Heavyweight contender Bogdan Dinu is training hard in his hometown of Buzau, Romania, and getting some excellent sparring work from former foe Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller as he prepares to face Daniel “Dynamite” Dubois for the Interim WBA World Heavyweight Championship.

The 6? 5? WBA #2-rated Dinu (20-2. 16 KOs) will face the 6? 5? WBA #11-rated Dubois (15-1, 14 KOs) of Greenwich, London, United Kingdom, on Saturday, June 5. An upset victory over the heavily hyped Dubois will put Dinu one step away from realizing his dream of becoming the first Romanian heavyweight champion of the world.*

Joining the 34-year-old Dinu in camp are his brother George, co-trainer Ross Woolgrove and strength and conditioning coach Daniel Ortega. And this week, to provide world-class sparring, is well-known heavyweight contender and promotional stablemate Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller, who stopped Dinu in four rounds in 2018. The pair have remained friends.

“I am training in my home city in my own gym,” explained Dinu between workouts. “I have everything I need here and it’s going really good with Jarrell. He’s one of the most dangerous heavyweights in the world. He puts on a lot of pressure and that’s good for me to prepare for this fight. It’s an important fight and I must win!”

Dinu says he’s working on a surprise for the vaunted 23-year-old Dubois, who was considered a red-hot prospect before coming up short against fellow undefeated Brit Joe Joyce last November for the WBC Silver, WBO International, EBU European, Commonwealth (British Empire) and BBBofC British Heavyweight Championships. In the press, pre-fight, Dubois has been promising to knock Dinu out and return to the fast track.

“I see a young heavyweight who likes to fight, but has only faced easier opponents,” Dinu observed about Dubois. “His only tough fight was against Joe Joyce and we saw what happened. You’ll see by the result of our fight that his big reputation is exaggerated. He’s promising to knock me out? He’s just saying words because he hasn’t met me yet. He will have a big surprise when he looks in my eyes, just as tall as he is and not afraid of him at all. I am going to be very well-prepared and I have a lot of surprises for this kid.”

Dinu last fought in October 2020 with a second-round stoppage of German veteran Frank Bluemle in October 2020. His promoter, Greg Cohen, founder and CEO of Greg Cohen Promotions, says his fighter will be a different man when he shows up for battle on June 5.

“Bogdan Dinu has only lost to two of the top contenders in the division in Miller and Kubrat Pulev and he really should have won the Pulev fight,” said Cohen. “Bogdan is a very smart, experienced, tough guy with a great amateur pedigree and I don’t think Daniel Dubois is ready for someone with his world-class skills and experience. Dinu is working every day in camp with Jarrell, who is pushing him to his limits and taking him to new levels as a fighter. After June 5, Bogdan Dinu will be the interim WBA heavyweight champion in line to face one of the top dogs.”

*The WBA ranks Anthony Joshua as their super champion, Trevor Bryan as their regular champion, Robert Helenius as their gold champion and Manuel Charr as their champion in recess.
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About Greg Cohen Promotions

One of boxing’s premier promotional outfits, Greg Cohen Promotions (GCP) is a well-respected name for staging world-class professional boxing events and promoting elite professional fighters throughout the world.

Founder and CEO Greg Cohen has been involved with professional boxing in various capacities since the late 1980s, honing his craft and establishing himself as a shrewd international boxing businessman.

Distinguished by his ability to spot and develop raw talent, Cohen is lauded for his expert guidance of, among many others, current WBA Middleweight Champion Rob Brant from Minnesota, top-rated heavyweight contender Jarrell “ Big Baby” Miller from New York and former WBA Junior Middleweight Champion Austin “No Doubt” Trout of New Mexico. All three fighters, under Cohen’s promotional watch, went from unknowns to prospects to national television stars.

In addition, Greg Cohen Promotions has worked with established names such as former unified and two-time heavyweight champion Hasim “The Rock” Rahman and all-time-great multiple-weight class world champion James “Lights Out” Toney, as well as former WBA World Champion Ismael Barroso and former WBO-NABO Super Middleweight Champion “Mean” Joe Greene.

Greg Cohen Promotions has hosted world-class boxing events in the finest venues throughout the United States and the world and has also proudly provided talent and/or content for several television networks including HBO, Showtime, ESPN, ESPN+, DAZN, CBS Sports, MSG and FOX Sports Net.

LOS ANGELES, CA (May 18, 2021): Undefeated contender Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (41-0, 27 KOs) will make his Golden Boy debut in a Mexico vs. Cuba battle as he takes on Sullivan Barrera (22-3, 14 KOs) in a 12-round light heavyweight fight. The event will take place on Friday, July 9 and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN
worldwide.

Details regarding the venue, which will be in Los Angeles, will be announced shortly.

“There are a lot of major players in the light heavyweight division right now, and Gilberto Ramirez is ready to demonstrate that he is very much among them,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. “Sullivan Barrera possesses a decorated amateur background and has a lot of experience in this weight class, but Ramirez is totally committed to becoming a two-division champion. Zurdo’s world title campaign and his journey to 50-0 will start on July 9.”

Despite being only 29 years old, Ramirez has over a decade of experience under his belt, debuting as a professional in 2009 and embarking on a career that would see him defeating the likes of Maxim Vlasov, Jessie “Hard Work” Hart and “King” Arthur Abraham, whom he defeated to become the WBO Super Middleweight World Champion. After five defenses of his belt, Ramirez moved up to light heavyweight, where he has scored wins against Thomas “Kryptonite” Karpency and Alfonso “El Tigre” Lopez. Ramirez’s goal is to maintain his undefeated streak beyond 50 fights and to become a two-division world champion.

“I’m excited to be headlining this show in Los Angeles with Golden Boy Promotions,” said Gilberto Ramirez. “It’s going to be a great night of boxing with fans back in the stands. I’ve always enjoyed fighting here, and I can’t wait to put on a show to continue my hunt for the light heavyweight championship. I appreciate Oscar and the Golden Boy family for their love and support, and I look will forward to a great night of boxing.”

In 2009, Barrera culminated a spectacular amateur career, defected from Cuba to the United States, and made his professional debut in Miami, Florida. In only his eighth fight, he captured two regional titles by defeating Frank Paines, which he followed with victories against the likes of Jeff “Left Hook” Lacy and Karo Murat. Barrera suffered his first defeat against Andre “S.O.G.” Ward, but returned to score wins against Vyacheslav “Lion Heart” Shabranskyy and Joe Smith Jr. The 39-year-old contender has also faced the likes of Dmitry Bivol, Sean Monaghan and Jesse Hart.

“I’m excited to have the opportunity to headline such a big card against Gilberto Ramirez,” said Sullivan Barrera. “I know that my opponent is a former world champion with a lot of experience and that he will come very much prepared. However, I feel that I have faced much better opposition. I’ve also spent my entire career in the light heavyweight division, something that will be totally new for him. It will be a difficult fight, but I will walk away with my hands raised in victory.”

In the co-main event, Joseph “Jo Jo” Diaz Jr. (31-1-1, 15 KOs) of South El Monte, California will step up to 135 pounds to take on Javier “El Abejon” Fortuna (36-2-1, 25 KOs) of La Romana, Dominican Republic in a 12-round bout.

“I’m stepping in for Ryan Garcia to challenge Javier Fortuna,” said Joseph Diaz Jr. “I wish him nothing but the best. Mental health is a very important matter that people should deal with. I’m excited and ready to go out there and redeem myself to all my fans. I’m extremely focused and locked in. Fight night is going to be a movie. I’ll be putting the whole 130 and 135-pound division on notice.”

“I’m very happy that Jo Jo Diaz has accepted the challenge to face me, as long as after the fight he makes no excuses for getting knocked out”, said Javier Fortuna. “I give Diaz credit for having the balls to fight me. Devin Haney doesn’t have those balls. But after I win this fight, Haney will have 90 days to find them. Haney can run but he can’t hide. Fight me or give up the WBC title!”

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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 lightweight battle 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 and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN fworldwide.

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.

DAVID ADELEYE reckons Heavyweight rivals will quickly realise he’s the “real deal,” when they feel the power of his punches.

The Londoner dismissed criticism he received after his points win against Polish star Kamil Soko?owski last month.

Matchmakers had found it tough to match Adeleye (6-0, 5KOs), but the Londoner believes opponents might now be more willing to face him after that narrow points win.

He said: “A lot of fighters who were turning me down before will be getting confidence, but reality will hit then when they get in there with me.

“It might be the best thing that has happened.

“When I get in there and when they see what I do to them people will say, ‘Wow, David Adeleye is the real deal.’”

Adeleye insists he wasn’t stung by the knockers after being taken the distance for the first time as a professional.

“The flak is part of the game to be fair,” added Adeleye. “I am thick skinned so it doesn’t even affect me. If people watch that fight in silence they will see I was the rightful winner.

“The commentators are used to seeing me on my front foot but being on the back foot was part of the game plan.

“My corner thought I won clearly. I thought I won. If I had any fear that it wasn’t going to go my way I would have put my foot on the gas and stepped it up.

“The commentators are doing their job as they see it and I am not here to knock them.”

Adeleye, 24, is hoping to return to action this Summer after recovering from a shoulder problem and he would love Sokolowski again to be in the opposite corner.

He says: “If it was to down to me I would have the rematch right away, but that isn’t down to me. Who I fight is down the people who are good at doing their job.

“Everything is analysed these days. We live in a world where everyone has an opinion and some just give negative feedback which is part of the world we live in.

“If I bang someone out I am hammering them too soon. I go the distance,  instead of looking at positives they say; ‘David should have knocked him out.’

