Katie Taylor says she will silence her critics by putting on a “dominant performance” when she defends her WBC, WBA, IBF, WBO and Ring Magazine Lightweight World Titles against Delfine Persoon in a huge rematch at Matchroom Fight Camp this Saturday August 22, live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK and DAZN in the US. 

The undefeated Irish star (15-0, 6 KOs) captured the WBC crown with a majority-decision victory last June in New York, which was greeted with dismay by Belgium’s Persoon after ten thrilling rounds that had the MSG crowd on their feet throughout, and they will renew their rivalry this weekend in the biggest women’s rematch in the history of the sport.

Taylor is looking to get a more definitive win over Persoon before moving on to further legacy fights as she continues to cement herself as one of the best female fighters of all time. A second fight with newly-crowned Undisputed Welterweight ruler Jessica McCaskill could be on the cards after the American caused a huge upset against long-reigning champion Cecilia Braekhus over the weekend.

“I’m in this sport to create history and leave a great legacy,” said Taylor. “These are the kind of fights that are going to leave a great legacy in my career. The first fight was too close for my liking. It has been hanging over my head over the last year, so I was delighted when the rematch was nailed down. I’m looking forward to putting on a more dominant performance on August 22^nd and shutting up everyone that has criticised me over the last year.

“I did watch the fight back and it was obviously a very close fight. That’s why there is a rematch. I definitely couldn’t have given her more than five rounds, so for people to say it was a disgraceful decision or it was a robbery, is a disgrace in itself. I felt like I deserved to win the fight even though it was very close. I wanted this rematch. At the end of the day, I want to be involved in the biggest fights and the fights that people are interested in. This is a huge fight for me and for Persoon. It’s a huge fight for the sport.

“I think I’m going to be a completely different fighter on August 22^nd. I think people are going to see a completely different performance and a completely different fight from my perspective. I got drawn into a bit of a fight in the first one and sometimes that happens. I’m definitely going to be a bit more disciplined in this fight. I’m going to be ready for whatever Persoon throws at me. I’m completely prepared for this fight. I’ve been training for a big fight since January so I’m more than ready to step in and put on a dominant performance.”

Taylor vs. Persoon 2 lands on a huge night of action that sees Dillian Whyte (27-1, 18 KOs) defend his Interim WBC Heavyweight World Title against Russia’s Alexander Povetkin (35-2-1, 24 KOs), Luther Clay (13-1, 5 KOs) defends his WBO Global Welterweight Title against Chris Kongo (11-0, 6 KOs), Super-Middleweights Jack Cullen (18-2, 9 KOs) and Zak Chelli (7-1, 3 KOs) meet over eight rounds and Croatian Heavyweight contender Alen Babic (3-0, 3 KOs) steps up to face Shawndell Winters (13-3, 12 KOs) over eight rounds. 

(August 17, 2020) — Omar Rosario, a six-time Puerto Rican national amateur champion who won the 2020 Olympic Trials at 152 pounds, signed a multi-year promotional contract with Top Rank.
 
Rosario, 22, will make his professional debut as a junior welterweight Friday evening in a four-round bout at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Fla.
 
“My dream has always been to be promoted by Top Rank, and I am excited that my dreams are coming true,” Rosario said. “I worked extremely hard to get here, and this is a testament to the hard work we do in and out of the ring. I am ready to conquer the boxing world and become Puerto Rico’s next superstar.”
 
Said Tim VanNewhouse, Rosario’s manager, “Omar is an outstanding talent and I’m happy I could fulfill his expectations of aligning him with Top Rank. Although I had big Olympic hopes for him, I know he is going to have a promising future in the pros.”
 
Rosario hails from Caguas, the same city that produced Miguel Cotto. As a young man, he was trained by Cotto’s father, Miguel Cotto Sr. He compiled a 175-34 record in the unpaid ranks and is currently trained by Joe Santiago, the Puerto Rican national team coach who was Cotto’s head trainer for his bouts against Joshua Clottey and Manny Pacquiao. A 5-foot-10 boxer-puncher, Rosario excels in the classroom as well. He is a junior at Universidad Ana G. Méndez, where he majors in marketing and finance.
 

Chris Kongo is planning on announcing himself as one of the best Welterweights in the country when he takes on Luther Clay for the WBO Global Title on the undercard of Dillian Whyte vs. Alexander Povetkin on the final week of Matchroom Fight Camp this Saturday August 22, live on Sky Sports Box Office. 

Bermondsey’s Kongo (11-0, 6 KOs), a former Team GB amateur, has found opportunities hard to come by since turning professional in August 2016, facing mostly foreign journeymen on the small hall scene, but ‘2Slick’ was finally handed a golden ticket after teaming up with Heavyweight contender Whyte earlier this year. 

