Unbeaten Two-Time World Champion and Phoenix-Native David Benavídez Battles Former World Champion David Lemieux Headlining Live on SHOWTIME® Saturday, May 21 from Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. in Premier Boxing Champions Event

GLENDALE, Ariz. – March 30, 2022 – Unbeaten two-time world champion and Phoenix-native David “El Bandera Roja” Benavídez will look to thrill the crowd in his home state for the second consecutive time when he battles former world champion David Lemieux in a 12-round showdown for the vacant Interim WBC Super Middleweight Title headlining live on SHOWTIME Saturday, May 21 from Gila River Arena in Glendale, Arizona in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will see hard-hitting Cuban prospect Yoelvis Gómez taking on Mexico’s Jorge Cota in the 10-round super welterweight co-main event.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Sampson Boxing and TGB Promotions, go on sale tomorrow, Thursday, March 31 at 10 a.m. PT and are available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com at the link HERE.

“I’m looking forward to this fantastic fight between David Benavídez and David Lemieux on May 21,” said Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing. “It will be bombs away between two great punchers when they get in the ring and whoever wins will be at the top of the division and looking at some very big fights on the horizon.”

“David Benavídez is one of the most feared punchers in the sport, and the fans in his home state of Arizona will be able to see their local hero once again on May 21 when he challenges a fellow knockout artist in former champion David Lemieux,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “There will be an exciting undercard live on SHOWTIME leading up to Benavídez’s showdown with Lemieux that will see the winner capture the interim WBC Super Middleweight title and move one step closer to regaining their world champion status.”

Still just 25-years-old, Benavídez (25-0, 22 KOs) enters this fight having knocked out his last five opponents, including a September 2019 knockout of two-time super middleweight champion Anthony Dirrell. Most recently, Benavidez returned to fight in Arizona for the first time since 2015 and delivered a dominating seventh-round knockout of Kyrone Davis. Benavídez is trained by his father José Sr., alongside his brother and former title challenger, José Jr. In 2017, he became the youngest super middleweight champion in boxing history by defeating Ronald Gavril on SHOWTIME at just 20 years old. Benavídez went from a 15-year-old prodigy sparring with Gennady Golovkin and Peter Quillin, to world title contender with a 10-fight knockout streak from 2015 through 2017, including a highlight-reel knockout of Rogelio Medina with a seven-punch combination that earned him his first title opportunity.

“I’m excited to be fighting for another belt, and I’m training extremely hard because it is another big opportunity for my career and future,” said Benavídez. “David Lemieux still has a lot of power, so I have to make sure I sharpen all my skills 100 percent. I’m confident I can stop Lemieux and I’m planning on giving my fans another great fight on May 21.”

Fighting out of his native Montreal, Quebec, Canada, Lemieux (43-4, 36 KOs) has won five consecutive bouts heading into May 21, including three-straight wins since moving up to super middleweight in December 2019. The 33-year-old became a middleweight world champion in June 2015, defeating Hassan N’Dam to capture the belt before dropping a unification bout against Gennadiy Golovkin later that year. Lemieux would earn a second shot at the 160-pound title, eventually dropping a decision to Billy Joe Saunders in December 2017. Lemieux is a proven power-puncher who owns knockouts over a slew of contenders including Curtis Stevens, Gabriel Rosado, Gary O’Sullivan and Glen Tapia.

“Ever since I turned professional, I’ve had my eyes on the WBC belt,” said Lemieux. “This is my chance to grasp it. This is a very important fight for me and I plan on making a strong statement on May 21. I’m coming to win.”

The 24-year-old Gómez (5-0, 5 KOs) made a big statement in his U.S. debut on Christmas, blasting out the typically durable Clay Collard in the first round of their showdown. Born in Havana, Cuba and now fighting out of Las Vegas, the southpaw showed power in both hands and relentless finishing skills, immediately making him a rising contender in the talent-laden super welterweight division.

“I’m very excited to be making my SHOWTIME debut against a tough veteran fighter like Jorge Cota, who has been in the ring with some very big names,” said Gómez. “I want to deliver a memorable outing with a spectacular performance. I’m going for the knockout and I’m not going to be shy about it. I can’t wait to show everyone watching that I’m the new monster in the super welterweight division. This is a dream come true for me and I’m not going to let this opportunity pass me by. I want to be recognized as the next great fighter from Cuba and with the new breed of Cuban fighters who are big punchers with great ring IQ’s.”

Cota (30-5, 27 KOs) is a rugged slugger who will present a step-up for the rising Gómez on May 21. Cota most recently dropped a May 2021 bout against unbeaten Sebastian Fundora and has also shared the ring with unified 154-pound world champion Jermell Charlo, former unified world champion Jeison Rosario and top contender Erickson Lubin. The 34-year-old from Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico scored back-to-back stoppage victories prior to the Fundora fight, defeating Thomas LaManna and Cesar Chavez.

“I honestly don’t see much in Gómez as a fighter,” said Cota. “I don’t understand why his team picked me as an opponent because he lacks experience and has never fought anyone at my level. He’s not ready for the kind of pressure that I’m going to bring. I strongly believe he made a mistake in agreeing to this fight.”

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.




JERMELL CHARLO VS. BRIAN CASTAÑO UNDISPUTEDSUPER WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP REMATCH HITSDIGNITY HEALTH SPORTS PARK IN CARSON, CALIFORNIA ON SATURDAY, MAY 14

CARSON, CALIF. – March 30, 2022 – Unified WBC, WBA and IBF World Champion Jermell Charlo and WBO World Champion Brian Castaño will meet in a rematch of one of 2021’s most significant fights as again seek to become the first ever undisputed 154-pound champion in the four-belt era on Saturday, May 14 live on SHOWTIME from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event. Charlo vs. Castaño II was previously announced to take place on March 19, but was rescheduled after Castaño suffered an arm injury in training.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature rising welterweight star and pound-for-pound talent Jaron “Boots” Ennis dueling unbeaten Canadian Olympian Custio Clayton in an IBF Welterweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. Kicking off the telecast, Mexican contender Kevin González puts his unbeaten record on the line against Puerto Rico’s Emanuel Rivera in a 10-round super bantamweight attraction.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Lions Only Promotions, go on sale tomorrow, Thursday, March 31 at 12 p.m. PT and can be purchased through AXS.com. Ennis vs. Clayton is promoted in association with D&D Boxing.

“Saturday, May 14 will feature a scintillating card live on SHOWTIME as fans will be able to enjoy three high-stakes fights, topped by the eagerly anticipated undisputed championship rematch between Jermell Charlo and Brian Castaño,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Charlo and Castaño have proven once again that they are true warriors by going directly into this rematch that fans across the world demanded after the conclusion of their dramatic and unforgettable first fight. Now, the rabid sports fans in Southern California and watching live on SHOWTIME will get a front row seat to what shapes up to be an exceptional sequel at Dignity Health Sports Park, a venue renowned for hosting all-action contests.”

In an instant classic, Charlo and Castaño went toe-to-toe for 12 grueling rounds on July 17, 2021 on SHOWTIME, with the back-and-forth tilt ending in a split-decision draw. Each fighter believed they had done enough to have their hand raised in the first fight and will look to leave no doubt in the rematch.

Houston’s Charlo (34-1-1, 18 KOs) became a unified champion in September 2020, dropping Jeison Rosario three times on his way to an eighth-round knockout that earned him the WBA and IBF titles. Before that fight, Charlo had avenged the only loss of his career, as he reclaimed his WBC belt via an 11th-round knockout of Tony Harrison in one of 2019’s best fights. The 31-year-old is trained by Derrick James in Dallas and won his first world title in his debut fight with James by scoring an eighth-round knockout of John Jackson in 2016. He followed up that victory with three successful defenses, knocking out Erickson Lubin and Charles Hatley, and winning a decision over former world champion Austin Trout. Charlo returns to the same stadium where he won his first 12-round fight in a victory over Demetrius Hopkins in 2013.

“I’m the unified champ and I’ve got business to finish,” said Charlo. “My total goal as a kid was to win all of the belts as a professional and I plan to make history yet again on May 14, in front of my west coast fans and all across the world. If you know me, you know how I don’t take opportunities lightly – Lions Only, the time is now! Make sure you tune-in May 14.”

The 32-year-old Castaño (17-0-2, 12 KOs) put on a spectacular performance to capture the WBO title in February 2021, as he dominated Patrick Teixeira to wrest the belt away via unanimous decision. A native of Buenos Aires, Argentina, a win for Castaño on May 14 would be a monumental achievement in the storied history of Argentine boxing. Prior to winning his title, Castaño fought to a draw against two-division world champion Erislandy Lara in a 2019 action fight. He also owns triumphs over Michel Soro, Cedric Vitu and Wale Omotoso. A highly experienced amateur, Castaño notched victories over unified welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr. and top middleweight Sergiy Derevyanchenko before he turned pro.

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to face Charlo again for all four titles,” said Castaño. “This is champion vs. champion, just like it should be. The first fight was a great war. The rematch will be no different, but this time I won’t leave it in the judges’ hands. This is my era, and I will prove it.”

Ennis (28-0, 26 KOs) is the latest in the pantheon of outstanding Philadelphia fighters, combining sublime boxing skills with natural power in both hands. After numerous appearances on SHOBOX: The New Generation, the 24-year-old Ennis graduated to headlining his first SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast in April 2021, as he became the first fighter to stop former world champion Sergey Lipinets. He followed up that performance with an impressive first-round stoppage of veteran contender Thomas Dulorme in October. The knockout victory gave Ennis 18 KOs in his last 19 fights, with the only blemish being a no-decision in the first round against Chris van Heerden in December 2020.

“I can’t wait for this fight,” said Ennis. “This one means a lot to me. This is another step towards becoming a world champion. My time is now. Camp is going great, and I can’t wait to shine and put on a spectacular performance come May 14. It’s time for me to continue making big statements.”

