambosos Jr.

“I’m physically and mentally focused on this fight right now. Nothing else matters. Whatever was said or whatever was done…I’m zoned in on this moment. Nothing will break my focus. I’m not interested in anything else. I’m interested on Sunday and what I do then.”
 
“The changes have been made. You learn from your losses. You come back a better fighter. So, I’ve made my changes. I’ve looked at certain things. I’ve gone back to my roots as well. We’re just focused. I’m not going to give anything away. I’m just zoned in. Sunday is when I’ll do my talking. We’ll see who laughs last.”
 
“He’s got a fantastic jab. But we have put in fantastic work to not only evade his jab, but whatever he tries to bring. It doesn’t matter. Did I let him jab too much? He’s got a great jab. But that’s why boxing is the sweet science.”

Bill Haney (Devin Haney’s Father/Trainer)

“Going into the first fight, we knew that George possessed things that are on an elite level. Our preparation was to outbox him. We wanted to do that and we wanted to do that convincingly based on the unknown. We didn’t know what we were going to get in Australia. To our surprise, we’ve met some wonderful people. The Australian government has been totally supportive. We feel this is a second home. Unlike the Kambosos’ over there, who make excuses after excuses. And we’re all tired of hearing them.”
 
“Devin gave me one job today. He told me to go out and get this for George. It’s
‘The Art of War’ [by Sun Tzu]. If you can hand it to him over there. We want him to be well prepared and not misinformed. What excuse is he going to have on the 16^th?”

Jason Moloney

“He has a very impressive record. You don’t become ranked as number 2 in the world without being a very good fighter. I’ve prepared for a very tough fight. He’s obviously had his whole career in Thailand. He’s been very successful over there. But I feel that he’s been a big fish in a small pond. I plan to welcome him into the world stage and show him the next level in this sport.”
 
“This is my dream, to fight for a world title and become world champion. And this is the final hurdle. I’ve been working extremely hard. I’m very motivated to go out there and win this fight.  I’ll do whatever takes. You saw a great performance last time, and this time will be even better.”

Nawaphon Kaikanha

“This is my first time fighting as a professional outside of Thailand. I’m very excited. At the same time, I feel honored that I’ve gotten the chance to fight in Australia in this beautiful country. It’s a very hospitable country, and I’m happy to be here.”
 
“All those 46 knockouts were not a product of luck. I worked hard for it. I trained hard for it. It’s the same for this fight. I have been training really hard for this fight.”

Andrew Moloney

“This is the perfect fight for me right now. I’ve had a very busy 14 months. This is my fifth fight in 14 months. I’ve worked my way up the rankings. And, Norbelto is ranked at number two in the world, and I feel like this is the perfect fight for me. I’m going to take his ranking. I’m going to put on the best performance of my career this Sunday and earn myself the opportunity to fight for a world title next.”

Norbelto Jimenez

“I have had two world title opportunities. I’m looking forward to this third opportunity. I have seen Moloney fight. I know him very well. I have a good record, thanks to God and to my manager, Belgica Peña, president of Shuan Boxing, and we’re coming for more.”

Cherneka Johnson

“Susie has a lot of experience. She’s been in the game for a long time. She’s paved the way for women’s boxing here in Australia, so I’m just excited to take on this match.”

Susie Ramadan

“I’ve fought in Melbourne for a very long time. Obviously, I’ve had a couple of fights overseas. But I’ve won the WBC and the IBF title here in Melbourne, so everything comes in threes, I guess. So, I’m really looking forward to it.”

Follow the Top Rank YouTube Channel for daily fight week content ahead of Haney-Kambosos 2.

Saturday, October 15

 ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ (10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT)

 
Devin Haney vs. George Kambosos 2, 12 rounds, Haney’s Undisputed Lightweight World Championship

ESPN+ (8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT)

Jason Moloney vs. Nawaphon Kaikanha, 12 rounds, WBC Bantamweight Final Eliminator

Adrian Sosa vs. John Mannu, 6/5 rounds, junior welterweight (SWING BOUT)

OFF TV (6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT)

Hemi Ahio vs. Faiga Opelu, 8 rounds, heavyweight

Lorenzo Simpson vs. Marcus Heywood, 8/6 rounds, middleweight

Former world champion Heather Hardy won a six-round unanimous decision over Calista Silgado in a lightweight bout in the headline bout at Sony Theater in New York City.