“If I drank a Pepsi, someone would ask, ‘Why aren’t you drinking Coca Cola?’ You can’t win.

“The thick skin helps because I can brush it off.”

Tommy McCarthy has signed a promotional deal with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing and will face Chris Billam-Smith in a huge showdown for the European, British and Commonwealth Cruiserweight Titles at Fight Camp this summer. 
 
The big-punching Belfast native captured the vacant EBU crown after a hard-fought majority decision victory over Bilal Laggoune at The SSE Arena, Wembley last October before knocking out Romania’s Alexandru Jur in six rounds in his first defence at the AO Arena, Manchester over the weekend. 
 
‘Mac Attack’ (18-2, 9 KOs), who is trained by Peter Taylor and managed by Mark Dunlop, has previously held the WBC International Title and boats a top ten ranking in the WBC, IBF and WBA.
 
The 30-year-old is targeting World Title action once he gets past Bournemouth’s Billam-Smith in Essex and hopes to headline The SSE Arena, Belfast – where he has fought on Carl Frampton and Ryan Burnett undercards –  alongside stablemate James Tennyson.
 
“It’s the dream for every boxer,” said McCarthy. “Matchroom is the leading promotional outfit in world boxing so to finally be an official member of the team is brilliant for my career. Chris Billam-Smith is the last hurdle I have to jump over to get a shot at my ultimate goal which is the become a World Champion. I’ve got no problem fight him – he’s easy work. 
 
“After I beat Billam-Smith I would like to fight for a version of the Cruiserweight World Title – one of the four major Titles. I’m ranked top ten in the WBC, IBF and WBA, and the WBO Champion Lawrence Okolie is signed with Matchroom. The Okolie fight will obviously be the easiest one to make now that we’re both signed to Matchroom, but I’d like to fight for any of them – I’m not fussed which one. 
 
“Getting Matchroom back over to Belfast would mean the world to me. Going into my last fight, all of the boxing fans in Belfast were putting their hopes on me to bring big time boxing back to the city. Now that I’m with Matchroom, I’ve got the right team around me to bring the big nights back.”
 
“I’m delighted to officially welcome Tommy to the Matchroom team,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “Tommy took the risk to travel to Italy against Turchi and followed it up by winning the European Title and successfully defending it on Saturday. Now we’ve made a cracker between Tommy and Chris Billam-Smith for Fight Camp and the winner is going to be perfectly placed to go on and challenge for a World Title.”
 
“I am delighted that Tommy has been rewarded by Eddie and Frank with this amazing promotional agreement for this loyalty and bravery over the past three years,” said McCarthy’s manager Mark Dunlop. “He now joins stablemate James Tennyson in the most amazing and powerful promotional company in the world and looks forward to bringing big time boxing back to Belfast.”
 
You can follow McCarthy’s journey on Twitter: @TommyMac90 and Instagram: tommymac90
 

BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION, Texas (May 14, 2021)–Due to unforeseen circumstances, the May 28th boxing event at Reed Arena has been moved to Friday night, September 24th.

About Reed Arena:
Prominently located on the Texas A&M University campus, Reed Arena serves as the home court for the Aggies’ men’s and women’s basketball teams and women’s volleyball team. This multi-purpose venue can also host a variety of other events including major touring concerts, family shows, rodeo, private events, motorsports and comedy. It is conveniently located within minutes of Bryan-College Station’s Easterwood Airport and the Northgate entertainment district, and within walking distance of the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library Center, the Memorial Student Center and the Texas A&M Hotel and Conference Center, as well as Texas A&M’s impressive athletics complex of Blue Bell Park (baseball), E.B. Cushing Stadium (track & field), Davis Diamond (softball), Ellis Field (soccer), Gilliam Indoor Stadium (track & field), Kyle Field (football) and the Mitchell Tennis Center (tennis). To purchase tickets, please call: 888-99Aggie (888-992-4443) or 979-845-2311. You may also visit www.ReedArena.com for more information.

About Texas A&M Athletics | Home of the 12th Man:
One of the most successful Athletics Departments in the nation, Texas A&M ranked No. 15 in the most recent Learfield IMG College Directors’ Cup standings and is one of eight Division I institutions nationally to finish in the top 20 of the prestigious ranking of athletics success for at least 13 consecutive years. For more information, go to www.12thMan.com.

About Texas A&M University:
Texas A&M University, the flagship university within the Texas A&M University System, is a tier-one research institution with nearly $1 billion in research grants and more than 69,000 students. The President of Texas A&M University has strategic oversight for campuses in Bryan-College Station and Galveston, Texas and Doha, Qatar. Located on the campus of Texas A&M University is The Health Science Center with the College of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmacy, as well as The Texas A&M School of Law and Mays Business School. For more information, go to www.tamu.edu.

About Libonati Entertainment Group
Libonati Entertainment Group is a team of well-versed production, operations, ticketing, promotion, and general site management professionals. We design, create, and produce both public and private events. We have experience and expertise in events ranging from small private events to large-scale 80,000 person festivals. Our event DNA stems from the Arena, Stadium, and Outdoor Festival business. Creating the most economically impactful events over the last two decades at multiple venues in Nevada and across the country.

Bouts Subject to Change

For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please like the Banner Promotions Facebook Page, and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @BannerBoxing

Congratulations to 15rounds.com own Norm Frauenheim for placing 1st place in the BWAA Writing Awards in the column category.

Frauenheim’s winning entry, Defiance not enough to keep coronavirus off an island or the UFC on ESPN, Dana White taps out beat all other submissions in the category.

Well deserved for a great writer and better person.

Congrats Norm

(May 17, 2021) Last Saturday night, 5’ 9” super flyweight Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora made her successful professional boxing debut with an exciting unanimous four-round decision over fellow Californian southpaw Jazmin Valverde Medina.

Fighting on the undercard of Brandon Figueroa’s Showtime-televised WBC World and WBA Super World Super Bantamweight Championship-winning KO 7 over former world champion Luis Nery at the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California, the 19-year-old Fundora (1-0) dropped Medina in round two and cruised to an impressive near-shutout victory (scores: 40-35, 39-36 and 40-35).

The scores, however, are not indicative of the excitement the two women generated in an exciting punch-out. The heavy underdog Medina came to fight.

“I felt great!” said Fundora. “I’m glad I was able to showcase my talent on such a great platform on Showtime. I delivered a body shot and followed it up with a right hook that dropped her in the second round and every round after that, we mixed up the punches in bunches.”

A former accomplished amateur, Fundora says she’s relieved to have her first professional fight completed successfully. “We have been preparing for our debut for a while and now that we were able to get our first fight in the books,” she admitted. “We will keep building up from there. We have a great promoter who wants to keep us busy, so we will be starting camp Monday in preparation for his confirmation of our next date.”

Fundora is the daughter in a fighting family that also includes undefeated WBC #5-rated super welterweight contender Sebastian “Towering Inferno” Fundora and her father/trainer Freddy Fundora. “I really liked the performance of both fighters,” said the elder Fundora, “from the very first round they both came in to win by throwing lots of punches with impressive speed. They showed what women’s boxing should look like. She (Gabriela) is a great student of the sport and all of her hard work and dedication paid off.”

“My sister did exactly what we train in camp to do and she showcased her skills with exciting strength!” added proud brother Sebastian.

Promoter Sampson Lewkowicz says he’s happy with Lady Fundora’s performance and will be looking to keep her very busy throughout the rest of the year.

“She is special,” said Lewkowicz, who is also known for discovering previously unknown talents including superstars Sergio Martinez, Javier Fortuna, her popular brother Sebastian, super middleweight star David Benavidez, WBA Interim Featherweight champ Eduardo “Zurdito” Ramirez, former unified king Jeison “Banana” Rosario, undefeated Michel Rivera, KO punching South American Amilcar Vidal, and the all-time-great Manny Pacquiao. “I will keep Gabriela fighting as much as possible in 2021, to get her experience for a championship fight. It won’t take long before she’s prepared to face anyone in the world. She is a special fighter.”
About Sampson Boxing

Sampson Boxing has promotional partners all over North and South America, Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe and Central America. Sampson Boxing events have been televised on such premiere networks as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, ESPN+, DAZN, VS., FOX, Fox Sports and several international networks. For more information, visit sampsonboxing.com.

BRAD FOSTER reckons he is ready to conquer Europe after cleaning up domestically.

Foster has boxed just 16 times as a professional, but already fought five British Super-Bantamweight title fights, winning a Lonsdale belt for keeps.

He beat Josh Wale in March 2019 to win his domestic title. Foster then defeated Ashley Lane, drew with Lucien Reid, won their rematch and outpointed James Beech Jr last July.

Lichfield’s Foster, 23, is mandatory challenger for the European crown held by Doncaster’s Jason Cunningham, who shocked Gamal Yafai this past weekend.

Foster (14-0-2, 5 KOs) said: “I have the Lonsdale belt outright and I am mandatory for Jason’s title so I want to move up the levels and challenge myself even more.

“I don’t want to be staying at British level because I have won it outright.

“There is a final eliminator for my British title coming up, but fighting the winner isn’t going to help my World ranking.

“What is the point of staying at British level when I have won the Lonsdale belt outright? That was one of my goals.

“Who knows if I will defend the British title, but I am looking forward. I am mandatory for the European title so that is the one I look at.”

In March, Brad added the IBF International championship to his British and Commonwealth belts when he impressively outpointed Spaniard Alvaro Rodriguez.

That victory earned Foster a top ten ranking for the title currently held by unified champion Murodjon Akhmadaliev, who is also the WBA champion.

