Tickets on Sale TODAY for Emanuel Navarrete vs. Eduardo Baez, Hometown Hero Giovani Santillan & Nico Ali Walsh Championship Fight Night on August 20 at Pechanga Arena San Diego
SAN DIEGO (July 7, 2022) — Tickets go on sale TODAY at 10 a.m. PT for the Aug. 20 world championship event at Pechanga Arena San Diego headlined by WBO featherweight champion Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete against Eduardo “El Gemelo” Baez.
In the co-feature, San Diego native Giovani “Gallo de Oro” Santillan looks to improve his record to 30-0 in a 10-round welterweight battle against unbeaten contender Julio Luna. Undefeated middleweight prospect Nico Ali Walsh, grandson of Muhammad Ali, will see action in a four-round rematch versus Reyes Sanchez.
Navarrete-Baez, Santillan-Luna and Ali Walsh-Sanchez 2 will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Zanfer Promotions, tickets starting at $35 can be purchased at AXS.com.
VIDEO: Derek Chisora vs Kubrat Pulev 2 Plus Undercard Workout
AUDIO: Eddie Hearn Talks Canelo – Golovkin 3
VIDEO: Eddie Hearn Talks Canelo – Golovkin 3
CALLUM WALSH’S STAR SHINES AT UFC’S INTERNATIONAL FIGHT WEEK
Los Angeles, CA (July 6, 2022) Fast-rising Irish boxing star ‘King’ Callum Walsh, took a short break from his training to travel to Las Vegas for UFC’s International Fight Week with his promoter Tom Loeffler, President of 360 Promotions.
Doing publicity for his next fight, the 21-year-old Walsh conducted multiple interviews with the international press in the media center and on radio row. Additionally, he was featured on UFC Extra Rounds podcast.
Among the UFC superstars and luminaries supporting Walsh as he sat cage side for UFC 276 were his training partner Tony Ferguson, Justin Gaethje, Chuck Liddell, BJ Penn and ring announcer Bruce Buffer. Also taking photos with Walsh were Academy Award winner Mel Gibson, baseball legend Jose Canseco and ‘SteveWillDoIt’ of the NELK Boys. Sponsored by Howler Head Whiskey, Walsh also did a wealth of media interviews with the combat sports press in attendance on Saturday night at the T-Mobile Arena.
“Callum has been embraced by the UFC fans since turning professional late last year,” said Loeffler. “We’re very thankful to the UFC Team for their continued support of Callum and look forward to another exceptional performance from him on August 4.”
The Freddie Roach trained Walsh, (3-0, 3 KOs), a native of Cork, Ireland faces his toughest test against veteran southpaw Cleotis ‘Mookie’ Pendarvis, (21-10-2, 9 KOs), in the six-round main event at the next installment of 360 Promotions’ Hollywood Fight Night series on Thursday, August 4 from The Quiet Cannon and broadcast live internationally on UFC FIGHT PASS. (Order Here > https://ufcfightpass.com/signup).
Tickets may be purchased in advance for Hollywood Fight Nights at https://hollywoodfightnights.festivalsetup.com/ . The Quiet Cannon is located at the Montebello Country Club, 901 via San Clemente, Montebello, CA 90640. Doors will open on the night of the event at 5:00 p.m. PT.
UNBEATEN LIGHTWEIGHT CONTENDER FRANK MARTIN TO FACE JACKSON MARIÑEZ ON SHOWTIME® THIS SATURDAY, JULY 9 FROM THE ALAMODOME IN SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS IN PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS EVENT
SAN ANTONIO, T.X. – July 6, 2022 – Unbeaten lightweight contender Frank Martin will face slick Dominican sharpshooter Jackson Mariñez in the 10-round telecast opener live on SHOWTIME this Saturday, July 9 from the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas in a Premier Boxing Champions event. Martin was originally scheduled to fight Ricardo Núñez, who was forced to withdraw due to visa issues.
The show is headlined by WBC Featherweight World Champion Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo taking on former world champion Rey Vargas in the main event. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see hard-hitting former world champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa battle Carlos Castro in a WBC Featherweight Title Eliminator bout in the co-main event.
Additional coverage will include a pair of bouts streamed live on the SHOWTIME SPORTS® YouTube channel beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. The action will see unbeaten welterweight contender Rashidi Ellis facing Argentine Olympian Alberto Palmetta in a 10-round duel, plus San Antonio’s own Ramon Cardenas battling Venezuela’s Michell Banquez in a 10-round bantamweight attraction.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and are available through Ticketmaster.com. The Martin vs. Mariñez bout is promoted in association with Man Down Promotions.
The 27-year-old Martin (15-0, 11 KOs) is guided by esteemed trainer Derrick James and ascended the lightweight rankings in 2021 with a pair of impressive victories before most recently delivering a New Year’s Day KO over Romero Duno. In 2021, Martin knocked out the previously unbeaten Jerry Perez in a dominating performance in April, before earning a unanimous decision over Ryan Kielczweski in August. Originally from Indianapolis, Ind., Martin now trains in the Dallas-area under the guidance of James alongside unified welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr.
A native of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Mariñez (19-2, 7 KOs) has fought professionally since 2016 and won his first 19 bouts, including four victories in 2019 that culminated with a second-round TKO of Yardley Armando Cruz in his U.S. debut. The 31-year-old’s first blemish came in a controversial decision loss to Rolando Romero in August 2020 and he most recently dropped a contest to former world champion Richard Commey in February 2021.
The non-televised undercard will feature unbeaten John Rincon (6-0, 2 KOs) in a six-round welterweight battle against Archiebald Weah (10-14, 5 KOs), the pro debut of San Antonio’s Sequiel Hernandez in a four-round featherweight duel against Joshua Montoya (2-2-2-), San Antonio-native Raymond Guajardo (5-1, 4 KOs) taking on California’s Dario Guerrero-Meneses (0-2) in a four-round middleweight bout and a four-round all-California showdown between unbeaten super bantamweight prospects Albert Gonzalez (2-0, 1 KO) and Alberto Alvarez (4-0, 3 KOs).
Rounding out the action is the pro debut of super lightweight prospect Fabian Diaz in a four-round duel against Julio Gomez, unbeaten middleweight prospect Samuel Arnold stepping in for a four-round fight taking on Antonio Hernandez and featherweight prospect Xavier Bocanegra facing Travis Crawford in a four-round attraction.
#
ABOUT MAGSAYO VS. VARGAS Magsayo vs. Vargas will see WBC Featherweight World Champion Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo take on former world champion Rey Vargas in a battle of unbeatens that headlines action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, July 9 from the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature hard-hitting former world champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa taking on Carlos Castro in a WBC Featherweight Title Eliminator bout in the co-main event, plus the Derrick James-trained, unbeaten lightweight contender Frank Martin battles the Dominican Republic’s Jackson Mariñez in the 10-round telecast opener.
Additional coverage will include a pair of bouts streamed live on the SHOWTIME SPORTS® YouTube channel beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. The action will see unbeaten welterweight contender Rashidi Ellis facing Argentine Olympian Alberto Palmetta in a 10-round duel, plus San Antonio’s own Ramon Cardenas battling Venezuela’s Michell Banquez in a 10-round bantamweight attraction.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #MagsayoVargas, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.
MARK MAGSAYO AND REY VARGAS TRAINING CAMP QUOTES
SAN ANTONIO, T.X. – July 6, 2022 – WBC Featherweight World Champion Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo and former world champion Rey Vargas previewed their upcoming battle of unbeatens before they step into the ring this Saturday, July 9 headlining live on SHOWTIME from the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas in a Premier Boxing Champions event.
In what shapes up to be another Philippines vs. Mexico classic, both fighters will be led into this matchup by Hall of Fame trainers. Magsayo trains in Southern California under the tutelage of Freddie Roach, while Vargas trains in Mexico alongside Ignacio “Nacho” Beristain. Vargas will look to return to championship glory following a successful four-year run as a 122-pound world champion, while Magsayo looks to solidify his status atop of the division after wresting the belt away from longtime champion Gary Russell Jr. in January.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and are available through Ticketmaster.com.
Here is what the fighters had to say about their matchups, training camp and more:
MARK MAGSAYO
“It was an amazing feeling to bring honor to my country by winning the world title earlier this year. But at the end of the day, I’m still the same humble guy that I’ve always been. It was very emotional returning home and seeing how proud everyone was of me.
“I’m facing a fighter who’s usually going backwards. He’s tall, so that’s always his plan. I’m hoping he doesn’t run too much in this fight. If I’m able to get to the right distance with him, I’m going to get the knockout.