Hardy, 132.8 lbs of Brooklyn won by scores of 60-54 and 58-56 twice and is now 23-2. Silgado, 130.8 lbs of Colombia is 20-16-3.

Heather Hardy: “Silgado is a veteran who has fought everybody. I expected this kind of fight, and I prepared for it. I had a lot of rust to shake off.

“I’m going to take the weekend to unpack the emotions surrounding the fight. It was lot to digest, being my first one with a new team, my first one since turning 40 and my first one with no kid at home. I have decisions to make moving forward but they can wait until Monday.”

Nadim Salloum stopped previously undefeated Leandro Capozucco in the final scheduled round of their super middleweight bout.

In round six, Salloum landed a hard flurry on a beat down Capozucco and the fight was stopped at 1:30.

Salloum, 167.8 lbs of Brooklyn via Lebanon is 9-1 with four knockouts. Cappozucco, 166.6 lbs of Argentina is 4-1.

Andy Dominguez Velasquez stopped Ricardo Caraballo in the opening round of a scheduled eight-round flyweight bout.

Velasquez dropped Caraballo with a vicious right hand. Caraballo was hurt, and ate a flurry of power punches that put him on the deck and the bout was stopped at 2:36.

Velasquez, 110 lbs of Las Vegas is 8-0 with six knockouts. Caraballo of Florida is 7-2.

Ivan Golub stopped Wesley Tucker at the end of round four of a scheduled 10-round junior middleweight bout.

In round two, Tucker dropped Golub with a hard counter right hook. In round four, Golub had a dominant round as he landed several flurries of hard punches that rocked Tucker. In between rounds the fight was halted in the comer.

Golub, 150.6 lbs of Brooklyn, NY via Ukraine is 21-1 with 16 knockouts. Tucker, 152 lbs of Toledo, OH is 15-4.

Petros Ananyan stopped Paulo Cesar Galdino in round six of a scheduled eight-round welterweight bout.

In round five, Galdino began to bleed from his nose. Ananyan dominated the action and battered a game Galdino until the bout was stopped at

Ananyan, 142 lbs of Los Angeles is 17-3-2 with eight knockouts. Galdino, 140 lbs of Sao Paulo, BRA is 12-6.

GLENDALE, ARIZ. – October 13, 2022 – Elite UFC striker Uriah Hall and former NFL star running back Le’Veon Bell sized each other up and placed their names squarely in the Jake Paul sweepstakes during a virtual press conference on Thursday to preview their professional boxing match on Saturday, October 29 as part of the event headlined by Paul vs. UFC legend Anderson Silva at Desert Diamond Arena (formerly Gila River Arena) in Glendale, Ariz., just outside Phoenix. Both Hall and Bell will make their pro boxing debuts in an event co-produced by Most Valuable Promotions and SHOWTIME PPV in a four-round cruiserweight bout. But they made it clear on Thursday they view their MMA vs. NFL matchup as a prelude to a mega-fight with Paul.

“That’s the only reason why I’m here, man,” the former UFC standout Hall said to combat sports journalist and press conference host Ariel Helwani. “To fight Jake Paul.”

“This is the bridge to get the Jake Paul fight,” said the former Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Jets running back.

During the media call, Hall and Bell also went back-and-forth over who the better athlete is, whether Bell bit off more than he could chew by facing such a decorated combat sports athlete, how Hall will cope without being able to rely on his kicks in the ring, how Bell said he would help former Steelers and Bucs teammate Antonio Brown prepare for a match with Paul, and more.

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). The official promo for the event was inspired by the 1983 cult classic Scarface and was released today and is available to watch and share HERE.

Tickets for the event are on sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com.

Here is what Hall, Bell and Helwani had to say on Thursday:

URIAH HALL

“I love mixed martial arts and I love to compete. I’m a competitor. My coach called me about this and it piqued my interest. I’m just very competitive so I told him to give me some reasons to do it and he did. So that’s why I’m here. I’m the type of guy that has to be interested in something. If it’s fun and I see something that’s challenging, then I’ll do it.

