Rotherham Super-Welterweight talent Junaid Bostan has signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing and will have his third professional bout on the undercard of the huge WBA Featherweight World Title clash between Leigh Wood and Mauricio Lara at the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham on Saturday September 24. 

The 20-year-old southpaw who trains under the guidance of Grant Smith at the Steel City gym in Sheffield alongside newly crowned British Super-Lightweight Champion Dalton Smith and IBF Flyweight World Champion Sunny Edwards has made a perfect start to life in the paid ranks, stopping Alexis Wernet in two rounds on his debut in March before taking out Jose Manuel Lopez Clavero in six last month.

Bostan is a double national champion and spent his earliest boxing years training under the late Brendan Ingle before teaming up with Grant Smith at the age of 12. In the amateurs he boxed for England since the age of 13 and has racked up some quality rounds of sparring with plenty of the leading names in British boxing. Managed by S-JAM Boxing and now promoted by Matchroom, Bostan believes he is in the perfect place to develop into a force at 154lbs and above. 

“I’m so excited to be signing with Eddie and Frank at Matchroom,” said Bostan. “I had several promoters interested in me but we were impressed by the vision that Matchroom had for my future. I don’t think I’ve shown my levels yet – all I want to do is work hard and reach my potential, which is becoming a World Champion and a massive star in the sport. For everything else, I’ll leave that to S-JAM and Matchroom.”

“I’m delighted to welcome fast-rising Super-Welterweight prospect Junaid Bostan to the Matchroom team,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “Junaid is a brilliant young talent and really caught our eye with his knockout win on the Smith vs. O’maison undercard in Sheffield last month. He has all of the confidence and skills to carve out a top career for himself at 154lbs. He’s been a bit of a hidden gem so far but ourselves and DAZN will give him the platform to grow into one of Britain’s new young stars.”

“Junaid is a great talent and it was no surprise that he interested a lot of promoters,” said S-JAM Boxing CEO Adam Morallee. “We are always looking at continuous improvement for all of our athletes. He has a great team in terms of training with Grant and Pearce, fitness and nutrition; and the support of the lads in the Steel City gym. With Matchroom now promoting him he has an amazing platform to grow and reach his potential. I’m really excited for his journey,”

You can follow Bostan’s journey on Instagram: jdbostan

LOS ANGELES (September 5, 2022) – Undefeated Mexican lightweight prospects Luis “Koreano” Torres (16-0, 10 KOs), rated No. 20 by the World Boxing Council (WBC), and Cesar “Torito” Gutierrez (14-0-2, 5 KOs) will throw-down September 16 in the 10-round main event on another installment of the popular “Canela Boxeo” series, presented by CANELA BOXEO, from Expo Palenque in Ciudad Obregon, Sonora, Mexico.

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Co-promoted by World Cup Boxing Series (WCBS), led by CEO Terry Hollan and promoter/matchmaker Guy Taylor, and De La O Promotions, “Canela Boxeo” is streamed live and for FREE on the third Friday night of every month, starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT, from various venues in Mexico.

The 20-year-old Torres, fighting at home out of Ciudad Obregon, is a former WBC Youth Silver Champion and reigning WBC Latino lightweight champion. His fight versus Gutierrez is a non-title bout.

“It always feels good to fight at home,” Torres said. “I have so many supporters there and I can’t wait to perform in front of them on Mexican Independence Day. I know that my opponent is very aggressive, strong and that he loves to come forward. He will definitely test me. We are both undefeated and this is exactly what our people want to see.

“This will be a fight! It can only be a real fight when you have two proud Mexicans fighting each other on this special day. I predict an exciting fight, which will continue to make my people, team, and family proud of me.”

Torres understands the potential implications associated with this fight, especially as he moves from prospect to contender, also valuing the added exposure he’ll receive fighting on CANELA.TV..

“I’m already ranked at number 20 by the WBC,” Torres noted, “I feel that after my next few fights I’ll be ready for the top 15. I’m only 20 and in no rush. Fighting on CANELA TV is such a blessing. Not only will my fight be seen in my country, but all Latinos can watch it for free. It doesn’t get any better than that!”

Torres was the first boxer signed by first-year promoter WCBS and he couldn’t be happier by the way his career is being guided.

“Being with the World Cup Boxing Series is the best move we could have made,” Torres concluded. “Terry and Guy treat us like family not fighters. Every WCBS fighter tries to help each other. We are all very close”

Highly touted Mexican prospect Marco Cota (8-0, 6 KOs) and Kevin Piedrahita (5-1, 5 KOs), of Colombia, are matched in an 8-round Special Lightweight Attraction. Cota was a standout amateur who compiled a 146-4 record, while Piedrahita is dangerous having won all of his 5 pro fights by knockout.

Also fighting on the card is super lightweight Misael “Pichon” Urias (12-1, 9 KOs), 23, in an 8-rounder vs. TBA.

Additional fights will soon be announced.

“Canela Boxeo” on CANELA.TV – LIVE, EXCLUSIVE and FREE stream — Friday, September 16th from Ciudad Obregon, Sonora, Mexico, starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT, throughout the United States, Mexico, and Latin America.

Canela.TV is available for download on Roku, Apple TV, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, as well as through linear channels on Samsung TV Plus, LG, Vizio, Plex, Distro TV and available through iTunes and Google Play. Users can find a wide variety of content, including soap operas, news, movies, television series, cooking shows, among others, through the Hispanic lens. For additional information on Canela.TV please visit: https://www.canela.tv/

“Canela Boxeo” was created by CANELA MEDIA, a leading, minority-owned technology driven company committed to redefining digital media experiences for the Hispanic Community, and World Cup Boxing Series (WCBS), led by its creators CEO Terry Holland and promoter/matchmaker Guy Taylor.

ABOUT CANELA MEDIA: Canela Media is the leading, minority-owned technology driven company offering brands a complete ecosystem to connect with multicultural audiences starting with its free streaming platform service, Canela.TV which enriches the new generation of U.S. Latinos with free access to unique, culturally relevant content. In addition to TV content, Canela Music features a unique blend of Latin music programming, featuring various genres from Latin Pop, Regional Mexican, Classics, Romantic, and more.

Canela Media reaches more than 50 million unique Hispanics across its 180+ premium Spanish-language sites. Combined with the company’s proprietary data, Canela Media possesses in-depth knowledge and understanding of how to establish meaningful and culturally relevant connections with the new mainstream- U.S. and Latin America Hispanics.

Headquartered in New York, Canela Media is ranked as the third largest Hispanic ad-focused company and the only female-and minority-owned certified digital company. For more information please visit: https://canelamedia.com/

ABOUT WORLD CUP BOXING SERIES (WCBS): World Cup Boxing Series is your passport to the best online fights you’ll ever see. WCBS is the only active tournament and team fight series in professional boxing. For years, its creator Guy Taylor has been tasked with creating tough, competitive matches for promoters eager to test their rising prospects and contenders. That same mindset has now been applied to his own latest creation, World Cup Boxing Series. For more information, please visit https://www.worldcupboxingseries.com/

INFORMATION:

Website: www.worldcupboxingseries.com, www.canela.tv

Facebook: /WorldCupBoxingSeries

Instagram: @World_Cup_Boxing_Series

Former heavyweight champion Andy Ruiz Jr. dropped Luis Ortiz three-times en-route to a 12-round unanimous decision at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles

In round two, Ruiz landed a quick and powerful right hand that sent Ortiz to the canvas. Ortiz was wobbly and went down again from a flurry of punches. Ortiz was able to steady himself and landed some hard lefts in the round.

In round seven, Ruiz floored Ortiz with a right to the top of the head. In round 11, the left eye of Ortiz began to shut. Many rounds did not have a ton of action, but when there was, both guys threw power shots with the intentions of ending the fight. Ortiz made one last final stand in the final round, but it was not enough as Ruiz won by scores of 114-111 twice and 113-112.

Ruiz landed 76 of 267 punches; Ortiz was 78 of 428.

Ruiz, 269 lbs of Imperial, CA is now 35-2. Ortiz, 245.5 lbs of Camuguay, CUB is 33-3.

“Everyone was doubting me, but I worked so hard for this fight,” said Ruiz. “Ortiz is a warrior who hits hard. I did a beautiful job boxing him around. I showed more class than I usually do just coming forward.”