“I’m prepared for anything he brings. I’ve gotten great sparring with guys who move, guys who go toe-to-toe and everything in between. It doesn’t matter how he fights, I’ll be ready for it.
“My footwork is definitely very important in this fight. Just like against Gary Russell Jr., I’m going to have to make adjustments. I’m not expecting him to mix it up with me.
“I’ve already faced the best fighter in the division, and that was Gary Russell Jr. I beat him clearly and I believe that sent a message to the rest of the division. Even before he hurt his shoulder or whatever happened, I was winning the rounds.
“I’ve learned so much at the Wild Card Gym with Freddie Roach. I’ve become a much more accurate puncher with a legendary coach like Freddie. It’s a relief to know that they have my back and will be able to get the most out of me as a fighter.
“The thing I learned from Manny Pacquiao is that discipline is the most important thing. Without that, you’re nothing in this sport. That’s what helps drive me day after day.
“There’s no ‘next Manny Pacquiao’, there’s only one Manny Pacquiao. My only goal is to make my career as great as I can. Being compared to Manny doesn’t faze me. I just want to put my own name in the history books.
“All of my opponents say they’re going to knock me out. I definitely don’t believe Vargas because I don’t see him pushing for it. Him saying that is just going to motivate me and make me better on July 9.
REY VARGAS
“I’ve been preparing well for this fight. I’m always looking to improve and step into the ring as the very best version of myself. The hard work is done, now I’m just focusing on what’s going to happen on fight night.
“My goal is to dominate this fight and bring the title back to Mexico. I fight for my Mexican people and my family, and I work hard every day to make them proud.
“’Nacho’ Beristain, along with my dad, have been with me ever since the start of my professional journey. I know Nacho just as well as he knows me. I like to say that he is an ‘old man of the sea’ with all of his life experience. He knows what type of fighter I am, and I know what type of trainer he is. He knows me to perfection after all of these years.
“I’m not overconfident, but I know how hard I worked and what I’m capable of. Magsayo will come out strong with lots of energy, but we will counter that. That’s when we’ll tear his head off.
“Mexico vs. Philippines has always been a great rivalry. It’s a guaranteed, can’t-miss show. This fight is not going to be the exception.
“The Mexican fans are spicy, hot-headed and passionate. They always come out and show their support for their fellow countrymen. They will do so once again and I’m very thankful to have their support every time I face a new challenge.”
# # #
ABOUT MAGSAYO VS. VARGAS
Magsayo vs. Vargas will see WBC Featherweight World Champion Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo take on former world champion Rey Vargas in a battle of unbeatens that headlines action live on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) on Saturday, July 9 from the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
Price Promotions Features Dylan Price vs Drew Correll for NBA World Bantamweight Title on Saturday, July 16th at Elevation Event Center in Chester, PA
CHESTER, PA (July 6, 2022)–Price Promotions LLC is excited about their 2022 debut event that is scheduled to take placed on Saturday July 16, 2022 at Elevation Event Center (51 E 9th Street in Chester Pa). The 10-round main event will be for the vacant NBA Bantamweight World Title featuring the Philadelphia native by way of Sicklerville NJ the seven-time national amateur champion, Bantamweight sensation, 5ft 4 inches, 14-0, 10ko’ Dylan “The Real Dyl” Price vs. the native of Glassboro NJ by way of Danville Virginia, 5ft 11inches, 10-2, 8kos “southpaw” Drew Correll.
Co-promoted by Dr. David Price, and his eldest daughter Chantel Price, the July 16th fight card will be the Price Promotions 2022 debut event.
Said David Price, “I’m super excited about this card on July 16th that we have deemed “New Beginnings”. We really feel that this is going to be a true event, and not just a local boxing show. We are going to bring out the cars and stars like no other boxing event seen in our area since the days of the Philadelphia classic wars featuring Bennie Briscoe, Cyclone Hart, Willie “The Worm” Monroe, Kitten Hayward, Jeff Chandler, Johnny Carter and the likes.
We are featuring a six fight card that will showcase 10 additional fighters that possess either one fight or making their professional debut. In other words 9 out of the 10 evenly matched fighters will be looking to remain undefeated, so for me that’s super exciting!
We have secured special guest rappers to rap out Dylan, two-time World Champion’s Paulie Malignaggi and Nate Campbell will be doing the commentary. We will have a star studded After Party at the event center featuring Power 99 FM radio personalities DJ Diamond Kuts and Mikey Dreads, so as a promoter I am proud of my team and their efforts, and as a fan I’m super excited”
We will continue to release our original programs of 7on7 which is a prologue to July 16 with seven weeks, seven episodes for seven minutes.
The July event will be live streamed with information to follow, and rebroadcasting on our newly developed social media, live streaming, original programming app called “PROFETS”.
GREG VENDETTI VS COURTNEY PENNINGTON
BOSTON, MA, JULY 6, 2022 – Fight announcement, Greg Vendetti vs Courtney Pennington.
Greg “The Villain” Vendetti (23-4-1, 12 KOs) returns to the ring on Saturday, July 30th, 2022. He will take on the battle tested Courtney “King-Penn” Pennington (15-5-3, 7 KOs). This 10 round Super Welterweight special attraction will take place at Mosley’s on The Charles in Dedham, MA. The event is promoted by Vertex Promotions in association with Murphy’s Boxing.
The fan favorite Vendetti, will be fighting in his home state for the first time in over three years. During that stretch, he challenged Erislandy Lara for the WBA and IBO World Championships. Vendetti lost by decision but gained valuable experience fighting against the future Hall-of-Famer. Vendetti wants to get back on the big stage, challenging for a world title on national TV. The next step on his voyage will be on July 30th.
Most boxers in Vendetti’s position would fight against easy competition while they wait to get another shot against one of the top people in their division. Vendetti chose not to go that route and will be squaring off against Courtney Pennington. Vendetti stated, “I want my fans to see a real fight and that is what they will get.” Pennington has a very creditable resume and calls himself, “The upset king, and the road warrior”. He holds victories over Boyd Melson (15-1-1), Khiary Gray (14-1), Delvin Rodriguez (29-8-4), and Steven Martinez (18-3).
Waymaker Management’s Founder/President, Artie DePinho stated, “Greg is always looking to fight the best. He understands what Courtney Pennington brings to the table and he’s prepared to take care of business. This is an opportunity for Greg’s fans to see him fight locally before he goes back on the world stage.”
Tickets and sponsorships are available through Waymaker Management by calling 617-312-5059 or contacting them on social media. Tickets can also be purchased at Broadway Boxing located at 548 Broadway, Everett. Tickets are priced at $50 for standing room and $80 for general admission seats.
ABOUT WAYMAKER MANAGEMENT
Formed in 2021, Artie DePinho’s Boston based Waymaker Management is a full service management company with a focus on professional boxing. The management team specializes in career development, contract negotiation, and public relations. Waymaker Management paves the way for boxers to recognize and achieve their full potential. Waymaker Management’s roster includes Super Welterweight World Title Challenger, Greg Vendetti 23-4-1, 12 KOs, Middleweight Contender Mark DeLuca 28-3, 16 KOs, Super Middleweight Prospect Kendrick Ball Jr. 18-1-2, 11 KOs, and Heavyweight Chad Leoncello. For more information visit our website at waymakermanagement.com or follow us on social media at www.facebook.com/WaymakerManagement and www.instagram.com/WaymakerManagement.
VIDEO: Claressa Shields vs Savannah Marshall, Mikaela Mayer vs Alycia Baumgardner | CONFERENCE CALL
CLARESSA SHIELDS VS. SAVANNAH MARSHALL MEDIA DAY QUOTES
LONDON – July 5, 2022 – Bitter rivals Claressa “GWOAT” Shields and Savannah “The Silent Assassin” Marshall went face to face and declared their intention to capture the undisputed middleweight world championship on Tuesday as they previewed their long awaited showdown during a press conference in London followed by a virtual press conference for international media.
The most anticipated women’s fight of all time will take place 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 BOXXER and Salita Promotions in association with Hennessy Sports.
Shields will look to avenge the only loss of her storied career, an amateur defeat at the hands of Marshall in 2012, which kicked off the rivalry and war of words that continues to this day.
The co-main event of this historic card is a bout presented in association with Top Rank which will see WBO and IBF world champion Mikaela Mayer and WBC champion Alycia Baumgardner face off in a unification bout in the 130-pound division.
Be first in line to get exclusive access to discounted tickets by joining the waiting list at Boxxer.com. The fight will air live and exclusively in the UK and Ireland on Sky Sports and is presented in association with official partners bet365, Everlast, WOW HYDRATE and Village Hotels.
