EGGINGTON READY FOR WAR AGAINST UNDEFEATED FRENCH ACE JKITOU AT COVENTRY SKYDOME ARENA
London, UK (12 August 2021) Birmingham warrior Sam Eggington is ready to go to war with undefeated French ace Bilel Jkitou when they collide on Friday 10th September at the Coventry Skydome Arena, exclusively live in the UK and Ireland on free-to-air Channel 5.
The Savage puts his WBC Silver Middleweight title on the line for the first time and must repel the hard-hitting danger man to protect his position as World title contender as he closes in fast on a World title shot.
Eggington’s defence against Jkitou headlines an action packed card Hennessy All-Stars featuring some of the stars from the promoter’s stable including big-hitting Brixton star Isaac Chamberlain; Irish KO king Stevie McKenna; Birmingham’s Former British Light-Heavyweight Champion Shakan Pitters; Coventry’s dynamite-punching middleweight sensation River Wilson-Bent, Birmingham welterweight ace Kaisee Benjamin; Birmingham’s flash and brash Love Island and super-middleweight star Idris Virgo; red-hot Irish super-welterweight talent Brett McGinty; Brighton heavyweight destroyer Tommy Welch and the silky skilled Sevenoaks prospect Michael Hennessy Jr.
Tickets are available to purchase now from only £40* from the Coventry Skydome Arena website https://iceaccount.co.uk/championship-boxing
Egginton, the Former British, Commonwealth, European and International Champion, was last in action in May and returns to the Skydome Arena where he won the title with a punch perfect performance against the rugged Mexican former World Champion Carlos Molina to win widely on the scorecards by unanimous decision.
The 27-year-old has the advantage in big-fight experience from his 37 fights and 15 Championship contests to overcome the aggressive and highly confident Jkitou who is intent on pulling off a major shock in his first fight in England.
From Nanterre, Hauts-de-Seine, Jkitou is the former WBC Mediterranean Middleweight Champion and has amassed an unbeaten 15-fight record with 6 knockouts since turning professional in February 2015.
The 29-year-old is in fine recent form with back-to-back KO’s in his last three fights. Last time out in March this year he destroyed Gyorgy Mizsei in the second round in his hometown; prior to that in February last year he smashed Felice Moncelli in the opening round and Ernesto Olvera was despatched in eight rounds in October 2019.
Jkitou is well known in his homeland as he was previously a semi-professional player with Red Star, the oldest league football club in Paris, where he played as a striker.
All-action Eggington knows he has to be at the top of his game to see off Jkitou’s challenge and is prepared to dig deep and go beyond as he promises to retain his belt in style.
“I know that Jkitou will be coming into the ring as a hungry challenger looking to knock me out and take my crown, but there’s no way he’s going to do that,” Said Eggington.
“He’ll be going all out to beat me and make a name for himself but knowing that he wants to destroy my plans makes me train harder and makes me even more determined to smash him up. There’s no way he’s beating me or taking my belt,”
“I’ve worked too long and hard in my career and I’m at the point of challenging for a World title so I cannot let all that blood, sweat and tears be for nothing,”
“He’d better be prepared for a war in there on the night because I’m putting everything on the line.”
Fiercely determined Jkitou believes he can knockout Eggington and will return to France a hero.
He said, “I’m very confident, I feel good I’m ready all year round, it’s a big challenge to fight Sam with a good belt so I had to accept the fight,”
“He is a very good boxer with qualities and flaws, I think he has never boxed a boxer as smart as me. The tactics will make the difference in this fight.
“I think I would beat him by knockout or by stoppage in the 8th or 9th round. If he underestimates me that’s fine for me, it’s the truth in the ring,”
“If I beat Eggington I’ll come back as a hero in France and with a good position on my standings, it’s one of the most important fights of my career.”
Hennessy, who recently signed a long-term promotional agreement with Eggington, is excited by the Eggington-Jkitou showdown and is predicting fireworks on the night.
He said, “This is set to be a real fiery encounter between Eggington and Jkitou. Styles make fights and with Eggington’s solid and relentless punching, never taking a step back and iron resilience matched against Jkitou’s aggressive, attacking style and hard-hitting, plus the volatile English-French rivalry thrown in, I believe it will produce some real fireworks on the night.”
Hennessy also added that he has two further Championship Boxing dates confirmed on Saturday 13 November at the Coventry Skydome Arena and Saturday 11 December (venue TBC) – both live and free on Channel 5 – with the full show line-up to be announced shortly.
He continued, “I’m delighted to officially confirm our big fight dates for the last quarter of 2021 and we’re at the Coventry Skydome Arena on Saturday 13 November and the venue for final date on Saturday 11 December will be announced shortly. Our Champions and talented prospects will be out in action again as we close the year and get ready for a massive 2022.”
*Tickets subject to booking fee.
Manny Pacquiao: “TWENTY YEARS AGO,I WAS YORDENIS UGÁS.”
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA (August 16, 2021) — With undefeated WBC/IBF welterweight champion Errol Spence sidelined while he recovers from retina surgery, all eyes are on WBA welterweight champion Yordenis Ugás. Ugás stepped up from the card’s co-main event and will defend his title against the legendary eight-division world champion and boxer laureate Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao, thisSaturday, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. It will be seen live as the main event on FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View beginning at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT.
Twenty years ago, with only one world title to his name, unknown outside the Philippines, and idling in the junior featherweight division, Manny Pacquiao received a call from destiny. IBF junior featherweight champion Lehlo Ledwaba, considered by most to be the class of the division, was scheduled to make a title defense against Enrique Sanchez in the co-main event of an HBO PPV card headlined by the Javier Castillejo – Oscar De La Hoya WBC super welterweight championship fight which took place on June 23, 2001. Two weeks before the fight, Sanchez was injured in training camp and the hunt was on for a replacement. After a few name opponents rejected the fight, Manny, the IBF’s No. 3 world-rated contender, received the offer, which he and his new trainer world-famous Freddie Roach readily accepted. The rest is history. From the opening bell, Manny was all over Ledwaba, busting him up from pillar to post until the fight was stopped in the sixth round.
“I was in very good shape since I had recently fought in the Philippines and had just begun to work with Freddie,” said Manny, who ends his Wild Card Boxing Club training camp today. “I was a day away from going home to the Philippines when the fight was offered to me. I was so excited. This was a great opportunity. There was no way I was going to pass it up. Freddie and I worked every day those two weeks until the weigh-in. That is how we started to get to know each other. Ugás is in a similar situation. He was already training for a welterweight title fight on the same card as mine so he too is ready to make the most of this opportunity. I know what Ugás is feeling because twenty years ago I was Ugás. I am not taking him for granted. In fact I am taking him as seriously as I took Errol Spence. I will not make the same mistake Ledwaba made with me. I still have the same hunger to win. I live for it. I have had a great training camp and I am well-prepared. I want to prove to everyone, especially Yordenis Ugás, that I am still here. My title was given to Ugás. That is not how you become a champion. You earn it by winning it inside the ring. We will fight for the title. That is the proper way a champion is crowned.”
And what does Freddie think?
“What Manny had going for him when he fought Ledwaba was that he was unknown in the U.S. which gave us the element of surprise,” said Freddie. “I don’t remember Sanchez being considered too tough an opponent and I guess Ledwaba trained for that level of opponent. They obviously didn’t do their homework on Manny, which was lucky for us. The important lessons Manny and I learned from that fight were never underestimate your opponent, take nothing for granted, and never cut corners in training. And Manny never has. He gives it everything he has every day of every training camp and respects every opponent who is brave enough to enter a ring.”
ABOUT PACQUIAO VS. UGÁS
Pacquiao vs. Ugás will see eight-division world champion and Philippine Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao taking on WBA Welterweight World Champion Yordenis Ugás in the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View main event Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see former world champions and all-action brawlers Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero and “Vicious” Víctor Ortiz meet in a 10-round welterweight duel, unbeaten featherweight contender Mark Magsayo battle former world champion Julio Ceja in a WBC Featherweight Title Eliminator, plus undefeated contender Carlos Castro will take on former title challenger Óscar Escandón in a 10-round featherweight attraction that kicks off the pay-per-view.
How to Watch the Saturday, August 21, FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View Fight
Manny Pacquiao vs. Yordenis Ugas
Main Card: 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT
TV: Available on all major U.S. & Canadian PPV providers, including
Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Fios, and Optimum, among others (U.S.);
as well as Rogers, Bell, Shaw, SaskTel and TELUS (Canada)
iNDemand is serving as the cable and telco distributor in North America.
Ruben “Ace” Torres Stops Richard Zamora to Remain Undefeated
CORONA, CA (August 15, 2021) – Last night at the Omega Products International Event Center in Corona, CA, Thompson Boxing Promotions hosted their first show with fans in attendance, titled “We. Are. Back.” The sold-out crowd was in full effect as fans were eager to see a great night of action-packed fights.
In the 8-round main event, super lightweight prospect, Ruben “Ace” Torres (16-0, 13 KOs) scored a fifth-round knockout against Richard “Diamante” Zamora (19-5, 12 KOs). Torres was methodical in his approach as he broke down Zamora with crisp accurate punches. In the opening round, Torres rocked Zamora with a powerful left hook that set the tone for his dominating performance. Zamora, who was in great shape, didn’t have enough fire power to keep off Torres’ attack. Zamora couldn’t withstand the punches he was taking from Torres and was stopped by a left hook to the body in the fifth round.
“I felt good going into this fight because I put in the hard work during training camp,” said Torres, who is from nearby South Central, CA. “I hit Zamora with a nice shot in the first round and I knew I had him hurt, so I slowly broke him down and got the stoppage. I feel with a few more fights, I’ll be ready to step up to higher competition, but I’m still young and I’m constantly learning. I’m thankful that I’ve been able to stay busy, my promoter Thompson Boxing is doing a great job building me. I’m hoping to fight two more times before the end of the year.”
