Devin Haney captured the Undisputed Lightweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over George Kambosos Jr. in front of over 40,000 fans at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne, Australia.
Haney dominated with his jab and occasional uppercuts. Kambosos was not able to mount any serious offense and Haney was able to keep a partisan crowd mostly silent.
Haney of Las Vegas won by scores of 118-110 and 116-112 twice.
Stephen Fulton retained the WBC/WBO Super Bantamweight titles with a 12-round unanimous decision over former unified champion Danny Roman at The Armory in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Fulton landed 218 of 603 punches. Roman was 113 of 673.
Fulton, 121.5 lbs of Philadelphia won by scores of 120-108 twice and 119-109 and is now 21-0. Roman, 121.5 lbs of Los Angeles is now 29-4-1.
“I made a hell of a statement tonight,” said Fulton, who improved to 21-0 with eight knockouts. “I prepared for this and I told y’all I was going to make it easy and fight depending on how I wake up, and I woke up feeling good.”
“There’s no excuse,” said Roman, who dropped to 29-4-1 with 10 knockouts. “I think this fight proves who the best 122-pound fighter in the division is. Fulton did that tonight. He proved it. I wish him the best and I hope he goes and achieves what I couldn’t achieve. Go become undisputed. Like I said, this fight proved who is the best in the division. Fulton was the better man tonight.”
“It was very important to control the distance tonight,” said Fulton. “Like I said before, in the last outing with Brandon Figueroa, I didn’t have the energy because I didn’t make the weight the right way. So shout out to my dietician. Any moment he had, I took it right away from him. I neutralized the threat.”
“Fulton knew how to use his distance,” said Roman. “It was hard for me to adjust to his distance because he was boxing. He came in and came out. He changed his style so it was hard for me to adjust.”
“I started walking him down because I saw that he had been slowing down,” said Fulton of the final rounds. “I feel like the more I kept boxing, the more I just got a little tired of boxing. Me trying to walk forward to him wasn’t going to happen all the time, but I definitely saw him slowing down. I wanted to stop him but I didn’t get that.”
“I started walking him down because I saw that he had been slowing down,” said Fulton of the final rounds. “I feel like the more I kept boxing, the more I just got a little tired of boxing. Me trying to walk forward to him wasn’t going to happen all the time, but I definitely saw him slowing down. I wanted to stop him but I didn’t get that.”
Morrell Stops Morrell in 4; Retains Super Middleweight Title
David Morrell retained the WBA Super Middleweight title with a four-round beatdown of Kalvin Henderson.
In round one, Henderson was cut over his left eye. Morrell landed some huge punches and had Henderson in trouble various times throughout the contest until referee Luis Pabon stopped the bout at 2:35.
Morrell, 166.5 lbs of Minneapolis, MN is now 7-0 with six knockouts. Henderson, 167.5 lbs of Fort Worth, Texas is now 15-2-1.
“I’m excited,” said Morrell. “Thank you everyone for coming out to The Armory. I’m just happy, man. I’m happy. I’m so excited every time I fight in my new home in Minnesota. I made this place my home.”
“We knew that he wanted to come out strong like he did, but we wanted to show that his punches weren’t doing anything,” said Henderson. “We were picking off most of those shots. We were trying to wear him out, and the game plan was working but he landed some shots and the referee called it.”
“I want to thank my trainer Ronnie Shields, who did an excellent job today,” said Morrell. “That’s what our game plan was, to be concentrated and if I didn’t get him by the end of the first round, I was looking to get him in the later rounds.”
“I’m a fighter at heart and I compete so when he stopped the fight, I was upset,” said Henderson. “But I understand, the referee is just doing his job.”
“It’s David Benavidez, it’s Caleb Plant, it’s Anthony Dirrell, it’s whoever wants to get in the ring with me,” said Morrell. “I’m ready for any of them.”
Joe Cordina thrilled his hometown fans by violently knocking out Kenichi Ogawa in round two to win the IBF Junior Lightweight title at The Motorpoint Arena in Cardiff, Wales.
In Round two, Cordina landed a perfect right to the jaw that splattered Ogawa on the canvas, and the fight was stopped.
Cordina, 129.6 lbs of Cardiff, WAL is now 15-0 with nine knockouts. Ogawa, 129.4 lbs of Tokyo, JAP is now 26-2-1.
Barrett Decisions Kourbanov
Zelfa Barrett won a 12-round unanimous decision over Faroukh Kourbanov in a junior lightweight bout.
Barrett Mancherster, ENG is 28-1. Kourbanov of Dison, BEL is 19-4.
Dalton Smith stops Perouene after six
Dalton Smith remained undefeated by stopping Mauro Peroune after round six of their 10-round super lightweight fight.
In round six, Smith dropped Perouene with a right hand. After round six, the fight was stopped.
Smith, 138.5 lbs of Sheffield, ENG is 11-0 with nine knockouts. Perouene, 139.4 lns of Santa Rosa, ARG is 14-6-1.
Nicolson Decisions Bouvier
Skye Nicolson remained undefeated with an eight-round decision over Gabriela Bouvier in a featherweight fight.
Nicolson, 127.3 lbs of Queensland, Australia won by an 80-72 score is now 4-0. Bouvier, 127.2 lbs of Maldonado, URA is 15-11-1.
Yafai Stops Cairns in 4
Gamal Yafai stopped Sean Cairns in round four of their eight-round super bantamweight fight.
In round four, Yafai dropped Cairns with a hard left hook to the jaw and the bout was stopped at 1:55.
Yafai, 124 lbs of Birmingham, ENG is 19-2 with 11 knockouts. Cairns 124.3 lbs of Liverpool, ENG is 8-3.
Callum French won an eight-round decision over Gadatamen Taylor in a super lightweight contest.
French, 137.25 lbs of Gateshead, ENG won by a 79-73 score and is now 3-0. Taylor, 137.5 lbs of Palma de Mallorco, SPA is 4-10-1.
Kyran Jones remained undefeated with a four-round decision over Vasif Mamedov in a middleweight fight.
In round two, Jones dropped Mamedov with a straight left.
Jones, 163.5 lbs of Hengoad, WAL won by a 40-35 score and is now 4-0. Mamedov., 164.1 lbs of Perm, RUS is 2-18-3.
Joe Morgan remained undefeated with a four-round decision over Rustem Fatkhullin in a super lightweight bout.
Morgan, 143.4 lbs of Aberdare, WAL won by a 40-35 score and is now 4-0. Fatkhullin, 144.2 lbs of UFA, RUS is 8-33.
Ben Crocker remained undefeated with a dour-round decision over Evgeni Vazem in a welterweight fight.
Cocker, 149.5 lbs of Swansea, WAL won by a 40-36 score and is now 4-0. Vazem, 151.6 lbs of Serov, RUS is 9-30
Ester Konecna spoiled the pro debut of Monique Bux by winning a four-round decision in a super middleweight bout.
Konecna, 160.3 lbs of Ostrava, CZE won by a 39-37 score and is now 2-15-1. Bux, 167.1 lbs of Cardiff, WAL is 0-1.
