• Teofimo Lopez 138.8 vs. Pedro Campa 139.4 (Vacant WBO International & NABF Junior Welterweight Titles — 10 Rounds) Judges: Tim Cheatham, Patricia Morse Jarman and Dave Moretti Referee: Tony Weeks
• Xander Zayas 153 lbs vs. Elias Espadas 153.6 lbs (Vacant NABO Junior Middleweight Title — 8 Rounds)
(ESPN+, 6:40 p.m. ET/3:40 p.m. PT)
• Jose Enrique Vivas 127.8 lbs vs. Edy Valencia 127.6 lbs (Featherweight— 8 Rounds)
• Andres Cortes 130.6 lbs vs. Abraham Montoya 131 lbs (Junior Lightweight — 8 Rounds)
• Troy Isley 156 lbs vs. Victor Toney 156.8 lbs (Middleweight — 6 Rounds)
• Duke Ragan 126.6 lbs vs. D’Angelo Fuentes 125.6 lbs (Featherweight — 6 Rounds)
• Charlie Sheehy 134.4 lbs vs. Juan Castaneda 133.8 lbs (Lightweight — 4 Rounds)
MYKQUAN WILLIAMS, CARLOS GONGORA AND JUAN CARLOS CARRILLO WEIGH IN FOR TOMORROW’S “PARADE OF CHAMPIONS” EVENT IN MELROSE, MA
New York, NY (August 12, 2022) – A trio of DiBella Entertainment fighters will compete tomorrow night at Memorial Hall, in Melrose, MA, as part of Boston Boxing Promotions’ “Parade of Champions” event. The card will stream live as a pay-per-view via combatsportsnow.com, starting at 6:00pm ET / 3:00pm PT.
“Marvelous” Mykquan Williams (17-0-1, 8 KOs), from East Hartford, CT, collides with Mexican Saul Corral, of Douglas, AZ, in an eight-round welterweight contest. Williams weighed in at 142 lbs., and Corral, 146 lbs. Williams, who captured the WBC USNBC Silver super lightweight title in 2019, is coming off of a fifth-round stoppage win in April. In January 2021, Williams earned an impressive victory on Showtime’s “ShoBox” series via 10-round unanimous decision against previously unbeaten Yeis Solano. Before his 2016 pro debut, Williams was a decorated amateur with a 45-13 record, highlighted by three gold-medal performances at the Ringside World Championships, in addition to winning the PAL Tournament and Silver Gloves Championships.
Rated #12 by the WBC, super middleweight southpaw Carlos “Carlito’s Way” Gongora (20-1, 15 KOs), from Esmeraldas, Ecuador, and training out of Springfield, MA, squares off against Oscar Riojas, of Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, in an eight-round contest. Gongora tipped the scales at 170 lbs. and Riojas weighed in at 170.5 lbs. The former IBO world titlist is determined to rebound from his lone defeat last year. Gongora took up boxing at the age of 12 and had an extensive amateur career, nearing 400 fights, that included competing in the 2008 and 2012 Olympic Games.
Colombian Olympian Juan Carlos Carrillo (7-0, 5 KOs), of Barranquilla, Colombia, takes on Victor Fonseca, of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico, in an eight-round bout. Carrillo came in at 178.5 lbs. and Fonseca, 179.5. Last year, Carrillo captured the WBA Fedecentro light heavyweight title. He advanced to the second round at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janiero, Brazil. Accumulating a record of 388-23, he was among Colombia’s most decorated amateurs, winning gold at the 2012 Colombian National Games, 2012 Pacific Cup Tournament, 2011 Colombian National Championships, 2010 Colombian Youth National Championships, and silver at the 2014 Central American & Caribbean Games. Carrillo comes from a boxing family and, at age nine, followed his father and older brother into the sport.
Social Media
DiBella Entertainment
Instagram: @DiBellaEnt
Twitter: @LouDiBella, @DiBellaEnt
Facebook: @DiBellaEntertainment
RUBEN “ACE” TORRES TRAINING CAMP QUOTES
CORONA, CA (August 12, 2022) – Undefeated lightweight, Ruben “Ace” Torres (18-0, 15 KOs), who is making a case for being the 2022 Prospect of the Year, is scheduled to headline Thompson Boxing’s “Path To Glory” event on August 20, 2022. Torres, who is wrapping up training camp, will battle Cristian Baez (18-1, 17 KOs), in a ten-round main event which looks to be Torres’ toughest fight to date.
Tickets priced at $50, $75, $100 & $125, will only be available for purchase at the door the day of the event, which will take place at the Omega Products International Event Center in Corona, CA. Doors open at 6:30 pm PT with the first fight starting at 8:00 pm PT.
Here is what Torres had to say about his upcoming fight with Baez, his recent training camp, and more.
On his recent training camp:
“I’ve given this camp my all. I know that a lot of people believe in me from friends, and family, to the media outlets labeling me as one of the next great fighters developed through Thompson Boxing. My goal is to work as hard as possible in the gym to be able to live up to the standards others have set for me. I am trying to not just be good, but great, and this camp reflects all the hard work that will be on display come fight night.”
On working with coaches Danny Zamora and Javier Gomez:
“I feel that the relationship I have with Danny Zamora and coach Javier Gomez is deeper than boxing. I took time off from boxing to go to school and, when I came back, they were both there for me. Together they were very serious about my dedication to the sport. I know that it isn’t just a business for them, they genuinely care about me and want what is best for me. I couldn’t ask for anything more. I don’t view them as coaches, I view them as people that will be on this journey with me till the end.”
On his upcoming matchup with Baez:
“I know that he is a talented fighter who at one time was signed to Golden Boy Promotions, but lost a fight, and people seemingly forgot about his talent. I didn’t. I know that this is the most motivated he has ever been because he has been out of the ring for nearly two years. I am sure he stayed in the gym and the Baez I am facing will be a guy who not just wants to get a check, but he also wants the respect he feels he deserves in this sport. I am training for this fight like it is a world title fight, since I know he is a dangerous opponent.”
On headlining another Thompson Boxing card:
“I am so grateful to the whole staff at Thompson Boxing. They have built me up to become a fighter who is in the running for the prospect of the year, and I want to be the next great fighter for this organization. Thompson Boxing is a family, and boxing is a sport that doesn’t have much community, especially as you become successful. I’m excited to headline another Thompson Boxing card. My next goal is to bring a world title to Thompson Boxing, and I know I will do it soon.”
Beto Duran will operate as the blow-by-blow commentator with expert commentary by Doug Fischer and Rich Marotta. Jessica Rosales will serve as the onsite ringside reporter.
This event is sponsored by HUSTLER Casino, LA’s only luxury casino; Thompson Building Materials, Transforming spaces into beautiful places; Omega Products International, The leading stucco manufacturer in the United States; Belgard, Paves the way; and Makita, Rule the outdoors.
“Path To Glory” will stream live for free on the Thompson Boxing Promotions website (www.thompsonboxing.com), as well as their Facebook and
YouTube pages. In addition, Fight fans will be able to watch all Thompson
Boxing fights, weigh-ins, and behind-the-scenes content, via their new Mobile App downloadable onApple and Google.
?
For more information, and regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com. You can also follow the conversation on social media, please use #ThompsonBoxing.
ALBERTO PUELLO AND HECTOR GARCIA TRAINING CAMP QUOTES
HOLLYWOOD, Fla. – August 12, 2022 – A pair of top contenders representing the Dominican Republic will look to secure world titles as Alberto Puello confronts Batyr Akhmedov for the vacant WBA Super Lightweight belt, while Hector Garcia faces WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Roger Gutierrez, in action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, August 20 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla.
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast is topped by four-division world champion Adrien “The Problem” Broner returning to take on all-action former world champion Omar “Panterita” Figueroa in a super lightweight showdown. Coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT with Brandun Lee, one of the sport’s most exciting prospects and biggest punchers, taking on Will Madera in a 10-round super lightweight bout.
Tickets for the live event are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com.
Puello and Garcia previewed their respective showdowns as they draw closer to their upcoming opportunity to achieve their world championship dreams. Here is what they had to say about those matchups, representing the Dominican Republic and more:
ALBERTO PUELLO
“I feel great. I’m focused on what has been an intense preparation with brand new challenges that I had never encountered before, but I am very satisfied with the results we have obtained ahead of the fight so far.
“This week is a lot more relaxed. We have been lightening our load as the fight gets closer. What’s left is keeping up our winning mentality, the one we always have, to then come out and shine on August 20.
“This is going to be the most important fight of my career so far, no doubt about it. The biggest opportunity I’ve had. I’m ready to seize it against a quality opponent that has given people a lot to talk about, that’s for sure. However, I’m ready to be crowned as champion and take the title.
“I don’t know much about Batyr Akhmedov. I saw his last fight against Argenis Méndez and the one he had previously against Mario Barrios, but not much more than that.
“My coach and I have Batyr studied up, having watched video of him, but that isn’t the most important thing for me anyway. I’m focused on me and on being 100%, because at the end of the day he could come out fighting in a totally different way.
“My family is currently in the Dominican Republic, and that is kind of tough for me. However, I talk with them every day and we are happy, because we know all of this is for the greater good and the future of the family.
“I expect this fight will be like my previous one and that I’ll be absorbing a lot of pressure from my opponent. I’ll be ready for it just like I was last time, since I’m a counterpuncher by nature.
“If I tell you that I don’t feel any pressure, I would be lying to you. You feel those butterflies, and that’s an awesome feeling, along with that commitment to make your countrymen and women happy by winning for your people. My mentality remains the same, I have to go out there and do my job.
“I have always felt the love and support from my entire country, and I’m sure that Dominicans will come out to show their support on August 20.”
HECTOR GARCIA
“I’m feeling good, very strong and in great shape. I’m in my optimal condition both mentally and physically. Now we are making the final touches and adjustments to be 100% on August 20.
“I’ve been thinking about what being in your prime is all about. I hadn’t had this kind of chance before, and keep in mind that I had always dreamt of being a world champ by 25, 26 years old, 27 max. However, my career has been an uphill battle that has taught me valuable lessons along the way while taking me on a wonderful ride I’m still enjoying at 30.
“I am my best self at 30 years old. The maturity, the experience, and the grit I have acquired through the years have brought me here. The time has come to take full advantage of this opportunity, and you would have to be crazy to think I am not about to take advantage of it to the fullest.
“The story will be the same as when I won last time against Chris Colbert. I couldn’t possibly thrill my family and my fans more than I did in my previous fight. It was sublime.
“I still train as if this was the last time I will ever fight. I never, ever take anything for granted, that’s forbidden. I train with the same effort and intensity as my first time, and I can’t afford the luxury of underestimating my opponent at any time.
“My preparation has been like night and day this time around with more time to get ready. Now I feel at 200%, while I wasn’t at 100% against Colbert. To be totally honest with you, I was more like at 80%. However, I knew that would be enough to defeat Colbert.
“I also did part of my training camp in Miami, and I felt right at home over there. The Dominican fans will definitely come out to support me, the mutual love was definitely there.
“My family is in the Dominican Republic, but my brother Oriolis García is always by my side. Their unconditional support is priceless for me, and I will do anything I can to make them proud.”
# # #
ABOUT BRONER VS. FIGUEROA
Broner vs. Figueroa will see four-division world champion Adrien “The Problem” Broner, one of the sport’s most notable attractions and biggest personalities, make his long-awaited return against all-action former world champion Omar “Panterita” Figueroa in a 12-round super lightweight showdown headlining action live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, August 20 from Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla. in a Premier Boxing Champions event.
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will feature top 140-pounders Alberto Puello and Batyr Akhmedov squaring off for the vacant WBA Super Lightweight World Championship in the co-main event. Plus, WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Roger Gutierrez defends his title against unbeaten Hector Garcia in a 130-pound title clash. Kicking off the telecast, Brandun Lee, one of the sport’s most exciting prospects and biggest punchers, takes on Will Madera in a 10-round super lightweight bout.
DIBELLA ENTERTAINMENT SIGNS WORLD RATED SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT CARLOS GONGORA
New York, NY (August 12, 2022) – DiBella Entertainment has signed Ecuadorian super middleweight contender Carlos “Carlito’s Way” Gongora (20-1, 15 KOs). He returns to the ring this Saturday facing Oscar Riojas, at Memorial Hall, in Melrose, MA. The event, titled “Parade of Champions” presented by Boston Boxing Promotions, will stream live as a pay-per-view via combatsportsnow.com, starting at 6:00pm ET / 3:00pm PT.
“Carlos Gongora is a dangerous, experienced and skilled fighter. I am happy to be working with my friend Mike Criscio on advancing his career,” said International Boxing Hall of Famer Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Gongora has proven that he is a threat to anyone in the super middleweight division and I look forward to helping him advance up the rankings toward a world championship opportunity.”
“I have always been valued as a fighter. I’m a two-time Olympian and very much loved by my people in my country of Ecuador,” said Gongora. “The only time that I didn’t feel valued as a fighter was in my last fight. I’m happy that I’m no longer in that situation, and very content that my manager, Mike Criscio, was able to land a deal with DiBella Entertainment. Lou’s experience is what I need. He’ll be able to find the fights that I want. Most importantly, what I see is that he values all of his fighters.”