Here is what Shields, Marshall and Salita Promotions President Dmitriy Salita had to say Tuesday:
CLARESSA SHIELDS
“It means a lot to be here. I’m grateful that the UK fans have accepted me, once again, to come out here and fight. Savannah Marshall got lucky in 2012, but she won’t get lucky in 2022. I was 17 and also London was hosting the Olympics and they favored her. I never scored eight points in any of my fights, leading up. And then with the point system, all of a sudden I score eight? I just scored 30 points the day before, as I did every other fight and then, against her, I only scored eight points versus her 14? I was 17. She couldn’t shake me. She didn’t drop me. She couldn’t even get an eight count, but now she’s a knockout puncher?
“The Olympics and the amateurs matter to you. As an amateur, you went 60-16 with zero knockouts. I was 77-1, 19 KOs. You had zero (knockouts). You can’t do anything I can do. You can sit here and talk, but you’re not going to win on September 10.
“I don’t hate nobody, but I do have a huge dislike for her. My grandma told me not to use the word hate, so I don’t use it, but I don’t like her and she’s one of my biggest haters.
“They’re making it out that she’s a big knockout puncher and she’s the only blemish on my record as an amateur and she has the recipe to beat me. My job is to show everybody in the world that she doesn’t and that I reign supreme in three different weight classes for a reason. If she was the one who was really supreme, she would be champion in three different weight classes and not me.
“She’s a slow fighter and that is going to hurt her. Also, she’s tall but doesn’t know how to fight tall. All that inside stuff isn’t going to work against me!
“We are not here, about to fight in front of 80,000, because you‘ve won one belt. I’m the champ. I’m the GWOAT. Nobody knows you. Every time I speak of you, you get bigger. After this, you’re going to have 20,000 more followers because I’m here, not because of anything you’ve done.
“I’m happy that there’s another championship fight on the card, especially the women. Me and Mikaela went to the Olympics and the world championships together, and Alicia lives not even 45 minutes from where I live, so I’m friends with her too. This is one of the biggest fights in women’s boxing. We’re fighting in front of 80,000. We have a great co-main and there will be more women added to the card.
“Salita Promotions has never failed me. When I first met Dmitriy Salita and he asked me what my goals were, I said I want to be world champ in my seventh fight. I was world champ in my fourth fight. I told him I wanted to be undisputed champ against whoever the champion was. I’m like ‘get me the best. I want to fight the best, every fight.’ And he shook his head and said ‘yes, yes yes, we’re going to make it happen’. And after I beat Christina Hammer, I told him I’m not fighting for no less than $350,000, moving forward and he made sure I got $350,000 for those fights after that. In women’s boxing back then.
“Salita Promotions has been great to be with. I just love Dmitriy so much because he’s actually a fighter. We got in the ring and sparred together. To have a promoter who knows what we put ourselves through, he’s always asking me what else he can do and what else do I need? He always makes sure he comes through for me and he comes to visit me every single camp to make sure I’m feeling good and everything. I’m happy to be part of Salita Promotions.”
SAVANNAH MARSHALL
“This fight has been a long time coming, but we are here now and on September 10, I will be the new undisputed middleweight champion of the world.
“I’m a fan of Claressa Shields. What she’s done for the sport is amazing. She’s a pioneer for the sport, but the reality is, she doesn’t beat me. The first time we fought she didn’t perform and she won’t again on September 10. That’s what it is and it kills her. It burns her inside.
“I’ve knocked out people you went 10 rounds with. I’m not just going to beat you. I’m going to hurt you and outbox you. That’s all you need to know. I’m a better fighter. I’ll have all her world titles on September 10.
“It’s amazing, not just for me and Claressa headlining, but also having an amazing fight in Mikaela and Alycia. I think their fight is a headliner on its own. Sharing the night with them two will be unbelievable.
“I win this fight through heart and my boxing brain. On September 10, I will become the champion of the world. And that will be the end of her rubbish. See you on September 10, babe.
“I believe I’m a better fighter than Claressa Shields. I’m more skilled than Claressa. I believe I’m more determined.”
DMITRIY SALITA, President of Salita Promotions
“This fight has literally been a year in the making, and for us on the team, years in the making, so I’m very happy that we’re here. Claressa is not only known as the GWOAT because she’s a two-time Olympic gold medalist, multi-time amateur boxing world champion, three-division professional world champion and a two-division undisputed world champion, but because of what she’s doing right here. She’s traveling thousands of miles away from her hometown to avenge the only loss of her career when she was 17 years old. The rivalry could have been forgotten about, but she is the GWOAT.
“The boxing fans in the UK are phenomenal. I know they will appreciate Claressa’s aim and goal to be the best and to challenge herself and to get out of her comfort zone of the United States and to come out here and avenge that only loss.
“I really believe that Claressa Shields is a generational athlete who, 20 years from now, will be mentioned along with the greatest athletes like Jackie Robinson, Muhammad Ali, Michael Jordan, Pele… the greatest athletes who transcended their sport.
“I believe the reason Savannah is here and the reason many women are getting the respect they deserve is because of the success of Claressa Shields.
“As a little kid, before women’s boxing was a business, Claressa made a choice to go to the gym and strive to be the best. As a kid, to have that dream and to accomplish it and be sitting here now, is really incredible. Claressa Shields is not only an American hero, she’s a hero for the world. She has done a lot for not only women’s sports, but women’s rights too and I am very grateful and honored to be part of this incredible journey.
“This is the buildup of a very high-level championship fight. There is such a rivalry between them for fans to get behind. This event is not only a great sporting event, it’s a great cultural event. It’s going to be a fantastic night of boxing on September 10.”
Fast rising junior welterweight Mike “Bad Man” Ohan, Jr. To headline “The Next Chapter”
QUINCY, Mass. (July 6, 2022) – Fast rising junior welterweight Mike “Bad Man” Ohan, Jr. (15-1, 9 KOs) will headline “The Next Chapter” card, presented by Granite Chin Promotions, on Saturday night, August 6, at Bridgewater Veterans Club in Bridgewater, Massachusetts.
Ohan, Jr., fighting out of nearby Holbrook (MA), faces Argentinian Jonathan “Yoni” Ariel Sosa (7-13-2, 4 KOs) in the 10-round main event. The son of former Marvin Hagler sparring partner, Mike Ohan, “Bad Man” is a former New England Welterweight Champion, who has won six fights in a row since suffering his lone loss as a professional.
“The Bridgewater Vets Club is a great venue to host local boxing,” Granite Chin president Chris Traietti said. “The goal is to make it a staple like the Roseland Ballroom was back in the ‘90s. In order to do that we have to put on action-packed fights that won’t disappoint and that’s exactly the case on August 6th. Mike Ohan is stepping into a 10-round bout against someone with a wealth of experience.”
The 6-round, co-featured event is between a pair of fighters coming off impressive victories, Swansea’s (MA) Anthony “The Gentle Savage” Andreozzi (3-2, 1 KO) and Woburn’s (MA) Julien “Black Dragon” Baptiste (4-2, 2 KOs), for the vacant Massachusetts Middleweight Championship.
Undefeated light heavyweight prospect Edet “Papito” Mkpanam (7-0, 6 KOs), fighting out of New Bedford (MA), faces veteran Texas fighter Larry “Slo Mo” Smith (13-50-2, 9 KOs) win a 6-round match. Mkpanam was a standout amateur boxer who was runner-up in the 2018 New England Golden Gloves.
A pair of promising prospects, junior middleweight Luke Iannuccilli (2-0, 2 KOs) and light heavyweight Raphael Torres (2-0, 2 KOs), will be in action in separate 4-round bouts.
“Anthony and Julien are in a crossroads bout that will have a heavy impact on the trajectory of their careers,” Traietti added. “Edet is taking on the always dangerous Larry Smith and Raphael is out to prove he is the future of the light heavyweight division in New England. The Vets Club is going to be wild on August 6th.”
Card subject to change.
Tickets are available for purchase at tickerriver.com (Search: The Next Chapter for $45.00 (standing room), $60.00 (floor seats), $80.00 (VIP stage seats) and $40.00 for a table of 4.
Doors open at 7 p.m. ET, first bout at 7:30 p.m. ET.
INFORMATION:
Facebook.com/GraniteChin
Twitter: @Granite_Chin
Edward Vazquez in Main Event This Saturday night at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia
PHILADELPHIA PA (July 5, 2022)–THIS SATURDAY NIGHT, July 9th, RDR Promotions will be back at the 2300 Arena with a huge night of boxing that will be headlined by junior lightweight Edward “Kid” Vazquez in the eight-round main event
Vazquez of Fort Worth, Texas has a record of 11-1 with three knockouts. Vazquez, 26 of Fort Worth, Texas is a six-year professional who is already battle tested as he has defeated Brandon Arvie (2-0), Brandon Cruz (6-0), Adan Ochoa (11-1) and Irvin Gonzalez (14-2). His lone blemish came in his latest outing when he was on the wrong end of a very controversial split decision to undefeated former National Golden Gloves champion Raymond Ford on February 5th in Phoenix.
