Matchroom will promote the first ever women’s World Title triple-header on Saturday November 14, with Katie Taylor, Terri Harper and Rachel Ball all starring in an historic evening of boxing shown live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US. 

Taylor (16-0, 6 KOs) retained her Undisputed Lightweight World Title with a unanimous decision win over Delfine Persoon as their highly anticipated rematch produced another brutal battle on the final weekend of Fight Camp in August. 

The Irish star puts her World Titles on the line once more against Mandatory Challenger Miriam Gutierrez (13-0, 5 KOs), the undefeated Spaniard who has held the WBA’s Interim World Title since November 2019 following her win over Keren Batiz.

“I’m delighted to be headlining another fight night on Sky Sports,” said Taylor. “When I turned professional it was a bit of step into the unknown in terms of how it all would go so to have these opportunities to headline cards is something I never take for granted.

“It’s been a pretty quick turnaround from my last fight but I’m always looking towards the next challenge and I really wanted to fight again before the end of the year. The pandemic has obviously made it a very uncertain time in terms of scheduling fights so I’m really excited to have a date to focus on.

“I’m expecting a very tough fight against an undefeated challenger, but I’ve been back in training camp in the US for the past couple of weeks and I’m looking forward to successfully defending my titles on November 14.”

“I am very happy, eager and excited,” said Gutierrez. “I am preparing myself 100% for this fight with Katie. This is the great challenge that I have pursued in my sports career, to be able to fight for the undisputed crown.”

Denaby’s Harper (10-0-1, 5 KOs) retained her WBC and IBO Super-Featherweight World Titles with a thrilling split decision draw against Liverpool’s Natasha Jonas in an historic Fight of the Year contender at the top of the bill on Fight Camp Week 2.

‘Belter’ faces her first WBC Mandatory challenger in Spanish-Norwegian Katharina Thanderz (13-0, 2 KOs), the undefeated Interim WBC Super-Featherweight World Champion who claimed the title against Brazilian Danila Ramos after a brutal ten round battle last November. 

“This is the most excited I’ve been for a fight, I feel like I’ve got a lot to prove,” said Harper. “We’ve had the opportunity in this camp to work on lots of new things, having a strength and conditioning coach join the team. I want to go out and put the wrongs right.”

“It’s an amazing feeling to know that I’m finally fighting for the World Title,” said Thanderz. “I’ve been waiting such a long time for this moment, and I just know I’ll give my everything to win the title. Harper is a young and talented fighter. I think she’s a very hard-working girl. She’s fast, she has a good technique, she has stamina, and she’s a very good fighter. It will a pleasure to share the ring with her. 

“I am confident I can beat her. I have a very good feeling, and I’m working very hard in my camp to be the best version of myself. I know it will be very difficult, especially because of the circumstances of the fight, but I’m prepared to surprise and shock everyone when I get the win. I feel very good about fighting in the UK. I’ve never fought in England, so I can’t wait to have the experience of fighting in a completely new country with so many boxing fans.”

Walsall’s Ball (6-1) lands a dream World Title shot on the back of her breakout win over Shannon Courtenay on the third week of Fight Camp. The 29-year-old takes on popular undefeated Australian Ebanie Bridges (4-0, 2 KOs) for the vacant WBA Bantamweight crown. 

“I’ve been craving a big fight, now I’ve got it,” said Bridges. “I’m not coming to Britain to mess around; I’m going to take this opportunity with both hands and take that belt back to Australia with me in exciting style.”

“After my last fight I’m hungrier than ever, training harder than ever and asking myself everyday how I can improve,” said Ball. “I couldn’t be more excited for this fight. We’re friends but this fight isn’t going to be pretty, it’s business.”

“This a historic moment,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “A huge night of boxing that will be headlined by not one but three women’s World Title fights. Katie Taylor has spun the game on its head since she turned pro and has paved the way for so many great female fighters. Katie faces the second Mandatory Challenger during her undisputed reign in tough undefeated Spaniard Miriam Gutierrez. 

“While fresh off a Fight of the Year contender at Fight Camp, Terri Harper faces her first Mandatory Challenger in undefeated Spanish-Norwegian Katharina Thanderz and in a fairy tale story Rachel Ball has a chance to become World Champion against popular Aussie Ebanie Bridges. This is a major statement from us and our broadcast partners, don’t miss an incredible night on November 14.”

“Katie Taylor continues her epic journey as one of the world’s elite boxers on a terrific triple-header of women’s World Title action,” said Adam Smith, Head of Boxing Development at Sky Sports. “The Irish star displayed grit and determination in a punishing rematch win over Delfine Persoon in Fight Camp, and her renowned skills should also be on show against Miriam Gutierrez.

“Terri Harper battled to a thrilling draw with Natasha Jonas in one of the year’s most enthralling fights and she is back in action, defending her WBC belt versus Katharina Thanderz. Rachel Ball also receives a World Title fight after she dropped and shocked Shannon Courtenay, but she must now overcome Ebanie Bridges. Three fantastic World Title fights – all live on Sky Sports!”

NEW YORK – October 5, 2020 – Former world champion Sergey Lipinets will take on unbeaten Kudratillo Abdukakhorov for the Interim IBF Welterweight Title headlining action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, October 24 in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

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.

Lipinets vs. Abdukakhorov was originally scheduled to take place October 10, but was rescheduled because of a delay in Abdukakhorov receiving his visa. The event is promoted by TGB Promotions, Top Rank, Inc. and Mayweather Promotions.

“Sergey Lipinets announced himself last year as a serious contender in the welterweight division and can move closer to the top of the stacked weight class against the tough unbeaten Kudratillo Abdukakhorov on October 24,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “In undercard attractions, unbeaten Xavier Martínez can earn a career-best victory over the always dangerous Claudio Marrero, while talented super lightweight Malik Hawkins and the powerful Subriel Matías will clash with a chance for the winner to propel themselves up the 140-pound rankings. These are three evenly matched bouts that will show us a lot about all of the fighters, while treating fans to great action.”

“Given what Kudratillo has gone through to get this opportunity, the fight seems easier,” said Carl Moretti, Top Rank VP of Boxing Operations. “But everyone knows it won’t be.”

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, California 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.

Born in Uzbekistan and fighting out of Kuala, Lumpur, Malaysia, Abdukakhorov (17-0, 9 KOs) is the top-rated welterweight contender in the IBF rankings. The 27-year-old made his U.S. debut last March, defeating former title challenger Keita Obara by unanimous decision. Abdukakhorov followed that up with a wide technical decision triumph over former champion Luis Collazo last October.

A Mayweather Promotions prospect from Sacramento, Calif., Martínez (15-0, 11 KOs) has trained for this fight in Las Vegas, Nev. alongside three-time champion Gervonta Davis. The 22-year-old added three knockout victories to his record last year, and has stopped his last seven opponents heading into October 24. Martínez most recently knocked out Jessie Cris Rosales last November, and will step up in competition to face Marrero, as he seeks to move closer to a title shot.

