Two-time World Heavyweight Champion Chris Byrd is back in the ring after a prolonged series of health challenges. Following his Hall of Fame worthy career at heavyweight, which included wins over Vitali Klitschko, Evander Holyfield, and David Tua, Byrd (47-5, 22 KOs) suffered from severe neuropathy and chronic pain from fighting far above his natural weight.

“Nobody wanted to fight me at middleweight, so I ate my weight up to heavyweight, And I paid for it. I went through 11 years of suffering. A few years ago, I couldn’t even move my feet apart. The pain in my left leg was so bad that some days I just wanted to cut the whole thing off. I had to make drastic changes and choices in life to get where I am today,” said Byrd. 

Looking chiseled and svelte at 163 pounds, the 50-year-old Byrd’s transformation began nearly three years ago when his daughter was engaged to be married. The idea of being unable to walk her down the aisle pained Byrd, as he was willing to do or try anything that could help improve his condition, and let him be there for the ones he loved. He changed his eating habits – stopped consuming all those things that he was allergic to (wheat, sugar, and dairy) and switched to a plant-based diet.  

A chance meeting with a medicinal cannabis expert proved particularly fruitful in Byrd’s road to recovery. Byrd began a therapeutic regimen of juicing fresh cannabis leaves and utilizing CBD oil and topicals. He consumed ample hemp hearts as a complete source of protein and essential fatty acids. In short order, the ferocious pain he had felt in his left leg and the fatigue that he had battled his entire career began to subside.

By early 2020, Chris had reached a plateau in his recovery “at about ? of where [he is] today.” He then discovered Aaron Cameron, Director of Club Q360, in Malibu, California. Cameron is widely known as the husband of film star and “Real Housewife of Beverly Hills”, Denise Richards. Under Cameron’s guidance, Chris began undergoing radio and sound frequency treatments to treat his neuropathy. According to Byrd, these treatments took his healing to a level – relieving his pain and greatly increasing his mobility.

“Aaron is a fantastic person, unique with a great mind who is an expert in radio and sound frequency work. Doctor’s had told me I would need my shoulders and hip replaced. After my treatments with Aaron, all of that changed. Aaron really wants to see people get healed and he really cares for the people he works with.”

“Chris’ recovery has been nothing short of miraculous,” said Split-T Boxing’s David McWater. “To see where Chris was only a few years ago to where he is now is remarkable. It’s an honor to be able to help him on this path.”

Considering all that he has accomplished in both his professional career and in his dramatic post-career transformation from struggling heavyweight to vibrant and virile middleweight, there is nothing that can stop Chris Byrd.

“I really want to show people that it’s never too late to accomplish your goals, and live out your dreams. My reflexes are razor sharp, my strength is phenomenal, and I’m more focused than I’ve been. I feel I’m ready to make a return to the ring, and with the help and guidance of Split-T Boxing, I hope to make it a reality.

Chris Billam-Smith will take on Deion Jumah for the vacant British Cruiserweight Title on the undercard of Alexander Povetkin’s huge rematch with Dillian Whyte on Saturday November 21, shown live on Sky Sports Box Office. 

Commonwealth Champion Billam-Smith (11-1, 10 KOs) retained his belt in emphatic style last time out at Matchroom Fight Camp in August, using his superior size and strength to blast out Cardiff’s Nathan Thorley in two dominant rounds. 

‘The Gentleman’, trained by Shane McGuigan in Kent, is seeking domestic dominance by avenging a loss he suffered to Jumah in the amateurs before turning his attention to a shot at European honours as he continues to impress with powerful performances. 

English Champion Jumah (13-0, 7 KOs) is undefeated in thirteen fights, winning the Southern Area Title with a fifth round stoppage of Ossie Jervier at York Hall in 2018 before taking out Wadi Camacho in five to secure the English crown in 2019.

‘The Ghost’, a 6′ 1″ southpaw from Chelsea, kicked off 2020 in style as he outpointed Sam Hyde over 12 compelling rounds to retain his English Title, and secure a shot at the famous Lord Lonsdale Challenge Belt previously owned by Richard Riakporhe.

“I think it’s a great fight,” said Bilam-Smith. “Me and Dion have shared the ring together in the amateurs and we have sparred as professionals. I think our styles gel really nicely. We both come to fight and we are both always fit. We’re two big punchers so it’s a brilliant fight and one that I’m really excited about.

“He beat me in the amateurs so I’m looking forward to getting me revenge. The British Title is such a prestigious belt and it is a dream for any British fighter to fight for it. I’m absolutely buzzing to add that belt to my Commonwealth. I will become the British Champion on November 21.”

“We have waited too long for an opportunity like this but timing is everything and I’m glad this fight got made when it did,” said Jumah. “Chris Billam-Smith is the perfect opponent for this stage in my career. On November 21 I will be walking away with BOTH the British and Commonwealth Titles. The Ghost Is Coming!”

Billam-Smith vs. Jumah lands on a huge night of action that sees Alexander Povetkin (36-2-1, 25 KOs) rematch Dillian Whyte (27-2, 18 KOs) in a must-win contest for the Londoner and Conor Benn (16-0, 11 KOs) take a huge step up against Germany’s Sebastian Formella (22-1, 10 KOs).

Los Angeles – October 14, 2020 – Ring City USA, a new boxing broadcast and content platform, announced today its first main event and co-feature for November 19, 2020. The inaugural event kicks off a broader, long-term rights deal between NBC Sports Group and Ring City that will feature live boxing events on Thursday nights on NBCSN through 2021.

“We are excited to bring boxing back to NBC Sports,” said Frank Samuel, CEO of Ring City USA.  “This partnership will deliver exciting, highly competitive fights and become a day-in, day-out source of top-notch, unbiased content for fight fans around the world.”

Ring City’s first main and co-main events feature a roundup of impressive young boxing talent squaring up against formidable opponents. Nov. 19 is headlined by resilient super featherweight contender O’Shaquie Foster (17-2, 10 KO’s) and the indomitable Miguel Roman (62-13, 47 KO’s) who will clash in a 10-round showdown. In the co-feature, undefeated lightweight prospect William Zepeda (21-0, 19 KO’s) challenges the skilled Roberto Ramirez (23-2-1, 16 KO’s) in a 10-round contest.  

The fights will take place at Freddie Roach’s legendary Wild Card Boxing Club in Los Angeles. 

“Wild Card is the heart and soul of West Coast boxing,” said Head of Boxing Evan Rutkowski. “Some of the sport’s greatest talent trained and developed there under Freddie’s guidance. As a developmental platform, we couldn’t think of a more perfect place for us to launch Ring City.”