The judges’ scorecards were not in agreement with the fans in the arena and the commentators on DAZN.
Seeing action in six-round bouts:
Damon Allen (16-1-1, 5 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Oscar Barajas (17-8-1, 8 KOs) of Zamora, Mexico in a lightweight fight.
Rasheen Brown (11-1, 7 KOs) of Philadelphia fights an opponent to be named in a featherweight fight.
RDR Promotions fighter, Isaiah Johnson (4-0, 4 KOs) of Sicklerville, NJ takes on veteran Rondale Hubbert (14-22-3, 8 KOs) of Duluth, Minnesota in a lightweight contest
In Four-Round Bouts:
DeAndre Pettus (6-1, 3 KOs) of Columbia, South Carolina takes on Chukka Willis (4-16, 2 KOs) of Emporia, Kansas in a super welterweight bout.
Boimah Karmah (2-0-1) of Sharon Hill, PA fights Daniel Jiles (0-1) of Philadelphia in a welterweight bout.
Famous Wilson of Deer Park, New York makes his pro debut against Vincent Randall (0-1) of Valparaiso, Indiana in a middleweight bout.
Najeem Johns of Philadelphia will make his pro debut against fellow debutant Darryl Chamberlain of Baltimore, MD in a super lightweight fight Tickets are $100, $75 and $55 and can be purchased at the following Link
KO ARTIST AMILCAR VIDAL DEFENDS WBC LATINO MIDDLEWEIGHT BELT JULY 29 IN URUGUAY
On Friday, July 29, WBC #13-ranked middleweight Amilcar “El Pety” Vidal (15-0. 12 KOs) will return to his hometown of Montevideo, Uruguay, to defend his WBC Latin Middleweight Championship for the second time against Rafaela, Santa Fe, Argentina’s Gabriel Omar “El Loco” Díaz (12-3-0, 4 KOs).
The 10-round Vidal vs. Diaz battle will headline an extraordinary international evening of professional boxing, presented, without fans in attendance, by Sampson Boxing, Tello Box, Paco Presents and Producciones Sports at Alberto Isabella’s American Box Gym in Montevideo and televised live by TyC Sports (Latin America), TV Ciudad (Uruguay) and Estrella TV (United States).
In the night’s potentially explosive 10-round co-main event, three-time world title challenger David “El Severo” Carmona (22-9-5, 9 KOs) of Mexico City and Tijuana’s Alex “El Peque” Santiago (25-3-5, 13 KOs) will meet for the Mexican Bantamweight Championship, the first time a Mexican national title has been disputed outside its lands.
For his second fight this year, the big-punching 26-year-old Vidal, who now lives in Los Angeles, is training in Uruguay. He was last seen in April of this year, making quick work of transplanted Argentinean Osmar Gustavo Dominguez Chamorro (TKO 2) in his first defense of his WBC Latino belt he won in 2019. A TV favorite in the United States, Vidal is known for his tremendous punching power in both hands.
Díaz, 25, a native of Rafaela, Santa Fe, comes to this fight after knocking out Nicolás Brito in three rounds last July. Diaz has faced several of his best domestic competition, such as Emiliano Pucheta, Jairo Rayman (whom he defeated), Wilson Sánchez, Gerardo Vergara and Alejandro Silva, among others.
In his professional career, 31-year-old Carmona has beaten quality foes such as Jesús Iribe and Belmar Preciado, and is also one of the few fighters to go the distance against the Japanese “Monster” Naoya Inoue, against whom he disputed the WBO super flyweight world title in 2016. He also fell by decision against Carlos Cuadras and fought Englishman Khalid Yafai for the WBA super flyweight title in May 2018.
Accustomed to boxing’s ups and downs, Mexican bantamweight contender Alejandro “Peque” Santiago rebounded from his nationally televised and highly controversial majority-decision loss to Gary Antonio Russell in November 2021 by taking a 10-round unanimous decision over countryman Juan Ramirez Marquez. The hard-luck Santiago has been the “victim” of several controversial draws against top fighters in high-profile fights, including one particularly dubious draw against IBF Super Flyweight Champion Jerwin Ancajas in 2018.
On the undercard, Colombian welterweight knockout artist Roiman Villa (23-1, 23 KOs) will face Venezuelan Domicio Rondón (17-5-0, 11 KOs) over 10 rounds, while unbeaten Dominican lightweight Francis Frometa (16-0, 10 KOs) will cross gloves with the tough Argentine Javier “Jhonny” Herrera (17-6-1, 8 KOs) in an eight-round fight.
Uruguayan locals, welterweight Víctor “Látigo” Rodríguez (7-0, 2 KOs) and super welterweight Joel Cano (1-0, 1 KO) will face Argentines Omar Correa (6-7-1, 2 KOs) and Juan Martin Salvia, respectively.
#
About Sampson Boxing
Sampson Boxing has promotional partners all over North and South America, Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe and Central America. Sampson Boxing events have been televised on such premiere networks as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, ESPN+, DAZN, VS., FOX, Fox Sports and several international networks. For more information, visit sampsonboxing.com.
Jeter Promotions Signs Super Bantamweight Elijah Pierce
Baltimore, MD (July 5, 2022) — Jeter Promotions is pleased to announce the signing of Super Bantamweight Elijah Pierce to an exclusive promotional contract.
Pierce, 25 years-old of Gwinnett City, Georgia by way of Midwest City, Oklahoma has a record of 14-2 with 12 knockouts. Pierce won his first seven bouts, which included wins over Candelario Rochin (4-0) and Divante Jones (9-1). Pierce has won five straight bouts which have been highlighted by wins over Jesse Garcia (10-0) and most recently over Ryizeemmion Ford (7-1) on June 17th in Cleveland.
“I am extremely excited to have signed with Jeter Promotions that will help me to continue building my legacy. We had other offers on the table, but Tony Jeter definitely won over my interest with his vision and wholehearted belief in me. I’m looking forward to working with Jeter Promotions and finally bringing a world title back home in the immediate future. This all wouldn’t be possible without God first and foremost, my daughter’s inspiration, my parents and management. I’m truly grateful,” said Pierce.
“This is a great signing for Jeter Promotions as we feel Elijah is a terrific fighter. He has already shown that he will fight and defeat top fighters at any time and anywhere. That is the stuff that world champions do, and I feel that he will be a world champion. I can’t wait to get him started with us, and continue with Elijah on his journey to being a world champion,” said Tony Jeter of Jeter Promotions.
Pierce will be back in the ring on Saturday, September 10th in Philadelphia.
Pierce is managed by Trifon Petrov and Jesse Tanksley. He is trained by his father Andy Pierce and Aaron Salamome.
September 10: Claressa Shields-Savannah Marshall & Mikaela Mayer-Alycia Baumgardner Championship Doubleheader to Stream LIVE on ESPN+
LONDON (July 5, 2022) – Two heated rivalries will come to a head Saturday, Sept. 10 in a historic championship doubleheader at the O2 Arena in London.
The previously announced main event will see two-time Olympic gold medalist Claressa Shields, the WBC/WBA/IBF/Ring Magazine middleweight champion, aim to once again become undisputed at 160 pounds by facing longtime rival and WBO titleholder Savannah Marshall.
Shields and Marshall faced off as amateurs, with Marshall edging Shields by decision at the 2012 AIBA Women’s World Championships in Qinhuangdao, China. Shields went 77-1 as an amateur and is the only female boxer to win undisputed titles in two weight classes.
In the co-feature, Mikaela Mayer will look to get one step closer to becoming the first undisputed champ in her division by putting her WBO/IBF/Ring Magazine junior lightweight titles on the line against WBC champion Alycia Baumgardner.
A total of seven world titles and two Ring Magazine belts will be on the line.
Promoted by Salita Promotions and Boxxer, in association with Top Rank, Shields-Marshall, Mayer-Baumgardner, and undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+
Mayer (17-0, 5 KOs) is a Los Angeles native who achieved international recognition when she represented the U.S. at the 2016 Rio Olympics. The following year, she signed with Top Rank and unleashed an impressive run of victories, including a one-sided decision over Ewa Brodnicka in October 2020 to capture the WBO 130-pound title. In 2021, she unified the WBO and IBF titles in an action-packed slugfest against Maiva Hamadouche, which also earned her the Ring Magazine belt. In her last outing, she retained her titles with a decisive win over former champion Jennifer Han. Mayer is confident that she will take a positive step forward toward becoming undisputed champion.