Ranked #12 by the WBC, Gongora burst into the national spotlight when he upset previously unbeaten Ali Akhmedov by 12th-round knockout, in a Fight of the Year candidate, on December 18, 2020, at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, in Hollywood, FL. Gongora dropped Akhmedov twice with his left uppercut in the final round to capture the IBO super middleweight world title.
The southpaw is looking to rebound from his lone defeat by controversial split decision against Britain’s Lerrone Richards in Manchester, England. The contest ended with tallies of 115-113 each way, and 116-112 for Richards.
Born in Esmeraldas, Ecuador, Gongora comes from a boxing family, as his uncle, Segundo Mercado, was a former pro boxer who twice battled Bernard Hopkins in the mid-nineties. Gongora took up boxing at the age of 12 and had an extensive amateur career, nearing 400 fights, that included competing in the 2008 and 2012 Olympic Games.
He has been managed by Mike Criscio and trained by Hector Bermudez for most of his professional career, which began in 2015. When he’s not home in Ecuador, Gongora lives and trains out of an old fire station that Bermudez converted into a boxing gym in Springfield, MA, called Universal Training Academy.
PARKER CONFIDENT NEW TEAM OF LEE & FURY WILL GET THE BEST OUT OF HIM
THE TRADING OF verbal jabs during an opening press conference was an unfamiliar experience for Joseph Parker, who is far more used to exchanging pleasantries with forthcoming opponents.
But with his proposed collision with Joe Joyce mired in confusion and delay for a considerable period before it was finally made official, there was an undercurrent of tension and ill-feeling in the air at the BT Sport studios when the two heavyweights got together to reveal that an accord had been reached and preparations can begin for September 24 at the AO Arena in Manchester which is being shown exclusively live on BT Sport Box Office.
Parker told Dev Sahni in an exclusive UniBet Lowdown interview to be broadcast on the Queensberry YouTube channel on Saturday that he also had to endure the angst of fractured negotiations and he is happy that they will soon be able to trade leather along with insults.
“It was the first press conference I have been involved with that was quite fiery,” said the former world champion from New Zealand. “Because of the lead up to making this fight happen there is a lot of frustration from both sides. We were outnumbered at the top but, if (manager) David Higgins was here, he would have had a lot to say.
“Ultimately, it is great the fight is locked in now. We have a date, a venue and there are two guys who want to smash each other’s faces in.”
Joyce promised to inflict ‘dents’ to the facial features of the 30-year-old who now trains alongside Tyson Fury in the seaside town of Morecambe. Unsurprisingly, Parker says he intends to reciprocate.
“He can try his best! And I am going to do the same to him. He hasn’t fought anyone like me before. I am confident with the new team that I have – nothing wrong with the old team and we achieved great things together – with Andy Lee in my corner and Tyson supporting and helping me.
“This camp will be by far the best camp I have been involved in. Every other camp was great, but I am going to make this one the best.”
An amusing element of Joyce’s press conference patter was an occasional quack in reference to the thinking that Parker was seeking to duck this fight and seek alternative employment.
Far from it, Parker insists, adding that he wants reflections on his career to centre on his plan to take on all comers.
“I want to be remembered as a fighter who fought everyone. A lot of people were saying I wasn’t going to fight Joe Joyce and that I was ducking him, but it was the fight that we wanted and it is why we are here.
“Credit to him because he could have just waited, waited for his chance to fight for a world title, but he wants to put it on the line. Both fighters see this as the perfect fight and it is the most challenging fight out there for me and for him.
“It is challenging for me because he hasn’t been beaten and a lot of people think he is invincible and can take every punch out there. They call him the juggernaut, but I will show everyone what I can do in the ring.
“I am not sure what I am going to do. Whether I dance around and jab his head off, put the pressure on him. It will come together with Andy Lee and he is the person to come up with the perfect game plan.
“We execute it well and it will be a great night for Team Parker.”
Tickets for ‘Nowhere to Run’ – the heavyweight clash between Joe Joyce and Joe Parker on 24 September at the AO Arena, Manchester exclusively live on BT Sport Box Office – are priced from £40 and are on sale now exclusively from Ticketmaster.co.uk.
WATCH HEBERT CONCEICAO MAKES PRO DEBUT LIVE AND FOR FREE
LONDON, AUGUST 12 – Olympic hero Hebert Conceição makes his professional debut on Saturday – and you can watch it live and for free.
The middleweight gold medallist from the Tokyo Games enters the paid ranks this weekend in Uzbekistan and this historic moment will be streamed at Probellum.com.
Conceição faces Danny Mendoza over six rounds at the Humo Arena in Tashkent as part of a LIFT Promotions event, which also includes fellow Olympic champions Faziliddin Gaibnazarov and Shakhobidin Zoirov, who struck gold at Rio 2016.
The live stream is also set to feature Cuba’s fast-rising super featherweight Jadier Herrera as well as Uzbek favourites, heavyweight Laziz Mullajonov and super bantamweight Mirazizbek Mirzakhalilov.
Saturday’s main card is due to start at 8:30pm local time.
Conceição won his gold medal last summer when dramatically knocking out Ukraine’s Oleksandr Khyzhniak in the final round but now he is focused on winning titles in the pro ranks.
Watch Hebert Conceição’s pro debut LIVE and for FREE at Probellum.com on Saturday.
To keep up to date with the latest news on Conceição, 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.
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.
BENTLEY BACK IN YORK HALL CRACKER
BRITISH MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPION Denzel Bentley will defend his title against Marcus Morrison 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 making a defence of his WBC International Silver title and Boxxer cruiserweight series winner Ellis Zorro will make his first appearance in Queensberry colours, taking on a tough operator in Dec Spelman.
Battersea man Bentley (16-1-1, 13 KOs) seized back his treasured Lonsdale belt when he beat the previously undefeated Linus Udofia back in May, having lost his title-holding status against Felix Cash just over a year before.
Bentley, 27, is now revved up and ready to go again against the 29-year-old Morrison (24-5, 16 KOs), who is back at middleweight after trying his luck at 168lbs in a challenge for the WBO International title held by Zach Parker in November of last year.
Morrison’s career reignited with the stunning knockout of Emanuele Blandamura in 2019 to win the WBC International Silver title and, two wins later, he accepted the challenge of taking on Chris Eubank jr and was defeated on points over 10 rounds.
Cain (10-0, 9 KOs) is quickly becoming the feared man of the bantam/super bantam range and his last two fights have resulted in brutal first round stoppages against statistically durable opponents in Pablo Ariel Gomez and Luis Moreno.
This will represent a second defence of his WBC International Silver title for the 27-year-old, who trains out of the Everton Red Triangle gym alongside Nick Ball and Brad Strand.
Zorro (14-0, 6 KOs), 29, kickstarted his cruiserweight mission by teaming up with the team at the Peacock Gym in Epping and, in May, threw his name into the hat for the Boxxer Series up in Manchester, leading to triumphs over James Farrell and the unbeaten pair of Jamie Smith and Ricky Reeves.
His tournament success resulted in being signed up by Frank Warren and his Queensberry journey begins over eight rounds against former English light heavyweight champion Spelman (18-5, 9 KOs), who has moved up to cruiserweight after taking on both Lyndon Arthur and Anthony Yarde at 175lbs.
Also featuring at York Hall is 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 with a third round stoppage of Karel Horejsek in Telford.
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 contests, with Belvedere cruiserweight Arnold Obodai (1-0, 1 KO) and the debut-making middleweight Joel Kodua from Beckinham fighting in four-rounders.
“I am delighted to be putting on a show in London the week before all eyes will be trained on Manchester for the big Joyce-Parker heavyweight showdown,” said promoter Frank Warren.
“Denzel Bentley defending his British middleweight title against a dangerous challenger in Marcus Morrison is a proper York Hall scrap where entertainment is guaranteed. Denzel’s stock is on the up again and we were all proud of the way he reclaimed his belt against a good unbeaten opponent as the away fighter.
“Andrew Cain is quickly falling into the ‘must watch’ category of fighters and he is proving to be an incredible talent who is gaining fans all over the country, while I am also looking forward to launching the Queensberry career of our new cruiserweight Ellis Zorro and he will quickly be in meaningful title action if he can overcome the challenge of the tough Dec Spelman, who we know well from his previous appearances on our show.
“Our little superstar Royston Barney-Smith is definitely one to watch and I am also excited to be bringing Willy Hutchinson back towards title contention once again.”
Tickets for Bentley vs Morrison at York Hall on Friday, 16 September are on sale now exclusively from ticketmaster.co.uk.
VIDEO: Teofimo Lopez vs Pedro Campa | PRESS CONFERENCE
Press Conference Notes: The Teofimo Lopez Takeover Resumes Saturday Evening
LAS VEGAS (Aug. 11, 2022) — It has been nearly two years since Teofimo Lopez has fought on ESPN, and the former lightweight king is primed to return in devastating fashion. Lopez will make his junior welterweight debut Saturday evening in the 10-round main event against Pedro “Roca” Campa at the Resorts World Event Center at Resorts World Las Vegas.
In the eight-round junior middleweight co-feature, Puerto Rican sensation Xander Zayas will face Mexican veteran Elias Espadas.Lopez-Campa and Zayas-Espadas will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
The undercard — streaming live and exclusively on ESPN+ at 6:40 p.m. ET/3:40 p.m. PT — features the return of Las Vegas-born junior lightweight contender Andres Cortes against Abraham Montoya. Undefeated prospects in action include middleweight U.S. Olympian Troy Isley, featherweight U.S. Olympic silver medalist Duke Ragan, Puerto Rican junior welterweight prospect Omar Rosario, featherweight contender Jose Enrique Vivas, and lightweight Charlie Sheehy.
Promoted by Top Rank, tickets starting at $40 are on sale now and can be purchased at Etix.com.
This is what the fighters had to say at Thursday’s press conference.Teofimo Lopez
“It feels great to be back here on ESPN, the greatest platform in the world. I can’t wait to show why Teofimo is the greatest of all time.”
“A true champion never gets distracted. At the end of the day, this ain’t my first rodeo. 21 years in the game. Blood, sweat and tears. Do your research. See it. Five-time world champion. We’re just here to dominate and do what we always do: entertain.”
“This guy is in front of me to stop my dreams and stop everything that we’re shooting for. Every time I go out there in the ring, I’m risking everything. I’m risking my life. We double down, every time. When it comes to me, it’s just me versus me, no one else. I thank God for that. He’s always in my corner.”
“My first loss? It was actually my 21st loss if we count the amateurs as well. So, I always bounce back. I’m always that type of person. The first step to success is failure. Saturday night there will be a lot of people tuning in.”
“Campa has that Mexican style of boxing. He’s going to be aggressive. This is going to be an all-out war. This is going to be a fight. And I’m very excited about that. I love competition.”
Pedro Campa
“I’m coming very well prepared. I know what I’m going to do in the ring because I know the kind of fighter who is in front of me. He is a great fighter in the world of boxing. But I’m concentrated. I’m very prepared for my fight.”
“We know the kind of fighter we will be fighting this Saturday. Honestly, I trained very hard because, as I repeat, we know the kind of opponent we have. Manny Robles is a trainer with a great understanding. He knows what he wants me to do, and I’m ready to obey what he says.”
“We can do interesting things in the ring. Firstly, I think I’m coming for the victory. By any means necessary, I want to take the victory to Mexico and for my people in Guaymas and Sonora.”
Xander Zayas
“It was a great camp. I feel ready. We’re going to put on a great show this Saturday night.”
“It’s about having your dreams and knowing what you want to do in life. I have my goals clearly laid out. I have no doubt that I can achieve each and every one of them.”
“We know that Elias Espadas is a Mexican warrior who is coming with a lot of motivation. He has never been knocked out. But I don’t feel any pressure. We are going to obtain the victory. We know what we have to do in the ring. It doesn’t matter how he will come. I will bring that regional WBO title back to Puerto Rico.”
Elias Espadas
“Xander is a great fighter. He is a young man who is on the rise. I feel confident, and I’m confident in the preparation that we have done. I know that this Saturday we will put on a great show.”
“The person who will win the fight is the one who most wants to win that night, and I have a strong desire to win. That’s why I say that it will be a great fight.”
“This Saturday, Mexico is coming out on top. He wants to win, and I want to win. And on Saturday, we will demonstrate that.”