Fighting out of Houston, where he trains under vaunted trainer Bobby Benton and is a stablemate of two-division super lightweight champion Regis Prograis, Foster returns to the ring off of seven straight wins, highlighted by his impressive upset of the previously-unbeaten Jon Fernandez in September 2018. Most recently the increasingly confident Foster headlined “Broadway Boxing,” where he walked away with a unanimous-decision victory against Alberto Mercado. Before turning pro, Foster was an alternate for the 2012 U.S. Olympic Boxing Team and a two-time Junior National Golden Gloves Champion.

“I am so excited to return to the ring and show everyone that I’m the best at 130,” said Foster, who is promoted by DiBella Entertainment. “I’ve sparred with the top guys in this weight class and put in a lot of work over the last year. I’m excited to showcase my talent as the main event on a new series.”

Boxing veteran and three-time world title challenger Roman returns to the ring a little over a year after decisioning former world champion Tomas Rojas. In recent years Roman, who is promoted by Del Pueblo Promotions, has proved gritty in the ring while going toe-to-toe with some of the sport’s best, highlighted by a heroic defeat of Orlando Salido in a thrilling slugfest that was a 2017 Fight Of The Year contender. Known for the valiance and heart he displays in the ring, the 34-year-old Roman challenged Miguel Berchelt for the WBC Super Featherweight title in November 2018, where he was edged in a relentless battle.

“I’m very excited to be back in the ring and guarantee it will be a war that I won’t lose,” said Roman. “There’s no way to beat me when I’m hungrier than ever and training like never before.”

Zepeda returns to the ring after knocking out all but two of his previous opponents. Nov. 19 marks his first professional fight in the U.S. Ramirez, unbeaten in his past 10 fights, is known for his 2018 upset win against former WBC titleholder Dejan Zlaticanin.

Ring City USA will work in conjunction with a variety of promoters including DiBella Entertainment, Del Pueblo Promotions, Golden Boy Promotions and Global Boxing Stars. Local promoters/site coordinators Peter Rasmussen and Steve Bash will oversee the organization of the bouts on behalf of Ring City.

About Ring City USA

Ring City is boxing’s newest sports media platform. Working in tandem with a variety of promoters and talent, its new boxing series places an emphasis on competitive matchups that genuinely test the fighters and excite the fight fans. Ring City provides great fights in the ring and compelling shoulder programming outside of the ring. Ring City is the proving ground where up-and-coming talent can earn their stripes and launch themselves into the upper echelon of boxing stardom. 

Demetrius Andrade will face Dusty Harrison over ten rounds at Super-Middleweight on Friday November 27 from Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida, live on DAZN
 
WBO World Middleweight champion Andrade (29-0 18 KOs) is in action following the third successful defense of his belt in January with a ninth round stoppage win over Luke Keeler in Miami.
 
The Rhode Island star returns to the Sunshine State for the second time in 2020, and while the 32 year old intends to defend his crown in early 2021, Andrade is testing the waters for a move up to 168lbs in the future where he would be gunning to become a three-weight World champion.
 
‘Boo Boo’ has his eyes set on his fellow champions at Middleweight, his mandatory challenger Liam Williams and the kings up at 168lbs, but the 32 year old boogeyman of the division is keen to remain active and look to his future plans while waiting for those big nights.
 
“It’s me again,” said Andrade. “I thought long and hard about this and at the end of the day, this is another opportunity for me to go out there, get another win, look spectacular doing it, and testing what my body feels like at 168 pounds. I am fighting a young, undefeated guy, who was a good amateur and has been waiting for his moment. This is his moment, fighting me. I need to make sure I’m ready because he’s hungry and beating me changes his life. 
 
“Is this the big fight I wanted, or have been chasing? No. But what am I supposed to do? Sit here and keep waiting for someone to answer the phone or accept one of Eddie’s offers? I’m in the prime of my career and I want to stay busy and fight as much as possible. With everything going on with COVID, you don’t know what’s going to happen. I have the opportunity to fight now, and I’m taking it. My job is to go out there, take care of business on November 27 and then 2021, it’s time for one of these big names to step up to the plate. You can’t duck me forever. Let’s give the fans what they want and deserve to see.”
 
Harrison (34-0-1 20 KOs) is an undefeated contender at 168lbs and ready to rip up Andrade’s script. Harrison’s earlier pro success featured at Welterweight back in 2016 before personal issues led him to walk away from the sport, but now the 26 year old former amateur star is on a new path with four stoppage wins around Super-Middleweight and he’s ready to shine on the biggest night of his career.
 
“This is the opportunity I have been waiting for my entire life,” said Harrison. “This is why I started boxing. All of the time I have dedicated to this sport, I finally get my opportunity to show the world who I am and what I am capable of on November 27. Demetrius talks a big game, and says he is the boogeyman of the division, but who has he fought? Then he goes out, fights whoever it is, runs around the ring, picks up a win and goes back to running his mouth. He says that he is one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world, then ok, so be it, on November 27 I take his spot. I know that people are going to doubt me going into this fight, and that is fine. That fuels my energy. Keep doubting me. Andrade doesn’t know what he got himself into. He better be ready when we step into that ring because I coming for him.”
 
“This is a vital night for Demetrius to both stay active and see how he feels up at Super-Middleweight,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “Demetrius is after those massive fights at both 160lbs and 168lbs and 2021 promises to be a huge year for him, but he cannot take Dusty lightly, as those big plans go out of the window on a night where Harrison can take his career to new heights.”
 
Andrade’s clash with Harrison is part of a huge night of action in Florida, topped by Daniel Jacobs’ grudge match with Gabriel Rosado at Super-Middleweight.
 
Marc Castro will make his pro debut on the undercard of Daniel Jacobs’ (36-3, 30 KOs) grudge match with Gabriel Rosado (25-12-1, 14 KOs). The Fresno talent was slated to make his bow in the paid ranks in Tulsa, Oklahoma in August, but he tested positive for COVID-19. Now the amateur sensation finally laces them up and is joined on the undercard by fellow amateur rulers in Olympic gold medalist Daniyar Yeleussinov (9-0, 5 KOs) faces former unified World champion Julius Indongo (23-2 12 KOs) for the IBF Intercontinental Welterweight title, three-time World amateur champion Magomedrasul Majidov (2-0, 2 KOs), and young talents Nikita Ababiy (9-0, 6 KOs) and Alexis Espino (6-0, 4 KOs).

QUEENSBERRY Poland have announced details for their inaugural show, which will be broadcast in Poland on Polsat – one of the biggest TV networks in the country.

The nascent company leaps into action next month with the first show taking place on Saturday November 21 in medieval Gniew Castle. 

Queensberry Poland, which was co-founded by Francis Warren and leading Polish fight figure Mariusz Krawczynski, is a further expansion of the Queensberry Promotions brand.

