January 4, 2022 – Probellum is delighted to announce the promotional signing of two-weight world champion, Dina Thorslund.

The undefeated Dane (17- 0, 7 knockouts) becomes the latest fighter to join Probellum’s fast-growing stable of boxers, and she arrives with a proven pedigree at the highest level. Thorslund recently retained the WBO bantamweight title, which she initially won in June, courtesy of an impressive seventh-round stoppage of Zulina Munoz.

She has also held the WBO super-bantamweight title since defeating Jessica Arreguín in 2018.

Thorslund made her professional debut in 2015, securing victory via a first-round TKO against Petra Podráská, and since then she is yet to experience defeat.

Since launching in September, Probellum has signed a number of top-quality fighters to its elite roster, including Regis Prograis, Nonito Donaire, Donnie Nietes, Lee McGregor, Eimantas Stanionis, Arthur Biyarslanov, Taras Shelestyuk, Ricky Burns, Paul Butler, Lewis Ritson, Muhammad Waseem, O’Shaquie Foster, Hovhannes Bachkov, Darius Fulghum, Eduardo Hernandez, Mark Dickinson, Brandon Moore, Jack Bowen and Jason Mallia.

Probellum has also secured co-promotional agreements with Wasserman Boxing, Universum in Germany, Groupe Yvon Michel in Canada, Maravillabox Promotions in Spain, Kynoch Boxing in Scotland, Mitchell Sports Promotions in England, LNK Boxing in Latvia, Titov Boxing in Russia, Glozier Boxing in New Zealand, Cuadrilatero Boxing in Colombia, PR Best Boxing in Puerto Rico, BXSTRS Promotions in Mexico, Shuan Boxing Promotions in the Dominican Republic, Bufalo Boxing in Nicaragua, Team Ellis Boxing in Australia, Moron Boxing in Venezuela, Volcano Boxing in El Salvador, Armin Tan Promotions in Indonesia, and Box Office Sports in Ghana.

“I’m hugely excited to take this next step in my career,” said Thorslund.
“Probellum has made a major impact in a short space of time, and I’m really looking forward to working closely alongside their talented team as I strive to achieve further success.”

“Dina’s career to date speaks for itself,” added Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum. “An undefeated two-weight world champion with a massive future ahead of her, we are delighted to make Dina the newest member of the Probellum family, and we look forward to what will undoubtedly be an exciting journey.”

For live news and updates, be sure to follow Probellum on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

January 4, 2022 – Probellum is delighted to announce the promotional signing of British boxer, Will Cawley.

Having only turned professional in 2021, the Oldham-born bantamweight (1-0) becomes the latest addition to Probellum’s fast-growing, and hugely impressive, roster.

A former member of Team GB, Cawley enjoyed a successful career at amateur level where he won four national titles, including the 2016 ABA Championship, while also picking up both silver and bronze medals on the European stage.

Cawley won his maiden professional bout by overcoming Stephen Jackson on points in Sheffield in November.

Following its launch, Probellum has already signed a number of elite-level fighters, including Pat and Luke McCormack, Troy Williamson, Regis Prograis, Nonito Donaire, Donnie Nietes, Lee McGregor, Eimantas Stanionis, Arthur Biyarslanov, Noel Mikaelian, Taras Shelestyuk, Ricky Burns, Paul Butler, Lewis Ritson, Muhammad Waseem, O’Shaquie Foster, Hovhannes Bachkov, Darius Fulghum, Eduardo Hernandez, Mark Dickinson, Brandon Moore, Jack Bowen, Jason Mallia and Hebert Sousa.

Probellum has also secured co-promotional agreements with Wasserman Boxing, Universum in Germany, Groupe Yvon Michel in Canada, Maravillabox Promotions in Spain, Kynoch Boxing in Scotland, Mitchell Sports Promotions in England, LNK Boxing in Latvia, Titov Boxing in Russia, Glozier Boxing in New Zealand, Cuadrilatero Boxing in Colombia, PR Best Boxing in Puerto Rico, BXSTRS Promotions in Mexico, Shuan Boxing Promotions in the Dominican Republic, Bufalo Boxing in Nicaragua, Team Ellis Boxing in Australia, Moron Boxing in Venezuela, Volcano Boxing in El Salvador, Armin Tan Promotions in Indonesia, and Box Office Sports in Ghana.

Probellum held its first event at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena last month with a top-quality card featuring the likes of Sunny Edwards, Jayson Mama, Donnie Nietes, Bakhodir Jalolov and Jono Carroll, while legendary ring announcer Michael Buffer was master of ceremonies on the night.

“I’m delighted to take this next step in my career with Probellum,” said Cawley.

“This is a really exciting time and I firmly believe that under the guidance of Probellum, I can go on to achieve great success.

“In a short period, Probellum has already signed some of the world’s best fighters, and I’m extremely happy to become a part of the team.”

“Will is a hugely talented fighter and we are very happy to welcome him to our stable,” added Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum.

“We believe 2022 is going to be a big year for Will, and we now look forward to watching him develop and showcase his unquestionable talent to boxing fans around the world.”

For live news and updates, be sure to follow Probellum on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

Verona, New York (January 3, 2022)

Star Boxing is pleased to announce an NABA Gold Cruiserweight Title bout addition to the Joe Smith Jr. vs Callum Johnson undercard on January 15 at Turning Stone.

25-year-old Pittsburgh based Ukrainian, LYUBOMYR “THE DEMOLITION MAN” PINCHUK (13-2-1 8KO’s) is set to challenge for the vacant NABA Gold Cruiserweight Title against Virginia product JOSE MARIO “BAZOOKA” FLORES (8-2-2 4KO’s) in a 10-round title bout. Pinchuk was most notably seen on Ring City USA against rising undefeated American heavyweight STEPHAN “BIG SHOT” SHAW (15-0 11KO’S). Pinchuk moved up to heavyweight for the bout and brought the fight to Shaw over a tough 8-rounds. While falling short, Pinchuk used this opportunity as a learning experience and would return to his natural cruiserweight division in dominating fashion, just months later, with a TKO victory over Andrew Satterfield in his hometown of Pittsburgh.

“I’m very excited to be back to the ring” said Pinchuk. “Especially starting 2022 with a fight in the cruiserweight division, on such a big world title card. Thank you to everyone who was with me and supporting me during this whole time. Can’t wait for what the remainder of the year holds for us!”

“Lyubo has no fear” said Pinchuk’s trainer Mike McSorley, owner of The Conn-Greb Boxing Club in Pittsburgh, PA. “He’s never turned down a fight since turning pro. Not one. He has no sense of entitlement; he is always on time and gives 100%. He is back where he belongs at cruiserweight and he can beat anyone in the division right now.”

Jose Mario “Bazooka” Flores resides in Woodbridge, Virginia and has never shied away from a challenge. The eleven-year professional had his marquee moment when he upset undefeated ARMANDO PINA (then 16-0 11KO’s) in Indiana. Flores would return a few months later for the first time in New York where he would drop a close decision to undefeated JOSEPH “MACK WILLIAMS (then 12-0 8KO’s).

The action will prelude the highly anticipated main event between the “Common Man,” JOE SMITH JR. (27-3 21KO’s), in his first WBO World Championship defense against power punching, UK based light heavyweight, CALLUM JOHNSON (20-1 14KO’s).

Star Boxing CEO JOE DEGUARDIA had this to say about Pinchuk-Flores, “We are very excited to secure this opportunity on a card of this magnitude for Lyubomyr to showcase his abilities. He is extremely tough and entertaining fighter who is back at his natural weight. Fans are in for a treat on January 15, first with Lyubomyr on the undercard and certainly when Joe Smith Jr. makes his first world title defense in the main event.”

SMITH-JOHNSON and PINCHUK-FLORES are promoted by Top Rank in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing. Follow the action on social media by using #SmithJohnson and #PinchukFlores.

FRESNO, Calif. (Jan. 3, 2022) — Joet Gonzalez, the Southern California featherweight contender who has twice challenged for a world title, is primed for another run at the brass ring. Gonzalez signed a multi-year promotional contract with Top Rank and will return in a 10-round bout against Filipino former world title challenger Jeo Santisima on Saturday, Feb. 5 at Save Mart Center in Fresno, California.

Gonzalez-Santisima will serve as the co-feature to the 12-round junior welterweight showdown between former unified champion Jose Ramirez and Puerto Rican two-weight world champion Jose “Sniper” Pedraza.

Ramirez-Pedraza, Gonzalez-Santisima, the heavyweight professional debut of U.S. Olympic silver medalist Richard Torrez Jr., and undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively in the United States on ESPN+. 

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets starting at $36 are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com.

“Joet Gonzalez is a fighter of tremendous character and one of the best featherweights in the world. When he became available, it was a no-brainer,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. 

“My last three fights have been on Top Rank cards, and they’ve always treated me with respect. I can’t wait for my official debut under the Top Rank banner,” Gonzalez said. “Jeo is a tough Filipino warrior, and this is a great opportunity to prove I belong in the featherweight title conversation. I want another title shot, and it all starts with an impressive showing in Fresno.”

Gonzalez (24-2, 14 KOs), from Glendora, California, is ranked in the top 10 at featherweight by two sanctioning organizations. He received his first world title shot in October 2019, dropping a unanimous decision to Shakur Stevenson for the vacant WBO featherweight title. Nearly two years later, he challenged Emanuel Navarrete for the same belt, and the two combined for a Fight of the Year contender. While Gonzalez lost a unanimous decision, he proved his mettle as one of the division’s most formidable contenders. He bested Miguel Marriaga over 10 rounds on a Top Rank on ESPN card in between the Stevenson and Navarrete fights.

Santisima (21-3, 18 KOs), from Aroroy, Philippines, lost two of his first four pro bouts before a 17-fight winning streak earned him a shot at Navarrete in February 2020 for the WBO junior featherweight world title. In a high-profile setting on the Tyson Fury-Deontay Wilder II undercard, Santisima acquitted himself well, ultimately falling via 11th-round TKO. He has won two straight by knockout in his home country since the Navarrete defeat.