In the 6-round co-main event, hometown hero, welterweight Louie Lopez (9-1-1, 4 KOs), of Corona, Calif., defeated Demarcus Layton (8-3-1, 5 KOs) by way of unanimous decision. This was a rematch in which their first fight ended in a draw. This time, Lopez was determined to leave the ring with a victory, as he came out guns blazing from the opening round. Layton was doing his best to box and use lateral movement, as Lopez was coming forward. Both fighters were digging to the body early, but it was Lopez who was landing the more powerful shots. When the final bell rang, Lopez was crowned the victor. Scorecards read 59-55, all in favor of Lopez.
“I really wanted to get the knockout, but Layton is a tough guy, and he wasn’t going down that easy.” said Lopez, “It was great to get the win in this rematch, especially at home in front of my family and friends. I’m ready to take on all challenges and I’m looking forward to my next fight.”
In the third fight of the evening, featherweight Katsuma Akitsugi (6-0, 1 KO) defeated Dihul Olguin (15-19-4, 10 KOs), to remain unbeaten. Akitsugi outworked Olguin over six rounds by using his superior boxing skills. Olguin had his moments, but it wasn’t enough, as Akitsugi was landed more punches. Scorecards read 59-55 in favor of Akitsugi.
“With each fight I’m getting more comfortable in the ring,” stated Akitsugi. “I know I have a long way to go but I’m happy with my development. I have great trainers and soon I’ll be knocking on the door of a big fight. Right now, I’m focused on getting better in all aspects of my game.”
In the second bout of the evening, power punching super lightweight slugger, Miguel “El Explosivo” Madueño (24-0, 22 KOs), annihilated Manuel Martinez (6-4-4, 3 KOs), by way of first round knockout. A powerful left hook to the body sent Martinez to the canvas in the later part of round one.
“Even though I ended the fight in round one, I felt I took my time to land that body shot,” Madueno said. “I didn’t just come out swinging wild, I set everything up with my jab and right hand. People are going to know my name more and more with every fight that I’m in. I’m coming for everyone in my division.”
In the opening 4-round super bantamweight bout, two undefeated prospects were putting their undefeated records on the line. Alexis Alvarado (3-0, 2 KOs), of La Puente, CA, defeated Lazaro Vargas of Indio, Calif (1-1, 1 KO), by way of a majority decision. Both fighters set the tone for the night with an all-action slugfest. Alvarado landed more power punches to edge out a game Vargas. Scorecards read 39-37 twice, and 38-38.
“I knew this was going to be a tough fight,” said Alvarado. “Vargas was putting his undefeated record on the line, as was I, so I knew I had to come out aggressive with a lot of pressure. I came out on top and now it’s on to the next fight. I’m taking every fight seriously and I can’t wait to get back in the ring.”
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WORCESTER, Mass. (August 15, 2021) – Pro boxing returned to Worcester, Massachusetts last night as Rivera Promotions Entertainment (RPE) and Shearns Boxing Promotions presented “New England’s Future VII” at the famed Palladium.
“This was our first show since June 2019 and I’m very pleased,” RPE promoter Jose Antonio Rivera commented. “We had a good crowd, close to a sellout, about 1800. We had the opportunity to support a lot of local fighters. We had some good fights. I’d like to do one more show later this year.”
Undefeated heavyweight Cassius “C.O.G.” Chaney (21-0, 14 KOs), promoted by Maun Events, won a 10-round unanimous decision over game Shawndell Terell Winters (13-6, 12 KOs), a former NAB heavyweight champion, in the main event.
Chaney, fighting out of New London (CT), was a standout college basketball player at the University of New Haven. Neither fighter was hurt during the fight, although three consecutive rights from Chaney in the third round did buzz Winters.
Wildly popular Hartford fighter Richie “Popeye The Sailor” Rivera, promoted by Star Boxing, rolled to his 20th career victory without a loss, stopping Ernesto “Gatti” Berrospe Rivas (11-18, 6 KOs). All it took was one powerful right to the Mexican’s body, which came at the 2:16 mark of round one. The powerful Rivera, who is a former UBF light heavyweight and ABF Continental Americas cruiserweight champion, added the vacant NBA Intercontinental cruiserweight strap to the collection.
“I’m going to be world champion,” the charismatic Hartford fighter said after the fight. “I
?want Badou Jack next.”
R – CF.jpg Richie “Popeye The Sailor Man” Rivera was once again good to the finish
Puerto Rico Olympian Enrique Collazo (16-1-1, 11 KOs) registered knockdowns in the third and fourth rounds, the latter from a vicious body shot that hurt Colombian Ronald Montes (18-14, 16 KOs) so severely he was able to continue in round five. Collazo was crowned the NBA Intercontinental super middleweight title holder.
Puerto Rico-native Wilfredo “El Sucaro” Pagan (6-1-1, 3 KOs), fighting out of nearby Southbridge (MA), and Bridgeport’s (CT) Carlos Marrera, III (2-6-2) fought to an entertaining 6-round draw in their battle for the vacant New England Junior Welterweight Championship. The momentum moved from one fighter to the other in each round in what was the Fight of the Night.
R – NE.jpg Carlos Marrera, III (L) and Wilfredo Pagan battled to a draw
Worcester heavyweight Bryan Daniels (6-1, 4 KOs) defeated Corey Morey (1-5), who injured his left knee and unable to continue fighting. The fight was ruled a first-round TKO win for Daniels, who is a 2-time New England Golden Gloves champion.
Fighting for the first time in 3 ½ years, Worcester super middleweight Bobby “BH3” Harris (3-0-1,) worked off the rust against wild-swinging Honduran Juan Celin Zapata (6-19-2, 4 KOs) for a 4-round unanimous decision. Harris is a two-time national amateur champion and World Games Silver medalist.
Hometown favorite Demek “Hightower” Edmunds (3-0, 2 KOs), a 3-time New England Golden Gloves champion, was tested for the first time by Brazilian heavyweight Rafael De Souza (0-2). The final score (40-36 X 3) was not indicative of the competition, in which Edmunds pitched a shutout, but De Souza held his own for two rounds until college graduate Edmunds took total command in the third and fourth rounds.
Decorated Hartford amateur Angel “Set It Off” Gonzalez (5-0, 3 KOs) overcame a significant height disadvantage against his Hawaiian opponent, Richard “Hard To Hit” Bernard (1-4-1), for a hard-fought 4-round unanimous decision victory. Gonzalez is a 3-time New England Golden Gloves, 2-time Ringside Nationals and 2014 National PAL champion.
Worcester middleweight Eslih Owusu (5-0, 3 KOs) remained undefeated, decking journeyman Carlos Galindo (1-17) twice when the fight was stopped by the referee midway through the opening bell.
Promising junior middleweight Josniel “TG” Castro (4-0, 2 KOs), fighting out of Boca Raton (FL), pounded Anthony Everett (1-9) from the opening bell until the end, using crisp
combination to drop Everett twice en route to a 4-round unanimous decision (40-34 X 3).
Official results below:
OFFICIAL RESULTS
MAIN EVENT – HEAVYWEIGHTS
Cassius Chaney (21-0, 14 KOs), New London, CT
WDEC10 (98-92, 97-93, 96-94)
Shawndell Terell Winters (13-6, 12 KOs), Harvey, Il
CO-FEATURE – VACANT NBA CONTINENTAL AMERICAS CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA (August 15, 2021) — Four score and eight weight divisions ago, Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao brought forth, upon this boxing continent, a new Pacman nation, conceived in liberating world championship crowns, and dedicated to the proposition that all opponents are created equal — beaten!
IT’S FIGHT WEEK BABY!
Eight-division world champion and boxer laureate Manny Pacquiao will be challenging WBA welterweight champion Yordenis Ugás thisSaturday at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Two years ago, Manny, at age 40, tagged then undefeated WBA welterweight champion Keith Thurman with his first loss to become the oldest man to win a welterweight title. Can amazin’ Manny reclaim his title while breaking his own age record? The FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View, headlined by Pacquiao vs. Ugás, will begin at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT.
· Always the politician, when asked if switching his training preparations from southpaw Errol Spence to the orthodox style of Yordenis Ugás, 11 days before the fight, presented problems, Senator Manny Pacquiao said: “I am a bipartisan fighter who likes fighting righties and lefties equally.”
· Manny’s trainer, world-famous Freddie Roach, on celebrating 20 years together with Manny Pacquiao: “I look back to our first fight together, against IBF junior featherweight champion Lehlo Ledwaba, which took place twenty years ago and just a few weeks after we first met, and I’m still amazed. Fighters fire their trainers in good times and in bad times, it’s part of boxing. And here we are still together — longer than many marriages last. Manny is all about loyalty. He’s the greatest fighter I have ever trained. The smartest student I have ever taught. And a better friend you will never find. He brings so much joy to boxing and to the world.”
· Manny has fought all over the world, including the Philippines, the U.S., Macau, and Australia, but it’s clear, his second home, when it comes to boxing, is Las Vegas. Manny made his U.S. debut in Las Vegas when he knocked out IBF junior featherweight champion Lehlo Ledwaba in 2001. Saturday’s fight against Ugás will be his 22nd in the Fight Capital of the World, with 14 of those fights having at least one world title at stake.