“I told you I was going to be a warrior and that’s what I did,” said Ortiz. “This is Cuba vs. Mexico. This is what I live for. To everyone who said that I’m old, I gave you a war today. There are always surprises in boxing, and that’s what you got if you didn’t think I’d give it my all.”

“It was a difficult fight,” said Ruiz. “I was waiting for him to load up and countering him when he did. It was a blessing we were able to be successful.”

“If Deontay Wins in October, me and him are with the same management and we can make this fight happen,” said Ruiz Jr. “Let’s do it. Let’s get it on. I’m hungry and I want to be champion again and bring that belt back to Mexico.”

“Deontay Wilder is back and I’m always looking for great exciting fights for the fans,” said Wilder. “If Andy Ruiz Jr. is what’s next, then I’m ready to get it on.”

Isaac Cruz Takes Out Ramirez in 2

Isaac Cruz destroyed Eduardo Ramirez in round two of a scheduled 12-round lightweight bout.

In round two, Cruz landed a huge left hook that dropped Ramirez face-first.. Later in the round, Cruz landed a vicious four-point combination that sent Ramirez down again and the fight was over at 2:27.

Cruz, 135 lbs of Mexico City is 24-2-1 with 17 knockouts. Ramirez, 134.5 lbs of Los Mochis, MEX is 27-3-1.

“I was ready to win at all costs, for my family and what better way to win than here in front of all the great fans in Los Angeles,” said Cruz.”

“I lost and I have to accept that,” said Ramirez. “I’ll get better and move forward. I felt like I was fighting well and then everything turned all of a sudden. That’s just boxing. Now I’m going to rest, recover and plan my next moves going forward. But I’ll definitely be back, you can count on that.”

“We want the rematch with Gervonta Davis,” said Cruz. “That’s what these fans want. I promised the knockout tonight and we got it done.”

Mares and Flores Battle to Draw

Former world champion Abner Mares came back from a four-plus year layoff but was only to get a 10-round majority draw with Miguel Flores.

It was a high-contact fight that saw Mares fight well early, with Flores coming on late.

Mares landed 151 of 652 punches; Flores was 124 of 665.

Scores were 96-94 and 95-95 twice,

Mares, 134 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is 31-3-2. Flores, 135 lbs of Mirella, MEX is 25-4-1.

“Obviously it had been over four years, so I was a little off with my timing and a little sluggish,” said Mares. “But I felt good and I thought I was landing the more powerful shots throughout.” 

“It was a good fight and obviously I thought that I pulled it off,” said Flores. “I know we’re in his hometown and he’s a veteran so it is what it is. He was trying to pot shot me, but I was catching most of it. He got me with a couple good shots early on but I felt like I was in control after the fourth round.”

“It was a great atmosphere,” said Flores. “It’s hard to not let the crowd get you carried away. I know they were cheering for me too by the end. This leaves me in a great position. We got a draw against a three-division world champion so it leaves a good taste in your mouth.”

“After four years away I did enough to beat a young kid and an active fighter,” said Mares. “My performance speaks for itself. The crowd was happy and it felt good to be home. I definitely felt like I won but it is what it is, the judges saw a draw.”

Edwin De Los Santos Stops Valenzuela in 3

Late-replacement Edwin De Los Santos shocked previously undefeated Jose Valenzuela in round three of their 10-round lightweight bout.

In a wild round two, Valenzuela dropped De Los Santos with a hard left hand. Seconds later, De Los Santos scored a hard knock down with a hard right hook that set up a flurry that was punctuated by another right hook his own. De Los Santos was deducted a point as he hit Valenzuela when he was down. In round three, De Los Santos dropped Valenzuela again with a hard right hook. Moments later, De Los Santos rocked Valenzuela with a hard right hook and the fight was stopped at 1:08.

De Los Santos, 134 lbs of Santo Domingo, DR is 15-1 with 14 knockouts. Valenzuela, 134.5 lbs of Los Mochis, MX is 12-1.

“Valenzuela is a fighter who I feel has been protected and I wanted to show everyone what I’m capable of,” said De Los Santos. “The plan wasn’t to come forward so much, but when I saw how he was fighting, I was ready to go toe-to-toe. The Mexican fighters love to fight like that, but he was open for me to attack.”

“I didn’t expect De Los Santos to be as aggressive as he was in the fight,” said Valenzuela. “He gave it out as he good as he took. I just want to focus on getting back in the ring and redeeming myself.”

“I came in against a ranked fighter tonight and I was up for the task,” said De Los Santos. “Now I want the same name that everyone wants. I want Gervonta Davis.”

Joey Spencer Decisions Salgado

Joey Spencer remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Kevin Salgado.

Spencer landed 79 of 395; Salgado was 54 of 422.

Spencer, 154.5 lbs of Grand Blane, MI won by scores of 99-91 twice and 100-90 and is now 16-0. Salgado, 153.2 lbs of Mexico City is 14-1-1.

“He’s a hard-hitting counter puncher, so we wanted to control the distance,” said Spencer. “I feel really strong. I’m really proud of the work that we put into my conditioning and I think it showed in the fight. I’m improving as I get more experience, and that helps me stay more composed in these fights. I’m going to keep adding to my game as I get more comfortable. I’m definitely working towards improving as an offensive fighter.”

“I have a couple ideas of who I want to fight next,” said Spencer. “Tony Harrison, Tim Tszyu, Erickson Lubin and Sebastian Fundora are all guys I want to fight. I want to face the best. There’s one champion in the division and we have to fight each other to get to him.”

Aleem Shuts out Plania

Ra’eese Aleem remained undefeated and tuned up for a world title fight by winning a 10-round unanimous decision over Mike Plania in a super bantamweight.

In round two, Aleem landed a right hand that had Plania stumbling which was ruled a knockdown.

Aleem landed 134 of 592 punches; Plania was 47 of 345.

Aleem, 121.5 lbs of Muskegon, MI won by scores of 100-89 on all cards and is now 20-0. Plania, 122 lbs of General Santos City, PHL is 26-2.

“The fight was everything that I expected,” said Aleem. He’s a very tough fighter and a great competitor. I just wanted to fight a smart fight, because we know he’s dangerous. Although I didn’t feel his power, I know that he can hit. I just wanted to take my time and let everything fall into place.”

“It’s time for ‘scared boy’ Stephen Fulton Jr. to come out of hiding and sign the contract,” said Aleem. “Let’s get in there so I can give him his first loss. It would be a closer fight than tonight, but I still expect to dominate and get the win.”

Anthony Garnica remained undefeated with a six-round majority decision over Jose Lopez in a super bantamweight fight.

Garnica, 123.4 lbs of Oakland, CA won by scores of 59-55 twice and 57-57 and is now 10-0-1. Lopez, 127.5 lbs of Dallas, TX is 17-11.

Former world heavyweight champion Charles Martin battered and bloodied former United States Olympian Devin Vargas in his way to a fourth round stoppage in a scheduled eight-round bout.

The time of the stoppage was 1:59.

Martin, 250 lbs of Saint Louis, MO is 29-3-1 with 26 knockouts. Vargas, 243 lbs of Toledo, OH is 22-8.

Juan Francisco Estrada tuned up for a his trilogy fight by winning a tougher then expected 12-round unanimous decision over Argi Cortes to retain the WBC Super Flyweight title in Hermosillo, Mexico.

In the first few rounds, the two provided some action packed exchanges with both guys giving as good as they received. After four-rounds, the open scoring had the fight even as each fighter was ahead on a scorecard and third was even at 38-38. In round five Estrada began to bleed from his nose after Cortes landed a big right hand.

In round seven, Estrada dropped Cortes with a left to the body. The two battled down the stretch with Cortes showing a ton of grit and heart as he battled the champion punch for punch. Estrada was able to eek out the victory by scores of 115-112 twice and 114-113.

Estrada is now 43-3. Cortes of Mexico City is 23-3-2.

After the fight it was announced that Estrada will take on Roman Gonzalez in their trilogy fight on December 3rd on DAZN.

Cruz Decisions Mrdjenovich in Rematch; Retains Featherweight Title in Rematch

Erika Cruz retained the WBA Featherweight title with a 10-round unanimous decision over former campion Jelena Mrdjenovich in a rematch.

Cruz, 125 3/4 lbs of Mexico won by shutout scores of 100-90 on all cards and is now 15-1. Mrdjenovich, 125 lbs of Edmonton, ALB, CAN is 41-12-2.