Warren and Krawczynski have been busy signing up some of the best young talent in Polish boxing including four-times national champion Ryszard Lewicki, Michal Soczynski and unbeaten Pawel Augustynik (11-0, 5 KOs).

Augustynik who had been campaigning in Britain headlines the November show in a ten-round Light-Heavyweight clash against his countryman Darek Sek (28-6-3, 10 KOs).

Super-Welterweight Lewicki faces Piotr Brzoska (2-3-1, 1KO) on his debut and Cruiserweight Soczynski has his first paid bout against Mical Czykiel (2-1, 2 KOs).

An excited Francis Warren said: “This is a fantastic development for the whole of Queensberry and we are proud to be associated with Polsat for this first show, with a view to signing a long term deal very soon. We share the same vision for Polish boxing and believe we can turn Polish boxing into a global powerhouse over the coming years.

“Our first show on November 21 will be a celebration of Polish boxing, and the card will show just how strong Polish boxing will become under the Queensberry banner.

“We will champion Polish boxing. The shows will also give Polish boxing fans a look at some of the fine international talent on the Queensberry roster.

“Historically Queensberry’s track record of bringing through young boxers is second to none and our Polish signings will take the sport in their country to an all-time high.

His business partner Krawczynski added: “I am so excited about this venture with Francis Warren.

“Polish boxing needs strong people who will take care of it. I know, that with Frank and Francis we will do big things.

“Polsat is a strong partner and like the Queensberry Poland team they are people who care for boxing.

“For young Polish boxers I believe we can give them so much more than any other promoter in Poland.”

Also on the first bill Rafal Jackiewicz (51-27-3, 22 KOs) faces Bartlomiej Grafka (22-38-4, 10 KOs) in a six round Middleweight rematch following their draw last month.

Other new Queensberry Poland signings Super-Bantamweight Abdulkhay Sharakmatov and Light-Heavyweight Karol Dlugosz will both be making their professional debuts over four rounds.

Uzbekistan’s Sharakmatov’s opponent is to be confirmed and Dlugosz who made his name as an amateur in Ireland tackles Krzysztof Stawiarski (2-3 2 KOs).

Queensberry Poland has also signed Heavyweight prospect Kamil Mroczkowski, who has been one of the star performers in Polish amateur boxing in recent years.

Lewis Ritson – Forest Hall, England – 20-1, 12 KOs – fighting Miguel Vazquez for the WBA Intercontinental Super-Lightweight Title:

“We need to get past Vazquez, he’s our main focus. We’re not looking past Saturday. If we can get past him, and we’re confident that we can, then we’ll start looking at those other big names. I think I’ll put an even better performance on behind closed doors with no pressure on my shoulders. When I first saw him at the first press conference, I thought he looked massive. Now he looks quite skinny, quite frail, to be fair, but we’ll see on Saturday night what he comes to bring. We know that we’ll bring our A-game.

Asked if he is nearing world class, Ritson said: “Very close. Sparring is sparring, it’s totally different when you get in there and fight, so you can’t really take much off sparring, but if you did off the sparring, we’d be very happy with where we are and where we can end up. Get past this, hopefully the lockdown eases down, and we’ll get back to Newcastle and in front of a packed crowd and some big fights to come.”

Miguel Vazquez – Guadalajara, Mexico – 42-9, 16 KOs – fighting Lewis Ritson for the WBA Intercontinental Super-Lightweight Title:

“We have been training for this fight for a long long time. Obviously it got delayed, but we have been ready for this fight for a long time and I’m up against a really tough fighter in Lewis Ritson. It is a great opportunity for me. It is a really big fight for me and it’s not going to be an easy one at all which is why I have been preparing as hard as I possibly can for this. When people watch the fight they can expect to see a Miguel Vazquez that is prepared to go on to become a World Champion again. I’m ready to win. All the fights that I’ve had have enabled me to get to where I am now. It was a great experience fighting against Canelo. But all of the people I’ve faced during my period as World Champion as well were important for my career.”

Qais Ashfaq – Leeds, England – 8-0, 3 KOs – fighting Marc Leach in a Final Eliminator for the British Super-Bantamweight Title:

“It has been amazing. I feel like I’m coming on leaps and bounds with Angel Fernandez and the team in Loughborough. I’m looking forward to showing what I’m about on Saturday night. Get this fight out of the way on Saturday and get a good stylish win, and then move on and win that British Title. I’m part of a fresh new team, coaching as well as management. I believe it has freshened me up in many ways and I’m learning things that are going to show on Saturday. I look forward to showing the improvements. The management team will drive me in the right direction. I’m learning a lot in the gym now. My improvements in the gym have been huge. The facilities at Loughborough University are unbelievable, we have everything that we need.”

Marc Leach – Salford, England – 14-1-1, 3 KOs – fighting Qais Ashfaq in a Final Eliminator for the British Super-Bantamweight Title:

“We’ve sparred each other over the years so we know a bit about each other. I’m just going to take every round as it comes and perform to the best I can. I feel a bit stronger. As everyone knows, the last two or three pounds is the hardest to make. I haven’t had to do that this time so I’m feeling fit and strong. I can’t wait now. Jamie is my coach and he had the British Title. I’m bringing it back to Salford where it belongs. My weight or the weight above, I just need the opportunity to fight on shows like these. Thanks to Qais and everyone else for accepting it. It’s going to be a bit cagey as we know each other so well but I think I’ll win on points.”

Joe Laws – Benwell, England – 9-0, 5 KOs – fighting Rylan Charlton in a six round Super-Lightweight contest:

“I’m going to knock him out, flatten him. I’m a product of where I come from. But sometimes, at the weekends, it can be too comfortable to nip out and see my friends. I’m at a stage of my career where the fights will start getting harder. Lanzarote takes me out of my comfort zone.

“I’m a passionate kid. If I box, fight or play scrabble I am a passionate kid. I’m going to flatten him. I’m throwing with intent to hurt. He’s training to knock me out, know what I mean? Once I get in the ring, it’s personal. Come Saturday I will show no respect whatsoever.”

Rylan Charlton – Norwich, England – 5-0-1, 2 KOs – fighting Joe Laws in a six round Super-Lightweight contest

“He’s good at doing the talking, I’m good at doing the beating up. There isn’t much pressure on me. Joe is used to having a crowd behind him and there won’t be a crowd. All the pressure is on Joe! I’m going in there to do a job and this the opportunity I’ve been waiting for.”

Thomas Patrick Ward – West Rainton, England – 29-0, 4 KOs – fighting Thomas Essomba in a ten round Super-Bantamweight contest: 

“I’m ready to go. Obviously there was a change of opponent but our training regime doesn’t change at all. It doesn’t matter who we’re fighting, we train hard, give 100% and remain ready and focused. I’m ready to go on Saturday night. Every fight has to be won. It doesn’t matter what the calibre of the opponent is. I was supposed to fight Garcia who is ranked in the WBO. That would have pushed me on to get a World Title shot. We’re still pushing for them World Titles. I believe I’m ready to fight any of those World Champions. I believe I’ll beat any of them. I’m ready to take on the full division but we’ve got a fight on our hands on Saturday night.”