Foster is also keen to get in the queue for WBO champion Stephen Fulton, WBC title holder Luis Nery and he would also relish facing Michael Conlan.

He added: “I want to get some good world rankings, pick up some titles on the way and eventually become world champion.

“Guys like Michael Conlan and world title fights appeal, but they are further down the line. For now, I want to keep on progressing.

“The current world champions are all good fighters. I am building myself up to that level. I wouldn’t say I am ready to jump in for a world title right now.

“In the future, of course. I am only 23, had five British title fight and won it outright. I didn’t have any amateur boxing experience and have a kickboxing background.”

Foster returned to training earlier this month and is hoping to have his second fight of 2021 this summer.

“I injured my left hand when I hit Rodriguez with a left hook. I let it rest, but I started punching again last week,” said Foster.

“I’m looking forward to a fight date. We are waiting on a few things, but I would like to be out in July.”

“I am still learning and as Frank Warren says, I have gone under the radar and most people don’t know what I’ve achieved at my age.

“My job is to keep on winning and they will notice me.”

‘THE EAGLE’ Charlie Edwards has migrated to Portugal and believes his new nest in the Algarve is the ideal base as he plots his flight to the top of the super-flyweight division.

The former WBC World Flyweight champion Edwards, 28, moved to Vilamoura with his wife Kristin and their baby daughter Sofia last month.

Charlie jumped two weights to Bantamweight for his Queensberry debut last September when he outpointed Kyle Williams but is planning an attack on the 115lb Super-flyweight division when he returns to action.

Charlie said: “This is the first time in 17 years that I have taken two months off completely. It has given me a new drive, new hunger and new ambition.

“I am training now and going to start more boxing training so I can get my flow back.

“This journey is going to excite me even more. Right now, I am in a very good place and I’m looking forward to getting back in.

“My plan is to have a tough ten or twelve rounder for an International title when I return and then kick on.

“I have been back punching, doing little bits, strength work and feel revitalised. I have lost nothing.

“It has been nice to reset myself and move to a country where I feel happy and confident in myself again.

“The plan is to stay here in Portugal. My Missus and I have decided to move the family here. We want our daughter to grow up in a nice environment.

“Becoming a Dad has been challenging. Being locked down in England wasn’t the best thing for us so coming out here has me happy and thriving.

“Once our house has been sorted, which will be sooner rather than later, I can push on with my career.”

Edwards revealed he has left the Steel City gym in Sheffield where he was trained by Grant Smith and will do most of his training in Portugal.

He will either base himself in England or the United States for the final eight weeks of camp.

He explained: “I have a number of ideas and thoughts in my head and I am not going to rush. I have a friend who trains coming out here to get me fight fit.

“I have achieved all that I have set out to achieve on my career bucket list in the UK so I would like to train here, set up my own gym and eight weeks before a fight I may go to America.

“I also have another British coach in mind who I do want to try out in the UK but I don’t want to go into details yet.”

Edwards (16-1, 6KOs) admits he suffered mentally with the stresses of getting down to Flyweight and the Croydon man relinquished his World title shortly after a no-contest against Julio Cesar Martinez in August 2019.

He said: “I have left the dark days behind me. I suffered a little bit especially around the Martinez fight – making Flyweight and putting my health on the line.

“I wasn’t enjoying it and fell into a bit of depression with the boxing side of things through having to make that light weight.

“I came out of the other side and it was still a challenge getting through to my next fight which was my Frank Warren debut.

“I got through that, won every round, jumping two weights to Bantamweight and now I’m in Portugal I feel happy, revitalised and like the old Charlie Edwards where I can dedicate myself.

“When I do get back I will go away, focus and reach the top levels again.”

Brandon Figueroa stopped Luis Nery in round seven to add the WBC Super Bantamweight title to add to his WBA belt at the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.

It was a rugged fight with the fight being mostly contested on the inside. Nery got the better of most of the first part of the fight. The tide began to turn at the end of round six with Figueroa landing power shots on the inside. In round seven he continued the accuracy until he landed perfect left to the solar plexus that sent Nery down for the count at 2:!8.

Figueroa, 121.2 lbs of Weslaco, TX is now 22-0-1 with 17 knockouts. Nery, 122 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 31-1.

Brandon Figueroa

“It feels amazing, this is a dream come true. I know everyone doubted me, but here I am with the belt. It’s all thanks to hard work and dedication.

“You saw tonight what I can do. I brought it to him and the hard work paid off. We did our homework. We did a great job in the gym and just took it to him.

“The plan was to break him. Joel Diaz told me to pressure him and that he wouldn’t last. That’s exactly what happened.

“I knew he was getting tired, he was trying to box me. I saw him breathing heavy. My team just said it was time to go get him.

“We’ve been waiting for this fight against and it’s finally gonna happen. I knew I had to get through Luis Nery first. Everything has it’s time. I envisioned that I was going to beat Nery and now I see myself beating Fulton. I know he’s coming with everything he’s got and that we’re gonna give the fans a hell of a show.”

Stephen Fulton

“Hell of a performance by Brandon tonight. That’s what I predicted would happen. This is my time now though. I’ve been waiting for this moment to finally fight Brandon.

“I knew that Brandon would fight how he always fights. I’m just ready for my time against him. We’re going to put on a hell of a performance. Congratulations to him tonight, but I’m coming next.”

Roman decisions Espinoza

Former unified world champion Danny Roman won a 10-round unanimous decision over Ricardo Espinoza in a super bantamweight fight

It was a spirited battle that was fought at close quarters throughout. In round eight, Espinoza began bleeding from his face.

Roman landed of 220 of 756 punches; Espinoza was 190 of 724.

Roman, 122 lbs of Los Angeles won by scores of 98-92 twice and 97-93 and is now 29-3-1. Espinoza, 121.6 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 25-4.

Danny Roman:

“This win is a step closer to getting back on top and getting a world title once again. I knew he was a tough fighter who hit hard, so I had to fight smart and make adjustments.

“I started to get my distance and started fighting my fight and controlling the ring. Once I did that, everything started to fall into place. I was surprised he went the distance, but he has a lot of heart. He’s a tough fighter.

“I’m the mandatory, so I want a title shot now. I want the winner of the main event.

“I won the mandatory for the WBC belt in September against Payano. I am the mandatory to fight the champion. I had a great fight tonight and I believe deserve the chance.

“I still got it, I am still up there. I am just waiting to get back on top.

On Murodjon Akhmadaliev: “I still want the rematch. I still have unfinished business in MJ. I don’t know what he’s got scheduled but I will take that fight.

“He was bleeding, he was hurt. But he came to fight. He came to die in the ring. He has a lot of guts. But it was my night.” 

“He was open for those uppercuts. I adjusted to his fighting style, he was more aggressive than I thought he would be. But then when I adjusted, those uppercuts were there for me all night.”

“The guy hits hard. He is a strong fighter. But you know what? I was more resistant and I took his shots. He wasn’t able to take my shots.”

Ricardo Espinoza:

“I felt good overall. I could have pressured him a bit more, close his angles, but it was a good fight.

“Now I want to rest and look forward to my next fight. You win some, you lose some, and tonight I lost.

“Danny is a tough fighter who withstood a lot of shots to the head, a quality opponent.”

Martinez Decisions Burgos

Xavier Martinez remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over three-time world title challenger Juan Carlos Burgos in a junior lightweight bout.

Martinez landed 329 of 891 punches; Burgos was 261 of 830.

Martinez, 131.6 lbs of Sacramento, CA won by scores of 99-91 on all cards and is now 17-0. Burgos, 131.8 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 34-5-2.

Xavier Martinez:

“I wasn’t surprised he came forward. He’s a tough competitor. I thank him for taking the fight, he was tough as hell. These kind of fights are going to help me get better.

“It was a fun fight. I know the fans enjoyed the fight. I thought I could have done better, but I was landing clean, hard shots throughout. Even when he was throwing, I was slipping a lot of them and catching him. I showed I can hang in there with tough fighters.

“I could have boxed him more but I wanted to give the fans action. There’s nothing to complain about – I got the victory. I made it tougher on myself but I will learn from it. It’s back to the drawing board but it’s a great victory.

“I fought two very experienced fighters back to back. I like these fights and I won’t complain. Whatever my team has in store for me, I will take it.

“It wasn’t that close. I could give him a round or two. There was a round or two where I stepped back too much. Even when he was throwing, I was catching and slipping.

“I do have a rivalry with Chris Colbert. That’s not a secret, everyone knows that. If we can make that happen, that would be cool. That would be a really fun fight for both of us. He’s a boxer, I come forward. We will cause a lot of fireworks with that one.”

Juan Carlos Burgos:

“I am happy and excited to put on a good show. All in all, I am just glad that the fans enjoyed the fight.

“He was a great opponent. Many people don’t know that I was brought in on late notice. Just two weeks in advance. That’s not an excuse but just the reality. Martinez fought a hell of a fight. He is definitely one of the best opponents I have ever faced.

On the scorecards: “I was shocked. I was surprised. I did not think I only won one round. The public opinion and the fact that the fans were booing is what I take with me today. The fans spoke louder than the cards. I am glad to have given them an exciting fight.”