· Manny has never shied away from a tough challenge. If anything defines the man’s body of work inside the boxing ring, it’s the roster of opponents Manny has faced, most in the prime of their careers, and many now in, or on their way into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. Younger, taller, heavier, that never mattered to Manny. His philosophy — if you are going to fight for world titles in eight different weight classes, you’d better be prepared to accept a few Forget-Me-Knots. Here are Manny’s career victory highlights: Marco Antonio Barrera (2X), Juan Manuel Márquez (2X), Erik Morales (2X), Oscar De La Hoya, Ricky Hatton, Miguel Cotto,Timothy Bradley (2X), Shane Mosley, Antonio Margarito, and Keith Thurman. Collectively, they had a combined record of 415-28 — a winning percentage of 94% — when he defeated them or the first time he defeated them.
ABOUT PACQUIAO VS. UGÁS
Pacquiao vs. Ugás will see eight-division world champion and Philippine Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao taking on WBA Welterweight World Champion Yordenis Ugás in the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View main event Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see former world champions and all-action brawlers Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero and “Vicious” Víctor Ortiz meet in a 10-round welterweight duel, unbeaten featherweight contender Mark Magsayo battle former world champion Julio Ceja in a WBC Featherweight Title Eliminator, plus undefeated contender Carlos Castro will take on former title challenger Óscar Escandón in a 10-round featherweight attraction that kicks off the pay-per-view.
How to Watch the Saturday, August 21, FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View Fight
Manny Pacquiao vs. Yordenis Ugas
Main Card: 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT
TV: Available on all major U.S. & Canadian PPV providers, including
Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Fios, and Optimum, among others (U.S.);
as well as Rogers, Bell, Shaw, SaskTel and TELUS (Canada)
iNDemand is serving as the cable and telco distributor in North America.
LIVE VIDEO: Rigondeaux vs. Casimero: Post-Fight Press Conference | SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING
Casimero Decisions Rigondeaux to Retain Bantamweight crown in Dreadful contest
John Riel Casimero retained the WBO Bantamweight Title with a 12-round split decision over Guillermo Rigondeaux in a fight void of action at the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.
Casimero tried to make the fight, but Rigondeaux just backpaddled for most of the fight and less than 90 punches were landed between the two fighters.
Rigondeaux landed 44 of 221 punches; Casimero was 47 of 297.
Casimero, 118 lbs of the Philippines won by scores of 117-111 and 116-112 while Rigondeaux took a card 115-113.
Casimero is 31-4. Rigondeaux, 117.4 lbs of Cubs is 20-2.
JOHN RIEL CASIMERO
“I’m excited to get the win. Rigondeaux is a good boxer and two-time Olympic gold medalist. I was worried, because he said he wouldn’t run, but he ran the whole time. I thought I got the knockdown in the first round too.
“My expectations were for a knockout. Me and all my fans wanted that. I did my best to knock him out, but he was just running and not fighting.
“I had a three-fight plan. First was Rigondeaux, and I beat him. Next is Nonito Donaire and then finally Naoya Inoue.”
GUILLERMO RIGONDEAUX
“Nobody wants to fight with me because I frustrate them in the ring. I landed the punches that I needed to in order to win the fight tonight. This is how I win.
“I have these God-given skills and this is the way I display them. I’m a unique fighter. It’s my style and it’s the only one I know.
“You can see I’m still better than anyone else in the light weight classes and I’m going to keep fighting.”
Russell and Rodriguez ends in a no-contest
Gary Antonio Russell and Emmanuel Rodriguez ended in a no-contest after a headbutt opened up a bad cut on Rodriguez.
GARY ANTONIO RUSSELL
“It happens. I was looking to establish my jab and I tried to set up a hook, and he came in at the same time. It’s very disappointing.
“I was actually in camp for about four months. I prepared great for this fight. I was really looking to broadcast my talents and show everyone what’s in my arsenal. Unfortunately the headbutt happened.
“Of course I would like to come right back. If he can do it, I want to get right back in there with Rodriguez.”
EMMANUEL RODRIGUEZ
“I feel okay. I’m a little frustrated after putting in all this work for the fight to end so quickly with nothing happening.
“With the headbutt, maybe if there was no blood, we would have been able to continue. But once I saw all the blood, I knew it was over.
“I don’t want to lose the condition that I’m in. I prepared really hard for this fight. As soon as the injury is fixed, I’ll be back in the ring and I’d like to fight Russell again.”
Warren Takes out Vazquez in 2
Former world champion Rau’She Warren took out Damien Vazquez in round two of their 10-round bantamweight bout.
In round one, Warren dropped Vazquez with a right hook. Vazquez was not up for long as seconds later, he was sent to the deck for a second time from another right hook. In round two, Warren dropped Vazquez again with a perfect straight right to the jaw and the fight was stopped at 2:18
Warren, 117.4 lbs of Cincinnati, OH is 21-3 with five knockouts. Vazquez, 117.2 lbs of Las Vegas is 16-3.
Rau’shee Warren
“I was trying to show them something different this time around. I have always had the power but this training camp was very different. I was sitting on my punches and working on something different. It worked in the ring.
“I always knew I had that power and I always knew I had that speed. It’s just about taking your time in the ring and letting them come. When I saw the opportunity, I went for it.
“Next fight is a title fight. I am the number one contender for the WBA. I want to thank Al Haymon for putting me in this position. I want to thank my team for pushing me. They know what kind of fighter I am. I guess these next few years, I am going to be champion. Next fight I am grabbing that title. Maybe I will fight the winner of the main event tonight (Rigondeaux vs. Casimero).”
“I proved tonight that I’m ready for a big fight. Now it’s back home and back to the gym and back to the drawing board.
“My corner told me to slow down in the second round and just let it come. I was just trying to let him get comfortable and as soon as I did that I caught him with the left hand.”
In a non-televised bout, Brandun Lee from La Quinta, Calif., improved to 23-0 with 21 KOs in his California debut as he knocked out Ezequiel Fernandez (28-5-1, 3 KOs) three times in the opening round. “Of course it was good, but could have been better,” said Lee whose fight was called off at 1:40 of the first round. “There’s always room to improve but at the end of the day we got the job done. I’ve been putting dudes to sleep so you’re right, it’s only right for me to step up the competition and go to world-class SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING.”
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LIVE VIDEO: Manny Pacquiao works out 7 Days before Ugas Fight
Franco Decisions Moloney; Retains Super Flyweight Belt
Joshua Franco retained the WBA Super Flyweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Andrew Moloney in their trilogy fight at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Franco landed 168 of 772 punches; Moloney was 107 of 730.
Franco of San Antonio, Texas won by scores of 116-112 on all cards and is now 18-1-2. Moloney of Melbourne, Australia is 21-2.
Franco said, “I had to switch it up on him. He thought I was going to put pressure on him the whole time. That wasn’t working, so I had to switch it up and go to my boxing skills.
“I had fun with my rhythm, with my jab, my feet. I’m comfortable in there, and that’s what I did.
“We just told each other, all that talking is part of the game, part of building the fight up. He’ll be world champion again. He’s a strong fighter. Nothing but respect to him. I wish him the best in his career.”
Moloney said, “I’ll have to use this as motivation to come back stronger. It’s going to be a long road back.”
Muhammad Ali’s Grandson; Nico Ali Walsh scores 1st round KO in Debut
The Grandson of Muhammad Ali, Nico Ali Walsh made a successful pro debut with a 1st round stoppage over Jordan Weeks in a scheduled four round middleweight bout.
Walsh dropped Weeks with a nice counter right hand. Walsh finished off Weeks with a flurry of punches, and the bout was stopped.
Walsh of Las Vegas is 1-0 with one knockout. Weeks of Lexington, SC is 4-2.
Ali Walsh said, “This lived up completely to my expectations. It’s been an emotional journey this whole ride these last couple of months.
“Obviously, my grandfather, I’m thinking about him so much. I miss him. It’s just an emotional journey, and thank you to Jordan Weeks and his people. Tough, tough kid. I think me and him made a little bit of history tonight.
“Honestly, it seems like a lot of pressure, but to me, it’s just my grandfather. To everyone else, to you guys and the crowd, he’s the greatest fighter who ever lived, maybe the greatest person. But to me, he’s the greatest grandfather.
“To hear those Ali chants was something that I’ll never forget. I didn’t expect that, to be honest, but it was special.”
Barboza Decisions Moran
Arnold Barboza Jr. won a 10-round unanimous decision over Antonio Moran in a junior welterweight bout.
Barboza landed 278 of 702 punches; Moran was 82 of 823.
Barboza of South El Monte, California won by scores of 99-91 twice and 98-92 to go to 26-0. Moran of Mexico City is 26-5-1.
Barboza said, “Moran is a true Mexican warrior. I thought I’d get the knockout, but he ate a lot of punches. My goal is to get that world title shot, but I am going to keep going until I make that a reality. I want any of the big names at 140 pounds.”
Jason Moloney won a 10-round unanimous decision over Joshua Greer in a bantamweight bout.
Moloney of Melbourne, AUS won by scores of 98-92 twice and 96-94 and is now 22-2. Greer of Chicago, IL is 22-3-2.
Trey Lippe-Morrison went the distance for the first time in his career, but remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Don Haynesworth in a heavyweight bout.
Morrison of Tulsa, Oklahoma won by scores of 60-54 on all cards and is now 18-0. Haynesworth is 16-7-1.
Karlos Balderas stopped Fidel Cervantes in round two of a scheduled six-round junior lightweight bout.
In round one, Balderas landed a booming left hook that he followed up with three vicious shots that sent Cervantes to the deck. The assault continued in round two as Balderas continues to land blistering combinations that forced the stoppage at 2:03
Balderas, 131.6 lbs of Santa Maria, CA is now 10-1 with nine knockouts. Cervantes, 131.6 lbs of Kansas City, KS is 9-2-1.