The former interim featherweight champion Marrero (24-4, 17 KOs) will move up to the 130-pound division after a long run at 126-pounds that saw him face a slew of contenders and rising prospects. Representing Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Marrero captured his interim title in April 2017 with a first round knockout over then unbeaten Carlo Zambrano. The 31-year-old also owns a first-round stoppage of then unbeaten Jorge Lara in April 2018 and a decision victory over featherweight contender Eduardo Ramirez last June.

Another rising prospect in the Mayweather Promotions stable, Hawkins (18-0, 11 KOs), fights out of Baltimore, Maryland and is trained by Gervonta Davis’ coach Calvin Ford. The 24-year-old most recently triumphed over then unbeaten Darwin Price in December by fifth-round TKO. Hawkins was busy in 2019, picking up five victories in total following a 2018 campaign that saw him earn his first 10-round decision win by beating Raymond Serrano.

The 28-year-old Matías (15-1, 15 KOs) returns to action looking to bounce back from his first career defeat, a narrow decision loss to Petros Ananyan in February of this year. Prior to that, Matías had stopped all 15 of his opponents dating back to his pro debut in December 2015. October 24 will be his fourth fight in the U.S.

#

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

BOSTON (October 5, 2020) – “Quiet Storm” planning a Perfect Storm!

Former Southern Connecticut State University football player Jimmy “Quiet Storm” Williams is looking forward to shocking the boxing world this Wednesday night (Oct. 7), when he takes on undefeated, blue-chip prospect Brandun Lee (19-0, 17 KOs) on ShoBox: The New Generation, airing live on SHOWTIME from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut.

Lee vs. Williams was originally scheduled for September 19, but it was pushed back until Oct. 7, and will be contested at a 145-pound catchweight. “It’s been a plus to have more time to prepare,” Williams spoke about the change of date. “This is a big fight for me, and the extra time was only a few weeks. I’ve stayed sharp.”

The 33-year-ol Williams (16-3-2, 5 KOs), fighting out of West Haven, Connecticut, was a cornerback in college who, as an undrafted player, was invited to NFL tryouts as a free agent by the Raiders, Chiefs, Colts and Falcons.

Promoted by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment and Sports (CES), Williams will be making his debut as a member of manager Ryan Roach’s growing Fighter Locker stable.

“I think this is a great opportunity for Jimmy, Roach added. This is a big fight for us and a must win. Jimmy is up for the challenge. We’ve been waiting for this call. He has been working hard every day with his trainer, Dave Forsyth.

“This is our first fight together as a team and I am really looking forward to it. I know Brandun is special, but he hasn’t seen anything like Jimmy before, and he will stop this kid in the later rounds.”

Williams is a decisive underdog versus Lee, a rising star whose goal is to become the first world champion of Korean dissent. The 21-year-old Californian was a highly decorated American amateur: 3-time U.S. National Silver Gloves, 2013 PAL National and 2015 U.S. National Juniors champion. However, he’s never fought past four rounds and Williams will attempt to extend the gifted Lee, taking him into deep water in hopes of making him gas.
“I’m honored to fight on Showtime,” Williams said. “I never thought I’d have this opportunity in my career. My whole life I’ve been the underdog. I love the challenge and that’s what made me who I am today. I overcome things.

“I thank God and my promoter, CES and Jimmy Burchfield, and my manager, Ryan Roach. I’m truly blessed. This is going to be a great fight and I will give Lee his first loss.”
Williams will be fighting for the memory of his mother, Belinda Jordan Williams, who was strangled to death in 2008, and the case remains open.

Fighter Locker’s growing stable of gifted boxers also includes a talented Ukrainian trio of North American Boxing Association (NABA) super welterweight title holder Stanyslav Skofokhod (19-2, 16 KOs), word-rated welterweight Karen Chukhadzhian (16-1, 7 KOs) and super lightweight Zoravor Petrosyan (9-0, 4 KOs). Other Fighter Locker stablemates include Dominican Republic welterweight Juan Carlos “Merengue” Abreu (23-6-1, 21 KOs), the former IBF Youth World super lightweight champion, Lynn, MA super welterweight Khiry “TNT” Todd (10-1, 8 KOs),Dorchester, MA welterweight Gabriel Duluc (15-3, 4 KOs), Troy, NY super lightweight RayJay Bermudez, Toronto, Canada welterweight Jeff “The Trouble 1” Tabrizi (8-3, 7 KOs), Englewood, CO super featherweight Jesus Vasquez, Jr. (6-0,2 KOs), Auroraa, CO super middleweight “The Amazing” Shawn McCalman (4-0, 2 KOs) plus Irish National champion Paul Ryan, a welterweight in the pro ranks, and U.S. Army super bantamweight Daniel Bailey, Jr., who will both be making their pro debuts.

INFORMATION:
WEBSITE: fighterlocker.com, punch4parkinsons.com
FACEBOOK: /fighterlocker
TWITTER: @RoachRyan
INSTAGRAM: @RyanRoach82

JJ METCALF is ready to start making up for lost time and wiping out the British Super-Welterweight division, with Fowler, Fitzgerald and Flatley high on his F heavy hitlist.

Queensberry Promotions supremo Frank Warren is meeting Matchroom boss Eddie Hearn in the near future to discuss the promotional rivals boxers facing each other.

And one of the potential mouthwatering clashes is a local derby between Warren’s Commonwealth Super-Welterweight champion Metcalf and Matchroom-backed Fowler.

Metcalf (21-0, 13 KOs) must come through a tricky first  title defence against Bolton’s Jack Flatley (16-1-1, 4 KOs) at BT Sports Studio on Saturday October 10.

British champion Scott Fitzgerald has been ordered to defend the title against Metcalf, but the domestic title holder’s future is uncertain.

That could clear the path for Metcalf to face Fowler for the vacant British crown in a battle that would split Liverpool fight fans.

Metcalf is an Everton fan and Fowler supports Liverpool.

Metcalf who is ranked at five in the IBF rankings for Jermell Charlo’s world title said: “Fighting Fowler would be brilliant for Liverpool and capture the imagination especially as we’re both going well in our careers.

“A fight against Fowler in Liverpool is a big fight, and hopefully that comes off, but I would prefer to fight Scott Fitzgerald, right now.

“The reason I’d rather fight him than Fowler is that he is the British champion. I’d rather beat a champion than fight Fowler for the vacant title.

“Fitzgerald has beaten Fowler and Ted Cheeseman so it would be a better win for me, but I still have to get over Jack Flatley.

“I don’t know what the issues are with Scott, but he should start defending or relinquish the title.”

In the meantime, Metcalf is under no illusions about the ability of Flatley who he knows well having sparred “30 or 40 rounds.”

Flatley is always in thrillers and his brutal draw against Troy Williamson in June 2018 was one of the best fights seen in a British ring that year.

Hand injuries have caused Metcalf’s career to stall and since his title winning performance when he stopped Jason Welborn in June 2019, he has boxed just once.

On that occasion in February, Jan Balog was stopped in just 32 seconds.