Follow all the action as Luis Nery battles Brandon Figueroa for the WBA/WBC Super Bantamweight titles; The action starts at 10 PM ET with Xavier Martinez taking on Juan Carlos Burgos; The co-feature will pit former unified champion Danny Roman taking Francisco Espinoza

NO BROWSER REFRESH NEEDED; THE PAGE WILL UPDATE AUTOMATICALLY

Round 1: Jab from Nery..Big left…

Round 2 Right to body from Figueroa..Good body work from Nery…Nery throwing power shots….Counter..2 Left from Figueroa…Left hook…Left hook

Round 3 eft and right from Figueroa…Left uppercut..Left and right from Nery…2 lefts from Figueroa..

Round 4 Nice left from Figueroa…Left from Nery..Right from Figueroa…Left hook and left hook from Nery…Right from Figueroa..

Round 5 Body shot from Figueroa..2 lefts from Nery ..2 body shots…left to head..left from Figueroa.

Round 6 Exchanging body shots…Left to body from Nery..Good uppercut..3 left uppercuts…1-2 from Figueroa…

Round 7 Figueroa landing good shots to the head..  Swelling around left eye of Nery...LEFT TO THE BODY AND DOWN GOES NERY….HE CANT BEAT THE COUNT …FIGHT OVER

Round 1 Espinoza coming forward…Nice counter right from Roman…Double jab from Espinoza…counter right from Roman..Left…
Round 2 Right from Espinoza…Counter right from Roman…Right…3 punch combination from Espinoza…Beautiful right from Roman…Combination from Distance..
Round 3 Right from Espinoza…Good exchange….Lead right and uppercut on inside from Espinoza..Right…Body shot from Roman..Counter left
Round 4 Right to body from Espinoza….Lead left hook…Counter right from Roman…Good left to the body..Solid right…
Round 5 Lead left hook/right hand from Roman…Combination
Round 6 Left uppercut from Roman…Left from Espinoza…Counter from Roman…Jab..Right to body…Short left uppercut to body from Espinoza…Left from Roman…
Round 7 Good left from Roman…1-2 from Espinoza…Lead left uppercut from Roman…Body work from Espinoza..Right to body…Left to body from Roman…left uppercut…
Round 8 Left to body by Roman…Big left…Lead left uppercut…Blood on face of Espinoza…1-2 from Roman..Left to body…
Round 9 Doctor looking at Espinoza…left uppercut from Roman…Another left uppercut
Round 10 Double left from Roman…Uppercut…Lead left uppercut…

97-93 AND 98-92 TWICE FOR DANNY ROMAN

Round 1: Counter right from Martinez…2 jabs..Good right hand..Jab to the body..3 punch combination from Burgos..Body shot..1-2…
Round 2 Fierce exchange on the ropes…Martinez counters..Sweeping left hook..Right from Burgos…Jab from Martinez..Martinez gets better of exchange
Round 3  Good ehange…Left and right from Martinez….Right from Burgos
Round 4 Burgos scores with a combination…Right off the ropes…2 left hooks from Martinez…Great exchange
Round 5 Left upperut…Jab from Burgos..Martinez lands a jab….Jab..Combination from Burgos…Good combination on inside from Martinez..2 ,ore shots…uppercut from Burgos..Shoeshine and uppercut
Round 6 Body shot from Burgos..Nice eft-right from Martinez..Body shot from Burgos..Uppercut..Right from Martinez
Round 7 Martinez fighting off the ropes..Right..Body work from Burgos..Right uppercut from Martinez..
Round 8 Short shots from Martinez…Right…Burgos fighting off the ropes…Lead right from Martinez…Right..Double jab-right..Combination from Burgos..Uppercut from Martinez…
Round 9 Left from Martinez…
Round 10 Combination from Burgos…Right from Martinez..Toe to toe action…Left hook to body from Burgos…

99-91 ON ALL CARDS FOR MARTINEZ

MURFREESBORO, TN (May 15, 2021) – Last night, undefeated lightweight prospect, Tyler “Short Fuse” Tomlin (11-0, 7 KOs), made a statement in his debut with new promoter, DiBella Entertainment, as he stopped battle tested veteran, Tyronne “Hands of Stone” Luckey (13-14-4, 9 KOs), when Luckey was unable to answer the bell for the fourth round.

“I wanted to look good in my debut with DiBella Entertainment and provide an entertaining fight for my fans,” said Tomlin after the fight. “I felt I made a good impression with everyone watching. Luckey has faced world champions like Tevin Farmer, Alberto Machado, and emerging fighters like Ryan Garcia and Frank Martin. Winning this bout, and in the fashion I did, I felt I made a statement to everyone in the lightweight division.”

Tomlin, who was an offensive wrecking ball from the opening bell, landed some vicious body blows early, in addition to some powerful overhand rights, that led to his opponent’s demise. Luckey was fading from the colossal attack and after three rounds of punishment, it appeared only a matter of time before the knockout occurred, hence him not coming out for the fourth round.

“We trained hard for this fight, and the combinations Tyler was landing were the ones we practiced in the gym,” said Darryl Tomlin, Tyler Tomlin’s coach, and father. “We’re grateful to Lou DiBella and DiBella Entertainment for featuring us on this great card, and we look forward to being a part of upcoming shows, especially in Tennessee.”

Tomlin, a fan favorite, had fans driving from across the state to see him fight tonight.

“I want to thank everyone who drove to support me,” Ty Tomlin, continued. “I had people come from two-and-even-three-hours away just to see me fight. My supporters keep me motivated, and they’re a big reason I had this performance tonight.”

Social Media
DiBella Entertainment
Instagram: @DiBellaEnt
Twitter: @LouDiBella, @DiBellaEnt
Facebook: @DiBellaEntertainment

Tyler Tomlin
Instagram: @_TyTomlin
Twitter: @_TyTomlin
Facebook: @TyTomlin123

CARSON, CALIF. (May 15, 2021) – WBC Bantamweight World Champion Nordine Oubaali and future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire will meet in a long-awaited championship showdown on Saturday, May 29 headlining action live on SHOWTIME® in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will see hard-hitting contender Subriel Matias taking on undefeated Batyr Jukembayev in an IBF Junior Welterweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. In the telecast opener, unbeaten 2016 U.S. Olympian Gary Antuanne Russell will face Jovanie Santiago in a 10-round super lightweight clash.

“Oubaali and Donaire have been preparing to face each other for at least a year now, so you know these two warriors will be ready to let their fists fly once the bell finally rings on May 29,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Oubaali has proven himself a force at bantamweight and will have a chance to reach a new level with a victory against Nonito Donaire, who has solidified his Hall of Fame credentials by adding to his resume in recent years. With two exciting undercard fights leading up to our main event, this should be a high-stakes night from start to finish.”

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. Dignity Health Sports Park will be open to fans in a limited capacity, with all guests remaining socially distanced and subject to local and state health guidelines throughout the event.

Oubaali and Donaire will finally meet in the ring after they were originally scheduled to square off last year in a SHOWTIME main event. Oubaali will seek a career-best victory over a future Hall of Famer, while Donaire looks to add another triumph to his sterling career resume. The winner of this fight will have their eye on the winner of the upcoming showdown between former unified champion Guillermo Rigondeaux and WBO Bantamweight Champion John Riel Casimero, who are set to meet on SHOWTIME on August 14 in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

A two-time Olympian for France, the Pas-de-Calais native Oubaali (17-0, 12 KOs) will make his third title defense when he enters the ring to face Donaire. The 34-year-old southpaw won his title in his U.S. debut, besting former champion Rau’shee Warren in January 2019 on his way to a decision victory. Oubaali followed that up with successful defenses against Arthur Villanueva and Takuma Inoue. A pro since 2014, Oubaali’s rise up the rankings was buoyed by a stoppage victory over former world champion Julio Cesar Miranda in 2016.

“I’m very excited that this fight is finally here,” said Oubaali. “I know that fans around the world are eagerly waiting to see the two best bantamweights on the planet battle it out. Donaire is a legend in the sport and I respect him a lot, but I am the champion of the world and there is no doubt in my mind that my hand will be raised when we finally meet. I am fighting for my family and my country and by beating Donaire I will put my name in the history books of boxing. I am extremely motivated and I guarantee fireworks on fight night.”

One of the sport’s most accomplished active fighters, Donaire (40-6, 26 KOs) has captured titles at flyweight, bantamweight, super bantamweight and featherweight. Representing his native Talibon, Bohol, Philippines, Donaire moved back down to bantamweight in 2018 and upset then unbeaten champion Ryan Burnett in his hometown to capture a title once again. Donaire would add a knockout over Stephon Young before dropping his last outing, the 2019 Fight of the Year against unbeaten unified champion Naoya Inoue.

“I always come to bring a fight and entertain and I can’t wait to perform in front of the fans again on May 29,” said Donaire. “I showed in my last fight that I still have the skill, heart and determination to stand up against the best in this sport. I’m always working on ways to keep my body in shape and my reflexes on point while retaining my power. I can’t wait to show everything I can do in the ring against Oubaali.”

Fighting out of his native Fajardo, Puerto Rico, Matias (16-1, 16 KOs) most recently scored an impressive stoppage of previously unbeaten Malik Hawkins via a sixth-round TKO in their October 2020 clash on SHOWTIME. The 29-year-old bounced back from his previous outing, which saw him lose a narrow decision to Petros Ananyan. Prior to his lone loss, Matias stopped his first 15 opponents inside the distance, and has still yet to go to a decision in a victory.

“I’m very happy about this opportunity,” said Matias. “I appreciate my team for making this fight possible. The best man will win on May 29 and I commend my opponent for stepping up to the challenge. We’re going to deliver a great fight for the fans. I am the pride of Maternillo and this will be a victory for all of them.”

