LOS ANGELES, CA (July 7, 2021) – Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (41-0, 27 KOs) and Sullivan Barrera (22-3, 14 KOs) hosted their final press conference today at Banc of California Stadium, home of their July 9 fight which will be streamed live on DAZN. They were joined by several members of the undercard, including Joseph Diaz Jr. (31-1-1, 15 KOs) and Seniesa Estrada (20-0, 8 KOs).

Below is what the main event participants had to say today:

GILBERTO RAMIREZ, Light Heavyweight Contender:
“This Friday, we are going to put on a great show. I know Sullivan Barrera very well and he knows me. We know that each of us always comes well prepared and ready to put on a show. But at the end of the day, I’ll be the one to come out with my hands raised in victory. I’m going to come out with a record of 42 wins and 28 knockouts.”

“The road to this fight has been exciting. I am happy to be working with Golden Boy Promotions. I am grateful for the opportunity. I want to give a great performance and show all my skills. I’m going to give the fans what they want: good fights!”

“I’m also very excited to be fighting here at Banc of California Stadium. I can’t wait to see all the people here, who are finally back to these kinds of events. There will be a lot of Mexicans and Latinos coming here to support me, so I can’t wait to give them a great show.”

SULLIVAN BARRERA, Light Heavyweight Contender:
“I respect Zurdo Ramírez a lot. We have known each other for a long time. As he said, we know that each of us trains hard. We know that because we have trained together and sparred. But now is the time to put on a great show for all the fans.”

“Everyone knows what I have done in this division. My experience says a lot. I have some loses, but they were against very tough fighters. My experience will be a big factor.”

“Zurdo Ramirez has a lot of skills. He does of things very well. But I have to do everything necessary to win this fight and earn another title shot. A win will help me get that opportunity.”

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Zurdo vs. Barrera is a 12-round special attraction in the light heavyweight division presented by Golden Boy in association with Zurdo Promotions. Diaz Jr. vs. Fortuna is a 12-round battle for the vacant WBC Interim Lightweight Championship presented by Golden Boy in association with Sampson Boxing. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Friday, July 9 at Banc of California Stadium in Downtown Los Angeles and will be streamed live on DAZN.

Tickets for Zurdo vs. Barrera are on sale and are priced at $150, $75, $50 and $35, not including applicable service charges. In an effort to promote social distancing, tickets will initially be sold in pods/groupings of 2, 3, 4 and 6 people only, subject to change with local and state guidelines. Tickets will be available for purchase at www.bancofcaliforniastadium.com or www.ticketmaster.com. The Banc of California Stadium is located in historic Exposition Park, 3939 S. Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90037.

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

Photos and videos are available for download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link: http://bit.ly/ZurdoBarrera into a browser. Credit must be provided to Golden Boy for any photo and/or video usage.

SAN ANTONIO (July 7, 2021) – Unified WBC, WBA and IBF World Champion Jermell Charlo and WBO World Champion Brian Castaño took part in a virtual press conference Wednesday to preview their battle for the undisputed 154-pound championship which headlines action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, July 17 from AT&T Center in San Antonio in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

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

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see the hard-hitting unified champion Charlo and the exciting Argentine Castaño go toe-to-toe as all of the super welterweight championship belts are on the line for the first time in the four-belt era.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

JERMELL CHARLO

“We have 10 days to go and I’m excited. This is the most important time of my life. I love this. I’ve been doing this since I was a kid. My experience inside and outside of the ring has all led up to this. Now is the time for me to put it all on the line.

“Castaño is going to leave everything in the ring. So we’re not playing any games. I’ve been training really hard. I’ve added things that have made me better because I know for a fact that this is going to be a great fight.

“I love my home state of Texas and I love fighting there. We’re bred differently. We’re a state that’s fought our own wars. This is huge. It’s a legacy fight for me and I’m ready for it.

“I know what I possess in the ring. When it’s time to fight, I instantly become the best warrior that there is out there.

“I’ve suffered my whole life, so there’s nothing in this world that can make me suffer more than what I went through growing up. Castaño is a great fighter who puts on a lot of pressure. But I know my abilities and I know my power. Every punch I throw is dominant and every shot I throw is painful for my opponent. I have a lot of unique abilities in me and I’m going to bring some tricks into this fight.

“I haven’t punched Castaño yet so I don’t know what his chin will do when I hit him. I know he’s got a big heart. I’m just going to do what I do, which is what everyone knows that I do. Everyone sees what I can do each time I get into the ring.

“I’ve been feeling really good in training camp. Better than I’ve ever felt. I’m in my prime right now and I feel stronger fight by fight. I’ve been developing every camp.