Thomas Essomba – Wolverhampton, England – 10-6, 4 KOs – fighting Thomas Patrick Ward in a ten round Super-Bantamweight contest: 

“First of all I want to say thank you for the opportunity. I fought as recently as August. I think that will help me in this fight. I didn’t expect to fight this soon after that. The notice they gave me was very short but I believe the camp I had for my last fight is going to help me for this fight. I will find the solution to win. Every fight is important for me. The opportunity to fight Tommy is a big one for me.”

Ellie Scotney – Catford, England – making her professional debut in a six round Super-Bantamweight contest with Bec Connolly:

“I’m just grateful to be given this opportunity in the circumstances. To be around those people in the gym, I’m learning outside of boxing. I’m trying to be a sponge to everything in that gym and I’m thankful to be there. In hindsight it seemed like a tough decision turning pro but I’ve never looked back once. My character and my boxing, it just wasn’t settling well there and I just didn’t love boxing like I use to. As soon as I made the decision to turn pro I fell in love with it again. I’m getting my journey started. As soon as I box on Saturday I’d like to be out again the next week! It’s a great time to be involved in women’s boxing. As soon as I get started I want to keep going.”

Bec Connolly – Swindon, England – 3-7 – fighting Ellie Scotney in a six round Super-Bantamweight contest:

“It’s quite exciting isn’t it. I didn’t think with all of this COVID stuff this year that I’d get to box at all. It’s a massive change on the management side of things, I’d been with Paddy for the best part of ten years. I’m with Mike in Malmesbury now with new management as well in Al Siesta. I can’t see small hall boxing coming back for a long time with this COVID stuff so it’s time to do the big shows. Experience is only good if you use it, and I plan on using it on Saturday. She’s not your typical debutant and I think people in boxing know that already. Ellie has got a lot of accolades behind her. Inactivity as a boxer is a killer. You want to be busy and you want to be out there. This is a great platform to be on and I’m just really grateful that it’s happening.”

NEW YORK – October 15, 2020 – Former world champion Sergey Lipinets will now face unbeaten Custio Clayton for the Interim IBF Welterweight Title headlining action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, October 24 from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Kudratillo Abdukakhorov, who was originally scheduled to face Lipinets, was forced to withdraw because of visa issues.

The SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see undefeated contender Xavier Martínez battle hard-hitting Claudio “The Matrix” Marrero in a 12-round WBA Super Featherweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. Rising super lightweight Malik “Iceman” Hawkins will duel knockout artist Subriel Matías in a 10-round showdown to kick off the televised action.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions, Lee Baxter Promotions and Mayweather Promotions.

“Custio Clayton is an outstanding replacement opponent given the late change and should provide a stiff test against Sergey Lipinets on October 24,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Clayton was already deep into training and will bring a wealth of experience, from his amateur days through his impressive pro career, into this showdown with Lipinets. This is a great opportunity for Clayton to announce himself as a welterweight contender against one of the division’s most dangerous fighters.”

“I’m very happy to have this opportunity,” said Clayton. “This is exactly the type of fight me and my team have been asking for. My preparation has been very good. This might seem like it’s last-minute, but I am more than ready for whatever Lipinets brings on October 24.”

The 31-year-old Lipinets (16-1, 12 KOs) will look to remain unbeaten since moving up to welterweight in 2018 and position himself for further title opportunities in the welterweight division. Born in Kazakhstan and representing Russia, Lipinets now lives in Woodland Hills, Calif. and is trained by renowned coach Joe Goossen. Lipinets has put together three straight victories since losing his 140-pound title to four-division champion Mikey Garcia in March 2018. Lipinets scored two victories in 2019, including a stoppage of two-division champion Lamont Peterson in one of the year’s most exciting fights.

A 2012 Canadian Olympian, Clayton (18-0, 12 KOs) fights out of Montreal, Quebec, Canada and will make his U.S. debut on October 24. The 33-year-old is unbeaten since turning pro in 2014 and most recently scored a knockout victory over Diego Ramirez in January. Clayton owns 2019 triumphs over former champion DeMarcus Corley and Johan Perez, in addition to a 12-round decision win over then unbeaten Stephen Danyo in 2018.

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

Worth the wait. That is the feeling of Ellie Scotney as she prepares to trade leather for the first time as a professional this weekend.

The 22-year-old had been scheduled to make her highly-anticipated professional debut on the undercard of the David Avanesyan-Josh Kelly European Title showdown at The O2 at the end of March.

Lockdown got in the exciting Londoner’s way but almost seven months on, her first contest is finally here as she faces Swindon’s Bec Connolly over six rounds in Peterborough, live on Sky Sports and DAZN.

“I’m just looking to get in there, I’m buzzing,” said Scotney. “It’s second time lucky after the first one got called off, I’m just grateful for the opportunity given the world we’re in at the moment.”

A smile is never far away from the bubbly Adam Booth-managed Featherweight who hopes to impose her thrilling style on the pro game.

“I like to do a bit of both, but I do like to get involved! I hope I don’t disappoint the fans, I do like to fight but hope I can be smart with it. I had 40 fights as an amateur and boxed all over the world.

“But pro boxing is a different game and I feel my style and my character is going to suit that, I just can’t wait to get in there. A career is short-lived so I’m going into it to enjoy every minute of it and make the most of everything.”

A highly-accomplished amateur, Scotney was tipped for an Olympic place in Tokyo but instead signed a long-term promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing.

Standing in her way at the East of England Arena is the experienced Connolly (3-7), who has fought a number of top girls including Terri Harper, Natasha Jonas and Rachel Ball. So what is Ellie expecting?

“I’m ready for a top Beccs turning up, I wouldn’t expect anything less,” she said. “I’m well prepared and ready to get down to work. Two weeks ago I handed in my resignation at B&Q, I think they were happy to receive it. This is the next chapter.”

Scotney vs. Connolly is part of a huge night of boxing at the East of England Arena in Peterborough, Geordie favourite Lewis Ritson (20-1, 12 KOs) takes on former long-reigning World Champion Miguel Vazquez (42-9, 16 KOs), 2016 Rio Olympian Qais Ashfaq (8-0, 3 KOs) meets Salford’s Marc Leach (14-1-1, 3 KOs) in a Final Eliminator for the British Super-Bantamweight Title, Joe ‘Benwell Bomber’ Laws (9-0, 5 KOs) takes on Norwich’s Rylan Charlton (5-0-1, 2 KOs) over six rounds at Super-Lightweight and West Rainton’s Thomas Patrick Ward (29-0, 4 KOs) fights Thomas Essomba (10-6, 4 KOs) over ten rounds at Super-Bantamweight.