About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 17.1 million subscribers.

Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $6.99 a month (or $69.99 per year)
at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices). It is also available as part of The Disney Bundle that gives subscribers access to Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu for $13.99/month (Hulu w/ads) or $19.99/month (Hulu w/o ads).

January 3, 2022 – Tickets are on sale now for “The Rumble at Caribe Royale”, a historic night of world-class professional boxing on Friday, January 7, from Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida and televised live on Showtime (9 p.m. ET/PT).

In the night’s main event, the Dominican Republic’s Luis Nunez (15-0, 11 KOs), battles Carlos Arrieta (14-0, 8 KOs) of Puerto Rico in a 10-round featherweight main event. The co-feature pits hard-hitting Starling Castillo (16-0, 12 KOs) against Otar Eranosyan (10-0, 6 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight bout. And in the televised opener, knockout artist Edwin De Los Santos (13-0, 12 KOs) battles William Foster III (13-0, 9 KOs) in an eight-round super featherweight fight.

To purchase tickets for “The Rumble at Caribe Royale” visit the TICKET LINK on their OFFICIAL SITE. Tickets (you must be 18+) start at $45 for a General Admission seat. VIP Ringside (first row) Seats are available for $150. VIP Ringside Tables are also available for $1,500.00, which includes 10 Seats, Bottle of Champagne and Appetizers with Tableside Cocktail Service Available.

The six fighters appearing in televised bouts boast a combined record of 80-0 and 57 knockouts, which marks the first time ShoBox has featured a tripleheader in which all six fighters enter fight night without a loss in the 20-plus year history of the prospect series.

Several local and international prospects highlight the undercard, including one of the hardest punchers in all of boxing, Ali Izmailov (6-0, 4 KOs) of Malgobek, Russia, taking on the always tough transplanted Panamanian Israel Duffus (20-7, 17 KOs) in an eight-round light heavyweight battle.

Also scheduled for action is New Haven, CT’s Elvis Figueroa (9-0, 6 KOs) taking on Saint Louis’ Ryan Adams (8-3-1, 6 KOs) in an eight-round super middleweight bout. In an eight-round super lightweight scrap, Queens, New York’s Shinard Bunch (17-1-1, 15 KOs) will face Kazakhstan’s Shyngyskhan Tazhibay (9-0, 2 KOs) over eight super lightweight rounds; while San Diego lightweight Robert Ramirez (24-3-1, 17 KOs) will take on Colombia’s Rodolfo Puentes (20-8-2, 16 KOs) in an eight-rounder.

And in the night’s opening six-round super welterweight bout, Orlando’s own undefeated Derrick Jackson (5-0, 2 KOs) will look to stay unbeaten against also undefeated Mike Plazola (2-0, 1 KO) from Waterloo, Iowa.

“The Rumble at Caribe Royale” is promoted by Sampson Boxing.

All ticket sales are final. No refunds will be issued. On fight night, doors open at 6 pm. Action begins at 7 pm. The Caribe Royale Resort is located at 8101 World Center Drive in Orlando, Florida. For more information, visit their OFFICIAL SITE or call 407.238.8000.

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For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports

About ShoBox: The New Generation
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 85 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

About Caribe Royale Orlando
Located just minutes from the Walt Disney World® Resort in the nation’s number one convention and tourist destination, Caribe Royale Orlando is the only AAA Four Diamond all-suite meetings resort in Orlando. A TripAdvisor 2021 Travelers’ Choice Award winner – among just 10 percent of hotels worldwide to receive the distinction – the upscale Caribe Royale is emerging from a $127 million renovation that includes fully remodeling all of its one-bedroom suites, an all-new 50,000-square-foot grand ballroom (bringing the total meeting space to 220,000 square feet), and an inviting new lobby. Being privately-owned, Caribe Royale offers meeting planners faster approval cycles and more flexibility to create stand-out events. To learn more or to book a visit, event or meeting, visit www.cariberoyale.com. Follow the all-suite convention hotel on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (@cariberoyale), LinkedIn and Pinterest. #cariberoyaleorlando.

Los Angeles, CA (January 3, 2022) – One of boxing’s newest promotional outfits, Shapiro Sports had a breakout month as a handful of it’s world-class boxer’s put on dynamic performances.

On December 11th, Marlon Tapales (35-3, 18 KOs) won the IBF Super Bantamweight Title Eliminator at the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California .

Tapales scored an explosive 2nd round stoppage of tough Japanese title challenger Hiroaki Teshigawara (22-2). With the win, Tapales of the Philippines is now in position to become the mandatory challenger for IBF/WBA world champion Murodjon Akhmadaliev.

On Christmas day, highly touted Cuban prospect Yoelvis “La Joya” Gomez (5-0 5 KO’s) made an emphatic American debut with an emphatic 1st round stoppage over former Top Rank Bubble darling, Clay Collard. The bout was seen on a telecast that was viewed by 2.3 million viewers on FOX.

Gomez, the son of former Cuban Olympic Gold Medalist Jose Gomez, destroyed Clay Collard (9-5-3) in 1 round. Collard is known to many boxing fans for upsetting three previous undefeated prospects. Collard had never been stopped before at 154 lbs, and was expected to give the undefeated Gomez a tough test, the impressive Gomez landed thudding power shots that hurt Collard repeatedly and forced the fight to be stopped in the opening frame.

This past Saturday night in Hollywood, Florida, Shapiro Sports undefeated heavyweight prospects faced off as Cuban’s, Lenier Pero & Geovany Bruzon, matched up in an entertaining slugfest that saw Pero pound out a very competitive eight-round unanimous decision against his countryman Bruzon.
The fight was televised live on the FOX Prelims to the Luis Ortiz – Charles Martin Pay-Per-View Card.

“This is by far the best group of fighters that I have worked with in my eight years in boxing. All of these fighters had statement performances that will position themselves to capitalize on great opportunities in 2022 and the future. Marlon Tapales came off of a two-year layoff to make a world class Japanese fighter look very ordinary, and position himself for the world title in early 2022. Yoelvis Gomez stole the Christmas Day show like the Grinch, and he became a name to watch for many boxing fans. Llastly, Lenier Pero and Geovany Bruzon both showed that they will be major players in the heavyweight division for years to come. 2022 will be a great year for all of my fighters,” said Shane Shapiro, CEO of Shapiro Sports.

Shapiro Sports co-promotes Gomez, Pero and Bruzon with Warriors Boxing and Boxing Major League.

Tapales is co-promoted with Viva Promotions and MP Promotions.

In addition to Tapales, Gomez, Pero and Bruzon, Shapiro Sports promotes or co-promotes: featherweight Jhack Tepora (23-1, 17 KOs), super lightweight Abram Martinez (9-0-1, 7 KOs), middleweight Landry Kore (11-1-1, 6 KOs), lightweight Fradimil Macayo (15-1, 13 KOs), super lightweight Joniker Tovar (20-0-1, 15 KOs), and bantamweight Dervin Rodriguez (8-0-1, 8 KOs).

LAS VEGAS (Jan. 3, 2022) — Dante “Free Smoke” Benjamin Jr., the Cleveland-born light heavyweight star who won seven national titles as an amateur, has signed a multi-year promotional contract with Top Rank. The 19-year-old will make his professional debut in a four-round bout Saturday, Jan. 29 on the Robson Conceição-Xavier Martinez undercard in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Benjamin is the latest young talent from Cleveland to sign with Top Rank, joining 17-year-old lightweight Abdullah Mason (1-0, 1 KO) and welterweight U.S. Olympian Tiger Johnson (1-0, 1 KO).

“Dante Benjamin Jr. has the makeup and the amateur pedigree to be a tremendous professional,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Cleveland has produced some of our nation’s top emerging fighters, and I look forward to Dante, Tiger and Abdullah bringing big-time boxing to their city for years come.”

“I’m going to take advantage of this opportunity. Being a professional boxer at the highest level is something I’ve wanted to do since I was a kid,” Benjamin said. “I’m living out one of my dreams, and I am driven to win a world title. I’m proud to represent my city. I’m hungry to be great, and that’s why I bust my butt in the gym every day.”

Benjamin starred for USA Boxing, notching more than 100 amateur victories and winning gold at the 2016 and 2017 Junior Open Championships, 2018 Youth National Championships, and the 2019 Emil Jechev Memorial Tournament in Botevgrad, Bulgaria. He first walked into an East Cleveland boxing gym at the age of 7, where he met noted trainer Renard Safo. More than a decade later, Safo is still Benjamin’s head trainer.

Benjamin embarks on his professional journey with a heavy heart. His father, Dante Benjamin Sr., battled kidney disease for a decade before passing away last March at 49. It was Benjamin Sr. who brought his son to Safo’s gym and encouraged him to continue after early struggles in sparring. Benjamin won his first Silver Gloves title roughly one year after picking up the gloves.

Benjamin said, “My father taught me how to work. He got me into boxing, and when times got hard, he still took me to the gym every day. Before he passed away, we talked about me turning pro. If he was still here, I know he’d be proud of me.”

QUINCY, Mass. (January 3, 2022) – Granite Chin Promotions has announced its first event of 2022, “Showcase,” scheduled on Saturday night, February 26th, at Sheraton Hotel in Framingham, Massachusetts.

“Showcase” will mark Granite Chin’s first event in Massachusetts in more than 2 years, as well as being only the second professional boxing show ever in Framingham, which is located 23 miles west of Boston.