• George Kambosos Jr. 134.49 vs. Devin Haney 134.92
(Undisputed Lightweight World Title — 12 Rounds)
• Jason Moloney 117.6 lbs vs. Aston Palicte 117 lbs
(Moloney’s WBC Silver and Vacant WBO International Bantamweight Titles — 10 Rounds)
• Lucas Browne 261.02 lbs vs. Junior Fa 268.3 lbs
(Browne’s WBA Oceania and Vacant IBF International Heavyweight Titles — 10 Rounds)
(ESPN+, Following Main Event)
• Andrew Moloney 116.9 lbs vs. Alexander Espinoza 115.1 lbs
(Bantamweight— 8 Rounds)
• Amari Jones 159.2 lbs vs. Ankush Hooda 159.1 lbs
(Middleweight — 6 Rounds)
(ESPN+, 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT)
• Terry Nickolas 155.9 lbs vs. Lachlan Higgins 154.7 lbs
(Junior Middleweight — 6 Rounds)
• Taylah Robertson 111.6 lbs vs. Sarah Higginson 110.8 lbs
(Flyweight — 5 Rounds)
• Yoel Angeloni 146.9 lbs vs. Ken Aitken 146.3 lbs
(Welterweight — 4 Rounds)
SWING BOUTS
• Hemi Ahio 255.5 lbs vs.Christian Ndzie Tsoye 256.1 lbs
(Heavyweight — 8/6 Rounds)
• David Nyika 199.2 lbs vs. Karim Maatalla 199.8 lbs
(Cruiserweight — 6/4 Rounds)
• Isaias Sette 153 lbs vs. Luke Gersbeck 153.4 lbs
(Junior Middleweight — 4 Rounds)
16:45 BST FIRST FIGHT LIVE ON BEFORE THE BELL
4 x 2 mins International Super-Middleweight contest
MONIQUE BUX 167lbs 1oz v ESTER KONECNA 160lbs 6oz
(Cardiff, Wales) (Ostrava, Czech Republic)
followed by
4 x 3 mins International Welterweight contest
BEN CROCKER 149lbs 8oz v EVGENII VAZEM 151lbs 9oz
(Swansea, Wales) (Serov, Russia)
followed by
4 x 3 mins International Super-Lightweight contest
JOE MORGAN 143lbs 7oz v RUSTEM FATKHULLIN 144lbs 3oz
(Aberdare, Wales) (Ufa, Russia)
followed by
4 x 3 mins International Middleweight contest
KYRAN JONES 163lbs 8oz v VASIF MAMEDOV 164lbs 2oz
(Hengoed, Wales) (Perm, Russia)
followed by
8 x 3 mins International Super-Lightweight contest
CALUM FRENCH 137lbs 4oz v GADATAMEN TAYLOR 137lbs 8oz
(Gateshead, England) (Palma de Mallorco, Spain)
followed by
19:00 BST LIVE ON DAZN
8 x 3 mins Super-Bantamweight contest
GAMAL YAFAI 124lbs v SEAN CAIRNS 124lbs 5oz
(Birmingham, England) (Liverpool, England)
followed by
8 x 2 mins International Featherweight contest
SKYE NICOLSON 127lbs 5oz v GABRIELA BOUVIER 127lbs 3oz
(Queensland, Australia) (Maldonado, Uruguay)
followed by
10 x 3 mins WBC International Silver Super-Lightweight Title
DALTON SMITH 139lbs 8oz v MAURO PEROUENE 139lbs 6oz
(Sheffield, England) (Santa Rosa, Argentina)
followed by
12 x 3 mins European Super-Featherweight Title
FAROUKH KOURBANOV 129lbs 1oz v ZELFA BARRETT 129lbs 9oz
(Dison, Belgium) (Manchester, England)
followed by
12 x 3 mins IBF Super-Featherweight World Title
KENICHI OGAWA 129lbs 5oz v JOE CORDINA 129lbs 9oz
(Tokyo, Japan) (Cardiff, Wales)
MINNEAPOLIS, MN (June 3, 2022) – Las Vegas’ Demler “DJ” Zamora (8-0, 7 KOs), will be in a six-round featherweight fight against Raul Chirino (19-14, 12 KOs), as part of the off-television undercard of this weekend’s super-bantamweight unification clash between current unified champion Stephen Fulton Jr. and former unified champion Danny Roman, taking place, this Saturday, June 4th, on SHOWTIME beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
“I am working my way up on these big cards,” said Zamora, the 19-year-old sensation about his upcoming bout. “I’m eager to have an explosive performance and earn my spot on the televised portion very shortly. I want to thank my team for getting me on such a high-profile card so early on in my career, and now I am just looking to constantly grow and get better. I know I have what it takes to be something special in this sport, but now I must show the world and get people talking. My goal for this fight is to get a win that gets people excited about seeing me fight”
Zamora will face Chirino, who has faced Luis Alberto Lopez, Omar Juarez, and Brandon Figueroa, amongst others and is a step-up in competition bout.
“I am excited to compare myself to other great fighters who have fought Chirino,” continued Zamora. “I know that I have to continue being humble, and work hard, but to see how I stack up against top contenders and world champions with a comparable opponent is a good feeling that has me excited. I am excited to be in Minnesota fighting under the bright lights, and big banners, on a world title card. I worked my whole life for moments like this, and now I’m going to show the world who I am.”
OBREGON, Sonora, México (June 3, 2022) – Undefeated Luis “Koreano” Torres (16-0, 10 KOs) won the inaugural “World Cup Boxing Series (WCBS) 4-Man Lightweight Tournament” championship final in last night’s RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS ® main event, as well as capture the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) Latino lightweight title, at Palenque de la Expo in Obregón Sonora, México.
All the action – presented by Roy Jones Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions, De La O Promotions and WCBS — was streamed live and exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. To sign up for UFC FIGHT PASS, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com.
The 20-year-old Torres, who fought in his hometown, was in his eighth RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS show. In an entertaining match, pre-tournament favorite Torres arguably faced the toughest opponent of his young career to date in Andrade, who defeated 29-1-2 Jorge Lara by 8-round split decision in 2020. Andrade also went the complete 10-round distance last year with both present World Boxing Organization (WBO) No. 1 junior lightweight contender Archie Sharp and 17-0 Bryan Acosta
Torres results 2.jpg
Torres (R) rocked Andrade
Torres took early control, winning the first seven rounds on one of the judges’ scorecards, 6 of 7 on another, and he cruised to victory from there. The former WBC Youth Silver lightweight champion is clearly a fighter to watch as he prepares to break into the world rankings and possibly challenge one of the top guys in the absolutely loaded 135-pound division in the not-too-distant future.
In the co-featured event, Bryan “Zama” Zamarripa (11-1, 3 KOs) edged previously unbeaten Yair Marmolejo Rojas (7-1-2, 5 KOs) by way of an 8-round majority decision in an evenly matched bout.
The development of 19-year-old undefeated lightweight Marco Cota Moreno (7-0, 5 KOs) continues to be impressive. Moreno, who was a decorated amateur boxer, stopped Juan Leonel “La Vitola” Ortega Resendez (4-3-1, 2 KOs) in the third round. Hot prospect Moreno had a 146-4 amateur record, including 5 Sonora State Championships. Sonora is a hotbed of Mexican boxing having produced the likes of Julio Cesar Chavez and so many other greats. Moreno may be the next great fighter from Sonora.
In the RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS opener, Pedro Penunuri Borgaro (3-0, 1 KO) floored Hector Avila Lozano (1-1, 1 KO) in the first round, which proved to be the difference as Borgaro won a 4-round unanimous decision by scores of 39-36, 38-37 twice.
Complete results below:
OFFICIAL RESULTS
MAIN EVENT – WCBS “4-MAN LIGHTWEIGHT TOURNAMENT” – CHAMPIONSHIP FINAL
VACANT WBC LATINO LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
Luis Torres (16-0, 10 KOs), Cuidad Obregón, Sonora, México
WDEC10 (99-91, 97-73, 97-93)
Diego Andrade (14-7-2, 1 KO), Victoria Durango, Durango, México
(Torres won the WCBS 4-Man Lightweight Tournament and vacant WBC Latino champion)
CO-FEATURE – LIGHTWEIGHTS
Brayan Zamarripa (11-1, 3 KOs), Ensenada, Baja California, México
WDEC8 (76-74, 76-74, 75-75)
Yasir Marmolijo Rojas (7-1-2, 5 KOs), León, Guanajuato, México
LIGHTWEIGHTS
Marco Cota Moreno (7-0, 5 KOs), Empalme, Sonora, México
WTKO3 (0:57)
Juan Leonel Ortego Resendez (4-3-1, 2 KOs), Mexicali, Baja California, México
JUNIOR LIGHTWEIGHTS
Pedro Peñuñuri Borgaro (3-0, 1 KO), Ciudad Obregón, Sonora, México
WDEC4 (39-36, 38-37, 38-37)
Héctor Ávila Lozano (1-1, 1 KO), El Fuerte, Sinaloa, México
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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.
WBC & WBO 122-Pound Unified World Championship – 12 Rounds
Stephen Fulton Jr. – 121 ½ lbs.
Danny Roman – 121 ½ lbs.
Referee: Mark Nelson; Judges: Mike Fitzgerald (Wis.), Patrick Morley (Ill.), Nathan Palmer (Ind.)
WBA Super Middleweight Title – 12 Rounds
David Morrell – 166 ½ lbs.
Kalvin Henderson – 167 ½ lbs.
Referee: Luis Pabon; Judges: David Iacobucci (Texas), Mark Nelson (Minn.), Pasquale Procopio (Canada)
The telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT from The Armory in Minneapolis and starts with a replay of Gervonta Davis’ sensational stoppage of Rolando Romero last Saturday night. ALL ACCESS: DAVIS VS. ROMERO Epilogue will premiere immediately following the conclusion of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING.
Versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo will host SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® and handle blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion Abner Mares. Noted combat sports authority and SHOBOX® analyst Brian Campbell will serve as the ringside reporter while two more Hall of Famers round out the most decorated telecast team in the sport: Boxing historian Steve Farhood as unofficial scorer and world-renowned Jimmy Lennon Jr. as the ring announcer. The executive producer is four-time Emmy® award winner David Dinkins, Jr. and the director is Chuck McKean. Sportscaster Alejandro Luna will call the action with former junior middleweight world champion and SHOBOX analyst Raúl “El Diamante” Marquez serving as expert analyst in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP).
# # #
ABOUT FULTON VS. ROMAN
Fulton vs. Roman will see unified WBC and WBO Super Bantamweight World Champion Stephen Fulton Jr. battle former unified champion Danny Roman in a matchup between two of the sport’s most consistently crowd-pleasing fighters headlining action live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, June 4 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from The Armory in Minneapolis.
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature WBA Super Middleweight Champion and Minneapolis fan-favorite David Morrell taking on Kalvin Henderson in the co-main event and the replay of Gervonta “Tank” Davis’ sensational stoppage of Rolando “Rolly” Romero last Saturday night in Brooklyn, N.Y.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #FultonRoman, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.
| LONDON, JUNE 3 – Jason Mallia predicts “one hell of a fight” between Devin Haney and George Kambosos Jnr having sparred the American in the build-up.
Australian welterweight Mallia was called into the Haney camp last month to help the WBC lightweight champion prepare for his undisputed showdown with Kambosos on June 5 in Melbourne. The 27-year-old, unbeaten in three fights as a professional, says Haney was “sharp”, carried a “super-fast” jab and was exceptionally accurate. Mallia impressed Haney and his team over two spars – “they liked the fact I made him think” – and though he wants countryman Kambosos to win, he has first-hand experience of the sizeable task that awaits. “He’s got a super-fast jab,” Mallia said. “I carry myself on reading punches very well, but he’s got a super-fast jab. His cornerman was calling it the ‘million dollar jab’. “He’s lightning fast, and he picks his shots very well.” HANEY’S HEATERS, HYPE TEAM AND HUMILITY – READ MALLIA’S FULL INTERVIEW “Devin Haney is very sharp; he picks his shots very well. When he throws three shots, two of them land, he’s very accurate, he’s pinpoint,” he added. “Being an Aussie boy, I’d love to see the Australian win but having this experience of sparring Devin, I just believe it’s going to be one hell of a fight and regardless of who wins, it’s going to be fantastic for boxing.” Mallia scored a first round KO win in early May and had yet to return to full training when he got the surprise call to spar Haney. But an “opportunity like this” was too good to turn down and the five-time national amateur champion quickly ditched all other plans. “These guys were the ultimate professionals, and when I walked into the gym, he was sitting in the ring getting a massage from his masseuse,” said Mallia. “But he is a very, very humble guy, he welcomed me with open arms. He came out to me straightaway, and we had a good chat and then we warmed up and I got asked to do five rounds. “I did well and post sparring, he got out of the ring and told me that he wanted me to do some more spars while he was down here. I was very humbled to get the opportunity to work with Devin, he is world class and for me to get called back it was reassuring to know that I could mix it with some of the top dogs.” To keep up to date with the latest news on Mallia’s next fight, sign up to our newsletter?or follow Probellum on?Instagram,?Twitter?and?Facebook.??? |
| 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 has already held back-to-back world championship nights in Dubai, as well as a packed card in Newcastle. The world title action then headed to Liverpool last month where Paul Butler won the WBO bantamweight crown. Probellum’s elite stable of fighters also includes Nonito Donaire, Regis Prograis, Estelle Mossely, Sunny Edwards, Eimantas Stanionis, Donnie Nietes and Dina Thorslund. But the company has also recruited the next generation of stars with Peter McGrail, Mark Dickinson and Pat and Luke McCormack, Shabaz Masoud and Spencer Wilcox among the young talents under the Probellum umbrella. Since launching, Probellum has signed co-promotional partnerships with some of the biggest promoters globally, including DiBella Entertainment (US), Wasserman (Germany), Universum (Germany), GYM (Canada), Maravilla Box (Spain), Team Ellis (Australia), Titov Boxing Promotions (Russia), Volcano Boxing (El Salvador), BXSTRS Promotions (Mexico), PR Best (Puerto Rico) Glozier Boxing (New Zealand), Box Office Sports (Ghana) and LNK Boxing (Latvia).???? |
LAS VEGAS, NV (June 3, 2022) – After spending a decade at super welterweight where he captured two world titles, Erislandy Lara (29-3-3, 17 KOs), who is now the WBA regular world champion at middleweight, is looking to fight all champions in the division.
Being one of the best fighters in the middleweight division, Lara is eager to get a big fight after back-to-back knockouts wins in his last two fights. Last Saturday, on the “Tank” Davis vs Rolly Romero PPV card, Lara stopped Gary “Spike” O’Sullivan (31-5, 21 KOs), and before that he knocked out Thomas LaManna (31-5, 13 KOs) with a devastating overhand left in round one.
“I want to fight both Charlo brothers, either one, as well as I would love to welcome Danny Garcia to his new weight class at some form of a catchweight,” said Lara. “If Keith Thurman wants to fight the best, I am very open to doing a catchweight bout with him too. Errol Spence and Gennady Golovkin are two names I would love to fight as well. I know I am one of the best fighters in the world. I want to fight someone people consider is a legend and beat them.”
Since moving up to middleweight, Lara is on a two-fight knockout streak, and has transformed from a boxing puncher to an inside power puncher, and amazing revolution to say the least. Lara credits to his new coach, Ismael Salas.
“With my new coach, I am learning how to fight on the inside more, I am hitting harder than ever, and I am more dangerous than ever,” said Lara about his recent training methods with coach Ismael Salas. “I am capable of boxing when I need to, but I’m also able to back fighters up, which is something most people might not think of when they think of my fighting style. I am the most complete fighter at middleweight right now and am open to any-and-all challenges.”
LOS ANGELES, CA (June 3, 2022): The 12-round lightweight clash between undefeated, lightweight superstar Ryan Garcia (22-0, 18KOs) of Victorville, CA, and former two-time world champion Javier “El Abejon” Fortuna (37-3-1, 26 KOs) of La Romana, DR will take place in Downtown Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena on Saturday, July 16. Fighting in Southern California for most of his career, this will be the first time Garcia has fought in Downtown Los Angeles since 2017. The fight, originally scheduled to take place in 2021, has become a grudge match between Garcia and Fortuna and will be streamed live worldwide, exclusively on DAZN.
Tickets for Garcia vs. Fortuna go on sale Tuesday, June 7th at 10:00 a. m. PT and are priced at $500, $300, $200, $100, $75, and $50 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase online at AXS.com, CryptoArena.com and GoldenBoyPromotions.com.
“I am so excited to be fighting at the world famous Crypto.com Arena on July 16th,” said Ryan Garcia. “Let’s turn LA upside down.”
“We are excited to welcome Golden Boy and this marquee fight between Ryan Garcia and Javier Fortuna to downtown Los Angeles and Crypto.com Arena on Saturday, July 16th,” Lee Zeidman, President, Crypto.com Arena.
Crypto.com Arena has undoubtedly developed an unrivaled reputation for excellence having established itself as one of the world’s busiest and most successful venues in the world. As the home of four professional sports franchises – the NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers and LA Clippers, the NHL’s LA Kings and the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks – Crypto.com Arena has proven to be a home court advantage for the local teams. The AEG owned and operated arena continues to distinguish itself as the host of major, high-profile events of national and international distinction including the 2004, 2011 & 2018 NBA All-Star Games, 2002 & 2017 NHL All-Star Game, 2000 Democratic National Convention, 2009 World Figure Skating Championships and 19 of the last 22 GRAMMY Awards shows. The past twenty-two years have also been marked with performances and special events that brought international stature to the downtown Los Angeles venue including concerts Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Prince, U2, Paul McCartney, Garth Brooks, Usher, Jay-Z, Kanye West, Keith Urban, Roger Waters, Britney Spears, Katy Perry, Ed Sheeran, Kendrick Lamar, Michael Bublé, Carrie Underwood and Justin Timberlake, as well as world championship boxing, family shows and special events. Hosting over 250 events a year, the arena’s reputation for world-class amenities, features and commitment to quality of service and the guest experience is second to none.