“I’ve got belts on belts and he’s got one belt. I’m ready to take that strap too. I’ve been paying attention to what he’s been doing. I haven’t just been sitting around since I fought Jeison Rosario. I’ve been working.

“Right now I’m not worried about what’s happening after this fight. I can only focus on what’s in front of me. I’m tunnel-visioned right now. This is what I want and I can’t see anything outside of victory on July 17.

“You’re going to see a more developed Jermell Charlo on July 17. I guarantee you’re going to see a top pound-for-pound fighter. At any point, this fight could be over with.

“This is a major fight because it’s history for me and my family. It’s huge for everyone that I represent and that’s been supporting me for all these years. It was due time to get in there for this fight. The belts and the money are not on my mind. What’s on my mind is the legacy.

“Not a lot of people get these opportunities. This fight is going to solidify a lot of different things in people’s minds about the Charlos.”

BRIAN CASTAÑO

“This is my opportunity. This is the fight of my life. I’m a world champion and Charlo is a world champion. The chance to become undisputed is just ten days away and I can’t wait. This is my time. This fight is so important for my life. I hope to become undisputed on July 17 for my country and for my Latin supporters.

“This is one of the most important fights in Argentina’s history. It’s for four belts, undisputed at 154 pounds. It’s a great opportunity for my team, my manager, my family and most importantly, for me. This will be the hardest fight of my career.

“Charlo is a great fighter, there’s no doubt about it. But I came here to do my job and I’m going to come forward. I’m the type of fighter that is always going after you. I’m always there to pressure you. Even though Charlo said that I don’t have anything he hasn’t seen before, he has never seen anybody with my fighting style.

“I’ve seen Charlo knock down a lot of fighters with just one punch. That’s something to look out for. However, I have more of a variety in my arsenal than anybody he has fought before. If I have to be more aggressive and go for more power instead of finesse, rest assured that I can knock him down as well.

“Ring rust will not be an issue at all. I train every day. I spar three times a week. I’ve been training twice a day lately. I am in rhythm and in shape. I am coming for the four belts.

“On July 17, I can guarantee that I will bare my soul, I will leave my heart in the ring and do everything in my power to become the undisputed, unified champion of the world.

“I think that Charlo is in the prime of his career as well. That’s why I looked for this fight. This is the fight I’ve been looking for because we are both in the best moment of our career, and I want to take advantage of it.

“I am out for glory. I want to be the first in history to be undisputed champion at 154 pounds in the four-belt era and also be one of the best Argentinian and Latin American boxers that ever lived. I’m going for it all. I’m going to leave it all out there on Saturday night and there’s no reason why I can’t be both one of the best pound-for-pound fighters and also one of the best Argentinian boxers ever.

“If I win, the glory would be equal to a potential Argentina World Cup title next year. However, soccer is different because you have ten other people that you can rely on. Messi has ten teammates that he can pass the ball to when things get tough, but when I’m in the ring I’m on my own. Boxing is more of an individual challenge. When I’m up against the ropes, I have to get out of it on my own. The glory and the excitement of a win would be the same as an Argentina World Cup for my country.

“This opportunity to make history for my country and for Latin American people brings out very strong emotions in me. I don’t want to let down my Latin American people from all over the world. I feel an immense amount of pride in that and I am up to the challenge.

“I have not had the opportunity to meet Manu Ginobili, but he is an icon in Argentinian sports. He is one of the best ever and what he represents is iconic both as an athlete and as a person. He has both my admiration and my respect.

“I am aware that people may not know me, but I’m here to create my own path and pave my own way. I know that I haven’t fought that much lately and maybe that’s part of the reason why people don’t know me, but I turned down fights against opponents that weren’t of the caliber that I wanted to face. My goal has always been to go up against the best of the best and the elite of my division. I have that chance now and I’m going to prove why I deserve this chance and why I’m worth following.”

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ABOUT CHARLO VS. CASTAÑO
Charlo vs. Castaño will see unified WBC, WBA and IBF World Champion Jermell Charlo and WBO World Champion Brian Castaño battle for undisputed status at super welterweight as all four 154-pound belts hang in the balance for the first time in history on Saturday, July 17 live on SHOWTIME from AT&T Center in San Antonio in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will also feature unbeaten Interim WBA Lightweight Champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero taking on Austin Dulay in the co-main event, plus unbeaten middleweight Amilcar Vidal matching up against veteran contender Immanuwel Aleem in a 10-round bout that opens the telecast.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through www.attcenter.com. Romero vs. Dulay is co-promoted with Mayweather Promotions.