“I am excited to be coming back to Massachusetts,” Granite Chin president Chris Traietti said. “Between changes occurring with the commission, then COVID, I just felt like it was a good time to step away for a bit, head up to New Hampshire and let things sort of settle in Massachusetts. Now that things are sort of back to normal, I feel like the time is right to bring our great club-show boxing back to Massachusetts. This card is going to be highly competitive from top to bottom. I have the roster now where I can both develop fighters and put on high quality local shows. 2020 was about making good relationships with other promoters and matchmakers; 2021 about developing a quality roster and keeping guys busy during a pandemic. 2022 is going to be geared towards becoming the face of quality local boxing shows and getting Granite Chin fighters on high-level, world-class cards all across the country.”

The 8-round main event will pit local favorite Nelson “Chino” Perez (5-0, 2 KOs) against New Jersey veteran super lightweight Tyrone “Hands of Stone” Luckey (15-16-4, 11 KOs).

Perez is a native of Puerto Rico who lives in Marlboro (MA), which borders Framingham. A past New England Golden Gloves champion as an amateur, Perez is coming off a dominating 4-round unanimous decision victory (40-34 X 3) December 4th against Raymundo Rios Cardies on a DAZN card in Manchester, New Hampshire. Perez will be fighting in his first scheduled 8-round bout.

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Perez (L) headlined the first pro boxing event in Framingham this past Oct 16th

(picture courtesy of Emily Harney/Fightography)

Luckey, fighting out of Manahawkin, NJ, is the reigning ABF USA Mid-American Super Lightweight Champion. The dangerous Luckey has been a gatekeeper of lightweight up to welterweight divisions having fought top prospects such as Mike Ohan, Jr. Jamaine Ortiz, Tyler Tomlin, and Frank Martin. Luckey has recent back-to-back victories against previously unbeaten Eduardo Aquilar.

Tyrone Luckey.jpg
Tyrone Luckey

Hot welterweight prospect Denzel “Double Impact” Whitley (7-0, 5 KOs), of Holyoke (MA), faces Alfred “Keenan” Raymond (1-0) in the 6-round co-featured event.

Denzel, the latest member of the “Fightin’ Whitley family,” is trained by his father and uncle, respectively, Derrick and Darrin, who were respected pro fighters in New England.

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Whitley (L) is well positioned for a breakout 2022

(pictures courtesy of Emily Harney/Fightography)

Fighting out of Warwick, Rhode Island, the 31-year-old Raymond made his pro debut this past November 13th, upsetting previously undefeated Julien Baptiste (3-0) by way of a 4-round split decision.

Additional bouts will be announced soon. Card subject to change.

Tickets will soon be available for purchase at www.TicketRiver.com (Search: SHOWCASE). Ticket prices are $50.00 (General Seating), $75.00 (Ringside), and $1,000.00 for a table of 10.

Doors open at 7:00 pm. ET with the first bout at 7:00 p.m. ET.

INFORMATION:

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

Twitter: @Granite_Chin, @flymikemarshall

New York (January 2, 2021) – One year ago, a collective sigh of relief could be heard across the globe as the year changed from 2020 to 2021. At the change of a number, hope began to amass amongst the public that a COVID riddled world would finally be put behind us, and normalcy would be restored. While safety measures were put in place, and fight bubbles continued to serve its purpose, the world finally got back to boxing.

The year was scheduled to start off with a bang, as the “Common Man,” Long Island light heavyweight hero, JOE SMITH JR. (27-3 21KO’s) prepared for his second crack at world title glory, against crafty Russian veteran MAXIM VLASOV in mid-February at the MGM in Las Vegas on ESPN. Unfortunately, a stern reminder of the realties of COVID postponed the fight when Vlasov tested positive just two days before the world title fight. Like the resilient working man that he is, Smith Jr. would not be deterred. A change of date and venue saw the fight moved to Tulsa Oklahoma (April 10), but the goal and result remained the same. In a thrilling 12-round fight, Smith Jr. strapped his boots a bit tighter, bit down hard in the championship rounds, and gutted out the victory by majority decision to win the WBO World Light Heavyweight World Championship.
Joe Smith Jr. will start off Star Boxing’s 2022 in his first world title defense against fellow light heavyweight banger, by way of the United Kingdom, CALLUM JOHNSON (20-1 14KO’s) on January 15 at Turning Stone Resort Casino, LIVE on ESPN.

Through the uncertainty, Hall of Fame promoter Joe DeGuardia remained steadfast, finding high level opportunities for the vast and talented Star Boxing stable after the Joe Smith Jr. World Championship victory, Upset minded heavyweight CARLOS TAKAM (39-6-1 28KO’s) would board a flight in late July and cross the Atlantic Ocean into enemy territory to take on #1 heavyweight contender JOE JOYCE in London. Takam brought the fight to Joyce over the first five-rounds, landing an overhand right that seemed to never miss its target. The uneasy tension of the UK crowd could be felt as Takam barreled on, winning on all judge’s scorecards. In the sixth-round, Joyce landed a stiff combination unsteadying the former Cameroon Olympian, who maintained a defense during the onslaught, deflecting much of the Joyce attack. Controversary ensured as the referee jumped in, stopping the fight, much to the distain of Takam who immediately protested. As a result of the stoppage, Joyce got the TKO-6 victory, but Takam once again validated his reputation in the boxing world.
Star Boxing’s critically acclaimed “Rockin’ Fights” series came back from a 19-month COVID hiatus to a triumphant return to The Paramount in Huntington New York for two shows in 2021. Rockin’ Fights 39 took place on September 4th and Rockin’ Fights 40 followed on November 11th.

At November’s Rockin’ Fights 40, recently signed Current IBO World Super Featherweight Champion, Italian, MICHAEL “LONE WOLF” MAGNESI (20-0 12KO’s) got right to work making his US debut against EUGENE LAGOS in the main event of “Rockin’ Fights 40”, resiliently getting off of the deck in the first round to clobber Lagos with a perfect right hand to the body, then to the head, reminding fans of former World Champ Arturo Gatti. Magnesi awed the crowd in an inspiring third-round TKO victory, planting his Italian flag in the US as a real force at 130 lbs.

Undefeated super lightweight and Paramount grown ALEX “EL TORO” VARGAS (12-0 4KO’s) appeared on both of Star Boxing’s 2021 Paramount shows, showcasing his talents in front of his hometown fanbase, picking up two unanimous decision victories.
2021 also saw Author, ringside analyst and former WBO World Champion, CHRIS ALGIERI (25-4 9KO’s) return to the ring for the first time after two years of pandemic hiatus in August to co-feature on the TrillerVerz card at the Hulu Theatre at MSG. Algieri took Brooklynite MIKEL LESSPIERRE to school over ten-rounds earning a wide-spread unanimous decision. Parlaying this domination, Algieri took his chances in Liverpool England (December 11) against undefeated rising welterweight prospect, CONOR BENN. After a tense three rounds, with Algieri up against the ropes, Benn connected with a crisp and brutal one two combination in the fourth immediately ending the fight.

The fourth quarter of 2021 proved extremely busy as Star Boxing’s talent was once again on display on Triller. Star Boxing rolled into the Barclays Center in Brooklyn with both the main event and co-feature of another boxing/music combined event. The main event featured the return of knockout artist and NABA Super Lightweight Champion, CLETUS “THE HEBREW HAMMER” SELDIN (26-1 22KO’s) against stablemate WILLIAM SILVA (28-4 16KO’s). The North American title fight lived up to the hype as Seldin and Silva went to battle over six fan friendly rounds that had fans on the edge of their seats. Early in the seventh Seldin landed his quintessential missile overhand right that sent Silva to the canvas where he would remain for several minutes, before thankfully getting to his feet. The seventh round KO victory put Seldin back on the map at 140 lbs. and is now currently world rated #8 by the WBA and #14 by the IBF.

In the co-feature bout, Queens native DANNY “EL GALLO” GONZALEZ (20-3-1 7KO’s) would take on PETROS ANANYAN for the vacant WBA Continental America’s Title over ten-rounds. After a slow start Gonzalez came on heavy in the back half of the fight, overcoming a gash on his forehead that left the ring, Danny himself, and everyone involved a bloody mess. The bloody battle was riveting and sensational. The gash would cause Gonzalez to need 25 stitches in his face post fight. Gonzalez fell just short in the fight by a razor thin close majority decision but earned the respect of boxing fans everywhere for his performance.

WBC Continental America’s Cruiserweight Champion, SIMONE “TYSON” FEDERICI (18-2-1 8KO’s) improved with a points decision in his native Italy in March and was set to defend his title against Massachusetts product, Vincenzo Carita, until Carita broke a rib in training and the fight was postponed. Be on the lookout for this fight in early 2022.

Star Boxing was pleased to add alongside its 2021 signings of Vargas and Magnesi, Iraqi born Kurd, BADIEN “BAD MAN” HASSO (19-0 10KO’s) who will be campaigning at Middleweight.

2021 also saw many of Star Boxing’s prospects and contenders continue their rise up the ratings. After picking up a TKO victory in Kentucky earlier in the year, undefeated Ukrainian Super Bantamweight OLEH “UKRAINIAN PITBULL” DOVHUN (13-0 5KO’s) defeated Glenn Dezurn in Pittsburgh this past November, to win the NABA Super Bantamweight Title. With the victory Dovhun is now rated #6 in the world by the WBA.

In May, fellow Pittsburgh based Ukrainian, LYUBOMYR “THE DEMOLITION MAN” PINCHUK (13-2-1 8KO’s) returned to his natural cruiserweight division and dominated Andrew Satterfield for a first round TKO victory.

Undefeated French Super Welterweight DAVID PAPOT defeated Evgeny Terentiev for the IBA World Title, and at the close of the year, is world rated #6 by the WBO, and #10 by the WBA.

?Belgium based Bridgerweight, JOEL DJEKO jumped to heavyweight and took his shot at French Olympian TONY YOKA in Yoka’s backyard. Djeko made a great account for himself, getting late into the 12th, but Yoka proved to be too much coming away with the victory. Djeko will be campaigning in the WBC’s Bridgerweight division and is world rated #4 by the WBC’s new weight class.