“No offense but I had never heard of Le’Veon Bell till it was brought up to me. I barely watch my own sport. I didn’t know who he was, and I checked it out. Listen, at the end of the day he’s a stud at what he does and an athlete. What we’re both going out there to do is utilize that platform of a challenge. Yeah, we’re getting paid for it, but it’s a challenge. That he wants to step into that world, kudos to him. I don’t really know, but for me I’m just a competitor at heart.”

What is the reason for taking this fight?

“To fight Jake Paul [laughing]. The mind is not just focused on Jake Paul though. It’s exciting. We had some online exchanges a long time ago and I just wanted to show him what a real fight is.

“I’m here to represent myself. The world’s not going to like you. I have to look out for me at the end of the day. I’m a competitor first. From a business aspect all the other things can come with it, the limelight and all that, I don’t look at that stuff. I have blinders on and I’m just focused. I see him only. He’s in my vicinity and I have a task at hand and something to focus on. My mentality is I’d rather die [than lose] and I have that commitment to myself. I mean, you’d have to kill me. That’s my mentality.

“I don’t look at it like he’s biting off more than he can chew. I think he’s stepping out of his comfort zone. 

“MMA is just grueling on the body. I know when I’m getting ready for an MMA fight you have to train seven different disciplines…And then there’s strength training. And then you’ve got to recover and there’s days you feel like [crap] and then you have to get up and do it again the next day. It’s such a toll on your body. The best way I can explain it is you know how a dog ages like seven years. That’s how it is for a fighter. You just age faster. It’s so much pressure you put on your body. But kudos to these guys for trying to do it.

“As an athlete I just know from a competitive standpoint you want to step out of your comfort zone. Look at Deron Williams. He’s a basketball player and a wrestler and he did it. He had fun with it.  

“Whatever he brings, I have to adjust. In mixed martial arts if someone’s kicking the crap out of me, I’ve got to adjust and punch him or take him down, or vice versa. And that’s why I love mixed martial arts so much. There are just so many other attributes. I feel like boxing is so one-dimensional. You know what to expect. Granted, some people are faster with their hands. But I know he’s fast, and I’m fast. I know he hits hard, and I hit hard too. So I think it comes down to whoever goes out there and imposes their will.

“I’m happy for Anderson. He actually texted me when he found out I was on the card and he was like, ‘Man, I’m so happy I’m going to see you.’ My goal was to train with (him), and I never got the chance and I’ve always wanted to do that. We’ve agreed to do that after this fight. Anderson is just so unique. He’s so dynamic and so smooth in there. I feel like he’s more of a boxer. I watch him move, and I learn everything from this guy. Because he was my hero at one time, and he still is. Anderson was the one who gave me the advice that if you think you’re old, you’re old. It’s a mindset.”

LE’VEON BELL

“This is something that I’ve been wanting to do for the past two or three years. Obviously, I’ve been playing football but once the fight happened with Adrien Peterson – not long after I was on the show with Jake Paul, and he was talking about fighting another running back. And I was like, ‘No, I don’t want to fight another running back.’ So, he brought up Uriah Hall’s name and I thought that would be a great opponent for me, a guy who’s been spectacular in his profession. To step in the ring and move around with him, I knew it would be a great opportunity for me to test my skills and see how good I really am. I didn’t want to keep fighting the same level of guys. I wanted to keep upping the level and Uriah Hall is a great opponent.

“A lot of people feel that I’m biting off more than I can chew. But a lot of people don’t know how seriously I’m taking this because they don’t know exactly how hard I’ve been working. I think it’s going to be a great test and we’ll see what happens but I’m excited.

“Like he said, it’s going to be a great challenge for him [switching to boxing] because a lot of things he was great at, like kicking – he obviously can’t do in boxing. He’s still a great striker, using his hands so he’s taking on a challenge and he’s going to be ready, and I feel like the same with me. I know he’s going to be prepared and ready and he’s going to be in shape, so I have to up my level.

“I feel like I’m one of the better athletes walking around this planet. I’m known for football but even when I was playing football, I was also playing basketball. I’m one of the best basketball players you’ll probably ever meet but people wouldn’t know that because I’m not in the NBA but that’s just how I feel. Anything I pick up and do, I catch on pretty quick, other than golf. But everything else I’ve been the cream of the crop because I get addicted to it and lock it in quickly.