The 30-year-old Jukembayev (18-0, 14 KOs) rose up the rankings with a victory over former world champion Miguel Vazquez in September 2019 and most recently knocked out Ricardo Lara in January 2020. Born in Kazakhstan and having previously fought out of Montreal, Quebec, Canada, Jukembayev turned pro in September 2015 after compiling an impressive amateur record of 203-40. He will make his U.S. debut on May 29 when he faces his toughest test to date in the dangerous Matias.

“I’ve had a full training camp in Los Angeles with Manny Robles and I’m ready to showcase myself on the world stage,” said Jukembayev. “I’m undefeated and my time is now. I’m facing a strong and experienced opponent, but I believe that I have all of the tools to be victorious on May 29.”

The 24-year-old Gary Antuanne Russell (13-0, 13 KOs) has yet to allow an opponent to make it the distance against him since turning pro in 2017 following his run representing the U.S. at the 2016 Olympics. Russell added five more stoppage victories in 2019 before his most recent outing saw him knock out Jose Marrufo in the first round in February 2020. Russell is a boxing lifer in one of the sport’s preeminent fighting families, as he is trained by his father Gary Sr. alongside his older brothers, WBC Featherweight Champion Gary Jr. and bantamweight contender Antonio.

“I’m following in the footsteps of a champion, my older brother Gary Russell Jr.,” said Russell. “Our bloodline is strong. I’m among a bloodline of royalty. It’s only natural that I’m walking in his footsteps towards becoming a champion of my own. I’m looking forward to May 29. Another one bites the dust.”

Born in Bayamon, Puerto Rico and now residing in Dorado, Santiago (14-1-1, 10 KOs) impressed in his U.S. debut in February despite losing a competitive decision against four-division champion Adrien Broner on SHOWTIME. The 31-year-old had won four of five fights by knockout leading into the Broner fight, following a 10-round decision triumph over DeMarcus Corley in 2017. Santiago’s only blemish before the Broner fight was a majority draw in just his third pro contest.

“I always train very hard regardless of my opponent, and that’s no different this time for Russell,” said Santiago. “Everyone saw what I did against Broner. Now fighting at 140-pounds, I’m going to continue to show what I can do in this division. My opponent is strong, but I’m ready for whatever he brings. My performance will get me noticed for sure.”

# #

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.

London, UK (15 May 2021) Action-starved fight fans will now have the golden opportunity to attend a live Championship Boxing event on Saturday 22nd May at the Coventry Skydome Arena with tickets now on sale to general public for the must-see clash between Sam Eggington and Carlos Molina.

Hennessy Sports presents a thrilling night of action headlined with Eggington versus Molina for the Vacant WBC Silver Middleweight Championship, plus a host of big-fights featuring local talents and some of the best up-and-coming British and Irish prospects as boxing makes it big return.

Chief support features a cracking showdown between Birmingham’s silky skilled Kaisee Benjamin and Dumbarton’s Martin Harkin in an Eliminator for the British Welterweight Championship. Coventry sensation River Wilson-Bent defends his Midlands Area Middleweight title against Derby’s unbeaten George Farrell; the fast rising knockout star from County Monaghan welterweight hot-shot Stephen ‘The Hitman’ McKenna; Former British Light-Heavyweight Champion Shakan Pitters makes his return; Birmingham middleweight bombshell Idris ‘The Bodybreaker’ Virgo; Sevenoaks all-action super-welterweight Michael Hennessy Jr; Irish super-welterweight ace Brett McGinty and Brighton’s big-hitting heavyweight talent Tommy Welch.

Limited tickets are available to purchase now at £50 each from the Coventry Skydome Arena website https://iceaccount.co.uk/championship-boxing and following government guidelines tickets will be available to home fighters supporters only. When booking, tickets must be selected in adjoining seats in 2 Seat, 3 Seat up to a maximum of 4 Seats.

To ensure the safety of all patrons attending the event, the Coventry Skydome Arena and Hennessy Sports have put in place a host of procedures in line with SGSA guidance (SG02) and government advice that are detailed below and can be viewed online:

Spectator Code of Conduct
https://iceaccount.co.uk/legal/coventry/code-of-conduct

Spectator Self Risk Assessment
https://iceaccount.co.uk/legal/coventry/self-assessment

Spectator Planning your visit
https://iceaccount.co.uk/legal/coventry/plan-your-visit

Promoter Mick Hennessy is delighted to welcome boxing fans back into an arena to watch live action and promises a great night of entertainment.

He said, “We know that boxing fans have been desperate to return to arenas to watch boxing live and it gives me great pleasure along with Coventry Skydome Arena to open the doors on Saturday 22nd May for an evening of top quality action. And what a show for fans to return to, British hero Sam Eggington’s against Mexican warrior Carlos Molina will be a real war to top the bill, Coventry favourite Wilson-Bent, Kaisee in a crucial title eliminator, the return of Shakan, plus our dynamic young talents Stevie McKenna, Michael Hennessy Jr., Brett McGinty and Tommy Welch. We’ve worked long and hard with the Coventry Skydome Arena to allow fans’ back in and have taken the utmost precautions to ensure their safety and ultimately enjoy the return of top-flight boxing.”

CODE OF CONDUCT

As part of the government rules regarding spectators returning to Elite Sport, customers must agree to a code of conduct. This is an express term of entry and must be adhered to at all times for the safety of all spectators and staff.

You MUST NOT ATTEND if you have tested positive or shown symptoms of Covid 19 in the last 10 days, or if you have advised by app or Test and Trace to self isolate.
By purchasing tickets for this event you are agreeing to the government guidance regarding mixing indoors on the date of the event (May 22nd). The guidance can be found here https://www.gov.uk/guidance/covid-19-coronavirus-restrictions-what-you-can-and-cannot-do
Travel safely: ensure you are wearing a face covering while using public transport or sharing a vehicle.
At all times and in all parts of the Arena, please observe social distancing and avoid close contact with others not in your social or support bubble or group ticket booking.
Arrive in good time to go through all the necessary entry procedures.
All customers attending the venue will be asked to check in to the venue using the NHS COVID19 app.
All customers will be expected to wear a face covering at all times unless they are eating/drinking items purchased at the venue, unless they are medically exempt. This is mandatory from the moment you join the entry queue. If you have a medical exemption to wearing a face covering, please let us know in advance at boxoffice@planet-ice.co.uk
Be aware that all payments for concession areas inside the venue are contactless.
If you need to access any of the arena’s amenities, such as toilet or food and drink outlets, you must wear your face covering at all times on your way there and back.
Remain in your allocated seat at all times during your visit. You may only leave your seat to engage with our facilities (concession stands, toilets, external smoking area).
All food and drink purchased is to be consumed at your seats and not while walking back to seats.
If you do need to leave your viewing position, wait for a time when the gangway is clear and always follow the signs indicating which way to go. Give way to spectators coming down the stairs by stepping into the empty row to your left.
If you are in a seated area, when moving past other spectators to and from your seat, please avoid face to face contact with other spectators.
Maintain good hand hygiene – When you enter the venue please either wash or sanitise your hands. There are sanitising stations throughout the building and toilets located around the venue. Please sanitise or wash your hands frequently.
Please observe respiratory etiquette – always cover your mouth if needing to cough or sneeze.
Avoid hugs, handshakes and any close contact with people who are not within your family or support bubble.
If you are purchasing on behalf of others it is your duty to ensure they have read and understood these guidelines too.
If there is clear breach of the code of conduct during your visit or those visiting as part of your ticket group, the person who has breached the code of conduct may be asked to leave the venue and no refund will be provided.
SELF ASSESSMENT

The below assessment must be carried out by ALL customers attending the event, not just the ticket purchaser. If you are purchasing on behalf of others, it is your responsibility as the ticket purchaser to ensure all members have assessed themselves as suitable to attend.

Before attending any Covid-Secure events at the Arena, customers must first assess their own individual risks to establish it is suitable for them to attend. Customers should ask themselves the following questions:

Am I classed as vulnerable to Covid19 and therefore been advised to shield?
Have I been advised by Test and Trace to isolate?
Has the NHS App advised me to self-isolate?
Am I displaying any symptoms of Covid 19 within 14 days of the event?
Have I presented as positive for Covid 19 within 14 days of the event?
Do I have any issue with wearing a face mask or visor for the duration of the event?
Am I unable to travel safely and in a socially distanced fashion to and from the venue?
If the answer to any of these questions is “Yes” then it is not suitable for the customer to attend the event. A separate spectator code of conduct must also be agreed to be adhered to at all times. If the customer feels that they don’t agree with any element of that code of conduct, then they should also assess themselves as unsuitable to attend.

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Arrival

If you’re travelling by public transport we’ve asked you to wear your face covering and maintain distancing throughout. That also applies to the car park too – you’ll notice signage advising the wearing of face coverings right from leaving your car and they’ll need to stay on right up until you’ve left the event. Stewards will guide you from the car park door along the one way system to our entrance.
All customers will be searched at the door as standard, in a suitably spaced queue. Our guards will be wearing PPE and wherever possible carry out searches face-to-back.
A reminder of the in house rules will be there at the door to ensure you’re up to date and happy to proceed.
We may hold up the queue briefly in order to stop gatherings in the lobby. We’ve deployed extra staff to get you inside the venue quickly and safely.
Inside

Additional stewards will be on hand to show you where you’re seated and where your nearest bar and toilet facilities are.
Our bars and toilets will have managed queue systems to ensure you’re allowed suitable space for distancing and comfort. There’s floor markings to help you understand where you can stand safely. You may need to wait a little longer, though be assured we’ve got more staff to serve you quicker and will have all toilet facilities open despite the low capacity limit.
You’ll see additional hand sanitising facilities all over the venue. Sanitise regularly and help us all stay safe.
There’ll be announcements regarding covid safety throughout the night. You’ll already be following the rules, but a reminder of essential standards is always helpful!
Leaving

You’ll more than likely leave the venue through a different door to the entrance. Stewards will direct you to the car park or city centre. This will help us avoid a large build up and get you out quicker.
Remember, once you’re outside you can remove your face covering, but if you’re car sharing or on public transport you’ll need to keep it on. A safe event starts from the leaving the house right up to arriving home and we want you to stay safe at all times.
For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports

LOS ANGELES, CA (May 15, 2021) – Undefeated super bantamweight contender, Ra’eese “The Beast” Aleem (18-0, 12 KOs), who captured the WBA Interim title in his last fight, will be sitting ringside at today’s highly anticipated showdown between Luis Nery (31-0, 24 KOs) and Brandon Figueroa (21-0-1, 16 KOs).