Balderas said, “I’m back and better than ever. Even with this victory, I have things to work on. I’m going straight back to the gym to get ready for the next one. Thanks to Top Rank for the opportunity and my manager, Sam Katkovski, for making this happen. I’m only getting started.”
Andres Cortes knocked out former world title challenger Genesis Servania in the opening round of their lightweight bout.
In the opening frame, Cortes landed a perfect right that hurt Servania. Cortes followed with a perfect left hook that sent Servania to the deck and the fight was stopped at 3:00.
Cortes, 133 lbs of Las Vegas is 15-0 with eight knockouts. Servania, 132.8 lbs of the Philippines is 34-3.
World-Ranked Albert Bell remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Julio Cortez in a lightweight bout.
In round four, the right eye of Cortez began to close.
Bell, 132.8 lbs of Toledo, OH won by scores of 80-72 on all cards, and is now 19-0. Cirtez, 132.4 lbs of Ecuador is 15-3.
Bell said, “I knew he was a tough, aggressive fighter who was going to come forward all night. I’m happy with my performance, and I look forward to fighting my way to a title shot.”
Abraham Nova remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Richard Pumicpic in a featherweight bout.
Nova, 127.2 lbs of Albany, NY won by scores of 79-73 twice and 78-74 is now 20-0. Pumicpic, 127.1 lbs of Manila, PHL is 22-12-2.
Ortiz gets Buzzed; Stops Kavaliauskas in 8
Vergil Ortiz Jr. fough through adversity, but showed he is a legitimate contender to comeback and stop former world title challenger in round eight of their scheduled 12-round welterweight bout at the Star in Frisco, Texas.
In round two, Kavaiauskas hurt Ortz with a right hand, and set off a fiery exchange that looked like it sent Ortiz to the canvas but it was ruled a slip. In round three, Kavaliauskas hurt Ortiz again with a right hand, but this time Ortiz came off the ropes and fired off a left hook that sent Kavaliauskas to the canvas.
In round eight, Ortiz dropped Kavaliauskas three times. The first was a left hook to the body. The next two were from hard left hooks to the head and the fight was stopped at
Ortiz, 147 lbs of Grand Prairie, TX is 18-0 with 18 knockouts. Kavaliauskas, 146.1 lbs of Lithuania is 22-2-1.
Ortiz said, “I feel good. The fight started off slow in my opinion and I just had to adjust. After the second round, I had to adjust and try to find a way to wear him down. I started using my jab more and fought more intelligently. After the third round, I felt more confident because I knew that I could control the fight moving forward. But he is a tough guy, a very strong fighter, and I respect that he came to fight.”
“I came here to fight, I was sure I would stop him. I prepared myself so hard to be ready for this fight. I was 100% in shape, I was fast, I was strong. But you know, it is what it is, today he was stronger, he is a tremendous fighter. He has good power and good speed, good jab, good technique, he is a good fighter. I was thinking that I was going to end the fight in the second round, but he survived. He is a warrior,” said Kavaliauskas.
Gutierrez Decisions Alvarado; Retains 130 lb Title
Roger Gutierrez defended the WBA Super Featherweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision from the man he won the belt from Rene Alvarado in their trilogy bout.
Gutierrez, 130 lbs of Venezuela won by scores of 116-112 twice and 115-113 and is now 26-3-1. Alvarado, 129.2 lbs is 32-10.
“I hurt my right hand, it was very inconvenient because I feel like I could have ended the fight earlier. But I want to thank god we were victorious and that is the most important thing. I know Rene is a warrior, but we had a good fight today and we are happy to take on the next challenge, and perhaps fight Leo Santa Cruz,” said Gutierrez.
Alvarado stated, “I feel like I dominated the majority of the fight. I do not feel like the decision was fair. In the last round, I did get the cut on my left eye and I couldn’t see, but I know that I closed those two rounds.”
Alvarado Destroys Vazquez in 1
Light-Flyweight world champion Felix Alvarado destroyed late-replacement Israel Vazquez in the opening round of their scheduled 10-round non-title bout.
Alvarado landed a hard counter right that sent Vazquez down and out at 2:50.
Alvarado, 107.6 lbs of Managua, NIC is 37-2 with 32 knockouts. Vazquez, 107.6 lbs of Bayamon, PR is 10-5-2.
“I did feel a little unstable with the change of opponents and of course I would love to fight Eric Lopez, but unfortunately that didn’t happen due to the visa issues. Fortunately, we had a good training camp and we were prepared for Israel. Luckily the fight ended early enough where he wasn’t injured and I wasn’t injured,” said Alvarado.
Rincon Decisions Buzolin
George Rincon remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Nikolai Buzolin in a welterweight bout.
Rincon, 142.2 lbs of Dallas, TX won by scores of 80-72 on all cards and is now 12-0. Buzolin, 143 lbs of Brooklyn, NY is 8-4-1.
“He was a shorter fighter with a very awkward style and I had to be careful with those looping hands. There were a few things that I wish that I could have made more clear during the fight, but his style didn’t really help. Just happy that I was able to be here, fight in my hometown, in front of my friends and family. Glad we got the win and I plan to go back to the gym and keep getting better,” said Rincon.
Alex Martin won a 10-round unanimous decision over Josec Ruiz in a super welterweight bout.
Martin, 137 lbs of Chicago is 17-3. Ruiz, 135.4 lbs of Miami, FL is 23-5-3.
Martin said, “I knew that I hurt him with that body shot in the last round and he started to fold over. I still could have followed up with more body shots, but I am happy I got the win. I am ready to come back. I am motivated and just thankful to God for the opportunity.”
Alex Rincon remained undefeated with a eight-round unanimous decision over Sanny Duversonne in a middleweight contest.
Rincon, 153.4 lbs of Dallas, TX win by scores of 80-72, 79-73 and 78-74 and is now 9-0. Duversonne, 154.8 lbs of Avon Park, FL is 11-4-2.
“He was a tough warrior, you have to respect him. I knew he was going to be a durable fighter. I also knew that I needed to use my jab to counter his jab and set up the shot. But I feel good, I think it was about time I got some war wounds so people can believe I am a fighter,” said Rincon.
LIVE FIGHTS: Tijuana Nights Boxing
LIVE BOXING: ORTIZ JR. – KAVALIAUSKAS UNDERCARD
LIVE BOXING: Showdown In A-Town feat.Lorenzo “Truck” Simpson &Darren “The Gift” Cunningham
Split-T Management’s Abraham Nova Back in Action against Richard Pumicpic in Tulsa, Oklahoma
NEW YORK (August 14, 2021) -Tonight at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Tulsa, Oklahoma, undefeated Abraham Nova returns to the ring after nearly a 14-month absence when he takes on Richard Pumicpic in a featherweight bout scheduled for eight-rounds.
Nova is managed by Split-T Management.
Nova, 27 year-old of Albany, New York has a record of 19-0 with 14 knockouts.
The five-year professional is looking to return off his 10-round unanimous decision over Avery Sparrow (10-1) on June 25th, 2020.
Nova also has quality wins over Weusi Johnson (1-0), Martin Nicholas Matamala (9-2), Andres Zepata (7-1), Hassan Nourdine (9-2), Sulaiman Segawa (11-1), Brian Pelaez (9-2), Mario Lozano (18-2-1) and Luis Renaldo Castillo (20-3). With the wins over Castillo, Nova won the NABA Super Featherweight title.
Pumicpic of Manilla, Philippines has a record of 22-11-2 with seven knockouts.
The 31 year-old Pumicpic is a 13 year-professional who will be making his United States debut.
He has fought all over the globe, which includes stops in The Philippines, Thailand, Japan and Mexico.
Pumicpic is a former WBC Youth Silver Bantamweight champion, WBC International Super Bantamweight champion and WBO Asia Pacific Featherweight champion
He has wins over Viviencio Urcia (1-0), Diarh Gabutan (5-0-3), Nattaphong Panpaew (9-0-1), Junior Bajawa (14-1-1), Joe Noynay (10-0-1), Hisashi Amagasa (33-6-2) and Yoshimitsu Kimura (9-0). Pumipic is coming off a 6th round stoppage over Landy Cris Leon on May 1st in the Philippines.
At Friday’s weigh-in, Nova was 127.2 lbs. Pumicpic was 127.4
The fight will be streamed on ESPN+ beginning at 6 PM ET.
Nova is promoted by Top Rank.
Buatsi Stops Bolotniks in 11
Joshua Buatsi stopped Ricards Bolotniks in round 11 of a scheduled 12-round light heavyweight bout at the Matchroom HQ in Essex, England
In round six, Buatsi dropped Bolotniks with a vicious left hook.
In round eight, Buatsi was deducted a point for a low blow. In round 11, Buatsi landed a booming right that sent Bolotniks to the deck and the fight was stopped at 2:08.
Buatsi, 174 3/4 lbs of Croydon, ENG is 15-0 with 13 knockouts. Bolotniks, 174 1/2 lbs of Riga, LAT is 18-6-1.
“Most importantly I have to thank God for the victory, different fighters have different things that work for them, I made it clear to you lot that that’s what works for me,” Buatsi told DAZN. “In my changing room I don’t need to hear anything, don’t tell me what I did in camp, tell me Josh is written in the bible. That’s what gears me up when I walk down there, what’s written in the bible.
“I’m grateful man, Bolotniks big credit to him he pushed me. I think he said Josh hasn’t been past seven rounds before so after seven we’ll see. I was there until 11 and landed a good shot. I worked every round, but I want to congratulate him – he’s a good champion.
“When I sat down, I said, ‘Buatsi who told you to empty the tank, you’ve got six left?’ but I’ve worked hard. You see in camp the sparring is hard man, big credit to my sparring partners they know who they are. I do a hard six run then a fresh one gets in so into the second half I said I’ve been here: I’ve done it before I’ve been here many times in camp.