Mayer said, “I’m here to make the biggest fights possible, so I salute my team for making her an offer she couldn’t refuse. Huge thanks to Boxxer, Top Rank, Salita Promotions, ESPN and Sky Sports for working together to co-promote such an iconic event! I am ecstatic to finally be making my UK debut and to share the stage once again with my Olympic sis, Claressa Shields. I LOVE this era of women’s boxing because we are re-writing the narrative and working to give our supporters the fights they DESERVE. To date, I’ve accomplished all I said I was going to do, and this next fight will be no different. I have all the tools and experience I need. There are levels to this sport, and she’s nowhere near mine. You can bet on it.”
Baumgardner (12-1, 7 KOs) is a five-year pro who burst onto the scene by traveling to Sheffield, England, to challenge WBC champion Terri Harper. Though fighting on enemy turf in front of thousands of British fans, the native of Fremont, Ohio landed a perfectly timed counter right hand that knocked Harper out on her feet. Baumgardner then made the first defense of her crown in April with a shutout decision over former unified world champion Edith Soledad Matthysse. After months of exchanges on social media, Baumgardner did not mince her words about Mayer.
Baumgardner said, “When we are both gray and old, Mayer is still going to be having Alycia Baumgardner flashbacks. When she is lying horizontally in the ring, Mayer will think back to the first time my name left her mouth and she’s going to wish it hadn’t. I guess we’re going to find out if Regina George has a chin. Not only will Mayer feel my power, but her descendants are also going to feel what I do to her. Not only will I take Mayer’s belts, but I’ll take everything from her. She’ll be lucky if I let her keep her name. If I’m not haunting her dreams before the fight, I will be after it. If you come at the queen, you best not miss. On the bright side for Mayer, a loss to me will be the best result on her resumé.”
LIVE VIDEO: Claressa Shields vs Savannah Marshall | KICKOFF PRESS CONFERENCE
LIVE VIDEO: UFC 276: Post-Fight Press Conference
Joyce Stops Hammer in 4
WBO number-one heavyweight contender Joe Joyce stopped Christian Hammer in round four of the 12-round heavyweight bout at the OVO Arena Wembley in London, England.
In round one, Hammer was able to get through with several power shots. In round two, Hammer was cut around the right eye. At the end of round three, Joyce dropped Hammer with a left to the head. In round four, it was a left to the body that sent Hammer down. Joyce sent Hammer to a knee with a flurry of punches. Joyce ended the fight by dropping Hammer with a right to the body and the fight was called at 1:20.
Joyce, 265 lbs of London, ENG is 14-0 with 13 knockouts. Hammer, 263 lbs of Hamburg, GER is 27-10.
Tete Stops Cunningham in 4
Former world champion Zolani Tete took out Jason Cunningham in round four of their 12-round super bantamweight fight.
In round round four, Tete landed a hard left hand that sent Cunningham to the canvas. With Cunningham hurt, Tete jumped on Cunningham and dumped him on the canvas from a flurry of punches that was highlighted by a right and left to the chin, and the fight was stopped at 34 seconds.
Tete, 121.1 lbs of Eastern Cape, SA is 30-4 with 23 knockouts. Cunningham, 121.2 lbs of Doncaster, ENG is 31-7.
Chamberlain Decisions Vidal
Mark Chamberlain remained undefeated by winning a 10-round unanimous decision over Marc Vidal in a lightweight bout.
Chamberlain, 134.1 lbs of Portsmouth, ENG won by scores of 100-90 on all cards and is now 11-0. Vidal, 134.6 lbs of Spain is 13-4-5.
Fletcher Takes out Vmoga in 1
Tommy Fletcher made a successful pro debut with a first round stoppage over Aron Vmoga in a cruiserweight bout.
In round one, Fletcher dropped Vmoga with a left hand. It was long until Fletcher ended things as he landed a combination that sent Vmoga to the canvas and the fight was stopped at 58 seconds.
Fltecher, 197 lbs of Norfolk, ENG is 1-0 with one knockout. Vmoga, 193 lbs of Croatia is 1-1.
Burke Decisions Ambomo
Mickey Burke Jr. remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Serge Ambomo in a super welterweight fight.
Burke, 154.1 lbs of Becksley, ENG won by a 60-55 score and is now 7-0. Ambomo, 152.4 lbs of Sheffield, ENG is 7-32-3.
Turner Decisions Laskowski
Henry Turner remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Jakub Laskowski in a super lightweight fight.
Turner, 141.1 lbs of Glambagreen, ENG won by a 60-54 tally and is now 8-0. Laskowski, 142.2 lbs of Poland is 4-17-1.
Opetaia Decisions Briedis in war; Claims IBF Cruiserweight title
Jai Opetaia won the IBF Cruiserweight championship with a 12-round unanimous decision over longstanding champion Mairis Briedis in a entertaining war at the Gold Coast Convention Centre in Queensland, Australia.
In round one, Briedis was cut over his right eye. In round four, Opetaia landed a big uppercut that drew blood from the nose of Briedis. Opetaia dominated the action by landing hard shots and moving, not letting the champion get into any rhythm.
Seemingly way behind, Briedis landed two hard shots in round 10 that hurt Opetaia, but the hometown challenger was able to withstand the fire. In round 12, Opetaia was bleeding from the mouth. He had to hang on as he took huge shots in the final round.
Opetaia, 198.42 lbs of Queensland, AUS won by scores of 116-112 twice and 115-113 and is now 22-0. Briedis, 199.08 lbs of Riga, LA is 28-2.
Hardman Obliterates Hartas in 1st
Isaac Hardman scored a scary first-round stoppage over Beau Hartas in the opening round of the 10-round middleweight fight.
Hardman landed a devastating right to the face that sent Hartas plummeting face-first to the canvas where he laid motionless for several minutes. Hartas came-to and was able to leave the ring on his own power. The time was 2:49.
Hardman, 160 lbs of Queensland is now 13-1 with 11 knockouts. Hartas, 159 1/2 lbs of New South Wales, AUS is 6-2.
Wallace Decisions Chevalier
Conor Wallace won a 10-round split decision over world-ranked Faris Chevalier in a light heavyweight bout.
Wallace, 174 1/2 lbs of Brisbane, AUS won by scores of 98-92 twice while Chevalier won a card 96-94.
Wallace is now 9-1. Chevalier, 174 1/2 lbs of Melbourne, AUS is 13-2.
Mazoudier Decisions Camilleri
Koen Mazoudier won a 10-round split decision over Joel Camilleri in a junior middleweight fight.
Mazoudier, 152 3/4 lbs of Blacktown, AUD won by scores of 99-92, 98-92 and a third card rea 96-95 for Camilleri. Maziudier is 10-2. Camilleri, 153 1/4 lbs of Brisbane, AS 22-8-1.
This was a rematch of a November 17, 2021 bout where Mazoudier also took a split decision
Robertson stops Fernandez in 10
Taylah Robertson dominated and battered Yoselin Fernandez in the 10th and final round of their super flyweight contest.
Robertson beat up Fernandez and finally the fight was stopped at 33 seconds of round 10.
Robertson, 114 3/4 lbs of Brisbane, AUS is 6-1 with two knockouts. Fernandez, 114 lbs of Caracas, VEN 11-2.
Coolwell stops Ladrada in 4
Dana Coolwell stops Lorenz Ladrada in round four of their scheduled eight-round featherweight bout.
In round four, Coolwell landed a right uppercut that was followed by a crushing left to the body that sent Coolwell down for the count at 2:59.
Coolwell, 125 3/4 lbs of Queensland, AUS is 8-2 with six knockouts. Ladrada, 125 1/4 lbs of The Philippines is 11-3-1.
VIDEO: UFC 276: Ceremonial Weigh-In
(#7) RAFAEL DOS ANJOS AND (#10) RAFAEL FIZIEV COLLIDE AT UFC® APEX
Las Vegas – UFC® returns to UFC APEX with a must-watch lightweight contenders’ bout that will see No. 7 ranked Rafael Dos Anjos battle No. 10 Rafael Fiziev. The co-main event will feature a clash of Dana White’s Contender Series signees when Caio Borralho faces Armen Petrosyan at middleweight.
UFC FIGHT NIGHT®: DOS ANJOS vs. FIZIEV will take place Saturday, July 9 at UFC APEX in Las Vegas. All bouts will be available on ESPN and ESPN Deportes, as well as simulcast in English and Spanish on ESPN+. The main card will begin at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT. The prelims kick off at 6 p.m. ET / 3 p.m. PT.