Undefeated Light Heavyweight prospect RICHIE “POPEYE THE SAILOR MAN” RIVERA (21-0 16KO’s) picked up three wins in 2021, traveling to Orlando, Massachusetts, and Colombia in the process.

?Highly touted Irish prospects, “SUPERFLY” TONY BROWNE hit the road 6 times in 2021, finishing the year with a record of 5-1 1KO, and “THE SILENT ASSASIN” RYAN O’ROURKE continued his unbeaten streak with another three victories, improving to 8-0 1KO.

Undefeated Moldovan born, Irish based prospect VICTOR “SLICK VIC” RABEI improved to 11-0 4KO’s before being sidelined by injury and will look to bounce back in 2022.

Danbury super lightweight, OMAR “THE BEAST” BORDOY(11-1 3KO’s) added a victory to his record with a wide unanimous decision in Derry New Hampshire.
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23-year-old Dominican banger SANDERSON DIAZ (14-0 11KO’s) notched two additional second-round KO’s to his record in 2021, and looks to make landfall in the US in 2022.

Star Boxing CEO JOE DEGUARDIA stated: “Certainly 2021 has been challenging with continued uncertainties. With that said, I am proud of our team (staff and fighters) who bit down, rolled with the punches, and really came roaring to the finish. I’m happy we were able to get our boxers significant opportunities that have put them in position to have a very successful 2022, and thrilled by the WBO World Championship earned by Joe Smith Jr. The business of boxing is much like boxing itself, and 2021 was certainly a year full of bobbing and weaving, being hit and hitting back. But, at its close, all of us at Star Boxing are proud of our team and excited for what’s to come. On behalf of all of us, I wish you a happy and healthy new year, and we hope to see you in two weeks on January 15th for Joe Smith Jr.’s world title defense against fellow light heavyweight banger, Callum Smith at Turning Stone live on ESPN!”

HOLLYWOOD, FL. (December 30, 2021) – Top heavyweight Luis “King Kong” Ortiz and former world champion Charles Martin went face-to-face at the final press conference Thursday before they meet in an IBF Heavyweight Title Eliminator headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View this Saturday, January 1 from Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida.

The press conference also featured rising heavyweight star Frank “The Cuban Flash” Sanchez and Christian Hammer, who duel in the 10-round co-main event.

Rounding out the heavyweight extravaganza and facing off at Thursday’s event were heavyweight contenders Jonnie Rice and Michael Coffie, who meet in a 10-round rematch, former title challenger Gerald “El Gallo Negro” Washington and Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen, who battle in a 10-round fight, and unbeaten Viktor Faust and Iago Kiladze, who square off in the 10-round pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from Hard Rock Live:

LUIS ORTIZ

“I’m very thankful for this great opportunity that my team has set me up with on Saturday night. It’s exciting to be able to give the fans a great show.

“When somebody says they’re going to knock me out, it just makes me laugh and smile. Everybody says that. But you’re facing a fighter who has been through it before, so you can try your best.

“I’m glad that he’s saying that he’s going to knock me out. He’s coming with bad intentions and so am I. Anyone can land the big shot, but it’s going to be me with my hand-raised Saturday night.

“I’m very proud to have made my pro debut here at Hard Rock and to have done it in style. I’m glad that he trained well for this fight, because he’s going to be facing a difficult fighter who knows how to adapt.

“First of all, my mind is 100% and that’s the most important thing. On Saturday night, everyone will see that physically, I’m also completely ready to become world champion.”

CHARLES MARTIN

“I’m so excited for this fight. This is a great opportunity and I’m thankful for this chance that I have. It’s great to be displayed as the headliner. PBC has faith in me and I’m going to go out and show why.

“What you see is what you get. I’ve been working hard in the gym day in and day out. It’s like second nature to me. I’m ready to let my hands speak. I’m going to be very skillful in there.

“This is going to be a great fight. You don’t really see two southpaws too often in the heavyweight division. You’re going to see some really good boxing in this fight.

“You’re going to get a knockout in this fight. We’re not going to go 12 rounds. I know I’m going to knock him out.

“I didn’t get a fair shake in my first run as champion. This is the revenge tour right now. Luis Ortiz is first on my list of these last four fights I want before I retire, which includes two against Anthony Joshua. I want to beat him down twice.

“Me and my trainer Manny Robles have been doing a lot of great work in the gym. People only see what happens in the ring, they don’t see what happens behind closed doors. I have business to take care of on Saturday and we’re ready.

“I’m remaining hopeful about getting another world title fight. I never overlook my opponent or look ahead to another fight though. Ortiz is the only opposition that I see at this moment.”

FRANK SANCHEZ

“After joining with my trainer Eddy Reynoso’s team, I’ve learned so much under his tutelage. It’s put me in position to give a great performance Saturday on pay-per-view.

“We trained hard and we trained to fight anyone who would be stepping in against me. I was ready for Negron, but I’m going to be ready for anyone standing there in front of me.

“Christian Hammer is a good fighter and I’m going to be ready for him. That’s what we train for. The opponent doesn’t matter if you’ve prepared to 100% of your ability.

“If I win on Saturday, I feel like I’m going to keep moving up and facing tougher competition. I believe I’m going to be ready for the world title fight next year.”

CHRISTIAN HAMMER

“I was with my team here in the U.S. already, supporting my teammates Viktor and Ali when I got the call about this fight. I was having a great training camp with them, so I was ready to take this fight.

“It’s my job to take these fights. I’m going to do my job and give everyone a good fight on Saturday. I know Sanchez is a good fighter, but I’ve faced a lot of good fighters. We’ll see what he’s made of.”

JONNIE RICE

“Of course I feel pressure to repeat my performance from our first fight. A lot of people thought it was a fluke, so now I just have to do the same thing times two. I’m getting paid more this time, so I’m going to do it even quicker in this fight.

“Everyone knows how these things go. I was a big underdog in the first fight, so everyone thinks something must have gone wrong. Something had to be out of the ordinary. Let’s understand something though, it’s going to go down the same way Saturday night.

“I don’t feel like he underestimated me in the first fight. I know his attention had been on Gerald Washington. These things happen.

“I’m more confident now than ever. If he doesn’t bring me down a level, my head is going to keep getting bigger and bigger. He might have to do me a favor, because right now, I feel like I’m about to take over the whole world.”

MICHAEL COFFIE

“I didn’t touch Rice in the first fight, but I’m definitely going to touch him for sure on Saturday night. I definitely have a chip on my shoulder now.

“I have to prove myself. I didn’t get a chance to show what I can actually do in the first fight. I don’t even care about my record, I just want to show my skills. Everyone is going to see on Saturday.

“This time Rice is my original opponent from the beginning. We prepared specifically for him this time. I’m also a lot healthier for this camp. I’m 100% and I’m ready to go.

“This is not a real beef between us, but it’s intense and it’s part of the game. We’re going to play that game on Saturday and may the best man win. I know that it’s going to be me.”

GERALD WASHINGTON

“I feel great. It’s good to be back. I’ve been in the gym working hard with my team. I’ve learned a lot of great things and I’ve taken advantage of the time I’ve had.

“I’m looking forward to showing off my hard work and getting back into a top position in this division. My opponent is coming in hungry to prove himself, and that should make this a great fight for the fans.”

ALI EREN DEMIREZEN

“I’ve had three fights since the Efe Ajagba fight and I’ve gotten much better since then. My skills have improved and I’m very eager to get in the ring and display them.

“This is my second chance fighting in the U.S. and I want to show that I belong in this position. I have to get by this test against Gerald Washington. That’s the only thing that’s on my mind.”

VIKTOR FAUST

“I’m a very good fighter and I’m going to show everyone on Saturday. I’m planning on displaying my technique, skill and power in this fight against Kiladze.

“It’s exciting to be in this position. I love to compete and Saturday is a big opportunity for me. I know I have to give a great performance.”

IAGO KILADZE

“I work hard and train so much. I’ve had a very long training camp. I’m in great shape now and I will give everyone another great fight on Saturday night. I promise that.

“There are a lot of great fighters on this card and I’m excited to be here with them. I’m going to prove with how I fight on Saturday that this is exactly where I belong.”

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ABOUT ORTIZ VS. MARTIN
Ortiz vs. Martin will see top heavyweight Luis “King Kong” Ortiz take on former world champion Charles Martin in a 12-round IBF Heavyweight Title Eliminator topping a jam-packed FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View on New Year’s Day live from Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida.

In the co-main event, unbeaten rising heavyweight star Frank “The Cuban Flash” Sanchez will square off against Christian Hammer in a 10-round attraction.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will also see heavyweight contenders Jonnie Rice and Michael Coffie battle in a 10-round rematch, former title challenger Gerald “El Gallo Negro” Washington in a 10-round showdown against Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen and unbeaten Viktor Faust facing Iago Kiladze in a 10-round attraction to open the pay-per-view.

Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

Alycia Baumgardner has signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom.
 
Baumgardner (11-1 7 KOs) burst onto the World scene with a stunning KO win over Terri Harper in Sheffield, England in November, ripping the WBC and IBO World Super-Featherweight titles from the Doncaster star in the fourth round of her first World title fight.
 
The 27 year old is eyeing a massive year in 2022 and has made no secret of her targets – to unify and become undisputed at 130lbs, putting both IBF and WBO champion Mikaela Mayer and WBA ruler Hyun Mi Choi on notice – and the Ohioan has made it clear to Hearn, Matchroom and co-promoters King’s Promotions what she wants, and that’s all the marbles.
 
“2021 was definitely a breakthrough year for me,” said Baumgardner. “I had a great experience working with Matchroom to win the WBC and IBO World titles in the UK. Signing this deal with them puts me in a position to achieve my next goal of becoming Undisputed at 130 pounds. Being on top is to stay on top and continue being the athlete I know I am.
 
“Have no doubt I am the top dog in my weight class and it’s only a matter of time before I have all the belts to prove it. Nobody is going to stand in my way. I’ve worked very hard to stay and make my mark. I will continue making history in the sport of boxing.”
 