Aleem, who is currently ranked WBA #1, is targeting all the champions at 122-pounds, especially WBO Champion, Stephen Fulton (19-0, 8 KOs). Since unified champion, Murodjon Akhmadaliev, who holds the IBF and WBA titles, fights for another network, Aleem says Fulton should be fighting him before he steps in the ring with the winner of Nery-Figueroa.

“Stephon Fulton is a great fighter, a good boxer, but if we step in the ring, I’ll give him his first loss.” Aleem stated. “He’s waiting on the sidelines for the winner of Nery-Figueroa, and we should be fighting, and the winner of Fulton and I should be fighting them. Let’s keep it real, every time I’ve stepped up, I’ve dominated. The biggest duck in the division is definitely Fulton.”

Aleem, who is managed by Greg Hannley of Prince Ranch Boxing and promoted by Marshall Kauffman’s Kings Promotions, is a on a mission to become the undisputed champion at super bantamweight, and won’t stop calling out all the champions until he gets his shot.

Joshua Buatsi stopped Daniel Dos Santos in round four of their scheduled 10-round light heavyweight at The Manchester Arena in Manchester, England.

In round four, Buatsi landed a devastating overhand right to the face of Dos Santos, who like a ton of bricks, and the fight was over at 2:44.

Buatsi, 174 lbs of Croydon, ENG is 14-0 with 12 knockouts. Dos Santos, 174.1 lbs of Point-Sainte-Maxence, FRA is 15-1.

“I hope he’s okay,” Buatsi told Matchroom. “We’ve seen this happen to many fighters. You box someone they say you’re levels above and it’s a banana skin situation. I’m glad I handled it. The most important thing is I hope he’s okay. We’ve seen these type of fighters come and cause upsets recently and I was adamant it wasn’t going to happen to me. I’m glad it went well.

“I remain optimistic all of the time in the moves that I make and this is one of them. We will have a week or so off and then we’re back in the gym to keep building. Going in we had little footage of him. Usually you can watch who you’re going to fight to get a feel. He looked very good in the one bit of footage we had of him. I had to learn round by round what he was like.

“Virgil gave me the perfect instructions and I followed them. I haven’t got here by being given it. The little that I’ve earnt, I had to work hard for it. I thank god for everything that we’ve got but I work hard for it. When I step in that ring it’s a dog mentality. This is a fight. I’m here to take everything. We’re here to win but we’re not here to hurt anyone. The time that we’re in the ring, yes, we want to win, and we want to entertain. We’re not here to hurt anyone in the long-term.”

Richards Decisons De Carolis

Lerrone Richards won an easy 12-round unanimous decision over Giovanni De Caolins in a super middleweight.

Richards, 167 lbs of New Malden, ENG won by scores of 120-108 twice and 119-109, and is now 15-0. De Carolis, 167.4 lbs of Vitebo, ITA is 28-10-1.

“I said I was going to conquer Europe, and I’ve done it,” Richards told Matchroom. “I’m very pleased and I’m very happy. I wanted this so bad to complete the collection. British, Commonwealth and now the European Super-Middleweight Champion. I’m very happy.

“It’s all of the drilling and all of the work in the gym. I’d like to thank my team – Dave Coldwell, Danny Wilson and my nutritionist Lee for getting me in the best shape possible for this fight. I’m going to be very difficult to beat. I said this from the start. It’s all about the skills, and I have them in abundance. I showcased a little bit of that tonight.

“There were points in the fight where I decided to sit in the pocket and work with him. I could have gone up the gears a little bit more tonight. I felt like what I was doing was enough. My team are very happy with my performance.

“I started from the bottom and worked my way up – I backed myself. There’s something to learn at every level. We’ll see what the team says the best options are for me. The next step now is fringe world level.”

Jason Cunningham dropped Gamal Yafai three-times en-route to a 12-round unanimous decision in a super bantamweight bout.

In round two, Cinningham dropped Yafai with a straight left. In round four, Cunningham dropped Yafai with a counter left. In round six, Cunningham dropped Yafai.

Yafai rallied down the stretch and hurt Cunningham down the stretch, but it was too little-too late as Cunningham won by scores of 115-110 and 114-111 twice.

Cunningham, 121.8 lbs of Doncaster, ENG is 29-6. Yafai, 121. lbs of Birmingham, ENG is 18-2.

Cunningham avenged a loss to Gamal’s brother Khalid.

“We’re buzzing,” said Cunningham. “We’re from a little town called Doncaster. We’ve got a British, European and World Champion – that’s some doing that. In at three weeks’ notice – I won my second Commonwealth Title at three weeks’ notice. They tried catching me out tonight, I don’t care what anyone says – that’s what they’ve done. 

“I’ve stayed prepared, stayed disciplined and dedicated. This is what happens when you stick to it. I was in this venue last time I had a big fight against Michael Conlan. I pushed Michael Conlan hard. I had to grit in late on tonight – he hurt me a few times to the body. I’ll never quit. It’s my boxing ability that sets me above the rest. I’m an awkward tall southpaw.

“I said I knew I had the tools to do it. I said I’d have done a better job if I had more notice but to be fair, I dropped him three times and it was quite comfortable really. I knew to keep calm and carry on what I was doing. I stuck to it and this is my reward. I made a lot of people in Doncaster a lot of money tonight.

“I showed my class, I was levels above him in terms of boxing ability. Usually you get a good ten weeks’ notice for a European Title fight – it was the biggest fight of my life. I’ve been out of the ring since February last year. Tonight was just my night, I knew I was all wrong for him.”

Tommy McCarthy stopped Alezandru Jur in round six of a scheduled 12-round cruiserweight bout,

In round four, McCarthy dropped Jur with a left to the body. Two rounds later, it was another left to the body, but this time Jur was down for the count of 10 at 2:09.

McCarthy, 199.4 lbs of Belfast, NI is 18-2 with nine knockouts. Jur, 198.7 lbs of Ordea, ROM is 19-5.

“I’m delighted,” McCarthy told Matchroom. “I got a few rounds in and a stoppage. I got everything that I wanted. We prepared for Jur to give me a good test. I don’t think he expected me to come out the way that I did. It threw him off a bit. I can’t complain.

“I thought it was all over after the first knockdown. Feinted to the head, left hook to the body and he went over. He went into survival mode after that. It was the same again with the next one. I’ve been working hard with my team all through camp. We’ve been doing all sorts of drills. We’ve been working on being explosive. The S and C training was all focused on me being explosive. I’m a hard puncher.

“Everything was perfect this camp – no injuries. I was driving them shots through him, it was great. The pandemic has been great for me, I’ve kept my head down, stayed in the gym and worked on my whole game. I hope everybody is buzzing back home in Belfast.

“I’ve got no problem fighting Chris Billam-Smith, it’s easy work. If this is the hurdle that I have to jump over for a World Title fight, then so be it. Chris Billam-Smith, stop Tweeting about me, stop talking about me – we’ll see you at Fight Camp.”

Dalton Smith remained undefeated with a beatdown sixth round stoppage over Lee Appleyard in a scheduled 10-round junior welterweight bout.

Smith dominated throughout until the fight was stopped at 2:44

Smith, 139.9 lbs of Sheffield, ENG is 8-0 with seven knockouts. Aplleyard, 139.1 lbs of Rotherham, ENG is 16-6-1.

“I’ve got my first professional Title,” said Smith. “I’ve dreamt about this since I was a little boy. I’m English Champion! It’s the starting block for me. When the fight first got announced, I thought, ‘it’s just an English Title’, but now I’ve got it it’s like, ‘wow, I’m a professional Champion now’. It feels good.

“All credit to Lee – he’s one tough kid. I was prepared for a fast-paced ten rounds tonight, but he was just taking a few too many shots in there. I’m good friends with Lee out of the ring. When you go in there it’s just business. I could see his face was getting bust up pretty bad. I kind of felt sorry for him in a way. I’ve got respect for him. I knew eventually the shots would come and I knew he wasn’t going to last long.

“I’m happy with my performance. You want to win in style. The knockouts are good. We want to win but we don’t want anyone to come out of there hurt. People forget that was my eighth pro fight there. Lee is an experienced guy and he’s been in with some top kids. He’s been those championship rounds.

“I’m taking my time, I’m 24. I’ve got one shot at boxing; I want to make sure that I do it right. I’m not in there with no mugs – they’re real contenders. That was a good step up and I proved what I’m about. I’m not a championship round fighter yet. Kay Prosper just boxed for the European Title – they’re the type of fights that I want. I want to get those championship rounds in, I’m in a tough division. Maybe I’ll get over to the States in my next fight, get a bit of experience over there. I’d love to do that.”