Teofimo Lopez vs. Pedro Campa, 10 rounds, Vacant NABF & WBO International Junior Welterweight Titles
Xander Zayas vs. Elias Espadas, 8 rounds, Vacant NABO Junior Middleweight Title
ESPN+ (6:40 p.m. ET/3:40 p.m. PT)
Jose Enrique Vivas vs. Edy Valencia, 8 rounds, featherweight
Andres Cortes vs. Abraham Montoya, 8 rounds, junior lightweight
Troy Isley vs. Victor Toney, 6 rounds, middleweight
Duke Ragan vs. D’Angelo Fuentes, 6 rounds, featherweight
Omar Rosario vs. Esteban Munoz, 6 rounds, junior welterweight
Charlie Sheehy vs. Juan Castaneda, 4 rounds, lightweight
# # #
About Resorts World Las Vegas Resorts World Las Vegas was developed by Genting Berhad, a publicly traded Malaysian corporation registered with the Nevada Gaming Commission. The company has affiliated operations in the Americas, Malaysia, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the Bahamas. In partnership with Hilton, Resorts World Las Vegas integrates three of Hilton’s premium brands into its resort campus, including Las Vegas Hilton, the resort’s full-service brand; Conrad Las Vegas, Hilton’s lifestyle luxury brand; and LXR, Hilton’s network of independent luxury properties, which operates as Crockfords Las Vegas, Genting’s internationally renowned ultra-luxury brand. Resorts World Las Vegas features 3,506 guest rooms and suites, an innovative, next-generation gaming floor, world-class food and beverage options, a 5,000-capacity theatre, distinct nightlife venues, a curated retail collection of designer and boutique shops and more. The integrated resort weaves time-honored traditions of the international Resorts World brand into the fabric of Las Vegas, introducing a bold, fresh take on hospitality to the city with stunning design, progressive technology and world-class guest service. Resorts World Las Vegas is?Sharecare Health Security VERIFIED™?with?Forbes Travel Guide,?a verification that ensures the resort has appropriate health safety procedures in place.?For?more information, visit?rwlasvegas.com?or find us on?Facebook,?LinkedIn,?Twitter?and?Instagram.
About Genting Group Genting Group comprises Genting Berhad (KLSE: GENTING), the holding company, and its listed companies Genting Malaysia Berhad (KLSE: GENM), Genting Plantations Berhad (KLSE: GENP) and Genting Singapore Limited (SGX: G13). Genting Group is involved in leisure and hospitality, power generation, oil and gas, property development, life sciences and biotechnology activities, with operations spanning across the globe, including in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, India, China, the United States of America, Bahamas and the United Kingdom. Genting Group is a leader in the global gaming and hospitality industry. Founded in 1965, Genting Group has more than 50 years of experience in developing and operating destination resorts in the Americas, Malaysia, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the Bahamas, offering an unparalleled resort experience and iconic entertainment attractions to over 50 million visitors a year. For more information, visit?www.genting.com.
Two-Division World Champion & Hall of Famer Michael Spinks Confirmed for Sixth Annual Box Fan Expo, During Mexican Independence Day Weekend, Saturday September 17, in Las Vegas
Las Vegas (August 11, 2022) – Two-division world champion and Hall of Famer Michael Spinks has confirmed that he will appear at the Sixth Annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday, September 17, 2022, at the Las Vegas Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Expo will also coincide with the mega trilogy fight between Canelo Alvarez vs Gennady Golovkin, that will take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena.
Spinks will hold a Meet & Greet with his fans at his booth during the fan event held over
the Mexican Independence Day weekend.
The Box Fan Expo is an annual fan event that coincides with some of the sports’ legendary, classic fights in Las Vegas, including Mayweather vs. Maidana II, Mayweather vs. Berto, Canelo vs. Chavez Jr., Canelo vs. GGG II, and Canelo vs. Jacobs. Centered in boxing’s longtime home – Las Vegas – this year’s Expo is a must-do for fight fans coming in for this legendary weekend, with dozens of professional fighters, promoters, and companies involved in the boxing industry. The Expo is the largest and only Boxing Fan Expo held in the United States. http://boxfanexpo.com – @BoxFanExpo
Spinks will make his second appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and memorabilia. Spinks will also have merchandise on sale at his booth, and fans will also have an opportunity to take pictures with this boxing legend also known as “Jinx.”
Spinks joins Franchón Crews-Dezurn, Marco Antonio Barrera, Rolando Romero, Jose Ramírez, David Benavidez, Shawn Porter, Jessie Vargas and Erik Morales as an early commitment to this year’s Box Fan Expo, with more Boxing stars to be announced.
About Michael Spinks
Spinks is a two-division world champion, having held the undisputed light heavyweight title from 1983 to 1985, and the lineal heavyweight title from 1985 to 1988. He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1994. As an amateur he won a gold medal in the middleweight division at the 1976 Summer Olympics. Spinks is the brother of former world heavyweight champion, the late Leon Spinks, and uncle of Cory Spinks, a former welterweight and light middleweight champion. Spinks went undefeated in his first 31 professional fights, beating such opponents as Dwight Muhammad Qawi, Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, Marvin Johnson and Eddie Davis en route to becoming the undisputed light heavyweight champion. Following ten successful title defenses, Spinks moved up to heavyweight, and as an underdog defeated long-reigning IBF heavyweight champion Larry Holmes; in doing so, Spinks became the first reigning light heavyweight world champion to win the heavyweight title. Spinks only defeat in his professional career came to the hands of Mike Tyson on June 27, 1988. The International Boxing Research Organization and BoxRec rank Spinks among the ten greatest light heavyweights of all time.
About Box Fan Expo
Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet the stars of boxing that represent the past, present and future of the sport. With hosted autograph signings, meet-and-greets with current and former boxing world champions, limited edition merchandise for sale, giveaways and more, this is the ultimate event for fans of the sport.
Past boxing stars that have participated include: Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Sugar Ray Leonard, Julio Cesar Chavez, Juan Manuel Marquez, Tommy Hearns, Roy Jones Jr, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, Andre Ward, Mikey Garcia, Marcos Maidana, Devin Haney, David Benavidez, Errol Spence Jr, Sergio Martinez, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Tim Bradley, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Shawn Porter, Fernando Vargas, Abner Mares, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Vinny Paz, Mia St.John, Leo Santa Cruz, Badou Jack, Terry Norris, Riddick Bowe, Earnie Shavers, Michael & Leon Spinks, Danny Jacobs, Claressa Shields, Teofimo Lopez, Brandon Rios, Jorge Linares, and many more.
Exhibitors include boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry as a whole.
Throughout the next several weeks leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo
.
Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –
JOEY SPENCER VS. KEVIN SALGADO & RA’EESE ALEEM VS. MIKE PLANIA VIRTUAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES
LOS ANGELES (August 11, 2022) – Rising unbeaten super welterweight Joey Spencer and Mexican contender Kevin Salgado, plus undefeated super bantamweight contenders Ra’eese Aleem and Mike Plania, previewed their respective showdowns during a virtual press conference Thursday before they step into the ring on Sunday, September 4 during Labor Day Weekend in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
Spencer vs. Salgado highlights PBC action live on FOX and FOX Deportes beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.
Prior to the FOX broadcast, Aleem takes on Plania in a 10-round attraction live on FS1 and FOX Deportes beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.
These two exciting matchups will lead up to a stacked FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View event at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT, which is headlined by the highly anticipated heavyweight clash between former unified heavyweight world champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. and hard-hitting top contender Luis “King Kong” Ortiz meeting 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 Thursday:
JOEY SPENCER
“I’m not going to make any predictions other than the fact that I’m coming out there to win. He’d have to kill me to stop me. I’m going to fight until I’m either dead, or I’ve beaten him. I don’t care if I’ve knocked him out, stopped him, or win by decision. I’m going to beat him. He doesn’t have a game plan for anything that I’m coming with. He hasn’t seen the version of Joey Spencer that’s coming on fight night. So, I can promise him that his game plan is not going to be effective.
“Training is going well. Everything is going as planned, so I’m ready to rock and roll. I think fighting someone like Salgado is the next logical step. I also feel it’s going to bring the best out of me. I’m going to have an opportunity to really show my craft and what I have done since I was eight years old. I think that when you have pedigree, better competition brings the best out of you. I think that as I raise the competition level, I’m going to be able to bring another level of myself in the ring, another level of focus and preparation and I think that’s going to turn me into a better fighter.
“It means so much to have these opportunities. Being with this team and being able to have these opportunities to go out there and showcase our skills—not just me, but all the fighters under this banner have such amazing opportunities and I can’t say enough about that.
“I’m trying to make a statement to the entire division. I’m trying to put the division on notice. I’m trying to separate myself as a contender in this weight class. Salgado just had a tough fight with Bryant Perrella and drew with him. It was very competitive. I think Perrella beat Harrison and I think a lot of people would agree. Salgado came out and drew with him. This is an opportunity for me to show that there are levels. I’m ready to come out there and put on the type of performance that separates me from Salgado and the rest of the division. He said he has respect for me. I have respect for him. But when we get in there on fight night there will be no respect.
“I got done with my last fight and instantly wanted to fight a step up in competition. It was actually already the plan to do that. I was on the Charlo-Castano card, but my fight fell through and got pushed back. We were looking for an opponent like that, but it didn’t work for my schedule because I was about to have a baby. Instead, we just took an opponent, fought an untelevised fight and knew that the next one would be a step-up, 10-rounder in a big event and here we are.
“When I got out of my last fight, I said to myself, I don’t want fights like that anymore. I want fights that are going to really catapult me and push me to be at my sharpest. I feel like I’ve only shown very, very little of what I’m able to do in the ring. I feel like opponents like this will bring it all out of me. I have said it before, I’ve been doing this since I was eight years old. I was extremely accomplished as an amateur. I fought the best of the best as an amateur and was successful and won on an elite level. I’m not used to fighting opposition that doesn’t bring that out of me. I have more experience fighting guys like this.
“I really feel like this is going to bring out a better version of me. I have literally put absolutely everything into camp. No stone has been unturned for this fight. I’m excited for the bright lights. I’m excited for it to get chaotic in there and for it to be a good scrap. I know he’s going to bring it. He comes to fight and I come to fight. So it’s got to be a good fight. There is no room for complacency here.
“I’m just ready to make a statement that I’m ready for the top opponents. There are a couple of different opponents that I really want after this fight. I have those names in mind and I look forward to making some call-outs after I get done with this fight, possibly even during the interview after.
“I’m not looking past Salgado. He’s really the only name inside my mind. Before this fight was made, I thought about the fact that an awesome matchup would be me and Tim Tszyu. He’s been calling for Jermell Charlo, but I don’t think he’s necessarily done enough to deserve that title shot yet and I think Charlo feels the same way. If I come through this fight and make the statement I want to make, I feel that will be a fight the fans want to see and for him and for me, that’s a fight that would make sense. We’d give the fans a good show.”
KEVIN SALGADO
“Based on my strategy and what I see the fight being like, I’m confident that I will win by knockout around the fifth or sixth round.
“I feel great, I’m ready for this fight and I can’t wait. I am beyond excited and thankful. These kinds of opportunities are few and far between, so when you have them, you better grab them. I can guarantee you that I’m going to come out with a victory on September 4 and give the fans a great show.
“My brother (former super featherweight champion Juan Carlos Salgado) is always by my side. We both agree that this is an opportunity of a lifetime. We have to make the most of it. Joey is a great opponent, all respect to him. What my brother told me was that I need to stick to my strategy. Don’t get distracted, stay focused, follow the game plan and everything else will follow to take advantage of this chance of a lifetime.
“Outside the ring, we both respect each other. But once we step in the ring, he’s the enemy. And one has to annihilate the enemy. The goal is to vanquish the enemy and come out with a win.
“You’re going to see the changes and adjustments I’m going to make inside the ring when the time comes. What I do know is that Joey Spencer is a fast, agile counterpuncher. I can guarantee you that me and my team are crafting exactly the right strategy in order to be able to not let him do what he wants inside the ring.
“We are ready for whatever comes our way. I’m beyond excited to be a part of this card which has a lot of Mexican fighters and I’m proud to be one of them. Joey Spencer is the perfect opponent for me right now. I’d like to say that you face the good, the very good and the excellent opponents. You have to be ready for each and every one of them.
“The super welterweight division is chock-full of great fighters. The depth is incredible. The goal is to get closer to fighting for a world title and I can do that by fighting a Tony Harrison or a Sebastian Fundora. I’m up for any challenge that comes my way.”
RA’EESE ALEEM
“I’m extremely excited for this opportunity to fight on a stacked card and to be fighting a great fighter in Mike Plania. I’m excited to showcase my skills and talent on the big stage.
“I feel like I’ve been aging like wine. I haven’t been in a lot of wars and I have an extremely high boxing IQ. So, depending on what my opponent is trying to do, sometimes might dictate what I do. I feel like I do it to the best of my ability and I’m going to work to ultimately get the stoppage.
“If the knockout comes, great. He’s an extremely tough fighter, he’s never been stopped. I believe I am capable of making that happen. I just have to be the best version of myself and that’s what I plan on doing.
“I’m extremely grateful. This is a huge opportunity for me to show everybody who Ra’eese Aleem is and what I’m about. So many greats have fought at Crypto.com Arena, in Los Angeles, so I’m really excited.
“I have to remind people what I bring to the table. Boxing is a sport where you have to consistently prove yourself. You have to prove you belong, that a win wasn’t a fluke. That’s the hand I was dealt and that’s fine. I’m ready to reintroduce people to who I am.
“I don’t believe there is any pressure with having an undefeated record. It’s just a testament to how hard I’ve worked to remain undefeated. Every fight at this level is going to be extremely competitive and extremely hard. If it’s anything less than that, then I’ll have an easy night.
“I believe I’m ready for a world title shot, nothing short of that. It should have happened two fights ago. If I beat Plania, that’s the plan. The ultimate goal is to win a world title. I just have to make it to where I’m the mandatory so no one can duck, run, hide or make excuses. They either have to fight or vacate. That’s the situation I’m trying to put myself in.