“I am delighted to welcome Alycia to the team,” said Hearn. “Alycia provided one of the KOs of the year against Terri and made the boxing world stand up and take notice that she’d arrived at the top table.
 
“Alycia is a terrier in the ring and demonstrated her pop with that stoppage, but she’s also a huge personality with real charisma; she is the full package and she’s going to have big fights in 2022 and beyond to prove it.”
 
You can follow Baumgardner’s journey on Instagram: alyciabaumgardner and Twitter: @aliciambaum

LAS VEGAS (December 29, 2021) – Former unified welterweight world champion Keith “One Time’’ Thurman and former super lightweight world champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios, plus four-division world champion Leo “El Terremoto’’ Santa Cruz and Keenan “Bedo’’ Carbajal, previewed their showdowns on a virtual press conference Wednesday before they compete on FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View Saturday, February 5 from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features Thurman and Barrios clashing in the 12-round welterweight main event, while Santa Cruz and Carbajal duel in the 10-round super featherweight co-main event.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and are available at axs.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

KEITH THURMAN

“I’m happy to be here. It’s a blessing and I’m looking forward to this return. It’s been a long time coming. I’m not injured anymore and I feel great. I’m excited to perform for the fans in Las Vegas once again.

“It’s not ideal to have a layoff like I had, but you just have to roll with things in life. I’ve spent a lot of time meditating and prioritizing different things. Now the date is set and I can’t wait to get back in action. I truly love this sport.

“I was given a few options for opponents, and once I heard Barrios had interest in it, I knew that he was coming off an exciting fight and that I wanted to make it happen. Once Barrios was on the menu, I was ready to take him.

“There’s always pressure to be great. That pressure makes diamonds. Fighters like me and like Barrios, we want to shine. We take that pressure and everything coming our way. That’s the path of the warrior. There’s so much beauty in it. Our hearts pump better when we take those challenges head on.

“There’s no test better than a Keith Thurman test. You don’t step to Keith Thurman if you don’t want to make a name for yourself at 147. We have two fighters coming off of losses, which means we both have to prove ourselves. The time is now. Talk about the past if you want, but February 5, new stories will be created.

“In 2019, I fought Manny Pacquiao because that was the most exciting thing I could do then. Once I’m comfortable in this return, I’m coming for greatness. We know we’ve fallen from the ladder and we’re looking up. That’s okay, because we’re going to take it one step at a time to get back to where we were, in the top spot of the welterweight division.

“The fire has been burning inside me my whole life. It doesn’t matter what we’re competing in. When you’re in this sport, you’re in it to win. You have to be. That competitiveness is natural for me. No matter how long I’m off, I’m thinking about boxing.

“I’m here to prove that I’m not the kind of fighter that you can write off. The cream is going to rise to the top. I might have fallen, but you best believe I’m going to rise again. This year is about doing what I have to do to be at the pinnacle of the division.”

MARIO BARRIOS

“I’ve been staying in the gym and I’m excited to make my return. I wanted to come back even sooner, but now the date is set and I’m excited.

“Once this fight was brought up to me, I was ready to go. Not many fighters are able to headline a pay-per-view for a second straight fight and I’m grateful for the opportunity. I’m just looking to take full advantage of it.

“Fighting in Las Vegas is super exciting. The way everything has unfolded in my career is very humbling. It just goes to show how much work I’ve put in at only 26-years-old. This is huge for me. I’m up against a great fighter and I can’t wait to showcase my talent and my skills at 147 pounds.

“Moving up to welterweight was a long time coming for myself. I have a big frame and it was getting hard to make 140. We were thinking about 147 before the Gervonta Davis fight was even made. I didn’t want my first welterweight fight to be against an easy opponent. I wanted to fight an established welterweight who’s been in the ring with the best. Keith is a great fighter and I know this has the potential to be one of the best fights of the year.

“I’m in this sport to fight the best and that’s all I want to do. I’m in my prime right now. There was no hesitation moving up in weight or with taking the Thurman fight. I could have made 140 if I had to, but we decided that it was best to fight at a more natural weight.

“I still believe Thurman is one of the best in the division and that’s why this fight was exciting to me. If I go in there and handle my business, I automatically solidify myself in this division. I’m chasing greatness.

“If anything, I’m going to have more agility and stamina at this weight. Not having to drain myself is going to help me. I’m excited to showcase my talent and skills at a more comfortable weight.”

LEO SANTA CRUZ

“I’m very excited to be back in this fight. This is the longest I’ve been away from the ring, so I’ve been anxious to return. My last fight didn’t go my way, but I’m looking forward to getting back to the top.

“Keenan is a strong fighter who doesn’t run. We’re coming to entertain the fans and that’s what we’ll do. I’m very motivated that Keenan is going to come to fight. I don’t want to be chasing a fighter all night long. I want to go back and forth and that’s what Carbajal will bring to the table.

“I wanted to see how I felt in this training camp before making a decision about what weight I fight at in the future. Now I’ve dropped the weight easily, so as long as everything goes well on February 5, I’ll be back at 126 in my next fight.

“I love fighting in Las Vegas, it’s like my second hometown. I have a lot of fans there. Plus, to be on a card this big with two great fighters in the main event is amazing, because I know they’re going to give a great fight. What’s in my head is giving an even better fight than the main event. This is a stacked card and I’m looking forward to being the fight of the night. It’s a big task.

“It was a bit hard for me after the knockout loss. But once I got back home and got encouragement from my fans, I felt better. I just got overexcited in the fight and Gervonta landed a good punch. I always want to entertain the fans. I had to pay for it this time, but I always will try to give fans a great fight.

“I think it’s better that I’m fighting a taller opponent. With a taller fighter, I know they have the reach, but I like to go toe-to-toe. I’m going to adjust in the ring. I’m confident and I know what I have to do in order to give a great performance.”

KEENAN CARBAJAL

“My last fight in November was an amazing experience fighting in front of my hometown crowd at the Phoenix Suns arena. I’m excited to be back in action against Leo Santa Cruz on February 5.

“This is a great matchup. I’m looking to make this a classic fight. This is going to be a fight that people talk about for years to come. I really believe this is going to be a classic.

“I definitely can knock Leo out. I’m not just looking for it though. If it comes, it comes. I’m prepared to go to war. I know Leo’s style and he knows mine. There are going to be heavy punches exchanged. I’m coming to hurt him.

“I’m definitely overlooked in this fight. I understand the game and that I’m the underdog. But I believe I earned this spot and that’s all that matters. It doesn’t matter what the odds are, it just matters what happens on February 5.

“I’ve gained a lot of experience in my career. My mind and my body are one now. I’m able to do exactly what my team wants me to do in the ring. I feel like I’m at my peak right now.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“This is a tremendous card and I’m really looking forward to it. Thurman and Barrios are looking to rebound from their first career losses and they know they have to do whatever it takes to win this fight. Both guys are extremely motivated for February 5. This is definitely going to be an all-out war.

“Keith is focused on all the 147-pound champions, but he knows he has to get by Mario Barrios first. When Barrios got the call, he said yes immediately. Now he’s got the chance to prove himself against a former unified 147-pound champion.

“Leo Santa Cruz is also sure to be highly motivated in his ring return and I expect that he is going to come with more intensity than ever against a tough and talented opponent in Keenan Carbajal.”

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ABOUT THURMAN VS. BARRIOS
Thurman vs. Barrios will see former unified welterweight world champion Keith “One Time’’ Thurman return to the ring to take on former super lightweight world champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios in a 12-round welterweight showdown that headlines a jam-packed FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View lineup on Saturday, February 5 from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

In the co-feature, four-division world champion Leo “El Terremoto’’ Santa Cruz will battle Keenan “Bedo’’ Carbajal in a 10-round super featherweight match, while battle-tested all-action welterweights Abel Ramos and Josesito “Riverside Rocky’’ Lopez clash in a 10-round attraction. The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with former two-division champion Luis “Pantera” Nery battling unbeaten Carlos Castro in a 10-round super bantamweight duel.

Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

HOLLYWOOD, FL. (December 28, 2021) – Unbeaten lightweight contender Frank Martin, who fights under Errol Spence Jr.’s Man Down Promotions banner, will square off against Romero Duno in a 10-round showdown that tops PBC action live on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday, January 1 kicking off the New Year from Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida.

The FOX broadcast begins at 5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT and will see undefeated Cuban heavyweights go toe-to-toe as Geovany Bruzon battles 2016 Olympian Lenier Pero in the 10-round co-feature.

The two-hour FOX kickoff show precedes a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View heavyweight extravaganza featuring top contender Luis “King Kong” Ortiz facing former heavyweight champion Charles Martin in the main event, plus heavyweight rising star Frank “The Cuban Flash” Sanchez battling Christian Hammer in the co-main event. Hammer replaces Carlos Negron, who was forced to withdraw after a positive COVID test.

The pay-per-view action begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will also see heavyweight contenders Jonnie Rice and Michael Coffie battle in a 10-round rematch, former title challenger Gerald “El Gallo Negro” Washington in a 10-round showdown against Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen and unbeaten Viktor Faust facing Iago Kiladze in a 10-round attraction to open the pay-per-view.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com. Martin vs. Duno is promoted in association with Man Down Promotions.

The 26-year-old Martin (14-0, 10 KOs) has risen up the lightweight rankings in 2021 with a pair of impressive victories. Martin knocked out the previously unbeaten Jerry Perez in a dominating performance in April, before most recently earning a unanimous decision over Ryan Kielczweski in August. Originally from Indianapolis, Martin now trains in the Dallas-area under the guidance of top trainer Derrick James and alongside unified welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr.

Representing his native Cotabato City, Maguindanao, Philippines, Duno (24-2, 19 KOs) enters the fight the winner of three-straight bouts, all by knockout. The 26-year-old has put together the winning-streak following a 2019 defeat to unbeaten contender Ryan Garcia. Duno’s 2021 triumphs have come over Ramon Elizer Esperanza in August and Jonathan Perez in September.