Metcalf, the son of former top pro Shea Neary explained: “Before the Welborn fight I broke my hand quite badly and needed an operation, so I rolled the dice with that fight and took it.

“I had the operation afterwards and it took time to make a full recovery.

“I am not worried about the hand.I think it will be okay when I defend the title against Jack and it will work out okay on the night.

“I’ve been using it in sparring and it has felt okay so I am not worried. I think this operation has sorted it out.

“I’ve done loads of sparring with Jack and not even long ago either. The last time would have been last year. I know his style and how he will go about the fight.

“He is tough, strong, fit and throws a lot of shots. It will be a tough fight and no walk in the park.

“I could have done with a few more rounds since I won the title, but I have done good sparring and I’m prepared.”

Metcalf v Flatley is on a card headed by Welsh ace Liam Williams who defends his British Middleweight crown against mandatory challenger Andrew Robinson.

Watch Williams vs Robinson, Saturday on BT Sport 1 HD – Coverage starts at 7pm.

Katharina Thanderz (13-0, 2 KOs) will challenge Britain’s Terri Harper (10-0-1, 5 KOs) for the WBC and IBO World Super Featherweight titles on November 14th.

Norwegian Thanderz, who boasts an unbeaten professional record, became mandatory in November 2019 after claiming the interim WBC World Super Featherweight title with a points decision over Danila Ramos of Brazil.

Current champion Terri Harper caught the eye last time out, a pulsating 10-round split draw with Natasha Jonas saw the Doncaster fighter retain the titles that will now be on the line in the clash with Thanderz.

While respecting the potential in Harper, Thanderz believes she has the tools to perform on the night.

“It’s an amazing feeling to know that I’m finally fighting for the world title 

I’ve been waiting such a long time for this moment, and I just know I’ll give my everything to win the title.

“Harper is a young and talented fighter. I think she’s a very hard working girl. She’s fast, she has a good technique, she has stamina, and she’s a very good fighter. It will be a pleasure to share the ring with her. 

“I am confident I can beat her. I have a very good feeling, and I’m working very hard in my camp to be the best version of myself. I know it will be very difficult , especially because of the circumstances of the fight, but I’m prepared to surprise and shock everyone when I get the win.”

Fighting for the first time on British soil, Thanderz is positive and upbeat on her chances.

“I feel very good about fighting in the UK. I’ve never fought in England, so I can’t wait to have the experience of fighting in a complete new country with so many boxing fans.” 

At 13-0 and 10-0-1 respectively, an unbeaten showdown between Thanderz and Harper is a mouthwatering prospect with the winner walking away with unified world champion status.

“This is the most excited I’ve been for a fight, I feel like I’ve got a lot to prove,” said Harper. “We’ve had the opportunity in this camp to work on lots of new things, having a strength and conditioning coach join the team. I want to go out and put the wrongs right.”

Promoter Nisse Sauerland backed his fighter to come away with the win, and believes it is the perfect time to introduce Thanderz to the British scene.

“Katharina brings that Viking power and warrior spirit, and it’s a good time for her to come up against elite opposition. She’s undefeated, the interim belt holder and following the trail set by Cecilia Brækhus in bringing a world title back to Norway.

She’s said herself she’s going for greatness and you can see it in the way she operates, we can’t wait!”Eddie Hearn added “This is an historic moment. A huge night of boxing that will be headlined by not one but three women’s World Title fights. Katie Taylor has spun the game on its head since she turned pro and has paved the way for so many great female fighters.”

Joshua Buatsi stopped Marko Calic in round seven of their scheduled 12-round light heavyweight bout at Marshall Arena in Buckinghamshire, England.

In round three, Buatsi’s right eye began to swell.

In round seven Buatsi landed a hard right that sent Calic into the ropes. Calic was hurt bad, and ate a follow up combination that forced his corner to throw in the towel at 2:09.

Buatsi, 172.5 lbs is now 13-0 with 11 knockouts. Calic, 172.9 bs is now 11-1.

“His jaw was broken,” said Buatsi afterwards. “In the third round I felt my swelling. I thought ‘damn!’ You do what you’ve got to do. He went southpaw so I looped the right hand. He hid it, but he was hurt. This guy said he was coming to burst the Buatsi bubble. I was here to defend it.

“People didn’t know about him, the spectators and the public, but in our camp and within our team, we knew he was a good fighter. I was out for 400 days. We bit down on the gum shield and we got the win. This is a gentleman’s sport, big credit to Marko Calic. I wish him nothing but the best. I wish him good health. Maximum respect to him. 

“He came in and he gave me a good run for my money. I hope he gets home safely to Croatia. It was a hard fight but I learned. He didn’t just come to make up the numbers. He was a good fighter, heading into our fight unbeaten. I couldn’t see his right hands, I adapted. I dealt with it. If the World Title fight in 2021 opportunity is presented, and I’ve had the right fights, then absolutely.”

Cameron Decisions Araujo; Wins Super Lightweight title

Chantelle Cameron won the vacant WBC Super Lightweight title with a 10-round unanimous decision over Adriana Araujo.

Cameron, 137.9 lbs won by scores of 100-90 on all cards and is now 13-0. Araujo, weighed in over the limit at 131.9 lbs is now 6-1.

“I’m absolutely buzzing,” said Cameron. “Jamie and Nigel were telling me off at times because I was taking a few risks. She was a lot heavier and I could feel the weight difference. It’s just instincts, I like to have a scrap! Winning this World Title is perfect timing for me. If it were eight fights ago or even five fights ago she would have beat me because I would have just stood there toe-to-toe. Since I’ve been working with Jamie and Nigel, I’ve learned to box more. They keep telling me to pace myself and hold myself back more. It worked. 

“I can’t put it into words how it feels. I was nervous but my team kept me calm and it meant it was a good performance. I wanted this belt, so I had to keep my head on. She wasn’t professional enough to make the weight, but I knew no matter what I was becoming champion. Thanks to everyone for watching, I can’t wait to come back to Northampton with the belt. This is just the start.”

Trainer Jamie Moore added: “I’m over the moon for Chantelle. She’s worked so hard. The weight difference on the night was massive. I think she could have got her out of there if it was a level playing field. Tactically she followed the game plan brilliantly. This is the start for her now. She’ll be involved in some exciting fights.”

Udofia stops Harding in nine

Linus Udofia stopped John Harding Jr. in round nine of a scheduled 10-round middleweight fight.

In round nine, Udofia dropped Harding with a hard counter right. Harding got to his feet, but the fight was stopped at 2:07.

Udofia, 156.5 lbs is now 16-0 with eight knockouts. Harding, 156.2 lbs is 8-2-1.

“It wasn’t a bad performance having been out of the ring for such a long time,” Udofia told Matchroom after his win. “It was coming up to a year since my last fight, so it was good to get active again, especially during these strange times we are going through. I feel really good. I thought the performance went well, I was listening to Terry. I got caught with a couple of silly shots and we will work on that when we get back in the gym.