Salford’s Marc Leach believes his best will be enough to outmanoeuvre Qais Ashfaq when the pair meet in a Final Eliminator for the British Super-Bantamweight Title this Saturday October 17, live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US.

After losing his professional debut back in 2014, ‘Livewire’ has remained unbeaten, winning 14 and drawing one of his contests since. The 26-year-old, who trains with Jamie Moore at the V.I.P Gym in Astley, jumped at the opportunity to take on his former sparring partner Ashfaq and plans to ‘shine’ on the big stage.

“I was supposed to fight in March but it was cancelled two days before because of the pandemic”, said Leach. “It was a bit of a setback, but it’s been a good turnaround for this fight and now is my time to shine.

“You can’t really take too much from sparring. It has been over a year since we sparred and he’s progressed his way, I’ve progressed my way. He may have learnt a few new tricks and skills but it’s all about who executes the game-plan right on the night. 

“I believe it’s going to be a chess match for the first half of the fight because we’ve both got similar styles. I believe I have the speed to win, he’ll have the power, but I’m used to sparring people bigger and heavier than me. I feel stronger at this weight and can’t wait to perform.

Former amateur standout Ashfaq heads into this weekend’s showdown in Peterborough as the favourite with the bookies, but English Bantamweight Champion Leach is relishing his underdog tag and is promising to deliver a career-best performance under the lights. 

“Being the underdog to me means you have nothing to lose and everything to gain. This is on his show and he has all the hype around him. The pressure is on him to perform and I do believe if I perform my best, I will win this fight. 

“I’ve got to start sharp and fast and keep that pace up throughout the fight. I believe I will win comfortably and confidently and I will get him out of his rhythm early to get the victory.”

Ashfaq vs. Leach is part of a huge night of boxing at the East of England Arena in Peterborough, Geordie favourite Lewis Ritson (20-1, 12 KOs) takes on former long-reigning World Champion Miguel Vazquez (42-9, 16 KOs), Joe ‘Benwell Bomber’ Laws (9-0, 5 KOs) takes on Norwich’s Rylan Charlton (5-0-1, 2 KOs) over six rounds at Super-Lightweight, West Rainton’s Thomas Patrick Ward (29-0, 4 KOs) fights Thomas Essomba (10-6, 4 KOs) over ten rounds at Super-Bantamweight and Catford’s Ellie Scotney makes her professional debut against Bec Connolly (3-7) at Featherweight.

(October 14, 2020) — Two-plus years of bad blood ignited Wednesday evening when WBC Franchise/WBO/WBA lightweight world champion Vasiliy Lomachenko and IBF kingpin Teofimo Lopez shared the stage for Wednesday’s press conference in advance of Saturday’s super fight (ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+, 7:30 p.m. ET). 

Lomachenko and Lopez had not been in the same room since last Dec.14, the night Lopez knocked out Richard Commey to win his world title. Shortly after that sensational knockout, Lomachenko entered the ring and welcomed Lopez to his club.

The lightweight champions sat 12 feet apart on a stage inside the ring. The tension never boiled over, but it was palpable. This is what they had to say.

Vasiliy Lomachenko

“I won’t know {how the layoff will impact me} until Saturday night. I have never been out of the ring for one full year like this. Ever. I don’t know how it will be.”

“I think it’s just a ring and judges and TV. That’s it. And, of course, four belts.”

“I’m thinking only about my future fight and the fight on Saturday. That’s it.”
 
“For me, I think it will be a chess match.”

Teofimo Lopez“Hard work pays off. Eighteen years in, and it’s just the beginning, You haven’t seen anything yet.”

“The Takeover is not just a phrase we throw out there. This is the part where I’m leading the new generation. Winning this is a stamp and a mark to put on for the new era.”

“Get your popcorn ready and just enjoy the show. It’s ‘The Takeover.'”

“A true champion can adapt to everything. It goes for both of us. He fought in arenas sold out. I fought in arenas sold out. My job and my thing are having all of these belts wrapped around me.”

Schedule of Live Lomachenko vs. Lopez content on ESPN Platforms (HERE for full schedule for Lomachenko vs. Lopez)

Main Card, Undercards and Early Undercards (All times ET)

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LOS ANGELES (October 14, 2020) – Undefeated middleweights Amilcar Vidal and Edward “The Hunter” Ortiz will square-off in a 10-round showdown that headlines FS1 PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, November 14 from Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.

FS1 PBC Fight Night begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will see unbeaten Nigerian cruiserweight Efetobor Apochi dueling Joe Jones in the 10-round co-main event. In a special feature on the telecast, unbeaten featherweight prospects meet as Henry “World Star” Arredondo and Eros Correa battle in an eight-round attraction.

The event will be promoted by TGB Promotions and will take place without fans in attendance at the Microsoft Theater, an AEG venue, in downtown Los Angeles.

“Unbeaten middleweights Amilcar Vidal and Edward Ortiz will look to announce themselves as contenders in the middleweight division they meet on FS1 Saturday, November 14,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Hard-hitting cruiserweight Efetobor Apochi is fast approaching the cruiserweight elite and will look to keep his knockout percentage perfect against the tough Joe Jones. Adding in a matchup between undefeated featherweight prospects Henry Arredondo and Eros Correa just makes this an even more electric night for the fans.”

Born in Montevideo, Uruguay, Vidal (11-0, 10 KOs) now fights out of Coachella, California as he prepares to fight in the U.S. for the second time on November 14. The 24-year-old’s previous stateside fight came last November, when he stopped then unbeaten Zach Prieto in round one. Vidal followed that up in January of this year, with another first round stoppage of a previously undefeated fighter, as he dropped Leopoldo Reyna twice to earn the victory.

The 28-year-old Ortiz (11-0-2, 4 KOs) won three times during 2019, including a triumph over Alexis Camacho in November to cap off the year. A native of San Antonio, Texas, Ortiz returned to action in August, beating Antonio Todd by decision. Fighting professionally since April 2016, Ortiz fought to two draws in his first five bouts and has emerged victorious every time he’s entered the ring since July 2017.

A native of Nigeria who now trains with renowned coach Ronnie Shields in Texas, Apochi (9-0, 9 KOs) has knocked out all of his opponents since turning pro in 2016. The 32-year-old added three stoppages to his tally in 2019, including an impressive knockout over tough prospect Earl Newman in May. Most recently he defeated Larry Pryor last October via a TKO in the fourth round.

Jones (11-2, 8 KOs) will step into the ring for the first time in 2020 after two wins in 2019, including a triumph over then unbeaten Montez Brown, and a decision loss to undefeated Richard Rivera in December. The 25-year-old fights out of Leesburg, Virginia, and has competed professionally since 2013.