Garcia vs. Fortuna is a 12-round lightweight fight presented by Golden Boy in association with Sampson Boxing. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Saturday, July 16 at the Crypto.com Arena and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN.
For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #GarciaFortuna.
MELBOURNE, Australia (June 3, 2022) — Most of the trash talk is over. It is nearly time. WBO/IBF/WBA lightweight champion George Kambosos Jr. (20-0, 10 KOs) and WBC champion Devin Haney (27-0, 15 KOs) are two days away from their showdown for the undisputed title at Marvel Stadium. The fight, Sunday local time and airing Saturday evening in the United States, is one of the biggest bouts ever on Australian soil.
More than 40,000 fans are expected, as the 23-year-old Haney attempts to make history more than 8,000 miles from home. Kambosos, from Sydney, Australia, is back home and attempting to score his second straight upset following last November’s title-winning thriller over Teofimo Lopez.
In the 10-round co-feature, Australian two-time bantamweight title challenger Jason “Mayhem” Moloney will battle Filipino standout Aston Palicte. The ESPN-televised opener will be a 10-round battle of big men between New Zealand-born heavyweight Junior Fa and Australian Lucas Browne. Kambosos-Haney, Moloney-Palicte and Fa-Browne will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.Undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+ (7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT).
At Thursday’s press conference, this is what the fighters had to say.
George Kambosos Jr.
“It has been a long, hard journey. Everyone knows that, but I’m ready for Sunday. All the tough moments have gotten me ready for Sunday, and I will shock the world again. Underdog? Beautiful. We are ready.”
“I’ve been through it all, so whatever comes to the table on Sunday, we’ll be ready. We’ll be fully prepared. We are warriors. Whatever way we have to go, we are prepared.”
On the mental warfare against Haney
“I’m just having fun. I’m enjoying the moment. I’m just talking the truth. If it has or hasn’t affected him, so be it. We’ll step in there on Sunday, and that’s where it matters.”
“I have visualized victory by any means. I have manifested everything, every part of this journey. They said that we would never be here, but only two people really believed it, me and my father. So, I manifested my victory, and I visualize victory by any means on Sunday.”
“I love the underdog status. They’ve been against me my whole career. They’ve been saying that my whole career. I’m still the top dog, and after Sunday, I’ll remain the top dog.”
Devin Haney
“This is the biggest stage, but this is something that I have dreamed of. I knew that one day I would be here, but I didn’t think that it would come this early, but I’m thankful. It’s time.”
“I knew that he would try anything that he can to try to throw me off my game or get me unfocused. But he can say what he wants to say, because regardless I’m going to do what I do when we step into the ring. I will come out victorious by any means.”
“A win would be very satisfying because that means I did it against all odds, even when things weren’t working in my favor. They were trying to do anything they can to put me at a disadvantage. But when I come out on top, it’s going to be that much sweeter. I look forward to bringing the belts back and showing my dad what we accomplished together.”
“I feel like I’m the far better fighter. I have far more skills than him. I will show him on Sunday. It’s for me to show in the ring. The betting odds really don’t matter because I will show you no matter what they say. I’m levels above him.”
Bob Arum
“This should be a terrific match. These two young men are at the top of their game. They each have a lot of pride. George Kambosos beat Teofimo Lopez, a fight he was not expected to win based on the so-called experts, but he won that fight and won all of these belts. Devin Haney is one of our bright young fighters in the United States who has attracted a lot of attention and always gives a great performance. Both guys are undefeated. This is what boxing is all about, and it should be a terrific match.”
Lou DiBella
“George Kambosos holds most of the titles. He’s earned this. He beat Teofimo Lopez. He’s taken every challenge put in front of him. At times, he’s fought in front of nobody. He’s traveled the world and has fought on other people’s territory time after time in order to get the opportunity to be the undisputed champion. And now he’ll have the opportunity to gather every belt if he can beat Devin Haney.”
“Devin Haney is a warrior and a guy who wants those belts. He is willing to take a challenge and willing to get on an airplane and go halfway around the world, even without this dad, because he understands the importance of this moment and what this opportunity means.”
Jason Moloney
“This is a massive opportunity for me. A win over him will get me another opportunity to fight for a world title. I’m just so excited, and I’m so grateful to be a part of this show. Being a part of his event has been tremendous, and it just gives me more hunger. It gives me more determination to collect those belts and to one day headline shows myself at Marvel Stadium. This is a must-win fight for me if I want to achieve my dreams and become Australia’s next world champion. I’ve worked extremely hard, and I’m ready to get the job done.”
Aston Palicte
“I’m so happy and excited to be a part of Kambosos vs. Haney. Kambosos was my running mate for Manny Pacquiao’s last fight in Las Vegas. Thank you to Team Moloney for choosing me. I’ve trained hard for this fight. Moloney is a good fighter, and I’m a good fighter, too. This is a good fight.”
Junior Fa
“Your next fight is always your biggest fight. This is basically where I’m at, and it’s such a huge stage. I’m sitting here and there are belts all over the place. And it’s all really, really cool. But I’m pretty sure that our fight is for a belt, too, and I noticed Lucas didn’t bring his belt. Hopefully, he doesn’t forget it on Sunday because I’ve made room for it in my baggage for the way back home.”
Lucas Browne
“I’m 43 years old. I’ve got three or four more fights to go. I want to solidify my career, and I want to take good fights. I don’t want to take a fight where I’m just there to roll someone over. Junior Fa and Joseph Parker have been on the radar for many years. Obviously, it’s a good little rivalry between Australia and New Zealand. So, for me, it makes sense that I fight Junior now.”
Saturday, June 4ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT)
George Kambosos Jr. (WBO/WBA/IBF Champion) vs. Devin Haney (WBC Champion), 12 rounds, Undisputed Lightweight World Title
Jason Moloney vs. Aston Palicte, 10 rounds, Moloney’s WBC Silver and Vacant WBO International Bantamweight Titles
Junior Fa vs. Lucas Browne, 10 rounds, Browne’s WBA Oceania Heavyweight Title
SWING BOUT:Hemi Ahio vs. Christian Ndzie Tsoye, 8/6 rounds, heavyweight
SWING BOUT:David Nyika vs. Karim Maatalla, 6/4 rounds, cruiserweight
ESPN+ (AFTER MAIN EVENT)
Amari Jones vs. Ankush Hooda, 6 rounds, middleweight
Andrew Moloney vs. Alexander Espinoza, 8 rounds, bantamweight ESPN+ (7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT)
Terry Nickolas vs. Lachlan Higgins, 6 rounds, middleweight
Taylah Robertson vs. Sarah Higginson, 5 rounds, flyweight
Yoel Angeloni vs. Ken Aitken, 4 rounds, welterweight
SWING BOUT: Luke Gersbeck vs. Isaias Sette, 4 rounds, junior middleweight
MINNEAPOLIS – June 2, 2022 – Unified WBC and WBO 122-pound world champion Stephen Fulton Jr. and former unified champion Danny Roman went face to face for the first time Thursday at the final press conference before they meet in the SHOWTIME main event this Saturday, June 4 from The Armory in Minneapolis in a Premier Boxing Champions event.
The press conference also featured WBA Super Middleweight Champion and Minneapolis fan-favorite David Morrell Jr. and Kalvin Henderson previewing their co-main event showdown on the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. Kicking off the telecast will be the premiere of Gervonta Davis’ sensational stoppage of Rolando Romero last Saturday night as he defended his WBA Lightweight Title in front of a star-studded, sold-out crowd that included celebrities across the entertainment and sporting gamut.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Warriors Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased at the Armory at http://ArmoryMN.com/ and through Ticketmaster. The Fulton vs. Roman fight is promoted in association with Thompson Boxing.
Philadelphia’s Fulton will look for another signature victory on Saturday, after unifying super bantamweight titles last November by winning a close decision over Brandon Figueroa in one of 2021’s best fights. He will be opposed by Los Angeles’ Roman, who can regain his unified status in the division in a matchup built to deliver fireworks.
Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:
STEPHEN FULTON JR.
“I’ve been recognized more since unifying the titles and it feels great to be able to take pictures with my fans.
“It meant everything to me to unify the belts because I said I wanted to do that. When I won my first title in early 2021 and then unified later in the year, that was an amazing feeling because I’ve been through some things leading up to that fight. Not just my camp, but home. So there was a lot going on with me. But mentally I was there and I stuck through it and unified and now I’m here.