“I feel like I have to handle business with Uriah [to get the Jake Paul fight]. But at some point, yeah [I want that fight]. But mine’s not just limited to Jake Paul.

After hearing Hall admit he used his legs against a boxer inside the ring during sparring and if he’s concerned Hall will do the same October 29

“Yeah, for real. I’m like damn. I don’t know how to defend kicks. I haven’t practiced that. But I know he’s a professional and he will control himself. But if there’s something you’ve done your entire life, it still will be in his head to [do] it. It’s going to be a tough challenge for him. I know that. But I’m not trying to defend leg kicks and sweeps [laughing].

“I feel great physically and I feel like I can do [boxing] for years to come. I don’t know exactly how long but I know it’s not going to be a one-off or a two-off. I’ll be around for a minute, continually trying to get better and find new opponents and sharpen my skills.

“Hands down preparing for a fight [is tougher than preparing for a football game]. Football camps were hard and tough on my body, but that was before I knew about boxing camp and understanding how tough and intense the boxing workouts were. That’s every day. I would say boxing for sure [is tougher].

“This is a much tougher challenge [than Peterson] because Hall’s been fighting for 17 years. When I fought Adrian Peterson, there were times when I thought he was a little timid because maybe it was his first fight. But I don’t think Uriah will be that way. I feel Uriah will be more confident because he’s been facing fighters for 17 years. He’s been hit before, not just by punches but by kicks. I have a guy who’s actually trying to fight me back.

“That feeling was crazy [of knocking someone out]. I had games where I had 200 yards and three touchdowns but that feeling that I had of knocking someone out tops the cake over any initial feeling I ever had in football. Hands down…I’m done with the football thing because I can’t go back and forth with football and boxing. It’s so hard to try and box and to still do football. Boxing is the kind of thing you have to be all the way in.

“Jake from his first fight to this fight, he’s gotten better each fight. He’s continually gotten sharper. He’s taking the sport seriously. He’s not a guy who’s just talking and obviously Silva is going to be a great test for him. Silva has been doing this for years. He’s a legend so it’s going to be a great challenge for Jake. I’m looking forward to watching it.

“In 2016 or 2017, I started using boxing as an extra workout for football. Over that time, [I went] from doing it once a week to twice a week, to eventually years down the line sparring and becoming more invested in it, I started falling in love with it and as time went on — I started to realize I was good at it.

“Me and [former Steelers and Bucs teammate Antonio Brown] stay in touch all the time. He almost walked me out for my last fight. I would work out with AB [if he ever faced Paul]. For sure.”

ARIEL HELWANI

“I think Uriah Hall is a tremendous striker. I think he is appropriately the betting favorite going into this fight. I think it’s going to be interesting and I think a lot of people are curious to see when his kicks and his knees aren’t available, how’s it going to look? Clearly, Le’Veon has power. I think he’s an incredible athlete.

“I can’t wait for this. I think it’s going to be a really, really fun spectacle. It’s a card that has something for everyone.”

# # #

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.

BROOKLYN – October 13, 2022 – Boxing superstar and former longtime heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder and top-rated Robert “The Nordic Nightmare” Helenius went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference as the two power-punchers promised fireworks when they meet in a WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View this Saturday, October 15 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

The press conference also featured an intense verbal back and forth between former world champions and super middleweight rivals Caleb “Sweethands” Plant and Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell, who square off in a WBC Super Middleweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event of the pay-per-view telecast beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by BombZquad Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets are also available for purchase in-person at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from Barclays Center:

DEONTAY WILDER

“We were sparring partners and we respect each other, but don’t you worry, the beast will come out on Saturday night. It’s going to be fireworks for sure.

“The second phase of my career is going to be for the people. When my statue was unveiled in my hometown, it meant a lot to me, because I saw all the people who united to celebrate me and my accomplishments.

“I have tremendous respect for Robert. We’ve known each other for years. The reason I agreed to take this fight is because he’s on a winning streak. He’s been looking great. When they said this would be a title eliminator, I was excited, because if I’m going to be here, why not compete for something worth fighting for?

“There’s an electrifying energy that this arena possesses. I’ve had some of my most exciting knockouts right here. When I got off the plane, the energy just felt amazing. It almost feels like a second home to me.