The 24-year-old Arredondo (7-0, 4 KOs) will step up in competition on November 14 when he takes on a fellow unbeaten in Correa. The San Antonio, Texas native added five victories to his tally in 2019, improving his pro record after turning pro in 2017. Arredondo enters this fight with knockout wins in his last three outings.

Correa (9-0, 7 KOs) turned pro in 2017 after an extensive amateur career and stopped his first six opponents inside of the distance. The 27-year-old trains out of his native San Jose, California as he prepares for his toughest pro test to date in Arredondo. Correa most recently scored a knockout victory over Saul Alberto Garcia in January.

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Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

LOS ANGELES (October 14, 2020) – Undefeated rising welterweight and 2016 Lithuanian Olympian Eimantas Stanionis will battle Justin DeLoach in the 10-round main event of FS1 PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Wednesday, November 4 from Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.

The telecast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features undefeated super welterweight Chordale Booker taking on hard-hitting Skender Halili in the eight-round co-main event.

The event will be promoted by TGB Promotions and will take place without fans in attendance at the Microsoft Theater, an AEG venue, in downtown Los Angeles.

“This is set up to be another great night of evenly-matched action fights live on FS1 and FOX Deportes,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Eimantas Stanionis is one of the elite rising welterweights in the sport, and he will get a chance to prove it against a surging Justin DeLoach, who scored an explosive victory against another unbeaten prospect in August. The highly-skilled Chordale Booker will also have an opportunity to continue his rise up the rankings, when he takes on the powerful Skender Halili in the co-main event.”

A native of Lithuania who now lives and trains in the U.S., Stanionis (10-0, 7 KOs) is one of the most promising fighters to come out of the 2016 Olympic games and has continued to impress in the pro ranks. The 26-year-old will step up again in competition for the first time since a hand injury in May 2019 when he goes against DeLoach. Stanionis picked up three victories in 2019, beating Samuel Figueroa in March, before showing he had recovered from the hand injury by stopping Julio Cesar Sanchez and Evincii Dixon.

DeLoach (19-4, 10 KOs) bounced back from a 2019 loss to then unbeaten Terrel Williams in August by knocking out then undefeated Livan Navarro in the first round on FS1. The 26-year-old put together an impressive run in 2017, defeating three-straight unbeaten fighters in Dillon Cook, Junior Castillo and Domonique Dolton, before knocking out Christopher Pearson in 2017. The Augusta, Georgia native suffered defeats against former unified champion Jeison Rosario in 2018 and Nathaniel Gallimore in 2017, before rebounding to beat Michael Ogundo in November 2018.

The 29-year-old Booker (15-0, 7 KOs) scored the most impressive victory of his career in his previous bout, dominating tough veteran contender Wale Omotoso in FS1 action on his way to a unanimous decision. The Stamford, Connecticut native is unbeaten since turning pro in 2016 following a strong amateur career. He also owns victories over then unbeaten Malcolm McCallister and then once-beaten VeShawn Owens.

Born in Klina, Kosovo, Halili (16-2, 13 KOs) grew up in and fights out of the Bronx as he returns to the ring for the first time since a 2018 triumph over previously unbeaten Jamie Walker. The 30-year-old won 13 of his first 14 pro fights, with all of his victories coming stoppage. He has won three of his last four contests heading into his ring return November 4.

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Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

Unfortunately Savannah Marshall’s trainer Peter Fury has tested positive for COVID-19.

Saturday’s WBO World Middleweight Title fight is off the card.

All other fighters and teams tested negative. 

The fight will be rescheduled in due course and our best wishes are with Peter. 

After winning Silver at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and representing Team GB at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio, Qais Ashfaq has made a perfect start to life in the paid ranks, and the 258-managed talent is itching to push on for more titles. 

Currently 8-0, Leeds southpaw Ashfaq claimed his first professional Title last November, outscoring Joe Ham on a technical decision to become WBA Continental Super-Bantamweight Champion in Manchester, and has since switched things up behind the scenes as he begins what he calls ‘the next chapter of his career’.

“I just felt like I needed a bit of a change,” said Ashfaq. “Me and Angel Fernandez had some friendly chat on social media and it was natural process. We got on straight away from that first session and I feel like he’s the perfect coach for me and what I need.

“Because of lockdown there was a lot of work over the phone to start with but once we got going face to face it was a lot easier after a slow start. Training in Loughborough is great for me being from Leeds, the facilities are unbelievable!”

The toughest test of Ashfaq’s career so far comes in the shape of friend and former sparring partner Marc Leach this Saturday, live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US. The skilful ‘Livewire’ who remains unbeaten since losing his professional debut back in 2014, has since gone fifteen without loss.

“When the fight was put to us it was strange but we never shy away,” added Ashfaq. “Maybe they expect the same Qais they saw in sparring but sparring is different to fighting. Hopefully I will go out there and put on a great performance and win convincingly. 

“When me and Marc get in the ring we won’t be friends but we will be shaking hands before and after. Once that bell rings, we’re enemies. I’ve been taking fights that were offered but it’s about time I get an opportunity like this. After I get this win I’m looking to push on towards that British Title.

“We have had a change in the whole set up, it wasn’t just coaching it was management as well. 258 are a great company to be working with and it’s exciting to see where the future goes. This is Ashfaq 2.0, the next level to my career and God willing it’s a very successful partnership. Im hoping to show what I’ve been learning with Angel and win well on Saturday.”

Ashfaq vs. Leach is part of a huge night of boxing at the East of England Arena in Peterborough, Geordie favourite Lewis Ritson (20-1, 12 KOs) takes on former long-reigning World Champion Miguel Vazquez (42-9, 16 KOs), Joe ‘Benwell Bomber’ Laws (9-0, 5 KOs) takes on Norwich’s Rylan Charlton (5-0-1, 2 KOs) over six rounds at Super-Lightweight, West Rainton’s Thomas Patrick Ward (29-0, 4 KOs) fights Thomas Essomba (10-6, 4 KOs) over ten rounds at Super-Bantamweight and Catford’s Ellie Scotney makes her professional debut against Bec Connolly (3-7) at Featherweight.

Philadephia, PA (October 14, 2020)–.After nearly eight months, boxing’s busiest promotional company, King’s Promotions returns to staging it’s own card on Saturday night, November 21st at the 2300 Arena with a sensational eight-round super middleweight main event featuring Brandon “B-Rob” Robinson and Genc “The Sexy Albanian” Pllana.

“We are so excited to be back doing our own shows. We have done our best to keep our fighters busy over the past several months, but it feels good to get back to doing what we do best, and that is to put on great shows with competitive bouts. On November 21st we come out of the shoot with a great main event. I want to thank a lot of people, especially Commissioner Greg Sirb and Roger ArtIgiani of the 2300 Arena for working with us through this challenging time to get back boxing back and up and running,” said King’s Promotions CEO Marshall Kauffman.