Nontshinga Decisions Flores to Win IBF Light Flyweight Title in Classic War

Sivenathi Nontshinga captures the IBF Junior Flyweight title with a 12-round split decision over Hector Flores in a bloody war.

In round two, Nonthshinga dropped Flores with a left hook. In round five, Flores started to bleed from his forehead from an accidental headbutt.

The two stood toe-to-toe in the pocket and just wailed away on each other for basically 36 minutes.

In the end the knockdown was the difference as Nonthshinga won by scores of 116-111 and 114-113. Flores took a card a 115-112.

Nonthshinga, 107.6 lbs of South Africa is 11-0. Flores of Mexico is 20-1-4.

Eduardo Hernandez stops Mata in 5

Eduardo Hernandez stopped Jorge Mata in round five of a scheduled 10-round battle of junior lightweights.

In round four, Mata began to swell on the left side of his head.  In round five, Hernandez dropped Mata and the fight was stopped shortly after at 1:15.

Hernandez, 129.6 lbs of Mexico City is 33-1 with 30 knockouts.  Mata, 129.4 lbs of Tonora, MEX is 14-1-2,

Liverpool, England – 3rd September 2022 – Liam ‘Beefy’ Smith got a 4th round knockout of Hassan Mwakinyou in his return to home city of Liverpool, but it was not the perfect homecoming with the fight ending in confusion and controversy.

Smith was up against the heavy-handed Mwakinyo who had come to the UK and caused upsets against the home fighter in the past. Mwakinyo piled on the pressure in the early rounds of the fight, using fast jabs and powerful right hands, but Smith was feeling out his opponent’s rhythm and finding the openings .

Mwakinyo complained of ankle problems after a slip in the 2nd round, which seemed to impair his movement for the rest of the fight, and lead to the relatively unprovoked first knockdown in the fourth round, and the eventual second knockdown and stoppage at 1:46 into that round.

The Liverpudlian legend is ranked in the top five across multiple sanctioning bodies, and now looks more determined than ever before to claim another world championship. It looks certain that more huge fights are to come in Liam Smith’s career.

Full Undercard Results:

Natasha Jonas def. Patricia Berghult – UD (99-91, 100-90, 100-90)

It was a successful unification of the WBO and WBC Super Welterweight World Championships by ‘Miss GB’ Natasha Jonas in a 10 round barnstormer of a fight against an undefeated World Champion in Patricia Berghult. Patricia Berghult had genuine success boxing at long range in the first few rounds, but Jonas showed the heart of a champion to close the distance and land concussive shots for the rest of the fight.

Jonas turned the fight into a gritty brawl at close range, which she consistently dominated. Throughout the later rounds in the fight, Jonas made Berghult miss and landed brutal hooks to the head and the body. Jonas looked close to finding the stoppage throughout the closing rounds, but Berghult wouldn’t be put down, and kept scrapping until the final bell, meaning Miss GB had to take a wide decision on the judge’s scorecards.

Natasha Jonas was a proud representative of Liverpool in this fight, and the Liverpool crowd got behind their champion. Now she goes on to represent the sport in the biggest night in the history of women’s boxing next Saturday.

Frazer Clarke def. Pencho Tsvetkov – KO Rd 1/6 1:05

Olympic Bronze Medalist and fast-rising heavyweight sensation Frazer Clarke destroyed an opponent in Pencho Tsvetkov who had a single taste of Clarke’s power and instantly realised he didn’t want to be in the ring with him. 

Clarke blasted him out in under 70 seconds and swiftly moved his thoughts on to the 4th opponent of his career, who will hopefully provide more of a contest.

Adam Azim def. Michel Cabral – KO Rd 1 (1:54)

The most electrifying young talent in world boxing Adam Azim scored his third consecutive 1st round stoppage and the 5th victory of his career in just over two minutes. Azim charged out from the first bell and claimed the centre of the ring, firing off lightning fast jabs and right hands, scoring a knockdown with a crippling hook to the body and then ending the fight with a clutch of straight right hands to Michel Cabral’s head that knocked him off his feet and rendered him unable to respond to the referee’s count to 10.

Cabral had never been stopped before in his professional career, having competed 45 rounds and taken five victories up to this point in his career. The future superstar from Slough made a massive statement with another explosive victory, showing the world that he is deadly serious when he says he plans to become the youngest World Champion in history.

Dan Azeez def. Shakan Pitters – UD (117-111, 117-112, 115,113)

British Light Heavyweight Champion Dan Azeez took a monumental unanimous decision victory over one of the best 175lb fighters in the UK in Shakan Pitters. Azeez overcame the 8-inch height difference between the pair with slick forward movement and destructive shots in a 12 round war. The fight kept a strong pace with constant action from the first bell to the final bell

The first half of the fight was highly competitive, with Pitters boxing well at range and landing with the right uppercut, while Azeez put the pressure on and landed shots from close range, as well as a set of powerful overhand rights in the 2nd round that did serious damage to Pitters. Azeez was finding more success in these rounds however, using excellent head movement while coming forward to avoid Pitters’s output and starting to build damage on Pitters with clubbing shots. 

Pitters had periods of legitimate success in the later rounds, but Azeez continued to find ways to land shots and do damage. ‘Super’ Dan dictated the pace throughout the fight, putting the pressure on when he decided, and coaxing Pitters into a fight at longer range when he felt it necessary, showing outstanding ring generalship on his way to a career-defining victory.

Azeez now can rightfully claim to sit at the very top table of British Light Heavyweight boxing, and will now look towards even bigger and better things in his currently unblemished career.

Paddy Lacey def. Seamus Devlin – PTS 60-54

Former professional footballer and now 7-0 professional boxer Paddy Lacey took a comprehensive points victory over six rounds against a fiery opponent who had clashed with Lacey at the weigh-in. Lacey controlled distance well and made sure to come out better from every exchange, not leaving any question as to who won each round for the referee scoring the bout. 

Nathan Quarless def. Toni Visic – PTS 60-53

Nathan Quarless sent his opponent tumbling to the canvas on the way to a totally dominant points victory. Visic is a highly experienced ring-veteran with over 50 professional fights and 20 victories, but Quarless made it look easy. The skillful scouse Cruiserweight landed shots throughout the fight and came close to putting Visic out for good at multiple points throughout the fight, but Visic showed grit and determination to reach the final bell. The referee’s scorecard reflects how Quarless won every second of every round.

Frankie Stringer def. Karl Sampson PTS 40-36

The first Liverpool native on the card took a composed victory against a fast-moving, elusive southpaw in Karl Sampson to take the second victory of his professional career. Stringer consistently held the centre of the ring and walked Sampson down with cannon-like jabs, but Sampson remained notably hard to pin down. 

Stringer grew into the fight as it went on, finding more success in the 3rd and 4th round when Sampson started to slow, finishing strong and claiming victory in every single round on the referee’s scorecard.

Clark Smith def. Petar Aleksandrov – PTS 40-36

A measured, intelligent debut from the ‘Manchester Mexican’ Clark Smith against an experienced opponent in Aleksandrov, throwing neat, straight shots from the southpaw stance throughout the fight. Smith used long jabs and straight left hands throughout the fight in order to hit Aleksandrov without allowing the tough Bulgarian to land anything in return. 

Smith showed some impressive punch variety in the final two rounds, working uppercuts and combinations into his output to finish the fight in serious style. This debut has put boxing on notice as to how good Clark Smith has the potential to be.

Musa Moyo def. Diego Costa – PTS 58-56

Musa Moyo managed to overcome a seriously tough, undefeated opponent in Diego Costa in a brutal, back-and-forth 6 round fight. Both men consistently landed shots throughout the fight, with Muyo being the more evasive of the pair, while Diego Costa brought formidable punch-power. Both men had success in this even fight, being reflected in the referee’s close scorecard to decide the winner. Both men will have won a lot of fans with their performances tonight.

Scott Forrest def. Dmitrij Kalinovskij – TKO Rd 3/4 (1:34)

Scott Forrest scored another devastating knockout in the first bout of the night to move his record to three wins and no defeats, with all victories coming before the final bell. He was consistently landing fast punch combinations throughout the first two rounds of the fight, with one in the third finally sending Kalinovskij to the canvas. He rose back to his feet, but an inch-perfect left hook, right uppercut combination knocked him down again and forced the referee to stop the fight.