“I did a good enough job and we started to see him fade during the later rounds. That’s what we expected and we took advantage of it. I feel like we did well, but there’s a few things to work on. From what I saw I thought he was up after the knockdown. He got up slowly. I’m not going to argue with the ref because safety comes first. The stoppage was coming anyway. I might be being critical of myself but I think we’ve got a lot of things to work on if we’re going to move on to British and European level. 

“I don’t think I showed 100% of what I’m about. We’re going to enjoy a couple of days off and chill out. Then we’ll get back in the gym and we’ll work on things. We’ll see what the next steps are. Like I said, I feel like I’ve got more to offer. I think I need to display more. It’s not about the opponents it’s about the titles, so if I’m going up the levels there’s a few things we need to work on.”

Aleb Babic remained perfect with a 3rd round stoppage over Niall Kennedy in a scheduled eight-round heavyweight bout.

In round two, Babic dropped Kennedy with a left hook. In round three, it was another left hook that put Kennedy on the deck. Kennedy got up, but ate a flurry on the ropes and the fight was stopped at 34 seconds.

Babic, 199.4 lbs of Croatia is 5-0 with five knockouts. Kennedy, 219.8 lbs of Ireland is 13-3-1.

“He was badly shaken,” said Babic after his latest KO. “Even two minutes after the fight he was still badly shaken. He was down two times. It was a hard situation. I was savage, but I wasn’t 100% savage. I’m a little bit annoyed at myself. I’m angry at myself for that. I wanted to bring something new because I knew I could control Niall.

“I was much lighter than him but you saw how I controlled the ring. I wanted to show more stuff but he was too hittable. He was easy to hit so I just went with my guts, I blasted him out to force the stoppage. I beat Niall at maybe 60% of me. I wasn’t shook up once. It was a very easy fight. 

“Critics? I love you. Critics made me. They made me better. I will make you into my army. I will keep winning, I’ll have 10 fights and 10 KOs. Tom Little is next for sure. He should fight me. He is a cool guy; he is a warrior. It’s going to be a very fan friendly fight. The fans want to see it so lets get in the ring with Tom Little. I do all of this for my fans. I get so much love from my fans. Every single one of them is a part of my success.”

John Hedges won a decision over John Arden in a super middleweight bout.

Hedges, 165.5 lbs won by a 39-37 scores and is 1-0. Ardon, 165 lbs is 2-5.

“I feel like I did enough to get the win,” Hedges said afterwards. “It wasn’t a good performance from me in my opinion. I know what my ability is, and I know it’s better than that. No excuses really. There’s a better performance in John Hedges. You’ll see it next time, I can promise that.

“I rate my chin for my age. I didn’t feel the shots and I didn’t feel fazed by them. It’s the first-time boxing without a headguard and the first-time boxing with 10oz gloves. Everything is new and it’s what I wanted. I only found out about this opponent on Sunday night, so we didn’t have much notice – to add to the nerves. We were practising for an orthodox and a southpaw came in at the last minute.

“No excuses from me – I’m a better level than them boys. I got the win today but I’ve got a lot more to show. I’ll never forget this experience for as long as I live. It has been the best five days of my life, and the win has just topped it off. Thanks to Eddie Hearn and Matchroom for giving me the opportunity.”

In a battle of undefeated super featherweights, Aqib Fiaz won a decision over Kane Baker.

Fiaz, 131.3 lbs won by a 77-75 scores and is now 6-0. Baker, 130.9 lbs is 13-1.

“I’d like to thank the team at Matchroom for getting me on this show and keeping the trust in me after the incident last time,” Fiaz told Matchroom afterwards. “I’d like to thank my team, Jamie Moore, Nigel Travis and my brother. I love them guys to bits, and without them none of this would be possible.

“I thought I dropped maybe two rounds. It was my first eight rounder, last time I only fought over four, so it was a big jump up. We practiced pacing the fight. I was happy with my performance. I need to watch it back to score it and stuff but I’m happy enough with it yeah.

“I was pretty comfortable, I’m not going to lie. I knew he was going to bring it. I know what he’s about. He’s an all-action fighter, and I can be an all-action fighter too, but tonight was about pacing myself through eight rounds and gaining valuable experience for when I’m in title fights. We get the win and we move on.”

Mark Magsayo remained undefeated by winning a 10-split decision over Rigoberto Hermosillo in a featherweight bout at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.

Magsayo, 127 lbs of The Philippines won by scores of 100-90 and 96-94 while Hermosillo won a card 96-94.

Hermosillo landed 181 of 856 punches. Magsayo landed harder as he only was 136 of 417.

Magsayo is 21-0. Hermosillo, 126.6 lbs of Guadalajara, MX is 11-3-1.

“I’m very happy to get this victory,” said Magsayo, who was trained for the first time by renowned coach Freddie Roach heading into this bout. “Freddie got me in great shape for this fight and I’m happy working with him. I faced a tough fighter tonight, but I know I’m ready to beat anyone in the division.” “Magsayo is one of the best punchers in our gym,” said Roach. “He wasn’t letting his hands go enough tonight. We just need him to keep throwing more combinations, but he did enough to win the fight tonight and we’re grateful for that.”

Kroll Decisions Santamaria

Paul Kroll remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Luke Santamaria in a welterweight bout.

It was Santamaria who outlanded Kroll 81-65.

Kroll, 147 lbs of Philadelphia won by scores of 99-91 twice and 96-94 and is now 8-0. Santamaria, 146.4 lbs of Garden Groves, CA is 10-2-1.

Chavez Barrientes decisions Varela

Chavez Barrientes won a six-round unanimous decision over Ivan Varela in a featherweight contest.

Barrientes outlanded Varela 90-64.

Barrientes, 122.6 lbs of Las Vegas won by scores of 60-54 twice and 59-55 and is now 4-0. Varela, 123.8 lbs of Portervile, CA is 3-3.

Angel Barrientes decisions Ibarra

Angel Barrientes won a six-round unanimous decision over Fernando Ibarra in a super bantamweight bout.

In round six, Barrientes was docked a point for holding.

Barrientes outlanded Ibarra 112-39.

Barrientes, 120.3 lbs of Las Vegas won by scores of 59-54 on all cards and is now 4-0. Ibarra, 121.2 lbs of Leon, MEX is 2-2.

Jose Zepeda stopped Ivan Baranchyk in round five of a classic eight-knockdown fight that each guy hit the deck four times. The fight was a junior lightweight elimination bout at The MGM Grand Cinference Center in Las Vegas,

In round one, Baranchyk dropped Zepeda with a hard right over the top. Towards the end of the round Baranchyk sent Zepeda down for a 2nd time with a right hand that was followed by a left hook. In round two, Zepeda dropped Baranchyk with a left hand. Baranchyk came right back and sent Zepeda down for a 3rd time with his own hard right. In round three, Zepeda put Baranchyk down for a 2nd time with a left over the top. In round four, Zepeda drilled Baranchyk with a hard straight left that made the former champion fall on his back. In round five, Baranchyk landed a hard right that sent Zepeda into the corner for which referee Kenny Bayless ruled the corner post held him up. It was seconds later where Zepeda landed a right hook that followed by a short left hand that knocked Baranchyk out on his feet. Baranchyk buckled over his knee and was out cold for several minutes until he was able to get to his feet. The end came at 2:20.