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

LAS VEGAS, NV (July 7, 2021) – Undefeated 2016 Olympic Bronze Medalist and Cuban bantamweight prospect, Joahnys Argilagos (6-0, 3 KOs), talks about his upcoming fight at the Airport Hilton in Miami, FL, this Friday, July 9, 2021, against Juan Pablo Meza (4-1, 1 KO). This will be the first 8-round bout of Argilagos’ career. The event, titled “GOT TALENT XIII”, is promoted by M&R Boxing Promotions and will be streamed live on PPV for $4.99 at www.stellartickets.com.

Here is what Argilagos, who is managed by Jesse Rodriguez, had to say about his matchup with Meza, his recent training camp with coach Pedro Roque, fighting in his first 8-round bout, and more.

On his recent training camp in Las Vegas:

“I’ve been training with my coach Pedro Roque at the Prince Ranch Boxing gym with Bones Adams and his fighters. We’ve been sparring with the best and I’m feeling great. Today was my last day of training and I’ll be flying out to Miami this evening. All the hard work is done and now it’s time to focus on Meza.”

On his matchup with Juan Pablo Meza:

“I don’t know much about Meza except that his only loss was by split decision. I know he’s young and hungry so I’m expecting the best version of him. I’ll be ready for any style he brings.”

On fighting in his first 8-round bout:

“I’ve been ready to take everything in my career to new heights. Fighting eight rounds will not be a problem and I’m looking forward to it. This will give me more rounds to stop my opponents so I’m embracing fighting eight rounds. If all goes well, I want to do my damage early and end the fight by knockout.

On what a win will do for his career:

“Since this fight will be streamed live on PPV, I feel I can gain a lot of recognition with those watching. I have over 300 amateur fights, so I have great confidence in my ability to fight anyone in the world. A victory will get me one step closer to fighting someone in the top ten, which is my goal by the end of the year. I want to be fighting for a world title by the end of 2022.

Salita Promotions proudly announces the signing of blue-chip Russian light heavyweight prospect Ali Izmailov to a promotional contract.

28-year-old Izmailov is a former amateur standout having won multiple elite international tournaments in amateurs. As a professional, at just 5-0, 3 KOs in his pro boxing career, Izmailov is already rated #10 by the IBF.

Standing 5? 11½? with a muscular frame, strong punching power, deceptive quickness and a very sturdy defense, Izmailov, from Malgobek, Russia, is a heavy-handed counter puncher whose accurate shots punish opponents into submission. The exciting prospect says he’s expecting to do big things fighting under the Salita banner.

“I have a great future with Salita and everyone will be surprised at my extraordinary ability,” said Izmailov. “Dmitriy Salita will give me the opportunity to become a world champion. I will show the American fans my exciting style and willingness to fight the best.”

Izmailov was last seen unleashing an impressive destruction of his 25-2 countryman, Ruslan Fayfer, in nine rounds in November 2020. Promoter Salita says he’s optimistic of the Russian power puncher’s chances.

“Ali is already the best prospect in the division,” said Salita. “We are going to bring him to the United States where fans will quickly grow to love his fearlessness and his power. The 175-lb division just got even deeper with the addition of this newest Russian strongman.”

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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.

World ranked Tim Tszyu kept his perfect mark intact b stopping late-replacement Steve Spark in round three of a scheduled 10-round bout at Newcastle Entertainment Center in Newcastle, South Wales, Australia.

Tszyu, who was the bigger fighter dropped Spark twice in round three with body shots and the fight was halted at 2:22.

Tszyu, 152 3/4 lbs is now 19-0 with 15 knockouts. Spark, who was coming up in weight and took the fight on about a week’s notice after original opponent Michael Zerafa pulled out is now 12-2.

Noynay Stops Wilson in 5

Joe Noynay stopped previously undefeated Liam Wilson in round five of a schedule 10-round super featherweight bout.

Noynay registered four knockdowns,, as he sent Wilson down once in round one, two times in round four and once in round five. The final knockdown was the clincher, and the fight was stopped at 2:40.

Noynay, 129 3/4 lbs of the Philippines is 19-2-2 with eight knockouts. Wilson, 130 ls is 9-1.

Wade Ryan stopped Troy O’Meley in round six of their scheduled 10-round super welterweight bout.

In round three, O’Meley was cut over the right eye from an accidental headbutt. Ryan dropped O’Meley in round five, and O’Meley pulled he plug on the fight in round six.

Ryan, 152 3/4 lbs is 19-9 with seven knockouts. O’Meley, 152 1/4 lbs is 11-2.