Former champion Dos Anjos (30-13, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) returned to 155 pounds from the welterweight division with a Fight of the Night win over Paul Felder in late 2020. Throughout his UFC run, he has also delivered memorable victories over Nate Diaz and Robbie Lawler, as well as Anthony Pettis, to win the belt in 2015. Dos Anjos now aims to stop Fiziev’s momentum and continue his climb back to a lightweight title shot.
Rising contender Fiziev (11-1, fighting out of Baku, Azerbaijan by way of Phuket, Thailand) has wasted no time dazzling fans with his diverse striking arsenal. Currently riding a five-fight win streak, he holds spectacular wins over Brad Riddell, Bobby Green and Renato Moicano. Fiziev now has his sights set on finishing his first former UFC champion to crack the lightweight top 10.
Borralho (11-1 1NC, fighting out of Sao Paulo, Brazil) earned his spot on the UFC roster with victories over Aaron Jeffery and Jesse Murray on Dana White’s Contender Series last year. The Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt then made a successful UFC debut by earning a hard-fought win against Gadzhi Omargadzhiev in April. Borralho now aims to push his unbeaten streak to 12 bouts by stopping Petrosyan.
Petrosyan (7-1, fighting out of Yerevan, Armenia) impressed on Dana White’s Contender Series with a first-round KO victory over Kaloyan Kolev last October. The talented kickboxer then announced his arrival with an entertaining win against Gregory Rodrigues in February. Petrosyan now intends to become the first fighter to finish Borralho by securing another highlight-reel KO.
Additional bouts on the card include:
Douglas Silva (28-4 1NC, fighting out of Castanhal, Para, Brazil) takes on Said Nurmagomedov (15-2, fighting out of Dagestan, Russia) in an intriguing bantamweight matchup
Jamie Pickett (13-7, fighting out of Wilmington, N.C.) faces Denis Tiuliulin (10-6, fighting out of Moscow, Russia) at middleweight
A heavyweight bout sees Jared Vanderaa (12-8, fighting out of Hemet, Calif.) take on the always exciting Chase Sherman (15-10, fighting out of D’Iberville, Miss.)
Michael Johnson (21-17, fighting out of St. Louis, Mo.) battles Jamie Mullarkey (14-5, fighting out of Central Coast, Australia) in an exciting lightweight bout
No. 10 ranked flyweight contender Cynthia Calvillo (9-4-1, fighting out of San Jose, Calif.) looks to spoil the UFC 125-pound debut of No. 7 ranked strawweight contender Nina Nunes (10-7, fighting out of Weston, Fla.)
Aiemann Zahabi (8-2, fighting out of Montreal, Quebec, Canada) returns against The Ultimate Fighter season 29 winner Ricky Turcios (12-2, fighting out of Houston, Texas) in a bantamweight bout
Antonina Shevchenko (9-4, fighting out of Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan) squares off with Cortney Casey (10-9, fighting out of Glendale, Ariz.) at flyweight
Cody Brundage (7-2, fighting out of Littleton, Colo.) takes on Tresean Gore (4-1, fighting out of Lawrenceville, Ga.) in a battle of promising middleweight prospects
Kennedy Nzechukwu (9-3, fighting out of Dallas, Texas) faces Karl Roberson (9-5, fighting out of Neptune, N.J.) at light heavyweight
Rising bantamweight prospects collide when Ronnie Lawrence (8-1, fighting out of Sunrise, Fla.) meets Saidyokub Kakhramonov (9-2, fighting out of Spokane, Wash. by way of Samarkand, Uzbekistan)
Visit the UFC.com for information and content to support your UFC coverage.
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 22.3 million subscribers.
??
Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $6.99 a month (or $69.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices). It is also available as part of The Disney Bundle that gives subscribers access to Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu for $13.99/month (Hulu w/ads) or $19.99/month (Hulu w/o ads). Subscribers to Hulu + Live TV also receive ESPN+ at no additional cost.
About ESPN
ESPN, the world’s leading sports entertainment brand, features eight U.S. television networks, direct-to-consumer ESPN+, ESPN Radio, ESPN.com, endeavors on every continent around the world, and more. ESPN is 80 percent owned by ABC, Inc. (an indirect subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company) and 20 percent by Hearst.
AUDIO: “The Abrams Boxing Show” Ep 12 with Eddie Hearn and Steve Cunningham Jr.
VIDEO: “The Abrams Boxing Show” Ep 12 with Eddie Hearn and Steve Cunningham Jr.
IBF WORLD CRUISWEIGHT TITLE – BRIEDIS & OPETAIA WEIGH IN
The Ring Magazine and IBF World champion Mairis Briedis (28-1, 20 KOs) weighed comfortably inside the Cruiserweight limit ahead of his title fight this Saturday against Jai Opetaia (21-0, 17 KOs). Following his typical approach to making weight, the champion showed up in unbelievable condition as he looked upbeat and focused as he hoped for another successful defense.
Please find detailed below the official fighter weights ahead of the IBF World Cruiserweight title fight between champion Briedis, and the undefeated Opetaia on Saturday July 2.
IBF WORLD CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP MAIRIS BRIEDIS – 14st 3lb 1oz JAI OPETAIA – 14st 2lb 7oz
Cruiserweight Bout – 4 Rounds DAVID NYIKA – 14st 3lb 14oz LOUIS MARSTERS – 14st 3lb 12oz
The IBF Cruiserweight World Championship clash between Mairis Briedis and Jai Opetaia is available to watch live on FITE
WEIGHTS FROM WEMBLEY AHEAD OF OVO ARENA FIGHT NIGHT
The fighters on Saturday’s High Stakes card at the OVO Arena gathered today at Wembley for the official weigh-in before blows are traded live on BT Sport.
4 X 3 Minute Rounds International Light-heavyweight Contest Tommy Fletcher – 197 Lbs Aron Vrnoga – 193 Lbs
The Vacant IBF European Lightweight Championship 10 X 3 Minute Rounds @ 135 Lbs Mark Chamberlain – 134.11 Lbs Marc Vidal – 134.5 Lbs
The Commonwealth, IBF And Vacant WBO International super-bantamweight Championship 12 X 3 Minute Rounds @ 122 Lbs Jason Cunningham – 121.2 Lbs Zolani Tete -121.11lbs
The WBO International And WBC Silver Heavyweight Championship 12 X 3 Minute Rounds Joe Joyce – 265.9lbs Christian Hammer – 263 Lbs
‘High Stakes’ on Saturday, 2 July at the OVO Arena, live on BT Sport, sees leading heavyweight contender Joe Joyce taking on Christian Hammer for the WBO International and WBC Silver titles, along with the the highly anticipated super bantamweight collision between European champion Jason Cunningham and two-weight world champion Zolani Tete.Portsmouth’s Mark Chamberlain will fight Marc Videl with the IBF European lightweight title at stake
Wycombe super lightweight Henry Turner and Bexley welterweight Micky Burke jr will fight over six rounds, with Ashford cruiserweight Arnold Obidai having his second pro fight over four. Thetford cruiserweight Tommy Fletcher will make his professional debut in a four-round fight having recently signed to Frank Warren and Queensberry.
The last remaining tickets for ‘High Stakes’ at OVO Arena, Wembley on Saturday 2 July are on sale priced from £55 and available from AXS.com and Ticketmaster.co.uk.
FORMER WORLD CHAMPION LIAM SMITH SIGNS WITH BOXXER
London, England – 1 July 2022 – Liverpool star Liam ‘Beefy’ Smith (31-3-1, 18 KOs) aims to become a two-time world champion following the signing of a multi-fight agreement with BOXXER.
The former WBO World Super Welterweight Champion has forged a formidable reputation and is now on the cusp of challenging for his second world title under the BOXXER and Sky Sports banners.
In a career spanning almost 14-years, Smith – who hails from a famed fighting family – cleaned up the 154lb division winning British, Commonwealth, WBA Continental and WBO Intercontinental titles before capturing the WBO World title in 2015 with a seventh round stoppage of Apollo Thompson and making two defences of the crown.
He then faced pound-for-pound great Saúl ‘Canelo’ Álvarez in September 2016 and despite a brave and valiant performance that saw him get up from knockdowns in the seventh and eighth rounds he was ultimately overcome with a big body shot in the ninth.
The comeback trail saw him defeat hard Welsh rival Liam Williams in back-to-back fights to earn a shot at Jamie Munguia for the WBO 154 belt again and he became the first to take the hard-hitting Mexican the full twelve-round distance, just losing out on the scorecards.
On his return he battered renowned Midlands warrior Sam Eggington into submission in five rounds in March 2019 to win the WBC Silver belt. Although he suffered a setback in May last year in Russia against Magomed Kurbanov in a challenge for the WBO International title with a points loss.