Zepeda, 139.9 lbs of Le Puente, CA is 33-2 with 26 knockouts. Baranchyk, 139.6 lbs of Miami, FL is 20-2.

Zepeda said, “I feel great because I won the fight. It was a hard fight, and I’m thinking, ‘Man, boxing is hard. It’s no easy game.’ Boxing, it’s tough, and you have to give it 100 percent because it’s a hard sport.
 
“Both of us are climbing up, and somebody had to stay. I was able to win the fight, and I told him, ‘Thanks for the fight. It was a great fight.’
 
“I know I’m tough. I didn’t know how tough I was. Tonight, I showed myself, too. I’ve never been in a fight like this. It was a great learning experience.”

Flores decisions Kielczweski

Gabriel Flores Jr. remained undefeated by winning a 10-round unanimous decision over Ryan Kielczweski in a lightweight bout.

Flores outlanded Kielczweski 127-73.

Flores, 130.7 lbs of Stockton, CA won by scores of 100-90, 99-91 and 98-92 and is now 19-0. Kielczweski, 131 lbs of Quincy, MA is 30-5.

Flores said, “{I was not} buzzed at all. Not buzzed at all. I was a little bit off balance on my heel, which is rare. I’m always on my toes.
 
“I gotta stay in the pocket more. I need to stay on myself to stay in the pocket. I’m in the pocket landing shots, and then I feel like, ‘I’m bored here.’”

Vianello and Ibeh battle to a Draw

Kingsley Ibeh and undefeated Guido Vianello battled to a six-round majority draw in a heavyweight bout.

Vianello was cut in round two over his left eye. Ibeh was cut over gis right eye in the final round.

The scores read 59-55 for Ibeh and 57-57 twice.

Ibeh, 276.8 lbs of Phoenix, AZ is 5-1-1. Vianello, 238.7 lbs of Rome, ITA is 7-0-1.

Ragan decisions Moraga

Duke Ragan won a four-round unanimous decision over John Moraga in a featherweight bout.

In round three, Ragan was cut over his right eye.

Ragan outlanded Moraga 53-29.

Ragan, 126.4 lbs of Cincinnati, OH won by scores of 40-36 on all cards, and is 2-0. Moraga, 127.7 lbs of Phoenix, AZ is 1-2.

Frevian Gonzalez remained undefeated with a four round majority decision over Carlos Marrero III in a junior lightweight bout.

Gonzalez, 131.8 lbs of Cidro, PR won by scores of 40-36 twice and 38-38 to raise his mark to 4-0. Marrero, 130.5 lbs of Bridgeport, CT is 2-4-1.

Mitchell Sipe stopped Jimmy Barnes in the opening seconds of their four-round heavyweight bout.

In a wild opening seconds, Sipe dropped Barnes with a hard combination. Barnes, who clearly has not had boxing training ate more hard shots until the fight was mercifully stopped at 43 seconds.

Sipe, 248.9 lbs of Bakersfield, CA is 1-0 with one knockout. Barnes, 290.6 lbs of Pine City, MN is 1-1.

Haven Brady Jr. made a successful pro debut by stopping Gorwar Karyah in the 4th and final round of their featherweight bout.

In round Round two, Brady was deducted a point for a low blow.

In round four, Karyah was deducted a point for holding. Later in the round, Brady continued to land some hard power shots, and the fight was stopped with Karyah on the ropes at 2:27.

Brady, 125.9 lbs of Albany, GA is 1-0 with one knockout. Karyah, 124 lbs of Philadelphia is 2-2.

JJ Mariano stopped Matthew Reed in the opening round of their scheduled four-round welterweight bout.

Mariano dropped Reed. Reed was hurt and Mariano hurt him in the corner and the fight was stopped at 1:27.

Mariano, 144 lbs of Reno, NV is 3-0 with two knockouts. Reed, 149.6 lbs of Bakersfield, CA is 1-1.

NEW YORK (October 3, 2020) – TONIGHT at the MGM Conference Center, two members of the Split-T Management stable will be in action on a big card that will be streamed by ESPN + (7:30 PM ET).

Former IBF Junior Welterweight World Champion, Ivan Baranchyk will take a very important step back towards 140-pound supremacy when he takes on former world title challenger Jose Zepeda in a 10-round bout.

Haven Brady Jr. will make his much talked-about pro debut when battles Gorwar Karyah in a four-round featherweight contest.

Baranchyk of Miami, Oklahoma by way of Amursk, Russia has a record of 20-1 with 13 knockouts, and is looking for his 2nd consecutive win since dropping his title in a highly-contest bout to now unified champion Josh Taylor. Baranchyk won the title by stopping via 7th round stoppage over Anthony Yigit on October 27, 2018.

The 27 year-old is coming off a 4th round stoppage over tough New Yorker Gabriel Bracero in four-rounds on October 5, 2019 at Madison Square Garden.

Baranchyk is co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Holden Productions.

Zepeda has a record of 32-2 with 25 knockouts, and has won two straight, which includes a win over former two-division world champion Jose Pedraza. The 31 year-old Zepeda’s only two blemishes have come in world title bouts to Jose Ramirez and Terry Flanagan. The La Puente, California native is coming off a 10-round unanimous decision win over Kendo Casteneda on July 7th,

At Friday’s weigh-in, Baranchyk was 139.6 lbs, while Zepeda was 139.9 lbs

Also, seeing action will be highly decorated amateur Haven Brady Jr.

The 18 year-old Brady will be making his pro debut in a four-round featherweight fight against Gorwar Karyah

Brady, is from Albany, Georgia, and was the 2019, Jr. National Olympic Gold Medal winner at 132 pounds. His amateur career saw him go 65-10 with 30 knockouts. Besides winning the Jr. Nationals, Brady won the 2019 Eastern Qualifiers and 2019 Jr. National PAL.

He has a very exciting style, who likes to throw a lot of power shots.

Karyah of Philadelphia is 2-1 with both wins coming by knockout.

Brady is promoted by Top Rank.

Brady weighed in at 125.9 lbs. Karyah was 124 lbs.