“The last four fighters I faced were undefeated, so I’m used to this road. I always step up to the occasion. I always show up when I get to these stages. My whole life has been like that. Right now I am living in the moment. I haven’t been looking past anything. We’re living for today. So when Saturday comes, I’m going to live for it and have fun and I’m going to enjoy it. I’m going to enjoy defeating him.
“It feels good to be in the position and be the hunted. It feels good to be in this position because I’ve called him out when he had his titles and they didn’t look my direction. But then when they didn’t have the titles they looked my direction because I had it. Now I’m giving him the opportunity that he didn’t give me.
“You’ve all seen I can fight on the inside, I can fight on the outside. I can fight whichever way I want. So how I wake up Saturday morning is going to determine how I fight Saturday night. I can do whatever I want. I don’t have one style to me.
“He’s lost three times, and maybe one draw. There’s four ways to get to him. There’s no way to get to me yet. There’s no one who’s figured that out.
“I’m more focused. I’m hungry. It’s gonna be a good fight. Just be there. I’m going to have fun. I’m going to have a ball in that ring. I feel like when I took it serious earlier in my career, I wasn’t having any fun. Now I’m taking the risk. That’s why I picked him and chose him.”
DANNY ROMAN
“This is the biggest opportunity of my life and we’re here to take advantage of it. I’ve had obstacles too. When I lost my titles to MJ, [Murodjon Akhmadaliev] there were politics involved. But that’s boxing and now I’m focused on who’s in front of me now and that’s Stephen Fulton. I’m not overlooking my opponent.
“It’s been a year since I last fought, and I’m paying attention to that. This opportunity doesn’t come around twice so I know what I have to do to get that ‘W.’ I’ve been in his position before and you don’t want to lose those belts. I was a unified champion too. So I know what it takes. He’s going to try and look his best, and I’m going to go in there and give everything I have to get him.
“This fight will be like a chess game and whoever can make the right adjustments will win the fight.
“We’re going to have fun. I expect a great fight. He’s giving his best, I’m giving my best.
“It means everything to represent my Mexican-American culture. We’re just another step away toward making history just like the great Mexican fighters. It means a lot.
“We’re here to win, and we’re going to win.”
DAVID MORRELL JR.
“I came here from Cuba in 2019 and I’m so happy that I was able to follow the guidance of Luis DeCubas Sr. and be embraced so much by the state of Minnesota. It has allowed me to pursue my dreams and be at a high level in my career as a fighter in Minneapolis. Every fight that I have here at The Armory becomes more meaningful. The support of the people here means absolutely everything to me.
“I’m glad that Henderson has the confidence that he thinks he’s going to win. I appreciate that. But it’s a shame that he’s going to go home with a loss. I’m happy that he’s confident like that because we’re going to put on a great show. But at the same time, when he says that he’s going to come and win, that’s not going to happen.
“Me and my team are totally focused on Henderson on Saturday night. After, if you want me to talk about David Benavidez, I know I can fight against Benavidez because I have the courage that’s necessary to fight against somebody like Benavidez. I have the guts. I’m a champion and I know I can do it.
“This fight is all about opening more doors for me. In more than one way. First of all, this is my first time fighting on SHOWTIME. I won’t take that for granted. I know that if I perform well on this stage, doors will open for me with SHOWTIME and with my career. Winning this fight is going to allow me to fulfil the projects and the fights that I want to have later on in my career and later on this year.
“My prediction for Saturday is that I will be happy. I don’t have time for pain. I’m too happy right now. My little brother asked me for a knockout between rounds one and five, and I guess I’ll have to come through for him. That’s my prediction.”
KALVIN HENDERSON
“This is a huge opportunity. I have a huge chance to come in here and try to dethrone the champ. I just want you guys to know that we’re not here to say, ‘We’re here for the experience.’ Or just to say, ‘We got an opportunity to fight for the title.’ We’re here to fight and we’re here to win.
“All of the pressure is off of me. Everybody’s expecting me to come in here and lose and lay down. The pressure is on the champ. We’re in his hometown in America. Everybody is expecting him to do great things, so I just have to go in there and show out and do what I do best.
“He’s supposed to feel that he’s going to win. He’s the champ. He’s 6-0 with five KOs. He’s already fought in Minnesota a few times. He’s supposed to feel that way. And I feel the same way too. So we’re going to see on Saturday night.
“I don’t think he’s overlooking me. I think he’s taking this fight very seriously and he’s trained very seriously for this fight. But so did I. In the past, I’ve also messed up my opponents’ future plans for fights after that. That’s what we’re going to do on Saturday. Mess up all his future plans.
“I ain’t worried about the crowd being pro-Morrell. It’s not my first time doing this and skills travel. My prediction for this fight is pain.”
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ABOUT FULTON VS. ROMAN
Fulton vs. Roman will see unified WBC and WBO Super Bantamweight World Champion Stephen Fulton Jr. battle former unified champion Danny Roman in a matchup between two of the sport’s most consistently crowd-pleasing fighters headlining action live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, June 4 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from The Armory in Minneapolis.
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature WBA Super Middleweight Champion and Minneapolis fan-favorite David Morrell Jr. taking on Kalvin Henderson in the co-main event.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #FultonRoman, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.
New York, NY (June 2, 2022)-Undefeated junior middleweight contender Charles Conwell will take on fight Abraham Juarez Ramirez tonight at the Montreal Casino in Montreal, Canada.
Conwell of Cleveland, Ohio is managed by Split-T Management and has a record of 16-0 with 12 knockouts.
The 24 year-old Conwell is the USBA Junior Middleweight champion, and is considered one of the top young fighters in the sport.
The five-year veteran who was a member of the 2016 United States Olympic team, has wins over Roque Zepeda (4-1-3), Travis Scott (19-3), Courtney Pennington (12-3-3), Wendy Toussaint (12-0), Madiyar Ashkeyev (14-0), and his last bout when he stopped Juan Carlos Rubio (18-0) in three rounds on August 29th in Cleveland,
Ramirez of Mexico City is 19-9 with eight knockouts. The 25 year-old is an eight-year veteran, and has quality wins over Alejandro Meneses (8-2), Ricardo Salas Rodriguez (7-0), Jesus Arriega (2-0), Jorge Garcia Perez (17-1). Ramirez is coming off a loss to undefeated Evan Sanchez on February 19th in Tijuana, Mexico.
Conwell is promoted by Probellum and DiBella Entertainment.
Last Wednesday, Split-T Management’s Dalis Kaleipou remained undefeated with a second round stoppage over Cezly Collard at The Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California.
With the win, the 23 year-old native of Waianae, Hawaii is now 3-0 with three knockouts.
Kaleipou is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions.
The very next night in Dearborn, Michigan, Split-T’s Joseph Hicks (2-0, 2 KOs) remained undefeated with a second round stoppage over Bruno Leonardo Lomay in a scheduled six-round bout.
The 28 year-old Hicks took out Romay, who came in with a record of 21-9.
Hicks is promoted by Salita Promotions.
NEW YORK – June 2, 2022 – Gervonta Davis’ sensational stoppage of Rolando Romero last Saturday night in front of a star-studded, sold-out crowd that included celebrities across the entertainment and sporting gamutwill premiere this Saturday, June 4 as part of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING featuring unified WBC and WBO 122-pound World Champion Stephen Fulton Jr. taking on former unified champion Danny Roman live on SHOWTIME® from the Armory in Minneapolis, Minn., in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
The telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with the Davis vs. Romero and will also feature WBA Super Middleweight Champion and Minneapolis fan-favorite David Morrell Jr. facing Kalvin Henderson in the co-main event.
Davis’ stunning sixth-round stoppage of Romero in Brooklyn to retain his WBA Lightweight Title was a box office success – the highest-grossing and most-attended combat sports event in the arena’s history, including all mixed martial arts and wrestling events, with 18,970 in attendance for the spectacle on Memorial Day Weekend. The event was also one of the most attended events in arena history for any occasion, ranking in the top-five biggest, representing the return of big-time boxing to the arena.
ALL ACCESS: DAVIS VS. ROMERO Epilogue will also premiere Saturday, June 4 following the conclusion of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING. Episode One of the Emmy® Award-winning series premiered on Saturday, May 21 and is currently available to watch on the SHOWTIME SPORTS® YouTube Channel.
Among the glitterati that attended Davis vs. Romero on May 28 were Madonna, comedians Tracy Morgan and Katt Williams, Giants Hall of Famer and Super Bowl XLII Champion Michael Strahan, Carolina Panthers receiver Robbie Anderson, NBA Hall of Famer Tracy McGrady, Yankees relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman; Brooklyn Nets players Nic Claxton, David Duke Jr., and Kessler Edwards, rapper and actor Bow Wow, unified welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr., lightweight contender Ryan Garcia, and more.