Sam Ah See returned from a six-year hiatus by stopping former interim titlist Czar Armonsot in the opening round of their scheduled eight-round welterweight bout.

In round one, Ah See hurt Armonsot with a hard uppercut that was followed up by a combination that sent Armonsot to the canvas. Seconds later, a hard right hook hurt Armonsot, and the fight was stopped at 2:47.

Ah See, 145 1/2 lbs of New South Wales, AUS is now 14-0-1 with seven knockouts. Armonsot, 143 1/2 lbs of Melbourne, AUS via the Philippines is 35-6-3.

Linn Sandstrom and Natalie Gonzales Hills battled to a six-round split draw in a super flyweight bout.

In round one, there was swelling under the right eye of Hills.

Each fighter won a card at 58-56 and third card was 57-57.

Sandstrom, 115 lbs of Australia via Sweden is 1-1-1. Hills of Australia via the Philippines was making her pro debut.

LOS ANGELES, CA (July 6, 2021) – Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (41-0, 27 KOs) and Sullivan Barrera (22-3, 14 KOs) hosted a media workout today at Banc of California Stadium, home of their July 9 fight which will be streamed live on DAZN. They were joined by several members of the undercard, including Joseph Diaz Jr. (31-1-1, 15 KOs) and Seniesa Estrada (20-0, 8 KOs).

Below is what the main event participants had to say:

GILBERTO RAMIREZ, Light Heavyweight Contender:
“I see every fight as an opportunity. This is my chance to start my path to becoming a two-division world champion. I know this is a tough fight. It will be very difficult for me. He has a lot of experience, and he’s fought against a lot of good fighters. But he’s never faced anyone like me. This Friday, you will all see the best version of Zurdo Ramirez. I’m here to take all of the belts at light heavyweight. I’m here to take the souls of all the warriors at this division.”

SULLIVAN BARRERA, Light Heavyweight Contender:
“I feel good. I feel great. After two years of being away from the ring, it’s great to be able to come back at such a high level. This is a great opportunity to show people what I am made of. Ramirez is a tough challenge. I know the kind of style he’s going to bring. He’s going to want to push me back and throw a lot of punches. But that’s not the kind of fight that I want. I want to be in the center of the ring, and I’m going to be the one pushing him back.”

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Zurdo vs. Barrera is a 12-round special attraction in the light heavyweight division presented by Golden Boy in association with Zurdo Promotions. Diaz Jr. vs. Fortuna is a 12-round battle for the vacant WBC Interim Lightweight Championship presented by Golden Boy in association with Sampson Boxing. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Friday, July 9 at Banc of California Stadium in Downtown Los Angeles and will be streamed live on DAZN.

Tickets for Zurdo vs. Barrera are on sale and are priced at $150, $75, $50 and $35, not including applicable service charges. In an effort to promote social distancing, tickets will initially be sold in pods/groupings of 2, 3, 4 and 6 people only, subject to change with local and state guidelines. Tickets will be available for purchase at www.bancofcaliforniastadium.com or www.ticketmaster.com. The Banc of California Stadium is located in historic Exposition Park, 3939 S. Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90037.

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

(July 6, 2021) —The newest superstar in Australian boxing, undefeated junior middleweight contender Tim Tszyu, will look to extend his unbeaten record and defend his WBO Global belt in a 10-round showdown this Wednesday, July 7 against countryman Steve Spark at Newcastle Entertainment Centre in Newcastle, Australia.
 
Tszyu was originally supposed to fight longtime contender Michael Zerafa, who pulled out of the bout due to health concerns. Spark filled in on about a week’s notice to save the main event.
 
Tszyu-Spark and select undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively in the United States on ESPN+ starting at 5 a.m. ET/2 a.m. PT.
 
Tszyu (18-0, 14 KOs), the WBO No. 1 junior middleweight contender, has built a fanatical following in Australia, where he has fought all of his pro bouts. Last August, he knocked out former world champion Jeff Horn in front of 16,000 fans, and less than four months later, he knocked out Bowyn Morgan in one round in front of more than 15,000 spectators. Tszyu returned March 31 against former world title challenger Dennis Hogan and notched a bloody fifth-round stoppage. Spark (12-1, 11 KOs) has won 11 fights in a row, including an upset over Jack Brubaker in April to earn the shot at Tszyu.
 
In other streaming action on ESPN+:

• Undefeated junior lightweight Liam Wilson (9-0, 6 KOs) will challenge Filipino veteran Joe Noynay (18-2-2, 7 KOs) in a 10-rounder for the WBO Asia Pacific title. Noynay is 6-0-1 in his last seven fights dating back to 2017.
   