Photos by Mikey Williams / Top Rank

19:00 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS ARENA
 
19:07 RING WALK

10 x 3 mins English Middleweight Title 
LINUS UDOFIA 11st 2lbs 5oz v JOHN HARDING JR 11st 2lbs 2oz
(Luton)                                        (Brixton)

Followed by

4 x 3 mins Super-Middleweight contest 
JOHN HEDGES 11st 13lbs 5oz  v JAN ARDON 11st 11lbs 0oz
(Takeley)                                         (Manchester)

followed by

8 x 3 mins Super-Featherweight contest 
AQIB FIAZ 9st 5lbs 3oz v KANE BAKER 9st 4lbs 13oz
(Oldham)                            (Birmingham)

followed by

8 x 3 mins Heavyweight contest 
ALEN BABIC 14st 3lbs 4oz v NIALL KENNEDY 15st 9lbs 8oz
(Croatia)                                   (Ireland)

followed by

21:30 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS MAIN EVENT

10 x 2 mins vacant WBC Super-Lightweight World Title
CHANTELLE CAMERON 9st 11lbs 11oz  v ADRIANA ARAUJO 10st 5lbs 11oz
(Northampton)                                               (Brazil)

followed by

12 x 3 mins WBA International Light-Heavyweight Title
JOSHUA BUATSI 12st 4lbs 5oz v MARKO CALIC 12st 4lbs 12oz
(Croydon)                                      (Croatia)

Joshua Buatsi – Croydon, England – 12-0, 10 KOs – defending his WBA International Light-Heavyweight Title against Marko Calic:

“It has been 400 days and counting, so I’m glad to be back. I’ve got a good opponent and I’m looking forward to it. I can’t wait to box on Sunday. Staying around family and loved ones has helped me through this difficult year. There’s a lot of negative stuff that has happened this year but for me it’s about looking on the positive side of things. 

“I’m 27-years-old and I’ve still got years ahead of me. I’m just waiting, and an opportunity is here on Sunday. That’s all I’m thinking about right now. I’m fixed on it. What I like to do is surpass expectations. Things have happened that have stalled things. On Sunday it’s all about winning. I’d like to get out again before the end of the year.  

“He’s unbeaten, he’s hungry, he wants to fight, he wants to win. I’ve got the same attitude and in those ropes I know I’m a totally different person. Right now I’m cool, I’m calm, polite. We can talk and everything, but in that ring, I know what time it is.”Marko Calic – Croatia – 11-0, 6 KOs – challenging Joshua Buatsi the WBA International Light-Heavyweight Title:

“I am ready. This is like a dream come true for me. I have prepared very well. I have trained in boxing for more than 12 years. This is a big opportunity for me and I’m ready for it. My style is hit and not get hit, but we’ll see. I’m ready for anything. All of us have weaknesses. Like I have weakness and he also has weakness. We’ll find out on Sunday.

“He’s my biggest, toughest test right now in my career, but I study him, I know him since [being an] amateur, so I know he’s a very good boxer and I’ll do my best and try to win. I’m ready.”Chantelle Cameron – Northampton, England – 12-0, 7 KOs – fighting Adriana Dos Santos Araujo for the vacant WBC Super-Lightweight World Title:

“I think it’s perfect timing for me. I joined Jamie Moore and Nigel Travis last year and became Mandatory in two weights, and now it’s the right time to get a World Title shot. 

“It’s a massive buzz in the gym, and it’s a fun gym to be a part of. You’ll see a little bit of everything from me on Sunday. I will box, be aggressive, stand there and fight, and be smart too.

“During Fight Camp the women were flying the flag, and now I’m ready to carry that on and become world champion. She’s a tough opponent and I give her credit. I’m not underestimating her, but she doesn’t beat me, it’s as simple as that. 

“It will mean everything to me to become World Champion and be a dream come true. I’ll focus on Sunday and then look beyond that.”Adriana Dos Santos Araujo – Brazil – 6-0, 1 KO – challenging Chantelle Cameron for the vacant WBC Super-Lightweight World Title:

“It’s an honour to be here again. I was here in 2012 for the Olympics and had a big party after winning the bronze medal, and now I’ll bring the World Title back to Brazil and have another party.

”I have a lot of experience as an amateur with more than 300 fights, I beat great fighters as an amateur so I believe that my experience will show. My nickname is ‘The Pitbull’, and I’m looking for blood on Sunday.”

Alen Babic – Zagreb, Croatia – 4-0, 4 KOs – fighting Niall Kennedy in an eight round Heavyweight contest:

“I have a lot of Irish fans. A lot of them messaged me: ‘Please, be good to Niall, he’s a good man’. I see that and it’s going to be hard to activate ‘The Savage,’ he’s such a nice man. I don’t want to hurt him, but I will do that in the ring, I will have to do it.

“But I’m not going to say nothing bad about him now, because I do respect him and I have a lot of respect for boxing. I don’t see him beating me, honestly. I think he’s [an] average boxer at best. It’s just my opinion. He could be much better than that. I’m going to do everything the fans want from me.”

Niall Kennedy – Gorey, Ireland – 13-1-1, 8 KOs – fighting Alen Babic in an eight round Heavyweight contest:

“Look, I’m coming over here to win and when I beat Alen, I move on and it will be seen by loads of people because of this man. It will be interesting, it will be fun. I’m not going to have to send a search team, to be fair to him. I’m not going to have to look for you. He won’t have to look for me. It will be exciting.”

Aqib Fiaz – Oldham, England – 5-0 – fighting Kane Baker in an eight round Super-Featherweight contest:

“It was disappointing and horrible for me at the time but it is what it is. I’m a big believer in God having a bigger plan. This was his plan and we’re here now. The fight is on Sunday and it will be an exciting fight for the fans. I’m looking forward to it. Within ten days or so I was back in the gym.

“I’ve been fighting my whole life. Everyone thinks I’ve had it easy because I’m now signed by Matchroom and trained by Jamie Moore and Nigel Travis, but I’ve not had it easy. We’ve had ups and downs. I’ve been fighting my whole life and I’m ready.

“We’ve had a lot of time to work on things during lockdown, things like my timing and pacing the rounds. This fight has come at the perfect time for me. I’m more suited to higher rounds and I’m more than ready to fight over eight rounds.”

Kane Baker – Birmingham, England – 13-6 – fighting Aqib Fiaz in an eight round Super-Featherweight contest:

“I’ve stopped looking back. I’m just looking forward now. This is real again. I’m excited again. I’m as solid as I was the first time. I’m more prepared than I was the first time. I’m just ready to go. I’m excited to watch myself and see how I perform.

“This would be a massive win for me. I rate him highly. He’s a talented young prospect and I respect him for that, but it’s going to be a different part of the sport that he hasn’t seen yet and we’ll see if he’s up for the challenge. It’s his first step up.”

John Hedges – Takeley, England – making his professional debut in a four round Super-Middleweight contest with Jan Ardon:

“I’m only 18 but I’ve worked my whole life for a moment like this. I’m going to grab it with both hands. In the amateurs I had 44 fights and 40 wins. I won seven International Titles and four Nationals. I went all over in the amateurs and travelled the world. I represented England numerous times. Now I’m here on the pro stage.

“The opportunity came to turn pro and I couldn’t let it slip. Mentally I’ve been ready for this since I started boxing. It has always been my dream. It has come a little bit earlier than I thought. My last win was the ABA Finals. I’m coming off a great win and I can’t wait to get started.”

Jan Ardon – Manchester, England – 2-4 – fighting John Hedges in a four round Super-Middleweight contest:

“I came to this country because of boxing. It is very popular in this country. I am very settled in Manchester, I like the city. On Sunday I’m going to put on a drama show. I’m ready for it and I’m confident. John is a good fighter and experienced in the amateurs. I think it is going to be a good fight. I’m ready.”