“I put on my best performances here at Barclays Center. I’m not looking for anything less than another great performance. There’s a lot on the line and I think that I have the right opponent to give the fans what they want to see.

“We both have the warrior mentality. When you fight with your heart, you’re willing to go out on your shield. That’s what everyone is going to see on Saturday.

“You can’t look past Robert Helenius. I put in over 700 rounds in training camp and it’s been tremendous ever since pre-camp. We had to slow down a little bit to make sure I didn’t overtrain. You can go so many years doing the same thing over and over, but it becomes boring. The way we did this training camp was really refreshing.

“Many people have said many things to me about wanting to fight, but when the time came, they went another way. I’ve asked around about Oleksandr Usyk and I’ve been told he’s a man of his word. Upon me being victorious, we’ll see what happens.

“This whole second phase of my career is all about having fun. I always tell people that I’m happy and at peace in my life. Where I am, the grass is green. I’m just looking forward to Saturday night.”

ROBERT HELENIUS

“I’ve dedicated all my life to this sport. So this means everything to me. I did all my work so that I could bring my best self to this fight. I’m ready.

“Of course I respect his power. We’ve worked on our footwork and jabs a lot and we’ve been at it the whole year.

“I like being the underdog. It gives me more strength and more power in training camp and when we eventually get into the ring.

“I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t believe in myself. If I didn’t think that I could become the heavyweight world champion, I would have got an easier job.

“Sitting here, I don’t know what else to say. I feel like this is my time now and we’re going to give everyone a great show.

“Sparring is much different than a fight. We know that the punches are going to be for real this time. You’re going to see a smart Helenius who’s moving well in this fight.

“I don’t think about the layoffs that Deontay and I have. Sometimes I feel much better when I’ve had a lot of time off. What matters is your mentality, because if you are mentally prepared, that will make the difference.

“I’ve fought at Barclays Center before and the atmosphere is crazy. I feel like we’re going to have the same thing on Saturday night and I can’t wait.”

CALEB PLANT

“It’s been a minute since I’ve been in the ring, but after the Canelo Alvarez fight we got back to work and kept working on certain things. I’ve kept working ever since. Come Saturday night, I’m excited to show everyone what we’ve been working on.

“Leading up to this fight he’s had a lot to say about how much he doesn’t like me. But I’m not here to talk about emotions. I’m here to do a job.

“I have half the fights he has and our resumes are similar. So I’d ask, are you a bum? Because you said that all I fight are bums.

“He’s a former two-time world champion, so we’re prepared and we worked really hard for this moment. At the end of the day, I think he barks more than he bites.

“Becoming a two-time world champion would mean everything to me. I worked tirelessly my whole life to get to this point, but I have a lot more to give the fans and the sport of boxing.

“You don’t get to the world title fights without focusing on the fight in front of you. I have a fight on Saturday that I’m focused on and that’s the only thing on my mind.

“I’m looking to get my hand raised. Whatever way that it happens. It’s going to be fireworks. There’s going to be great action all night long. Everyone should tune in, because we’re going to turn up.

“I just feel like I’m going to put a whooping on him and he’ll run off into the sunset. I hope he’s fully prepared.”

ANTHONY DIRRELL

“Just don’t get on your bike Caleb. Tell me who he’s fought? He’s fought nobody. He better be ready for this.

“Being an underdog is just another way for me to make more money. That’s just people’s opinions at the end of the day, and I’m fine with it.

“I don’t play with kids. He’s a kid to me. I don’t care about his social media posts. That means nothing to me. At the end of the day, I’m going to get my hand raised.

“Sometimes I fight better when there’s emotions involved. We have different game plans for different people, because not everyone fights the same. We have a game plan with Caleb and we’re going to execute.

“SugarHill Steward is a great trainer and he’s been with me since I was a teenager. We’re really familiar with each other and that will help us.

“Caleb hasn’t shown me anything special. Period. In any fight. He’s a good boxer, but it’s nothing special. He better be ready for Saturday, because I am.

“He’s been trying to get my attention all camp. But I don’t care about him. There’s nothing he can do to me.

“Only way he retires me is if he runs around the ring until I’m old. He can’t hit. What can he do? Who has he whooped?