After appearing at WWE Clash at The Castle, Tyson Fury announced that he will announce he next opponent next week.

MONTREAL, Quebec, Canada (September 2, 2022) — Groupe Yvon Michel (GYM) has announced IRRESISTIBLE II as undefeated World Boxing Council (WBC) champion Kim Clavel (16-0, 3 KOs) and World Boxing Association (WBA) title-holder Jessica Nery Plata (28-2, 3 KOs) will square-off on December 1st in a World Light Flyweight Unification showdown at Place Bell Laval in Laval, Quebec, Canada.

IRRESISTIBLE II is a Mise-O-Jeu presentation in collaboration with Bell Media.

Clavel, 31, won her WBC crown on July 29 in Montreal, defeating defending champion Yesenia Gomez (19-5-3) by 10-round unanimous decision at the Casino de Montreal in a dazzling performance that unanimously delighted the people of Quebec. The native of Joliette became the 2nd woman and the eighth GYM world champion. She became the 4th active champion in Montreal by joining champions Marie-Eve Dicaire (IBF), Oscar Rivas (WBC) and Artur Beterbiev (WBC/WBA/IBF).

For Kim Clavel, it is a challenge worthy of her ambitions: “Since my conquest of the WBC world title, I have received thousands of extraordinary testimonies that touch me enormously. On December 1, I want to thank all my supporters for their support by launching me into this unique challenge to become unified champion. I promise not to disappoint you!”

Yesica Nery Plata is equally excited about the opportunity: “I won my WBA title by dethroning champion Yesica Bobb in Panama so I’m not afraid to go to Canada for this major fight in my career,” said the Mexican. “This unification is what I have been longing for a long time and it comes at the right time when I am at the peak of my career. My goal has always been to face the best, Kim Clavel is part of this category, and I am grateful to her for having accepted this duel.”

“It’s been a long time since we’ve seen a local pugilist arouse so many passions,” said GYM president Yvon Michel. “It was without hesitation that we took the gamble of reserving Place Bell for this first unification world championship in the history of boxing in Quebec, by a boxer from our region. We will be able to welcome the many fans of our new champion and allow them to attend this historic event IRRESISTIBLE II.”

During the height of the COVID19 pandemic, Clavel returned to nursing to help elderly in Montreal, for which she was awarded the prestigious 2020 Pat Tillman Award for Service at that year’s ESPYs ceremony on ESPN.

Plata, 28, from Mexico City, won her WBA belt in her last outing on March 11 in Panama in a 10-round decision victory over the great champion and former amateur star Yesica Bopp (37- 2, 17KO) from Argentina.

Plata will ride a 7-fight win streak into Laval, winning 13 of her last 14 fights, dating back to 2016. A former WBC Youth light flyweight champion, Plata won the WBA Interim Light Flyweight Championship in 2018, taking a 10-round split decision from Silvia Torres (18-0-1). She successfully retained the WBA Interim title once with a 10-round unanimous decision versus Alondra Garcia (20-3-1) the following year.

Plata is currently ranked at the top of the light flyweight division by independent organization Boxrec.com as well as No. 6 in the world pound-for-pound. Clavel is ranked No. 3 at 108 pounds and No. 21 in all divisions.

This will be the second time that Kim Clavel will be in the main event in an event presented in a major Quebec amphitheater. The first time was against Maria Vargas at Stade IGA in August 2021.

Tickets will be on sale starting Friday, September 23 on Ticketmaster.ca, at the counters at Place Bell or for tables or groups, contact GYM at info@groupeyvonmichel.ca. More details on this will be communicated in the coming days.

#GroupeYM #IRRESISTIBLEII #ClavelPlata

Source: Groupe Yvon Michel

About Yvon Michel Group (GYM)

Groupe Yvon Michel is a professional boxing promotion organization founded in 2004 by Yvon Michel, Alexandra Croft and Bernard Barré, who are still active in the company, the most prolific organization in Canadian professional boxing. Since its foundation, GYM promoted 162 events in Quebec, all broadcast in Quebec on RDS, TVA Sports or Radio-Canada; and participated in 37 international events outside Quebec. Eight boxers have become world champions: Joachim Alcine, Jean Pascal, Adonis Stevenson, Artur Beterbiev, Eleider Alvarez, Marie-Eve Dicaire (twice), Oscar Rivas and Kim Clavel. Eighteen GYM boxers have fought in 53 world championship fights. compiling a solid 29-22-2 record. Major American television networks were more active than ever during this period in terms of coming to Quebec to broadcast the GYM’s most important events.

DENZEL BENTLEY HAS revealed that a fight with Marcus Morrison could have happened back in 2020 but he was told to ‘wait his turn’ by the now challenger for the British middleweight title.

Bentley makes a first defence of his Lonsdale belt against the Manchester man on September 16 at York Hall, having won back his prized possession with victory over LInus Udofia back in May.

When boxing emerged from lockdown just over two years ago, Bentley of Battersea was informed that Morrison was a potential opposition for his own return, which took place at the BT Sport studios.

Ultimately, a match with Morrison did not come to fruition and the experienced Mick Hall was drafted in to test drive Bentley.

Bentley then took to social media to enquire why Morrison didn’t materialise.

“I was told in the first fight back after lockdown that I was possibly facing Marcus Morrison and then a couple of weeks later it changed to Mick Hall,” recalled the 27-year-old.

“So I sent out a tweet saying ‘what happened to you, I thought we were meant to be fighting?’ and he came back with ‘wait your turn’. So I was like, okay, fair enough.

“Then by the end of that year I won the British and he tweeted me asking for a crack at that, so I told him to get to the back of the queue.

“So we had a bit of fun with each other online and stuff.”

Good things come to those who wait and these two will soon be on the bash in Bethnal Green in a fight fans are looking forward to witnessing.

“Yeah they are, he is someone who tries all the time and doesn’t really back down or go in his shell. He has stepped up to a good level and he can punch.

“I haven’t been in a boring fight yet, so I guess any fight I am in people will be excited to see, to be honest.”

Morrison hails from the prolific Gallagher’s Gym in Bolton where the resident fight guru Joe Gallagher is nurturing a next generation of champions. Just a few weeks ago, Mark Heffron became British, Commonwealth and IBF Intercontinental champion, while Natasha Jonas and Paul Butler are the proud owners of world title belts.

Bentley believes that mixing in a good company does have a positive impact on a fighter and partly for not wanting to be left out of conversations.

“One hundred per cent, if the gym is successful you want to be in the same bracket as these guys,” he added. “When someone is talking about your gym and the top fighters, you want to be mentioned in that light.

“You don’t want to be in the gym for years and years, then when they mention the top guys, people leave you out. You are part of that too and you are going to want to push on and start achieving things.”

Tickets for Bentley vs Morrison at York Hall on Friday, 16 September are on sale now, available exclusively from ticketmaster.co.uk.

BRITISH MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPION Denzel Bentley (16-1-1, 13 KOs) will defend his title against Marcus Morrison (24-5, 16 KOs) at York Hall on Friday September 16, live on BT Sport.

Also in action in Bethnal Green will be the ferocious Liverpool bantam Andrew Cain (10-0, 9 KOs) making a defence of his WBC International Silver title and Boxxer cruiserweight series winner Ellis Zorro (14-0, 6 KOs) will make his first appearance in Queensberry colours, taking on a tough operator in Dec Spelman (18-5, 9 KOs).

The supporting cast at York Hall includes teenage prodigy Royston Barney-Smith (2-0) taking on Birmingham’s Paul Holt (8-14, 2 KOs) over six rounds in his third professional fight at super featherweight. Willy Hutchinson (14-1, 10 KOs) will be looking to continue his revival at light heavyweight after making a successful comeback in June.

Hackney super featherweight Frank Arnold (9-0-1, 3 KOs) will fight over eight rounds, Buckhurst Hill super bantam Adan Mohamed (4-0, 1 KO) and welterweight Khalid Ali (3-0, 2 KOs) from Brick Lane in London will fight in six round contests, with Belvedere cruiserweight Arnold Obodai (1-0, 1 KO) and the debut-making middleweight Joel Kodua from Beckinham fighting in four-rounders.

Tickets for Bentley vs Morrison at York Hall on Friday, 16 September are on sale now, available exclusively from ticketmaster.co.uk.