Linus Udofia – Luton, England – 15-0, 7 KOs – defending his English Middleweight Title against John Harding Jr:

“I can’t see this going any other way than me staying an undefeated champion. I’m really confident. I’ve been here before. I’ve been at this level for a while now. I feel like it’s time to showcase that, and what an opportunity to be on Sky Sports to show that.

“I feel like I can adapt to whatever is in front of me. If I need to box I can box, if I need to fight I can fight. I’ve seen John fight before. I’ve shared rounds with him sparring. I know what he’s about. I’m expecting the best John Harding because he’s been with top trainers. 

“I didn’t really think I was going to get another opportunity to compete this year and defend my title. To be on a platform like this is absolutely fantastic. I’m going to take it with both hands. I’m just really happy to be here and have the opportunity to showcase my skills on Sunday.”

John Harding Jr – Brixton, England – 8-1-1, 2 KOs – challenging Linus Udofia for the English Middleweight Title:

“I bring war! I don’t fear him at all. I’m going to take that title away from him this Sunday. My heart separates us. He ain’t got heart like me. He ain’t fearsome like me. He hasn’t been through what I’ve been through. He might have more experience than me in the ring, but there’s things that have happened outside of the ring that have given me so much experience. 

“My heart is too big. I’m not going to back down. I’m a real champion. I know there’s going to be an opportunity for me to land, and when I do land cleanly, he’ll go down. I visualise myself stopping him and the ref waving it off.”

Live boxing will make its long-awaited return to Italy on Friday October 23 with a stacked show at the Allianz Cloud in Milan behind closed doors, almost a year on from the last Matchroom Boxing Italy and OPI Since 82 promoted show in the country, with all of the action shown exclusively on DAZN.
 
Main event on huge evening of boxing sees Florence’s Fabio Turchi (17-1, 13 KOs) attempt to bounce back from a first career defeat last time out in Trento as he takes on Latvia’s Nikolajs Grisunins (12-1-1, 5 KOs) for the vacant IBF International Cruiserweight Title.
 
‘Stone Crusher’ was building strong momentum in his homeland with impressive knockout wins over Tony Conquest and Sami Enbom, both live on DAZN, before he suffered a first loss at the hands of Tommy McCarthy in October last year, surrendering his WBC International Title in the process. 
 
The 27-year-old southpaw is eager to put that loss behind him and resume his push towards a World Title shot, knowing that a win over fellow southpaw Grisunins will help maintain his reputation as one of the rising stars of Italian boxing. 
 
In an exciting co-main event feature, the undefeated Maxim Prodan (18-0-1, 14 KOs) puts his IBF International Welterweight Title on the line against Ferrara’s Nicola Cristofori (12-2-2, 1 KO) and former WBO Global Welterweight Champion Dario Morello (15-1, 2 KOs) meets former WBC Silver Champion Andrea Scarpa (24-6, 11 KOs) over ten rounds, with the winner of each contest facing each other at a later date. 
 
Some of the best up and coming prospects in the country return to action as former WBC International Silver Featherweight Champion Francesco Grandelli (13-1-1, 2 KOs) looks to build on his win over former Commonwealth Champion Reece Bellotti, Verbania’s undefeated Super-Middleweight talent Ivan Zucco (11-0, 9 KOs) fights over six rounds, Roma’s Super-Welterweight talent Mirko ‘Terminator’ Natalizi (7-0, 4 KOs) resumes his exciting career and Novarah Super-Welterweight Samuel Nmomah (13-0, 4 KOs) looks to protect his unbeaten record.
 
“After what will be nearly a year of no events in Italy due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, I’m delighted that we are returning on October 23 with our partners at OPI Since 82,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “We were building great momentum with packed out shows since our launch event in November 2018, and I can’t wait to welcome fans back into the arena when it is safe to do so. Watch all of the action live and on demand on DAZN!”
 
“After these difficult and unprecedented times, we are glad to bring back Italian boxing live on DAZN,” said Christian Cherchi of OPI Since 82. “We are looking forward to watching Fabio Turchi back in a championship fight as he looks to resume his climb up the Cruiserweight rankings. The Welterweight tournament between Prodan, Cristofori, Morello and Scarpa will provide fireworks, and it is always good to see an undercard featuring some of the best Italian prospects. Don’t miss it live and on demand on DAZN!”

Takeley Super-Middleweight giant John Hedges isn’t short on confidence ahead of his keenly anticipated professional debut on the undercard of Joshua Buatsi vs. Marko Calic on Sunday October 4, shown live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US. 

The elusive 6’ 5” southpaw, recently signed to Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing, meets Jan Ardon over four rounds on his introduction to the paid ranks following a glittering spell in the amateurs in which he won four National Titles and seven International Titles, amassing an impressive 40 wins from 44 fights. 

Known as ‘Gentleman John’, the gifted 18-year-old prospect fights out of the Hoddesdon Boxing Academy in Hertfordshire under the guidance of his trainer Sab Leo, and now finds himself part of a Matchroom stable that boasts two undefeated 168lbs World Champions in Callum Smith and Billy Joe Saunders.

Essex native Hedges, also guided by Sam Jones of S-JAM Boxing, believes his flashy style is well-suited to the pro game and will help establish him as a fan favourite as he looks to become the latest traveller to make a name for themselves in the squared circle. 

“It’s a big ‘un isn’t it!” said Hedges. “My first fight live on Sky Sports on a massive undercard, what more could you ask for? This is where I want to be, and I’ll start as I mean to go on. This is a big show and I hope it brings big things for me. 

“I’m buzzing with everything at the moment. Seeing all of the publicity around my signing and my debut is amazing. I’ve got a great following and I’m loving every minute of it. I’ve been in the gym every day training hard so roll on October 4, we’re ready to go.

“Naturally you feel a bit of pressure. Being this young it’s all new to me. Any young fighter will say it’s natural pressure from being put on the big stage live on Sky Sports. I’m getting put in at the deep end and I think I’ll shine brighter because of it.

“Some people crumble under pressure but I believe this is the best way I could have gone about things, going straight in at the deep end and into the limelight. I want to be the best prospect in Britain. That’s my main aim for now.

“I honestly believe that I will become a World Champion one day. I will get to that level. I’m not in a rush. I’ve got to prove myself, and October 4 is the first step of my mission. I’m going to take things step-by-step. When the opportunities present themselves, I’m going to take them as quickly as I can.”

Hedges vs. Ardon is part of a big night of action topped by Croydon’s rising Light-Heavyweight star Joshua Buatsi (12-0, 10 KOs) defending his WBA International Title against undefeated Croat Marko Calic (11-0, 6 KOs), Chantelle Cameron (12-0, 7 KOs) land a World Title shot in her very first bout as a Matchroom fighter as she takes on Brazil’s Adriana Dos Santos Araujo (6-0, 1 KO) for the vacant WBC Super-Lightweight crown, ‘The Savage’ Alen Babic (4-0, 4 KOs) returns to the UK looking to impress again as he locks horns with Irishman Niall Kennedy (13-1-1, 8 KOs) in an eight round Heavyweight contest, Luton’s Linus Udofia (15-0, 7 KOs) puts his English Middleweight Title on the line for the first time against Dillian Whyte-backed Brixton man John Harding Jr (8-1-1, 2 KOs) and Aqib Fiaz (5-0) and Kane Baker (13-6) look to settle the score after their Fight Camp disappointment.