Many other luminaries commented on social media throughout the event, their comments reaching a crescendo following Davis’ one-punch knockout: Kevin Durant, Odell Beckham Jr., Ja Morant, Chad Johnson, Rosie Perez, Lamar Jackson, Robbie Anderson, Charles Woodson, A.J. Green, Karl-Anthony Towns, Kendrick Perkins, Ryan Garcia, Shakur Stevenson, Zab Judah, and more all weighed in.
SHOWTIME SPORTS is in the midst of a torrid six-week stretch of six consecutive telecasts in May and June that started on May 14 with a Fight of the Year candidate between Jermell Charlo and Brian Castaño for the Undisputed 154-pound World Championship . The grudge-match between Davis and Romero followed another scintillating performance by David Benavidez against David Lemieux the week prior. Now, the undefeated and unified world champion Fulton will take on former unified champion Roman this Saturday in another can’t-miss matchup for the fourth-straight week of non-stop action.
# # #
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #DavisRomero and #FultonRoman, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing
Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman:
“Good afternoon everyone and welcome to the Cardiff City Hall on Jubilee weekend ahead of a huge night of World Championship boxing at the Cardiff Arena. Joe Cordina in his hometown gets a chance to become the 13th World Champion from Wales, live on DAZN, against the outstanding World Champion Kenichi Ogawa from Japan. We’ve got European Title action and some of the world’s leading prospects on the card here, local talent as well. There’s so much to discuss with you ahead of a great return to this city. It’s been a while since we’ve been in this room and this great city and I’m excited. It’s been a long time since Cardiff have had the opportunity to see what could be a huge star emerge as Joe Cordina gets his golden opportunity live on DAZN around the world.”
Monique Bux:
“I’m really excited to be here, massive shout out to Eddie and Matchroom, and obviously Lee Eaton for getting me on the card. It’s in my home city so it’s like a dream debut. I’m happy to be here and obviously I’m getting ready to perform. I’m ready and I can’t wait to put on a show. Shout out to my trainer Tony Borg. It’s been a journey but I’m ready to showcase my skills. Big up Joey as well, he’s going to perform amazingly on Saturday night.”
Ben Crocker:
“Yeah definitely. Same thing. Big thanks to Eddie and Matchroom for giving me this opportunity. Also big thanks to my coach Gary Lockett for giving me this opportunity. It’s a big show in Cardiff. I’m from Swansea but it’s only down the road. I’m going to bring an army of Swansea fans and I can’t wait for it.
Kyran Jones:
It’s a massive opportunity for myself in only my fourth professional fight. I’d like to thank yourself, Eddie, and Matchroom Boxing, and my coach Gary Lockett for always pushing for these opportunities. I’d like to thank the main man himself, Joe Cordina, for bringing big time boxing back to Cardiff. I’ve got 200 people coming down from the Valleys on Saturday so it’s going to be loud. Massive thanks to all of them – I’m looking forward to it.”
Joe Morgan:
“I just want to say a big thank you to you Eddie for getting me this opportunity. It’s nice to get the opportunity to box locally in front of an army of Welsh fans. I’m excited to put on a show in front of everyone coming. I could say the same for all of the other boys. It’s a massive opportunity for all of us.”
Calum French:
“Thank you Eddie, Matchroom and DAZN for getting me on another terrific card. It’s a step up to 8 rounds. I’m prepared for it. I’m ready. I prepare for every fight like it’s a World Title fight just to make sure that I’m the best Calum French that gets in the ring on the night. I do it to get myself in the right habits and rituals, so when it’s my time to headline a show like Joe is doing, up in my hometown in Newcastle I’m going to be in the right frame of mind for it. I boxed at 135 in the amateurs and then because that weight was taken away out of the Olympic system, I was forced to move up to 140. Coming into the pros we’re going to bring it back down to 135 and campaign there, and shoot for titles later this year and early next year.”
Gamal Yafai:
“It’s been a while. I’ve been itching to get back in there. I want to get a win and crack on with my career. I’ll get the win on Saturday night and I can move on, get back up to European level and move on from there. You’ve got to win them all no matter who it is. If he’s from Liverpool, Argentina or Mexico, I’ve just got to win. It doesn’t matter if it’s a domestic dust up or if it’s an international fight. You’ve just got to get the W and crack on.”
Sean Cairns:
“I was ready to box on the 11th of June anyway, so it was perfect timing really. It’s all fallen into place perfectly. Thanks to Eddie and Matchroom for the opportunity and my coaches who have kept me on my toes all year. I’m going to put on a show on Saturday. I can just go out and do my best and upset the applecart. I’m not here to turn myself over, I’m here to win. We’ll see on Saturday Eddie, thanks for asking me.”
Skye Nicolson:
“The plan was always to have a really active start and Matchroom has definitely delivered. I’m very grateful for that. I’m excited for the step up. I’m not afraid of a challenge. I hope she brings a challenge for me. I want to have a real fight and I want to be in a real fight. Like I’ve said from the start, I think that’s when you’re going to see the best version of me. I feel like we’re making great improvements every time we fight. Having these back to back fights and having that time with Eddie in the gym has been perfect for me. We’re seeing those improvements and adapting to the pro style. I think we’re going to see the same again in this fight.”
Gabriela Bouvier:
“Well firstly thank you very much for the invite to be here Eddie. It’s a privilege to be here and I’m very happy to take on Skye in this bout. As you know I’ve had quite a lengthy career, both as an amateur and a pro and I’m hoping that this weekend is going to be an opportunity to show that I’ve got it.”
Dalton Smith:
“Like you say, we’ve had a three-and-a-half-week camp for this fight but that’s just what happens when you stay in the gym. You live the life and you’re able to get straight back out. That’s what I want. I want to stay active. We were looking towards the British but thank you for the opportunity and for getting me on the card. I’m on the big stage again and it’s another chance to show what Dalton Smith is about. When a fighter is active, that’s when they’re learning and improving. That’s what it’s all about. I’m moving forwards now on the big stage. It’s one thing for me being at a press conference and having Joe Calzaghe here. Growing up with my dad coaching me and seeing what Joe and his dad Enzo achieved in the sport, I feel privileged for him to be at one of my press conferences. I want to grab a picture with him because it’s been 20 years I’ve been waiting for that! I feel privileged to be on the show, supporting Joe as he becomes the next Welsh World Champion. It’s a big opportunity and you’re going to be seeing a lot more from me.”
Mauro Perouene:
“Thank you very much for the invitation. I know I’m up against a very formidable opponent, he’s a very tough lad and it’s well known. I’m full of energy myself for this fight and I’ll be putting on a good spectacle for all.”
Zelfa Barrett:
“I’m out to put on a performance. Respect to Faroukh as the champion. I’ve watched him but I just believe in my abilities and anything he can do I can do better than him. I’ve got more of a purpose on Saturday night. Listen, two men could be in against me on that day, I don’t care who’s in with me – I’m going to put on a performance. Of course I want Joe to win in the main event, for his family, and it’ll work out for a better fight for us. We cans et our families up from there hopefully if he gives me the opportunity. I want him to win but my main focus is Faroukh. Once I’ve got past him I’ll be watching the main event ringside.”
Faroukh Kourbanov:
“Thank you very much for the invitation. I’m delighted to be here as the defending European Champion and I’m sure when Saturday comes I’ll be able to take that step forward towards the World Title. I’m came out of that fight 2nd with Joe Cordina two years ago but it gave me a lot of opportunities to improve my game. He’s got a shot at the World Title and all the best to him.”
Joe Cordina:
“First of all, I want to say thank you to Eddie, Matchroom and DAZN. Also, thanks to Ogawa for accepting this fight and coming to Cardiff. I put pressure on myself, I don’t see it that way, other people might see it that way. I believe in my ability. I know I’m at world level. I’ve said it time and time again; I’m not bothered about any other title in between a World Title. All I want is a World Title. If I lose, which I don’t plan on doing, I’m 30 now and it’s a long way to build back up. For me this is my opportunity and I’m going to grab it with both hands. I can touch it. I’ve just got to grab it off him. This is my time and it’s an opportunity for me to showcase my talent in front of the world and announce myself on the big stage. On paper he’s a level above. When you look at Ogawa’s record, don’t get me wrong he’s had a lot of knockouts, you look at those early fights, I think even leading up to his 18th fight he was fighting people that I was fighting in my third or fourth fights – similar records. On paper he’s a level above but I’m going to have to step up and show I’m at that world level. I’ve sparred plenty of World Champions and I’ve been in with some tough guys – we’ve got Conor Benn at the back who’s arguably one of the most explosive punchers and fighters on the planet right now. I’ve done numerous rounds with him, and he can tell you I’m technically good and I’m tough. I’ve also got a great boxing brain and that’s one of my strengths. I can think my way around the right and get that win on Saturday night.”