“I’ve got a great team, I’ve got a promoter that believes in me, he’s been pushing for fights like this because he knows I can do it. Tonight, I went out there and showed people I can do it, we just build from here.
“We all make sacrifices, I don’t want to single myself out, everyone sacrifices to be where they want to be in life. For me, yeah, I sacrificed, I’m always away from my family and I truly miss them but most importantly I want to get to the top. I feel like I’m in the right team with the right people, I’ve got a great promoter who gives me the opportunities I need. I’ll keep sacrificing.”
Cordina Destroys Hernandez in 1st
Joe Cordina needed just 53 seconds to dispose of Joshua Hernandez in a scheduled 10-round lightweight bout.
Cordina landed a blistering 1-2 that sent Hernandez down for the 10-count.
Cordina, 134 lbs of Cardiff, WAL is 13-0 with eight knockouts. Hernandez, 132 3/4 lbs of Chicago, IL is 10-4.
“Chris Colbert went eight rounds with Hernandez and what I watched of it, it was quite a tough fight for him,” Cordina told Matchroom. “I watched that fight and a couple others of Hernadez and me and Tony came up with a game plan. We were going through in the changing rooms, and it came off a peach.
“I had to prove a point, I said in an interview earlier in the week that I don’t take criticism from people I wouldn’t go to for advice. I don’t really value many people’s opinions so yeah, it’s one of those things, you’re going to get people criticizing and it’s whether you take it onboard or not. A lot of people didn’t take into consideration that I’d been out the ring for 16 months, had an operation of my hand, we proved the point tonight and got him out of there early on.
“I always look to just get the win, box, if the knockout is there, I’ll take it. As soon as he threw his first jab, I knew he wasn’t going to catch me with that, my sharpness of feet and head movement would get me out of trouble. I started putting my lead hand downstairs and whipping the right hand over the top and I caught him the first time, I knew he was a little bit wobbly. I didn’t want to rush in and try and get him out of there straight away, I knew if I could catch him twice with it there’s going to be a third time and I did exactly that. We got him out of there in great fashion.
“I was watching Fight Camp last year and there was no crowd, but even when there wasn’t a crowd it felt like there was a massive atmosphere. When I saw the first Fight Camp week at home, I thought, ‘oh my god I’m fighting there in two weeks, it’s going to be amazing’. I’m glad that I’m able to tick it of my list now.
“Eddie watched me in York Hall in 2009 and said, ‘you’re going to be a World Champion’. It’s nice to hear that but I’ve got to keep improving, keep pushing on and proving him right. I know I’ve got the ability to be a World Champion very soon, but I’ve just got to keep winning. I’ve got the ability to mix it with any of them, it’s just about taking those steps up the ladder to become a World Champion and that’s what I plan on doing. Maybe have two weeks at home, go back to the gym and see what I want to do with Tony.
“I know people say it but if you speak to my S&C coach and Tony this was probably one of the best camps I’ve ever had. That’s with the boxing, plus my S&C, everything just came together. Don’t get me wrong I had to be at home for my new-born son but everything’s coming together now. I’m glad I got the win tonight in great fashion and now it’s time to build on it.”
World-Rated welterweight Michael McKinson remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Przemyslaw Runowki.
McKinson, 146 1/2 lbs of Portsmouth, ENG won by scores of 99-91 twice and 98-92 and is now 21-0. Runowski, 146 1/4 lbs of Shupsk, POL is 19-2.
“I’m happy, that was easier than I thought it would be, I didn’t really get out of first gear,” McKinson told Matchroom. “I visibly hurt him a few times, but I boxed to instructions and got the win. To be fair I didn’t think he won a round against me, but he was a tough guy. Him and his team were very confident beforehand, I liked the energy they brought all week, but I just had to show I was a level above, and I was a few levels above – I’m happy.
“They keep giving me harder opposition, they keep telling me it’s a step up and I’m making it look easier and easier. What people forget is I’m learning every day on the job as well; I’m developing and who knows where I can be in a year or twos time. I’m in a position where a lot of boxers dream of being in, all I can do it stay focused, keep learning and keep working my way to the top.
“First time on the A side you know, not many people can say they’ve boxed in Gibraltar and not many people can say they’ve boxed in Eddie’s back garden and done both this year. I can’t moan or complain, I’m really happy and blessed.
“2021 and my career has just started, 21-0 and making it look easy. I really want to keep stepping up, keep challenging myself, keep having more and more tests. I’m still learning but I’m learning quick and finding it easy now. I want opponents that will make me step through the gears, a few times I hurt him there like I can punch, I don’t need to, I boxed to instructions. I didn’t really get out of first gear.
“I believe I’m the best 147 pounder in the country. I like Conor, I get on well with him, but if he can’t get them two guys the Brooks or the Khans, I’m always here. I’ll fight whoever they give me, I’ve never turned down a fight and that’s a fact – I don’t plan on turning down fights. I really do believe in myself, and I believe in my development as well. I’m going to be going to the top I promise you.
“I’m really happy for Liam Taylor because he never really gets a fair ranking and he’s a good fighter so I’m happy he’s got that opportunity. I’m not far behind, I’d like the winner, but I’ll fight whoever makes sense and whoever my management team want to get me next – the answer is always yes. That guy there I just beat took Josh Taylor to points on short notice, he had a full camp against me, his team were so confident talking to me in the hotel.
“Like I said, I make their confidence fade round by round, they don’t call me ‘The Problem’ for no reason. I will carry on being a problem as I step through the levels as the opposition gets better, trust me.
“Josh Kelly has got a lot of ability, he’s a skilful fighter, I like Josh – even after the Avanesyan defeat I still think he’s a top fighter. Florian Marku talks a lot doesn’t he, he didn’t know who I was a few months ago on social media on an interview, he said he didn’t know who I was. At least they’re talking about me now, let him prove himself because I don’t think he’s proved himself at a decent level yet, not saying he’s not a good fighter, but he does need to prove himself as a fighter to be respected. Good luck to all of them, I wish nothing but the best for all my rivals, you know I’m here and I’ll fight anybody.
“Even when we go back to proper arenas and stuff, wait till we get hundreds and hundreds of Portsmouth fans loud and proud. I’ve got great support and it’s always growing; I know there’s a lot of people that didn’t come today but when they’re allowed everyone will see the Portsmouth fans.”
In a battle of undefeated super bantamweights, Hopey Price won a six-round decision over Claudio Grande.
In the closing seconds of the fight, Price dropped Grande with a straight left.
Price, 123 1/4 lbs of Leeds, ENG won by a 58-55 score and is now 5-0. Grande, 121 1/2 lbs of Massa, ITA is now 5-1.
“It was a good performance, considering I had six months outside the ring, which for a young prospect like me isn’t ideal,” Price told Matchroom. “You can spar as much as you want but it’s not the same feeling as when you’re under the lights. Now looking forward, I’ve got Leeds in three weeks, that’s put me in very good stead – you’ll see the best of me in three weeks’ time.
“I remember Dave [Coldwell] shouting at me finish strong, finish strong, and he was just coming in – what we’ve been working on in the gym – I felt like I was catching him with that shot all fight and he just walked onto it lovely at the end and he was gone.
“I’m not fighting these journeyman and people with losing records, that’s a proper fight, he’s 5-0, three knockouts, I’m sure he wanted to be a star over there in Italy. He was coming to win and was defeated, I put a stop to that and gave him his first loss.
“You began to see it, it’s been coming slowly but surely, now over the next year or so you’ll see the best of me.
“I feel like I’m developing more as a fighter under Dave and more as a man – big thanks to Danny Wilson at Boxing Science, he’s making me a lot stronger, and I think you saw it there in the last ten seconds. I’m not just a young kid that people can walk through.
“I want to go right to the top. I don’t want to be a World Champion; I want to be a pound-for-pound star and Dave’s the man to take me there. I’ll keep listening, learning, developing and I promise you I will get there one day.
“I think fighting in Leeds on September 4 shows the confidence and ability – and the confidence my team has in me – to take a fight like that three weeks before and coming through with flying colours, no injuries. I’m ready to go in my hometown in front of 20,00 fans, I’ll steal the show there 100%.
“I’m ready for Zahid Hussain, 100%, I was ready for it back in September and the magic man didn’t turn up. So, we’ll see this time if he comes and if he does, I promise Hopey Price will come out the victor.
“I said it from my second pro fight, I believe there are levels to boxing and my boxing brain is one of the best in Britain. I believe I’m levels above Zahid Hussain.”
Kash Farooq won a 10-round unanimous decision over Luis Gerardo Castillo in a bantamweight bout.
In round five, Farooq was cut under his right eye and Castillo had swelling under his right eye from a headbutt.
Farooq, 117 1/2 lbs of Glasgow, SCO won by scores of 100-90 twice and 100-91 and is now 16-1. Castillo, 116 1/4 lbs of Mexico is 28-3.
“I boxed to the game plan, that was it, you want to get in there and always entertain but I followed the game plan that was it,” Farooq told Matchroom. “I listened to my trainer, and he just told me to box, you couldn’t get any footage of him, so I didn’t know what he was about, I adapted on the night and did what I had to do.
“I showed tonight the other side of me that can box as well. He’s not world class but it’s a different side of my boxing that I showed, he was tough and game. We didn’t know what we were up against.
“If you let anybody hit you, they can punch, he had a bit of sting to his punches, but the name of the game is hit and don’t get hit and that’s what I did in this fight.
“He [Gerardo] can’t speak and can’t hear so it’s something different, people were saying he’s come to win, and this was going to change his life, these types of boys want to win but he was up against me so – I wanted to win as much as he did.