• Junior middleweight veteran Troy O’Meley (11-1, 2 KOs) will face Wade Ryan (18-9, 6 KOs) in a 10-round rematch of last December’s battle, which was won by Ryan via split decision.
   
• In an eight-round welterweight tilt, Sam Ah See (13-0-1, 6 KOs) will seek to extend his winning streak to 11 against Czar Amonsot (35-5-3, 22 KOs).
   
• In a six-round female junior bantamweight bout, Linn Sandstrom (1-1) will fight Natalie Hills, who is making her pro debut.

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 13.8 million subscribers.Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $5.99 a month (or $59.99 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 $12.99/month (Hulu w/ads) or $18.99/month (Hulu w/o ads).

HOLLYWOOD, CALIF. (July 5, 2021) – Eight-division world champion and boxer laureate Senator MANNY “PACMAN” PACQUIAO began his first U.S. training camp in nearly two years today and it seemed like he picked up right where he left off when he dethroned WBA welterweight champion Keith Thurman on July 20, 2019, tagging the defending champion with his first loss.  One day removed from arriving from the Philippines, Manny began the day with a five-mile morning run and 1,000 sit-ups.  Before heading to Wild Card Boxing Club, in Hollywood, for his afternoon training session with world-famous Freddie Roach, Manny was given a random drug test from VADA (Voluntary Anti-Doping Association) at his house.  Once at Wild Card, Manny and Freddie began the nearly three-hour gym session with nine rounds on the mitts, with each punch exploding like a July 4^th firecracker.

Manny and undefeated WBC and IBF Welterweight Champion Errol “The Truth” Spence will meet in a blockbuster championship showdown that headlines a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View on Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.  

“If this is how Manny hits with jet lag, I may need to get new gloves with thicker padding for our next sessions,” said Freddie.  “He was incredibly sharp for his first day.  He hit hard with good power.  After all these years, I’m still amazed at the great condition he’s in when he comes to training camp.  After traveling around the world yesterday, he put in a full day here – mitts, speed bag, shadow boxing – the works.  The best part was at the end when he lifted his shirt to show me his six pack and said, Freddie, I’m still here.”

“Errol Spence is a very difficult fight for me; perhaps the most difficult of my career,” said Manny.  “But I have been an underdog my whole life.  I am used to that.  It is why I work so hard.  But the love and the prayers of my fellow Philippine citizens and Filipinos around the world sustain and inspire me.  I fight for the glory of our nation and for underdogs everywhere.”

Remaining tickets to the Pacquiao-Spence welterweight world championship event can be purchased through  www.t-mobilearena.com and www.axs.com.

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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.

LAS VEGAS, NV (July 5, 2021) – Jesse Rodriguez Boxing Management has signed 2016 Olympic Bronze Medalist and Cuban bantamweight sensation, Joahnys Argilagos, to a multiyear managerial agreement. Argilagos joins blue chip prospects, Yoelvis Gomez, Geovany Bruzon, and Lenier Pero, as well multiple division world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa, as part of Rodriguez’ growing stable of boxers.

Argilagos, who is a promotional free agent, is scheduled to fight in his first 8-round bout this Friday, July 9, 2021, at the Airport Hilton in Miami, FL, against Juan Pablo Meza (4-1, 1 KO). The bantamweight bout will be promoted by M&R Boxing Promotions.

Now training in Las Vegas, NV, Argilagos will be guided by veteran coach, Pedro Roque, who also guides the corner of Gamboa, in addition to many other great Cuban fighters of the past.

Joahnys Argilagos, who goes by the nickname “El Pequeño Gigante” (The Little Giant), is (6-0, 3 KOs) as a professional and was born in Camaguey, Cuba. The 24-year-old orthodox bantamweight stands 5’ 5” and had immaculate amateur record of (315 W – 10 L). Argilagos took home a bronze medal at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio and won gold at both the 2015 and 2017 World Championships. With lighting fast hands and explosive power, Argilagos has the pedigree to become the next great Cuban prize fighter.

“I’m going to set the world on fire and make a name for myself in the America,” Argilagos said. “Living and training in the United States has been exciting thus far, especially in Las Vegas where all the greatest fighters are at. I’m going to take full advantage of every opportunity that comes my way and I’m very grateful to my manager Jesse Rodriguez for everything he has done for me.”