A 2012 Canadian Olympian, Clayton (19-0-1, 12 KOs) fights out of Montreal, Quebec, Canada and will compete in the U.S. for the third straight time on May 14. The 34-year-old impressed in his U.S. debut in 2020, stepping in as a late replacement to fight former world champion Sergey Lipinets to a draw on SHOWTIME. Clayton most recently earned a 10-round unanimous decision over Cameron Krael in December 2021. He also owns 2019 victories over former champion DeMarcus Corley and Johan Perez, in addition to a 12-round decision win over then unbeaten Stephen Danyo in 2018.

“I love challenges and I know that I have a real one on May 14 against Jaron Ennis,” said Clayton. “That’s why I’m in this sport, to fight the best. When I prove myself against Ennis, nobody is going to be able to deny me a shot at the belts.”

The 24-year-old González (24-0-1, 13 KOs) will step in for his U.S. debut when he challenges Rivera on May 14 in Carson. A native of Sinaloa, Mexico, González has fought professionally since 2016, and owns a unanimous decision over former title challenger Ivan Morales in March 2021. González won a regional 122-pound title by stopping Alexander Mejia in July 2021, finishing the fight in round seven. Most recently, Gonzalez scored a first-round TKO over Antonio Guzman in December 2021.

“I am very happy to be fighting on a card of this magnitude,” said González. “To have my debut in the U.S. be on this stage, it is an opportunity that I have to take advantage of. No matter who my opponent is, I will always be ready and at my best. I am going to show everyone that I’m ready for the champions.”

Representing his native Bayamon, Puerto Rico, Rivera (19-2, 12 KOs) looks to make it three-straight victories on May 14. The 32-year-old put together a 12-fight winning streak between 2011 and 2017 before dropping a decision to then unbeaten Nate Green. Rivera returned to action after that fight in July 2021, winning a unanimous decision over Jonathan Lecona Ramos in his U.S. debut. Most recently, he stopped Wallington Orobio in November 2021.

“I was training at the gym when my manager told me I was going to be in this card,” said Rivera. “We never say no to any opponent that wants to fight me. I hope González is at 100% too, because I want us to put on a show for the fans and I want to continue on my way to fight for a world title. This is an opportunity I can´t let pass me by.”?




He’s Got Next: Lightweight Phenom Keyshawn Davis Returns April 30 Against Esteban Sánchez as Oscar Valdez-Shakur Stevenson Co-Feature LIVE on ESPN at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS (March 30, 2022) — Lightweight Keyshawn Davis, the 23-year-old Olympic silver medal superstar from Norfolk, Virginia, is coming to Las Vegas on Pro Football Draft weekend to show why he should be the boxing world’s top draft pick. Davis will battle Mexican veteran Esteban Sánchez in an eight-rounder Saturday, April 30 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.
 
Davis-Sanchez will be the co-feature to the junior lightweight title unification showdown between WBC champion Oscar Valdez and WBO king Shakur Stevenson.
 
Valdez-Stevenson and Davis-Sánchez will be televised live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. Undercard bouts will be announced shortly.
 
“Keyshawn Davis was the most sought-after free agent coming out of the Tokyo Olympics, and he is among the sport’s most gifted fighters,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “The main event features two of the world’s best fighters in Valdez and Stevenson, and I have little doubt that Keyshawn is on his way to becoming a pound-for-pound great.”
 
Davis said, “Fighting in Las Vegas at MGM Grand on Pro Football Draft weekend… I was born for this stage. I am going to put on another flawless performance and then watch from ringside as my brother, Shakur, puts on a show as well. The stars will be out, and they are going to see something special.”
 
Davis (4-0, 3 KOs) was supposed to fight Sanchez on March 19 in New York, but he contracted a non-COVID-related virus. He knocked out Jose Zaragoza in two brutal rounds in his Top Rank on ESPN debut last December. Davis made an impression against Zaragoza, folding his overmatched foe with a left hook to the body. His slightly delayed return comes against Sánchez (18-1, 8 KOs) a native of Ensenada, Mexico, who won a pair of fights in 2021 following his only career loss.
 
Promoted by Top Rank, tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting AXS.com.




LIVE VIDEO: YORDENIS UGAS MEDIA WORKOUT




FEDERICIPINCHUK APRIL 9 MAIN EVENTCRUISERWEIGHT TITLE COLLISION AT RIVERS CASINO

Schenectady, NY (March 30, 2022) – On Saturday, April 9, Italy based WBC CA Champion SIMONE “TYSON” FEDERICI (Lazio, Italy 18-2-1 8KO’s) will put his title on the line against Pittsburgh based and NABA Gold Champion LYUBOMYR “THE DEMOLITION MAN” PINCHUK (Pittsburgh, PA by way of Ukraine, 14-8-2 8KO’s) who will also put his title on the line in a winner take all cruiserweight title collision.

In November of 2019, Federici made the trip to New York to fight Stivens Bujaj for the WBC Continental America’s Cruiserweight title at Star Boxing’s “Rockin’ Fights.” Federici pressed the action, coming forward for nearly the entire fight. At the close of the 10-round contest, Federici would defeat Bujaj by unanimous decision and return home to Italy with the belt. (98-92, 97-93 x2). Federici now returns to New York after two stay busy victories in Italy, looking to defend his belt, and climb the cruiserweight rankings.

Pinchuk earned his NABA Gold title by defeating Mario Flores by unanimous decision on the undercard of his Star Boxing stablemate JOE SMITH JR.’s (28-3 22KO’s) recent WBO World Light Heavyweight Title defense at Turning Stone this past January. Pinchuk put his punches together and used a sticking jab as well as his height advantage to keep Flores at bay, and return to Pittsburgh with the title.

Star Boxing CEO JOE DEGUARDIA had this to say about the main event, “This main event has both international allure and important world ratings at stake. Both Federici and Pinchuk have a lot on the line and their styles should matchup to create a thrilling main event on April 9.”

When Federici and Pinchuk clash on April 9 at Rivers Casino, not only will two cruiserweight belts be on the line but a significant world ranking will be at stake. Professional championship boxing takes center stage at Rivers Casino in what should be an electric main event and exciting fight card.
The Rivers Casino fight card is presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing on April 9, 2022 at Rivers Casino & Resort in Schenectady, NY.
Bouts subject to change

SIMONE FEDERICI vs LYUBOMYR PINCHUK OFFICIAL FIGHT TRAILER
Simone Federici vs Lyubomyr Pinchuk WBC CA & NABA Gold Title Bout Trailer

FIGHT NIGHT TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE!
BUY TICKETS HERE!
TICKETS START AT JUST $50
FIGHT NIGHT: SATURDAY, APRIL 9 AT RIVERS CASINO SCHENECTADY
About Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady: Located at the picturesque Mohawk Harbor near the heart of downtown Schenectady, Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady features 1,050 slots, 67 live table games and a 16-table poker room and a live, in-casino luxury sportsbook lounge. The casino offers five distinctive restaurants—among them are Dukes Chophouse, Flipt, Johnny’s To-Go and Mian. Rivers features a multipurpose Event Center space, a lively entertainment lounge—Van Slyck’s, live music performances, free parking and daily promotions and giveaways. The Landing Hotel is a 165-room, six-story boutique hotel with riverfront views located adjacent to the Event Center. Rivers, which opened in 2017, employs approximately 1,200 team members and has been voted a great place to work in Schenectady. Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady is owned and operated by Rush Street Gaming and its affiliates. For more information, visit RiversCasino.com/Schenectady.

RockinFights.

ROCKIN’ FIGHTS ARCHIVES:
Rockin’ Fights 41: Oleh Dovhun vs Geram Eloyan – NABA Title (Highlights)
OLEH DOVHUN defended his NABA title for the first time against Belgium Bruiser GERAM ELOYAN in the main event at Rockin’ Fights 41!
Rockin’ Fights 35: Tyrone “Pretty Boy” James vs Ray Oliveira Jr.
TYRONE “PRETTY BOY” JAMES left his mark on “Rockin’ Fights” 35 with a vicious TKO victory over RAY OLIVEIRA JR. to remain undefeated!




World Cup Boxing Series inks pair of red-hot Mexican boxing prospects Jorge Lugo Cota & Marco Cota Moreno

LOS ANGELES (March 30, 2022) — World Cup Boxing Series (WCBS), founded by CEO Terry Hollan and matchmaker Guy Taylor, has signed two of the most sought-after Mexican prospects, lightweights Jorge Lugo Cota (8-0, 7 KOs) and Marco Cota Moreno (6-0, 4KOs).

The talented tandem had a combined 301-19 amateur record, including nine state and seven national championships.

“These two young men are the foundation of what our company is built on,” Taylor said. “Both of these young men have a deep amateur background, high ring IQ, and both are extremely marketable. We are going to introduce another tournament that will start in the summer and one, if not both young men, will be showcased in it.”

The 20-year-old Cota is the youngest member of the famed Montiel family. led by former 4-time World Champion Fernando Montiel 54-6 (39KO). “Jorgito,” as he is best known, was 155-15 as an amateur and 4-time Sinaloa State Champion.

As a professional, Cota has an 8-0 (7 KOs) record, winning each and every round of his young pro career.

“I am very thankful to the World Cup Boxing Series (WCBS), Guy Taylor and Terry Hollan,” Cota commented. “They have put their trust in me since day one. My job is to always be ready for any challenge put in front of me and I really appreciate this opportunity.”

Moreno, 19, was 146-4 as an amateur, highlighted by a bronze-medal performance at the 2015 National Tournament, in addition to winning a gold medal as National Champion. He was also a 5-time Sonora State Champion.

Moreno is currently 6-0 (4 KOs) in the pro ranks with all his knockouts coming in round one at an average time of less than two-minutes.

“I am very happy to sign with World Cup Boxing Series,” Moreno reacted . “I know that my career will be in good hands, and I will do everything possible to grow in this sport to be able to fulfill my dreams”

Cota (TKO5) and Moreno (UDEC4) were triumphant last week in Mexico during the 2022 Feria Nacional Nayarit Festival streamed live on UFC FIGHT PASS.

“Our plan is to keep these guys as active as possible without burning them out” Taylor added. “Thankfully, we can keep them fighting every month. If they’re ready to fight, we will have a spot for them. Our goal is to get both to 11-0 or 12-0 by the end of 2022”

INFORMATION:

Facebook: /WorldCupBoxingSeries

Instagram: @World_Cup_Boxing_Series




FIGHT HUB TV & FIGHTSTARS TO LIVESTREAM BXSTRS’ ‘HIGH-IMPACT’ BOXING THIS FRIDAY FROM MEXICO

This Friday, April 1, 2022, Fight Hub TV, in association with boxing’s best, up-and-coming digital platform, Fightstars, will proudly present High-Impact Boxing (Boxeo de Alto Impacto) a four-fight night of world-class boxing, streamed live, at no charge, from Jalisco, Mexico.

TO WATCH HIGH-IMPACT BOXING (4:17 PM EST/7:17 PM PST) PRESENTED BY FIGHTSTARS FOR FREE ON FIGHT HUB TV, CLICK HERE.

Presented by ‘The New Blood of Boxing in Mexico,’ BXTRS Promotions, in the high-impact 10-round featherweight main event, once-beaten power-punching knockout artist Eduardo “Sugar” Nunez (22-1, 22 KOs) Los Mochis, Sinaloa, will face fellow Mexican Adrian “Gallero” Pacheco (9-4-1, 5 KOs) of Mexico City.

Trained by the well-known Montiel family, in Los Mochis, the promising Nunez will be looking for his 23rd professional KO in as many wins and twelfth consecutive stoppage. The 24-year-old is a seven-year professional who has done all his fighting inside his homeland, thus far.

Also scheduled for the livestream are a pair of junior flyweights in an eight-round duel, as Hector “Rapidito” Flores (19-0-4, 10 KOs) of Tijuana, Baja California will take on Jose “Motorcito” Ramirez (13-8, 7 KOs) of Tlalchapa, Guerrero, Mexico.

Also scheduled is a six-round super featherweight battle between Mexico City’s undefeated Alberto Mora (3-0, 3 KOs) of Mexico City and an opponent TBA.

And to open the broadcast, unbeaten super featherweight Raymundo “Ray” Rojas (6-0, 4 KOs) of Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico, will take on Roberto “El Michoacano” Reyes (2-2) of Zitacuaro, Michoacan, over six rounds.

TO WATCH HIGH-IMPACT BOXING (4:17 PM EST/7:17 PM PST) PRESENTED BY FIGHTSTARS FOR FREE ON FIGHT HUB TV, CLICK HERE.

One of the fastest-emerging boxing-media companies in the world, fightstars.tv is a radically ambitious new subscription-based content-provider service offering world-class fights, gloves-off interviews, behind-the-scenes scoops and fight coverage from some of the biggest names in boxing to fans worldwide.

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CHELLI TAKES ON BRAZILIAN BANGER COSTA IN NEWCASTLE THIS SATURDAY NIGHT

Newcastle, England – 30 March 2022 – Fulham’s Zak Chelli will face the undefeated Brazilian Diego ‘Dynamite’ Costa in an exciting super-middleweight showdown on the undercard of Savannah Marshall’s WBO World Middleweight Title defence against Femke Hermans this Saturday night at the Utilita Arena in Newcastle, exclusively live on Sky Sports.

Fulham’s Chelli, who works as a supply teacher in London, has finished his school week early as he heads to the North East for his big clash with the heavy-punching Manchester based Latino who is regarded as one of the most avoided fighters around the weight.

Chelli (10-1-1, 5 KO’s) and Costa (8-0, 5 KO’s) could have met in the BOXXER 7 Super-Middleweight tournament in November 2020, but the tournament was reduced to a unique four-man format and Costa didn’t feature due to illness.

However, Chelli put on a classy and powerful performance on the night to shut out Vladimir Georgiev on points in the semi-final, before dropping Mike McGoldrick three times on the way to a second round stoppage in the final.

Former Southern Area Champion Chelli’s last fight was in April last year when he travelled to Kiev and defeated Borden Harrkavyi with a third round stoppage.

KO king Costa is unbeaten eight fights with five KO’s, with four of those coming quick inside three rounds. He credits his love of salsa dancing for his quick feet and generating the power from his hips to knockout opponents.

Chelli is excited with the fight against Costa and is promising to take his unbeaten record. He said, “I was gutted that we didn’t fight on Boxxer 7, but things happen for a reason and it’s a much better fight now down the line. Costa’s unbeaten, he likes to come forward, have a fight and he can punch. I can’t wait for this Saturday in Newcastle and I’m going to take that ‘0’ off his record. The fans in Newcastle and the viewers watching on Sky Sports are going to be in for a real treat.”




VIDEO: RYAN GARCIA SAN DIEGO MEDIA WORKOUT




RYAN GARCIA SAN DIEGO MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTE

SAN DIEGO, CA (March 29, 2022) – Undefeated boxing sensation, Ryan Garcia (21-0, 18KOs) of Victorville, CA, hosted a media workout today ahead of his scheduled match against Ghana’s Emmanuel “The Gameboy” Tagoe (32-1, 15KOs) on April 9th. The 12-round, lightweight Texas showdown will take place at San Antonio’s historic Alamodome on Saturday, April 9th, and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN. Today, Ryan showed off for the media all the hard work he has been putting in ahead of his fight. Also, Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy and Joe Goossen were in attendance to support Ryan and talk about his return to the ring on April 9th. Below is what Ryan, Oscar and Joe had to say. To watch the live stream, hosted by Golden Boy Fight Night’s Beto Duran, click HERE:

RYAN GARCIA, LIGHTWEIGHT CONTENDER:

“Now I’m at the point where I’m going to do amazing when I get into the ring. I’ve done all the promotion I can. I’m going to be the best I can be. You have to trust that gut feeling which most guys don’t.

“I knew Joe Goossen was going to be a perfect fit for me. He’s old school and I love that part of the game. He’s someone I can relate to, we have good chemistry.

“I’m always stalking my opponent, that’s my fighting style. Making sure I’m countering. Whenever an opportunity presents itself.

“I got knocked out for the first time in my life and I took it well. I reacted the way I imagined I would.

“I’m pretty good at fighting smaller guys. [Tagoe] is a little shorter and he likes to box.

“Fighters always try to pressure me. We’ll see since I don’t know too much about this guy. I’ll just stay calm and surgically break him down or knock him out. I have pretty good timing and accuracy. I think that has really separated myself from other fighters.

“My power has been coming out more effortlessly. I’m also not getting as tired. Everything’s coming together.”
OSCAR DE LA HOYA, CHAIRMAN AND CEO OF GOLDEN BOY:
“He’s fighting a guy who has nothing to lose,“ said Oscar De La Hoya. “I think Ryan needs to come out and make a point but do it smart and careful. Ryan knows what he is doing. He’s a professional. He’s been there before so it’s going to be an interesting fight. Joe Goossen has been in the game for so many years. I’m glad they made the connection”

JOE GOOSSEN, TRAINER TO RYAN GARCIA:
“I knew he had something special. We got along and there was something about him that appealed to me personality wise and fighting wise. He’s really attacking this like he’s obsessed and possessed. I’m genuinely impressed.”

Media credential applications to attend the Ryan Garcia vs. Emmanuel Tagoe fight are now open and can be accessed by going to: https://emcevents.com/garciatagoe.html. Please note credential applications will close on March 30th.

Garcia vs. Tagoe is a 12-round lightweight fight presented by Golden Boy in association with DiBella Entertainment. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle,” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Saturday, April 9th, at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN worldwide.

Tickets for Garcia vs. Tagoe are on sale now and are priced at $250, $150, $100, $75, and $40, not including applicable facility fees. Tickets will be available for purchase at Ticketmaster.com or in-person at the Alamodome Box Office, Monday through Friday, from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. CT.

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 #GarciaTagoe




UFC® TO MAKE HISTORY IN SINGAPORE IN JUNE ; UFC® 275: TEIXEIRA vs PROCHAZKA WILL MARK UFC’S FIRST PAY-PER-VIEW AND CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE BOUTS HOSTED IN SOUTHEAST ASIA

SINGAPORE – UFC®, the world’s premier Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) organization, today announced a pair of historic firsts which will take place in The Lion City, Singapore.

UFC® 275: TEIXEIRA vs PROCHAZKA will take place on Sunday, June 12, at the Singapore Indoor Stadium, making it the first-ever numbered UFC Pay-Per-View to be held in in Southeast Asia. The event will also feature the region’s first UFC championship bouts, as UFC world light heavyweight champion Glover Teixeira takes on No. 2 Jiri Prochazka, and UFC world women’s flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko faces No. 5 Taila Santos.

UFC® 275: TEIXEIRA vs PROCHAZKA will be UFC’s fourth event hosted in Singapore with support from the Singapore Tourism Board (STB). In planning the return of live events in Asia, UFC selected Singapore because of its proven health and safety track record and its outstanding infrastructure across all components – both of which are key to ensuring the successful production of a premium international event.

UFC® 275: TEIXEIRA vs PROCHAZKA will place Singapore alongside other major international locations to hold multiple UFC events including Tokyo, London and New York City. The presentation of a numbered Pay-Per-View event to Southeast Asia signifies the development of UFC in the region and the mixed martial arts promotion’s remarkable global growth.

“I can’t wait for our first Pay-Per-View event in Singapore,” said UFC President Dana White. “The fights have been incredible this year and we’re going to deliver an absolutely stacked card for the amazing fans in Southeast Asia.”

“Singapore will be the very first city in Southeast Asia to host a PPV event and UFC 275 is going to be huge! Asia’s biggest stars will be featured on a top caliber card, and the jam-packed fight week will be one to remember,” said Kevin Chang, UFC Senior Vice President, Asia Pacific. “We are thankful for STB’s support for this historic event in Singapore that will proudly showcase this vibrant and dynamic city.”

“UFC 275 will be the first UFC numbered event in Asia after a decade, and its presence highlights Singapore’s position as a leading destination for sports in the region,” Ms Ong Ling Lee, Director, Sports and Wellness, Singapore Tourism Board. “It is also a timely boost to our vibrancy and attractiveness as a lifestyle destination, as more international visitors return to Singapore.”

In 2014, UFC held its first event in Singapore, UFC Fight Night: Saffiedine vs. Lim, followed by UFC Fight Night Singapore: Holm vs. Correia in 2017, UFC Fight Night Singapore: Cerrone vs. Edwards in 2018, and UFC Fight Night: Maia vs. Askren in 2019. UFC® 275: TEIXEIRA vs PROCHAZKA will be the fifth event overall to be held in Singapore.

Leading global live entertainment company AEG Presents has been appointed as the official promoter of UFC® 275: TEIXEIRA vs PROCHAZKA in Singapore.

“AEG is extremely proud to be associated with UFC to bring this marquee event to Singapore,” said Adam Wilkes, President and CEO, AEG Asia Pacific. “UFC 275 will be an amazing experience for fight fans and for those who love, and have missed, world class events.”

UFC WORLD LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

In the ultra-competitive light heavyweight division, UFC world champion Glover Teixeira (33-7, fighting out of Bethel, CT, USA by way of Governador Valadares, Brazil) will make his first title defense since winning the belt with a second-round submission of Jan Blachowicz at UFC 267. Standing across the Octagon will be first-time title contender Jiri Prochazka (28-3-1, fighting out of Hosteradice, Czechia) who earned his shot with back-to-back KOs of No. 7 Volkan Oezdamir in his UFC debut then No. 3 Dominick Reyes.

UFC WORLD WOMEN’S FLYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Women’s pound-for-pound best, UFC world women’s flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko (22-3, fighting out of Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan) will make her seventh defense of the title and look to extend her eight-fight win streak. Dana White’s Contender Series veteran and No. 5 contender Taila Santos (19-1, Jaragua Do Sul, Brazil) earns her first title contention after a blazing four-fight win streak.

Additional bouts on the card include:

  • Former UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker (23-6, fighting out of Sydney, Australia) will face former title challenger Marvin Vettori (17-5-1, fighting out of Huntington Beach, Calif. by way of Mezzocorona, Italy).
  • A pair of surging middleweights return to the Octagon when Brendan Allen (18-5, fighting out of Milwaukee, Wisc.) meets Jacob Malkoun (6-1, fighting out of Sydney, Australia).
  • South Korea’s notable UFC veteran Kyung Ho Kang (17-9, 1 NC, fighting out of Busan, South Korea) aims to rebound in his 11th Octagon appearance and make a push towards the division’s top 15 when he faces Dana White’s Contender Series signee Saimon Oliveira (18-4, fighting out of Balneario Camboriu, SC, Brazil).

Additional bouts will be announced over the coming weeks.

UFC® 275: TEIXEIRA vs PROCHAZKA will begin at 6 a.m. SGT with the prelims, followed by the main card at 10 a.m.

Fans can stay up to date on ticket presale promotions by visiting and registering at https://ufc.com/presale.

Media members can apply for credentials to all UFC events by creating an account and registering at https://access.ufc.com/media_users/sign_in

Follow us on Facebook (UFC Asia), Twitter and Instagram (@ufc), and use the official hashtags: #UFC275 #UFCSINGAPORE.

About UFC®

UFC® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 688 million fans and 188 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to nearly 900 million TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 75 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is owned by global entertainment, sports and content company Endeavor, and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram and TikTok: @UFC.

About AEG Presents

Combining the power of the live event with a focus on true artist development, AEG Presents is a world leader in the music and entertainment industries. Operating across four continents, the company has an unparalleled commitment to artistry, creativity, and community. Its tentpole festivals and multi-day music events — which include the iconic Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival, the legendary New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, British Summer Time at Hyde Park, Stagecoach, Hangout Festival, Electric Forest, and Firefly — continue to set the bar for the live music experience alongside such renowned clubs and theaters as Webster Hall, Eventim Apollo, Mission Ballroom, The Roxy and Forest Hills Stadium, to name a few. AEG Presents promotes global tours for such artists as Justin Bieber, Kenny Chesney, Celine Dion, Elton John, Paul McCartney, Katy Perry, The Rolling Stones, Ed Sheeran, and Taylor Swift, in addition to creating and developing an unmatched infrastructure for artist development and audience reach through its network of clubs, theatres, arenas, stadiums, renowned wholly owned brands Concerts West and Goldenvoice, and partner brands Messina Touring Group, The Bowery Presents, PromoWest Productions, Marshall Arts, Frontier Touring, and Zero Mile Presents. More information can be found at www.aegpresents.com.




AUDIO: ERROL SPENCE JR. VS. YORDENIS UGAS PPV UNDERCARD VIRTUAL PRESS CONFERENCE






VIDEO: ERROL SPENCE JR. VS. YORDENIS UGAS PPV UNDERCARD VIRTUAL PRESS CONFERENCE




ERROL SPENCE JR. VS. YORDENIS UGAS PPV UNDERCARD VIRTUAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

ARLINGTON, TX. (March 29, 2022) – Fighters competing on the Errol Spence Jr. vs. Yordenis Ugas SHOWTIME PPV undercard previewed their respective showdowns during a virtual press conference Tuesday before they step into the ring on Saturday, April 16 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

The virtual press conference featured exciting lightweight contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz and former world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa, who meet in the co-main event, unbeaten Jose Valenzuela and former world champion Francisco Vargas, who square off in a lightweight attraction, plus all-action welterweights Cody Crowley and Josesito Lopez, who battle in the telecast opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the April 16 live event at AT&T Stadium, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Man Down Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at SeatGeek.com, the Official Ticketing Provider of AT&T Stadium.

Here is what the fighters had to say Tuesday:

ISAAC CRUZ

“I feel blessed and I’m ready to give my all once again. I’m excited to continue to show the best of myself in 2022.

“I wish I had pressured more against Gervonta Davis. If I had knocked him down I think it would have been a different story and it would have been me with my hand raised.

“Everything that happened in the Davis fight has made me better. My profile is definitely raised, but it has not gone to my head. I’m only focused on giving the fans the show that they crave and I know that I’m capable of giving them that.

“I respect Gamboa and I thank him for the opportunity of getting to fight him. His resume is beyond reproach. However, I’m not here to lay down for anyone. I’m here to show that I’m one of the top fighters in the division.

“My fists are going to speak inside of the ring. It’s not for me to say whether one punch can change the fight or not, we’re going to see what happens inside the ring on fight night.

“Each fight is different. I’m going to be ready for anything that Gamboa has to offer. I’m getting ready with an amazing training camp and I’m looking forward to showing everyone everything that I’m capable of.

“I learned a valuable lesson from the Davis fight. I learned that I need to be focused inside the fight at every moment. I’m going to show people that I’m the Mexican fighter that can rule the 135-pound division.

“I’m ready for however long it takes me to get this win, one round or all 12. I’m going to prove to all the top lightweights that I’m ready to fight any of them. If those fighters want to prove that they belong on the top level, then they have to fight me.”

YURIORKIS GAMBOA

“What I value the most is the fact that I’m going to be able to give fans the chance to see me fight once again and show them what I can do in the ring.

“I’m a pro. I’m not in the business of sending messages or making statements. What I’m focused on is trying to become number one and being the best I can be inside the ring in order to beat my opponent. The rest is just talk.

“My mere presence in this fight, the way that we have been prepared for this fight and what’s at stake, that alone tells you that I am one of the top fighters in the division.

“I have a tactical plan. I have a strategy ready to go for whatever happens. I’m ready to go for whatever comes my way and I’m planning to face anything and everything.

“I definitely have the edge in experience but at the same time, I’m going to rely on my preparation. I’m going to rely on the game plan and the strategy that we have put together to be able to fight and win any way we can.

“I’m going to show everybody that’s watching on T.V. and that’s watching in the stands that Yuriorkis Gamboa is still here to stay and that Yuriorkis Gamboa can still be the best in the division. There’s definitely a lot of people that are overlooking what I still have left in the tank and the quality of fighter that I still am. People are going to see that that’s just noise.

“When I beat Isaac Cruz, I want the rematch with Gervonta Davis. I really didn’t feel comfortable with the way that first fight unfolded. I fought with a torn Achilles for 11 rounds but I was still able to withstand everything and get to the finish. I need another bite at the apple and I need to show that I have the quality to beat him. I need to fight him while I’m healthy and 100 percent, because that fight will be totally different.”

JOSE VALENZUELA

“This win is going to show everyone that I’m here and that I can compete with the top guys. Francisco Vargas is a strong former champion and I’m excited for the challenge.

“I’m always trying to make a statement, but I don’t want to get carried away looking for the knockout and make a mistake. I’m going to stick to the game plan.

“Vargas is still a great fighter. He gave Isaac Cruz a run for his money and couldn’t get him out of there. So my mission is to go in there and out-perform everybody.

“It’s a dream come true to be on a card like this. The whole card is stacked. I’m very excited and I’m looking to steal the show. This is everything that I’ve worked so hard for.

“I just remember watching Vargas coming up and putting on great performances. I’m happy about it. He’s the perfect opponent because we’re both going to come to fight.

“I’m extremely focused on this fight. He’s still a dangerous fighter. I’ve been in training camp for three months. I’m not just training to win, I’m training to look spectacular.

“It’s a great experience training with David and Jose Benavidez and their team. When I go and spar other fighters, I feel like a veteran because I’ve been training with them since I was a teenager. It’s been a great opportunity for me.

“I’m hungry, I’m young and I believe that he’s on his way out. You could definitely call this a passing of the torch.”

FRANCISCO VARGAS

“My main objective is to win the fight. Nothing else matters. All I want is to win the fight in order to get the best possible opportunity after this fight.

“I’m going to listen to my body. That’s the bottom line. When I can feel that my body says no more, then that will be the time for me to step aside. But for now, I feel like my body is just fine. I feel capable. I feel ready and I will be ready to go on April 16.

“Of course it motivates me when I hear Valenzuela say that I am past my prime and on the way out. But at the same time, I know how I feel. I feel totally ready. I feel in shape physically and mentally to be up to the challenge. I’m going to prove that to all of you on fight night.

“We are simply going to take this fight round-by-round. We are doing a great job in training camp to make sure that I can go the entire 10 rounds if needed.

“I can promise you that it’s going to be a great fight. A very entertaining fight. The fans are going to love it.

“I know what it feels like to be Jose’s age. I was in his place at one point where I felt like I had all the energy in the world and felt that I was going to take over the world. But what I’m lacking in youth, I gained in experience. I have maturity now. In this fight, you’re going to see how that experience is going to work in my favor.”

CODY CROWLEY

“The victory in my last fight didn’t change my confidence. I’ve had the same confidence since day one. What did I say at the last press conference? I told Kudratillo Abdukakhorov I was going to take him to deep waters. What you saw was a guy who was sinking and drowning. That’s because of the high power pressure I produce every time I’m in the ring. It looks easy, and guys say they want to go toe-to-toe with me, but within a round or two, their backs are on the ropes.

“I have a guy in Josesito Lopez who’s coming forward and who’s ready to sit there and bang it out. That’s what I’m here to do. I’m here to give the fans the entertainment that they’re paying for. Every time I fight I make sure the fans are getting their money’s worth.

“I thank Josesito for taking this fight. Without him, I wouldn’t be able to get in the ring and paint the beautiful picture I’m about to paint. I respect him, but when the bell rings, the light goes off and it’s time to go.

“I bring a pressure that’s not fun to face. I make it so you can’t breathe and you can’t move your legs or hands. I’m like an octopus in that ring. Once I step in there, I’m on you like glue.

“I hope he brings another level of experience and puts me into a position I’ve never been in, because that’s going to bring out the best version of Cody Crowley. That’s what I strive for. I want to be in a position that I don’t think I can get out of. That’s when you will see what I’m truly made out of.

“At the end of the day I’m a scrappy, hard-working pressure fighter that just keeps coming forward. I would love to be able to showcase some of my boxing abilities. Normally I have to chase people down. I’m hoping that’s not the case with Lopez and that we can go toe-to-toe. But I’ll be ready to show off the boxing abilities that not everyone has seen.

“I have power, speed and aggression. The last 20 guys have said they were going to be able to withstand the pressure, but eventually, the pipe bursts.”

JOSESITO LOPEZ

“Everyone should expect fireworks. You know every fight that I’m in, it’s fireworks. Cody Crowley seems to be the exact type of fighter that I like facing. I know it’s going to be a great match and you’ll see a big difference in experience. I’m going to take him to those deep waters and I’m going to drown him in those deep waters.

“Is Josesito Lopez still a top fighter at 147 pounds? Yeah, that may be the question. You’ll see on April 16. I’m definitely ready. I feel great. I’ve had a wonderful camp. I take no shortcuts. I’m all in and I’m ready for this fight. I take every fight like a championship fight.

“I’m the type of fighter that doesn’t look ahead past my next opponent. I’ve devoted the last eight weeks of training camp getting ready for this opponent. I’m not looking far ahead. I have a task on April 16 and once I take care of that, we can look ahead. I definitely want to face the best fighters there are. The best in the world. I’m not going to go as far as to say that I’m the best fighter in the world, but I can beat some of the best fighters in the world. I want to prove that.

“I’ve been motivated this entire camp. I’m ready. I’m expecting the best in Cody. I’m more than prepared. I have a great team and great sparring partners that can be top welterweights as well. I’m definitely prepared and I’m going to prove it to the world and show that I am one of the best fighters in the world.

“I’m always in the gym so I’ve been training constantly. Sometimes a little rust is good. But I’ve been sparring and training throughout this entire year. Ring rust won’t be an issue.

“I’m excited to be back at AT&T Stadium in Texas where I have some of the biggest and best fans out there. I’m pumped for this fight. I’m 110% ready and I’m going to go out there and do it.”

# # #

ABOUT SPENCE VS. UGAS

Spence vs. Ugas will see WBC and IBF world champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. and WBA world champion Yordenis Ugas square off in a welterweight title unification clash that headlines a SHOWTIME PPV on Saturday, April 16 from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features exciting lightweight contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz taking on veteran former world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in the 10-round co-main event.

The lineup also includes unbeaten Jose Valenzuela battling former world champion Francisco “El Bandido” Vargas in a 10-round lightweight fight, plus unbeaten Cody Crowley faces veteran contender Josesito Lopez in a 10-round duel of all-action welterweights that kicks off the telecast.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sportswww.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #SpenceUgas, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing and @PremierBoxing, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing and @PremierBoxing or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.




Four More Big Wins By Split-T Management Fighters

New York, NY (March 29, 2022)- Split-T Management Fighters had their hand raised on Saturday. Those four were in addition to Ebanie Bridges winning the IBF Bantamweight title on Saturday afternoon.

Saturday night at The Resorts World Hotel in Las Vegas, Split-T Management went three-for-three with impressive victories.

2021 U.S. Olympian Tiger Johnson stopped Sebastian Gabriel Chaves in around four of their six-round welterweight bout.

In round four, Johnson dropped Chaves with a right hand. Later in the round, Johnson dropped Chaves with a massive left hand and the fight was stopped at 1:42.

Johnson, 142 lbs of Cleveland, OH is 3-0 with two knockouts. Chaves, 143.2 lbs of Buenos Aires, ARG is 5-4.

Haven Brady Jr. stopped Juan Angel in round four of a scheduled six-round featherweight bout.

In round four, Brady landed a hard flurry of punches and was able to put Angel down with a double right. Brady finished off Angel by dropping him with an uppercut and the fight was stopped at 2:05.

Brady, 127 lbs of Albany, GA is 6-0 with four knockouts. Angel, 126.6 lbs of Chile is 8-3.

Dante Benjamin Jr. won a four-round unanimous decision over Kevin Johnson in a battle of undefeated light heavyweights.

Benjamin, 173.6 lbs of Cleveland, OH won by scores of 40-36 on all cards is now 2-0. Johnson, 174.4 lbs of Wichita, KS is 2-1.

Johnson, Brady and Benjamin are promoted by Top Rank.

At the Montreal Casino In Montreal, Mary Spencer needed just 23 seconds to take care of Beatriz Aguilar in their scheduled four-round six-round welterweight bout.

Spencer of Montreal, was a three-time world amateur champion and Pan-American Games champion is now 4-0 with three first round knockouts.

Aguilar of Mexico is 7-7-2.

Spencer is promoted by Eye of the Tiger Management.




Date & Venue announced for WCBS tournament championship final

LAS VEGAS (March 28, 2022) – Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions (RJJ Boxing) and World Cup Boxing Series (WCBS) have jointly announced the date and venue for the championship final of the inaugural “WCBS 4-Man Lightweight Tournament.”

The two finalists, Luis “Koreano” Torres (15-0, 10 KOs) and Irving “Poderoso” Castillo (12-2, 8 KOs), will throw-down June 2nd in the main event at Palenque de la Expo in Obregón, Sonora, Mexico.

“The anticipation has been building and we are all very excited that the tournament final is almost here,” RJJ Boxing president Lisa Veltre commented. “We’re happy to be returning to Obregon. I’d like to thank our partners for this tournament: Guy Taylor, Terry Hollan, and Emanual Romo.”

“June 2nd is going to be an electric night of action,” WCBS creator/matchmaker Guy Taylor said. “Luis Torres is quickly becoming a major attraction in his hometown of Obregón, Sonora, Mexico. More than 2,100 fans came to the semifinals, and we are expecting a near sellout for the finale.

“The winner of our ‘4-Man Lightweight Tournament’ will take a huge leap from prospect to contender in the very rich lightweight division.”

In tournament semifinals action held this past February at the same venue, Torres knocked out Rodolfo “Rudy” Flores (14-6, 6 KOs) in round four, after dropping him in the second and third rounds, while Castillo took an 8-round majority decision over Isai “Gaga” Hernandez (11-3-1, 7 KOs) to set-up his showdown. Pre-tournament favorite Torres, 20, will be headlining again in his hometown of Obregon.

Torres vs. Castillo will be contested in a 10-round match and, if needed, an “overtime” round will be held to declare a winner in the event of a draw upon the conclusion of the scheduled distance. The tournament is sanctioned by the World Boxing Council (WBC). The winner will become the new WBC Latino Lightweight Champion, as well as receive a world rating from the WBC.

INFORMATION:

Websites: http://www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com, www.ufcfightpass.com

Facebook: /UFCFightPass, /WorldCupBoxingSeries

Twitter: @UFCFightPass, @RoyjonesJRfa, @RoyJonesJrOfficial

Instagram: @UFCFightPass, @WorldCup_Boxing_Series, @RoyJonesJrBoxing

ABOUT ROY JONES JR, 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.




43-0 Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez  prepared to move up & challenge WBC Cruiserweight champion Ilunga Junior Makabu

LAS VEGAS (March 29, 2022) – Despite winning the WBA Light Heavyweight World Title Eliminator last December to become the mandatory challenger for WBA Super Champion Dmitry Bivol, 43-0 Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez finds himself blocked from fighting for a world light heavyweight title due to boxing politics and a unification fight.

Rather than sit and wait, or fight a meaningless tune-up, Ramirez is fully prepared to move up in weight once again, this time to challenge World Boxing Council (WBC) Cruiserweight World Champion Ilunga Junior Makabu (29-2, 25 KOs).

“I’m always ready to take on anyone,” Ramirez said. “I was hoping to make the Bivol fight, but he took another route. It’s definitely disappointing but I’m glad he was rewarded with Canelo. He’s a good guy and definitely has a chance to change his life forever. Now moving forward, as always, I’m open to fighting anyone from light heavyweight to heavyweight, and why not start with cruiserweight? Golden Boy did mention Makabu to me and if he has the balls to face me, I will snatch that WBC title from him with ease. Despite the weight difference, I would out-skill, out-speed, and out-fight him in every aspect.”

Last December in San Antonio, Ramirez (43-0, 29 KOs) did his job to earn his long-awaited showdown with Bivol, stopping Yunieski “The Monster” Gonzalez (21-4, 17 KOs) in the 12th round to become Bivol’s mandatory challenger. However, Bivol has since been allowed by the WBA to fight unified super middleweight world champion “Saul“ Canelo” Alvarez (57-1-2, 39 KOs) on May 7th in Las Vegas.

The other two world light heavyweight champions, (WBC/IBF) Artur Beterbiev (17-0, 17 KOs) and (WBO) Joe Smith, Jr. (28-3, 22 KOs), are reportedly fighting in a unification bout June 18th in New York City, effectively shutting out the 30-year-old Ramirez from fighting for the world light heavyweight title until this fall at the earliest.

Makabu, 34, is the first and only native of the Democratic Republic Of The Congo to be world boxing champion. According to reports, ironically, he was all set to fight “Canelo” until boxing’s “rainmaker” shifted gears and chose Bivol as his next opponent. Makubu captured his WBC Cruiserweight crown January 31, 2020, when he decisioned Michael Cleslak, followed by two successful title defenses versus Olanreqaju Durodola (34-7) and Thabisco Mchunu (23-5), both by 12-round decision.

The first Mexican to capture the world super middleweight title, “Zurdo” wants to write Mexican boxing history again as the first from his country to be world cruiserweight champion.

Rated as the No. 2 light heavyweight in the world by both the WBA and WBO, as well as No. 4 by the IBF and #5 by The Ring magazine.

“Zurdo” is ready to move on up and add to his growing boxing legacy.

INFORMATION:

Website: www.ZurdoPromotions.com

Instagram: @zurdoramirez, @zurdopromotions

Twitter: @ZurdoPromotions, @GilbertoZurdoRamirez




PROBELLUM SIGN TEENAGE AMATEUR STAR DUBBED THE ‘NEXT AMIR KHAN’  

LONDON, MARCH 29 – Probellum have added the lightning quick teenage amateur Ali Tazeem to its growing stable of red-hot prospects.

The 18-year-old won 15 international gold medals in a 51-bout amateur career and has earned a glowing endorsement from British boxing great Amir Khan who predicted: “He will be the next me and make history.” Tazeem, who was born in Wolverhampton, announced his deal with Probellum, the fastest growing brand in boxing, after winning his final amateur bout for the Pound 4 Pound Academy on Saturday, in front of a packed crowd in Birmingham. The hugely popular Tazeem forced a standing count of his opponent on the way to a unanimous points victory, with his dazzling performance also including an ‘Ali Shuffle’ to entertain his fans. “I’ve followed Ali Tazeem’s career for years now and I can assure everyone he’s got all the tools to make it to the very top of this sport,” said Sam Jones, Probellum’s Head of Talent Relations. “He’s 18 years old so there is no need to rush him, we can build him nice and slowly, so we know exactly when he’s ready to make the step up.  But let me tell you, I cannot wait to watch this journey unfold.” Tazeem, who won 45 times as an amateur and won medals at major tournaments such as the Monkstown Box Cup, joins Probellum’s impressive list of young talent. Olympic silver medallist Pat McCormack announced himself to the pros with a knockout win in Newcastle last week, on a card which also included the exciting Mark Dickinson, while Peter and Joe McGrail as well as debutant Luke McCormack look to further enhance their reputations on Probellum’s Liverpool show next month“I’ve made a lot of moves inside the ring, but the best move I’ve made in my career is signing with Probellum,” buzzed Ali Tazeem.  “With hard work and dedication, I know I can be the best in the business, especially with the support of Sam Jones, Probellum, my team and great people around me.” Tazeem has also been taken on the pads by the legendary Floyd Mayweather Snr and the teenager has delivered boxing training to Wolverhampton Wanderers winger Adama Traore. To keep up to date with Tazeem’s pro journey, including news of his debut, sign up to the Probellum newsletter or follow Probellum on InstagramTwitter and Facebook  

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

Probellum’s elite stable of international fighters includes Nonito Donaire, Regis Prograis, Estelle Mossely, Sunny Edwards, Lee McGregor, Donnie Nietes, Dina Thorslund and Muhammad Waseem.

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

Since launching, Probellum has also 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).?




HEAVYWEIGHT FIGHTER SONNY CONTO HOPES TO SHATTER TRISKAIDEKAPHOBIA WHEN HE PUTS HIS UNDEFEATED RECORD ON THE LINE AND ENTERS THE BOXING RING AT PARX CASINO® ON FRIDAY, MAY 13

South Philly heavyweight boxer Sonny Conto (9-0, 7KOs) looks to shatter triskaidekaphobia when he puts his undefeated record on the line and steps into the ring for a six-round bout against former USA New England Champion Justin Rolfe (7-3-1, 5KOs), of Fairfield, ME, at Parx Casino® on Friday, May 13 at 7 p.m.

“The fans of Bucks County, Philadelphia, and New Jersey are passionate about their boxing, and we have been bombarded with fans contacting us asking when we are going to return to Parx Casino®. I’m excited to tell them – WE ARE BACK!” stated promoter, Joe Hand, Jr.

Tickets at $50, $75, and $125 are on sale NOW at https://tickets.parxcasino.com/tickets/390007, Hold My Ticket Call Center at (1-877-466-3404) or by calling 215-364-9000. Must be 21 or older to attend.

Daiyaan Butt (10-2, 5KOs), also of Philadelphia, PA, has two first round knockouts in his last four fights and looks to show his power in a six-round super lightweight bout.

Super featherweight Jordon Murphy (2-0, 1KO), originally from Bensalem, PA, and now residing in Deerfield Beach, FL, will be returning to Bensalem to fight in front of his family and friends when he competes in a four-round super featherweight bout.

Undefeated D’Angelo Fuentes (7-0, 4KOs), of Coconut Creek, FL, will have his hands full in a six-round featherweight bout as he tries to push his undefeated streak to eight.

The always entertaining Christopher Burgos (3-5-1, 1 KO), of North Philadelphia, PA, will face Philip Davis (2-5-1) of Worcester, MA, in a six-round lightweight contest.

Making his debut on the card will be 2014 Pennsylvania Golden Gloves champion Karl Wylie out of Coatesville, PA.

For press credentials contact Bam McCloskey at Brittany@JoeHandPromotions.com.

ABOUT JOE HAND PROMOTIONS

Founded in 1971, Joe Hand Promotions is the nation’s oldest and largest television distributor of pay-per-view and closed circuit sports and entertainment events, such as the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), championship boxing, and concerts. JHP’s event consultants provide their marketing knowledge and promotional expertise to help commercial establishments grow their business through the use of live sports and entertainment programming. Additionally, JHP hosts 4-6 live boxing events per year in the Philadelphia area. These events have held sold-out crowds at various venues and arenas.

ABOUT PARX CASINO®

Parx Casino® is owned and operated by Greenwood Racing, Inc. and is the #1 revenue-generating casino property in Pennsylvania. Parx Casino® is conveniently located 20 minutes north of center city Philadelphia, I-95 exit 37 or PA Turnpike exit 351 (westbound), exit 352 (eastbound) on Street Road in Bensalem, Bucks County, with complimentary parking for over 5,000 cars. Parx features Xlounge, a luxury casino lounge, and over 200,000 square feet of gaming; 3,270 slot machines and 148 live table games; 40 poker tables; Parx Poker, a new custom-built private poker room; live racing and simulcast action. The Xcite Center at Parx Casino is a 1,500-seat live entertainment venue. Parx has an array of dining options to include Parxgrill, an upscale signature restaurant; Foodies quick service dining; Chickie’s & Pete’s Crab House and Sports Bar; Jax sports bar; Circle Bar; and Bambu Noodle House. In 2019, Parx launched sports betting and opened the massive year-round Liberty Bell Beer Garden gastropub to rave reviews. For more information on Parx Casino®, visit www.parxcasino.com.




CES MMA, CES Boxing host back-to-back events this weekend in Hartford

Hartford, CT (March 29) – Fifteen exciting bouts, two nights, one exciting weekend of combat sports at the Connecticut Convention Center.

CES MMA and CES Boxing invade Hartford this weekend for back-to-back events at the Convention Center, beginning this Friday with CES MMA 67 live on UFC FIGHT PASS® and concluding Saturday with a full day of boxing that features the amateur Jimmy Burchfield Invitational Classic VIII at 2 pm followed by a pro card at 7.

Tickets for both events are available online at CESFights.com. CES 67 begins Friday at 8 pm ET with play-by-play announcer Michael Parente (@MichaelParente); color commentator Joe Lauzon (@JoeLauzon), a 27-time UFC vet; and FUN 107 on-air personality and cageside correspondent Madelyn Levine (@maddieonair). Headlining is a five-round, all-Connecticut, world championship showdown between current CES MMA welterweight champion Billy Goff (6-2, 4 KOs) of Groton and Hartford’s Justin Sumpter (8-4, 2 KOs) for the vacant CES MMA World Middleweight Title.

The following night, East Hartford super lightweight Mykquan Williams (16-0-1, 7 KOs) makes his long-awaited homecoming in an eight-round showdown against New Jersey’s Tyrone Luckey (15-16-4, 11 KOs) and Springfield, MA, featherweight Joshua Orta (8-0, 4 KOs) puts his unbeaten record on the line against the dangerous Jayron Santiago (8-8-1, 5 KOs) of Bayamon, Puerto Rico in the six-round co-main event.

The 48-hour Convention Center showcase continues what has been a busy spring for the region’s No. 1 combat sports promotion. Goff, who steps in Friday on short notice after ex-UFC vet Eric Spicely suffered in an injury during training camp, recently won the vacant welterweight title earlier this month at CES 66 in Rhode Island and now jumps up a full weight class to challenge Sumpter, a two-time Bellator and UFC vet making his fifth appearance with CES. Sumpter aims for his first world title while Goff is attempting to join Matt Bessette as the only CES fighters to simultaneously hold two world titles in different weight classes.

Also fighting Friday, bantamweight Johnny Lopez (12-5, 6 KOs) battles Azjavkhlan Baatar (7-6, 4 KOs) of New Mexico and Springfield’s Pat Casey (8-4, 2 KOs) faces Ithaca, NY, vet Armus Guyton (5-2, 3 KOs) in a welterweight showdown.

Russian light heavyweight Yuri Panferov (1-0), who lives and trains in North Haven, faces pro debut Mus’Aub Baiyina of Rochester, NY, and unbeaten West Haven lightweight Eddy George (4-0, 4 KOs) puts his perfect record and knockout streak on the line against Emiliano Calderon (1-1, 1 KO). The main card also features longtime Bellator vet Mike Kimble (3-3, 2 KOs) making his long-awaited CES debut in a lightweight bout against Tristan Lindi (2-3, 2 KOs) of Medford, OR. Full fight card details are available online.

While Williams has fought at Foxwoods Resort Casino and Mohegan Sun Casino 12 times in his career, Saturday is his first in his hometown and his first overall since January of 2021. Luckey, a veteran of 35 fights, has won two of his last three and has bouts against top prospects Frank Martin, Bryan Flores, Jerry Perez, and Jamaine Ortiz on his resume.

In the co-main event, Orta faces one of his toughest tests to date. Santiago returns to New England following an upset victory in November over fellow New England featherweight Nathan Martinez, who entered the bout 7-1.

Springfield welterweight Jalen Renaud (7-0, 3 KOs) returns in six-round bout to face longtime upset specialist and Lancaster, PA, vet Evincii Dixon (10-28-2, 5 KOs), whose recent stretch includes wins over unbeaten Marcel Rivers and undefeated Detroit native Joseph Bonas. Dixon makes his fifth appearance with CES and first since 2019.

Also fighting Saturday, fast-rising super featherweight Isaiah Cruz (2-0, 1 KO) of Springfield faces New Jersey’s Tyriek Gainey (0-2) in a four-round bout and super middleweight Jahvel Joseph (5-0, 2 KOs) of the Bronx faces unbeaten Vero Beach, FL, native Zachary Albornoz (1-0) in a four-round special attraction. Undefeated Hartford bantamweight Angel Gonzalez (8-0, 6 KOs) returns in a six-round bout, his second appearance with the promotion and first since September.

For the latest on CES events and fighters, visit CESFights.com. For exclusive content, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @CESBoxing and @CESMMA and on Facebook at Facebook.com/CESBoxing or Facebook.com/CESMMA.

INFORMATION
CES MMA is a mixed martial arts promotional company based out of Providence, R.I., founded by legendary boxing promoter Jimmy Burchfield Sr. It promoted the first sanctioned professional mma event in the state of Rhode Island on Sept. 17, 2010 at Twin River Casino Hotel. Since its inception, CES MMA has been a gateway to the UFC developing the careers of UFC contenders Calvin Kattar, Rob Font, Charles Rosa, William Knight, Mike Rodriguez, Tony Gravely, Andre Soukhamthath and others. In October 2012, CES MMA promoted its first pay-per-view event at The Dunkin’ Donuts Center in Providence, featuring the professional MMA debut of former WWE superstar Dave Bautista, and recently signed a two-year extension to broadcast exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®.

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

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 17,000 bouts from dozens of combat sports organizations, as well as every fight in UFC history. Fight fans can access 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.




SHOWTIME SPORTS® TO SURROUND SPENCE VS. UGAS PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS EVENT WITHBEST-IN-CLASS PREMIUM PROGRAMMING

NEW YORK – March 28, 2022 – SHOWTIME Sports is preparing two significant programs in support of one of this year’s biggest pay-per-view events.

The network will for the first time televise a special SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING headlined by WBA Welterweight Champion Radzhab Butaev and top contender Eimantas Stanionis in a battle of unbeatens taking place immediately before the four-fight Spence vs. Ugas SHOWTIME PPV® from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins live at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and also features unbeaten rising star Brandun Lee taking on Zachary Ochoa in a super lightweight bout.

Additionally, SHOWTIME Sports will premiere a new installment of the Emmy Award-winning series ALL ACCESS. The multi-part series premieres Saturday, April 2, at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME with episode two premiering Saturday, April 9, at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT in advance of Spence vs. Ugas on Saturday, April 16. Furthermore, ALL ACCESS Epilogue will premiere on SHOWTIME the following Saturday, April 23, and will showcase fight week in Dallas as well as all the action inside the ropes on fight night and the immediate aftermath.

“We are pulling out all the stops for the April 16 event, which is easily one of the biggest of the year. Delivering a special episode of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING to our subscribers before the four-fight pay-per-view card begins is something that has never been done in the history of this network. We are proud to break precedent,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “Adding high-stakes, compelling fights to an already strong undercard elevates what is sure to be a memorable night for boxing. Plus, a new installment of our signature ALL ACCESS series to chronicle the divergent paths of Spence and Ugas to reach this moment will be captivating drama. It’s an embarrassment of riches from top to bottom for the boxing audience.”

Tickets for the April 16 live event at AT&T Stadium are on sale now and can be purchased at SeatGeek.com, the Official Ticketing Provider of AT&T Stadium.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING LINEUP

The 28-year-old Butaev (14-0, 11 KOs) captured his WBA title with a dominating performance on SHOWTIME in October, as he battered top contender Jamal James on his way to a ninth-round stoppage victory. Butaev turned pro after approximately 400 amateur bouts in 2016 and reeled-off KOs in six of his first seven outings. Butaev is now trained by top coach Joel Diaz in Indio, Calif. His TKO victory over James gave Butaev victories inside of the distance in five of his last six fights.

“I’m feeling very prepared for this fight on April 16,” said Butaev. “Every time I step into the ring, I’m looking to give the fans an exciting fight. Knowing how Stanionis also loves to come forward and compete, this time, it’s a guarantee that there are going to be fireworks. We’re definitely both going to bring it in this fight. Make sure you don’t miss this one, because it’s going to be a brutal back-and-forth affair.”

Stanionis (13-0, 9 KOs) earned a series of attention-grabbing victories as he has climbed the ranks from prospect to contender, including a career-best 12-round decision over Thomas Dulorme in April 2021 on SHOWTIME. The 27-year-old former Olympian from Lithuania, who now lives and trains in California, most recently fought former champion Luis Collazo to a no-decision in August 2021 after an accidental clash of heads prematurely ended the action. Prior to going 12 rounds for the first time with Dulorme, Stanionis had stopped six of his previous eight opponents.

“I’m excited for this huge opportunity to show my skills in front of thousands of fans at AT&T Stadium,” said Stanionis. “Butaev is a strong opponent. I know that this is going to be a hard fight for both of us and that our styles are going to make this action-packed for as long as it lasts. My goal for 2022 is to become world champion. That’s been my dream since I was a child and now I’m very close to bringing the belt back home to Lithuania.”

A highly regarded prospect, Lee (24-0, 22 KOs) has won his last 15 fights by knockout, most recently dropping and stopping veteran contender Juan Heraldez on SHOWTIME in December 2021. Trained by his father Bobby, Lee fought four times in 2020 and three times in 2021 as he continued to pile up knockouts. He had a decorated amateur career with an estimated record of 196-5 and was the 2015 U.S. Junior National Champion, taking home the gold medal at 145 pounds.

“I think it is a great idea to have our fight lead into the SHOWTIME PPV,” said Lee. “What better way to show all the boxing fans out there some of the top young talent looking to become the next contenders and world champions in the sport.”

A native of Brooklyn, New York, Ochoa (21-2, 7 KOs) trains in Philadelphia with highly regarded trainer Stephen “Breadman” Edwards. The 28-year-old was unbeaten in his first 16 pro fights and bounced back from his first pro defeat to win five straight contests between 2017 and 2020. Ochoa returns to the ring after dropping a narrow, split decision to Argentine contender Juan Jose Velasco in February of 2021.

“I’m very ready and focused on this fight coming up on April 16,” said Ochoa. “I’m sure Lee will be ready too and that just makes me more motivated to be at my best. Trust me, this is a night boxing fans will not want to miss!”

ALL ACCESS: SPENCE VS. UGAS

ALL ACCESS: SPENCE VS. UGAS peels back the curtain to showcase how the two champions share one trait – resilience. Both fighters open up about their frantic and ultimately fruitful journeys that led them to this moment with Spence talking about his near-tragic automobile accident and eye injury that forced him to miss a career-defining opportunity against Manny Pacquiao, and Ugas depicting his harrowing journey from Cuba to the United States.

Filming is underway in Dallas, revealing a surprising lifestyle change Spence has made as he prepares for the fight with longtime trainer Derrick James. Filming in Las Vegas has also begun, where Ugas is in training camp under renowned coach Ismael Salas.

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ABOUT SPENCE VS. UGAS
WBC and IBF world champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. and WBA world champion Yordenis Ugas square off in a welterweight title unification clash that headlines a SHOWTIME PPV on Saturday, April 16 from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features exciting lightweight contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz taking on veteran former world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in the 10-round co-main event.

The lineup also includes unbeaten Jose Valenzuela battling former world champion Francisco “El Bandido” Vargas in a 10-round lightweight fight, plus unbeaten Cody Crowley faces veteran contender Josesito Lopez in a 10-round duel of all-action welterweights that kicks off the telecast.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #SpenceUgas, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing and @PremierBoxing, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing and @PremierBoxing or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.

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

About AT&T Stadium:
AT&T Stadium is one of the largest, most technologically advanced entertainment venues in the world. Designed by HKS and built by Manhattan Construction, the $1.2 billion stadium features two monumental arches, the world’s largest HDTV video board cluster, an expansive retractable roof and the largest retractable end zone doors in the world. Features of the stadium include seating for 80,000 and expandability for up to 100,000, over 300 luxury suites, club seating on multiple levels and the Dallas Cowboys Pro Shop, open to the public year round. The stadium is also home to a world-class collection of contemporary art, made up of over 50 pieces from an international array of curated artists displayed on the walls and in the grand public spaces of the venue. In addition to being the Home of the Dallas Cowboys since opening in 2009, the stadium has hosted Super Bowl XLV, the 2010 NBA All Star Game, the 2014 NCAA Men’s Basketball Final Four, the 2015 College Football Playoff National Championship Game and the annual Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic. The venue has also played host to high school and college football, concerts, championship fights, international soccer matches, and other special events. For more information, go to www.attstadium.com.




Ebanie Bridges wins IBF Bantamweight World Championship of Maria Cecilia Roman in Leeds, England

New York, NY (March 25, 2022)–Ebanie Bridges won the IBF Bantamweight title with a 10-round unanimous decision over Maria Cecilia Roman.

The bout took place in front of a sold-out crowd at The First District Arena in Leeds, England.

Bridges, who is managed by Split-T Management under Brian Cohen and Team Empire Boxing, out worked and out hustled Roman on the inside as well as landing some good punches to the body. Bridges was effective with her uppercut and took the lead from the outset.

Roman tried to make a fight out of it, but Bridges showed her championship heart, and was able to be very effective down the stretch to claim her first world title.

Bridges landed 205 of 645 punches; Roman was 156 of 430.

Bridges, 117.3 lbs of New South Wales, AUS won by scores of 100-91 and 97-93 twice and is now 8-1. Roman, 116.4 lbs of San Juan, ARG was a five year-champion, who had made seven defenses and is now 16-6-1.

“I am feeling proud of myself, and everything that I sacrificed has been worth it. This belt means all of the sacrifice and training. I was so happy for that kind of fight. I hope the fight was entreating. Cecilia brought the fight. I am grateful to win the title in this great city of Leeds,” said Bridges,




MTK Global return to Grays with event on April 30

MTK Global will head back to Grays Civic Hall in Essex for another action-packed prospects show on Saturday 30 April.
It’s the latest show to feature some of MTK Global’s best rising stars, following a triumphant event at the same venue earlier this month.

Jamie Robinson (11-5-2, 3 KOs) is back following his challenge for the English super-lightweight title in his last outing, while the extremely popular Joe Giles (2-0) returns to the ring for his third outing.

Ben Vaughan (1-0) is back after a successful professional debut in October, plus Aaron Prospere (3-0, 1 KO) looks to earn his second victory of the year.

Ben Smith (9-0) makes his long-awaited return as he competes for the first time since 2019, and female star Dee Allen (1-0, 1 KO) goes in search of her second win in a month.

MTK Global Promoter Lee Eaton said: “It’s great to return to Grays Civic Hall for another prospects event, especially so soon after our last show there. We had a great night there earlier this month, so we’re really excited to showcase even more talent.

“All of the boxers on the card are highly-touted and are capable of achieving big things in their respective careers, so we’re looking forward to another sold out event on April 30 where the fans can witness some incredible fighters.”

Stay up to date by subscribing to our weekly newsletter HERE and on social media @mtkglobal




Granite Chin heavyweight Quintin Sumpter Riding high off upset victory

QUINCY, Mass. (March 28, 2022) – Last Saturday in Rhode Island, undefeated Pittsfield (MA) Quintin Sumpter heavyweight pulled off an upset that better positions him for a significant fight this year.

Sumpter went into the lion’s den to face undefeated Providence heavyweight Timothy Hatfield (3-1, 3 KOs), a decorated New England amateur boxer, without any reservations. Like a throwback fighter, Sumpter never turns down a fight offer from his promoter, Chris Traietti.

Against Hatfield, Sumpter came out throwing big overhand rights that obviously made a deep impression on his opponent, who was never in the fight despite one judge scoring the fight a draw, while the two others had Sumpter winning all four rounds.

“We only had 2-3 weeks to prepare, so we reached out to a few world-class fighters for sparring. I must have sparred 50-55 rounds with Cassius Chaney in two weeks. Chad Dawson (3-time world light heavyweight champion) and Mike Marshall (reigning New England heavyweight titlist holder) helped me, too. They all gave me pointers. I knew I was fighting a guy in his backyard and went into the ring to knock him out. Once I got into it, I boxed. Mentally, he couldn’t handle my power; once he felt my right, he was timid the rest of the fight.

“I was confident that I had won, but when the scores were announced and one of the judges had it 38-38, I had a look on my face like, what? I’m not saying I’m the best, but I want to continue showcasing my talent, and prove that I can fight with anybody.”

“This was a huge win for Quintin,” Traietti commented. “He basically sent from an unknown talent to a prospect that have eyes on him. Hatfield had an extensive amateur background. Quintin showed up to fight and took it to Hatfield. Don’t be surprised if his next fight is on a mega-stage.”

“Chris has always taken care of me,” Sumpter added. “I’m the first heavyweight he calls. We had a fight on the Fury-Wilder (3) card (last Oct. to in Last Vegas) that fell through. I’m grateful for Granite Chin and proud Chris is promoting me.”

Quintin’s younger brother, undefeated super middleweight prospect Steven (5-0, 5 KOs) is also promoted by Granite Chin.

The Sumpter brothers are Granite Chin stablemates along with Mass. super lightweight Mike Ohan, Jr., Mass. middleweights Anthony Andreozzi and Julien Baptiste, Mass. super welterweight and Carlo Castillo, Mass. light heavyweights Edet Mkpanam, and Leondro Silva, Mass. super featherweight Ryan Kielczweski, Mass. welterweights Denzel Whitley and Dave Ribeiro, Mass. super middleweight Laurent Humes, New York light heavyweight Scott Lampert, New Jersey super lightweight Tyrone Luckey, Conn. heavyweight Mike Marshall (New England champion), Maine heavyweight Justin Rolfe (former New England champion), Texas middleweight Larry Smith, and Georgia middleweight Antonio Todd.

INFORMATION:

Facebook.com/GraniteChin, /DavidJRibeiro

Twitter: @Granite_Chin

Instagram: @chinchekker_qt




HOLLYWOOD FIGHT NIGHTS RETURNS Thursday, May 12 at the Quiet Cannon – Montebello Country Club

Los Angeles, CA (March 28, 2022) Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions returns on Thursday, May 12 as part  of its acclaimed Hollywood Fight Nights series at the Quiet Cannon – Montebello Country Club.

Headlined by Top, Undefeated Irish Prospect Callum Walsh and Broadcast, Live Internationally on UFC Fight PassAdvance Tickets are Now-On-Sale starting at $150 (VIP Ringside), $100 (Preferred Seating) and $80 (Reserved Seating), online at Hollywood Fight Nights / Seating. The Quiet Cannon – Montebello Country Club is located at 901 via San Clemente, Montebello, CA 90640. Doors will open on the night of the event at 5:30 p.m. PT. For more information on the venue please visit www.QuietCannon.com.

“With our most recent event on St. Patrick’s Day selling out in advance, I strongly encourage local fans to purchase their tickets long before May 12 to ensure entry on the night of the event,” said Loeffler. “We’re thrilled to bring Callum Walsh back and to partner with UFC FIGHT PASS to broadcast the event live internationally.”

The 21-year-old Walsh, fighting out of Cork, Ireland, improved to 2-0 with the heavy-handed and highly touted southpaw stopping Gael Ibarra in the first round on the St. Patrick’s Day card.

More information on this event will be announced shortly.

About Tom Loeffler

Loeffler holds the record for having promoted the most heavyweight world title fights this century while promoting all the championship fights of Wladimir and Vitali Klitschko for K2 Promotions, a company he founded with the brothers. Tom also brought the Spotlight to the Flyweight division launching the Superfly Series on HBO that highlighted stars including Roman “Chocolatito” Gonzalez, Juan Francisco Estrada, Kazuto Ioka, Srisaket Sor Rungvisai and Carlos Cuadras. Tom is best known for his work with Gennadiy “GGG” Golovkin building him into an international superstar as the reigning middleweight world champion for the last 10 years. He strategically secured global sponsorship deals with Jordan Brand, Hublot, Tecate, Chivas, and Bijan. Tom has also worked with Hall of Fame fighters Shane Mosley, James Toney and Kevin Kelley as well as hosting the US debut of Naoya Inoue. 

About 360 Promotions:

During 2017, Tom Loeffler founded 360 Promotions to provide rising boxers additional opportunities to develop their talents. 360 Promotions produced the acclaimed ‘Superfly’ series giving exposure to tremendous talents in the lighter divisions including world champions; Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez, Juan Francisco Estrada, Srisaket Sor Rungvisai, Naoya Inoue and Kazuto Ioka. In 2018, 360 Promotions launched the Hollywood Fight Nights series at the Avalon Nightclub in Hollywood, CA. Hollywood Fight Nights is billed as the VIP boxing experience which provides a platform for rising boxers to develop their talents as future champions.

Social Media

#HollywoodFightNights

#UFCFightPass

Twitter

@UFCFightPass

@360BoxingPromos

@TomLoeffler1

 @howlerhead

Facebook

@UFCFightPass

@360BoxingPromos

@howlerheadwhiskey

Instagram

@callum_walsh1 

@ufcfightpass

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AUDIO: Isaiah Wise speaks after his Fight of The Year Candidate with Cameron Krael






VIDEO: Isaiah Wise speaks after his Fight of The Year Candidate with Cameron Krael




AUDIO: Jesse Hart “I will show the world that Berlanga Can’t Fight”






VIDEO: Jesse Hart “I will show the world that Berlanga Can’t Fight”




Sultan Zaurbek faces Haithem Laamouzon next month’s MTK Fight Night

Undefeated Kazakh star Sultan Zaurbek will defend his WBO European super-featherweight title against dangerous challenger Haithem Laamouz when #MTKFightNight returns on April 15.
The show takes place at York Hall in London and will be broadcast live in the US on ESPN+ in association with Top Rank, and worldwide on IFL TV, with a British and Commonwealth lightweight title fight between Gavin Gwynne and Luke Willis serving as the main event.

Zaurbek (12-0, 8 KOs) is back after a successful 2021, winning the vacant WBO European super-featherweight title against Ronnie Clark last July, before a defence in December where he stopped Ryan Wheeler in six rounds.

He now has one of his toughest tests yet when he turns his attention to Laamouz (17-1, 7 KOs), who in his last fight won the EBU European Union super-featherweight title when he travelled to Italy to defeat local favourite Mario Alfano by unanimous decision.

MTK Global Promoter Lee Eaton said: “We wanted a serious test for Sultan and he’s definitely got one by facing Haithem Laamouz. It’s a fantastic fight and another great addition to our huge MTK Fight Night next month.

“Sultan has looked very impressive in his last few fights, but Haithem will be coming to win and make things very difficult, so we can’t wait to see how things unfold.”

Elsewhere on the event on April 15, Sam Gilley defends his English super-welterweight title against Drew Brown, Nina Hughes takes on Bec Connolly, plus Pierce O’Leary, Carl Fail, Elliot Whale, Dean Richardson, Paul Ryan and Jimmy Croxson are all in action.

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