“These boys are coming from nothing, some of them grew up in poverty and it’s a different lifestyle in Mexico – they fight for a living to make their lives better. It’s either me or him and it wasn’t going to be me today.
“It was another learning fight for me, and I’ll progress again, it’s something I picked up – for me it’s just about developing and getting better. This is just another clinical performance by me.
“My job is just to fight, and they tell me what route they’re going to go through. If I had a choice I’d fight [McGregor] but it’s down to them and they’ll make the right decision for me.
“He wants to fight just like I do but he’s got managers telling him what the best options are like I do as well. The next few weeks my managers are going to sit down with Eddie and discuss what the best options are and what route to go down – if it’s that one next then I’m more than happy to take it.
“It is a big fight for Scotland, me and Lee can sell out the SSE Hydro, if it’s the right time and it has a good build me, we can do it. It’s just me and him boxing each other.
“For me I’ll take a few days off but it’s back to training. When I’ll really take some time off is when I call it a day and retire. Now I’ve still got levels to progress, go back to the gym and work on things, it’s a lifestyle in boxing and it a short career, you don’t know when retirement is coming. For me I’m going to put everything into boxing for the next few years of my life.”
Raymond Ford remained undefeated as he stopped Reece Bellotti in round three of a scheduled 10-round featherweight bout.
In round three, Ford landed a right hook that staggered Bellotti. Ford was all over Bellotti and landed a bout 15 unanswered shots and the fight was stopped at 39 seconds.
Ford, 126 lbs of Camden, NJ is 9-0-1 with five knockouts. Bellotti, 125 1/4 lbs of Watford, ENG is 14-5.
“In the third round I was going to start to box and slow it down because I was throwing too many fast, hard shots to hurt him early,” Ford told Matchroom. “My team told me to settle down because we had ten rounds to go and then he came on and ran into the shot. I knew if I didn’t get him out of there when I had him hurt, he was just going to be a tough guy and keep coming forward. When I hit my shot, I had to get him out of there.
“It feels great, one of my dreams that came true, the real dream and goal is to get to these World Championship titles.
“I knew that he [Bellotti] was kind of the bully and everything so I wanted to beat the bully in the fight. I heard a lot about his power, guys saying his power was up there at the top, I just wanted to show I can be a bigger bully and that’s what I did.
“I said yesterday that I was going to handle the pressure. I was just starting to warm up and settle in but the more the fight would have went, the more you would have seen me relaxed and be sharper. I was getting hit by some dumb shots but that was because I was warming up and getting a feel of everything – being back after five months.
“I love it in the UK, all week people have been showing me love so I want to come back and fight here again. I want to be one the greatest to ever do it, not just in my division, I just want to be the best and go down as a legend.
“It’s important to be patient but I feel like I have the skills and I was blessed with the talents I have where I can fight these top guys at a young age. I want to keep stepping up and get these tougher fights.”
Zelfa Barrett stopped Viorel Simion after round five of their scheduled eight-round lightweight bout.
In round one, Barrett dropped Simion with a body shot. Barrett continued to punish Simion and the fight was stopped after round five.
Barrett, 136 1/4 lbs of Manchester, ENG is 26-1 with 16 knockouts. Simion, 139 3/4 lbs of Romania is 22-7.
“It was good to get back out there, a long layoff since February, an active fighter is a god fighter,” Barrett told Matchroom. “As you guys know, my mum passed away in June, so we’ve had a lot going on. I wanted to just go in there and tear him apart, professionally, but they put the reigns on me. Sometimes I was eager to go and wanted to unload on him, but my uncle is the greatest coach, I just listened to what he was saying. He was taking punishment and he didn’t continue the fight. I was putting more pressure on and letting my hands go.
“It’s a thing of believing in yourself, I know I’ve got the punch power and when you hit correct it hurts anybody. We were working on it with the body pad before we came out and the shots just landed, and he went down. The right body shot would hurt any man, so it was about following what I’ve been practicing in the changing rooms – good performance after a long layoff.
“There are some good fighters on this card, I believe I’m one of the best fighters in Britain aside your World Champions, I believe it and I believe in myself otherwise I wouldn’t be here. That fight had to finish like that, if it went 8 rounds, I’d have to be questioning myself as a fighter that’s going to be world champion.
“He wasn’t able to continue, he quit, no disrespect to him but he quit. Making a man quit is better than any knockout because his brain hasn’t shut down, the ref hasn’t jumped in, he’s physically quit. Good little fight, good little stoppage.
“I’m doing it for myself because I want to be a successful man, that’s all I want to be, believe in God and God will make that happen. I’ve got more motivation, my beautiful daughter Amelia and my beautiful mum on me, my brother, and my cousin Wayne, I’ve got three angels watching me. Onto the next one now and thanks to everyone for watching.
“It was better than nothing, I would love to be on about 8 o’clock just looking out, it just brings something out of a fighter that you didn’t think you had. I don’t know, I just love it, you can’t buy that, that feeling that you get, that’s when I’ve had my best performances when there are crowds, and I can feel their energy.
“I’d love that fight [Kiko] in Manchester, I respect Kiko as a person, he’s a cool guy. He believed he won, I know I won, the judges thought I won. We can run it again because I want to, not because anyone else wants to, but because I want to. We can run that again and I’ll look good doing it.
“I’ve just got to keep doing what I’m doing, don’t get me wrong the European Titles out there I’d love to get, because you know you’re ready for that jump. We can’t cherry pick, Eddie’s a man who gives you opportunities and you’ve got to be ready. I’d love a shot at the European, but now I’m just going to rest, spend time with my beautiful daughter. Daddy’s a champ and I’m her champ, on to the next.”
LIVE BOXING: Before The Bell: Fight Camp Undercard – Zelfa Barrett vs Viorel Simion & Ray Ford vs Reece Bellotti
FIGHT NIGHT RESULTS, QUOTES FOR BELLATOR 264: MOUSASI VS. SALTER
c-Gegard Mousasi (48-7-2) defeated #1-John Salter (18-5) via TKO (punches) at 2:07 of round three
Gegard Mousasi following retaining his middleweight title:
“He’s a southpaw so everything is more difficult. It was a little bit more difficult to get my punches in, but other than that I felt good. I’m way stronger than people think. Maybe I look skinny but I’m a lot stronger and physically I was the stronger guy in there. On top, I felt like I could just pressure him, put my weight on him and hurt him with my punches. Make him feel the pressure. It was a five-rounder so in my mind, I’m saying ‘Okay, don’t do everything now because we can go five.’”
Andrey Koreshkov following his return to the BELLATOR MMA Cage:
“I try to show everybody that I’m here, I can compete, and I can beat anyone. I think I’m one of the top fighters in this division. In my opinion, I must fight with somebody for the third, second or first place. I’m open to anybody. It doesn’t matter. Neiman Gracie, Jason Jackson, Paul Daley, Michael “Venom” Page – anybody!”
“I’ve never claimed to be the best wrestler in MMA, but y’all better stop sleeping on my wrestling. I’m a two-time national champion for a reason. Ain’t nobody stopping me in the wrestling division. I’m the best wrestler in the division.”
7-Davion Franklin (4-0) defeated Everett Cummings (15-1) via KO (punches) at :21 of round one
Davion Franklin has his sights set on fellow BELLATOR heavyweight Cheick Kongo:
“I was just thinking about putting him out. Getting him out in the first round. That was my goal this whole time. I learned just to keep going. By the way, I heard Cheick Kongo commented under Everett Cummings’ Instagram post saying that Everett’s gonna’ tap me out. Hey Cheick Kongo, step up, you’ll get done the same way, if not worse.”
Khadzhi Bestaev (11-4) defeated Ty Gwerder (5-3) via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
Khadzhi Bestaev had this to say following a successful BELLATOR debut:
“He was bigger than me and very tough, but I knew he was going to gas out. He started gassing out in the second or third round, but I’m still surprised by the decision. I thought it was a draw or maybe a split-decision. But I have to see the fight. In my head, he kicked and punched me so many times so hats off to him. He didn’t give up. I just dropped him a couple of times and that was the difference.”
Preliminary Card:
Pam Sorenson (9-3) defeated Roberta Samad (5-1) via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
Jeffrey Glossner (3-2) defeated Sebastian Ruiz (2-4) via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28-29-28)
Jon McNeil (1-0) defeated Orlando Mendoza (0-1) via TKO (punches) at 3:57 of round three
Please visit Bellator.com for additional information.
About BELLATOR
BELLATOR MMA is a leading global mixed martial arts and kickboxing 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.
EIGHTS FROM CORONA TORRES vs. ZAMORA Saturday August 14, 2021
Ruben Torres 141 vs. Richard Zamora 140.6 Loui Lopez 147 vs. Demarcus Layton 146.8 Katsuma Akitsumgi 124.5 vs. Dihul Olguin 125.6 Miguel Angel Madueño 143.4 vs. Manuel Martinez 143.8 Lazaro Vargas 119.9 vs. Alexis Alvarado 120.2 ? Tickets priced at $50, $75, & $100, and are available for purchase by calling 714-935-0900, or online at ThompsonBoxing.com. This event will take place at the Omega Products International Event Center in Corona, CA. Doors open at 5:00 pm PT with the first fight starting at 7:00 pm PT.
The free stream will air live on the Thompson Boxing Promotions website (www.thompsonboxing.com), as well as their Facebook and YouTube pages.
“NEW ENGLAND’S FUTURE VII” OFFICIAL WEIGHTS
WORCESTER, Mass. (August 13, 2021) – The “New England’s Future VII” official weigh in was held today at Whiskey At Water for tomorrow’s night’s pro boxing event at the famed Palladium in Worcester, Massachusetts.