“I’ve done this the right way. I worked hard to get here. I didn’t take easy fights. It’s been a long, hard journey, but at the end of the day, I know I belong. I am undefeated and I have fought top guys. Mike Plania is another top fighter and I plan on beating him also.
“I don’t believe Stephen Fulton is ducking me, or is scared of me, but I do believe that he’s not jumping to fight me. I don’t believe it’s a fight that he wants. My expectation is that my next fight is to be a world title fight. The ultimate goal is to get the win, look good and keep it moving then make the title fight.
“I don’t believe I’ve gotten the respect I deserve yet. Like I said earlier, boxing is a sport where you have to consistently prove yourself. That’s why I have to make a big statement to show everyone who Ra’eese Aleem is. For whatever reason, I’ve been overlooked or overshadowed, so I have something to prove.
“To hear Mike Plania talk about fighting toe-to-toe just makes me want to smile. I’ve never been in the ring with a fighter who was able to stand toe-to-toe with me. I don’t believe that’s his game plan. If it is, then good luck. I am a beast. I am prepared to go the distance but if he wants to go toe-to-toe then it’s going to be on and popping. I am an exciting fighter. I throw punches in bunches. I don’t run. I don’t hold and it’s going to be a real exciting fight on September 4.
“I believe I’m going to come and be the best version of myself and ultimately dominating the fight. As long as I don’t go for the knockout, I think I’ll get the knockout early. I don’t see it going the full 10 rounds, but I’m just trying to be the best version of myself. I do see me being victorious in this fight.”
MIKE PLANIA
“I’m very excited for this match. I trained hard for this fight on September 4. It’s going to be good. My training has gone well and I’m 100%. I’ve stayed focused and I got this.
“This could be my coming out party. First of all, I respect Aleem. He’s a good fighter, a real fighter. But I’m here to give the fans the fight they want. I’m ready. So let’s see what happens on September 4.
“This is a big opportunity. I’d like to thank TGB Promotions and my team for helping me throughout this camp. I want to thank my sparring partners and to my trainer, Osmiri “Moro” Fernandez. He did a lot to help me and I feel I’ve had a good training camp. I’m excited to fight at Crypto.com Arena. This is a big fight and I’m ready.
“After this fight, my dream is to fight for a world title. That has been my dream since I was a kid. So I want to make that happen. I want the world title next.
“I expect Aleem, a good fighter, to fight toe-to-toe. I have confidence because I worked very hard in my training. No excuses. I want to fight toe-to-toe with Aleem. I have my game plan and I am ready for this. This fight I want to prove myself and show who is Mike Plania in the ring. September 4, you don’t want to miss this fight. Let’s do it.”
CLARESSA SHIELDS MIAMI/FT. LAUDERDALE MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES
MIRAMAR, Fla. – August 11, 2022 – Boxing superstar Claressa “G.W.O.A.T.” Shields held a media workout in the Miami/Ft. Lauderdale area on Thursday as she nears her upcoming undisputed middleweight world championship showdown against longtime rival Savannah Marshall.
Shields vs. Marshall will take place on Saturday, September 10 from The O2, London and be available on ESPN+ for audiences in the U.S. Shields will bring the WBA, WBC and IBF middleweight titles into the showdown against Marshall and her WBO strap, in an event promoted by Salita Promotions and BOXXER in association with Hennessy Sports.
Shields will look to avenge the only loss of her amateur career and end a long war of words with Marshall that has reached a boil in recent years and which stems from Marshall’s points victory over Shields in a 2012 amateur bout.
Joining Shields on Thursday were her trainer John David Jackson and promoter Dmitriy Salita, President of Salita Promotions. In addition, rising 20-year-old prospect Sarah Liegmann showed off her skills ahead of her bout on the Shields vs. Marshall undercard.
Here is what the workout participants had to say Thursday from Square Off Boxing & Fitness:
CLARESSA SHIELDS
On how she feels in training a month away from fight night…
“My body feels good and looks good too. I’m in great spirits. Everybody keeps asking me about my nerves. Sadly, I don’t have any nerves before any fight. I’m super excited to fight. I don’t know why, but I just enjoy it.
“Training camp is really the hardest part leading up to the fight. People say that the fight is going to be the hardest part, and I just don’t believe that the fight will be harder than me putting in three different training sessions per day with four miles of sprints and then me coming to the gym and doing the second session. I don’t believe that one night and a 10-round fight with Savannah Marshall, or any other woman, would be harder than my training.”
On the rivalry with Marshall…
“I don’t know if I dislike (Marshall) more, or was it Christina Hammer? I don’t know. I know both of them are just idiots. Savannah Marshall, she says some of the dumbest things… She said if she walked around calling herself the G.W.O.A.T. that her friends would slap her. As they should… You have one belt. Please don’t call yourself the G.W.O.A.T. Please don’t. The only people who I think have any right to call themselves the G.W.O.A.T. is Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano. Everyone else, zip it. Savannah Marshall, zip it. You’ve been pro for five years and only have one belt. Of course, your friends should slap you. I should slap you for you talking about wanting to be the G.W.O.A.T., or you’re the G.W.O.A.T. because you beat me 10 years ago.”
To those that are doubting her in this fight…
“To all of you that are doubting me, just make sure you apologize after the fight. Say, ‘We were wrong.’ You don’t have to say you’re the G.W.O.A.T. Just say, ‘We were wrong, you’re the best and we respect you.’ And that you respect my hard work and my accomplishments because (Marshall) was the fluke. Her beating me in 2012 before the Olympics was the fluke of her career. That was her biggest achievement. After that, downhill. It wasn’t a fluke that I won the 2012 Olympics because I won it again, and I won the world championships three times after that. So, she was the fluke, and she’s still a fluke because she’s knocked out a whole bunch of bums.”
On Marshall’s power…
“This whole talk is overblown. A lot of people don’t really realize how many haters I have. I’m one of the most sought-after women boxers and people pay a lot of attention to me, but I have a lot of haters because of how great I am. It’s kind of like I’m Floyd Mayweather, but in a woman’s body, you know.
“So, they want me to lose and they’re going to say anything to make her feel like she’s better. I mean look, I accept her knockout because they’re there. She’s 12-0 with 10 knockouts, but go and look at those girls’ records and then tell me whether she should be knocking them out, or not. And you’re going to say, ‘Yea, you should be knocking out somebody that’s 4-25. You should be knocking out somebody that’s 11-75.’ Plus, you’re fighting them on three days’ notice, a week’s notice. You’re supposed to knock girls out like that.”
On the importance of this fight…
“It’s important to win every fight. (Marshall) doesn’t hold a special place in my heart to where I want to beat her more than I want to beat anyone else in my life. No, that’s not it. I think that people that I think too highly of her. I think she’s a good fighter. I think she’s a big girl for the weight class. But she’s not as skilled as me. She’s not as smart as me, and she doesn’t know how to adjust. That’s what we’re going to see on September 10.”
JOHN DAVID JACKSON, Shields’ Trainer
On preparing Shields for Marshall…
“For this particular camp, there are some certain things we’re working on and that we can take away from Savannah. She’s good, but she’s not as good as she thinks she is. So, we just work on different things. Each fight is different for Claressa and we just want to go in there nice, relaxed and calm and not trying to knock her head off right away because you’ll get her, but it’s probably later than sooner. So, we’re just working on certain things to break Marshall down.”
On Liegmann’s development…
“Sarah has come a long way. She didn’t really box. She kickboxed. But now she’s starting to understand the game of boxing and she’s a lot better now. As time went on, when she came back to America, all the things I told her to work on she had worked on them… I saw the cream of the crop at 126-lbs and she has a shot. She definitely has a shot.”
DMITRIY SALITA, President of Salita Promotions
“There are few male fighters in the history of the sport from the United States who at the peak of their careers have gone across the pond or to a different country to fight their rivals. Floyd Mayweather never left the United States when he was at the peak of his career. Oscar De La Hoya never left the United States during the peak of his career. All these guys, Olympic gold medalists, fantastic fighters, but Claressa is at the top of women’s boxing and is choosing to go across the pond to avenge her only loss in a very, very meaningful event. It’s that type of drive, personality and character that makes a great athlete and a great fighter.”
SARAH LIEGMANN, Unbeaten Prospect
On being a part of the September 10 fight card…
“It’s amazing to be here, train here and have the possibility to fight on this historic fight card. It’s a huge opportunity for me to show the world what I’m capable of. I’m 10 years in already in martial arts, now three years in boxing, and to be on this card just feels amazing.”
On training in Florida…
“To train here in Florida with John David Jackson and to see Claressa Shields training, she’s so inspiring.”
On the hope of becoming a world champion boxer…
“It’s my biggest dream to have the belts. I always wanted to compete. I’m a fighter from when I was a kid and all the way on. I always wanted to step in the ring. I always saw the heavyweight champions, like Anthony Joshua, Mike Tyson and Tyson Fury, and I always wanted these belts and to be the one.”
UNDEFEATED RISING STAR BRANDUN LEE TAKES ON WILL MADERA ON SATURDAY, AUGUST 20 SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® IN AN EVENT PRESENTED BY PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS
NEW YORK – August 11, 2022 – Brandun Lee, one of the sport’s most exciting prospects and biggest punchers, will take on Will Madera in a 10-round super lightweight bout Saturday, August 20 live on SHOWTIME from Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla. in a Premier Boxing Champions event. The newly added bout will serve as the opener to a loaded four-fight SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast that now begins live on SHOWTIME at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.
Additionally, SHOWTIME SPORTS will offer live streaming coverage of unbeaten Cuban heavyweight standout Lenier Peró battling Joel Caudle in an eight-round bout and undefeated middleweight Fiodor Czerkaszyn taking on Gilbert Venegas Jr. in an eight-round duel via the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page prior to the start of the televised quadrupleheader. The SHOWTIME BOXING COUNTDOWN streaming show begins at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT and will be called by SHOBOX® analyst and MORNING KOMBAT host Brian Campbell alongsideformer unified welterweight world champion Keith “One Time” Thurman joining as guest analyst.
The televised card is topped by four-division world champion Adrien “The Problem” Broner returning to take on all-action former world champion Omar “Panterita” Figueroa in a super lightweight showdown. Plus, top 140-pounders Alberto Puello and Batyr Akhmedov square off for the vacant WBA Super Lightweight World Championship in the co-main event and WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Roger Gutierrez defends his title against unbeaten Hector Garcia.
Lee (25-0, 22 KOs) of La Quinta, Calif., has stopped 15 of his last 16 opponents and is one of the sport’s most fearsome punchers. Showing both one-punch power and the ability to outbox his rivals, Lee, 23, recently dominated tough veteran Zachary Ochoa in April and has quickly established himself as a force at 140 pounds. Trained by his father Bobby, Lee has kept up a busy schedule, fighting four times in 2020, three times in 2021 and now twice in 2022. He was also an accomplished amateur, going an estimated 195 amateur fights with only five losses and capturing gold at the prestigious 2015 U.S. Junior National Championships at 145 pounds. Lee predicted a resounding victory on August 20.
“Madera is a technical fighter that will do whatever he wants if you allow him to, so it’s important that I check him right away,” said Lee. “I have been in training camp for 12 weeks now as I was going to fight on August 6th, but the show got cancelled. I’ve run more miles, sparred more rounds, and put in more hours in the gym than I ever have before. I’m looking forward to stepping into the ring next week and giving the people what they want: knockouts! I’ll be 26-0 at the end of the night, mark my words.”
Madera (17-1-3, 10 KOs), from Albany, N.Y., is a come-forward, aggressive fighter who has faced high-level competition in his career. In his last bout, Madera, 31, scored perhaps his biggest win when he stopped then 19-1 Jamshidbek Najmitdinov after the fifth round in October 2021. Madera owns a decision win over Thomas Mattice in February 2019 and a split-decision draw against Wesley Ferrer in 2017. Both Mattice and Ferrer entered their fights against Madera undefeated. In total, Madera has conquered three undefeated opponents since turning pro in 2013.
“I’d like to thank SHOWTIME for this opportunity,” said Madera. “I was training very hard for August 6th against Brandun Lee and am very happy we were able to reschedule the bout. Remember that people may doubt you at times, but never doubt yourself. If you work and strive for greatness, you will be rewarded. Big thank you to my team for the opportunity.”
A 2016 Olympian for his native Cuba, the 6-4 Peró (7-0, 4 KOs) made a successful stateside debut in January, earning a unanimous decision over the previously unbeaten Geovany Bruzon at Hard Rock Live. Now fighting out of Miami, the 29-year-old has fought professionally since 2019 and won five Cuban national championships throughout a stellar amateur career. He will take on Raleigh, N.C.’s Caudle (9-6-2, 6 KOs), who most recently earned a stoppage victory over then unbeaten Robert Sabbagh in February. That win snapped a five-bout losing streak for the 32-year-old, with those defeats coming against unbeaten foes.
The 26-year-old Czerkaszyn (19-0, 12 KOs) will make his stateside debut on August 20 after adding three victories to his tally in 2021. Originally from Ukraine and now fighting out of Warsaw, Poland, Czerkaszyn turned pro in 2015 and owns three 10-round unanimous decisions on his record, hardly losing a round throughout the contests. He takes on Venegas Jr. (11-1, 7 KOs), an East Moline, Ill. native who last fought in April 2019 when he knocked out Adam Ealoms in round four. His lone defeat came in a 2018 showdown against veteran Kendo Castaneda, which he lost by decision after 10 rounds.