Kenichi Ogawa:
“First I’d like to thank Matchroom, DAZN and Teiken Promotions, and everyone who made this fight possible. He says he’s going to knock me out in our fight, we will find out on Saturday. It will be interesting to see what happens. I plan to be very aggressive in the ring and have an exciting match but at the end of the day it’s up to Joe and how he wants to come out.”
LAS VEGAS, NV (June 2, 2022) – A few days have passed, and Rolando Romero (14-1, 12 KOs) has reflected on his fight in which he lost to Gervonta “Tank” Davis (27-0, 25 KOs), in front of a record-setting crowd at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.
“I lost to the better man that night, I felt was doing a good job backing him up with my jab,” said Romero when reflecting on the fight. “I was winning the fight and I made a mistake and got caught. I will work hard to get back to the top with the goal to become a champion. Much respect to Tank and I wish him well. The Rolly show must go on.”
Romero, who many discounted going into this bout, proved that he is one of the top lightweights in the world, and despite being listed as an underdog by the oddsmakers, never appeared to be outclassed by one of the best fighters in the world until the knockout punch landed.
Romero has made it clear that he is already back in the gym and wants the very best competition that is available. Whether it is Ryan Garcia, Devin Haney, or George Kambosos Jr., Romero is interested in pursuing fights with all the top fighters in the division.
After being a part of such a massive event, it is clear Romero is one of the biggest stars in the division, as well as one of the best fighters in the division, as he eagerly awaits a fight date for later this year for the Rolly show to continue.
“I’ll be ready to get back in the ring as soon as my name is called,” said Romero in closing. “I know I got what it takes to be a world champion, and sooner then later, I will accomplish that goal. I made a name for myself and now I can get those big fights with all the top fighters in the division. Haney, Garcia, Kambosos, I want to fight them all. At some point, I will want my rematch with Tank, but I know I’ll have to work my back to that position.”
LAS VEGAS, NV (June 2, 2022) – Super bantamweight prospect, Darren
“The Gift” Cunningham (15-2, 8 KOs), will return to his hometown of St. Louis, Missouri, for the first time as a professional boxer on June 11, 2022, at the Ambassador Club. Cunningham will battle Diuhl Olguin (15-23-3, 10 KOs), in a scheduled 8-round bout, as a part of a card promoted by Showout Boxing Promotions and DC3 Promotions.
“I had a setback in my last fight, and I must get my career back on track and put on an amazing performance for my fans back home in St. Louis,” said Cunningham reflecting on his startling loss in his last fight that occurred when Cunningham fought while sick. “I wasn’t at the top of my game, but now I am. I have the city behind me and a talented opponent that I am facing who is a game veteran that has beaten good fighters. I think Olguin is the toughest opponent I will have faced yet.”
Not too long ago Olguin pulled off an upset win over David Navarro, the 2020 Olympic alternate in the featherweight division. Olguin has stayed very active and even picked up a high-profile draw against Anthony Chavez on a Triller card
“My opponent is tough, and I feel like if he had a promoter earlier on his career people would view him as a contender,” continued Cunningham. “My back is against the wall at this stage of my career and I’m going to everything possible to end this fight early.”
Tickets for this event are almost sold out, proving Cunningham can bring his hometown fans out for a great night of boxing.
“I am jumping back in the ring against a tough opponent and looking to entertain my local fans,” Cunningham concluded. “They mean everything to me, and this is going to be a celebration, on top of the best performance of my career.”
QUINCY, Mass. (June 2, 2022) – Undefeated Holyoke (MA) welterweight prospect Denzel “Double Impact” Whitley (8-0, 6 KOs) continues his career progression June 25th, when he headlines a show for the first time, “Road 2 Stardom”, at Sheraton Hotel in Framingham.
“Road 2 Stardom”, presented by Granite Chin Promotions, is the first day-night professional boxing doubleheader in Massachusetts history. Boxing fans will be available to watch both shows via live stream at BXNGTV.COM for only $24.99.
The 26-year-old Whitley, who is trained by former pro boxers, his father Derrick and uncle Darren Whitley, takes Brazilian Maycon Oller Da Silva (1-4, 1 KO) on the evening’s portion of the event in the 6-round main event.
“I’m really excited,” Denzel talked about headlining a show for the first time. “It’s an achievement of mine. I was in the co-feature my last four fights. This tells me I’m on the right track. I’m the top guy on this show. I’ll be a little nervous but that’s natural before a fight. I’m comfortable now doing what I need to win, flowing smoothly and adapting faster. My ring presence has improved, and I won’t hesitate to showcase my skills to show my skills are better.
“I have my foot in the door (headlining for first time). Everything’s slowing, no complaints. I’m going to be stepping up the level of competition. This is my last fight at 6 rounds. I’m fully focused on this fight to win impressively in front of my fans. And there will be more fans there for me this show because headlining for the first time has caused a buzz.”
Whitley will be opposed by a fighter, Oller Da Silva, who he’s familiar with because he Oller lost a 6-round unanimous decision this past April 29th to Whitley’s brother, Derrick Whitley, Jr..
“I was supposed to fight him (Oller) before,” Whitley explained. “He just fought my brother. He got to fight him and now I have a chance to fight him. If I get a knockout, great, but at the end of the day, I won’t be looking for a knockout. It’ll be a good night if I do. I know this show is about me. I won’t lose focus. This is my job!”
“With Denzel,” Granite Chin president Chris Traietti commented, “we are taking a steady pace to get him on the national level. This will be his last 6-round fight and we plan to up his competition to 8 and 10-round fights that are coming. He was kept busy, so he is staying sharp, and the increase in competition shouldn’t be an issue. I am excited for what’s to come.”
Another undefeated fighter, Pittsfield (MA) super middleweight Steve Sumpter (5-0, 5 KOs), will headline the day card in an 8-round match versus Manny “Shake Em’ Up” Woods (17-16-1, 6 KOs).
Massachusetts intra-state rivals Nathan Balakin (3-1, 1 KO), of Tyngsboro, and Attleboro’s Bryan Urday (2-1) are matched in the 6-round co-featured event for the vacant Massachusetts Welterweight Championship. Balakin vs. Urday has the makings of the Fight of the Night.
Undefeated Floridian welterweight Josniel “TG” Castro (8-0, 6 KOs), who has New England ties and supporters, returns to continue his march toward the top against Bryan Goldsby (5-16) in a 6-rounder.
In another 6-round bout, Woburn (MA) junior lightweight Julien “Black Dragon” Baptiste (3-2, 2 KOs) attempts to get back on the winning track in a rematch against Alfred “Keenan” Raymond (1-2), of Warwick (RI), who won their first encounter last November by way of a 4-round split decision.
Promising Springfield (MA) super middleweight prospect Laurent Humes (5-0, 5 KOs) puts his undefeated record on the line against cagey veteran Larry “Slo Mo” Smith (13-50-2, 9 KOs) in a 6-round fight.
Undefeated welterweight Nicholas “Saint Nick” Molina (9-0, 3 KOs), of Lowell (MA), faces upset-minded Argentinian Jose “El Chino” Aubel (8-10, 7 KOs) in a 6-round match,
Brockton welterweight David Ribeiro, a 2020 New England Golden Gloves champion, is scheduled to make his delayed pro debut in a 4-round bout versus Rakim Johnson (6-17-1, 5 KOs). Ribeiro was originally slated to make his debut May 7,, but his opponent pulled out of their fight at the last moment.
Providence junior middleweight Rob “The Golden Child” Nolette (1-1, 1 KO) meets DeWayne Wisdom (7-61, 3 KOs) in a 4-rounder to open the night’s action.
Sumpters Time
Pittsfield’s undefeated Sumpter brothers, super middleweight Steve (5-0, 5 KOs) and heavyweight Quinton (4-0, 4 KOs), will be showcased on the afternoon card.
Steve headlines in his first scheduled 8-rounder against Florida veteran Manny “Shake Em’ Up” Woods (17-6-1, 6 KOs), while Quinton is matched against Boston’s Tracey “The Titan” Johnson (4-10-6), whose brother is world champion Demetrius Andrade, in a 6-round fight.