Robinson of Upper Darby, PA has a record of 15-2 with 10 knockouts.

The 32 year-old Robinson is a four-year professional who has impressive wins over Brandon Clark (2-0) and Erbest Amuzu (25-3).

Robinson is on a four-fight win streak which includes his 2nd round stoppage over Josue Obando on March 7th at the 2300 Arena.

Pllana of Hagerstown, Maryland via Kosovo, has a record 8-2-1 with four knockouts.

The 26 year-old Pllana is a three year veteran, who is not afraid to take on and ultimately defeat top competition.

Pllana already has wins over Jason Bell (3-0) and a win on ShoBox: The New Generation over regarded prospect Kevin Newman II (11-1-1). Pllana is coming off a decision loss to Maidel Sando (9-0) on September 23rd in Los Angeles.

In the six-round co-feature, James Martin (6-1, 1 KO) of Philadelphia fights undefeated Rafiq Muhammad (4-0, 2 KOs) of Richmond, VA in a welterweight fight.

Khainell Wheeer (4-0, 4 KOs) of Bethlehem, PA takes on Vincent Baccus (4-2-1) of Okmulgee, OK in a six-round super middleweight contest,

Recent King’s Promotions signees, middleweight Eric Monroe and flyweight LeAnna Cruz of Philadelphia will make their pro debuts.

Monroe will take on Roudly Lolo (0-0-1) of Camp Hill, PA; Cruz will fight Unique Harris (1-3-1) of Philadelphia in four-round bouts.

Tickets are $100 and $75 and MUST BE PURCHASED IN GROUPS OF FOUR AS THERE WILL BE TABLE SEATING ONLY, AND CAN BE PURCHASED AT PIVOTT BOXING ACADAMY (2807 NORTH 6TH STREET IN PHILADELPHIA)

THERE WILL BE NO TICKETS AT THE DOOR

FULL COVID PROTACALS WILL BE ENFORCED WITH ALL FANS MUST HAVE ID’S AND WEAR MASKS

as Vegas – UFC^® wraps up its second run on UFC FIGHT ISLAND with one of the most anticipated bouts of the year as UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov and interim champion Justin Gaethje battle to unify the belts. In the co-main event, former middleweight champion and No. 1 ranked Robert Whittaker takes on No. 3 Jared Cannonier in a pivotal bout with title implications. 

UFC^® 254: KHABIB vs. GAETHJE will take place Saturday, October 24 on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island and will stream live on Pay-Per-View, exclusively through ESPN+ in the U.S. at a special broadcast time of 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT in both English and Spanish. The prelims will be simulcast on ESPN2 and ESPN+ (English and Spanish) beginning at 12 p.m. ET/9 a.m. PT with the early prelims kicking off at 10:15 a.m. ET /7:15 p.m. PT simulcast on ESPN+ and UFC Fight Pass. The event is in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi.

ESPN+ is available on ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com and the ESPN App for mobile connected TV devices.?To subscribe, visit?espnplus.com/ufc.

Undefeated champion Nurmagomedov (28-0, fighting out of Dagestan, Russia) looks to put on another dominant performance and once again prove he is the best lightweight on the planet. Nurmagomedov is currently tied for the longest active win streak in the UFC with an impressive 12 victories in a row, which includes finishes over former champion Conor McGregor and former interim champion Dustin Poirier. He now seeks to extend his streak to 13 with a statement performance over Gaethje and make his case as the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter in the world.

Gaethje (22-2, fighting out of Arvada, Colo.) has become a fan favorite for the relentless and entertaining fight style that has earned him nine UFC post-fight bonuses in just seven fights. A proven finisher with a remarkable 20 of his 22 wins coming by stoppage, Gaethje rose through the lightweight ranks with knockouts over Edson Barboza, Donald Cerrone and Tony Ferguson. He now looks to realize his ultimate goal of attaining the undisputed UFC lightweight championship by becoming the first person to defeat Nurmagomedov.

Former UFC middleweight champion Whittaker (22-5, fighting out of Sydney, Australia) intends to continue his journey back to the title with his second marquee win of the year. The first Australian UFC champion, Whittaker initially made waves by winning The Ultimate Fighter: The Smashes in 2012. After moving up to the middleweight division, he went on an eight-fight win streak to capture the title, which included spectacular performances against Yoel Romero, Jacare Souza and Derek Brunson. He now aims to keep his momentum going against Cannonier and cement himself as the No. 1 contender for the belt.

Former heavyweight Cannonier (13-4, fighting out of Anchorage, Alaska) seeks to claim the most important win of his career and secure his first UFC title shot. After moving down to the middleweight division, Cannonier quickly established himself as a top contender with stoppage victories over David Branch, Jack Hermansson and former champion Anderson Silva. He now has his sights set on landing another signature knockout against Whittaker and seizing his spot at the top of the rankings.

Additional bouts on the card include:

• Top 10 heavyweights face off asNo. 6 ranked Alexander Volkov (31-8, fighting out of Moscow, Russia) battles No. 8 Walt Harris (13-8 1 NC, fighting out of Birmingham, Ala.)
• No. 2 ranked women’s flyweight Cynthia Calvillo (9-1-1, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif.) and No. 4 ranked Lauren Murphy (13-4, fighting out of Glendale, Ariz.) look to make a statement and earn their first UFC title shot
• No. 11 ranked light heavyweight Magomed Ankalaev (13-1, fighting out of Makhachkala, Russia) and Ion Cutelaba (15-5, fighting out of Chisinau, Maldova) finally meet in a highly anticipated bout guaranteed to deliver action
• Stefan Struve (33-12, fighting out of Beverwijk, The Netherlands) locks horns with Tai Tuivasa (10-3, fighting out of Western Sydney, Australia) in a heavyweight bout
• In a clash of UFC newcomers, Jacob Malkoun (4-0, fighting out of Sydney, Australia) meets Dana White’s Contender Series signee Phillip Hawes (8-2, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.) at middleweight
• In an exciting welterweight bout, Alex Oliveira (22-8-1 2 NC, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) aims to spoil the UFC debut of Shavkat Rakhmonov (12-0, fighting out of Kokshetau, Kazakhstan)
• Da-un Jung (13-2, fighting out of Seoul, South Korea) seeks to stay undefeated in the UFC when he takes on veteran Sam Alvey (33-14, fighting out of Temecula, Calif.) at light heavyweight
• UFC newcomers Umar Nurmagomedov (12-0, fighting out of Chelyabinsk, Russia) and Sergey Morozov (16-3, fighting out of Aktobe, Kazakhstan) aim to put on a show-stealing performance
• Liana Jojua (8-3, fighting out of Tbilisi, Georgia) battles Invicta FC veteran Miranda Maverick (7-2, fighting out of Norfolk, Va.)
• Top bantamweight prospects battle in a 140-pound catchweight bout as Nathaniel Wood (17-4, fighting out of London, England) meets Casey Kenney (15-2-1, fighting out of Tucsan, Ariz.)
• In a lightweight bout, Joel Alvarez (17-2, fighting out of Asturias, Spain) looks to extend his win streak when he takes on Alexander Yakovlev (24-9-1, fighting out of Fairfield, N.J. by way of Saint Petersburg, Russia)

Visit the UFC.com for information and content to support your UFC coverage.