The stacked off-TV undercard will include former world champions returning to action as Sergey Lipinets (16-2-1, 12 KOs) faces Carlos Portillo (22-4, 17 KOs) in an eight-round super lightweight fight, while three-time U.S. Olympian Rau’shee Warren (19-3, 5 KOs) takes on Francisco Portillo (17-11-2, 10 KOs) in an eight-round bantamweight affair. In addition, super lightweight contender Ismael Barroso (23-3-2, 21 KOs) competes in an eight-round fight against Fernando Saucedo (63-9-3, 10 KOs).
Rounding out the action is rising light heavyweight prospect Atif Oberlton (5-0, 5 KOs) in a six-round showdown against Orlando’s Robert Burwell (9-6, 3 KOs) and super welterweight Evan Holyfield (9-1, 6 KOs), the son of former heavyweight world champion Evander Holyfield, in an eight-round fight taking on Jurmain McDonald (7-6, 3 KOs) in a rematch of their May encounter in which McDonald KO’d Holyfield.
# # #
ABOUT BRONER VS. FIGUEROA
Broner vs. Figueroa will see four-division world champion Adrien “The Problem” Broner, one of the sport’s most notable attractions and biggest personalities, make his long-awaited return against all-action former world champion Omar “Panterita” Figueroa in a 12-round super lightweight showdown headlining action live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, August 20 from Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla. in a Premier Boxing Champions event.
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will feature top 140-pounders Alberto Puello and Batyr Akhmedov squaring off for the vacant WBA Super Lightweight World Championship in the co-main event. Plus, WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Roger Gutierrez defends his title against unbeaten Hector Garcia in the telecast opener and rising star Brandun Lee faces Will Madera in a 10-round super lightweight bout that opens the telecast.
Paulino, Cusumano face new challenges August 20 at Summer Heat
Uncasville, CT – The fight night lineup keeps getting stronger in anticipation of CES Boxing’s long-awaited return to Mohegan Sun Arena.
Summer Heat, scheduled for Saturday, August 20 and promoted by CES Boxing, features the top fighters in the northeast showcasing their talents in one of the region’s preeminent combat sports venues, headlined by 6-foot-6 heavyweight Cassius Chaney from New London, CT, facing Troy, NY, veteran Shawn Miller in the 10-round main event.
The most recent addition to the card is unbeaten super featherweight sensation Alejandro Paulino, also of New London, battling dangerous Bronx, NY, vet Brandon Idrogo in a six-round bout that could steal the show on what is an already stacked fight card. The co-main event features hard-hitting Sicilian heavyweight Juiseppe Cusumano facing the 6-foot-3 Dennis Ventura of Lynn, MA.
Summer Heat kicks off at 7 pm ET. Tickets are available online at CESFights.com, MoheganSun.com, or through the Mohegan Sun box office. August 20 marks CES’ first show at Mohegan Sun Arena since October of 2015, renewing a long-standing partnership between the region’s top combat sports promotion and one of the world’s foremost entertainment venues.
Paulino figures to be one of the region’s top attractions for years to come, eventually with the pedigree to headline a major show in the northeast. Next weekend, he faces his toughest test to date against the 24-year-old Idrogo, who boasts six wins – all by knockout.
A former New England Golden Gloves Champion and National Golden Gloves semi-finalist as an amateur, Paulino makes his third appearance with CES. In his first fight with the promotion, he recovered from an early knockdown to defeat Andrew Rodgers by unanimous decision. He returned in June to earn his ninth career knockout win, beating Aldimar Silva in just 54 seconds.
Paulino trains under the guidance of Big Sox Boxing Academy’s Roland Estrada, the father of former Olympian and heavyweight contender Jason “Big Six” Academy. Paulino have another familiar face in the arena next Saturday as his girlfriend, pro welterweight Stevie Jane Coleman of nearby Columbia, fights on the undercard in a four-round bout against Jesenia Rivas of Denver.
Fresh off his comeback win in June, Cusumano now faces the upset-minded Ventura, who boasts three wins by knockout. After a loss to Daniel Dubois a year ago, Cusumano relocated his entire training camp, earned his 20th professional win by knockout two months ago, and is now exclusively training out of Champs Boxing & Fitness in Danbury, CT, under the guidance of coach Dave McDonough.
Also at Summer Heat, undefeated Irish super middleweight Francis Hogan of Weymouth, MA, battlingCleotis Pendarvis of Lancaster, CA, in six-round bout; Stoughton, MA, heavyweight Sean Bey putting his perfect record and knockout streak on the line against Dallas’ John Shipman in a four-round bout; and lightweight Jonathan de Pina of Boston batting New York’s Christian Otero in a six-round bout; and rising welterweight prospect Gary Balletto III of Cranston, RI; battling Niagara Falls’ newcomer Jeremiah David Austin in a four-round bout.
Unbeaten Springfield, MA, welterweight Jalen Renaud, middleweight James Maner of Providence, RI; and New York City super middleweight Jahvel Joseph also appear on the card in separate bouts.
Additional details for Summer Heat are available online. For more information, follow CES Boxing on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @CESBOXING.
INFORMATION
CES Boxingis 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.
Mohegan Sun Arena is one of the busiest Arenas in the United States and is ranked consistently among the top venues in the world according to Billboard Magazine, Pollstar and VenuesNow. Mohegan Sun Arena finished 2021 with its first “#1 Indoor Arena” ranking for its capacity in the world according to Pollstar and VenuesNow, ranked among the top 10 venues in the United States regardless of size based on ticket sales, and was named “2021 Innovator of the Year” by Celebrity Access for its ViacomCBS residency. In recent years, the award-winning venue has also been the “#1 Casino Venue in the World,” “#1 Social Media Venue in the World” and a seven-time national award winner for “Casino of the Year – Arena” by the Academy of Country Music. For more information on concerts and other great events, visit MoheganSun.com. For information on this week’s schedule, call the Entertainment and Special Events hotline at 1.888.226.7711.
JUAN HUERTAS DEFENDS HIS WBO LATINO LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE AGAINST MIGUEL MADUENO ON FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 IN PLANT CITY, FL, STREAMED LIVE WORLDWIDE ON PROBOX TV AND THE PROBOX TV APP
PLANT CITY, Florida (August 10, 2022): Juan “El Olimpico” Huertas will defend his World Boxing Organization (WBO) Latino lightweight title against Miguel “Explosivo” Madueno ProBox TV’s September 9 main event. These two ‘banger/punchers’ will fight at the ProBox Events Center in Plant City, Florida and the card will be streamed live at PROBOXTV.com and the ProBox TV app.
“I cannot wait to fight on ProBox TV again,” said Huertas “My last fight was on ProBox TV and I came in as underdog against an undefeated fighter and knocked him out in the first round to win the WBO Latino title. On September 9, I’ll be looking for a KO repeat to defend it!”
“I’m ready to fight Huerta today,” said Madueno. “I can’t wait to get back in the ring and showcase myself. What better opportunity than this one for a belt and on a big platform. I was not successful in my last performance, but styles make fights and this one is the perfect match for me. Huerta is tough, I know he is, but I will show the world that I’m tougher and better than him.”
“El Olimpico” Huertas (16-3-1, 12 KOs) from Panama City, Panama, represented Panama in the 2012 Olympics and made his professional debut on May 15, 2013. In his last two fights, following a two-year pandemic forced hiatus, he won both via first-round stoppage. His most recent win, on June 17 in Panama City, he beat Jonhatan Cardoso to win the WBO Latino Lightweight title. Huertas is a former WBA Fedecentro Super Featherweight Champion, winning that in only his seventh professional fight. He is also a former WBA Fedalatin Super Featherweight champion.
“Explosivo” Madueno (27-1, 25 KOs) is from Guasave, Sinaloa, Mexico, now residing in Orange County, California. The twenty-three-year-old made his professional debut on January 27, 2017 and his September 9 fight against Huertas will be his first title fight of any kind. His last fight was the first and only loss of his professional career. His fourth professional fight was his only other fight that went the distance.
ProBox TV was founded by Roy Jones Jr., Juan Manuel Marquez, Antonio Tarver, Paulie Malignaggi and Garry Jonas. Miguel Cotto recently joined the team. As always, the ‘Big 4’ will be calling the action from ringside.
The ProBox TV bi-monthly schedule for the remainder of 2022 is as follows: August 19, September 9, September 23, October 7, October 26, November 4, November 18, December 2, December 9. There is also weekly original content produced by the founders including, podcasts, talk shows and in the gym content, plus monthly documentaries and behind the scenes content. All for the nominal fee of $1.99 per month. In 2023 there will be one live boxing event per month from USA, Puerto Rico and Mexico – that’s three live boxing events per month.
FRANK WARREN HAS bolstered the heavyweight contingent at Queensberry with the signing of professional newcomer Boma Brown.
The 6ft 6″, 18-stoner from North West London is the most recent recruit to a promotional heavyweight brigade that includes WBC, Ring Magazine and Lineal world champion Tyson Fury, WBA world champion Daniel Dubois, WBC Silver, WBO International No.1 ranked contender Joe Joyce, plus emerging prospects David Adeleye and George Fox.
He is trained by Paul Stevenson at the Everton Red Triangle gym in Liverpool, where he counts the formidable trio of Nick Ball, Andrew Cain and Brad Strand as teammates and is looking to emulate their success on the Queensberry and BT Sport platform.
“I am buzzing to have signed with Frank and he is somebody who, since I started boxing, I have always looked at and thought it would be nice to meet him one day,” said Brown on his promotional union. “So I was kind of shell shocked more than anything to be meeting him, but it was really nice. He seems like a down-to-earth fella who comes from a humble background, he is somebody I can definitely relate to and want to impress as well, going forward.”
Brown, just turned 27, took up boxing after being inspired by the 2015 Las Vegas Showdown between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao. He was based in the Midlands where he was undertaking a degree course in Business and Law at Coventry University, where he ultimately graduated with a 2.1.
“I remember watching the Mayweather-Pacquiao fight years ago and it made me want to try out the sport. It sounds like a cliche, but once I tried it, I fell in love with it straight away and never looked back.
“I took myself to a local gym in Coventry called the Red Corner Boxing Club and did a few classes before they referred me to an amateur club called Bell Green and I boxed there before moving to Birmingham and joining Jewellery Quarter ABC, that was unfortunately closed down during Covid and we all moved to Pat Benson’s Boxing Club, which is the old Small Heath Boxing Club.
“So I boxed there and had 21 fights, with 14 or 15 wins. I would say I’m a puncher, anybody who has been in the ring with me or sparred me will talk about my power and it is something I do have in abundance.
“I won two Midlands titles and an Elite Midlands title belt as well.”
All roads led to Liverpool for the diehard Arsenal fan due to his girlfriend – and now new mother to a baby girl – returning to settle in nearby Warrington, so Brown re-established contact with trainer Stevenson after encountering him during his amateur days.
“Funnily enough, I boxed one of Paul’s lads in the amateurs and sort of just kept in touch with him on Facebook and stuff like that. Towards the back end of last year he reached out to me and asked what my plans were.
“With my missus about to have a baby we were moving back to Warrington so things fell into place a little bit. I told Paul the situation and he said to come over to Liverpool to have a few sessions and see how I found it.
“I did that, it clicked straight away and I have been there for four or five months now. So my life has totally changed and it is funny how things work out, what with moving to Warrington and it being close to Liverpool, leading me to a great gym and trainer.
“The mentality of the lads in the gym is rubbing off on me massively and you can see why they are doing so well. Being in the gym with them these last few months has been amazing, they have all welcomed me in nicely and I am starting to get the hang of it all. It is going to be a good ride.
“Frank said to me that he plans to get me started in September-October time and also mentioned that a Dubois or Joyce undercard would be a good place to announce myself.”
Frank Warren added on his new heavyweight: “Boma is going to be an exciting addition to the heavyweight ranks and we are blessed here at Queensberry to have such a stronghold in the division.
“The fact he is being trained and prepared by Paul Stevenson in Liverpool suggests to me that Boma can make a huge impact and go far in the sport. If Paul can conjure up a heavyweight version of Nick Ball or Andrew Cain then we really will be onto something special.
“We are getting to the point where we could fill a card with heavyweights and I am looking forward to seeing what Boma brings to the party in the near future.”
News on Brown’s pro debut date will be announced tomorrow…
Rising Mexican super lightweight prospect Jorge Lugo Cota continuing family fighting legacy on “Canela Boxeo”
LOS ANGELES (August 11, 2022) – The next generation of Mexican boxers is developing and one of the leaders is 20-year-old super lightweight Jorge “Jorgito” Lugo Cota (8-0, 6 KOs), the latest member of Mexico’s famed fightin’ Montiel family, who will be fighting at home August 19th on the next installment of the “Canela Boxeo” series, presented by CANELA BOXEO, and World Cup Boxing Series (WCBS), led by CEO Terry Hollan and promoter/matchmaker Guy Taylor, at Centennial Sports Center in Los Mochis, Sonora, Mexico.