“Joahnys Argilagos is an exceptional boxer with explosive power and hand speed,” stated manager Jesse Rodriguez. “He brings an exciting style to the ring because he throws a lot of hard power shots and is very accurate with his punches. When he makes his televised debut, he will be must watch TV. I’m please with his progression as a professional and he’s in good hands with coach Pedro Roque. I’m expecting an electrifying performance from him this Friday in Miami.”

Chris Colbert retained the WA Interim Super Featherweight title with 12-round unanimous decision over Tugstsoght Nyambayar at the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.

Colbert dominated the action with his and an occasional flush power punch, with the late-replacement Nyambayar never able to get close to land anything of significance.

Colbert landed 218 of 622 punches; Nyambayar was just 78 of 332.

Colbert, 130 lbs of Brooklyn, NY won by scores of 118-110 twice and 117-111, and is now 16-0. Nyambayar, 129.6 lbs of Mongolia is 12-2.

Chris Colbert:
“He carried power for a 126-pounder. Boxing is about hitting and not getting hit. I had to use my Muhammad Ali tactics and float like a butterfly and sting like a bee.

“We had a tremendous training camp. We sparred a lot with a bigger guy in Michel Rivera. I had a lot of practice using my speed and jab in camp. The jab is always a key in this sport.

“This was a great fight and ‘Tug’ did a great job coming in off only a week and a half of training for me. I take off my hat to him and wish him nothing but the best in his career.

“I’m very slick. It’s not that easy to hit me. If you get me with one, you got lucky.”

Rivera stops Fernandez in 8

Michel Rivera scored an emphatic eighth round stoppage over Jon Fernandez in a scheduled 12-round lightweight bout.

In round six, Fernandez landed a hard right hand that sent Rivera down to the canvas for the first time. In round eight, Rivera landed a jab that was followed by a booming right that splattered Fernandez face-first on the canvas, and the fight was immediately stopped at 44 seconds

Rivera, 134.4 lbs of Santo Domingo, DR is 21-0 with 14 knockouts, Fernandez, 135 lbs of Spain is 21-2.

Michel Rivera:

“Fernandez is a good fighter who hits hard, but he doesn’t have the skill that I have. I had to get him tired and I knew I could get to him. My coach was telling me that my right hand would be able to land. Once I landed it, I knew right away that the fight was over.

“I was trying to find the distance, and around round 6 or 7 the distance got a little tighter.

“Fernandez is a good boxer, and I know that he has good condition. He has great experience and he is good in Spain. I know that he fights with good European talent.

“You can see that he is a top guy with a good record and experience. I know that he is tough clearly.

“I can fight with Ryan Garcia, I can fight with Teofimo Lopez, and I’m not joking. I know that I can fight with any of the top five in the lightweight division. I live in the gym and I have made the sacrifices to be great and I have a great team behind me.

“I’m so excited, beyond happy. Fernández was a strong, experienced opponent that forced me to change the gameplan I had going in.

“I had a plan, but I had to throw I away once he got me with a punch. I knew since the first round that I would have to be careful with him. He had heavy hands and was taller than me, but I was faster and more skilled overall.

“To be honest, I felt like I was winning on the cards anyway. My corner would tell me ‘you lost this (round)’ and I felt I was up 5-2.

“(Looks at his medal) This goes for Rolando Romero. Once I do face him, I would like to go up against Gervonta Davis or Teofimo López next.”

Follow all the actions as Chris Colbert defends the WBA Interim Super Featherweight title against former featherweight title challenger Tugstsight Nyambayar.  The action begins at 9 PM ET with a lightweight battle between Michel Rivera and Jon Fernandez.

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Round 1: Jab from Colbert…3 punch combination…Hard Jab…

Round 2 Left to body from Nyambayar…Jab from Colbert..Snapping jab…Right from Nyambayar..left uppercut from Colbert

Round 3 Nice left hook from Nyambayar…chopping right from Colbert…Lead right…Body and right to head…Right from Nyambayar..Colbert lands a flush combination…

Round 4 exchange jabs…Right from Nyambayar…Double-Jab/Right hand from Colbert

Round 5 Double jab rom Colbert…Counter right from Nyambayar…Jab from Colbert…3 punch combination…Jab…Overhand right

Round 6 Body shot from Colbert…Combination..Counter left to liver from Nyambayar…2 rights from Colbert….