However, this has inspired Smith to since put on two of his best career displays to show that he’s firmly back on the World title hunt. First he made a statement of intent with a brutal eighth round stoppage of Liverpool rival Anthony Fowler in their derby blockbuster last October to win the WBA International title.
He then travelled to the iconic Madison Square Garden in April this year to dominate Two-Time World Champion Jessie Vargas over twelve rounds with a powerful performance to claim the WBO Intercontinental title and show that he’s ready to face the best again.
Currently ranked in the top five in the world by the WBC, WBO and WBA, he is perfectly positioned to face one of the World Champions and is primed and ready for the opportunity.
Smith said, “I’m delighted to put pen to paper with Boxxer. I had a lot of offers but I’m glad to finally get this across the line and be back on Sky Sports. Boxxer are doing great things in the sport and making big waves and I’m happy to be part of that.
“Some of the big fights and names have excited me and I’m really looking forward to the next twelve months with my next fight to be announced shortly. I can’t wait to get back out there and challenge for a world title at 154 pounds and get everyone talking about me again.”
BOXXER CEO and Founder Ben Shalom said, “I’ve always held Liam in the highest regard in terms of his talent, boxing IQ and also resilience to keep coming back and I believe he’s now very close to realising his ambition of challenging for another world title. He’s an icon in his home city of Liverpool where he has a great following and we’re really excited to have Liam join the BOXXER stable where we have big plans for him.”
Adam Smith, Head of Boxing Development for Sky Sports, said, “Liam Smith is a great fighter, a great guy and a great signing for Boxxer and Sky Sports! We are all delighted to be working with Liam who is coming off that thrilling win over Jessie Vargas and has really big fights ahead.
“Mega matches, more world title fights and crackling action are expected for one of our most talented and experienced champions – and one of our biggest personalities! I have a soft spot for all the Smith brothers as we have virtually grown up with them. It’s brilliant having Liam and his super family support back on Sky!”
Saturday: Mairis Briedis-Jai Opetaia & Joe Joyce-Christian Hammer Main Events Highlight Boxing Marathon on ESPN+
(June 30, 2022) — Two world-class boxing events will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ this Saturday, July 2.
The action kicks off Down Under in the early morning hours (5 a.m. ET/2 a.m. PT), as IBF cruiserweight world champion Mairis Breidis defends his title against undefeated contender Jai Opetaia at Gold Coast Convention Center in Broadbeach, Australia.
The action continues from the OVO Arena Wembley in London (2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT), as undefeated heavyweight contender and 2016 Olympic silver medalist Joe Joyce defends his WBC Silver and WBO International belts in the 12-round main event against Christian Hammer.
Breidis (28-1, 20 KOs), a native of Riga, Latvia, has won five bouts since losing a razor-thin decision to Oleksandr Usyk in January 2018. The 37-year-old puncher won the IBF belt in September 2020 with a majority decision over Yuniel Dorticos, then defended it last October in Riga with a third-round TKO over Artur Mann. Opetaia (21-0, 17 KOs), a 2012 Australian Olympian from Sydney, has fought most of his career in Australia. The 26-year-old has knocked out his last three foes and is taking a major step up against Breidis.
In other streaming action from Australia:
Isaac Hardman (12-1, 10 KOs) vs. Beau Hartas (6-1, 4 KOs), 10 rounds, middleweight
Dana Coolwell (7-2, 5 KOs) vs. Lorenz Ladrada (11-2-1, 3 KOs), 8 rounds, featherweight
Faris Chevalier (13-1, 7 KOs) vs. Conor Wallace (8-1, 6 KOs), 10 rounds, light heavyweight
Joel Camilleri (22-7-1, 10 KOs) vs. Koen Mazoudier (9-2, 4 KOs), 10 rounds, junior middleweight
Joyce (13-0, 12 KOs), the WBO No. 1 contender, has taken the express route to contention since turning pro in October 2017. He knocked out former world champion Bermane Stiverne in his eighth pro fight and won a points verdict over former title challenger Bryant Jennings in his 10th outing. He came from behind to stop then-unbeaten prospect Daniel Dubois in November 2020. Last July, he knocked out longtime contender Carlos Takam in six rounds. Hammer (27-9, 17 KOs) is a 14-year pro who has fought the likes of Tyson Fury, Luis Ortiz, Alexander Povetkin, and Tony Yoka, Joyce’s Olympic nemesis.
Jason Cunningham (31-6, 7 KOs) vs. Zolani Tete (29-4, 22 KOs), 12 rounds, Cunningham’s Commonwealth and IBF International junior featherweight titles
Callum Johnson (20-1, 14 KOs) vs. Igor Mikhalkin (24-3, 11 KOs), 12 rounds, Johnson’s WBO Global and vacant WBC Silver light heavyweight titles
Mark Chamberlain (10-0, 7 KOs) vs. Marc Vidal (13-2-5, 5 KOs), 10 rounds, vacant IBF European lightweight title.
About ESPN+ ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 22.3 million subscribers. ?? Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $6.99 a month (or $69.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com, or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices). It is also available as part of The Disney Bundle that gives subscribers access to Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu for $13.99/month (Hulu w/ads) or $19.99/month (Hulu w/o ads). Subscribers to Hulu + Live TV also receive ESPN+ at no additional cost.
ADAM KOWNACKI, GARY ANTUANNE RUSSELL AND RANCES BARTHELEMY VIRTUAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES
BROOKLYN – June 30, 2022 – Polish heavyweight star and Brooklyn fan-favorite Adam Kownacki, unbeaten rising star Gary Antuanne Russell and former two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy spoke of their fighting legacies and desire to make history while previewing their respective matchups during a virtual press conference on Thursday before they enter the ring on Saturday, July 30 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center in Brooklyn in a Premier Boxing Champions event.
Kownacki will take on Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen in the 10-round co-main event, while Russell and Barthelemy will meet in a 10-round super lightweight showdown kicking off the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® tripleheader at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. The event is headlined by two-division world champion Danny “Swift” Garcia making his super welterweight debut against exciting contender Jose Benavidez Jr.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and DSG Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets are also available for purchase at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.
The 33-year-old Kownacki will return to his home arena of Barclays Center, where he has previously fought 10 times, compiling a 9-1 record in front of the area’s raucous Polish fans. Kownacki, and his longtime trainer Keith Trimble, seek an emphatic victory after back-to-back defeats and a chance to get back into contention for the heavyweight title.
For Russell, he will be fighting for the first time since the passing of his father and trainer Gary Russell Sr. last month. The highly acclaimed rising star will look to continue the legacy of his fighting family and will have his brother, former WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. in his corner for this July 30 showdown. He again steps up in competition to face Cuba’s Barthelemy, who can move closer toward his own goal of becoming Cuba’s first three-division world champion with a win.
Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday:
ADAM KOWNACKI
“This is the biggest fight of my career. I have to win to stay relevant in the heavyweight division. I’m training hard and I’m ready to win.
“Having two kids these last few years has been life changing for me, but I can’t have everything with a cherry on top. I had to make more sacrifices in my life for this training camp to make sure that I stayed focused.
“I never thought I was done after fighting Robert Helenius. My goal is just to always go out there and do my best. My first boxing goal was to win the New York Golden Gloves, and I did that in my first year. My goal, now, is to win the world title, and that’s what I’m working toward.
“I had a good 20 fights, I hit a bump in the road, but on July 30 I’m coming to get a win and then I’m back on the right track. I want to get a world title shot in the next year or two, and with my team, I know that I can get that done.
“It’s going to be a red and white arena out there to support me. It’s going to be another great night. I can’t wait to be back in Brooklyn at Barclays Center.
“The footwork is really what we’re focused on. I remember being in camp with Wladimir Klitschko and being amazed by his footwork. I worked on it a lot back then but I got a little bit away from it.
“The fans are going to get what they always see with me. It’s fireworks. I can’t wait to be back in Brooklyn. Fight night can’t come soon enough.
“For a while, I could go blow for blow and come out on top. The past couple fights didn’t end that way, so we went back to some of our basics. That’s what I have to do to take the next steps.”
GARY ANTUANNE RUSSELL
“My father cornered the market when it came to a lot of this, not just in boxing, but as a leader and a teacher. We don’t want anything he did to go in vain. We want to keep this legacy going on. He knew what he was doing with this machinery and with our legacy.
“He gave us a cerebral insight on not just the world, but boxing. We’re going to take it and run with it at this point. Life has a road that demands not just excelling, but evolution. That’s part of life. We’re going to carry this legacy and information and build off this foundation he left for us.