“Canela Boxeo” will be held and streamed live for free the third Friday evening every month, starting at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, in Mexico.
The 8-round co-featured event will showcase Cota against Jesus Antonio “Chino” Rubio (13-5-2, 7 KOs), the past World Boxing Association (WBA) Interim World super lightweight challenger. Cota was a standout amateur boxer who compiled a record of 155-10, to go along with numerous state and national championship gold-medal performances. Jorge’s uncle, 5-time world champion, Fernando Montiel (54,6 39 KOs), is the color analyst for “Canela Boxeo.”
“I feel very happy to fight in my city, Los Mochis, with my people and family,” Cota said. “I am ready to give a great fight for all the fans and friends. I’m not concerned about fighting in my first scheduled 8-rounder.I feel happy. It’s not something that worries me. I really want to fight and, if the fight goes the distance, I’ll be ready.
“I don’t feel pressure (as a member of the Montiel family), to the contrary, I feel well supported by one of the best teams in the world. I know if I give my best, the result will be positive. I’ve learned many things from my family: work hard – we always work hard in the gym – discipline and, above all, a winning mentality.
“Fighting on Canela.TV will be very good for me so that people throughout the United States and all of Latin America can watch me fight for free. I saw the last event they did in Hermosillo, and it looked very good. I feel very motivated to get into the ring.”
WCBS isn’t concerned about pushing Cota too fast, according to Taylor, who commented: “Jorge isn’t your typical stereotype of what a ‘Mexican fighter’ should be. He’s very elusive with great defense and countering abilities. Jorge has yet to lose a single round during his young pro career.
“I’ve always been known as an aggressive matchmaker, but this might be too aggressive, even for me. We (WCBS) have total confidence in Jorge and the Montiel family. A victory over a former world title challenger on Canela Boxeo will be a huge statement to the boxing world.”
In 2021, Rubio defeated former world-ranked challenger and United States Boxing Association (USBA) Champion Sonny Fredrickson (21-3), earning Rubio an opportunity to challenge undefeated Alberto Puello (20-0) vacant World Boxing Association (WBA) Interim Junior Welterweight World Championship, albeit in a 12-round loss by way of decision
“I don’t know too much about my opponent,” Cota added. “I know that he fought in Los Mochis last year and for a world championship, but I’m not used to seeing my opponents. I do what my family tells me to do in the ring and gym. I’m going to knock him out, probably between the fifth and seventh rounds.”
In a bitter Sinaloa vs. Sonora rivalry fight, WCBS’ newest signing, Manuel Gallegos (19-1, 16 KOs, also fighting out of Los Mochis, Sinaloa, takes on light heavyweight Jesus “Mazo” Moroyoqui (10-1, 7 KOs), of Navojoa, Sonora, in the 8-round main event.
“Canela Boxeo” – LIVE, EXCLUSIVE and FREE stream — on CANELA.TV, presented by World Cup Boxing Series, on Friday, August 19th from the Centennial Sports Center in Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico, starting 9 p.m. ET / 6 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/
SONIA OSORIO TO DEFEND HER WBC INTERIM SUPER FLYWEIGHT TITLE IN GRUDGE REMATCH AGAINST ADELAIDA RUIZ AS CO-MAIN EVENT OF VALLE VS. NGUYEN
SAN JOSE, COSTA RICA (August 11, 2022) – Tickets are now available for purchase for Golden Boy Fight Night on DAZN: Valle vs. Nguyen on Thursday, September 8. The fight card will take place at Ciudad Deportiva Heiner Ugalde, Hatillo, San José, Costa Rica and will be broadcast live on DAZN, the Golden Boy Boxing Youtube page, and the Marvnation Youtube page starting at 6:00 p.m. PT / 9:00 p.m. ET.
The main event will feature the first-ever world title unification fight in Costa Rica as IBF Minimumweight World Champion, Yokasta “Yoka” Valle (25-2, 9 KOs), of San Jose, Costa Rica faces off against undefeated, WBO Minimumweight World Champion Thi Thu Nhi Nguyen (5-0, 1 KOs) of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam in a 10-round world championship.
The newly announced co-main event will feature a bad-blood rematch between WBC Interim Super Flyweight title holder Sonia Osorio (15-7-2, 2 KOs) who will defend her title against Adelaida “La Cobra” Ruiz (11-0-1, 6 KOs). The two will meet again after their first scrap in March 2021 ended in a draw when the fight was stopped at the second round after Osorio suffered a cut over her left eye due to an accidental head butt, allowing Osorio to keep the WBC interim title.
Osorio, originally from Mexico City, captured the WBC Interim Super Flyweight title in October 2019 when she outboxed Estrella Valverde and defeated her by unanimous decision. She has faced top fighters such as Seniesa Estrada and Marlen Esparza and plans to retain her title a second time against Ruiz.
“I’m very happy to once again fight against Adelaida Ruiz,” said Sonia Osorio. “It’s a fight that has been a long time in the making. Like always, I am working hard. I’m a professional, and I hope to deliver a great fight. I know it will be a great event, and I will retain my title because that’s why I have been training so hard.”
Representing Los Angeles, Ruiz’s only blemish is a technical draw against Osorio, but immediately returned to the ring with back-to-back knockout victories over Nancy Franco and Edith Flores.
“This fight means a lot to me,” said Adelaida Ruiz. “I’ve wanted this fight for more than a year. I felt like they took the title away from me when I fought her in Mexico, but God has given me another opportunity to fight for the title. It’s a big step forward in my career, and I’m willing to sacrifice everything to win. We are training very hard for this fight. Sonia will see a different ‘Cobra,’ both mentally and physically.”
Opening the televised card, Pico Rivera, CA’s Angel “El Moreno” Rodriguez (11-1, 8 KOs) will battle Monterrey, Mex.’s Ivan Delgado (5-0, 3 KOs) in a 6-round lightweight match. Also featured on the card is Long Beach, CA’s Raul “Money” Solomon (11-1, 9 KOs) in a 6-round super middleweight fight and Tijuana, Mex.’s Jose Garcia (15-1-1, 14 KOs) who will participate in an 8-round super lightweight fight. Opponents for both will be announced soon.
Kickstarting fight night, Mexico City’s Anabel “Avispa” Ortiz (31-5, 4 KOs) will be looking to redeem her record after suffering a loss to Marlen Esparza last December. A two-time mini flyweight world champion, Ortiz held the WBA title from 2013 to 2021 and the WBC title from 2009 to 2011. She will be in a 10-round flyweight bout against Maria “La Imparable” Santizo (9-1, 5 KOs) of Guatemala City, Guatemala.
Golden Boy Fight Night on DAZN: Valle vs. Nguyen is presented by Golden Boy in association with Marvnation. The 10-round minimumweight event is sponsored by “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Thursday, September 8 at Ciudad Deportiva Heiner Ugalde, Hatillo, San José, Costa Rica, and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN and the Golden Boy Boxing Youtube Channel.
Katie Taylor has blasted Jake Paul’s suggestion that the rematch of the mega Madison Square Garden showdown with Amanda Serrano should be at 126lbs or a 130lbs catchweight.
Taylor (21-0, 6 KO’s), who edged out Serrano back in April to retain her Lightweight crown in an epic fight for the ages, spoke on Matchroom Boxing’s new podcast Flash Knockdown and stood firm that the rematch will only happen at Lightweight.
“What is that about?”, said Taylor. I’ve never heard such nonsense in all my life. I’ve never heard someone say something as stupid as that to be quite honest. I think they’re just trying to play a few games. I’m pretty sure Jake knows I’m not going to get down to 126, I don’t think I’ve ever heard of a situation in boxing where the champion wins but has the rematch in a lower weight division. It is real nonsense! I don’t know if he’s playing games or it is naivety but the rematch is going to be at 135lbs.
“I don’t think Amanda’s recent fight falling through will delay or effect the rematch. I was hoping for the rematch to happen straight after the last fight but it doesn’t look like it’s going to happen until next year now.
“I just want to be involved in the biggest fights possible but I’m not sure who I’m going to be fighting next right now but I’m planning on returning to the ring this year in November / December. The team have been talking to the likes of Cris Cyborg. I only had two or three days off after the Serrano fight so I’m just itching to get back in the ring!”
As well as speaking about the Serrano rematch, Taylor also reflected on the first fight with her Puerto Rican dance parter and her memories of the London Games, admitting the whole experience in New York surpassed the emotions she felt when she captured Olympic Gold ten years ago this week.
“I never thought anything would surpass the London Olympics but I think that night at Madison Square Garden did surpass it! It was definitely the most special experience of my career to date. The atmosphere between the Irish and the Puerto Rican fans was incredible, you couldn’t even hear the bell ringing! It was history making and a huge moment for the sport.
“In big fights there is always the possibility that you’re going to get hurt at some stage but that’s where all the training and preparation comes into play. I put myself in the trenches everyday and that’s what allows you to show your heart and your courage in the ring. I’m just glad I was able to get through those tough moments in the fifth round and then come on stronger as the fight went on.
“Thinking about the Olympics, it does and it doesn’t feel ten years ago. I can definitely remember the day as if it was yesterday but a lot has happened in those ten years. It was my childhood dream coming to pass, I was going into the competition with so much pressure on me and the weight of the nation on my shoulders. When I won gold it was just a feeling of relief more than anything!
“I remember putting on my Olympic kit and thinking how I’d dreamt of this moment. Looking at the Olympic Rings on my shorts and knowing I was about to walk out to represent my country at the Games, it was so special.
“Everyone in Ireland assumed I was going to win gold, I don’t think I slept for a second the night before the final! I don’t think anything will ever compare to the pressure I felt at the Olympic Games. If I got through those games, I can get through anything in life! When I started boxing at ten years old there was no real such thing as women’s boxing but now at home in Ireland when you see all the young girls in the gyms, that means everything to me.
OLYMPIC HERO HEBERT CONCEICAO MAKES PRO DEBUT ON UZBEK CARD
LONDON, AUGUST 11 – Olympic gold medallist Hebert Conceição will be unleashed into the professional ranks this weekend.
The Brazilian hero, who claimed gold in spectacular fashion in Tokyo last summer, makes his professional debut on Saturday night in Tashkent, Uzbekistan on a show staged by LIFT Promotions.
Probellum fighter Conceicao dramatically knocked out Ukraine’s Oleksandr Khyzhniak in the final round of their middleweight showdown at the Olympics and ever since that win, the 24-year-old has been working diligently behind closed doors to prepare for life as a pro.
Conceição faces Nicaragua’s Danny Mendoza over six rounds at the Humo Arena, on a card that features two other Olympic champions.
“My professional debut will come just over a year since I won my Olympic gold medal in that unforgettable final,” Conceição said.
“I have spent the past year working hard in gyms around the world with my coach Luiz Dorea, to make sure I am ready to make a statement as a professional.
“Give me 18 months and I believe I will be ready for big fights and titles and so August 13, in Uzbekistan, is the beginning of a beautiful journey that will culminate in me bringing world titles back to Brazil.”
Conceição was due to make his pro bow in mid-June in Dubai but a last-minute withdrawal by his opponent, citing an injury, meant the Olympic star had to bide his time.
But the wait is now over with Conceição joining Fazliddin Gaibnazarov and Shakhobidin Zoirov, gold medallists from Rio 2016, on the show.
To keep up to date with the latest news on Conceicao’s pro debut 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.
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.
FRAZER CLARKE MAKES QUICK RETURN TO RING: ‘BIG FRAZE’ BACK IN ACTION IN LIVERPOOL ON SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3RD
Liverpool, England – 11th August 2022 – Fresh off his stunning stoppage win in Bournemouth last month, Burton battler Frazer ‘Big Fraze’ Clarke (2-0, 2 KO’s) is making a quick return to the ring for more heavyweight havoc.
The massive Midlander has been added to the line-up for the BOXXER event taking place Saturday, 3rd September at the M&S Bank Arena, Liverpool, live on Sky Sports.
Tickets for BOXXER: Liverpool – which sees hometown hero Liam Smith debuting with BOXXER and Tasha Jonas fighting for the unified world title – are on sale now via BOXXER.com, with prices starting at just £30.
Clarke, who captained the Team GB boxing squad at the 2020 Olympic Games and won a bronze medal for his country, will be making his third professional outing when he enters the ring in Liverpool.
Last month, he stopped twenty-fight Argentinian veteran Ariel Esteban Bracamonte in the final seconds of the second round, unleashing a combination which showcased his trademark mixture of ferocious power and technical boxing ability.
“I’m so excited to be fighting again so soon, especially in Liverpool which is one of my favourite fight cities in the world,” said Frazer Clarke.
“Liverpool is full of great characters and fighters. And it is a city which I have very fond memories in, notably when I won my ABA title there. I’m looking forward to bringing an exciting performance to the city on what is a great show which has some great fights on the card.”
Ben Shalom, BOXXER Founder and CEO, said: “We’re massively excited about ‘Big Fraze’s’ future with us at BOXXER. There are so many big fight nights to look forward to. For now, it’s important to see him back in action as we build upon that journey. But it was clear for all to see in Bournemouth just how devastating he can be, with his impressive knockout victory over Esteban Bracamonte. Frazer will fire another warning to the heavyweight division when he fights on what is an unmissable card in Liverpool on 3rd September.”