The 24-year-old Bruzon (6-0, 5 KOs) was born in Holguin, Cuba and now fights out of Las Vegas. A pro since 2019, Bruzon scored first or second round stoppages in his first five bouts, before his most recent contest ended in a technical decision victory. Bruzon makes his U.S. debut on January 1, having most recently won that decision over German Garcia in April, a fight that saw him go eight rounds for the first time.

A 2016 Olympian from Camaguey, Cuba, Pero (5-0, 3 KOs) had an extensive and successful amateur career that spanned over 100 fights, including multiple victories over countryman Frank Sanchez, in addition to challenges against heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk, heavyweight prospect Filip Hrgovic and Olympic gold medalist Bakhodir Jalolov. The 29-year-old now fights out of Trelew, Chubut, Argentina, and will also be making his U.S. debut on January 1. Pero most recently knocked out Dumar Carrascal in the first round in June.

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ABOUT ORTIZ VS. MARTIN
Ortiz vs. Martin will see top heavyweight Luis “King Kong” Ortiz take on former world champion Charles Martin in a 12-round IBF Heavyweight Title Eliminator topping a jam-packed FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View on New Year’s Day live from Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida.

In the co-main event, unbeaten rising heavyweight star Frank “The Cuban Flash” Sanchez will square off against Christian Hammer in a 10-round attraction.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will also see heavyweight contenders Jonnie Rice and Michael Coffie battle in a 10-round rematch, former title challenger Gerald “El Gallo Negro” Washington in a 10-round showdown against Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen and unbeaten Viktor Faust facing Iago Kiladze in a 10-round attraction to open the pay-per-view.

Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

LOS ANGELES – BELLATOR MMA 273: Bader vs. Moldavsky has announced several new mouth-watering matchups to the event on Saturday, Jan. 29, which emanates from the Footprint Center in Phoenix, AZ and is headlined by the Heavyweight World Title fight between current 265-pound champion Ryan Bader (28-7, 1 NC)and interim heavyweight titleholder Valentin Moldavsky (11-1).

The card’s co-main event will feature a showdown of top-10 lightweight contenders as Phoenix, Ariz., resident and No. 6-ranked Benson Henderson (28-11) hopes to thrill the hometown fans against No.7-ranked Islam Mamedov (20-1-1).

In addition, the main card will see a featherweight fight featuring Fight Ready MMA gym’s Henry “OK” Corrales (19-6), who will fight in front of his adopted town against Birmingham, England’s own Aiden Lee (10-5) and hard-hitting American Top Team welterweight Sabah Homasi (15-10), who returns to action against tenacious Tennessean Jaleel Willis (15-3) in a battle of Southeastern talents.

Several newly announced preliminary fights have been added to the packed event including a battle of unbeaten middleweights with identical records as No. 9-ranked Romero Cotton (5-0) of Hutchinson, Kansas, faces knockout artist Dalton Rosta (5-0).

Additionally, two of the hardest-hitting 205 pounders in the BELLATOR stable will square off when former Arizona State wrestling standout Sullivan Cauley (2-0) takes on viral fan-favorite Ben “Big Tuna” Parrish (5-1).

Lastly, BELLATOR veteran Saad Awad (24-13, 1 NC) of San Bernardino, Calif., strives to build off a highlight reel first-round TKO in his last outing when he makes his 23^rd consecutive promotional appearance by confronting Sacramento scrapper Chris Gonzalez (6-1) in a 155-pound Golden State skirmish.

SHOWTIME will televise the highly anticipated main card live at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. Additionally, the must-watch preliminary fights will stream live three hours earlier at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on the BELLATOR and SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channels, as well as Pluto TV.

Tickets for BELLATOR MMA 273: Bader vs. Moldavsky are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com and Bellator.com.

Born and raised in Phoenix, Benson Henderson has held world championships for both UFC and WEC during a standout 15-plus-year MMA career and is fueled by a quest for BELLATOR gold. Standing in the way of that monumental achievement is Dagestan, Russia-bred Islam Mamedov who is currently riding a 20-bout unbeaten streak (19 victories, one draw) dating back to 2010.

Returning to the 145-pound division in his last fight, Henry “OK” Corrales pressured Vladyslav Parubchenko for three straight rounds en route to a unanimous decision triumph at BELLATOR 268. Possessing 19 professional victories, including seven by knockout and six by submission, the 35-year-old Californian will fight for the second straight time at Footprint Center. On the other side of the cage, 26-year-old United Kingdom native Aiden Lee sports submission wins in eight of his 10 professional victories and will fight in the United States for only the second time in 16 pro-outings.

Armed with six opening-round stoppages among 10 career knockouts, “The Sleek Sheik” Sabah Homasi wastes no time when he steps into the cage. On the other side, Jaleel “The Realest” Willis maintains a pace that opponents find difficult to match as he has defeated six of his last seven opponents.

After calling out his name for years, Dalton Rosta will finally get his wish when he collides with fellow undefeated middleweight Romero Cotton. Following his 2019 BELLATOR debut, Rosta, a former Seton Hall University wrestler, has taken the promotion by storm as “Hercules” has stopped 60 percent of his opponents within two rounds. Cotton, a decorated college wrestler in his own right from the University of Nebraska at Kearny, made his BELLATOR debut in 2017 and has finished four of his five opponents in the first two stanzas.

Fighting in his home state of Arizona for the second time in three appearances, Sullivan Cauley has yet to go more than one round in his young MMA career. In his pro debut at BELLATOR MMA 253 in November 2020, “Sully” made quick work of Jason Markland by dispatching of his opponent in 28 seconds. Less than a year later, Cauley continued his winning ways by stopping Deon Clash with one second remaining in the opening frame at BELLATOR MMA 268. Nicknamed “Big Tuna,” Ben Parrish is currently riding the momentum of a 38-second, knockout-of-the-year candidate over rising star Christian Edwards at BELLATOR MMA 266 and has defeated 80 percent of his adversaries by submission.

Coming off a first-round knockout over Nate Andrews in May 2021, promotional mainstay Saad Awad will take sole possession of second-most BELLATOR fights of all time when he steps into the cage for the 24^th time to take on Team Alpha Male-product Chris Gonzalez. Carrying his collegiate All-American wrestling skills into the cage, Gonzalez has been dominant since his promotional debut in 2019, tallying five victories in six contests.

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BELLATOR MMA 273: BADER VS. MOLDAVSKY MAIN CARD:

Saturday, Jan. 29 – live on SHOWTIME

10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT

Heavyweight World Title Main Event: C-Ryan Bader (28-7, 1 NC) vs. IC-Valentin Moldavsky (11-1)

Lightweight Bout: #6-Benson Henderson (28-11) vs. #7-Islam Mamedov (20-1-1)

Featherweight Bout: Henry Corrales (19-6) vs. Aiden Lee (10-5)

Welterweight Bout: Sabah Homasi (15-10) vs. Jaleel Willis (15-3)

PRELIMINARY CARD: 

BELLATOR MMA YouTube channel | SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel | Pluto TV

7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT 

Bantamweight Bout: Darrion Caldwell (14-5) vs. Enrique Barzola (16-5-2)

Lightweight Bout: Saad Awad (24-13, 1 NC) vs. Chris Gonzalez (6-1)

Middleweight Bout: #9-Romero Cotton (5-0) vs. Dalton Rosta (5-0)

Light Heavyweight Bout: Sullivan Cauley (2-0) vs. Ben Parrish (5-1)

*Card subject to change.

Please visit Bellator.com for additional information.

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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 ViacomCBS, 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 ViacomCBS Inc., owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ and FLIX®, and also offers SHOWTIME ON DEMAND®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ ON DEMAND and FLIX ON DEMAND®, and the network’s authentication service SHOWTIME ANYTIME®. Showtime Digital Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of SNI, operates the stand-alone streaming service SHOWTIME®. SHOWTIME is currently available to subscribers via cable, DBS, and telco providers, and as a stand-alone streaming service through Amazon, Apple®, Google, LG Smart TVs, Oculus Go, Roku®, Samsung Smart TVs, Xbox One and PlayStation®4. Consumers can also subscribe to SHOWTIME via Amazon’s Prime Video Channels, Apple TV Channels, AT&T TV Now, FuboTV, Hulu, The Roku Channel, Sling TV, and YouTube TV. Viewers can also watch on computers at Showtime.com. 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. 

BOSTON (December 27, 2021) — Five Dominican fighters managed by Ryan Roach closed 2021 in winning style last month for his company, Fighter Locker, going 5-for-5 in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic.

Lightweight Leonel de los Santos, cruiserweight Roki ‘Rocky” Berroa, featherweight Orlando Perez Zapata, super welterweight Juan Solano Santos, and Fighter Locker’s latest signee, lightweight Isaelin Florian Henriquez, were all in action this past November 28th.

Santos (5-0, 5 KOs), 2-time Dominican Olympian, kept his pro record perfect with a first-round stoppage of Julio Fiorentino (1-2). The 27-year-old Santos is 2-0 since returning from this year’s Olympics in Tokyo.

Berroa (2-0, 1 KO), 26, blasted out pro-debuting Leonel Montero Bido only 25-seconds into the opening round.

Southpaw Solano Santos took out pro-debuting Pedro Bonilla in the third round, while Zapata improved to 10-0 with 8 knockouts, stopping Alexander Guzman (0-3) late in round one.

Roach’s latest signee, Henriquez (8-1, 4 KOs), won his fist fight under the Fighter Locker banner, knocking out Annuel Perez (0-2) in the first round.

“I am very pleased with the results from Santo Domingo,” Roach said. “I was able to watch the fights via stream and they all looked great. They made quick work of their opponents, which was the game plan for their final fights of the year. These fighters have a bright future and I am looking forward to seeing them in action early next year, and hopefully having them fight here in Boston in the near future.