Solomon Dacres made a successful pro debut with an easy six-round unanimous decision over Mladen Manev in a heavyweight bout.

Dacres, 221.1 lbs of Birmingham, ENG won by a 60-54 score and is 1-0. Manev, 233 lbs of Sofia BUL is 3-9.

“It was good to get six rounds under my belt,” Dacres told Matchroom. “I know a lot of people like to get the big Heavyweights that get them out of there in one round, but you don’t learn much from that. I got to show my skills. I didn’t just go for all power. I’ve got plenty more in the tank, so it was good to get the rounds in.

“I showed my hand speed at times. I showed I can box. I didn’t rush it. I’ve varied the power up. It’s all building up. We’re training to be a twelve-round fighter, not just a one or two round knockout artist. You don’t gain much from getting someone that is going to fall over after a round. Six tough rounds, I got to go through the gears, show a bit of what I’m about and learn a little bit as well.

“I was pretty relaxed to be honest. I’ve had plenty of amateur fights. I know that I prepared very hard. It felt good to get in there. Hard work is at the route of it all. If you put that hard work and dedication in, the sky is the limit. I’ll keep putting my head down in the gym and performing in the ring.”

Jair Valtierra stopped Emanuel Lopez in round three of a scheduled 10-round lightweight bout at Auditorro Blackberry in Mexico City.

Valtierra landed a left to the body that sent Lopez down to a knee for the 10-count.

Valtierra is now `15-0 with eight knockouts. Lopez is 30-13-1.

Jonathan Ramirez stopped Jose Carillo in round four of their six-round junior lightweight fight.

Ramirez is now 1-4-1.

Axel Rai Miranda stopped Jesus Tampa in the opening round of debuting flyweights.

Deerfield Beach, Fla. (May 14, 2021)—Heavyweight boxer Christopher Lovejoy, who has an exclusive promotional agreement with Hall of Fame boxing promoter Don King, nor the promoters of Saturday’s boxing card in Germany, are complying with the Cease & Desist letter they received several weeks ago.

According to media reports, Lovejoy has agreed to face the WBA champion in recess Mahmoud Charr on Saturday night in Germany. 

Lovejoy filed for bankruptcy in California before departing for Germany to try to stop King from taking action on his exclusive promotional agreement in trying to stop Saturday night’s fight.   And promoter Errol Ceylan is illegally promoting a fight involving a DKP exclusively promoted fighter and knowingly and willingly, tortiously interfering with King’s agreement with Lovejoy.

“Lovejoy and the German promoter are defying the law,” said King.  “We have served them and justice will prevail.  We will see who will be “quacking” when we get to court and the legal process decides that everything is there in black and white.”

“Lovejoy is out there popping off and feels that this fight is for the WBA championship.

The WBA hasn’t sanctioned this illegal bout and they certainly won’t do so.  Trevor Bryan is the WBA champion.”

“What fighter shows up in Germany without a trainer or cut man and is totally out of shape, weighing 306 pounds.  Lovejoy lacks plain common sense.”

“See you in court along with your German promoter!   We’ll see who will be laughing last on Instagram.”

WBC Super Bantamweight World Title – 12 Rounds

Luis Nery – 122 lbs.

Brandon Figueroa – 121.2 lbs.

Referee: Thomas Taylor.

Judges: Edward Hernandez, Sr. (Calif.), Dr. Lou Moret (Calif.), Zachary Young (Calif.).

Super Bantamweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Danny Roman – 122.0 lbs. 

Ricardo Espinoza – 121.6 lbs.

Referee: Edward Collantes.

Judges: Rudy Barragan (Calif.), Edward Hernandez, Sr. (Calif.), Zachary Young (Calif.).

Super Featherweight Bout (132 lb. Catchweight) – 10 Rounds

Xavier Martinez – 131.6 lbs.

Juan Carlos Burgos – 131.8 lbs.

Referee: Jose Cobian.

Judges: Rudy Barragan (Calif.), Don Deverges (Calif.), Dr. Lou Moret (Calif.).

ABOUT NERY VS. FIGUEROA

Nery vs. Figueroa will see two elite undefeated 122-pound champions meet as Luis Nery defends his WBC Super Bantamweight World Championship against Brandon Figueroa in a 12-round showdown live on SHOWTIME Saturday, May 15 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif. in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

In the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING co-feature, former unified super bantamweight world champion Danny Roman faces Ricardo Espinoza in a 10-round battle at 122 pounds, while undefeated rising star Xavier Martinez meets former world title challenger Juan Carlos Burgos in a super featherweight fight scheduled for 10 rounds to open the telecast.

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 (May 14, 2021) — Mikaela Mayer’s first world title defense is coming on a monster card. Mayer, the 2016 U.S. Olympian from Los Angeles, will put her WBO female junior lightweight title on the line against former two-weight world champion Erica Farias on Saturday, June 19 at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas.
 
Mayer-Farias will serve as the co-feature to WBA/IBF bantamweight world champion Naoya “Monster” Inoue’s title defense against mandatory challenger Michael “Hot and Spicy” Dasmarinas.
 
And, in a featherweight battle scheduled for 10 rounds, Adam “BluNose” Lopez will defend his NABF belt against former junior featherweight world champion Isaac “Royal Storm” Dogboe.
 
Inoue-Dasmarinas and Mayer-Farias will be televised live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes (simulcast on ESPN+) at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.  Dogboe-Lopez will be among the bouts streaming exclusively on ESPN+ before the world title doubleheader.
 
Promoted by Top Rank, tickets priced at $200, $100, $75 and $50 go on sale Wednesday, May 19 at 12 p.m. PT, and can be purchased by visiting Etix.com.
 
“Mikaela Mayer is the future of women’s boxing, and I have no doubt she’s going to shine in her first world title defense,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “She wants all of the top names, but she must first get past a tough former world champion in Erica Farias. Lopez-Dogboe is a can’t-miss action fight that will propel the winner to title contention.”
 
Mayer (14-0, 5 KOs) won her world title last October on the Inoue-Jason Moloney card, dethroning longtime champion Ewa Brodnicka via a near-shutout unanimous decision. Since turning pro, Mayer has lost only a handful of rounds, and last July, she became the first female boxer to headline a Top Rank on ESPN card. Farias (26-4, 10 KOs) has held titles at junior welterweight and lightweight and has won 14 world title fights. She most recently lost a pair of junior welterweight title tilts to Jessica McCaskill, who proceeded to dethrone all-time great Cecilia Brækhus for the undisputed welterweight championship.

Mayer said, “I am excited for my first title defense as WBO world champion. Although I had sought a unification bout, Farias is a worthy opponent who will make for an entertaining, action-packed fight. She brings excellent credentials and has only lost to some of best women boxing today. I’m ready and eager to pass another test and showcase the skills that will eventually make me your undisputed champion.”
 
Dogboe (21-2, 15 KOs) won the WBO junior featherweight world title in April 2018 with a dramatic knockout over Jessie Magdaleno, but after one title defense, his momentum was blunted with a pair of defeats to Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete. He returned last July after a 26-month layoff and battered Chris Avalos en route to an eighth-round stoppage. Lopez (15-2, 6 KOs), from Glendale, California, most recently defeated former world champion Jason Sanchez over 10 rounds, his second straight win since his valiant effort — on a day’s notice — against Oscar Valdez in November 2019. Lopez followed up the controversial TKO loss to Valdez with last June’s majority decision over Louie Coria, which many boxing experts ranked among the year’s best battles.
 
Lopez said, “Dogboe is a former world champion who always comes to fight. But I’m a different fighter now, and I know what a win would mean for my career. I’m coming to Las Vegas to steal the show.”
 
About Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
Virgin Hotels Las Vegas is a reimagined and re-conceptualized casino resort. The property is part of the Curio Collection by Hilton. The integrated resort intermixes a passion for food and beverage with music and culture and features three hotel towers totaling over 1,500 Chambers and suites; the 60,000 sq. ft. Mohegan Sun Casino, operated by Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment; a five-acre desert pool oasis including a multi-functional event lawn; live music and entertainment theater with 4,500 capacity; 24 Oxford showroom accommodating 650 guests; an exclusive portfolio of twelve food and beverage venues including Todd English’s Olives, Kris Yenbamroong’s Night + Market, the legendary Nobu, Michael and David Morton’s One Steakhouse, Kassi Beach House from restauranteur Nick Mathers, Casa Calavera by global hospitality company Hakkasan Group, the sports entertainment, daylife and nightlife venue Money, Baby! from Justin Massei and Mikis Troyan of Clive Collective, famous Afters Ice Cream, Pizza Forte by the Ferraro Family and signature Virgin Hotels restaurants and bars including The Kitchen at Commons Club, The Bar at Commons Club, The Shag Room and Funny Library Coffee Shop. The property is owned by JC Hospitality, LLC, in partnership with Juniper Capital Partners, Virgin Group, LiUNA, Fengate Asset Management, Dream and Orlando Development. The off-Strip playground is located at 4455 Paradise Road. For more information, visit www.virginhotelslv.com.
 
About Virgin Hotels
Virgin Hotels is a lifestyle hospitality brand that combines heartfelt service, straightforward value, and a seamless, personalized hotel experience with the track record of innovation and smart disruption that Sir Richard Branson’s global Virgin Group has pioneered for 50 years. Each property intermixes a passion for food and beverage with music and culture, fusing with the local landscape and providing a vibrant and inclusive environment for travelers and locals alike. Virgin Hotels Chicago – named the “#1 Hotel in the United States” in 2016 and “#1 Hotel in Chicago” in 2016, 2017, and 2020 by the Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards – Virgin Hotels Dallas – named the “#16 Hotel in Texas” – Virgin Hotels Nashville and Virgin Hotels Las Vegas are now open. Locations in New York, New Orleans, Miami, Edinburgh and Glasgow to follow. Virgin Hotels continues to explore hotel and office conversions and ground-up development in Boston, Los Angeles, Austin, Seattle, and London.
 