Local favorite Raphael Torres (1-0, 1 KO), fighting out of nearby Marlboro (MA), faces Brazilian cruiserweight Igor Pessoa (0-2) in the 4-round co-featured event.
Other 4-round fights during the afternoon session include Dracut (MA) lightweight Gabriel “Menace” Morales (3-0, 2 KOs) vs. Issac Haynes (0-1), Swansea (MA) junior middleweight Anthony “The Gentle Savage” Andreozzi (2-2, 1 KO) vs. Rynell Griffin (8-52-2, 2 KOs), New York cruiserweights Scott “Bombz” Lampert (2-5, 2 KOs) vs. Andrew Nolan (0-4), Methuen junior middleweight Luke Iannuccilli (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Robert Bricks (0-10), and Florida light heavyweight Carlos Arredondo (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. Michael Medeiros (0-1).
Both cards are subject to change.
Separate admission tickets are available for purchase at tickerriver.com (Search: Road2Stardom): day – $45.00 (general admission), $60.00 (ringside) and $750.00 for a table of 10; night – $50.00 (general admission), $75.00 (ringside) and $1,000 for a table of 10.
Doors open at 1:00 pm ET and 7 p.m. ET, respectively, with first bouts at 1:30 p.m. ET and 7:30 p.m. ET.
INFORMATION:
Facebook.com/GraniteChin
Twitter: @Granite_Chin
| Ricky Hatton, the 43-year-old former Light-Welterweight champion, has been overseeing the development of Birkenhead’s undefeated Chloe Watson (2-0) as she prepares for her upcoming fight against Fara El Bousairi (5-2, 1 KO). The bout will be a homecoming for Watson as she performs in front of her home city, and a free-to-air audience live on Channel 5.
In other sporting contexts you’ll seldom find Manchester and Liverpool as a match made in heaven. Hatton and Watson have broken that taboo and are both singing from the same hymn sheet as she continues to progress at a rapid rate, much to the delight of her coach. “She’s improving all the time. It’s a pleasure to come to work every day with a talent such as Chloe, and she’s getting better all the time,” he said. “The most exciting thing as a coach working with her is that I don’t think we’ve even scraped the surface yet. You could see from day one that she had the talent with the amateur pedigree that she had, but she’s transformed that talent right into the pro game.” There’s a great amount of excitement that surrounds a fighter performing in their home city, and Hatton is no stranger to the pressures and privileges of fighting in your own back yard. Having proudly boasted a 48-fight career, 17 of these have been in Manchester. Liverpool has the possibility of birthing a new star in 22-year-old Watson and using her home city as a fortress is a prospect that Hatton likes the sound. Not only will the roar of the crowd spur her on, but it will also be an opportunity to add more to her ever-growing fanbase. “It’s very important, I hope she has more fights on a regular basis in her hometown. Wasserman are doing a fantastic job with her anyway, but I always felt that fighting regularly in your hometown helps that fan base,” he said. “Chloe has an exceptional fan base through what she has done as an amateur, and what she’s done in the early stages of her pro career. That fan base has got quite healthy suddenly, straight away, and I think once she has a few fights in her hometown she’ll go through the roof.” The momentum that Watson has already gathered reflects the strong performances that have kicked off her early professional career. This Liverpool homecoming is arguably coming at the perfect time, as she prepares to put on a big performance having taken to professional boxing so naturally. “The talent she has was obviously there to work with, and to be honest with you, when she first came down to the gym she had a bit of a professional boxing style already. She was good on her feet, very rhythmic, good movement, and her judging of distance was there,” said Hatton. “Now she’s holding her feet a little bit more, coming back with two and three attacks and getting leverage and power in her shots. She’s added more to her game, sitting down on her punches, changing the angles and stuff like that; and that will just improve more and more as time goes by.” With progression comes a step up in competition, and Spain’s Fara El Bousairi certainly meets the criteria. A fighter that the Watson camp have studied thoroughly throughout the camp, and remain fully aware of her strong record and potential threats. Hatton remains keen to maintain a steady pace during the rise of his fighter however, and feels no need for any immediate rush to propel Watson to the top. This fight is a necessary challenge for her still, and it is a fight that they would not have accepted without having complete faith in the Liverpool fighter doing the business. “This opponent has got a winning record, she’s very, very capable. I don’t think I’d have stepped her up if I didn’t think she was ready for it,” said Hatton. “I think the way she’s handled the first few fights has shown what ability she’s got. I think the hardest thing will be for us to hold Chloe back because I think she’s going to race through the rankings the way she’s been developing in the gym, and how she’s transferring that from the gym into her fights. “I think she’s going to shine again, and I think the most important thing is she keeps shining and keeps shining. I know I’ve picked this one but it’s also my job, and Team Wasserman’s job as we’re all one team, that even though she’s improving like she is we don’t necessarily need to floor it at this stage.” Heavyweights collide as Nathan Gorman (18-1, 12 KOs) takes on Tomas Salek (17-3, 13 KOs) as part of a huge night of free-to-air boxing on Friday June 17 at the M&S Bank Arena. ‘Pretty Boy’ Josh Kelly (10-1-1, 6 KOs) also features alongside an electric British Super Flyweight Title Eliminator between Liverpool’s Marcel Braithwaite (12-3) and Thomas Essomba (11-7-1, 4 KOs). This unbelievable card will also host the professional debut of Aaron Chalmers, former Team GB fighter Chloe Watson (2-0) against Fara El Bousairi (5-2, 1 KO), the undefeated Paddy Lacey (2-0) , Mason ‘Nutty’ Cartwright (17-3, 7 KOs) and heavyweight giant ‘Magic’ Matty Harris (2-0, 1 KO). Promoted by Wasserman Boxing, live on Channel 5, in association with William Hill, Numan and Infinitum Entertainment. |
LOS ANGELES, JUNE 1 – Donnie Nietes will add another chapter to his remarkable boxing story if he reclaims the WBO world junior bantamweight title next month.
The former four-weight world champion challenges Kazuto Ioka, in Tokyo, on July 13 for the belt he won in 2018, when defeating the Japanese star.
Nietes would relinquish the crown soon after the fight, allowing Ioka the chance to win the vacant title and almost four years on, the pair renew their rivalry at the Ota-City General Gymnasium in a fascinating clash of 115lbs greats.
The fight will be promoted by SANKYO presents LIFETIME BOXING FIGHTS 9.
Donnie Nietes, said: “This was the fight I wanted the most and I am incredibly eager to win back my world title.
“I have been in training since February for this fight but I really stepped up my levels when I knew it was confirmed.
“This rematch makes me excited and when I vacated the title in 2018 it was always in my mind that I would, one day, win it back. On July 13, that dream will become a reality.”
DONAIRE VS INOUE TO BE ‘MONUMENTAL’
NIETES SIGNS WITH PROBELLUM
Nietes, 40, has won world titles at minimumweight, light flyweight, flyweight and up at 115lbs, where he takes on Ioka for a second time.
Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum, said: “Donnie is a boxing legend and a sure-fire Hall of Fame inductee in the future.
“But his career is far from over, there is plenty left in the tank and when he travels to Japan and rips the world title from Kazuto Ioka on July 13, it will rank as the greatest victory of his remarkable career.
“What a story it would be for Nietes to recapture the title he first won almost four years ago, and to achieve that in a great champion’s backyard, would make it even more special.”
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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 has already held back-to-back world championship nights in Dubai, as well as a packed card in Newcastle.
The world title action then headed to Liverpool last month where Paul Butler won the WBO bantamweight crown.
Probellum’s elite stable of fighters also includes Nonito Donaire, Regis Prograis, Estelle Mossely, Sunny Edwards, Eimantas Stanionis, Donnie Nietes and Dina Thorslund.
But the company has also recruited the next generation of stars with Peter McGrail, Mark Dickinson and Pat and Luke McCormack, Shabaz Masoud and Spencer Wilcox among the young talents under the Probellum umbrella.
Since launching, Probellum has signed co-promotional partnerships with some of the biggest promoters globally, including DiBella Entertainment (US), Wasserman (Germany), Universum (Germany), GYM (Canada), Maravilla Box (Spain), Team Ellis (Australia), Titov Boxing Promotions (Russia), Volcano Boxing (El Salvador), BXSTRS Promotions (Mexico), PR Best (Puerto Rico) Glozier Boxing (New Zealand), Box Office Sports (Ghana) and LNK Boxing (Latvia).????