Fighter Locker’s growing stable of gifted boxers also include California super flyweight Rocco “So Cal Kid” Santomauro (21-1, 6 KOs), New York’s ABF American West super lightweight Ray Jay “The Destroyer” Bermudez (15-0, 11 KOs), Connecticut’s ABF USA super welterweight Jimmy “Quiet Storm” Williams (18-5-2, 6 KOs), Colorado’s ABF American West super middleweight champion “The Amazing” Shawn McCalman (10-0, 6 KOs), Massachusetts super lightweight Adrian “Tonka” Sosa (12-0, 9 KOs), Florida super bantamweight Daniel “The Dedication” Bailey, Jr. (9-0, 5 KOs), Massachusetts featherweight Troy Anderson, Jr. (3-0, 2 KOs), 2-time Brazilian Olympian & 2016 Olympic silver medalist Yuberjen Martinez, Brazilian Olympian Jorge Vivas, Florida light heavyweight Robert Daniels, Jr. (5-0, 5 KOs), Irish light heavyweight Tommy “The Kid” O’Toole (2-0, 2 KOs), Kansas welterweight Marcus Davidson (2-0, 2 KOs), Texas super lightweight Miranda “La Alacrana: Reyes (5-0-1, 2 KOs) ), and Utah brothers, ABF American West lightweight champion Ignacio Chairez (9-0-1, 5 KOs) and lightweight Gabriel Chairez (4-0-1, 2 KOs).

INFORMATION:

WEBSITE: fighterlocker.com, punch4parkinsons.com

FACEBOOK: /fighterlocker

TWITTER: @RoachRyan

INSTAGRAM: @RyanRoach82

ABOUT FIGHTER LOCKER: Established in 2019, Fighter Locker is a comprehensive sports agency that manages professional boxers. Fighter Locker also helps to brand boxers by finding their voice with a 100-percent customized service. Fighter Locker does not really believe in working models. It believes in partnership optimization models in motion.

Fighter Locker uses four creative steps because it believes in “the foundation is everything”: 1. wisely conceived, 2. creatively restrained, 3. Proudly judged, 4. sharply targeted.

PITTSBURGH (December 27, 2021) – Pittsburgh favorite Matt “Sweet Child” Conway (20-2, 8 KOs) will fight for the vacant International Boxing Association (IBA) Super Featherweight Championship, headlining Gionta Management’s “Winter Mayhem,” January 15th at Pittsburgh Shrine Center in Cheswick, Pennsylvania.

The reigning IBA Intercontinental Super Featherweight Champion, Conway takes on cross-state rival Avery Sparrow (10-3, 3 KOs), of Philadelphia, in the 12-round main event.

The 26-year-old Conway, who has never been stopped, has reeled-off three consecutive victories. Sparrow’s most notable wins have been against fellow Philly fighter 29-2-1 Hank Lundy (WMDEC10), and 19-1-1 Jose Lopez (WUDEC10).

“We have a great, action-packed show lined up here to start the new year,” promoter Derek Gionta said. “Matt Conway versus Avery Sparrow is a TV-caliber fight. Each fight on the undercard is very intriguing as well. Expect fireworks!”

In the co-featured event, Ohio lightweight Ryizeemmion “The Humble Beast” Ford (6-1, 4 KOs) takes on Lonnie Jackson, Jr. (5-2-2, 2 KOs), of Philadelphia, in an interesting 6-round match.

In a pair of potentially entertaining 6-round bouts, Pittsburgh middleweight prospect Eric Lomax (4-0, 3 KOs) faces Samuel Wildenhaus (4-1, 1 KO), and the Pittsburgh’s Johnny Spell, Jr. (5-0, 3 KOs) meets Dominican Republic super featherweight Nelson Morales (2-0), fighting out of Scranton (PA).

Undefeated Philadelphia welterweight Tahmir Smalls (6-0, 3 KOs) is slated to fight an opponent to be determined in a 6-rounder.

Also fighting on the undercard in 4-rounders, is Portugal super featherweight Milton Jorge Andrade Jeremias (2-0, 2 KO) vs. TBA, in addition to New York super featherweight Alexander Castellano (5-1, 2 KOs) vs. Ohio’s Shawn Rall (1-4, 1 KO).

Card is subject to change.

Available tickets are priced at $50.00 (reserved seating, plus tables of 8 ($800) and 12 ($1200), and available to purchase by calling 412.759.0407.

Doors open at 6 p.m. ET with the first bout starting at 7 p.m. ET.

INFORMATION:

Facebook: /DerekGionta

Twitter: @DGionta

Instagram: @d_p_g1

LinkedIn: DerekGionta-GiontaManagement

According to the New York Post, heavyweight boxer Danny Kelly passed away after a possible Road Rage shooting .

Kelly, a 30-year-old resident of Clinton, Md., was driving to a holiday gathering with his children and gal pal in nearby Temple Hills on Friday afternoon when a suspect pulled up his vehicle next to the family’s SUV and someone inside the other car opened fire, according to the department’s preliminary probe.

“At this time, detectives are looking into whether this was possible road rage,” local police said in a statement.

Cops found Kelly unconscious in the driver’s seat of the SUV with multiple gunshot wounds, Prince George’s County Police Department announced Saturday in a statement. He was later pronounced dead.

Neither his girlfriend nor three children were harmed in the shooting, police said.

“This is an absolutely heartbreaking loss for Mr. Kelly’s family and friends,” said Acting Major David Blazer of the Prince George’s County Police Department’s Major Crimes Division.

“He is not home with his loved ones today on Christmas who are now mourning his loss instead of celebrating the holiday.”

“St. Barnabas Road is a heavily traveled roadway. If any other drivers saw anything there on Christmas Eve or may have information that could help, please call us,” he said. “You can stay anonymous. We are committed to providing answers to his family,”

The Prince George County Police Department is offering $25,000 for information leading to an arrest of the shooter.

Kelly had a professional record of 10-3-1 with nine knockouts.

Kelly had a relatively brief but successful amateur career where he had about fifty fights and in that time. He placed 2nd in the National Golden Gloves tournament; 3rd in the Pan-American games and even traveled to China where he fought the 2008 Olympic Silver medal winner Zhang Zhilei.

Vito Milenicki Jr. stopped Nicholas Delomba in the 10th and final round of their welterweight bout.

Mielnicki dominated the fight, and in round 10 landed a hard right that rocked Delomba. Mielnicki hurt Delomba some more with a follow up flurry, and the corner stopped the bout at 1:49.

Mielnicki Jr., 146.4 lbs of Roseland, NJ is 10-1 with seven knockouts. Delomba, 145.4 lbs of Providence, RI is 16-4.

In a rematch, Rajon Chance won a six-round split decision over Elon De Jesus in a featherweight fight.

Chance, 125 lbs of East Orange, NJ won by scores of 59-55 and 58-58 and is now 6-0-1. De Jesus, 123.8 lbs of Dunkirk, NY took a card 58-56 and is now 3-1-1.

Yoelvis Gomez remained perfect with an opening round stoppage over Clay Collard in their six-round super welterweight fight.

Minutes into the fight, Gomez hurt Collard with a hard left. Gomez put Collard on the canvas after landing 12 hard shots. Gomez continued the onslaught that forced a referee stoppage at 2:11.

Gomez, 157.4 lbs of Havana, CUB is 5-0 with five knockouts. Collard, 158.8 lbs of Burley, ID is 9-6-3.

Joey Spencer stopped Limberth Ponce in round six of their eight-round super welterweight fight.

In round six, Spencer landed a hard right that hurt Ponce. Spencer then landed a huge left-right combination that sent Ponce crumbling down over his right leg, and the bout was stopped at 1:24.

Spencer, 156.4 lbs of Lindin, MI is 13-0 with 10 knockouts. Ponce, 155.6 lbs of Acapulco, MEX is 18-5.

Kenneth Sims Jr. won a eight-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Keshawn Williams in a welterweight bout.

Sims, 145.8 lbs of Chicago, IL won by scores of 79-73 twice and 78-74 and is now 17-2-1. Williams, 146.4 lbs of Washington, DC us 8-1-1.

Travon Marshall stopped Brian Jones in round four of their four-round super welterweight fight.

Marshall dominated the fight until the fight was stopped at 2:18 of round three.

Marshall, 149.6 lbs of Landover, MD is 4-0 with three knockouts. Jones, 148.8 lbs of Clarksville, TX is 15-13.

Michael Anderson scored a 3rd round stoppage over Noe Lopez in a scheduled six-round welterweight bout.

In round three, Anderson dropped Lopez with a big right. Seconds later, it was a double-hook that sent Lopez down for the 10-count at 33 seconds.

Anderson, 147 lbs of Newark, NJ is now 22-3-1 with 16 knockouts. Lopez, 146.6 lbs of Jalisco, MEX is 10-5-1.

NEWARK, N.J. (December 24, 2021) – Welterweight contender Kenneth Sims Jr. will take on undefeated prospect Keeshawn Williams in an eight-round showdown that tops FS1 PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, December 25 as part of a jam-packed Christmas Day lineup from Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

The FS1 telecast will begin at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT and also features unbeaten super welterweight prospect Travon Marshall (3-0, 2 KOs) in a four/six-round fight against Brian Jones (15-12, 9 KOs), plus a six-round welterweight duel between Newark’s Michael Anderson (21-3-1, 15 KOs) and Mexico’s Noe Lopez (10-4-1, 4 KOs).

Following the FS1 telecast, FOX PBC Fight Night begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT with welterweight prospect and New Jersey-native Vito Mielnicki Jr. taking on Nicholas DeLomba in the 10-round main event. The broadcast will also see sensational unbeaten prospect Joey Spencer battling Mexico’s Limberth Ponce for eight-rounds of middleweight action in the co-main event, plus featherweights Rajon Chance and Elon de Jesus duel in a six-round rematch, and unbeaten super welterweight prospect Yoelvis Gomez faces Clay Collard in a six-round attraction.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.com.