Round 7 Right to body from Nyambayar…Combination…Lead right from Colbert…right and left…Body shot

Round 8 2 jabs from Colbert…Sweeping left hook..Right…

Round 9 Nyambayar lands a combination…

Round 10 Barrage of head punches from Colbert…Uppercut/left and right…Combination from Nyambayar…

Round 11 Colbert jabbing and moving

Round 12 Left from Colbert

117-111, 118-110 TWICE FOR CHRIS COLBERT

Round 1 Jab..uppercut and jab from Fernandez…Right….Body shot from Rivera..Uppercut from Fernandez..1-2 to the body…
Round 2 Combination from Rivera…Body shot from Fernandez..Right uppercut..Body from Rivera…Right..Combination from Fernandez..Right from Rivera..
Round 3 Body from Rivera…Jab from Fernandez…Rivera lands a jab…left hook to the body
Round 4 Nice right from Fernandez…3 punch combination from Rivera..Lead left hook to the Liver..Thudding right…Body…Left hook from Fernandez…Lead left hook..Lead right from Rivera….Jab and thudding right…Short left and right uppercut from Fernandez..
Round 5 Right from Rivera…Chopping right from Fernandez…Jab from Rivera…
Round 6 RIGHT HAND AND DOWN GOES RIVERA..Right from Rivera…Left hook from Fernandez..
Round 7  1-2 from Fernandez..Rivera lands a combination to the body….1-2….short right uppercut for Fernandez
Round 8 HUGE RIGHT AND DOWN GOES FERNANDEZ…FIGHT OVER

NEW YORK – July 2, 2021 – ShoBox: The New Generation celebrates its 20-year anniversary with a three-fight card headlined by two exciting undefeated super middleweight prospects as Kalvin Henderson takes on Isaiah Steen in a 10-round main event clash Friday, July 23 live on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/PT) from the Heartland Events Center in Grand Island, Neb.

The popular series ShoBox debuted in Atlantic City on July 21, 2001 and has produced 84 fighters who later went on to win a world title. Just like it has for the past 20 years, the upcoming tripleheader will feature prospects matched tough with a combined record of 81-1-5, including five boxers who have yet to taste defeat at the professional level.

Henderson (14-0-1,10 KOs) matches up against knockout artist Steen (15-0, 12 KOs) in the first 10-rounder for both fighters. The co-feature pits ShoBox veteran Janelson Bocachica (17-0, 11 KOs) of Detroit against 21-year-old Shinard Bunch (15-1, 13 KOs) in a 10-round welterweight bout. In a battle of unbeatens, Martino Jules (10-0-2, 2 KOs) faces Aram Avagyan (10-0-2, 4 KOs) in an eight-round featherweight affair.

“This is a milestone ShoBox event and we could not be more excited,” said Gordon Hall, who has served as the executive producer of ShoBox: The New Generation since its inception. “As we celebrate two decades of ShoBox on July 23, we will stay true to our ethos to match undefeated, developing prospects tough. In the main event, undefeated 168-pound prospects with decorated amateur pedigrees will seek a career-best win. The co-feature has the return of fast-rising Janelson Bocachica in a difficult style matchup against the power-punching Bunch, while the opener features a battle of unbeatens that could steal the show. ShoBox remains the sport’s ultimate proving ground for prospects and this event on July 23 is the perfect way to kick off our next decade.”

The event, which is promoted by Marshall Kauffman’s Kings Promotions in association with Holden Productions, Salita Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, brings together fighters from seven different boxing promotional and management teams.

Kalvin Henderson vs. Isaiah Steen – 10-round Super Middleweight Main Event

Henderson vs. Steen is a matchup that was originally scheduled for ShoBox in October, before Henderson withdrew during fight week with an illness.

Born in Fort Worth, Texas, Henderson currently resides and trains out of Fayetteville, Ark., where he was a six-time Arkansas state champion in the amateurs competing in 70 fights. He turned pro in 2016, winning his first 12 fights before fighting Genc Pllana to a draw in 2019. Henderson has prior experience at the Heartland Events Center, knocking out Justin Baesman at the venue in March.

Following high school, Henderson received a music scholarship from the University of Arkansas as a percussionist and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Music Education in 2012. The 30-year-old Henderson is promoted by Marshall Kauffman’s Kings Promotions.

“Two undefeated guys coming in on the main event,” said Henderson, who is married with five children. “I know he has a good amateur pedigree and he throws good combinations. He is bringing it and I am bringing it. The third time’s a charm to finally make this fight happen. This is the next step in my career. A lot of fighters have been on ShoBox and have gone on to amazing careers, and now it’s my turn to do the same.”

Like his half-brother, U.S. Olympian Charles Conwell, the 24-year-old Steen of Cleveland also had a successful amateur career with a record of 85-15. In his last fight in November, Steen stopped Colombia’s Juan De Angel with a fifth-round TKO. In February of 2020, Steen needed less than a round to stop Kenneth Council in Hammond, Ind. Steen is co-promoted by Holden and Lou DiBella and managed by David McWater of Split-T Management.