Joshua Buatsi says there is no chance of him underestimating former Croatian amateur standout and current undefeated professional Marko Calic ahead of their ten round clash for the WBA International Light-Heavyweight crown this Sunday October 4, shown live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US. 

Rio 2016 Olympic bronze medallist Buatsi (12-0, 10 KOs) hasn’t fought since he became the first man to stop Canada’s Ryan Ford on the Vasyl Lomachenko vs. Luke Campbell show at The O2 in London last August, and the Anthony Joshua-backed talent will be looking to make up for lost time following over a year out of the ring. 

Standing in his way of huge fights with the likes on London rival Anthony Yarde and Matchroom stable mate Callum Johnson is Calic, the 6′ 3″ former Heavyweight amateur who is promising to seize his golden opportunity on the big stage, with no intention of serving as a mere stepping stone for rising star Buatsi.

“Marko Calic is a solid opponent who will be coming to win,” said Buatsi. “He’s very experienced in the amateur scene and was around on the circuit years before me. He boxed in the 91kg category as an amateur, I always fought at 81kg. He’s represented his country in a lot of tournaments, Europeans, World Championships and the World Series of Boxing.

“This is a well-established amateur. As a pro he is undefeated with a record of 11-0. That’s all I need to know about him. He had loads of WSB fights so he knows what he is doing. He knows how to handle himself. It’s my job to go in there and to come out on top, which I’m very confident of doing. I’m doing everything that I can to make sure that I remain unbeaten on October 4^th. 

“He’ll be game and he’ll try it but that’s what I’m expecting, so I’ll be there too. If the opportunity for a knockout comes, as always, I’ll take it. The aim is to go out there and box, get some rounds in. I wouldn’t shy away from saying if I hurt someone within the first couple of rounds, I’m there to close the show. The overall aim is to win. That’s where my mind set is at. On October 4^th that’s what I’m getting in there to do.” 

Buatsi vs. Calic tops a big night of action that sees Chantelle Cameron (12-0, 7 KOs) land a World Title shot in her very first bout as a Matchroom fighter as she takes on Brazil’s Adriana Dos Santos Araujo (6-0, 1 KO) for the vacant WBC Super-Lightweight crown, ‘The Savage’ Alen Babic (4-0, 4 KOs) returns to the UK looking to impress again as he locks horns with Irishman Niall Kennedy (13-1-1, 8 KOs) in an eight round Heavyweight contest, Luton’s Linus Udofia (15-0, 7 KOs) puts his English Middleweight Title on the line for the first time against Dillian Whyte-backed Brixton man John Harding Jr (8-1-1, 2 KOs), Aqib Fiaz (5-0) and Kane Baker (13-6) look to settle the score after their Fight Camp disappointment and recent Matchroom signing John Hedges makes his pro debut at Super-Middleweight against Jan Ardon (2-4)

Linus Udofia insists that all of the pressure is on John Harding Jr ahead of their ten round battle for the English Middleweight crown on the Buatsi vs. Calic undercard this Sunday October 4, shown live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US. 

Luton’s Udofia (15-0, 7 KOs) won the English Title, his first major belt, with a majority decision against Tyler Denny at York Hall in November last year, and the 27-year-old is in a supremely confident mood ahead of what will be his first defence against Brixton’s Harding Jr. 

Undefeated in 15 fights, the Steve Goodwin-managed talent, trained by Terry Steward at the J.E.T Boxing and Fitness Centre in Epping, believes his class will show against the Dillian Whyte-backed 36-year-old, who fell short in an attempt for the English Title against Jack Cullen back in August 2019.

“This is a fight where I get to showcase how good I am and why I’m a champion at this weight,” said Udofia. “I’ll show what level I’m at and then move on to bigger and better things. Right now, I’ve got to defend this Title first, and this is a massive opportunity for me. You can’t get a bigger platform than this and I’m going to grab it with both hands. 

“I don’t feel any pressure. I’ve won this belt, I’ve got to defend it, and I’ve got to show everyone why I won this belt. John competed for the belt before and he wasn’t successful. All of the pressure is on him to come and get it the second time. I’m all good, I’m the champion, and I’ve got to show everyone why I’m the champion.

“I understand that everyone has got to hype themselves up in a certain way. It’s always good to see ‘Pester Superstar’ pop up and say something crazy. I look at it, have a laugh with my mates and get back to focusing on me. It’s good to see that he’s watching me all of the time. 

“We had a couple of spars; he was with Leon McKenzie and I don’t really even remember what happened. He can have 2-0 in sparring if he wants, I’ll take the win in the actual fight. He can have sparring, I don’t care. By beating him I just want to show that he’s not on the same level as me. I’m a champion and he isn’t. I want to show that and move on from there.”

Udofia vs. Harding Jr is part of a big night of action that sees Croydon’s rising Light-Heavyweight star Joshua Buatsi (12-0, 10 KOs) defend his WBA International Title against undefeated Croat Marko Calic (11-0, 6 KOs), Chantelle Cameron (12-0, 7 KOs) lands a World Title shot in her very first bout as a Matchroom fighter as she takes on Brazil’s Adriana Dos Santos Araujo (6-0, 1 KO) for the vacant WBC Super-Lightweight crown, ‘The Savage’ Alen Babic (4-0, 4 KOs) returns to the UK looking to impress again as he locks horns with Irishman Niall Kennedy (13-1-1, 8 KOs) in an eight round Heavyweight contest,  Aqib Fiaz (5-0) and Kane Baker (13-6) look to settle the score after their Fight Camp disappointment and recent Matchroom signing John Hedges make his pro debut at Super-Middleweight. 

Dennis Contreras scored a vicious 6th round knockout over previously undefeated Carlos Flores at the Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida.

In the 6th round, Contreras landed a perfect right cross on the chin of Flores that sent him down on his front, and he could not beat the count at

Contreras, 126 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is 23-10-1 with 21 knockouts. Flores, 125 lbs is 20-1.

Otar Eranosyan slugged his way to a six-round unanimous decision over Luis Valentin in a battle of undefeated lightweights.

In round one, Valentin landed a right hand to the head that was ruled a knockdown. In round two, Eranosyan evened things up by registering a knockdown of his own.

Late in round six, Eranosyan landed a thudding right on the jaw that sent Valentin down for a 2nd time.

Eranosyan, 134 lbs won by scores of 58-53 twice and 58-54 and is and is now 2-0. Valentin, 135 lbs is 3-1.

Hairon Socarras stopped Julio Buitrago after round three of their scheduled six-round lightweight fight.

Socarras, 130 lbs is now 23-1-3 with 15 knockouts. Buitrago, 136 lbs is 13-24.