“New England’s Future VII” is presented by Rivera Promotions Entertainment (RPE) and Shearns Boxing Promotions. Doors open at 6 p.m. ET, first bout 7 p.m. ET.
Tickets, priced at $70.00 (ringside), $55.00 (mezzanine) and $35.00 (general admission), are on
sale and available to purchase at www.ThePalladium.net, the Palladium box office, or by
contacting Jose Rivera (elgallojar@gmail.com/508.864.6954) or AJ Rivera
GUILLERMO RIGONDEAUX VS. JOHN RIEL CASIMERO FINAL WEIGHTS
WBO Bantamweight World Championship – 12 Rounds
Guillermo Rigondeaux – 117 ½ lbs.
John Riel Casimero – 118 lbs.
Referee: Jerry Cantu; Judges: Tim Cheatham (Nev.), Robert Hoyle (Nev.), Daniel Sandoval (Calif.)
WBA Bantamweight Interim Title Bout – 12 Rounds
Gary Antonio Russell – 116 ¾ lbs.
Emmanuel Rodriguez – 118 lbs.
Referee: Sharon Sands; Judges: Rudy Barragan (Calif.), Pat Russell (Calif.), Zachary Young (Calif.)
Bantamweight Bout – 10 Rounds
Rau’shee Warren – 117 ½ lbs.
Damien Vazquez – 117 ¼ lbs.
Referee: Ray Corona; Judges: Robert Hoyle (Nev.), Alejandro Rochin (Mexico), Daniel Sandoval (Calif.)
Note: During the SHOWTIME telecast, highlights from rising super lightweight star and KO artist Brandun Lee’s bout will be shown. Friday, Lee (22-0, 20 KOs) of La Quinta, Calif., weighed in at 141 ½ pounds and his opponent Ezequiel Fernandez (28-4-1, 3 KOs) of San Juan, Argentina, weighed 138 ½ pounds. The contracted weight for the bout is 142 pounds.
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ABOUT RIGONDEAUX VS. CASIMERO
Rigondeaux vs. Casimero will see two-division world champion Guillermo Rigondeaux face bantamweight world champion John Riel Casimero for his WBO belt on Saturday, August 14 live on SHOWTIME headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will also see rising unbeaten contender Antonio Russell battle former world champion Emmanuel Rodríguez as they vie for the WBA Interim Bantamweight Title in the co-main event. Kicking off the telecast, former world champion Rau’shee Warren duels Damien Vázquez in a 10-round bantamweight bout.
Weigh-In Results: Joshua Franco vs. Andrew Moloney 3
• Joshua Franco 114.2 lbs vs. Andrew Moloney 114.8 lbs (Franco’s WBA Super Flyweight World Title — 12 Rounds) Judges: David Sutherland, Karen Holderfield and Mike Ross Referee: Jack Reiss
• Nico Ali Walsh 162.4 lbs vs. Jordan Weeks 161 lbs (Middleweight— 4 Rounds)
• Arnold Barboza Jr. 139.8 lbs vs. Antonio Moran 139 lbs (Barboza’s WBO International Junior Welterweight Title— 10 Rounds)
(ESPN+, 6 p.m. ET / 3 p.m. PT)
• Joshua Greer Jr. 117.6 lbs vs. Jason Moloney 117.6 lbs (vacant WBC Silver Bantamweight Title — 10 Rounds)
• Trey Lippe Morrison 229 lbs vs. Don Haynesworth 288.6 lbs (Heavyweight — 6 Rounds)
• Karlos Balderas 131.6 lbs vs. Fidel Cervantes 131.6 lbs (Junior Lightweight — 6 Rounds)
• Genesis Servania 132.8 lbs vs. Andres Cortes 133 lbs (Junior Lightweight — 8 Rounds)
• Albert Bell 132.8 lbs vs. Julio Cortez 133.2 lbs (Junior Lightweight — 8 Rounds)
• Abraham Nova 127.2 lbs vs. Richard Pumicpic 127.4 lbs (Featherweight — 8 Rounds)
VIDEO: ALL ACCESS: Paul vs. Woodley | First Look | TOMORROW at 9:30PM ET/6:30PM PT on SHOWTIME
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d68MYG8q8Fc
Unbeaten Lightweight Contender Frank Martin, Rising Lightweight Prospect Jose Valenzuela & Heavyweight Prospect Steven Torres Enter the Ring For Separate Showdowns in PBC Action Live on FOX & FOX Deportes Beginning at 3:30 p.m. ET/12:30 p.m. PT
LAS VEGAS (August 13, 2021) – A jam-packed lineup of hard-hitting showdowns featuring top contenders and exciting prospects will highlight PBC action live on FOX and FOX Deportes preceding the Manny Pacquiao vs. Yordenis Ugás pay-per-view event on Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
The FOX broadcast begins at 3:30 p.m. ET/12:30 p.m. PT and features unbeaten lightweight contender Frank Martin battling Ryan Kielczweski in a 10-round attraction, rising lightweight prospect Jose Valenzuela competing in an eight-round fight against Esteban Sanchez and heavyweight prospect Steven Torres squaring off against Justin Rolfe.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and MP Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through t-mobilearena.com and axs.com.
Non-televised action will see Dallas-based prospect Burley Brooks (6-2, 5 KOs) taking on Cameron Rivera (9-6-3, 6 KOs) for a super middleweight duel, unbeaten Filipino John Dato (14-0-1, 9 KOs) in a featherweight clash against Mexico’s Angel Contreras (10-4-2, 6 KOs) and the pro debut of lightweight Mikel Spencer in a four-round bout.
The 26-year-old Martin (13-0, 10 KOs) scored an impressive knockout victory over previously unbeaten Jerry Perez in his last outing in April. Before that triumph, he added two victories to his ledger in 2020, stopping Tyrone Luckey in December and Reymond Yanong in February. A seven-time national champion as an amateur, including a first place finish at the 2016 National Golden Gloves, Martin was raised in Fort Wayne, Indiana and now trains in Dallas alongside Errol Spence Jr. and under the guide of Derrick James. He is opposed by the 32-year-old Kielczweski (30-5, 11 KOs), who looks to bounce back after an October decision loss to unbeaten Gabriel Flores Jr. The Quincy, Massachusetts-native has won four of his last six bouts and has gone the distance in each of his defeats.
Born in Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico, Valenzuela (8-0, 5 KOs) now trains in Seattle as a stablemate of unbeaten two-time champion David Benavidez. The 22-year-old turned pro in 2018 and is currently on a four-bout knockout streak that includes 2021 victories over Nelson Hampton and Clay Burns. He takes on the 22-year-old Sanchez (17-1, 8 KOs), who is a native of Los Mochis, Mexico. Sanchez will be making his U.S. debut on August 21, having most recently defeated Carlos Reyes in May.
Owning knockouts in each of his fights since turning pro in December 2019, Torres (4-0, 4 KOs) returns to action for the first time since November 2020 when he stopped Joshua Tuani in round two with a body shot. The 23-year-old has yet to let an opponent make it past the second round thus far in his young career. He will battle Fairfield, Maine’s Rolfe (6-2-1, 4 KOs), a 29-year-old who has won back-to-back fights heading into August 21.
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ABOUT PACQUIAO VS. UGÁS Pacquiao vs. Ugás will see eight-division world champion and Philippine Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao taking on WBA Welterweight World Champion Yordenis Ugás in the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View main event Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see former world champions and all-action brawlers Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero and “Vicious” Víctor Ortiz meet in the 10-round welterweight co-main event, unbeaten featherweight contender Mark Magsayo battle former world champion Julio Ceja in a WBC Featherweight Title Eliminator, plus undefeated contender Carlos Castro will take on former title challenger Óscar Escandón in a 10-round featherweight attraction that kicks off the pay-per-view.
How to Watch the Saturday, August 21, FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View Fight Manny Pacquiao vs. Yordenis Ugas Main Card: 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT
TV: Available on all major U.S. & Canadian PPV providers, including Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Fios, and Optimum, among others (U.S.); as well as Rogers, Bell, Shaw, SaskTel and TELUS (Canada)
iNDemand is serving as the cable and telco distributor in North America.
Streaming: FOX Sports App and FOXSports.com
Suggested retail price: $74.99 (U.S. & Canada)
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For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.
FORMER BELLATOR LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION PHIL DAVIS CHALLENGES OLYMPIC SILVER MEDALIST YOEL ROMERO IN MAIN EVENT OF BELLATOR MMA 266 INSIDE THE SAP CENTER AT SAN JOSE ON SATURDAY, SEPT. 18
LOS ANGELES – A pair of elite mixed martial artists will meet in the main event of BELLATOR MMA 266 on Saturday, Sept. 18 inside the SAP Center at San Jose when former 205-pound champion and No. 3 ranked Phil Davis (22-6) welcomes MMA superstar Yoel Romero (13-5) to the promotion.
In addition, a women’s flyweight contest between former title challenger #5-Alejandra Lara (9-4) and DeAnna Bennett (10-7-1) that was originally slated for next week’s BELLATOR MMA 265: Kongo vs. Kharitonov event in South Dakota has been re-booked for Sept. 18.
A pair of preliminary bouts have also been announced for BELLATOR’s return to San Jose, highlighted by the Bay Area’s own No. 10 ranked lightweight Adam Piccolotti (12-4) welcoming the hard-hitting Englishman Saul Rogers (14-4) back to the division after competing at featherweight his past four outings. Also, undefeated light heavyweight Grant Neal (6-0) returns to action against former LFA light heavyweight champion Alex Polizzi (7-1).