###

About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 318 million fans and 102 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to nearly one billion TV households across more than 175 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 65 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS^®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC was acquired in 2016 by global entertainment, sports and content company Endeavor, along with strategic investors Silver Lake Partners and KKR. UFC is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat and Instagram: @UFC.

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ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service from Disney’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to 8.5 million subscribers, offering fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, as well as premium editorial content. 

Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $5.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) at ESPNplus.com, ESPN.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices). It is also available as part of The Disney Bundle offer that gives subscribers access to Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu (ad-supported) — all for just $12.99/month.

About ESPN

ESPN, the world’s leading sports entertainment enterprise, features more than 50 assets – nine U.S. television networks, ESPN Radio, ESPN.com, ESPN International, ESPN The Magazine and more.  ESPN is 80 percent owned by ABC, Inc. (an indirect subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company) and 20 percent by Hearst.

LAS VEGAS (October 13, 2020) —Fighters competing on Saturday’s undercard headlined by the lightweight unification bout featuring WBC Franchise/WBO/WBA champion Vasiliy Lomachenko and IBF kingpin Teofimo Lopez met the media Tuesday for a Zoom press conference. The MGM Grand Las Vegas Conference Center will play host to the closed-door event, and in the 10-round junior welterweight co-feature, former world title challenger Alex Saucedo will take on the unbeaten Arnold Barboza Jr. 

In an eight-round super middleweight special feature, Edgar Berlanga (14-0, 14 first-round KOs) will fight the durable Lanell Bellows.The undercard also includes rising junior welterweight Josue Vargas against Kendo Castaneda and 17-year-old Top Rank-signed welterweight phenom Jahi Tucker (1-0, 1 KO).

The entire card will air LIVE on ESPN, ESPN Deportes AND ESPN+ starting at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT. The main card (Lomacheko-Lopez, Saucedo-Barboza and Berlanga-Bellows) will begin at 10 p.m ET on ESPN, ESPN Deportes AND ESPN+.

Note: Clay Collard tested positive for COVID-19, so his fight against Quincy LaVallais is off. LaVallais will now fight Quatavious Cash in an eight-round middleweight contest.

Here is what the fighters had to say four days away from the biggest fight card of the fall.

Alex Saucedo

“I feel like my last fight with {Sonny} Fredrickson, it was kind of like my first fight with my new team. We had the Rod Salka fight, but that was a one-round knockout. I don’t think that counts. This last fight with Fredrickson, we were able to see a lot of things that we needed to work on and actually know each other more as a team. It was a good performance, but we learned a lot from that fight that we brought into this camp.”

“I have to show myself and I have to show my fans what I’m really about. {The Hooker fight} brought a lot of things down and getting a big performance, a big win, this Saturday night will put me back up there.”

“Barboza is an undefeated guy. It’s going to be a tough fight, but I gotta go out there and get an impressive win for myself.” 

“I want to fight the champions, but hopefully {the Jose Ramirez fight} does happen if they unify or don’t unify. The fight between me and Ramirez will happen, and if it doesn’t happen now, it’s going to happen some time. We’re both young, we both wanna fight each other, so that fight’s gonna happen either after this fight, or later on, it’s gonna happen.”

Arnold Barboza Jr.

“Of course he’s my toughest opponent yet, but I’ve got everything I need to beat him. I feel like I’m finally gonna get respect in this division.”

“We took a week off {after the Tony Luis win}, and we got right back into it. The weight’s never an issue, but it was way easier. It was a great camp. Conditioning is perfect. I just can’t wait. After this fight, there’s bigger things to come, but I don’t really look in the future. I look at now because if I don’t take of Saucedo, then there are no bigger plans. I don’t care about bigger plans or what people say about bigger plans. I have to take care of business Saturday.”

“I feel like my style and his style will bring out the best in both of us. I feel like we both need each other in some sense. He’s trying to get back to where he was, and I’m trying to get where he was at when he fought for the belt.”

Edgar Berlanga

“I worked hard in the gym and that’s what every fighter should be doing. It’s just putting the hard work in the gym, so that way I know going into the fight, my mind is 100 percent prepared to go those rounds, which will eventually happen. I’ve just been working extremely hard.”

“{Bellows} is going to come right at me. He’s that type of fighter. He’s smaller than me. He’s a smaller guy, so I know he’s going to bring the pressure. He’s going to bring the fight to me. I don’t see him trying to box me because I’m the bigger man. That’d be real stupid of him and a crazy game plan if they try to do that.”

“I’m 23 years old. I’m still developing as a fighter. I know I’m a killer, but I also know there are killers at 168. I just want to get 150 percent prepared for when the time comes. I have the world in my hands right now. I’m a hot young prospect. I have Puerto Rico behind me. I’m knocking everyone out, and I just want to {advance} my career. Eventually, we’re going to step up to those big fights because that’s what I want. I want the big paydays. I want the big fights.”

“I’ve been talking about the Canelo fight for a couple months already. I know it’s going to happen. It’s gotta happen. If I continue to win in beautiful fashion and keep doing what I do best, I know that fight is going to happen. He’s Mexico, I’m Puerto Rico. He has a big country behind him, I have a big country behind me. It’s one of the biggest rivalries in boxing today. {David} Benavidez is another guy that I’m looking forward to stepping in the ring with in the future. It’s boxing. These fights gotta happen. It’s good for the sport. It’s good for the culture.”

“I have to prove myself in order to step in the ring with those guys. I know I gotta prove myself in order to step in the ring with them because they had to pay their dues. They had to fight the best to get to where they’re at. And that goes for me, too. I have to fight the best to get to where they’re at, and eventually, the fight is going to happen.” 

Use the hashtag #LomaLopez to join the conversation on social media. For more information, visit www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook: facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing; twitter.com/ESPNRingside.

About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service from Disney’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to 8.5 million subscribers, offering fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, as well as premium editorial content. 

Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $5.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) at ESPNplus.com, ESPN.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices). It is also available as part of The Disney Bundle offer that gives subscribers access to Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu (ad-supported) — all for just $12.99/month.