About Curio Collection by Hilton
Curio Collection by Hilton is a global portfolio of nearly 100 one-of-a-kind hotels and resorts. Curio Collection properties offer travelers authentic, curated experiences through distinctly local offerings and elevated amenities, while providing the benefits of Hilton and its award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors. Read the latest brand and hotel stories at newsroom.hilton.com/curio, and connect with Curio Collection on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
 
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 12.1 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). 

Promoter Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing proudly announces he has obtained signed contracts from undefeated super welterweight contenders Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora and Sergio “El Nino” Garcia to face each other.

WBC #5-rated Fundora (17-0-1, 12 KOs) and WBC #2-rated Garcia (33-0, 14 KOs) will meet in an exciting 12-round showdown, to be shown live on Fox TV, date and venue to be announced shortly.

The massive 6? 6? Fundora is a 23-year-old southpaw with an incredible 80-inch reach who has been building a respected name for himself among 154-lb fighters with a string of very impressive performances. The Coachella resident was last seen on May 1, scoring an exciting TKO 4 over Mexican perennial contender Jorge Cota on the Ruiz vs. Arreola PPV event at the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.

The 5? 11½? Garcia is a 28-year-old right-hander from Torrelavega, Cantabria, Spain. In 2019, he captured the European Super Welterweight Championship with a 12-round unanimous decision over England’s then-undefeated Ted Cheeseman and successfully defended it three times. He also captured the WBC International Super Welter Title in 2016 and again in 2017 and made one successful defense. In In his last ring appearance, Garcia stopped France’s Gregory Trenel in six rounds in December of 2020.

“These are the kind of fights the public wants to see,” said Lewkowicz. “Two undefeated top contenders facing each other with their perfect records on the line. I’m so proud to have been able to make this terrific fight and I will announce the date and venue very shortly. I congratulate both fighters for being the kinds of real fighters who will face anyone any time without worrying about their undefeated status. This great fight will be a war.”
About Sampson Boxing

Sampson Boxing has promotional partners all over North and South America, Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe and Central America. Sampson Boxing events have been televised on such premiere networks as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, ESPN+, DAZN, VS., FOX, Fox Sports and several international networks. For more information, visit sampsonboxing.com.

London, UK (14 May 2021) Sam Eggington believes a knockout or stoppage of former World Champion ‘King’ Carlos Molina will send a big statement to the middleweight division that he is ready to challenge for a World title next.

The Birmingham puncher is fired up like never before as he heads into battle with the Mexican hardman, who has never been stopped in 50 fights, on Saturday 22nd May at the Coventry Skydome Arena, exclusively live and free on Channel 5.

With the Vacant WBC Silver Middleweight Championship on the line, Eggington aims to grab the title with both hands to ensure a high ranking in the WBC that will place him in prime position to challenge for a World title.

Iron-fisted Eggington knows that a devastating performance – similar to his six round brutal destruction of Ashley Theophane last December – will send a red warning to the elite 160 pound operators that he is hammering on the door.

It’s been a long-time coming for the British, Commonwealth, European and International Champion in his near decade in the sport, but Eggington can sense that his moment at ultimate glory is near.

The 27-year-old aims to do what former hard-hitting World Champions Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., Mike Alvarado and Cornelius Bundrage couldn’t do and be the first man to stop the granite-chinned warrior from Patzcuaro, Michoacán de Ocampo.

Eggington said, “The plan is to stop him. That’s plan A, I want the stoppage without a doubt. Plan B, I’m trained and ready to go twelve with him if I need to. They are the two eventualities I’m prepared for. With the way I fight I can’t see this going the distance. He comes to fight also and he’ll come straight to me so that will be perfect,”

“I haven’t watched too much of Molina, I leave that to my trainer Jon Pegg and my team, I’ve watched maybe 20 or 30 seconds of him here or there during the camp. I’m not a fan of studying fights intently, I just like to go in and do the business on the night. All I know is that he’s a Mexican, he’s a former World Champion, he’s fought some very good names and he’s got a solid chin, that’s all I need to know to get me fired up and I’ve got to be at my very best,”

“It will be real statement to the other middleweight champions, without a doubt. You don’t get to 50 fights against the level Molina’s been in with and not get stopped for no reason. So I definitely hope to change that. I believe it sends a message to rest of division, but one things for sure it will definitely make me feel better knowing that I was the first. The World title is in my thoughts but the most important thought right now is that I have to beat Molina otherwise it won’t happen. Simple.”

Presented by Hennessy Sports in association with William Hill, Infinitum, Numan, Everlast and King Carlos Promotions, Eggington v Molina will headline the exciting nine-fight card exclusively live and free-to-air across the UK and Ireland on Channel 5.

Main event features Birmingham warrior Sam Eggington (29-7-0, 17 KO’s) against Mexico’s hard-as-nails Carlos Molina (37-11-2, 12 KO’s) for the Vacant WBC Silver Middleweight Championship. Chief support features a cracking showdown between Birmingham’s Kaisee Benjamin (11-1-1, 2 KO’s) and Dumbarton’s Martin Harkin (13-1-0, 5 KO’s) in an Eliminator for the British Welterweight Championship (Subject to BBBofC approval).

Also on the card, Coventry sensation River Wilson-Bent (8-0-0, 4 KO’s) makes the first defence of his Midlands Area Middleweight title against Derby’s George Farrell (5-0-0, 1 KO). Former British Light-Heavyweight Champion Shakan Pitters (14-1-0, 4 KO’s) has his first back against Bradford’s Jermaine Springer (7-2-0, 1 KO) in an eight-rounder since losing his title to Craig Richards last December. County Monaghan super-lightweight dynamo Stephen ‘The Hitman’ McKenna (7-0-0, 7 KO’s) features in a six-rounder, but the undefeated red-hot 24-year-old prospect has not needed to go the distance yet with all his fights ending inside. Birmingham middleweight bombshell Idris ‘The Bodybreaker’ Virgo (9-0-1, 1 KO) goes in over six-rounds. Sevenoaks all-action super-welterweight Michael Hennessy Jr. (5-1-1) is in a six-rounder against Warminster’s Paul Cummings. Irish super-welterweight ace Brett McGinty (1-0) follows up his thrilling pro debut last December when he features in a four-rounder against Islington’s Jordan Grannum. Brighton heavyweight talent Tommy Welch (1-0-0, 1 KO), son of the former British, Commonwealth and World Heavyweight title challenger Scott, follow’s up his explosive debut last December when he stopped Matt Gordon in the second round and features in a four-round contest.

For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports

Tommy McCarthy knows he can’t afford any slip ups when he puts his European Cruiserweight Title on the line for the first time against Romania’s Alexandru Jur tomorrow nightat the AO Arena, Manchester, live on Sky Sports in the UK and on DAZN in the US and more than 200 countries and territories.

Belfast’s McCarthy landed the EBU strap after a hard-fought majority decision victory over Bilal Laggoune on the Oleksandr Usyk vs. Derek Chisora undercard at The SSE Arena, Wembley back in October. 

McCarthy’s stablemate James Tennyson, who also found himself on the verge of World Title action after a run of explosive knockouts, suffered a shock stoppage defeat last time out at the hands of Mexico’s Jovanni Straffon.

‘Mac Attack’ says watching his countryman fall short earlier this month has made him “switch on even more” as he looks to continue his push towards World Title action. 

“I’ve been saying all week I’m expecting a tough test,” said McCarthy. “He’s got all the experience and boxed at the championship level for some time. He looks in good shape, it seems like he’s had a good camp and he seems like he wants to do his talking in the ring so I’m even more nervous.

“I was prepared for a tough fight but when I saw him [Bilal Laggoune] at the weigh-in he looked like he hadn’t trained properly so I kind of switched off a little bit. When it came to fight night, he was ready to go so he pushed me. There are no easy fights when you’re fighting for the European Title, at the time he was number seven in the world. It was a big win for me, a big confidence boost and I’m delighted I came out the winner.

“There’s so much potential for a massive future ahead of me, I need to put all of that in the back of my mind. James Tennyson, we’re from the same place, everything was set up for him to go onto bigger and better things but it didn’t go his way. That’s made me switch on even more, put anything past this out of my mind because this is going to be a tough fight on Saturday, and I can’t afford any slip ups.”

McCarthy vs. Jur is part of a big night of action in Manchester, Joshua Buatsi (13-0, 11 KOs) fights under Virgil Hunter for the first time against unbeaten Frenchman Daniel Blenda Dos Santos (15-0, 8 KOs),three European Title fights feature on the bill with Gamal Yafai (18-1, 10 KOs) defending his Super-Bantamweight Title for the first time against Jason Cunningham (28-6, 6 KOs) and Lerrone Richards (14-0, 3 KOs) taking on Italy’s Giovanni De Carolis (28-9-1, 13 KOs) for the vacant Super-Middleweight strap, Dalton Smith (7-0, 6 KOs) takes on Lee Appleyard (16-5-1, 5 KOs) for the vacant English Super-Lightweight Title, Birmingham Heavyweight Solomon Dacres makes his professional debut and Ellis Hopkins makes history when she becomes the first female from the traveller community to turn professional.