Liverpool, England – (September 2, 2022) – Today’s BOXXER weigh-ins saw former WBO World Super-Welterweight Champion Liam Smith and Hassan Mwakinyo, plus WBO World Super-Welterweight Champion Natasha Jonas and WBC Champion Patricia Berghult come face to face before their showdowns tomorrow night.

Also weighing in on a packed card were British Light-Heavyweight Champion Dan Azeez and Former Champion Shakan Pitters, plus fast rising star Adam Azim, the WBC Youth Super-Lightweight Champion, and heavyweight hot-shot Frazer Clarke.

Here’s the official weights for the fighters taking part in tomorrow night’s BOXXER event at the M&S Bank Arena, Liverpool, live on Sky Sports.

12 x 3 mins Super-Welterweight Contest @11st 4lbs

LIAM SMITH (11st 5lb 5oz) v HASSAN MWAKINYO (11st 1lb)

10 x 2 mins WBC/WBO World Super-Welterweight Championship @ 11st 0lbs

NATASHA JONAS (10st 9lb 5oz) v PATRICIA BERGHULT (10st 9lb 5oz)

12 x 3 mins British Light Heavyweight Championship, Eliminator for Commonwealth Light Heavyweight Championship & WBC International Light-Heavyweight Championship @ 12st 7lbs

DAN AZEEZ (11st 6lb 5oz) v SHAKAN PITTERS (12st 6lb)

6 x 3 mins Heavyweight Contest

FRAZER CLARKE (19st 6lb) v PENCHO TSVETKOV (15st 6lb)

10 x 3 mins WBC Youth Super-Lightweight Championship @ 10st

ADAM AZIM (9st 13lb 5oz) v MICHEL CABRAL (10st 5lb)

6 x 3 mins Cruiserweight Contest @14st 4lbs

NATHAN QUARLESS (14st 6lb 5oz) v MICHAEL WEBSTER

6 x 3 mins Super-Middleweight Contest @12st 0lbs

DIEGO COSTA (12st) v MUSA MOYO (12st 6lb)

4/6 x 3 mins Middleweight Contest @ 11st 9lbs

PADDY LACEY (11st 11lb) v SEAMUS DEVLIN (11st 8lb 5oz)

4 x 3 mins Lightweight Contest @ 9st 11lbs

FRANKIE STRINGER (9st 10lb) v KARL SAMPSON (9st 10lb 5oz)

4 x 3 mins Cruiserweight Contest @ 14st 6lbs

SCOTT FORREST (14st 7lb 5oz) v DMITRU KALINOVSKU (13st 7lb 5oz)

4 x 3 mins Welterweight Contest @ 10st 10lbs

CLARK SMITH (10st 12lb) v PETAR ALEKSANDROV (10st 11lb 5oz)

LONDON, SEPTEMBER 2 – Hometown hero Peter McGrail headlines his first major show in Liverpool next month alongside some of the city’s top boxing stars.

Probellum returns to the famous fighting city in October after the success of Probellum Liverpool in April when headliner Paul Butler set up his undisputed bantamweight blockbuster with Naoya Inoue, by winning the WBO title with a masterclass display against Jonas Sultan.

But it is world-champion-in-the-making McGrail who is the headline attraction this time and the local hero will be joined on the card by Uzbekistan’s Olympic gold medallist – and heir-in-waiting to the heavyweight throne – Bakhodir Jalolov, who carries with him a frightening 100% KO record.

Other Liverpool favourites set to enter the ring include world ranked featherweight Jazza Dickens, former world super middleweight champion Rocky Fielding and the unbeaten Joe McGrail (5-0, 2KOs) – Peter’s younger brother.

The older McGrail brother (4-0, 3KOs) dazzled at Probellum’s debut Liverpool show and will take centre stage in front of his growing legion of fans next month as his journey towards the top of the super bantamweight division moves up a gear.

Peter McGrail said: “It has been a long-held dream of mine to headline a show in Liverpool but to do so, with an undercard as strong as this one, makes this even more special.

“The level of talent on show at Probellum Liverpool is set to be scarily good and as the headline fighter, I am determined to showcase why I am a future world champion.

“The rest of the card is excellent; Jalolov will be heavyweight world champion one day, Jazza and Rocky are pushing to get world title shots again and my brother Joe is flying this year.”

Heavyweight destroyer Jalolov (11-0, 11KOs) continues his march towards the summit of boxing’s marquee division by fighting in the UK for the first time as a professional.

Jalolov, known as ‘The Big Uzbek’, brings devastating punch power to Liverpool and is ready to reinforce his reputation as the heir to the heavyweight throne.

The 6’7” puncher won gold at the Tokyo Olympics and there is a rapidly growing belief that Jalolov will take over the division in the coming years.

Probellum President, Richard Schaefer said: “I’m delighted that Probellum returns to Liverpool with such a brilliant fighter as Peter McGrail as our headliner.

“Peter is quickly becoming a hero in the city, and this is a landmark moment in his journey to the top of the super bantamweight division.

“Popular fighters like Peter, Rocky and Jazza would pack the arena out by themselves but being able to add the UK debut of Jalolov into the mix makes our return extra special. McGrail and Jalolov are both headed straight to the top of the world, so this is a card that you don’t want to miss.”

Fan favourite Dickens (31-4, 12KOs) is breathing down the necks of world champions Leigh Wood and Josh Warrington and has publicly called out both to put their belts on the line against him.

And while the two-time world title challenger waits for his next opportunity, he will aim to turn the heat up on his 126lbs rivals with a statement display, following April’s stunning stoppage of Andoni Gago.

Fielding (30-2, 18KOs) wants a chance to reclaim the world super middleweight title he won in 2018 and will use Probellum’s return to reinforce his credentials for another shot at the belt.

Ranked highly by the WBA, the 35-year-old is well-placed for a second tilt at world glory and knows an impressive win in his hometown will only aid his cause.

To keep up to date with the latest news on Probellum Liverpool 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.

About Probellum???
Launched in September 2021, Probellum is a global boxing promoter, and the fastest-growing brand in the sport.

Following the success of the opening two shows in December 2021, Probellum held back-to-back world championship nights in Dubai, as well as a packed card in Newcastle.

The world title action then headed to Liverpool last month where Paul Butler won the WBO bantamweight crown.

Probellum’s elite stable of fighters also includes Nonito Donaire, Regis Prograis, Estelle Mossely, Sunny Edwards, Eimantas Stanionis, Donnie Nietes and Dina Thorslund.

But the company has also recruited the next generation of stars with Peter McGrail, Mark Dickinson and Pat and Luke McCormack, Shabaz Masoud and Spencer Wilcox among the young talents under the Probellum umbrella.

LOS ANGELES – September 2, 2022 – Fighters competing in action on FOX, FS1 and FOX Deportes this Sunday, September 4 previewed their respective matchups during a press conference Friday before they step into the ring in PBC action from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

FOX action will feature unbeaten rising super welterweight Joey Spencer taking on Mexico’s Kevin Salgado in a 10-round showdown on the broadcast beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

On FS1, unbeaten super bantamweight contender Ra’eese Aleem battles the Philippines’ Mike Plania in a 10-round attraction beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

The FOX and FS1 bouts lead up to a stacked four-fight FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and headlined by former unified heavyweight world champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. taking on hard-hitting top contender Luis “King Kong” Ortiz in a WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased online at AXS.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Friday from JW Marriott L.A. Live:

JOEY SPENCER

“My experience being on cards like this is very important. I have an opponent who’s going to bring the best out of me. We’re going to give it our all and I can’t wait.

“This is another natural step as I continue to move up the ladder. This win brings me bigger and better fights. That’s why I have to get this victory by any means necessary. The sky is the limit, but first I have to get past Salgado.

“Every fight presents new challenges, but by the time I get into the ring, I always feel relaxed. I’ve been doing this since I was a little kid. The ring is a very familiar place for me.

“It’s huge to have my brother fighting on the undercard. It makes me feel like we’re moving in the right direction. Kel Spencer is a special fighter and I can’t wait for people to see him. We fight differently, but we both fight well. I think the fans are going to enjoy the story, our similarities and our differences. I’m my brother’s biggest supporter.

“I don’t care about public perception. I only care about getting a win. I don’t care how I get it done. I’ve got too much going on to worry about what people are saying.

“I just want a big name next. Anybody in the top five. If I’m not able to get that, I’m down to fight Bryant Perrella, who fought Salgado to a draw. I’m coming into my own and I’m ready to go. I’m heavily underestimated, so all I can do is go in there and shock these dudes. I’m looking forward to it.

“I’m mature, I’m disciplined and I’m vicious. I’m a different guy than what people have seen in the past. I’ve got a family to feed, and I’m coming to win. He’s going to have to knock me unconscious in order to beat me.”

KEVIN SALGADO

“This is a huge card, so I owe it to everyone to give it my all and come out with a victory on Sunday night. I’m excited for the challenge. If he’s ready, then let’s go for the knockout.

“Joey is a very good fighter and I respect him a lot. Beating him will get me the big fights that I crave and closer to the world title that I want. I have to be successful Sunday to get where I want to go.

“It doesn’t get any better than sharing the spotlight with so many accomplished Mexican fighters. I can’t tell you how excited I am to be part of that club. That’s why it’s my duty to go out there and make Mexico proud.

“I just hope the world sees after I win that I’m another great Mexican fighter who’s ready for the big stage and the biggest fights.

“I’m knocking Spencer out. The fans have to know that I’m coming for it all. He wanted this fight and he’s going to get it.

“The Mexican support is going to be nuts. I’m anxious to see what the arena looks like on fight night. It’s the best of Mexico stepping into the ring all night long.

“I’m going to win by knockout. That’s what we’re looking for no matter what.”

RA’EESE ALEEM

“I’m extremely excited for this fight. I’m looking forward to a great matchup. It’s going to be a tough fight and I cannot wait.

“This is a testament to my hard work. Everything that goes into training has been worth it. I’ve earned this spot. I sacrificed to be here and I’m looking forward to earning some new fans.

“I believe that I have multiple paths to victory. Not only against Plania, but against most of the guys who I’ve fought. I’m capable of doing a lot in the ring and I just have to stick to the game plan and execute.

“When you fight on stages like this, you have to put on your best performance. That’s the goal every time I step into the ring. I want to show everyone exactly who I am.

“This is my chance to show everyone that I am the next contender to face Stephen Fulton Jr. for his world titles. I believe our paths will cross, but I have to get through an extremely tough opponent first.

“I’m putting on a spectacular performance Sunday. Everyone will be talking about how great the fight was and I’ll have my hand raised.”

MIKE PLANIA

“I’m very thankful to my team for this opportunity. I’m very excited for this fight and I’m feeling ready. I always do my best to give the fans a great show.

“This is a good fight between top five fighters in the division. It’s a really important fight for me and I would just say that the fans need to tune in early and make sure you don’t miss this fight.

“After this fight I’m definitely looking to fight for a world title. The key to my success has been the hard work and patience. I knew that if I stayed focused I would get here.

“This is going to be a great fight. I have a strong game plan and we’re going to use it to bring a victory home for the Philippines.

“This is a big fight for me to represent my country. I’ve had a great training camp in Miami with a lot of strong fighters who have prepared me for what Aleem is going to bring.

“My prediction is that I’m going to win this fight, no matter how it goes.”

#       #       #

ABOUT RUIZ VS. ORTIZ

Ruiz vs. Ortiz will see former unified heavyweight champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. and top contender Luis “King Kong” Ortiz meet in a 12-round WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View on September 4 in a Labor Day Weekend clash from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

The pay-per-view telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and feature a stacked lineup of rising and accomplished stars in high-stakes matchups. In the co-main event, hard-hitting Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz will step in to take on fellow Mexican and veteran contender Eduardo Ramírez in a 12-round WBC Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. 

The action will also see the return of popular three-division champion Abner Mares in his first action in three years as he battles former title challenger Miguel Flores in a 10-round super featherweight attraction, plus exciting rising star José Valenzuela duels Edwin De Los Santos in the 10-round lightweight pay-per-view opener.

Prior to the pay-per-view, rising unbeaten super welterweight Joey Spencer will battle Mexican contender Kevin Salgado in a 10-round showdown highlighting PBC action live on FOX and FOX Deportes beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on September 4 during Labor Day Weekend from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

Leading into the FOX broadcast, undefeated top super bantamweight contender Ra’eese Aleem takes on Mike Plania in a 10-round attraction live on FS1 and FOX Deportes beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, 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.

Juan Francisco Estrada is ‘excited’ to be back in action and ready to put on a show when he defends his WBC Franchise and Ring Magazine World Super-Flyweight titles against Argi Cortes on Saturday September 3 from Centro de Usos Multiples in Hermosillo, Mexico and broadcast live to all subscribers worldwide on DAZN.
 
Estrada (42-3 28 KOs) makes a welcome return to action almost 18 months after edging out Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez in their epic rematch in Dallas in March 2021. ‘El Gallo’ welcomes Cortes to his hometown and the same arena he stopped Dewayne Beamon in August 2019, and the Hermosillo hero will want to put on another show for his fans. Cortes (23-2-2 10 KOs) lands the biggest fight of his career in his 28^th pro outing, with the Mexico City man aiming upset his fellow countryman and become a household name overnight.
 
The Super-Flyweight landscape is as exciting as ever, with Chocolatito holding the WBC Diamond strap, up and coming superstar Jesse Rodriguez producing stunning wins over Carlos Cuadras and Srisaket Sor Rungvisai so far this year and a host of talents at 112 and 115lbs itching to test themselves against the best – so 32 year old Estrada is looking to remind the world that he’s the top dog.
 
“I am very excited for this show, where we can finally get into the ring after more than a year without fighting,” said Estrada. “I expect a difficult rival, I know that Argi will arrive very well prepared, and will have a man in the corner who knows everything, everyone, with great experience and achievements like Don Nacho Beristain. 
 
“But we have made a great preparation and that I have enjoyed a lot, because for the first time in six years, I have had a camp without injuries, and that has me very motivated for this fight and whatever comes next. There are so many great fights out there and I cannot wait to return.
 
“I hope the fans join us on Saturday. My fight against Cortés will be a war, and the rest of the fight card will be very competitive and exciting with two more World championships, very good prospects, hometown talent with my teammates here Christian Olivo and Omar Salcido present. It will be a historic event that people cannot miss, I hope to see all my people at the arena.”
 
There are two more World title bouts on the bill, starting with the long-awaited rematch between Erika Cruz and Jelena Mrdjenovich for the WBA World Featherweight title. Cruz (14-1 3 KOs) ripped the title from long-time champion Mrdjenovich (41-11-2 19 KOs) in April 2021, with the Mexican ending the five-year rule of the Canadian on the cards after an accidental headclash halted the contest after seven rounds. Cruz successfully defended the belt in Puerto Vallarta in November via split decision over Melissa Esquivel, while the former champion returns for the first time since the first battle.
 
The vacant IBF World Flyweight title is on the line between unbeaten pair Hector Flores and Sivenathi Nontshinga. Both men taste their first World title action as Tijuana’s Flores (20-0-4 10 KOs) builds on his victory over Welsh World title challenger Jay Harris in Wales in November, while hard-punching Nontshinga (10-0 9 KOs) fights outside his native South Africa for the first time and comes into the bout on the back of his first points win in his tenth bout having beaten his previous nine foes inside the distance.
 
Also featuring on the card is Super-Featherweight dangerman Eduardo Hernandez, defending his WBC Silver International title against Jorge Mata. Hernandez (32-1 29 KOs) pulled off a stunning victory last time out, blitzing Jorge Castaneda inside a round in Guadalajara in June to land the title he defends against Mata (14-0-2 10 KOs), the unbeaten 21 year old Tijuana native who fights for his first pro title.

TENAFLY, NJ (September 1, 2022) – Integrated Sports will distribute the exhibition match between International Boxing Hall of Famer and former 5-division world champion Floyd Mayweather and Japanese 2-time mixed-martial-arts champion Mikuru Askakura on September 24th, starting at 11 p.m. ET, live on pay per view from Saitama Super Arena in Saitama, Japan.

The Mayweather-Askakura boxing exhibition headlines Super RIZIN, presented by Japanese MMA company RIZIN Fighting Federation, which will also feature a kickboxing match between Yoshinari Nadaka and So Trakunbet Bandasak.

The event will be distributed by Integrated Sports across North America live on Cable and Satellite Pay Per View via iN Demand, DIRECTV, DISH, Shaw PPV, Rogers, Bell TV, and SaskTel priced at $29.99. Additionally, it will be broadcast via Digital PPV on FITE (all FITE mobile, OTT Streaming and Smart TV apps) and PPV.com.

“We’re thrilled to distribute Mayweather-Askakura and Super RIZIN to combat sports fans throughout North America,” Integrated Sports president Doug Jacobs said. “People can’t get enough of Floyd and MMA fans around the world know RIZIN puts on great MMA shows.”

Mayweather- Askakura is scheduled for 3 rounds. The 45-year-old Mayweather, who retired from professional boxing with a perfect 50-0 record, fights out of Las Vegas. This will mark the first boxing match for Asakur, 30, who has a 16-3-0 MMA record.

About Integrated Sports Media: North America’s leading distributor of International Pay-Per-View and Closed-Circuit sports events has presented World Championship and world-class boxing matches featuring Evander Holyfield, Roy Jones, Jr., Ricky Hatton, Ivan Calderon, Rocky Martinez, Nicolai Valuev, Amir Kahn, Marco Antonio Barrera, Arthur Abraham, David Haye, John Ruiz, and Juan Manuel Lopez. In addition, Integrated Sports Media has distributed numerous international soccer matches showcasing the National Teams of Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and the USA, as well as World Championship and world-class mixed martial arts events featuring Fedor Emelianenko, Tim Sylvia, Bobby Lashley, Bob Sapp, Jeff Monson, and Roy Nelson.

LOS ANGELES – September 1, 2022 – Former unified heavyweight world champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. and hard-hitting top contender Luis “King Kong” Ortiz went face-to-face at the final press conference Thursday before they meet in the ring this Sunday, September 4 headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

The press conference also featured fighters competing on the stacked four-fight pay-per-view undercard beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. In the co-main event, top lightweight contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz battles Eduardo Ramirez in a WBC Lightweight Title Eliminator, plus former three-division world champion Abner Mares makes his ring return against Miguel Flores in a 10-round attraction, while unbeaten rising star Jose Valenzuela duels Edwin De Los Santos in the 10-round telecast opener.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased online at AXS.com.

Heading into their WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator, Ruiz, boxing’s first heavyweight champion of Mexican descent, looks to move one step closer to a second title reign, while Ortiz hopes to put himself back in position to become Cuba’s first heavyweight world champion. Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from JW Marriott L.A. Live:

ANDY RUIZ JR.

“I feel good and extremely motivated. The first time I saw Ortiz fight live, my dad told me I was going to fight him someday. Now we’re here.

“At the end of the day, we both have the same dream. He wants to make history, but I’m going to have my hand raised up high and I’ll be the one who comes out victorious.

“I’m trying to make a big statement. Not just for the fans, but for myself. Losing all those titles that I won broke my heart. This is another chance for me to become champion and I don’t want to lose it. I want to take full advantage of it and do my best.

“His plan is to try to knock me out but we’ve trained really hard. If it goes the distance, we trained hard. I’m ready for anything he brings to the ring. Everyone wants a knockout, but if you look for the knockout, you make mistakes and pay the price. That’s what we’ll be waiting for.

“This is the only thing we know how to do. I’ve boxed since I was six-years-old. I never had another job, so I had to work hard in boxing and follow my dreams.

“I focus more on boxing now, because in my last fight I was focused on how I looked. I want to be the part, not look the part. I trained so hard for this moment.

“Beating Luis Ortiz will help me become a world champion again. That’s the reason I’m still fighting. I want to become a two-time world champion.

“All the hard work and dedication, the blood sweat and tears, it’s time for it all to pay off. It’s time to get the victory.

LUIS ORTIZ

“My goal is to destroy my opponent and win this fight in a convincing fashion.

“Either he knocks me out or I knock him out. A knockout in boxing is the best thing in sports. This is going to be an exciting fight, one of us is going down, and I’m making sure it’s Andy. 

“The only thing I know how to do is box. Ever since I was a kid in Cuba and had to fight for my lunch money. I’m ready for this because this is all that I know.

“This is a fight everyone has wanted. It’s going to be two warriors in the ring and now it’s finally time to fight this Sunday.

“Every fight is important, but this is especially important because the winner will hopefully fight to become heavyweight champion of the world. It’s the most important fight for both of us right now.

“This is a very important fight for both of us. Whoever wins this fight is going to get a shot for a world title and right now, it doesn’t get any bigger than that.

“I don’t pay attention to the odds. Boxing is such a great sport, because you come in with an idea of what you’re going to do, and it changes right away when you’re in the ring.

“I come from a school of boxing that’s about adapting to what my opponent does. I don’t take anything for granted in the ring. But no matter what he does, I’m going in there to look for the knockout, that’s the ultimate goal.

“I’m facing a popular Mexican fighter, but things can turn around in a second. I love the Mexican fans and I’m looking to get them on my side with a big victory.”

ISAAC CRUZ

“We came here to show that I’m a first-class fighter. We know it’s going to be a tough fight and a war for as long as it lasts.

“We’ve gained the respect and love of the fans and we’re going to keep going hard on this journey. We want to continue to gain more fans as we continue to perform.

“I’m coming into this fight very well prepared. It’s been a long camp that lasted almost four months. I’m extremely motivated and appreciative of all the support I’ve received so far.

“There’s been a world of difference between this training camp and the camps I had for my last two fights. The amount of time that we had to prepare made things much better and everyone is going to see the difference on Sunday night.

“I have not reached my ceiling as a fighter yet. My goal is to get better each and every fight and show that I can be one of the pound-for-pound best fighters in the world.

“Valenzuela has to earn a fight with me, just like everyone has to earn their opportunities. He has to put in the work, and if he wants the opportunity, he just has to talk to my team.”

EDUARDO RAMIREZ

“I’m motivated and I trained very hard for this fight. This is going to be another Mexican warrior between two fighters who have trained hard and who are coming to give everything they have on Sunday.

“I’m more than ready to give the fans what they want this weekend. I’m coming to put on a show and I can confidently say that this night is going to be a blast for everyone watching.

“This means a lot to me because September is a big month for the Mexican people. It’s our duty to give the fans the kind of fight that they crave and that they deserve.

“A victory in this fight could truly be a springboard for my career. That’s the only goal that we have in mind. We know that we have to be cautious because of Cruz’s power, but we’re ready for everything he brings.”

ABNER MARES

“It’s an honor and a blessing to be back. It’s a dream come true. It’s amazing to be fighting on this amazing card and I’m just ready to do my thing. I can fight in my sleep, so I’m just going to enjoy the moment.

“I’m in a different position coming back after four years. I’ve had a lot of memorable nights here in Los Angeles. I’ve had great fights here. But come September 4 it’s a new time in my career. I have no pressure in my mind. I’m just enjoying it.

“I can sit here and say that I’ll be a smart fighter, but at the end of the day, I’m a warrior. I’ll probably end up slugging it out with this guy, because that’s what I do.

“I train hard for this and I know we’re both ready. There is never a boring Abner Mares fight and Sunday night is going to be no different.

“This is a different chapter in my life. To be back in front of my people for a comeback fight, I’m truly honored and blessed. I’m happy and grateful to everyone who gave me the opportunity. Now it’s just time to get to work.

“Mentally I want to be the wise fighter who picks their punches inside of the ring. But sometimes the heart gets the best of you and you end up fighting like the warrior you are.”

MIGUEL FLORES

“This is a great opportunity to add a big name to my resume. I know Mares is confident, but I’m going to rely on my preparation to carry me through this fight.

“When you have two Mexicans, everyone knows it’s going to produce fireworks. Obviously you want to be smart and intelligent in the ring, but being honest, I’m going in there to give the fans a great show.

“I’m hoping to steal the show and do it in a smart fashion. The plan is to go in there and have an exciting, one-sided fight.

“A victory will definitely open a lot more doors and get me the big fights that I’m looking for. I do this for my family and that’s my motivation every time I get in there.”

JOSE VALENZUELA

“I just have to keep doing what I do. I’m going to stay relaxed, use my jab and take it round by round so I can get the victory.

“I want to thank him for stepping in and taking this fight. Edwin is a hell of a fighter with a lot of knockouts. I think he’s going to bring the best out of me and make sure we give the fans a great show.

“I know this guy is going to come to fight, because this is a great opportunity as well. He’s coming to put on a great show, just like I am. It’s a new opponent, but it’s going to be the same result.

“I’m starting to get in the flow of things and I believe that once I’m able to get by this opponent, I’ll be ready for Isaac Cruz, Gervonta Davis or whoever they have to put in front of me.

“Me and the Benavidez team are a big family. They took me in when nobody was there for me and basically adopted me. I’ll always be grateful to them for that.”

EDWIN DE LOS SANTOS

“I was ready for this. I was training for two months and was going to fight next week if it didn’t happen, but I’m thankful for this opportunity and I’m more than ready for Valenzuela.

“The knockouts come by themselves. I hope he’s ready for what I bring. This isn’t going to be a sprint, it’s a marathon.

“This fight is 50-50. People know what I’m capable of. If you don’t know what I’m about, you’re going to see on Sunday night and in every fight going forward.

“This fight is going to come down to who’s smarter and craftier inside of the ring. I know that he knows what to do inside of the ring, so it’s my job to overcome that.

“Valenzuela has many weaknesses, not just one. You’re going to see what I’m talking about on Sunday night. This is just one more step on my way to the larger goal that I’m looking to accomplish.”

#       #       #

ABOUT RUIZ VS. ORTIZ

Ruiz vs. Ortiz will see former unified heavyweight champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. and top contender Luis “King Kong” Ortiz meet in a 12-round WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View on September 4 in a Labor Day Weekend clash from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

The pay-per-view telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and feature a stacked lineup of rising and accomplished stars in high-stakes matchups. In the co-main event, hard-hitting Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz will step in to take on fellow Mexican and veteran contender Eduardo Ramírez in a 12-round WBC Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. 

The action will also see the return of popular three-division champion Abner Mares in his first action in three years as he battles former title challenger Miguel Flores in a 10-round super featherweight attraction, plus exciting rising star José Valenzuela duels Edwin De Los Santos in the 10-round lightweight pay-per-view opener.

Prior to the pay-per-view, rising unbeaten super welterweight Joey Spencer will battle Mexican contender Kevin Salgado in a 10-round showdown highlighting PBC action live on FOX and FOX Deportes beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on September 4 during Labor Day Weekend from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

Leading into the FOX broadcast, undefeated top super bantamweight contender Ra’eese Aleem takes on Mike Plania in a 10-round attraction live on FS1 and FOX Deportes beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, 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.

BENSALEM, PA–Popular heavyweight Joey Dawejko stopped Mike Marshall in round four of their scheduled six-round bout at The Xcite Center inside Parx Casino.

In round two, Dawejko uncorked a wicked left hook that hit Marshall square in the right side of his head, and he fell on his back. Dawejko landed hard body shots with both hands.

Just after the 10-second clap in round four, Dawejko landed another quick and powerful left hook that sent Marshall down for a second time. Marshall struggled to his feet and the referee Eric Dali waved the fight off at the 3:00 mark.

Dawejko, 261.7 lbs of Philadelphia is now 22-10-4 with 13 knockouts. Marshall, 251.7 lbs of Danbury, CT is 6-4-1.

Daiyaan Butt won a six-round unanimous decision over Tyrone Luckey in a super lightweight bout.

In round five, Luckey began to bleed from his nose.

Butt, 141.5 lbs of Philadelphia won by scores of 60-54 twice and 58-56 and is now 11-2. Luckey, 140.2 lbs of Galloway, NJ is 15-18-4

Nelson Morales won a five-round technical split decision over Christopher Burgos in a super lightweight.

The bout was stopped at 2:45 of round five as Burgos was unable to continue to due to an accidental headbutt.

Morales, 140.9 lbs of Scranton, PA is 3-1. Burgos, 142 lbs of Philadelphia is 3-6-2.

Soslan Alborov and Brendan O’Callaghan battled to a spirited four-round majority draw in a middleweight fight.

Scores were 40-36 for O’Callaghan and 38-38 twice.

O’Callaghan, 155.4 lbs of Philadelphia is 3-1-1. Alborov, 154.5 lbs of Philadelphia is 0-1-1,

Bryce Mills won a four-round unanimous decision over Carlos Marrero in a super lightweight bout.

Mills, 142 lbs of Syracuse, NY won by scores of 40-36 on all cards and is now 9-1. Marrero, 142 lbs of Bridgeport, PA is 3-8.

Tyler Zwicharowski made a successful pro debut by stopping Andre Hinmon in round three of their four-round middleweight contest.

In round three, Zwicharowski battered Hinmon all over the ring until he put him down with a right hand. Zwicharowski was all over Hinmon that forced referee Shawn Clark to stop the bout at 1:18.

Zwicharowski, 162.5 lbs of Philadelphia is 1-0 with one knockout. Hinmon, 166 lbs of Philadelphia is 0-2.

In a battle of pro debuting super featherweights, Devin Gantt stopped Tajiro Arakawa in round three of their four-round bout.

In round three, Gantt hurt Arakawa with a combination and he dropped him face-first with a hard left hand. Referee Eric Dali waved it off at 44 seconds.

Gantt, 126.3 lbs of Sicklerville, NJ is 1-0 with one knockout. Arakawa, 128.7 lbs of New York, NY is 0-1.

Everlon Still won a four round unanimous decision over Derrick Vann in a super middleweight bout.

Still, 169.5 lbs of Voorhees, NJ won by scores of 40-36 and 39-37 twice and is now 2-2. Vann, 166.5 lbs of Philadelphia, PA is 2-5.

THE HONEYMOON IS on hold for newlywed Nathan Heaney due to a big night beckoning at the AO Arena, Manchester, where he takes on a domestic battle with Jack Flatley on September 24.

Heaney recently tied the knot with Louise, his sweetheart of 11 years, but he knew plans for a sunshine break to mark the occasion would have to be put to one side because a spot on the blockbuster Joyce-Parker card had been earmarked for him and his army of supporters.

Heaney, 33 and 15-0, comes into the Flatley fight off three impressive and hard-fought victories over international opposition, with two stoppages over Konstantin Aleksandrov and Sladan Janjanin before he recovered from a first round knockdown to comfortably outpoint Diego Ramirez.

Now he is set for a Stoke v Bolton collision against Flatley with his IBO International middleweight belt on the line.

He hopes skipping the post-wedding sunshine will be a sacrifice worth making.

“The only thing is having to hold off on the honeymoon because of fighting on the Joyce card, which is a bit of a nightmare, but, but, if everything goes well and I’m sure it will do, it will all be worth it.

“I need to keep the paypackets going now!”

Heaney missed out on a night’s pay when injury ruled him out of the July show at the SSE Arena, Wembley – a night also headlined by Joyce – and he was denied the opportunity of leading his troops into London.

“It was really disappointing, mostly for the fact I would have been fighting in the capital and a new place for my guys to go to. I went down to the show to support and watch it and I thought to myself that the place would have been full of Stokies.

“Over 650 bought tickets off me and, as we got closer, there would have been another 50 or so and it would have been really, really good just to show Frank and everyone where my guys will travel to.

“It obviously didn’t happen and it would have been very silly of me to fight with an injury,” added Heaney, who reports that all is now well on the fitness front.

“I basically sprained a ligament in the back of my shoulder and I had an MRI to check whether it was torn or not. If it was, it would have been really, really bad and I would have had to have surgery, but my injury was more a degeneration of the whole shoulder, which was why I was getting a lot of pain.

“Since I have had treatment it has been really good. I have been boxing for 23 years and it is essentially just wear and tear.”

Tickets for ‘Nowhere to Run’ – the heavyweight clash between Joe Joyce and Joe Parker on 24 September at the AO Arena, Manchester being shown exclusively live on BT Sport Box Office – are priced from £40 and are on sale now exclusively from Ticketmaster.co.uk.

As well as the huge Joyce vs Parker clash, ‘Nowhere To Run’ will see Amanda Serrano bidding to win four world title belts at featherweight when the Puerto Rican superstar makes her UK debut against the unbeaten Dane, Sarah Mahfoud.

Queensberry fighters Anthony Cacace, Ekow Essuman, Raven Chapman and Mark Heffron all feature in the supporting cast of the 24 September ‘Nowhere to Run’ blockbuster at the AO Arena, Manchester, a fight night not-to-be-missed.

Tickets for ‘Nowhere to Run’ – the heavyweight clash between Joe Joyce and Joe Parker on 24 September at the AO Arena, Manchester being shown exclusively live on BT Sport Box Office – are priced from £40 and are on sale now exclusively from Ticketmaster.co.uk.