“As far as our training methods, nothing is different. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. We’re trying to do everything as close to usual as possible. The only difference is my dad’s voice and foul language isn’t here for inspiration. We have to work with what he left us and keep sharpening our tools.
“We have to keep going forward, period. We can’t take a step back. Because that would make all the sacrifices we’ve made and that our father made, be in vain. We can’t go backwards. As far as training, we’re busting our tails as usual. We’ll be in here in the gym on the 4th of July.
“A win on July 30 brings us closer to our family goal. We’ve been knocking at it individually, but we accomplish things as a whole, as we should. Beating an opponent of this caliber gets me closer to that family goal.
“As an individual, I just want to wipe out the division. I want all the titles. I’m a superstar, but I’m very humble. There are things that people need to know. I need to spread my wisdom and showcase my talent. I’m definitely going to flourish in my goal and the benefits that it brings. The sky is the limit for me.
“I’m delivering a showcase of excellence, fireworks and a victorious night for me, as usual. We’re keeping that train going and we’re trying to keep that knockout record unblemished.
“If you don’t come into this ring with some type of confidence, then you shouldn’t be in this profession. He should be saying things about knocking me out. But my mentality hasn’t changed. This is just another steppingstone.”
RANCES BARTHELEMY
“I want to extend my condolences to the Russell family. I know Gary and the entire family were always united and very close. I remember being in your city and seeing how close you guys were. My heart goes out to you. As far as the fight goes, I don’t see Gary’s situation as being advantageous to me. I hope that Gary can be at 100 percent so that we can give the fans a great fight.
“I have to redeem myself. I have a very bad feeling about my last fight and I’m just thankful to SHOWTIME for giving me this opportunity and allowing me to showcase my skills and to show the fans that I’m still here and that I’m ready to take what’s mine.
“I still have the hunger. I have two things in my head right now. The first one is redemption, like I said before. The second one is that I want to become the first three-division champion from Cuba. That is my obsession. I pace around the room sometimes just thinking about it and how bad I want to accomplish it. It keeps me up at night. But first, I have to focus on July 30 and stay focused on what I really, really want to accomplish.
“I’m as hungry as ever and I want to emphasize that point. I still strive for more, and I want more, and I’m still capable of so much more than what others think I am.
“I don’t see it like I’m being used as a steppingstone, but rather, I see this as an opportunity, because I can redeem the last fight that I had, which left a very, very sour taste in my mouth. I want to show that I can still be someone who can be counted on in this division to make history out there.
“I need this win to secure my history. Time is running out. I need to go in there and leave blood, sweat and tears in the ring to make sure I can achieve my dreams and my goals and everything that I want to accomplish.
“I want to continue to work on my conditioning and be ready to take on the power from a young and explosive fighter like Gary Antuanne. Our styles clash perfectly. Gary is someone who comes forward and likes to be very offensive, while I’m more of a counter-puncher. So, what they’re going to see is a kind of art inside the ring and you’re not going to want to miss it.”
KEITH TRIMBLE, Kownacki’s Trainer
“We just have to get back to working behind the jab and working on the head movement. We can’t get lackadaisical. You’re going to see better footwork, better movement and Adam working behind that jab.
“Adam truly wants to be that first Polish heavyweight world champion. He’s not just doing this for the money, he’s serious about boxing and about his legacy.
“In this sport, you’re only as good as your last fight. Everyone wants to dump on you when you take a loss, but we’re just focused on what is in front of us.”
GARY RUSSELL JR., Gary’s Brother and Trainer
“I’ve fallen right in suit as far as training. It’s something I was always doing anyway and was side by side with my father and coaching my younger brothers. It’s easier for me because of the way my father prepared me for this opportunity. We are using everything that has happened to us as fuel and are 110% prepared for whatever comes our way. We are focused and nothing is going to get in the way of what we need to accomplish.
“I got the surgery on my shoulder on April 1. I’m in recovery and I’m getting physical therapy. I don’t know when I’ll be back. We don’t know. As of now that’s all I can say. I’m focused on my younger brother and getting some good physical therapy at the same time.”
# # #
ABOUT GARCIA VS. BENAVIDEZ
Garcia vs. Benavidez will see two-division world champion and Brooklyn fan-favorite Danny “Swift” Garcia making his super welterweight debut against exciting contender Jose Benavidez Jr. in a 12-round showdown that headlines a stacked tripleheader Saturday, July 30 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center in Brooklyn in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will also see Polish star and Brooklyn’s all-action Adam Kownacki returning to the ring to take on Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen in a 10-round heavyweight attraction, while unbeaten rising star Gary Antuanne Russell faces former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy in a 10-round showdown to kick off the telecast.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #GarciaBenavidez, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing, and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.
RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS Returns July 14th to Yakima Legends Casino
LAS VEGAS (June 30, 2022) – RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS returns to the Great Northwest for the first time in more than 2 years on July 14th, headlined by former USA amateur standout Quinton Randall (9-0-1, 2 KOs), at Yakima Legends Casino in Toppenish, Washington.
All the action will be streamed live and exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT. To sign-up for UFC FIGHT PASS, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com.
“We’re excited to returning to Yakima Legends Casino,” RJJ Boxing president Lisa Veltre said. “The staff is great to work with and boxing fans there are passionate, especially about Northwest-based boxers like Andrew Murphy, who is trained by Hall of Famer Roy Jones, Jr. Headliner Quinton Randall is a rising star who is in tough against Ivan Pandzic.”
“I’m very delighted to be training Andrew Murphy,” Jones added. “It’s so good to be bringing him back to his hometown for his first title fight. It’s a small title but it’s still a title. I’m very happy to be part of his journey with him and look forward to big things from him in the future.”
The 31-year-old Randall, fighting out of Houston, is the reigning World Boxing Council (WBC) USNBC Silver champion, who faces Ivan “Cobra” Pandzic 14-1-1 (8 KOs) in the 8-round main event in a non-title fight.
Randall captured a gold medal at he prestigious 2016 USA Nationals, silver at the 2017 USA Nationals and 2017 Pan American Games, and he reached the quarterfinals of the 2017 World Championships.
In the 8-round co-feature event, local favorite Andrew Murphy will put his undefeated record on the line against Isiah Jones (9-6, 3 KOs), of Detroit, for the vacant National Boxing Association (NBA) Americas Middleweight Championship.
Washington State intra-rivals William Hernandez (8-2, 5 KOs), of Burien, and Wapato super lightweight Magarito Hernandez (2-2-1) – no relations – throwdown in an 8-round bout, while middleweights Joseph Aguilar (2-0-1, 1 KO) and Alarenz Reynolds (1-1) battle in a 4-round match to open the UFC FIGHT PASS live stream.
Fighting on the non-UFC FIGHT PASS segment of the card are welterweight Chris Johnson (7-0, 1 KO) vs. Devonte McDonald (1-1), lightweight Bryan Sanchez (1-0, 1 KO) vs. pro debuting Dyllon Cervantes, and light heavyweight Nick Mills (3-0, 2 KOs) vs. Kelton Hall (2-1, 1 KO).
Tickets are reasonably priced at $90.00, $65.00, and $45.00 and available for purchase on site at the Legends Gift Shop, or by going online to https://www.ticketmaster.com/legends-casino-event-center-tickets-toppenish/venue/123450.
Doors open at 5 p.m. PT, first fight at 6 p.m. PT, and UFC FIGHT PASS starts at 10 p.m. ET (7 p.m. PT).
ABOUT ROY JONES JR (RJJ) BOXING PROMOTIONS: Co-founded in 2013 by 10-time world champion Roy Jones, Jr. and Keith Veltre, Roy Jones, Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions is on its way to reinventing boxing. RJJ has already made a huge impact in the boxing community in a few short years. Creating exhilarating content for UFC Fight Pass, CBS Sports, Showtime, ESPN and beIN Sports in some of the finest venues across the country, RJJ has proven it is conquering the sweet science of the sport.
ABOUT UFC FIGHT PASS®: UFC FIGHT PASS® is the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. Since launching in 2013, UFC FIGHT PASS is now available in more than 200 countries and territories. UFC FIGHT PASS provides its members with unlimited access to live UFC FIGHT PASS Prelims; live mixed martial arts and combat sports from around the world; original series and historical programming; special features; behind-the-scenes content; in-depth interviews; and up-to-the minute reports on the world of combat sports. UFC FIGHT PASS subscribers also have 24/7 access to the world’s largest fight library, featuring more than 20,000 bouts from dozens of combat sports organizations, as well as every fight in UFC history. Fight fans can access UFC FIGHT PASS on personal computers, iOS and Android mobile devices, Apple TV, Xbox One, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Sony TVs with Android TV. For more information, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com.