BELLATOR 266 will be the second half of a special combat sports doubleheader on SHOWTIME. The night will begin with SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT featuring a super bantamweight world championship unification bout between Brandon Figueroa and Stephen Fulton Jr. The two unbeaten 122-pound titlists will meet in Las Vegas immediately before the live BELLATOR 266 telecast begins in San Jose.
The preliminary portion of the docket will stream live on the BELLATOR MMA YouTube channel, SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and Pluto TV. Additional bouts will be announced at a later date.
An exclusive online presale for this event takes place starting Wednesday, August 18 with tickets going on sale to the general public Thursday, August 19 at Ticketmaster.com and Bellator.com.
Hailing from Harrisburg, Penn., “Mr. Wonderful” will step into the BELLATOR cage for the 14th time in his career, searching for his 10th promotional victory. The former BELLATOR Light Heavyweight World Champion is looking to make another run at the 205-pound strap, following victories in three of his past four bouts, including a pair of knockouts over Liam McGeary and Karl Albrektsson. A four-time NCAA Division-I All-American wrestler at Penn State University, Davis has proven time and time again that there are few fighters that can hold their own once he gets them to the ground.
Fighting out of Miami, Romero will be making his highly anticipated BELLATOR debut on Sept. 18. Following a seven-year stint under the direction of the UFC, the American Top Team-product became one of the most sought-after free agents prior to signing with the Scott Coker-led promotion in December 2020. With 11 of his 13 career victories coming by way of knockout, including four of the first-round variety, “Soldier of God” possesses the type of knockout power that can force any opponent into early retirement. A three-time World Cup Freestyle Wrestling Champion, five-time Pan-American Freestyle Wrestling Champion, and 2000 Olympics Freestyle Wrestling Silver Medalist, the Cuban-born Romero has continuously showcased his elite talents at the highest level of competition. The only missing trophy to a near-flawless legacy is a BELLATOR world title.
Updated schedule of BELLATOR events
Fri. Aug. 13 // BELLATOR 264: Mousasi vs. Salter // Mohegan Sun Arena // Uncasville, CT
Fri. Aug. 20 // BELLATOR 265: Kongo vs. Kharitonov //Sanford Pentagon // Sioux Falls, SD
Sat. Sept. 18 // BELLATOR 266: Davis vs. Romero //SAP Center // San Jose, CA
Fri. Oct. 1 // BELLATOR 267: Lima vs. MVP 2 //The SSE Arena, Wembley // London, England
Sat. Oct. 16 // BELLATOR 268: Light Heavyweight World Grand Prix Semifinals // Footprint Center // Phoenix, AZ
Sat. Oct. 23 // BELLATOR 269: Fedor vs. Johnson // VTB Arena // Moscow, Russia
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BELLATOR MMA 266: Davis vs. Romero Main Card:
SHOWTIME
Light Heavyweight Main Event: #3-Phil Davis (22-6) vs. Yoel Romero (13-5)
Flyweight Bout: #5-Alejandra Lara (9-4) and DeAnna Bennett (10-7-1)
Lightweight Bout: #10–Adam Piccolotti (12-4) vs. Saul Rogers (14-4)
Light Heavyweight Bout: #7-Grant Neal (6-0) vs. Alex Polizzi (7-1)
*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.
ROBERT GUERRERO TRAINING CAMP QUOTES
LAS VEGAS (August 13, 2021) – Former multiple-division world champion Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero previewed his upcoming showdown against fellow all-action brawler “Vicious” Victor Ortiz before they square off on the Manny Pacquiao vs. Yordenis Ugas FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View undercard Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and MP Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through t-mobilearena.com and axs.com.
The two former world champions are known for their aggressive styles and have been in numerous Fight of the Year candidates throughout their storied careers. On August 21 they meet looking to score a victory that will put them back in position to vie for a world title once again.
Here is what Guerrero had to say about the matchup, training camp and more:
On his upcoming matchup with Victor Ortiz:
“This fight has been a long-time coming, as I remember it was mentioned years ago, but never happened. I am excited for this bout since we both need a win, and the fans are very familiar with both of our styles. Victor Ortiz and I are both exciting fighters, and everyone knows this is going to be a fan friendly dog fight. Fighting Victor is the type of bout that got me excited to have a full professional training camp. I’m grateful to be fighting on this huge FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View card, and I’m going to give it my all.”
On his recent training camp with coach and father Ruben Guerrero:
“I have been working very hard for this camp, in fact, my father Ruben and I took camp to Las Vegas and brought along some young fighters to keep me motivated. I’ve been getting good sparring with DJ Zamora III, who is very fast. I’m feeding off all the young fighters that are training with me, and that is what keeps me fresh. You need to be around hungry fighters who are motivated to stay at this level, because it is easy to lose focus if it’s just you in the gym.”
On returning to the ring after a long layoff:
“At this point in my career, it is about getting the best fights. I got the rust off and now it’s about getting fights that get me and the fans excited. Everyone knows that when I fight, I bring it, and Victor Ortiz is an exciting fighter as well. I am at a point where I have done a lot in the sport, so I am not going to be fighting every other month like when I was a prospect. When you know how to fight, a layoff isn’t always a bad thing.”
On what a win will do for his career:
“A win here puts me in a position to get in contention for a world title, and that should be the goal of everyone who is fighting, to win a world title. If you’re not fighting to win a world title, you shouldn’t be in the sport. I want to win at least one more world title before it’s all said and done. It’s a lofty goal, but I believe in myself.”
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ABOUT PACQUIAO VS. UGÁS Pacquiao vs. Ugás will see eight-division world champion and Philippine Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao taking on WBA Welterweight World Champion Yordenis Ugás in the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View main event Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see former world champions and all-action brawlers Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero and “Vicious” Víctor Ortiz meet in a 10-round welterweight duel, unbeaten featherweight contender Mark Magsayo battle former world champion Julio Ceja in a WBC Featherweight Title Eliminator, plus undefeated contender Carlos Castro will take on former title challenger Óscar Escandón in a 10-round featherweight attraction that kicks off the pay-per-view.
How to Watch the Saturday, August 21, FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View Fight Manny Pacquiao vs. Yordenis Ugas Main Card: 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT
TV: Available on all major U.S. & Canadian PPV providers, including Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Fios, and Optimum, among others (U.S.); as well as Rogers, Bell, Shaw, SaskTel and TELUS (Canada)
iNDemand is serving as the cable and telco distributor in North America.
Streaming: FOX Sports App and FOXSports.com
Suggested retail price: $74.99 (U.S. & Canada)
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For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.
BELLOTTI – THE PRESSURE IS ALL ON HIM
Reece Bellotti says the pressure is on Raymond Ford to prove he’s the next big thing from America as they clash for the WBA Continental Featherweight Title on the final weekend of Matchroom Fight Camp, live worldwide on DAZN.
Bellotti (14-4 12 KOs) is back at Fight Camp having gone ten rounds with Jordan Gill in August, being edged out by the Chatteris man to make it back-to-back defeats for Bellotti after an even tighter loss via split decision in Italy against Francesco Grandelli in October 2019.
The former Commonwealth Champion feels victory tomorrow against the 22-year-old from New Jersey puts his career right back on track, and the 30-year-old knows Ford has to impress after a draw in his last fight in Dallas in March in his second eight round contest.
“The pressure is definitely more on him than me,” said Bellotti. “He’s the favourite, he’s been touted as the next best thing in America, whereas I’ve lost my last two so there’s no pressure on me. I’ve had hard fights, those losses weren’t in easy touches, they were against quality opposition. You have to take step ups and I believe I am a big step up from his last opponent, we’ll see that tonight.
“It’s massive, one fight can change the path of your career and that’s what I want to do, beat Ray and change my path – I can win any fight by KO, I just need the game plan and pick the right shot, and I can knock him out.
“I’m in great shape and life is good. I’ve been off work for a while and fully concentrating on the fight. I’ve had great sparring, it’s probably up there with the best camp of my life as far as sparring is concerned, we’ve had lots of different people in, all sorts of styles to adapt to what Ford brings tonight.
“You have to make camp hard work because it’s going to be hard work on the night and you have to get used to it and be ready for it, I am fully prepared, and I can’t wait.
“There were spots in his last fight where he was on the back foot and a bit negative, and his opponent capitalized on that. Granted, not all the shots landed flush, but he looked like he was being outworked at points in the fight. So, I have taken little bits from it, but I expect him to be better than that tonight.
“I think he could fight on the backfoot but after drawing that fight in his head he might be thinking that he needs to come forward and have a go at times, mix it up a bit, so I will be prepared for that. If I can hurt him early, that’ll put doubts in his head and he’s never been ten rounds before, that’s what we want to do.”
Ford vs. Bellotti is part of a huge night of action, Light-Heavyweight star Joshua Buatsi (14-0, 12 KOs) steps up against Ricards Bolotniks (18-5-1, 8 KOs) in a WBA World Title Eliminator, Joe Cordina (12-0, 7 KOs) returns in a ten round Lightweight clash with Joshuah Hernandez (10-3, 8 KOs), Portsmouth’s Michael McKinson (20-0, 2 KOs) defends his WBO Global Welterweight Title against Przemyslaw Runowski (19-1, 5 KOs), Hopey Price (4-0, 1 KO) meets Claudio Grande (5-0, 3 KOs) in a six round Super-Bantamweight contest, Glasgow’s Kash Farooq (15-1, 6 KOs) clashes with Luis Gerardo Castillo (28-2, 18 KOs) for the WBC International Bantamweight Title and Manchester Super-Featherweight Zelfa Barrett (25-1, 15 KOs) takes on Romania’s Viorel Simion (22-6, 9 KOs).
LIVE VIDEO: Rigondeaux vs. Casimero: Weigh-In | SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING
