LAS VEGAS (March 9, 2022) – Four-time, 2-division World champion Brian “Hawaiian Punch” Viloria is enjoying the next chapter of his life, following his Hall of Fame-caliber boxing career, as an elite trainer based at Brickhouse Boxing Club in North Hollywood, California.

Shortly after his last fight, back in 2018, Viloria decided to start working as a trainer at Wild Card West (now Churchill Gym in Santa Monica, CA), where he started developing his trainer skills working in the same gym at Freddie Roach, Roberto Garcia, and Joe Goossen.

“I was able to pick-and-choose from those coaches to create my own style,” Viloria explained. “I knew that I wanted to be a trainer because I had a lot of knowledge and experience that I could pass along to the next generation of fighters. I took off the gloves and put on the mitts. I slowly built up my skills at Wild Card West with Julian Chua (head trainer of 43-0 Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez). It was an easy transition for me. It does take time to breakdown a fighter to find out how they like to receive information because everybody is different. Some like to read books, others like watching, They need to have fun, too. I want them to love the experience and craft.”

How Viloria ended up at Brickhouse was a little unusual and, of course, the pandemic played a significant role in that respect. Prior to the pandemic, Brian had learned that “Zurdo” and his manager, David Shu, were going to open up a gym.

“They asked if I was interested in moving to Las Vegas,” Viloria remembered. “And then the pandemic came. Two years later, in 2021, David called me saying they had found a spot in North Hollywood. It was a lot closer for me than Santa Monica. I only live 8 to 10 minutes away from the gym (Brickhouse). I still train one or two fighters at Churchill. My mainstay, though, is Brickhouse. I’m so close I can go home and take a nap between training sessions. I wanted to create a brand from scratch alongside Julian to hone my skills as a trainer. I like communicating with people.

“It’s a collaborative effort at Brickhouse, no disconnects. All the trainers communicate between themselves. Just because I won four world titles doesn’t outweigh the other coaches. We are a coaching staff at Brickhouse, where everybody’s input goes into making the consensus on fighters’ decisions. The biggest thing is we’re creating space at Brickhouse. We all check out egos outside the doors. It isn’t about the trainers; it’s all about fighters learning more. It’s about fighters not who’s at the helm of the coaches. I love working on the coaching staff here. We are all making a name for ourselves as trainers by being on the Brickhouse staff.”

Viloria trains Cem “Champ” Kelic (15-1, 10 KOs) and Carlos Nava (6-0, 3 KOs), both fighters are in the 3 Point Management (3PM) stable, which also manages “Zurdo,” the former World Super Middleweight Champion, and today a top-ranked World light heavyweight contender.

Turkish super middleweight Kelic headlines a March 17th card against Andrew Hernandez (21-8-2, 9 KOs) in an 8-round bout at Quiet Cannon Country Club in Montebello, California. The 27-year-old Kelic is living the American Dream having moved from Germany to the United States to enhance his pro boxing career.

“He has great power and plenty of gas in the tank,” Viloria noted. “He just needs to work on his defense instead of sitting in the pocket throwing punches and getting hit too much.”

Nava, a 23-year-old lightweight prospect from Pasadena, Texas, was the 2014 USA Olympic National Champion. He recently had a 4-week training camp at Brickhouse for, among several reasons, to get top notch sparring he doesn’t have at home.

“Carlos has a lot of amateur experience,” Viloria remarked. “He has great length and a good eye in terms of defensive awareness. He’s still in the style that doesn’t sit on punches like pros. I didn’t have enough time with him at camp to create a full style.”

Nava _ Viloria.jpg
(L-R) – Carlos Nava & Brian Viloria

Viloria retired as a boxer with a 38-6 (23 KOs) pro record, after he was 230-8 as an amateur, including being a member of the 2000 USA Olympic Boxing Team. He was undisputed World junior flyweight champion twice, as well as a 2-time World flyweight titlist.

“I’ve concluded that this (as a trainer) is the next chapter of my life,” Viloria commented. “It’s hard for athletes like me to stop boxing. It’s good to be a champion and then it’s over. I started boxing when I was five and it becomes your identity. This is what we do. Some may turn to drugs or be depressed, and that’s why a lot of fighters don’t know when to hang up their gloves. I knew when it was time to hang up my gloves. I didn’t have the same fire in my last couple of fights. I feel like I was going through the motions. No emotion!

“I had been helping train fighters in the gym when I was still fighting. Because I was world champion myself, my ultimate goal is to mold a kid someday to be world champion. I’m very excited about this part of my life.”

“Hawaiian Punch” is enjoying the journey to the fullest.

INFORMATION:

Website: www.ZurdoPromotions.com

Instagram: @zurdoramirez, @zurdopromotions, @ViloriaBoxing

Twitter: @ZurdoPromotions, @GilbertoZurdoRamirez, @BrianViloria

MINNEAPOLIS – March 9, 2022 – Top super welterweight contender and rising star Tim Tszyu will make his long-awaited U.S. debut when he takes on U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in a 12-round showdown that headlines action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, March 26 from The Armory in Minneapolis in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature rising undefeated lightweight contender Michel Rivera dueling fellow unbeaten Joseph “Blessed Hands” Adorno in the 10-round co-main event, plus hard-hitting super lightweight contender Elvis Rodríguez faces Juan José Velasco in the 10-round telecast opener.

“Tim Tszyu has risen up the rankings and established himself as a serious contender at the top of the loaded 154-pound division, and he’ll look to make a splash stateside when he faces the highly-skilled and experienced Terrell Gausha,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “The action will be coming throughout this lineup, as lightweight phenom Michel Rivera takes on the undefeated Joseph Adorno, while Elvis Rodríguez looks to continue his ascent in the super lightweight division against the always tough Juan José Velasco.”

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, No Limit Boxing and Warriors Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased at the Armory at http://ArmoryMN.com/ and through Ticketmaster.

The son of former unified champion Kostya, Tim Tszyu (20-0, 15 KOs) has quickly made a name for himself as one of the most promising contenders at 154-pounds. Tszyu headlines on SHOWTIME following in his father’s footsteps after Kostya competed 10 times on the network, including memorable knockouts of Julio Cesar Chavez Sr. and Zab Judah. Fighting out of his native Sydney, Australia, Tszyu will make his U.S. debut on March 26 after earning his first 20 pro wins in his home country. The 27-year-old went the 12-round distance for the first time in his last fight, dominating Takeshi Inoue on his way to a unanimous decision in November 2021. The decision victory came after Tszyu had put together stoppage wins in eight of his previous ten outings.

“I’m very excited to be fighting in the U.S., especially on SHOWTIME, where my dad was featured for most of his career,” said Tszyu. “I’m proud and excited to continue on the Tszyu name with SHOWTIME. Once I take care of Gausha, I will be coming for the title.”

A member of the 2012 U.S. Olympic team, Gausha (22-2-1, 11 KOs) was born in Cleveland, Ohio but now fights out of Encino, Calif., where he is trained by Manny Robles and Prenice Brewer. The 34-year-old has faced tough competition throughout his career, having fought former champion Austin Trout to a draw in 2019 in addition to decision losses against former champion Erislandy Lara and top contender Erickson Lubin. Gausha showed improved power in his most recent bout, stopping rising contender Jamontay Clark in two rounds in March 2021.

“I’ve been ready for this fight for a long time,” said Gausha. “I came into this game to be a world champion and fight the best. I expect Tim to come in great shape and I’ll also come in my best shape to put on a great fight for the fans. My coaches are getting me prepared perfectly for the kind of fight I need to put on so that I can leave the ring victorious.”

Born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and now fighting out of Miami, Fla. Rivera (22-0, 14 KOs) burst onto the scene in 2019, making his U.S. debut with a victory over Rene Tellez Giron on SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION®. The 23-year-old continued his ascent in 2020, adding a stoppage win against Fidel Maldonado Jr. and a unanimous decision triumph against lightweight contender LaDarius Miller. Rivera carried his dominance into 2021 with three more victories, including a stoppage of Anthony Mercado in February before delivering a highlight-reel knockout of Jon Fernandez in July on SHOWTIME. He most recently scored a shutout unanimous decision over Matias Romero in October.

“This is a great opportunity for me to display my talents once again against a high-quality opponent in Joseph Adorno,” said Rivera. “I’m ready to take on anyone willing to challenge me until my time comes to fight for the world title. My goal is to be victorious on March 26 and then face Gervonta Davis for his title. With each fight I’m getting closer to reaching that goal. I can’t wait to show off all the hard work that I’ve put into this camp on fight night.”

Adorno (14-0-2, 12 KOs) has fought to a draw in each of his last two fights, dropping fellow unbeaten Jamaine Ortiz twice in April 2021 after dueling Héctor “Guadaña” García in January 2020. The 22-year-old was born in Union City, New Jersey and now resides in Allentown, Pa., having fought in nearby Philadelphia five times throughout his career. Adorno turned pro in 2016 at the age of 17 after a standout amateur career where he amassed a 178-22 record and beat Shakur Stevenson’s twice. He has scored knockout victories in nine of his first 10 pro fights.

“This fight is a chance for me to show my true talents,” said Adorno. “Not taking anything away from Rivera, but I know I’m going to be the better fighter on March 26. I’m working with a new trainer, Raúl ‘Chino’ Rivas, who has trained many talented fighters, and I’m ready to showcase myself at my very best. I’m more focused than ever and I’m not going to let this opportunity pass me by. Everybody better be ready for a show on March 26.”

Rodríguez (12-1-1, 11 KOs) bounced back from his first career defeat, a majority decision loss to Kenneth Sims Jr., to knockout the previously unbeaten Juan Pablo Romero on the Canelo vs. Plant SHOWTIME PPV® undercard in November. The 26-year-old burst onto the scene with knockout victories in 10 of his first 11 fights and put together an impressive five wins in 2020. Originally from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Rodríguez now lives in Los Angeles

“March 26 is another step toward my world championship goal,” said Rodríguez. “I am fighting a tough veteran fighter who has faced top-level competition. I’ve stayed in camp through Christmas so that I can be 100% ready for this fight. Winning on March 26 means a lot for my career and I hope that a win will put me in contention for a title shot this year. I want to show the world that I’m ready for the big names in the division.”

The 34-year-old Velasco (23-2, 14 KOs) enters this fight on a three-bout winning streak, having most recently earned a split decision victory over Zachary Ochoa in February 2021. A native of Jujuy, Argentina, Velasco has tangled with some of the toughest fighters in the 140-pound division, including former champions Mario Barrios and Regis Prograis. Velasco will fight in the U.S. for the fifth time on March 26.

“I’m very honored to be on a great card like this,” said Velasco. “This is actually the second time that I’ve been preparing to face Rodríguez, so I know what I’m up against. He’s going to come into the right at 100%, just like I will. May the best man win on March 26.”

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

ORANGE, CA (March 9, 2022) – Thompson Boxing’s unbeaten lightweight contender Miguel “El Explosivo” Madueño (27-0, 25 KOs) is excited for the biggest fight of his career as he faces former world champion Jezzrel Corrales

(25-4, 10 KOs) in a 12-round WBA title eliminator. The main-event bout will take place this week at the Roberto Duran Arena in Panama City, Panama on March 12, 2022, on a “KO to Drugs” event, hosted by the WBA.

Here is what Madueño had to say about this recent training camp, his matchup with Corrales, fighting in his first WBA title elimination bout, and more.

On his recent training camp.

“This has been a great camp, in which I spent a large portion of this camp in the mountains, training hard and pushing myself to the furthest limits possible. This is the fight of my life, and the biggest fight of my career. I’m in tremendous shape and my timing has been spectacular in sparring. I am giving it my all, day-in, and day-out, to get the result I want come fight night.”

On his matchup with Corrales.

“He is really tricky and has been in the ring with some really good fighters like Chris Colbert and Alberto Machado. He’s got good boxing skills and I know exactly what I must do to stop his movement. I see myself as a world champion, an exciting fighter, and someone fight fans will be watching for years to come. This is the first step for me to show myself, my team, and Thompson Boxing the fighter I am, and Corrales is the type of fighter who will bring the best out of me.”

On fighting for a WBA lightweight title elimination bout.

“Everyone knows the lightweight division is one of the most exciting divisions with a lot of great champions that the fans love watching. I am looking forward to winning this WBA elimination bout which will allow me to pursue my dream of becoming a world champion. This will be my twenty-eight professional fight and it has been a long journey, but many fighters never get to fight for a world title, so to get there is a major accomplishment. I’m grateful to my promoter Thompson Boxing and the WBA for giving me this opportunity.”

On becoming Thompson Boxing’s next world champion.

“Thompson Boxing has groomed me to be a world champion and now I want to follow in the footsteps of Timothy Bradley, and Daniel Roman. They have been great to work with to me and I want to repay them by being the next world champion under their banner. It would mean a lot to have grinded with a group of individuals and then turn my achievement into a group achievement.”

CHESHIRE, CT — Imagine a destination where Mike Tyson, Riddick Bowe, Evander Holyfield, George Foreman, Lennox Lewis and the best up and comer boxers of this generation share a stage. Look no further with this week’s launch of Boxing TV, the place where boxing fans both young and old can get their fill of “The Sweet Science” 24 hours per day, seven days a week.

With a vast library of 1200 events from the most memorable bouts of all time, Boxing TV melds the past’s greats with today’s most promising stars. Remember when Lewis knocked out Tyson in 2002? How about when Foreman captured the heavyweight title after flooring Michael Moorer? Boxing TV has all of the best fights and will feature at least one live event each week featuring “Tomorrow’s Stars Today.”

A partnership among Triple-B Media, Main Events and Payne Boxing, Boxing TV’s goal is to become the free, go-to destination for everything boxing, including classic bouts, live events and news and information programming. At launch, Boxing TV will be available on Local Now, Distro TV, SPORTS.TV, SelectTV and on Triple-B’s Streamstak platform at www.watchboxing.tv.

“With the launch of Boxing TV, our hope is to feature the magic and amazing storylines of boxing, its athletes and amazing fans,” said Anthony Bailey, Managing Director for Triple-B Media. “Boxing has been a proven dedicated sport on television for decades and now we’re happy to provide it to fans on a free, ad supported basis.”

“I have known for years that the extensive archive of great fights that has been carefully built over the four decades that Main Events has been in boxing deserved an easily accessible home where old and new fans could view and appreciate its stunning depth and breadth without having to pay a fee,” said Kathy Duva, CEO of Main Events. “Being a boxing fan already costs too much money. I am happy to announce today that I have finally found that home. In addition, as Boxing TV grows in the years ahead, Main Events looks forward to working with Triple-B and Gardner to create many more memorable events as we build another generation of promising young stars on the Boxing TV platform.”

“We are very excited to partner with Triple-B Media and Main Events to bring around the clock boxing to sports fans all over the world,” said Gardner Payne, President of Payne Boxing. “Fans will now be able to watch some of the greatest boxers and boxing matches of all time as well as see live fights showcasing the next generation of superstars in our sport.”

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About Payne Boxing
Payne Boxing (www.payneboxing.com) is a holistic boxing management firm located in Charlotte, NC with its training facility in Fort Lauderdale, Florida under the watchful eye of lead trainer and boxing coach, Luis “Chiro” Perez. Payne Boxing manages some of the top boxers in the world including Argentina Olympian and WBA #11 ranked Welterweight, Alberto Palmetta, WBA #12 ranked Super Flyweight, Michell Banquez, and WBC Latin Feather Title Holder, Frency Fortunato. South American based television network, TyC Sports, showcased Payne Boxing and its fighters in the Payne Boxing Series over the last two years.

About Main Events Boxing
Internationally recognized as one of the top boxing promotional firms in the world, Main Events has promoted the careers of boxing legends Evander Holyfield, Arturo Gatti, Lennox Lewis, Pernell Whitaker and many more. Founded in 1978 by Hall-of-Fame promoter Dan Duva, who passed away in 1996, Main Events is now helmed by his widow, Kathy Duva, who is scheduled to be inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame this coming June.

About Triple-B Media
Triple-B Media is a full service television and digital media company, specializing in the operation of free, ad supported television networks. To date, Triple-B Media owns or operates seven television networks including For The Fans (FTF), Lacrosse Sports Network, Fido TV, ACL Cornhole TV, MotoAmerica TV, Billiard TV and Boxing TV. The Company also operates its own streaming platform called Streamstak at www.streamstak.com.

Los Angeles, CA (March 9, 2022) UFC FIGHT PASS and Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions have partnered for the exclusive broadcast of the Thursday, March 17 Hollywood Fight Nights event from the Quiet Cannon in the Montebello Country Club featuring former amateur Irish Standout Callum Walsh of Cork, Ireland. The UFC FIGHT PASS has a 10:00 p.m. ET / 7:00 p.m. PT start time and may be accessed here >> https://www.ufcfightpass.com/signup

Walsh, (1-0, 1 KO), of Cork, Ireland faces Gael Ibarra, (5-6, 4 KOs), of Sonora, Mexico in a scheduled six-round, junior middleweight clash. Signed to 360 Promotions, Walsh is trained by Freddie Roach at the famed Wild Card Boxing Gym.

Advance Tickets for March 17, 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.

About 360 Promotions:

During 2017, Tom Loeffler founded 360 Promotions to provide rising boxers additional opportunities to develop their talents. 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.

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. 

Social Media

#HollywoodFightNights

#UFCFightPass

Twitter

@UFCFightPass

@360BoxingPromos

@TomLoeffler1

Facebook

@UFCFightPass

@360BoxingPromos

Instagram

@callum_walsh1 

@ufcfightpass

@360BoxingPromotions

@TomLoeffler1

@360BoxingPromotions

Website

www.360Promotions.us

Conor Benn will defend his WBA Continental Welterweight Title against South Africa’s Chris Van Heerden at the AO Arena in Manchester on Saturday April 16, live worldwide on DAZN (excluding New Zealand and Australia).

‘The Destroyer’ (20-0, 13 KOs) secured a stunning knockout win over former World Champion Chris Algieri last time out in December, taking out the American with a brutal right hand in the fourth round of their top of the bill clash at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool.

The 25-year-old contender from Essex holds top ten rankings with the WBA, WBO and IBF after notching three wins during a breakout 2021 – and the British star believes that 2022 will be an even bigger year for him as he works towards a World Title shot.

‘The Heat’ (28-2-1, 12 KOs), born in Johannesburg, South Africa, previously held the IBO Welterweight World Title from 2011 until 2013, beating Kaizer Mabuza, Sebastian Andres Lujan and Matthew Hatton during his Title reign.

Now residing in Santa Monica, California, USA the 34-year-old southpaw is eager to test himself against one of the fastest rising Welterweights in world boxing and should provide valuable rounds having only been stopped once by Errol Spence in 32 fights.

A huge undercard sees Bournemouth’s European Cruiserweight Champion Chris Billam-Smith (14-1, 10 KOs) rematch Belfast’s former champion Tommy McCarthy (18-3, 9 KOs) following their epic back and forth battle at the Matchroom HQ last summer.

‘The Gentleman’ withstood a late fightback from McCarthy as he edged out a narrow split points decision to add the British and European Cruiserweight Titles to his Commonwealth Title, before defending his EBU crown with a points win over Dylan Bregeon in Sheffield.

Manchester Super-Featherweight contender Zelfa Barrett (27-1, 16 KOs) looks to build on his impressive IBF World Title Eliminator win over Australia’s Bruno Tarimo on the Parker vs. Chisora 2 undercard when he challenges European Champion Faroukh Kourbanov (19-3, 3 KOs) – a former opponent of Joe Cordina.

Hard hitting Cruiserweight talent Jordan Thompson (12-0, 10 KOs) has scored two big first round knockouts since putting pen to paper on a promotional deal with Eddie Hearn last June, and the 28-year-old from Manchester will be out to impress his home fans again as he works towards his first Title shot in 2022.

Hyde Lightweight prospect Campbell Hatton (6-0, 2 KOs) quickly returns to action after earning the best win of his career over Joe Ducker last month, Little Lever’s Jack Cullen (20-3-1, 9 KOs) aims to bounce back from his stoppage loss to Kevin Lele Sadjo in December and Alnwick Welterweight Cyrus Pattinson (3-0, 1 KO) hopes to make it two wins from two fights in 2022.

“I’m excited to step into the ring with Chris Van Heerden,” said Benn. “Van Heerden is a tough operator and a southpaw who will be in there giving it his all in every round. For me and my team it’s now about fighting every style that we can face as we continue to head towards World Championship status and Van Heerden brings something different to the table than I’ve not faced before.

“With that being said this is another stepping stone for me on my journey to the top, I haven’t seen anything in Van Heerden’s previous fights that I can’t deal with, and I expect another explosive victory on April 16. If he comes to fight or he wants to box, I can deliver that smoke either way! The AO Arena has to be one of the most exciting venues to fight in. I love Manchester. I get shown a lot of love and support up in Manchester – it’s a fighting city. I bring the entertainment every time I fight and I can’t wait for April 16.”

“Sometimes it takes 10 years for that one year to come around that completely changes your life,” said Van Heerden. “This is my year. I want to thank Conor Benn for taking the fight, knowing that I’m coming to beat him in his backyard. I also want to thank Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing for taking this risk and my manager Peter Kahn for getting this fight done. I am looking forward to putting on a show in Manchester on DAZN.”

“Conor Benn is fast becoming one of the biggest stars in British Boxing and he faces by far the toughest test of his career to date when he takes on Chris Van Heerden in Manchester on April 16,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “Van Heerden has mixed at the very highest level and faced fearsome Welterweight ‘Boots’ Ennis last time out before the fight was ruled a no contest due to a clash of heads – he always comes to fight, and I expect a gruelling battle for Conor. We are building an action-packed card and already announce the rematch of one of the Fight of the Year contender between Chris Billam-Smith and Tommy McCarthy and local star Zelfa Barrett challenges for the European Title. I expect another blistering statement from Conor Benn live worldwide on DAZN.”

“We are excited to welcome back one of the brightest prospects in boxing, Conor Benn, to the platform when he takes on former IBO Welterweight Champion Chris Van Heerden on April 16,” said Ed Breeze, EVP Rights at DAZN. “This is another huge test for Conor as he continues his quest to capture a World Title in 2022. We pride ourselves in having the best schedule in boxing, and with the announce of this matchup in April and early May you will see Canelo Alvarez, Ryan Garcia, GGG, Taylor vs. Serrano and Conor all fighting live on DAZN.”

Tickets are priced £40, £60, £100, £150 and £300 (VIP).

FightPass tickets will be available to purchase for Matchroom Boxing FightPass members from midday on Thursday March 10 via StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk) and Matchroom Boxing (www.matchroomboxing.com)

General Sale tickets will be available to purchase from midday on Friday March 11 via StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk) and the AO Arena (www.ao-arena.com).

LOS ANGELES – BELLATOR MMA has announced its return to the Hawaiian island of Oahu, where Honolulu’s Neal S. Blaisdell Arena will play home to an extremely stacked duo of events on back-to-back nights Friday, April 22 and Saturday, April 23.

Friday night’s BELLATOR 278 will be a special event free for current military, veterans, and first responders. Matchups and additional details for the event will be announced shortly.

Saturday night’s BELLATOR 279 will feature the launch of the highly anticipated one-million-dollar BELLATOR Bantamweight World Grand Prix. The headliner will see current bantamweight world champion Sergio Pettis (22-5) take on No. 3-ranked Raufeon Stots (17-1), while the co-main event features a rematch between the greatest female mixed martial artist of all time, Cris Cyborg (25-2, 1 NC) and Australia’s No. 1-ranked Arlene Blencowe (15-8), who will look to claim gold in her third attempt at a world title.

Saturday’s BELLATOR 279: Pettis vs. Stots / Cyborg vs. Blencowe 2 will air live on SHOWTIME at 4:30 p.m. HST local time, 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT. The preliminary fights will stream live on the BELLATOR MMA YouTube channel, SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and Pluto TV beginning at 2 p.m. HST local time, 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Tickets for Saturday night’s BELLATOR 279: Pettis vs. Stots / Cyborg vs. Blencowe 2 go on sale this Friday, March 11 and can be purchased through Bellator.com, as well as Ticketmaster.com or the Neal S. Blaisdell Arena Box Office. A special presale will take place on Thursday, March 10.

Also scheduled for a return to action, Honolulu’s own former Women’s Flyweight World Champion Ilima-Lei Macfarlane (11-1) will return home to compete against Justine Kish (7-5) as the No. 1 ranked women’s flyweight looks to start her journey back to a world title in the same arena two of the most memorable BELLATOR main events in recent memory took place. Opening the four-fight main card is another BELLATOR Bantamweight World Grand Prix quarterfinal matchup between No. 2-ranked bantamweight Patchy Mix (15-1) and former BELLATOR and Rizin Bantamweight World Champion Kyoji Horiguchi (29-4).

Current BELLATOR Bantamweight World Champion Sergio “The Phenom” Pettis sits at No. 7 on the promotion’s pound-for-pound list. He successfully defended his belt for the first time against former BELLATOR 135-pound titleholder Kyoji Horiguchi with a “knockout of the year” style finish at BELLATOR 272 in December. The hard-hitting Midwesterner out of Milwaukee originally captured the crown by outpointing former champion Juan Archuleta. The younger brother of former UFC lightweight champion Anthony Pettis will be in for one of the toughest fights of his career when he takes on Raufeon Stots. Stots, who used to train alongside Pettis for several years, has been flawless since making his promotion debut in December 2019. He most recently scored a dominant unanimous decision victory over Magomed Magomedov at BELLATOR 264.

Featherweight world champion and top-ranked women’s pound-for-pound fighter Cris “Cyborg” has made three straight title defenses including a second-round submission of Arlene Blencowe in 2020, which surprisingly is the lone submission victory of her storied career. The Brazilian native who currently fights out of Las Vegas, Nev. is a “Grand Slam Champion” having won belts in four different organizations. She sports 20 wins by finish with victories over elite competition including Holly Holm, Leslie Smith (twice), Gina Carano and aims to further her legacy as the greatest women’s mixed martial artist of all time in the rematch versus Blencowe. Australia’s Blencowe is BELLATOR’s No. 6 pound-for-pound female fighter and the No. 1 ranked featherweight. She has won five of her last six fights and earned her shot at the world title rematch with a unanimous decision over Pam Sorenson at BELLATOR 271 in November.

Currently BELLATOR’s No. 2 ranked bantamweight, Patchy Mix recently defeated James Gallagher via submission in his last outing at BELLATOR 270 in Dublin. Mix has made a name for himself in the BELLATOR cage by displaying impressive submissions and his lone professional loss came to former champion Juan Archuleta. He now faces Horiguchi, another former world champion who hails from Takasaki, Japan. The American Top Team prodigy Horiguchi became a simultaneous, two-promotion champion in 2019 after he upset then-BELLATOR champion Darrion Caldwell while also holding the RIZIN Championship. After he was forced to relinquish his BELLATOR title due to an injury, Horiguchi nearly got his hands back on BELLATOR’s title but was stopped by current champion Sergio Pettis in December. The No. 5 ranked bantamweight now aims to get back in the winning column and recapture his belt, along with the million-dollar prize that awaits the winner of the BELLATOR Bantamweight World Grand Prix.           

BELLATOR MMA 279: Pettis vs. Stots / Cyborg vs. Blencowe 2 Main Card:

Saturday, April 23 – live on SHOWTIME

10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT/4:30 p.m. HST (local)

Bantamweight?World Title Bout: C-Sergio Pettis?(22-5) vs. #3-Raufeon Stots (17-1)

Featherweight?World Title Bout: C-Cris “Cyborg”?(25-2, 1 NC) vs. #1-Arlene Blencowe (15-8)

Flyweight Bout: #1-Ilima-Lei Macfarlane (11-1) vs. Justine Kish (7-5)

Bantamweight?World Grand Prix Bout: #2-Patchy Mix (15-1) vs. #5-Kyoji Horiguchi (29-4)

*Card subject to change.

Please visit Bellator.com for additional information.

****

Updated schedule of BELLATOR MMA events

Sat. March 12 // BELLATOR MMA 276: Borics vs. Burnell // The Family Arena // St. Louis

Fri. Apr. 15 // BELLATOR 277: McKee vs. Pitbull 2/Nemkov vs. Anderson // SAP Center // San Jose, Calif.

Fri. April 22 // BELLATOR MMA 278 // Neal S. Blaisdell Arena // Honolulu

Sat. April 23 // BELLATOR MMA 279: Pettis vs. Stots / Cyborg vs. Blencowe 2 // Neal S. Blaisdell Arena // Honolulu

Fri. May 6 // BELLATOR MMA 280: Bader vs. Kongo 2 // Accor Arena // Paris

Fri. May 13 // BELLATOR MMA 281: Amosov vs. MVP // The OVO Arena Wembley // London

About BELLATOR

BELLATOR MMA is a leading global mixed martial arts organization featuring many of the best fighters in the world. Under the direction of veteran fight promoter Scott Coker, BELLATOR events take place in major cities worldwide and can be seen on television in over 160 countries to an available audience of over one billion people. In the United States, BELLATOR can be seen on SHOWTIME. BELLATOR is comprised of an executive team that includes top industry professionals in television production, live event orchestration, fighter development/relations, venue procurement, sponsorship creation/development, international licensing, marketing, advertising, publicity, and commission relations. BELLATOR is based in Hollywood, Calif. and owned by entertainment giant Paramount, home to the world’s premier entertainment brands that connect with audiences through compelling content across television, motion picture, online and mobile platforms.

About SHOWTIME

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.

Rolling on the exciting momentum of two sold-out events there in the past two months, Salita Promotions will return to the Lincoln Ballroom of the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center in Dearborn, MI, on Saturday April 2, 2022, for another fantastic Detroit Brawl event.

In the main event this time will be the return of one of Detroit’s own, as undefeated power-punching lightweight contender Erick De Leon (19-0-1, 11 KOs) will return after nearly three years’ absence from the sport due to injuries to face hard-nosed Mexico City veteran Juan Jose “Piquet” Martinez (28-11, 20 KOs).

In the main supporting bouts will be a pair of world-class contenders, as undefeated former amateur star Timur Kerefov (12-0, 6 KOs) and WBC #9, IBF #15, WBO #14 light heavyweight Ali Izmailov (7-0, 5 KOs) will both make appearances against separate opponents, while undefeated Grand Rapids, Michigan-based former amateur star Joshua “Double J” Pagan (1-0, 1 KO) will appear in four-round special attraction.

Kerefov will take on divisional gatekeeper Cleotis “Mookie” Pendarvis (21-9-2, 9 KOs) in an eight-round showdown. The murderous-punching Izmailov’s, as well as Pagan’s opponents are yet to be announced.

Tickets for “Detroit Brawl” start at $40 and can be purchased by clicking HERE or by calling or visit the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center Box Office (313.943.2354) at 15801 Michigan Ave. in Dearborn on the day of the event. PLEASE NOTE: Tickets ordered online will be placed in will call at the box office for pick-up. A limited quantity of VIP tickets is also available by calling Lina (313.529.7604).

Born in Mexico and raised in Detroit, DeLeon began boxing in the famed Kronk Gym where he developed a strong bond with the late Emanuel Steward. As an amateur, DeLeon (19-0-1, 11 KO) was a three-time national Golden Gloves champion in three different weight classes and a leading contender to make the 2012 USA Olympic Team before a shoulder injury derailed his dream. He elected to turn professional instead in 2012.

Over his past six fights, DeLeon has gone 5-0-1 against opponents with a combined 130-30 record. He followed up his 2018 draw with then 20-0 Andy Vences with two strong performances: a 10-round UD victory over Adrian Yung (25-4-2) and a seventh-round KO over Jose Luis Gallegos (16-5).

Out of action since 2019 because of a series of injuries before the pandemic brought a halt to the sport overall, De Leon says he’s excited to be back in business.

“It feels great being the main event, knowing all my fans will be there cheering me on. I’m excited to showcase my skills, that I’ve worked so hard since a young boy!” said a happy De Leon. “I’m very excited to be coming back, the time off will not stop me from getting a world title for the city of Detroit. I will win, because if my hunger and I want to dedicate this fight to my beautiful cousin Evelyn Garza, who just passed away 2 days ago!

Blessed with excellent hand and foot speed and the fast-twitch reflexes that only come from a lifetime in the sport, Kerefov was a highly decorated amateur boxer, winning several important tournaments and 298 of his 310 unpaid fights. Designated a Master of Sports, he fought at the elite level internationally for nearly a decade.

“I have been training in Florida and learning under the tutelage of Sugarhill Steward,” said Kerefov during a break in training. “I look forward to showcasing my skills and coming one step closer to a world title shot.”

Now working with highly regarded trainer and former champion John David Jackson, Ali Izmailov is a true blue-chip light heavyweight prospect. In his two-year pro boxing career, Izmailov is already world rated and has held the WBO Global Championship. The 28-year-old Izmailov is a former amateur standout, having competed in multiple elite international tournaments. Widely regarded as one of the hardest punchers in the division, Izmailov stands 5? 11½? with a muscular frame, strong punching power, deceptive quickness and a very sturdy defense, Izmailov is a punishing counter puncher with anvil fists who brutalizes opponents into submission.

“I love my activity, staying busy in the ring and learning with trainer John David Jackson,” said an energized Izmailov. “This will be my third fight in seven months. What I learn in the gym, I put to work in the ring. I made my USA debut in Detroit and look forward to backing it up with another impressive performance.”

A smooth boxer with a mean streak, 21-year-old Grand Rapids, Michigan-based 2021 USA National Amateur Welterweight Champion Pagan started boxing at age 13, had approximately 90 fights as an amateur, culminating in winning three State Golden Gloves Championships and the USA national Championships in Shreveport, Louisiana.

“Training is going good,” explained Pagan. “We are currently in Fort Lauderdale about to start a mini camp. We’re hoping to get some great sparring in preparation for our next bout, and we are prepared for the challenge, hard work and dedication it takes.”

Promoter Dmitriy Salita, who’s never made a secret of his mission to revive the sport in The Motor City, says he’s happy to be bringing another world-class show to Detroit for the fans who have gotten behind the series.

“I look forward to another exciting Detroit Brawl event that will feature local, national and international world class talent,” said Dmitriy Salita. “Detroit is America’s Greatest comeback City, and, in due time, I have confidence that this series will produce elite world champions from home and abroad. This will be an exciting show from bell to bell.”

All bouts are subject to change. The Ford Community & Performing Arts Center is located at 15801 Michigan Ave. in Dearborn. On fight night, doors open at 7:00 pm and the action starts at 8:00 pm.
ABOUT THE FORD COMMUNITY & PERFORMING ARTS CENTER:

The mission of the Dearborn Recreation & Parks Department is to help fulfill the social, educational and recreational needs of children, adults and families by providing quality programs and activities in clean and well-maintained facilities and to achieve this through exemplary customer service. For more information, visit their OFFICIAL SITE.

ABOUT SALITA PROMOTIONS:

Salita Promotions was founded in 2010 by Dmitriy Salita, a professional boxer and world-title challenger who saw the need for a promotional entity to feature boxing’s best young prospects and established contenders in North America and around the world. Viewers watching fighters on worldwide television networks including Showtime, HBO, ESPN, Spike TV, Universal Sports Network, UFC Fight Pass, DAZN, ESPN+ and MSG have enjoyed Salita Promotions fight action in recent years. We pride ourselves on offering our fighters opportunities inside and outside the ring. Salita Promotions looks forward to continuing to grow and serve the needs of fight fans around the globe.

Check the Salita Promotions YOUTUBE CHANNEL for regular updates of the modern world’s greatest fighters, contenders and prospects in action.

London, England – (March 9, 2022) – A key clash for the British cruiserweight division will headline the BOXXER Fight Night taking place Saturday, March 26 at OVO Wembley Arena as Richard ‘The Midnight Train’ Riakporhe (13-0, 9 KO’s) faces rising threat Deion Jumah (14-0, 7 KO’s).

Previously scheduled to face different opponents on the March 26 card, the London cruiserweight rivals are now on collision course following the withdrawal of Fabio Turchi and Mikael Lawal due to injuries sustained in training.

Two undefeated records are on the line in this huge clash of cruiserweights in the capital city. More importantly, Riakporhe is on track for world title contention in 2022 – a win here would be a career breakout for Jumah and open the door to big opportunities. 

“The Midnight Train is on a roll and I’m not letting anything stop me in my tracks. I’m pulling into Wembley Arena once again on March 26 and I’m coming with all the smoke. This one is going to be a treat for the fans,” said Riakporhe.

“I’d actually been watching Riakporhe online a couple of weeks ago. We have all the tools needed to pick Richard apart and stop him – and this is what’s happening on the 26th. I’ve seen loads of weaknesses in him and loads of flaws,” said Jumah.

“Fans will see why I’ve been the most avoided fighter on these shores for so long. They will see that some fighters just need their opportunity. They’ll see why I’ve been saying I’m the best cruiserweight in the country for so many years. This is my time now!”

BOXXER Founder and CEO Ben Shalom said, “Richard Riakporhe has shown great progress from fight to fight and he’s on track to secure a world title shot this year. With Turchi pulling out I think it says a lot about his character that he’s willing to take on an unbeaten domestic test like Deion Jumah. It’s a great fight for the fans and it’s a challenge Riakporhe must overcome to achieve his dreams and fulfil his potential.” 

Adam Smith, Head of Boxing Development at Sky Sports, said “Richard Riakporhe is really gathering momentum as he climbs the cruiserweight ladder and now his brilliant story takes a twist. With Fabio Turchi out, in steps the undefeated and dangerous British southpaw Deion Jumah for a really intriguing fight night live on Sky Sports on March 26th.” 

Also announced for the March 26 card today is British Light-Heavyweight Champion Dan Azeez (15-0, 10 KO’s), who will make his first defence of the belt he won by stopping former champion Hosea Burton in November.

Prior to the headline and chief support bouts, Olympic medallist and Team GB captain Frazer Clarke (1-0, 1 KO) takes the next step of his professional journey and looks to pick up his second win when he faces Spanish power-puncher Gabriel Enguema (10-12, 6 KO’s).

Clarke’s fellow Olympian Caroline Dubois (1-0) will join him at Wembley for her second professional contest, having successfully entered the pro ranks with an emphatic win in Cardiff last month.  Younger sister of Daniel Dubois, Caroline won numerous plaudits as a 37-3 amateur and has the potential to become one of the faces of the women’s sport worldwide.

Lightning-fast lightweight Adam Azim (3-0, 2 KO’s) – one of the top prospects in British boxing today – faces Conor Marsden, while his brother Hassan Azim (2-0, 1 KO) – equally highly regarded – has a four-round contest in the welterweight division. 

Former WBO Global Welterweight Champion Chris ‘2 Slick’ Kongo (12-1, 7 KO’s) aims to get back into world title contention this year and signed a multi-fight promotional deal with BOXXER earlier this year in pursuit of that aim.

Trained by renowned coach Ben Davison, who counts Undisputed World Super-Lightweight Champion Josh Taylor among his stable, Kongo will be kicking off his world title campaign on this card. 

Ben Davison will also be in the corner of London heavyweight Jeamie TKV as he makes his professional debut against Luke Batstone. TKV’s highly-decorated amateur career included tenure as the Southern Area Heavyweight Champion and English Heavyweight Champion plus a silver medal at the 2019 African Games.

Southampton’s Joe Pigford (18-0, 17 KO’s) – owner of some of the heaviest hands in British boxing – seeks to add yet another stoppage win to his unbelievable record when he faces Argentina’s Guido Pitto (27-9, 8 KO’s). Pigford presently has 94% of his victories by way of KO or TKO. 

The 18-year-old Team England amateur standout Jimmy Lee – winner of eight national titles and a European gold medal – makes his professional debut in a lightweight contest against Luke Merrifield after ending his amateur career with a 94% win ratio (47-3).

A key clash in the English welterweight division sees Louis Greene (13-2, 7 KO’s) face off with Harry Scarff (10-2, 3 KO’s).

Opening the card will be Anthony Joshua’s female prospect Shannon Ryan. Joshua signed the super-flyweight to his 258 MGMT agency recently and intends to guide her to world champion status in the coming years.

Tickets for this event are on sale now at BOXXER.com

London, England – (March 9, 2021) British Light-Heavyweight Champion ‘Super’ Dan Azeez (15-0, 10 KO’s) has signed an exclusive long-term promotional deal with BOXXER and will defend his title at OVO Wembley Arena on Saturday, March 26, live on Sky Sports.

The undefeated London man will be making his first defence of the belt he won in November with a career-best performance which resulted in a seventh-round stoppage of former champion Hosea Burton.

Having won the Southern Area title and English title in 2019, November’s win entered Azeez into the record books in November as the first British boxer in the light-heavyweight division to have won the trio of domestic titles.

Azeez boxed for Essex University while studying a Finance & Accounting degree and turned professional in 2017 after an exemplary amateur career in which he captured the Haringey Box Cup, Odivelas Box Cup and reached the National Finals of the South of England ABAs.

With 10 of his 15 wins by way of knockout, he has a growing reputation as a boxer who marries a cerebral boxing game with raw power and aggression, capable of boxing tactically or engaging in close-range firefights as required. 

“I’m delighted to be signing with BOXXER and fighting on Sky Sports. I believe I’ve earned my place to showcase my skills on this great platform. I’m looking forward to defending my British title on March 26 as I continue my journey to reach the pinnacle of the sport and become a world champion,” said Azeez.

BOXXER Founder and CEO Ben Shalom said “Dan Azeez has fought the hard way to the top of the pyramid through Southern Area, English and British titles. He is an inspiring personality with a great boxing style. We are delighted to secure his signing after his last outing against Hosea Burton, where he became one of the most talked about light heavyweights in the country.”

Adam Smith, Head of Boxing Development at Sky Sports, said, “We are delighted that Dan Azeez has signed for our flourishing promotional partners at Boxxer and will be joining the March 26 card at Wembley. Dan has a fabulous story and we are really excited about his ascent in the light-heavyweight division!”

BOXXER Fight Night takes place Saturday, March 26 at the OVO Arena Wembley in London and airs live and exclusively on Sky Sports. 

Tickets are on sale now via Boxxer.com

SANTA ANA, CA (March 8, 2022) – Orange County’s rising star, Alexis “Lex” Rocha (18-1, 12 KOs) hosted a media workout today ahead of his fight against Philadelphia’s Blair “The Flair” Cobbs (15-0-1, 10 KOs) on March 19. The 10-round welterweight fight will be featured as the co-main event to Vergil Ortiz, Jr. vs. Michael McKinson at the University of Southern California’s Galen Center in Downtown Los Angeles and will be streamed live, worldwide, on DAZN. Alexis took us on tour of Downtown Santa Ana and then travelled to his gym TKO Boxing Club for a workout where he was joined by his team, his brother world title contender Ronny Rios, and the mayor of the City of Santa Ana, Vicente Sarmiento.

Below is what the fighter had to say about his upcoming fight:

“I am excited for the challenge to face Blair Cobbs. He is an undefeated fighter, I take nothing away from him because he shows a lot of heart in the ring. I have seen him hit the deck, get back up, and win his fight. He’s a good fighter, but I am very motivated to go out there and shine.

“I am not intimated by undefeated record. I put no pressure on myself about that, because last time I put pressure on myself I lost. Since that loss, that 0 went away, and I feel like the pressure got off of me. You put so much pressure on yourself to stay undefeated and really all that pressure can be defeating, mentally.

“He has a unique style; he likes to mix it up. But I feel like I know his weaknesses and his strengths and come fight night, I am ready for whatever.

“I give every training camp 110%. My confidence is through the roof, my training has been incredible, my worth ethic is incredible, the commitment from my team is incredible. And the mind set I carry is one where I know what I want, and I know how to get it. I have dreams, I have desires that I want to go get and I am very motivated.

Tickets for the event are on sale now and are priced at $150, $75, $50 and $25 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase at www.galencenter.org or www.goldenboypromotions.com. Please note that LADPH guidelines and other protocols relating to admission requirements will be in place for this event, which include that all guests aged 2 and older will have to provide proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result within 24 hours for an antigen test or 48 hours for a PCR test.

Ortiz Jr. vs. McKinson is a 12-round fight for the WBO International Welterweight Title presented by Golden Boy in association with Matchroom Boxing. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Saturday, March 19 at Galen Center in Los Angeles, and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #OrtizMcKinson

Philadelphia (March 8, 2022)–A full eight-bout lineup is set for a big night of action that will take place This Saturday night as Hard Hitting Promotions presents a night of championship boxing at Live! Event Center at Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia.

In the mouth watering main event, undefeated Christian Tapia (13-0, 12 KOs) of Coamo, Puerto Rico takes on Luis Lebron (18-2-1, 11 KOs) of San Juan, Puerto Rico in a 10-round showdown for the WBC Super Featherweight Title.

Tapia of Coamo, Puerto Rico, has an impressive record of 13-0 with 12 knockouts. The 27 year-old is a five year veteran who has stopped his last eight adversaries. On July 31, 2021, Tapia won the NABA Super Featherweight title with a 2nd round demolition over former world-ranked contender Mason Menard (36-5). In his last bout, Tapia took out previously undefeated and highly regarded Iron Alvarez (14-0) in the 10th and final round on December 4, 2021 in Atlantic City, New Jersey. In that fight, Tapia dominated the previously undefeated Alvarez, as he was up on all cards with Alvarez barely winning a round, before Tapia ended the fight in the 10th.

Lebron of San Juan, Puerto Rico is 18-2-1 with 11 knockouts. The 28 year-old Lebron is a nine-year veteran has wins over Glenford Nickey (2-0-1), Pedro Marquez Medina (1-0), Joshua Santos (2-0-1), Manuel Botis (23-0-1), Alan Guzman (19-3), Luis Ruiz (9-1) and his last bout when he stopped Frank Diaz (9-0) in the 7th round to win the WBA Fedecento Super Featherweight title on November 20, 2021 in Miami, Florida.

In the eight-round welterweight co-feature, Brandon Pizarro of Philadelphia takes on Vitor Jones Freitas.

Still just 22 years-old, Pizarro has a record of 16-1-1 with nine knockouts. Pizarro turned pro at age 17 and won his first eight-bouts and is unbeaten in his last nine and is coming off a first-round stoppage over DeWayne Wisdom on February 12, 2021 in Orlando, Florida.

Freitas of Salvador, Brazil, has a record 16-6 with 10 knockouts. The 28 year-old Freitas is a 10 year-professional, is the nephew of former two-division and four-time world champion, Acelino “Popo” Freitas. Vitor won his first 13 bout, and is coming off a loss to undefeated Nestor Bravo on December 4th in Atlantic City.

In six-round bouts:

Dezmond Lucas (5-0, 2 KOs) of Bronx, NY takes on Ryan Pino (10-7-2, 5 KOs) of San Juan, Puerto Rico in a welterweight fight.

Jan Carlos Rivera (4-1, 4 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Michael Ogundo (16-13, 13 KOs) of Quincy, Massachusetts in a super lightweight contest.

In four-round bouts:

Jeffrey Villanueva of Allentown, PA makes his pro debut against Juan Gutierrez of Emallie, Nicaragua in a super flyweight bout.

Brandon O’Callaghan (2-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia squabbles with pro debuting Derrick Vann of Philadelphia in a middleweight fight.

Anthony Ramirez (0-1) of Philadelphia takes on Cesar Espinel Maldonado of Arecibo, Puerto Rico in a welterweight bout.

Demek Edmonds (4-0, 3 KOs) of Quincy, Massachusetts tangles with Rafael de Souza (0-1) of Salvador, Brazil in a cruiserweight battle.

Tickets are on sale for $150, $100, $75 and $60 and can be purchased at
https://www.axs.com/events/426183/hard-hitting-boxing-tickets?fbclid=IwAR1nYuwIbH0v0Wi4e_WUelHqjbRmK1FZ-nDJdcbRWCQNqji4_jp2F68FD6c&q=Boxing

The show will be streamed on Facebook Pay-Per-View on the Hard Hitting Promotions Page

PLANT CITY, Florida (March 8, 2022): Following a stacked event in front of a sold-out crowd in February, ProBox Promotions looks to continue its momentum as Mohamed “The Problem” Mimoune (22-4, 3 KOs) battles super lightweight Cesar “Rainman” Francis (9-0, 6 KOs) in a ten-round headline attraction on Friday, March 25.

The card unfolds at the ProBox Events Center in Plant City, Florida. Some of the best ascending talent in the game today will be in the spotlight. Details on which ProBox prospects are gloving up that night, as well as streaming information, will be announced shortly.

Tickets for Mimoune vs. Francis are on sale now, priced at $75, $100, $125, $150, $200 and $250, excluding applicable services charges. Tickets are available for purchase at TicketLeap.com or by clicking here.

Mimoune is a crafty southpaw who fights under the Roy Jones Jr. Promotions banner. His last time out, in February 2020, Mimoune fought for the WBC International super lightweight crown, one of various regional titles the Frenchman fought for since starting his pro career in 2010. The 34-year-old understands he needs to shine in order to get a world title opportunity before time runs out.

“I am in a super-good mindset currently,” said Mimoune. “I’m focused on the fight and determined. I’m looking forward to being in the ring. The only information that I have on my foe is the fact that he’s undefeated so far. If you haven’t seen me, I’m a fighter who gives everything in the ring.”

“I’m looking for a great fight from Mimoune and Francis,” said Jones Jr. “Mohamed has been there for a minute. I’m happy to see him get another opportunity because he’s been robbed a few times. The opponent is a very good opponent. It’s a great fight between two guys. To me, it’s fifty-fifty!”

Francis, a Brooklyn resident from Panama, had a career-best win his last time out. In October 2021, “The Rainman” defeated unbeaten Jose Roman at Barclays Center. The 31-year-old Francis has remained undefeated since turning pro in 2017 and plans to remain so following this step-up faceoff.

“I was gratefully humbled by the opportunity to be in the main event,” said Francis. “You can place me in any slot on any show, and everyone will remember and enjoy my performance. I need challenges. Mimoune is a man with two hands that’s coming to fight, and that’s all I need to know.”

#

Mimoune vs. Francis is a 10-round super lightweight fight presented by ProBox Promotions. The event takes place Friday, March 25 at the ProBox Events Center in Plant City, Florida. Streaming information will be announced shortly.

About ProBox Promotions
ProBox Promotions is a Florida-based company founded by entrepreneur Garry Jonas out of a desire to combine his love of boxing with business marketing to develop a revolutionary way to promote the sport. The company boasts an impressive stable of fighters that includes Erickson Lubin, Najee Lopez, Casey Dixon, Julio Solis, the Valle Brothers Marques and Dominic, and more.

London, England – 8 March 2022 – Top prospect Shannon Ryan will make her professional debut on Saturday 26th March on the BOXXER Fight Night at the OVO Arena Wembley, live and exclusive on Sky Sports.

Managed by former World Heavyweight Champion Anthony Joshua under his banner 258 Management, the Watford hot shot is well versed in combat sports with an extensive career starting in kickboxing when she was five years old, winning multiple international tournaments and culminating in two WAKO titles and recognised as the World’s best at her weight.  Ryan was then given a place on the Team GB Taekwondo squad.

Searching for a new challenge, Ryan then channelled her focus towards using her fists and found boxing where as an amateur she excelled in winning the 2019 Women’s Winter Box Cup and 2018 Alliance Boxing Champion while winning silver at the 2020 London Championships.

Now Ryan is set for professional ranks and the dream of becoming a World Champion.  She will be trained by Gevon Archilbald and will compete in the super-flyweight division.

Ryan said “I am excited to be working with a supportive team (258MGT) that will help me establish myself within the boxing industry, the goal is to inspire and motivate the next generation.”

Ben Shalom, BOXXER founder and CEO, said, “I’m looking forward to seeing Shannon’s pro debut on March 26 and she is another great female talent to watch out for.”

Freddie Cunningham, Managing Director at 258 MGT, said, “Shannon has been working really hard in the background and we are pleased to be able to get her this opportunity on Sky and we are confident she will grab it with both hands.”

PHILADELPHIA, PA (March 7, 2022) – Rising prospect, welterweight VeShawn Champion (2-0, 1 KO), who is advised by the legendary Freeway Rick Ross, will make his 2022 debut against DeAngelo Cunningham (1-2), on March 25, 2022, at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, PA. The scheduled four-round bout is being promoted by Rodney Rice of RDR Promotions.

“It is exciting to be back in action especially under the Team Freeway Boxing banner,” stated VeShawn Champion, who hails from Dayton, Ohio. “I’m excited to be fighting in Philly as I’ve been training here with Jaron “Boots” Ennis for the last couple of weeks. His father and trainer, Bozy Ennis, is also my head coach. Together we’ve been giving each other great sparring and I’m getting better each day. Training with the Ennis family, who are elite, has elevated my game. I’m ready to put forth a great performance and show everyone what I’m about.”

Champion turned heads in his last bout as he stopped undefeated prospect Rashad Killpatrick by way of a third-round technical knockout. The bout was a massive upset by many people’s standards and laid the groundwork for Champion to get strong backing in the sport.

“My last fight showed my heart, and it showed I have what it takes to be what my last name says, a world champion,” continued VeShawn. “Many joke with me that my nickname is ‘world’ champion, and I plan on doing just that, becoming a world champion.”

“We have big plans for VeShawn, and I know he’s in great shape going into this fight,” said Freeway Rick Ross, who advises Champion. “All the great work he’s been getting with “Boots” and his father Bozy has him fully prepared for war. Bozy is an excellent trainer and he’s got VeShawn looking like a monster. Together we are going to bring a lot of attention to this event. We have many fans that will be there to support him.”

ORANGE, CA (March 7, 2022) – Thompson Boxing’s unbeaten lightweight contender, Miguel “El Explosivo” Madueño (27-0, 25 KOs), who is known for his explosive power and exciting fights, now has the chance of a lifetime as he faces former world champion Jezzrel Corrales (25-4, 10 KOs), in WBA lightweight title eliminator. The 12-round bout will take place at the Roberto Duran Arena in Panama City, Panama on March 12, 2022, on a “KO to Drugs” event hosted by the WBA.

The 23-year-old Madueño is looking to change his life forever as a win would put him in line to be a mandatory challenger for the WBA lightweight world champion, which is currently held by George Kambosos Jr. (20-0, 10 KOs), one of the biggest names in the sport.

“I want to thank my promoter Thompson Boxing for guiding my career in such a great way,” said Madueño, who is currently riding a 13-fight knockout streak. “They provided a way to get in me in a position to display my skills to the world. This is my moment, and I will raise to the occasion as I want to be Thompson Boxing’s next great world champion.”

“We have always believed in Miguel since we signed him, and this is what we love doing, putting fighters in the best position possible,” said Ken Thompson, CEO of Thompson Boxing. “Miguel is a true force in the lightweight division, and we are excited about getting him to a point in which the world can watch all of his fights against the top stars of the sport!”

“This is a great opportunity for Madueño, but we can’t overlook the opponent as he is a former world champion and the toughest fighter Miguel has ever faced,” said Alex Camponovo, Thompson Boxing’s general manager. “Madueño’s future could be bright but he has a tough test on the 12th that he must pass and we have all the confidence he is ready for the task.”

Philadelphia (March 7, 2022)–Hard Hitting Promotions has announced the signing of featherweight Avery Sparrow.

Sparrow of Philadelphia, has a record of 11-3 with four knockouts. The 28 year-old Sparrow has been a professional for eight-years and is known for his ability to rise to occasion against top competition.

“We are excited to add Avery to our roster. He is a very talented fighter, and can beat anyone in the 126 and 130 pound divisions. He has shown he is willing to fight anyone, and now with Hard Hitting Promotions behind him, Avery will get put in position to get important and meaningful fights on his way for him to fight for a world title. He is just 28 years-old and despite having just 14 fights, he has a ton of experience and success against high quality opponents,” said Manny Rivera of Hard Hitting Promotions.

“It’s a wonderful experience to sign with Hard Hitting Promotions. They are doing a lot of shows. With me on his roster, and the things that I am trying to accomplish, It is a good fit for the both of us and we can help catapult each other to do major things in the sport. I am looking to get back in the ring sometime in April,” said Sparrow.

Sparrow turned professional on July 29, 2014 with a four-round decision over Antoine knight. Sparrow has gained wins over Anthony Burgin (10-2), Isaelin Florian Henriquez (6-0), Joey Laviolette (6-0), Jose Lopez (19-1) and former world title challenger Hank Lundy (29-7-1). In his last bout, Sparrow stopped Matt Conway (20-2) in 10-rounds to win IBA World and Pennsylvania Super Featherweight titles on January 15th in Conway’s hometown of Pittsburgh.

Sparrow’s next fight will be announced shortly.

Another sold-out crowd of raucous Motown boxing fans showed up for Salita Promotions’ latest Detroit Brawl event last Saturday night (March 5, 2022) and despite a controversial ending to the heavyweight main event, the successful card saw several exciting matchups go down in the Motor City.

Fighting in the Lincoln Ballroom of the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center in Dearborn, MI, heavyweights Robert Simms (11-3-1, 3 KOs) and undefeated New Yorker Moses “ThunderHands” Johnson (8-0, 7 KOs) saw their main event end with controversy, as an accidental foul forced an abrupt end to the bout.

After fighting evenly for the first two rounds, Simms turned his head during the action, just in time to catch two heavy shots from Johnson in the back of the head, unintentionally. After receiving the dangerous foul, Saginaw’s Simms fell to the mat for an extended period and was eventually ruled unable to continue.

Referee Gerard White and the Michigan Commission correctly ruled that because three rounds had not been completed, state rules mandate the fight be ruled a technical draw at 31 seconds of round three.

In the night’s co-main event, super middleweight Winfred “Hot Boy” Harris Jr. (22-1-1, 10 KOs) managed to get by a determined effort and the veteran tricks of proven spoiler Dashon “Fly Boy” Johnson (22-24-3, 7 KOs) and win their fight by unanimous eight-round decision (scores: 79-73, 78-74 and 79-73).

Detroit’s Harris and Riverside, California’s Johnson waged an entertaining battle with Harris getting the better, but Johnson’s toughness and 50 fights worth of guile keeping things interesting throughout.

Both men had their moments in this “closer than the scorecards” affair, with Harris doing the slightly better work.

WBC #10- and IBF #9-ranked super middleweight Vladimir Shishkin put on an impressive performance in his battle against Ecuadorian trialhorse Jeyson “Verdugo” Minda, dropping Minda thrice and eventually notching a TKO victory at the 1:38 mark of the sixth round of a bout scheduled for eight.

With Tyson Fury trainer SugarHill Steward guiding him in the corner, Shishkin looked surprisingly sharp in his return from nearly a year of pandemic-induced inactivity.

Controlling the ring center with authority, Shishkin (13-0, 8 KOs) dropped Minda (14-7-1, 8 KOs) in the fourth with a right, again with a left in the fifth and finally released the finishing barrage that forced him to the floor for the third time and provoked referee Frank Garza to wave off the action.

Heading for bigger things in the near future, Shishkin suffered a minor cut to his right eye, that ruled to have been from an accidental head butt.

Intimidating Super Welterweight crusher Marlon “The Savage” Harrington (7-0, 6 KOs) of Detroit stayed unbeaten by stopping Uruguayan opponent Andres Viera (11-5, 8 KOs) at the 44 second mark of the second round.

With his characteristic savagery, Harrington tore into the outgunned South American and finally dropped him early in the second round. Upon rising, Viera indicated he’d had enough of the stone fists of Harrington, who looks to be headed for better things.

Fan from Dearborn got to enjoy one of their own in action, and super welterweight Husam Al Mashhadi (3-0, 3 KOs) gave them what they came for by stopping opponent, Devin Garrett (0-1) with an extended barrage of unanswered punches that culminated in a stoppage victory for Al Mashhadi at the 53-second mark of the opening round.

In other action, heavyweight Vernon Webber (1-0, 1 KO) won his pro debut by 36-second knockout over a hapless Luke Sills (0-1). Despite the fight’s short duration, Webber scored two knockdowns over Sills before ending the one-sided pummeling.

In the opening bout of the night, unbeaten Detroit middleweight Gordie Russ II (4-0, 4 KOs) easily took out opponent Jarrell Murray (0-4) of Iowa in 58 seconds of the first round.

Promoter Salita, who was hosting his 17th show in the area, says he’s very pleased with the overall event and says he’ll be back again next month for another rocking Detroit Brawl.

“I am grateful we had an exciting night of boxing with an enthusiastic crowd,” said Salita. “As we enter the post COVID era and fans once again can enjoy live boxing, we plan to use the momentum to keep growing world-class professional boxing with the help of the talented boxers, trainers, Detroit gyms and most importantly the fans.”

ABOUT THE FORD COMMUNITY & PERFORMING ARTS CENTER:

The mission of the Dearborn Recreation & Parks Department is to help fulfill the social, educational and recreational needs of children, adults and families by providing quality programs and activities in clean and well-maintained facilities and to achieve this through exemplary customer service. For more information, visit their OFFICIAL SITE.

ABOUT SALITA PROMOTIONS:

Salita Promotions was founded in 2010 by Dmitriy Salita, a professional boxer and world-title challenger who saw the need for a promotional entity to feature boxing’s best young prospects and established contenders in North America and around the world. Viewers watching fighters on worldwide television networks including Showtime, HBO, ESPN, Spike TV, Universal Sports Network, UFC Fight Pass, DAZN, ESPN+ and MSG have enjoyed Salita Promotions fight action in recent years. We pride ourselves on offering our fighters opportunities inside and outside the ring. Salita Promotions looks forward to continuing to grow and serve the needs of fight fans around the globe.

Check the Salita Promotions YOUTUBE CHANNEL for regular updates of the modern world’s greatest fighters, contenders and prospects in action.

NEW YORK (March 7, 2022) – Split-T Management fighters were impressive with four big victories over the weekend.

On Friday night, junior welterweight Rolando Vargas scored an explosive stoppage over Jerrell Hodge in Columbus, Ohio.

Vargas buckled Hodge with a big left hook. Vargas followed up with a booming right that put Hodge down and out and the fight was stopped.

With the win, Vargas, a Milwaukee native improves to 7-1 with seven knockouts.

WATCH VARGAS KNOCKOUT
Rolando Vargas 1st round stoppage over Jerrell Hodge

Javier Martinez remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Donte Stubbs in a middleweight bout.

In round two, Stubbs began to bleed from his nose. In round three, Stubbs dropped Martinez with a straight right. But that was the only blemish for the 26 year-old Martinez as he used his superior boxing skills to repeatedly land solid punches throughout the contest.

Martinez, 161.8 lbs of Milwaukee, WI won by scores of 59-56 and 58-55 twice and is now 6-0. Stubbs, 163 lbs of Riverside, CA is 6-4.

Martinez is a former United States National Ama

6’9? Antonio Mireles remained perfect as he stopped previously undefeated Brandon Hughes in round two of their scheduled four-round heavyweight bout.

In round one, Mireles landed a perfect jab-straight left that sent Hughes down on his face. Moments later it was another straight left that put Hughes down just before the end of the round. In round two, Mireles landed a big left hand that hurt Hughes and the fight was stopped just as Hughes hit the canvas at 1:04.

Mireles, 259.4 lbs of Des Moines, IA is 3-0 with three knockouts. Hughes, 282.4 lbs of Phoenix, AZ is 2-1
Diego Pacheco remained undefeated with a 2nd round stoppage over Genc Pllana in a scheduled eight-round super middleweight bout.

Pacheco, 170 lbs of Los Angeles is 14-0 with 11 knockouts. Pllana, 171 lbs of Hagerstown, MD is 9-4-1.