“We’re going in there and giving it our all. My plan is to go in there and whoop his ass.”

#         #         #

ABOUT WILDER VS. HELENIUS

Wilder vs. Helenius will see former WBC Heavyweight World Champion and boxing superstar Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder take on top-rated Robert “The Nordic Nightmare” Helenius in a WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator on Saturday, October 15 topping a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

In the co-feature, former IBF Super Middleweight Champion Caleb “Sweethands” Plant faces two-time WBC Super Middleweight Champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell in a WBC Super Middleweight Title Eliminator between 168-pound rivals.

The telecast will feature undefeated Cuban sensation Frank Sanchez battling Puerto Rican Olympian Carlos Negron in a 10-round heavyweight duel, while top bantamweight contenders Gary Antonio Russell and Emmanuel Rodriguez meet in a 12-round rematch opening the pay-per-view telecast at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepageand www.foxdeportes.com, follow #WilderHelenius, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

Los Angeles, CA (October 12, 2022) A huge crowd of Los Angeles media attended the Kick-Off Press Conference in Downtown Los Angeles to formally announce ‘The Battle of the Best’, the WBC Super Lightweight World Championship between #1 Ranked Jose ‘Chon’ Zepeda, (35-2, 27 KOs) and #2 Ranked Regis ‘Rougarou’ Prograis, (27-1, 23 KOs). They were joined by Zepeda’s trainer Rene Zepeda and Prograis’ manager Sam Katkovski. The press conference was moderated by the voice of Southern California sports, Beto Duran.

Presented by Marv Nation and produced by Legendz Entertainment, Zepeda vs. Prograisis set for Saturday, November 26 at ‘The War Grounds’, Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, CA and broadcast live on Pay-Per-View. Tickets to this sensational clash will go On-Sale This Friday, October 14 at 12:00 p.m. PT online at AXS.com.

Below are quotes from the fighters;

Jose ‘Chon’ Zepeda

“Both of us are in our prime. This is #1 vs. #2, the top two fighters in the division. We don’t get to see that very often nowadays in boxing and this shows it’s going to be a great fight. Both of us have a lot of knockouts, true punching power. I’m getting ready for hell because I know it’s going to be that type of fight. It’s a really exciting fight for the fans at the War Grounds and those watching on pay-per-view.”

“There’s not a lot of need for trash talk between us. We’ve both done our work in the ring and boxing fans know what type of fight to expect. I went through hell already with Ivan Baranchyk, Jose Ramirez and Jose Pedraza. Regis hits hard, he’s clever inside the ring and he’s a southpaw. It has all the ingredients for a great fight for the fans.”

“I wasn’t surprised at all that we got this fight. We both wanted it, we both want to become world champions. Both of us need this title, we’re 33 years old and in our prime. Whoever wins this title will have a life changing experience.”

“It’s been a long time since I’ve fought in Los Angeles and I’m looking forward to seeing a packed War Grounds on November 26 for another classic fight at this iconic venue.”

Regis ‘Rougarou’ Prograis

“I used to live in Los Angeles so I’m very comfortable here. I just can’t wait for this fight and to become a world champion. Zepeda’s a real good fighter and I already know what he’s coming with. This is a dream come true for me because I wanted to stay at 140 and become a two-time world champion. My last three fights were against ‘okay’ opposition but this is the fight to show that I’m elite. He’s a killer and I give him all the respect but I’m going to do my thing on November 26.”

“Los Angeles is one of my favorite cities in the world. To come here and fight at The War Grounds to become a two-time world champion is historic for me.”

“I’m not surprised at all this fight is happening. He wanted the fight, I wanted the fight. We both want to be champions. He fought for the belt and I thought he beat Ramirez.”

“We are two killers, I have a lot of power in both hands, he has a lot of power in both hands. And that’s what makes for an interesting fight, #1 vs. #2. No one knows who’s going to win, it’s a real 50/50 fight.”

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This can’t-miss matchup of two elite boxing stars in their prime will be available on cable, satellite, telco and streaming PPV outlets throughout the US and Canada. More details on where to order the PPV telecast will be communicated in the coming weeks.

Additional information on ‘The Battle of the Best’, including the media credential application process will be announced shortly.