Adam Smith, Head of Boxing Development at Sky Sports, “Big Fraze was on blistering form in Bournemouth and now he’s back in action, making a quick turnaround to get on this Liverpool card to give boxing fans in the north of England a chance to see the kind of firepower he delivered at last month’s battle on the beach.
“This is Frazer Clarke’s third professional outing. He’s ended his first two well inside the distance and he’s surely going for the hat-trick in this one, as he continues his journey to greatness in what was once the gateway to the Empire, the great port city of Liverpool. Never a dull moment when Big Fraze is in the ring!”
Clarke, meanwhile, has also been confirmed as a studio guest on Sky Sports Box Office for the Anthony Joshua-Oleksandr Usyk fight night on Saturday, August 20th. Earlier that day, he will appear on Soccer AM, fronted by John ‘Fenners’ Fendley and Jimmy Bullard.
BOXXER: Liverpool sees the homecoming of former WBO world light-middleweight champion Liam ‘Beefy’ Smith (31-3-1, 18 KOs), who recently signed an exclusive promotional agreement with BOXXER. He kicks off his campaign for a second world title in a clash with heavy-handed Hassan Mwakinyo (20-2, 14 KO’s).
Clarke’s fellow Olympian Tasha Jonas – who made history for Britain and her home city of Liverpool when she became the first British female to box at the Olympics – is gunning to add the WBC world title to her collection. WBO champion Jonas (11-2-1, 8 KOs) faces Sweden’s unbeaten defending WBC world champion Patricia Berghult (15-0, 3 KOs).
BOXXER proudly presents this event in association with official partners bet365, Everlast, WOW HYDRATE and Village Hotels.
Visit Boxxer.com today for the best seats at the best prices. For media opportunities and accreditation requests, please contact the BOXXER media and PR team.
Media Workout: Teofimo Lopez Set for Takeover 2.0 Against Pedro Campa
Former lightweight king Teofimo Lopez hopes to conquer a second weight class. That journey begins Saturday against Pedro Campa in the 10-round junior welterweight main event at the Resorts World Event Center at Resorts World Las Vegas.
In the eight-round co-feature, unbeaten Puerto Rican junior middleweight standout Xander Zayas takes on Elias Espadas. Lopez-Campa and Zayas-Espadas will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
The undercard — streaming live and exclusively on ESPN+ — includes the return of Las Vegas-born junior lightweight contender Andres Cortes against the bruising Abraham Montoya. Promoted by Top Rank, tickets starting at $40 are on sale now and can be purchased at Etix.com.
Lopez, Campa, Zayas, and Cortes kicked off fight week Wednesday with a media workout at the Top Rank Gym.
Lopez (16-1, 12 KOs), whose run up the lightweight ranks included a legacy-defining victory over Vasiliy Lomachenko, went through the paces for more than 30 minutes. He hit the mitts with his father/trainer, Teofimo Lopez Sr., and even conducted an impromptu pushup session in the middle of the ring. Following last November’s split decision loss to George Kambosos Jr., he sets his sights on Campa (34-1-1, 23 KOs), an accomplished veteran who is 7-0-1 since the lone defeat on his ledger.
Teofimo Lopez vs. Pedro Campa, 10 rounds, Vacant NABF & WBO International Junior Welterweight Titles
Xander Zayas vs. Elias Espadas, 8 rounds, Vacant NABO Junior Middleweight Title
ESPN+ (6:40 p.m. ET/3:40 p.m. PT)
Jose Enrique Vivas vs. Edy Valencia, 8 rounds, featherweight
Andres Cortes vs. Abraham Montoya, 8 rounds, junior lightweight
Troy Isley vs. Victor Toney, 6 rounds, middleweight
Duke Ragan vs. D’Angelo Fuentes, 6 rounds, featherweight
Omar Rosario vs. Esteban Munoz, 6 rounds, junior welterweight
Charlie Sheehy vs. Juan Castaneda, 4 rounds, lightweight
# # #
About Resorts World Las Vegas Resorts World Las Vegas was developed by Genting Berhad, a publicly traded Malaysian corporation registered with the Nevada Gaming Commission. The company has affiliated operations in the Americas, Malaysia, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the Bahamas. In partnership with Hilton, Resorts World Las Vegas integrates three of Hilton’s premium brands into its resort campus, including Las Vegas Hilton, the resort’s full-service brand; Conrad Las Vegas, Hilton’s lifestyle luxury brand; and LXR, Hilton’s network of independent luxury properties, which operates as Crockfords Las Vegas, Genting’s internationally renowned ultra-luxury brand. Resorts World Las Vegas features 3,506 guest rooms and suites, an innovative, next-generation gaming floor, world-class food and beverage options, a 5,000-capacity theatre, distinct nightlife venues, a curated retail collection of designer and boutique shops and more. The integrated resort weaves time-honored traditions of the international Resorts World brand into the fabric of Las Vegas, introducing a bold, fresh take on hospitality to the city with stunning design, progressive technology and world-class guest service. Resorts World Las Vegas is?Sharecare Health Security VERIFIED™?with?Forbes Travel Guide,?a verification that ensures the resort has appropriate health safety procedures in place.?For?more information, visit?rwlasvegas.com?or find us on?Facebook,?LinkedIn,?Twitter?and?Instagram.
About Genting Group Genting Group comprises Genting Berhad (KLSE: GENTING), the holding company, and its listed companies Genting Malaysia Berhad (KLSE: GENM), Genting Plantations Berhad (KLSE: GENP) and Genting Singapore Limited (SGX: G13). Genting Group is involved in leisure and hospitality, power generation, oil and gas, property development, life sciences and biotechnology activities, with operations spanning across the globe, including in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, India, China, the United States of America, Bahamas and the United Kingdom. Genting Group is a leader in the global gaming and hospitality industry. Founded in 1965, Genting Group has more than 50 years of experience in developing and operating destination resorts in the Americas, Malaysia, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the Bahamas, offering an unparalleled resort experience and iconic entertainment attractions to over 50 million visitors a year. For more information, visit?www.genting.com.
GOLDEN BOY KEEPS PROMISE TO GILBERTO “ZURDO” RAMIREZ AND SECURES A LUCRATIVE DMITRY BIVOL CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
LOS ANGELES, CA (August 10, 2022):
Statement from Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Oscar De La Hoya on the WBA ratifying a mandatory fight between Dmitry Bivol and his mandatory challenger Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez:
“We find the ruling fair and honest considering Zurdo Ramirez has fought two elimination bouts and has been the number one contender for this fight since his victory against Sullivan Barrera in 2021. We will continue to work hard to support Ramirez as he campaigns to one day become a two-division world champion.”
HEAVY-HANDED SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT PROSPECT JOSEPH ADORNO TO FACE HUGO ALBERTO ROLDAN IN UPDATED SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION® MAIN EVENT FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 LIVE ON SHOWTIME®
NEW YORK – August 10, 2022 – Joseph “Blessed Hands” Adorno, a former amateur standout with one-punch knockout power, will face Hugo Alberto Roldan in a new 10-round super lightweight main event on SHOBOX: The New Generation on Friday, September 9, live on SHOWTIME at 9 p.m. ET/PT from Bally’s Atlantic City Hotel & Casino’s Grand Ballroom.
Shinard Bunch, who was originally slated to take on Argentina’s Roldan (21-0-1, 7 KOs) in the main event, was forced to withdraw for personal reasons. Adorno (16-1-2, 14 KOs), who owns two early victories over current unified super featherweight champion Shakur Stevenson in the amateurs, will fight for the fourth time this year and third-straight at super lightweight after campaigning mostly at lightweight throughout his career.
“The opportunity to fight on SHOBOX® couldn’t have come at a better time in my career,” said Adorno, who is managed by Dave McWater and promoted by Vito Mielnicki’s GH3 Promotions. “I’ve never felt stronger after moving up to 140 pounds and I’m eager to showcase my power in front of a national audience. I just fought less than three weeks ago, so I’m already in great shape, and I’m predicting another sensational knockout against Roldan, who’s never faced anyone with my power and pedigree.”
The SHOBOX co-feature matches undefeated Filipino prospect Bernard Angelo Torres (16-0, 7 KOs) against once-beaten Dominican Frency Fortunato (13-1, 10 KOs) in a 10-round featherweight attraction. The telecast opens with SHOBOXreturnee Janelson Bocachica (17-0-1, 11 KOs) taking on knockout artist Roiman Villa (24-1, 24 KOs) in an eight-round welterweight battle.
In his first bout at super lightweight, Adorno, 23, produced a highlight-reel first-round knockout of Juan Santiago in May and a second-round KO of Roberto Almazan Monreal in July. His power was on display when he dropped undefeated Jamaine Ortiz twice in April 2021 on his way to a controversial majority draw. Adorno plans to spar with Mielnicki’s son, junior middleweight prospect Vito Jr., to prepare for his bout with Roldan, who is making his U.S. debut.
“This is going to be Joey’s coming out party where he shows he’s one of the sport’s biggest punchers and talents,” said Mielnicki Sr. “Joey is going to prove he’s on a different level than Roldan. He’s focused and in a great place in his career and will put it all together in the ring on September 9.”
Born in Union City, New Jersey, Adorno returns to SHOWTIME after suffering his first loss to undefeated lightweight contender Michel Rivera via 10-round decision in the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast opener that was headlined by Tim Tszyu on March 26. Adorno turned pro in 2016 at the age of 17 after a standout amateur career where he went 178-22.
The event is promoted by Sampson Boxing.
Hall of Famer Barry Tompkins will call the action on September 9 from ringside with former world champion Raul Marquez and veteran combat sports reporter and MORNING KOMBAT host Brian Campbell serving as expert analysts with Hall of Famer Steve Farhood remotely performing unofficial scoring duties.
The executive producer of SHOBOX: The New Generation is Gordon Hall with Chuck McKean producing and Rick Phillips directing.
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, SHOBOX: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The SHOBOX philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 86 fighters who have appeared on SHOBOX and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.
Ruben Torres Opponent Announced Will Face Cristian Baez on Thompson Card August 20th in Corona, CA
CORONA, CA (August 10, 2022) – A stellar card for what should be a hot summer night is being set by Thompson Boxing this coming Saturday, August 20 in Corona, CA.
The main event will featurerising lightweight star, Ruben “Ace” Torres (18-0, 15 KOs), from South Central Los Angeles, who will put it all on the line against equally heavy-handed and knockout artist, Cristian “Guarico” Baez (18-1, 17 KOs) from San Juan de Los Morros, Venezuela. Torres vs. Baez is a 10-round bout that will headline the properly dubbed “Path To Glory” event.
Tickets priced at $50, $75, $100 & $125, will only be available for purchase at the door the day of the event, which will take place at the Omega Products International Event Center in Corona, CA. Doors open at 6:30 pm PT with the first fight starting at 8:00 pm PT.
“Sparks will fly on August 20th,” said Torres. “I’m ready to take my career to the next level and a victory against a tough opponent like Baez will help me climb up the rankings. I will like to make a statement in the ring and let the world know that I belong at the top of my weight division.”
“I’ve been waiting for a long time to get in the ring and now it’s time to showcase my talent.” said Baez from his training camp in San Jose, CA. “Torres is a good prospect, but I’m hungry and I’m going to give him all he can handle. Don’t be surprised If I knock him out.”
In what should be another ‘barn-burner,’ Corona’s own Louie Lopez (11-1-1, 4 KOs) who will be fighting in his backyard, will have his hands full against undefeated prospect Elias “Ingles” Diaz (11-0, 6 KOs) who hails from National City, Calif. Lopez vs. Diaz will serve as the co-main event bout scheduled to 8-rounds or less.
Rounding up the non-stop action with an 8-round special attraction will be a clash of Southern California undefeated lightweights, Pedro Valencia (10-0, 7 KOs) from Pacoima, Calif., will face Adrian “Bam Bam” Corona (9-0-1, 2 KO’s), from nearby Rialto, Calif.
UNDERCARD BOUTS:
Middleweight “Nuckle” Nelson Oliva (3-0, 3 KOs), of Riverside, Calif, will face experienced Carlos Gorham (16-8-1, 10 KOs) of Tamaulipas, Mexico. (6-rounds)
Super welterweight Anthony Saldivar (1-0) of Ontario, Calif. will face an opponent TBA (4-rounds)
Opening the card will be lightweight Ioannis Manouilidis (1-0) of Athens, Greece, facing Gibran Perez (0-1), of San Marcos, Calif. (4-rounds)
Beto Duran will operate as the blow-by-blow commentator with expert commentary by Doug Fischer and Rich Marotta. Jessica Rosales will serve as the onsite ringside reporter.
This event is sponsored by HUSTLER Casino, LA’s only luxury casino; Thompson Building Materials, Transforming spaces into beautiful places; Omega Products International, The leading stucco manufacturer in the United States; Belgard, Paves the way; and Makita, Rule the outdoors.
“Path To Glory” will stream live for free on the Thompson Boxing Promotions website (www.thompsonboxing.com), as well as their Facebook and
YouTube pages. In addition, Fight fans will be able to watch all Thompson
Boxing fights, weigh-ins, and behind-the-scenes content, via their new Mobile App downloadable onApple and Google.