“I have been going from training camp to training camp,” Steen said. “I am going to mix it up, and out box him with a lot of jabs. Then when I see his weakness, I am going to get him out. Kalvin is a come-straight-forward fighter and he punches hard. I was supposed to fight him before, so this fight has been brewing for a while.”

Janelson Bocachica vs. Shinard Bunch – 10-round Welterweight Bout

A native of Puerto Rico and fighting out of Detroit, Mich., Bocachica is just 22 years old and already has five years of pro experience, including two appearances on ShoBox. This will be his third appearance on the series in nine months. He is coming off his best win to date, a majority decision win over previously unbeaten Mark Reyes, Jr. An aggressive, come-forward fighter, Bocachica began boxing at age eight, won four consecutive Ringside Championships (2011-14), the National PAL Championships and the 2015 Detroit Golden Gloves. He boasts an amateur record of 60-5 and beat Brandun Lee in the finals to win the 2014 U.S. Junior National Olympics. He is trained by his father, Nelson Figueroa. Bocachica is managed by McWater and co-promoted by King’s Promotions and Salita Promotions.

“This is what ShoBox is known for: matching up fighters for great fights,” Bocachica said. “Shinard Bunch is a step up in competition. He is from the same gym as Mark Reyes, and you saw what I did to him, On July 23, it will be much of the same. Fighting on SHOWTIME has helped with my profile. When I went to Puerto Rico, people knew who I was because of my previous experience on ShoBox. Being on the platform has brought me many new fans.”

Bunch is a Queens, N.Y.-native living and training in Trenton, N.J. Just 21-years-old, Bunch has been active with five fights in 2020 and five fights thus far in 2021. Bunch has more than 400 amateur fights and started boxing at age 7. He was rated as high as No. 3 in the nation at the 2016 Nationals. Currently riding a 13-fight winning streak, Bunch’s only pro loss came in 2019 in just his third fight, a unanimous loss to Paul Kroll. Bunch is managed by Russell Peltz.

“We are coming to work and make a statement,” Bunch said. “I really do not know too much about my opponent. I know he is a pressure fighter. I am not taking this fight lightly. This is a big fight, and we are going to box smart. This is a blessing to have an opportunity like this. Fighting on ShoBox is something that I have always dreamed of.”

Martino Jules vs. Aram Avagyan – 8-round Featherweight Bout

The 23-year-old southpaw Jules from Allentown, Pa., is coming off his best victory to date in an ESPN bubble fight last July, earning a majority-decision win over Aleem Jumakhonov. Jules is a 2015 Olympic Trials qualifier and had a 60-15 amateur record since turning pro in 2016 and slowly climbing up the featherweight rankings. Jules was scheduled to make his ShoBox debut in January, but his opponent fell ill the morning of his fight and the fight was called off.

“I am grateful for getting this fight,” said Jules, who is promoted by Kings Promotions and managed by Trifon Petrov. “This is something I have been waiting for a year now. I was supposed to fight on ShoBox before, but the fight fell out. I have been staying ready. My opponent is tough, and he comes ready to fight. He has a lot of merit to him, and that is pushing me to be better and I am excited to fight someone that will make me perform at my best.”

Fighting under the Salita Promotions banner, the 30-year-old Avagyan returns to ShoBox for the third time facing his fourth consecutive unbeaten fighter. In January, Avagyan and Panama’s Jose Nunez fought to a majority draw. Avagyan survived two early knockdowns in his debut against then-unbeaten Dagoberto Aguero to earn a majority decision in the last ShoBox telecast before the COVID-19 pandemic shut down the sports world for several months in March 2020.

Born and raised in Yerevan, Armenia, and now residing in California, Avagyan is a decorated amateur with more than 300 fights. He captured two Bronze Medals at the European Championships and represented Armenia at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

“I’m always hungry and want to fight and the fact that it will be on the 20-year anniversary of ShoBox is doubly motivating to put on a great show,” said Avagyan. “I’m gradually gaining shape and I have another month to show my best side to all boxing fans. I promise that I’m going to war on July 23. Don’t miss this event and the war of the warrior!”

International Boxing Hall of Famer Barry Tompkins will call the action with fellow Hall of Famer Steve Farhood, former world champion Raul Marquez and special guest Al Bernstein. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

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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
This year, the critically acclaimed prospect developmental series, ShoBox: The New Generation, celebrates its 20th anniversary on the air as it continues to match top young talent tough. Since its inception in July 2001, 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 84 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.