The 27-year-old Sims (16-2-1, 5 KOs) returns to the ring for the first time since a career-best victory in May saw him earn a decision over the previously unbeaten Elvis Rodriguez. A Chicago-native, Sims has won four of his last five fights dating back to a 2018 draw against Montana Love.

Fighting out of his native Washington, D.C., Williams (8-0-1, 2 KOs) will look to close out 2021 with a second victory after defeating Antonio Sanchez by unanimous decision in August. The 24-year-old had previously beaten Gaku Takahashi in January 2020 as part of a seven-bout winning streak dating back to a split-draw in his second pro fight.

The non-televised undercard will also include Malik Nelson (1-0, 1 KO) facing Prince Martin (1-0, 1 KO) in a four-round super bantamweight contest. Rounding out the lineup are three fighters making their pro debuts as welterweight Dwyke Flemmings takes on George Gethers (0-2) in a four-round fight, super lightweight Elijah Flores steps in for a four-round attraction against Shannon Hawkins (0-2) and welterweight Vincent Gigante competes in a four-round duel against Robbie Rose (0-1).

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Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

On Friday, January 7, 2022, power-punching WBC #13 and WBO #14 light heavyweight contender Ali Izmailov will return to action in a tough match-up against transplanted Panamanian veteran Israel Duffus on the untelevised undercard of the ShoBox: The New Generation 2022 kickoff episode (9 p.m. ET/PT) from the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Fla.

Izmailov (6-0, 4 KOs), from Malgobek, Russia, and Duffus (20-7, 17 KOs), now living in Los Angeles, will be fighting in support of the history-making ShoBox event in which, for the first time in the 20-plus year history of the series, all six fighters enter fight night without a loss.

“The Rumble at Caribe Royale,” presented by Sampson Boxing (Ali Izmailov appears courtesy of Salita Promotions), will see the Dominican Republic battle Puerto Rico in the 10-round featherweight main event, as Puerto Plata’s Luis “The Twist” Nunez (15-0, 11 KOs) meets Trujillo Alto’s Carlos “The Chosen One” Arrieta (14-0, 8 KOs) in the middle of the ring. The co-feature pits the Dominican Republic’s Starling Castillo (16-0, 12 KOs) against County of Georgia’s Otar Eranosyan (10-0, 6 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight bout. And in the telecast opener, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic knockout artist Edwin De Los Santos (13-0, 12 KOs) battles William “The Silent Assassin” Foster III (12-0, 8 KOs) of New Haven, Conn., in an eight-round super featherweight showdown.

A fast-rising force in the light heavyweight division, the 28-year-old Izmailov was last seen making his US ring debut at the Performance Arts Center in Dearborn, Mich., in October of this year, with an impressive two-round demolition of James Ballard (pictured above courtesy of My Art My Rules). Now residing in the United States, the fight with Duffus will be Izmailov’s second with new trainer John David Jackson.

“I am twice the fighter I was last time you saw me,” said Izmailov through an interpreter. “I have had more time to work with John David Jackson and with all that he is teaching me, I have become a new kind of animal. You will see me destroy to the head and body with non-stop intelligent pressure.”

“Ali is quickly becoming a very versatile boxer,” added Jackson. “As you know he can punch, but his boxing skills are so underrated because he hasn’t use them yet. His opponent will be somewhat crafty in the beginning, but after Ali begins to land his body punches, the fight should quickly change into his favor. He listens and learns quickly.”

A former WBC FECARBOX Light Heavyweight Champion, 29-year-old opponent Duffus went on a recent eight-fight winning streak, culminating with his title-winning victory in June 2018; a second-round stoppage of Mexico’s Victor Alfonso Leon. Never one to turn down a challenge, even internationally, three of Duffus’ last four opponents have been undefeated contenders.

“How he did against them will show you how good I am,” said Izmailov. “I’m going to tear him apart. Should I demolish him if I can or just bash on him until he quits? I will be throwing with power from new angles and in beautiful combinations. My left hook to the liver is going to really hurt.”

“Ali is a blue-chip contender, he is a skilled boxer and a big puncher,” said his promoter, Dmitriy Salita. “He is fighting the durable and very experienced Israel Duffus in only his seventh professional fight. An impressive win will show the boxing fans that Ali is on the fast track to a world title.”

#

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.

LAS VEGAS (Dec. 23, 2021) — Luis Alberto “El Venado” Lopez, the fast-rising featherweight from Mexicali, Mexico, has signed a new multi-year promotional contract with Top Rank. The 28-year-old Lopez (24-2, 13 KOs), ranked the IBF No. 1 featherweight contender, broke out from the 126-pound pack in 2021.
 
He began his campaign on March 18 with a first-round knockout over countryman Mauro Loreto in Mexicali. His breakthrough performance came on Sept. 10 in Tucson, Arizona, when he battered then-unbeaten prospect Gabriel Flores Jr. over 10 rounds en route to a unanimous decision. Less than three months later, he punched his passport once again and knocked out the previously unbeaten Isaac Lowe at the historic York Hall in London.
 
The Lowe triumph — an IBF world title eliminator — made Lopez the mandatory challenger for Kiko Martinez, the decorated Spaniard who recently knocked out Kid Galahad to become a two-weight world champion. Lopez hopes to challenge Martinez in the first half of 2022.
 
 “There are few more entertaining warriors in boxing than Luis Alberto Lopez, and he earned a new promotional contract and a shot at the title with a sensational year,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum.
 
Lopez said, “I am thankful to Bob Arum, Brad Goodman, and everybody at Top Rank. 2022 is the year I achieve my dream of becoming a world champion. Kiko Martinez is a great champion, but he is the man standing in my way. Next year, I will bring that IBF title home to Mexicali.”

December 23, 2021 – Probellum is delighted to announce the promotional signing of 31-year-old cruiserweight Noel Mikaelian.

The Armenian-German is the newest addition to Probellum’s elite-level roster, which has been expanding at a fast pace since launching in September.

A former WBO international cruiserweight champion, Mikaelian (25-2, 10 knockouts) has consistently showcased his quality throughout the course of a professional career which has spanned over 10 years. 

Following its launch, Probellum has already signed a number of top-quality fighters to its roster, including Pat and Luke McCormack, Regis Prograis, Nonito Donaire, Donnie Nietes, Lee McGregor, Eimantas Stanionis, Arthur Biyarslanov, Taras Shelestyuk, Ricky Burns, Paul Butler, Lewis Ritson, Muhammad Waseem, O’Shaquie Foster, Hovhannes Bachkov, Darius Fulghum, Eduardo Hernandez, Mark Dickinson, Brandon Moore, Jack Bowen and Jason Mallia.

Probellum has also secured co-promotional agreements with Wasserman Boxing, Universum in Germany, Groupe Yvon Michel in Canada, Maravillabox Promotions in Spain, Kynoch Boxing in Scotland, Mitchell Sports Promotions in England, LNK Boxing in Latvia, Titov Boxing in Russia, Glozier Boxing in New Zealand, Cuadrilatero Boxing in Colombia, PR Best Boxing in Puerto Rico, BXSTRS Promotions in Mexico, Shuan Boxing Promotions in the Dominican Republic, Bufalo Boxing in Nicaragua, Team Ellis Boxing in Australia, Moron Boxing in Venezuela, Volcano Boxing in El Salvador, Armin Tan Promotions in Indonesia, and Box Office Sports in Ghana.

The inaugural Probellum event took place at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena earlier this month, with Sunny Edwards retaining his IBF flyweight title courtesy of a win over Jayson Mama in the headline bout. A second show followed in the UK last Saturday.

“I’m very happy to sign for Probellum, the most exciting new brand in boxing,” said Mikaelian.

“I believe this will be a significant step in my development as a fighter, and I’m really looking forward to starting 2022 in a positive way, under the guidance of Probellum.”

“Noel has proven his quality for many years, and we are delighted to confirm his signing,” added Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum.

“The fact he has fought 27 times and secured 25 victories speaks volumes, and we are eager to see him take his undoubted talent onto another level with Probellum.”

For live news and updates, be sure to follow Probellum on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

LOS ANGELES (December 22, 2021) — World Cup Boxing Series (WCBS), co-founded by CEO Terry Hollan and matchmaker Guy Taylor, today formally announced its “4-Man Lightweight Tournament,” commencing with the February 24th semifinals in Mexico.

The venue, competing boxers, and streaming details will soon be announced.

“We’re so happy to see this tournament finally become a reality,” WCBS/matchmaker Guy Taylor said. “It was a lot harder than we had anticipated due to ongoing COVID-19 travel restrictions. It seemed like once one country’s ban was lifted, two others were banned. After talking with the CEO, we decided to do an All-Mexico Lightweight Tournament featuring the top available prospects.

“I have always been infatuated with tournament elements. When we started the World Cup Boxing Series, we wanted to give boxing fans an opportunity to enjoy the same excitement that other sports fans get to enjoy with tournaments and playoffs.”

The “World Cup Boxing Series 4-Man Tournament” will begin Feb. 24th with the semifinals, contested in 8-round matches, and conclude with the 10-round championship final on June 2nd.

Several locations are being strongly considered for the semifinals as San Carlos, Los Mochis and Obregon are all actively pursuing the opportunity to host the first Mexican-based boxing tournament in many years.

“We haven’t made up our mind yet on the exact location,” Taylor added, “but I do know which city we are looking at closely. Wherever we end up going, it will be the hottest ticket in town.”

Although names of the competing fighters haven’t officially been announced, several reports have mentioned one of the top contenders is Mexico’s No. 1 lightweight prospect, undefeated Luis “Koreano” Torres (14-0, 10 KOs), the World Boxing Council (WBC) Youth Lightweight Champion.

“Knowing Taylor’s aggressive matchmaking style,” WCBS CEO Hollan noted, “his bouts are nothing short of electric and entertaining, and he may even pick it up a notch or two for this tournament.”