For more information, and regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com. You can also follow the conversation on social media, please use #ThompsonBoxing.
STAR BOXING SITS DOWN WITH UNDEFEATED CRUISERWEIGHT RICHIE “POPEYE THE SAILOR MAN” RIVERA AHEAD OF HIS POTENTIAL CAREER DEFINING BOUT AGAINST TWO-TIME WORLD CHAMPION BADOU JACK
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia (August 10, 2022) — Sometimes a name just sticks. While attending Synergy Alternative High School in East Hartford, Connecticut, a young Richie Rivera was joking around with friends when they called him “Popeye” for the first time. Created in 1929, a corncob pipe and sailor hat remain the trademark of the beloved character, Popeye the Sailor Man, in his quest to protect Olive Oil from the treacherous grasps of Bluto. It wasn’t long until most of East Hartford knew Richie Rivera only as Popeye. Absorbing the name, Rivera would go on to appear in all his professional fights donning a Popeye style corncob pipe and sailor hat.
RICHIE “POPEYE THE SAILOR MAN” RIVERA (E. Harford, CT, 21-0 16KO’s) will board a flight heading east for Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where he is scheduled to fight former two-time world champion, “THE RIPPER” BADOU JACK (Las Vegas, NV, 26-3-3 16KO’s) on the undercard of the Unified World Heavyweight Championship rematch between Anthony Joshua and Oleksandr Usyk on August 20. Richie Rivera clearly understands that his fight against Badou Jack is a clear-cut life changing opportunity for the 31-year-old East Hartford native.
A victory will no doubt change the course of ‘Popeye’s” career and personal life, but to him, a victory represents even more. “This is huge,” said Rivera. I know this opportunity will catapult my career! This opportunity is giving me the chance to make a difference in my community, for my family and my personal life.”
With a victory, and the anticipated spoils that come with it, Rivera is not hoping to buy a nice car, or go on a fancy vacation, but instead the first major difference Rivera is hoping to make is in is his community. “I come from a family that loves helping and giving back. I had the opportunity to go on a missionary trip to Guatemala and Peru! I am very involved with my church and get inspired to help others because I understand that there is much going on in the world.” Knowing many little East Hartford eyes will be tuned into the fight, Rivera continued, “with my experiences, I want to show kids in Hartford that anything is possible. It sounds cliché but hard work and perseverance does pay off. Believe in your dreams and never take your foot off the gas.”
Inspiration aside, Badou Jack will be no easy task, but Rivera believes he has the edge. “I have been calling out Badou Jack for quite some time. I believe that this is the best fight for me because he is a seasoned veteran, he is a respected opponent, former world champion, and with this victory on this large of a platform, it will finally give me the respect I deserve in the ring, and the ability to show the world who I am.”
Rivera’s promoter, Star Boxing CEO JOE DEGUARDIA said: “This is an interesting fight on a big show and a huge opportunity for him. Popeye is a truly charismatic, interesting and marketable undefeated prospect. He knows that a win against a former two time world champion in Badou Jack will be a life changer for him and enable him to have an even greater positive impact on his community.”
The Badou Jack-Richard Rivera fight is promoted by Badou Jack Promotions and Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.
RICHIE RIVERA ARCHIVES:
RICHIE RIVERA vs JOE JONES
MASS MUTUAL CENTER
RICHIE RIVERA vs DYLAN DUFFUS
CATSKILLS CLASH II
DECEMBER 13, 2019
EUBANK JR VS. BENN TICKETS TO GO ON SALE THIS WEEK!
OFFICIAL WEIGH-IN
Tickets for the colossal catchweight clash between Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn at The O2 in London on Saturday October 8, shown exclusively live on DAZN around the world and on DAZN PPV in the UK and Ireland, will go on sale this week.
Eubank Jr and Benn reignite the famous family feud 30 years on from their iconic father’s second showdown at Old Trafford in a sensational second-generation showdown that is set to be one of the most electrifying British boxing contests in decades.
Tickets for Eubank Jr vs. Benn are priced at £40, £60, £80, £100, £150, £200, £300, £500, £1250 (VIP).
Undisputed World Champion Franchón Crews-Dezurn Confirmed for Sixth Annual Box Fan Expo, During Mexican Independence Day Weekend, Saturday September 17, in Las Vegas
Las Vegas (August 9, 2022) – Undisputed super middleweight world champion Franchón Crews-Dezurn has confirmed that she will appear at the Sixth Annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday, September 17, 2022, at the Las Vegas Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Expo will also coincide with the mega trilogy fight between Canelo Alvarez vs Gennady Golovkin, that will take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena.
Franchón will hold a Meet & Greet with her fans at her booth during the fan event held over the Mexican Independence Day weekend.
The Box Fan Expo is an annual fan event that coincides with some of the sports’ legendary, classic fights in Las Vegas, including Mayweather vs. Maidana II, Mayweather vs. Berto, Canelo vs. Chavez Jr., Canelo vs. GGG II, and Canelo vs. Jacobs. Centered in boxing’s longtime home – Las Vegas – this year’s Expo is a must-do for fight fans coming in for this legendary weekend, with dozens of professional fighters, promoters, and companies involved in the boxing industry. The Expo is the largest and only Boxing Fan Expo held in the United States. http://boxfanexpo.com – @BoxFanExpo
Franchón will make her second appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and memorabilia. Franchón will also have merchandise to sell for fans to enjoy. Boxing fans will also have an opportunity to take pictures with this boxing star also known as the “The Heavy Hitting Diva”.Follow Franchón Crews-Dezurn @thehhdiva
Franchón joins Marco Antonio Barrera, Rolando Romero, Jose Ramírez, David Benavidez, Shawn Porter, Jessie Vargas and Erik Morales as an early commitment to this year’s Box Fan Expo, with more Boxing stars to be announced.
About Franchón Crews-Dezurn
Franchón Crews-Dezurn is an American professional boxer who’s been competing since 2016. Franchón is the current and first ever female undisputed super middleweight world champion. She presently holds the WBC, WBA, IBF, WBO and Ring Magazine championship belts. Franchón accomplished this goal by defeating the former unified WBA and IBF title holder Elin Cederroos at Madison Square Garden on April 30, 2022. Outside of the ring, a true artist, Franchón has designed clothing and boxing apparel under her brand, The H. H. Dezearned @thehhdezearned that has been featured on HBO, Showtime, DAZN, ESPN and local shows.
About Box Fan Expo
Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet the stars of boxing that represent the past, present and future of the sport. With hosted autograph signings, meet-and-greets with current and former boxing world champions, limited edition merchandise for sale, giveaways and more, this is the ultimate event for fans of the sport.
Past boxing stars that have participated include: Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Sugar Ray Leonard, Julio Cesar Chavez, Juan Manuel Marquez, Tommy Hearns, Roy Jones Jr, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, Andre Ward, Mikey Garcia, Marcos Maidana, Devin Haney, David Benavidez, Errol Spence Jr, Sergio Martinez, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Tim Bradley, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Shawn Porter, Fernando Vargas, Abner Mares, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Vinny Paz, Mia St.John, Leo Santa Cruz, Badou Jack, Terry Norris, Riddick Bowe, Earnie Shavers, Michael & Leon Spinks, Danny Jacobs, Claressa Shields, Teofimo Lopez, Brandon Rios, Jorge Linares, and many more.
Exhibitors include boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry as a whole.
Throughout the next several weeks leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo
.
Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –
https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2022
To request information on exhibiting and sponsorship at the Expo:
For media credentials:
Contact us:
Telephone number: (702) 997-1927 or (514) 572-7222
BORN RIVALS: EUBANK JR AND BENN CLASH IN MEGA FIGHT AT THE O2 IN LONDON
OFFICIAL WEIGH-IN
An unmissable event for fight fans around the world, Eubank Jr vs. Benn promises to be one of the most electrifying British boxing contests in decades as the sons of two of the sport’s most famous names battle it out in an incredible second-generation showdown.
Eubank Snr and Benn Snr captured the nation’s imagination with their bitter rivalry during a boom era for British boxing in the early nineties. The pair laid it all on the line in front of millions on terrestrial TV, sharing two legendary battles in 1990 and 1993. Eubank Snr stopped his foe in the ninth round of their first bruising battle at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham.
It took three years for the rematch to happen which took place at a sold-out Old Trafford in Manchester. The clash for the WBC and WBO Super-Middleweight Titles ended in a draw and the pair never fought each other again. But their sons will reignite the family feud in one of the biggest fights the UK has ever seen.
Eubank Jr (32-2, 23 KOs) heads into his blockbuster bout with Benn coming off the back of an impressive shutout points win over Liam Williams at the Motorpoint Arena Cardiff in which he showed his class by knocking down the Welshman four times.
Having previously campaigned at Super-Middleweight, the 32-year-old is a former two-time IBO Super-Middleweight Champion. He captured the IBO crown with a 10th round stoppage win over Renold Quinlan in 2017, before defending the belt against German legend Arthur Abraham and Avni Yildirim.
Following a huge clash with George Groves for the WBA 168lbs World Title in February 2018 in which he was defeated on points, Eubank Jr reclaimed the IBO Title in 2019 with a spectacular performance against rival James DeGale at The O2 in London.
Returning to the Middleweight division, Eubank Jr claimed the WBA Interim Middleweight World Title for the second time with a TKO win over former World Title challenger Matvey Korobov in December 2019, while making his US debut at the Barclays Center in New York.
Benn (21-0, 14 KOs) has exploded onto the world Welterweight scene with a series of eye-catching wins that have propelled the big-hitting 25-year-old Essex native into the top five rankings with all of the recognised governing bodies.
He sent out a vicious warning to his 147lbs rivals by wiping out Samuel Vargas inside the opening round at the Copper Box Arena in April 2020, living up to his nickname as he took just 1 minute and 20 seconds to viciously halt the durable Colombian.
‘The Destroyer’ secured a stunning knockout win over former World Champion Chris Algieiri in December 2021, taking out the American with a brutal right hand in the fourth round of their top of the bill clash at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool.
Another devastating early finish followed at Manchester’s AO Arena in April as Benn demolished South Africa’s Chris van Heerden inside two rounds to send an emphatic message to the top names in the ultra-competitive 147lbs division.
Now one of the hottest properties in world boxing, Benn dares to be great by leaping up in weight to challenge himself against former Super-Middleweight World Title challenger Eubank Jr in a fight that will bring the UK to a standstill.
“I grew up watching their legendary battles and always wanting to emulate that, and find my own arch nemesis… could this now be Conor Benn? We will find out,” said Eubank Jr.
“He has walked the same path as I have. I know his struggle. Living in the shadow of a legend and trying to break out of that shadow and make his own name. If he can beat me, his name will be made, and he will never walk in his father’s shadow again.
“It’s a fight that’s going to spark the imagination of the British public, that’s what I’m happy about. In terms of anticipation, legacy and hype it’s the biggest fight of my career.”
“This fight is for the legacy and was an opportunity I felt I couldn’t pass up,” said Benn. “My team and I had other options on the table as I’m currently ranked top 5 with all governing bodies at Welterweight and no doubt I’m looking for a World Championship fight very soon, but this fight is embedded with so much history and I know it’s one the public really want to see. To me this fight is personal – it’s more than titles and rankings, this is unfinished business between our families!
“Born Rivals is the perfect calling for this fight, because we have always been associated and I’ve always been asked if we’d ever fight, and now I can’t wait for the world to be able to watch us make that happen.
“All I know is that from my side, this will be an all-out war, last man standing kind of fight. Neither will give up until the last bell rings. I won’t be looking to take this to the score cards though, this will be explosive from the off. I’m so up for this.”
“I can’t quite believe this is happening but let me tell you, it’s happening!” said Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman. “Weeks of negotiations have led to one of the biggest moments in British boxing – these two Born Rivals will do battle in an epic match up that has absolutely everything. Ever since they both turned professional, people talked about this moment and now is the time to see the historic rivalry continue. I want to thank DAZN for all their support in making this mega fight – roll on October 8!”
“Throughout 20 years of promoting boxing on the highest level, from unification fights to Heavyweight World Championship bouts all over the world, this is without doubt the most iconic fight we’ve had the pleasure of promoting, said Kalle Sauerland, Wasserman’s Head of Global Boxing. “I fell in love with boxing as a teenager growing up in London, watching the original Eubank vs. Benn saga, and it gives me a huge sense of pride to now be promoting Eubank vs. Benn decades later.
“This fight is guaranteed to be astronomical in its own right. Their surnames create a grudge match, but their skillsets make an elite-level contest between two stars moulding their own legacies. This is boxing’s own ‘Back to the Future’, and there’s not a single sports fan who doesn’t want to see this blockbuster.”
“We are thrilled to be broadcasting this mega fight in October to boxing fans around the world,” said Joseph Markowski, EVP, DAZN. “Benn and Eubank are two of the most storied names in British boxing, and in Conor and Chris you have two of the most exciting fighters around. This fight is not to be missed and we look forward to showcasing this blockbuster evening worldwide on DAZN.”Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn will collide in a colossal catchweight clash at The O2 in London on Saturday October 8, shown exclusively live on DAZN around the world and on DAZN PPV in the UK and Ireland, 30 years on from their iconic father’s second showdown at Old Trafford.