Not short on confidence, the 27-year-old immediately targeted fights with Matchroom men Conor Benn and Josh Kelly, looking to propel his name to the top of the 147lbs domestic scene. Kongo is determined to avenge the hotly disputed defeat he suffered to Rio Olympian Kelly in the ABA finals in 2013, but must first deal with the in-form Clay if he is to attract the attention of the division’s bigger names. 

“I took the fight straight away,” said Kongo. “I didn’t even have to think about it. I’ve been waiting for the opportunity and it’s here now, so I’m going to take it with both hands. It has been a long time coming. I’ve come up the hard way in the sport of boxing and there’s fire in my belly. I’m going to rip the belt from him. I’m not taking any chances. I’m not leaving it to the judges. We’re going to rip the belt off the champion. Guaranteed. 

“I believe I’m coming to take the title regardless of what Luther does. I believe this is my time. When it is someone’s time, it doesn’t matter what happens, you can’t stop it. I believe this is the moment Chris Kongo is going to be announced as one of the top Welterweights in the division. I need to prove that I am the number one Welterweight in the country. I know my level. That’s why I believe I can be at the top table.

“He’s going to try and bring the pressure because he thinks I’ll be rusty due to my time out of the ring. They’re going to be in for a big shock. They will try to put pressure on me and wait until the later rounds. It’s probably the worst thing they can do. We all know what kind of shape Jim McDonnell is going to have me in. 

“We know he’s not going to try and out skill me or outbox me because he can’t do that. His greatest attributes are always coming from the front foot. If he wants to bring the pressure, trust me, we’re going to meet head on. I’m a big Welterweight. I’ll be ready for that.”

Clay vs. Kongo lands on a huge night of action that sees Dillian Whyte (27-1, 18 KOs) defend his Interim WBC Heavyweight World Title against Russia’s Alexander Povetkin (35-2-1, 24 KOs), Irish legend Katie Taylor (15-0, 6 KOs) puts her WBC, WBA, IBF, WBO and Ring Magazine Lightweight crowns on the line against Belgium’s Delfine Persoon (44-2, 18 KOs) in the biggest rematch in women’s boxing, Super-Middleweights Jack Cullen (18-2, 9 KOs) and Zak Chelli (7-1, 3 KOs) meet over eight rounds and Croatian Heavyweight contender Alen Babic (3-0, 3 KOs) steps up to face Shawndell Winters (13-3, 12 KOs) over eight rounds. 

London, UK (17 August 2020) Newark’s Chad Sugden recently suggested in an interview that the adversity he’d encountered and overcome inside boxing and kick-boxing rings plus the MMA octogen, accorded him a significant psychological edge over his Brummie co-challenger.

‘Chad says I’ve had everything my own way but that’s because I MAKE everything my own way,’ fired back the 6ft 6in high rise Pitters who remains relatively untested while racking up a perfect 13-0 slate.

‘Look, big talk is easy. I hope Mr Sugden keeps it up and I look forward to providing my response in the ring on the night. Let’s see what he’s saying after he feels my power. He ain’t ‘breaking nobody mentally’. Boxing is a completely different to kick-boxing. He’s so easy to hit.’

The 31 year old Jon Pegg managed father of one cemented this British title shot with a career-best 10 round unanimous decision over Scunthorpe strongman Dec Spelman to land the English crown last September. Alas, Covid-19 has been his only opponent over the ensuing 11 months.

‘All the stop-start was frustrating. Ideally, I’d have had my British title shot around last December,’ disclosed Shak, who was initially pitched to face Craig ‘Spider’ Richards in March.

‘But the gap won’t hinder me. I was given a boxing bag to train at my mum’s (house) so I had everything I needed bar the initial sparring.

‘I’ve recently caught up with some good rounds with (Olympic medallist and former British champion) Josh Buatsi and (15-1-1 Birmingham pro) Steed Woodall. I’ve sparred cruisers and heavies plus lighter weights and all styles. It doesn’t matter that Chad brings a different style to ‘Spider’. A true fighter can adapt to any opponent in the ring. I’m ready for every eventuality.’

While the athletic former West Bromwich Albion trainee would have entered as a marginal underdog against the world-rated Richards – only for the Crystal Palace man to withdraw – Shak shall start a prohibitive favourite over Sugden, in his quest to secure the domestic 175lb crown previously worn by the likes of Harvey, Mills, Turpin, Finnegan, Conteh, Andries, Woods, Cleverly and Bellew.

‘To be honest, I never look at the bookies odds. In my own mind, I’d have been a strong favourite over ‘Spider’ anyway,’ states Pitters who is coached by Paul ‘Soggy’ Counihan.

‘But fair play to Chad for stepping in. Like me, Chad’s from a fighting background, a fighting family. So we’ve similar stories. The respect’s there. He’s been given a big opportunity to step up but I’m confident in my ability to deal with anyone in the division.

‘I studied Chad’s draw with ‘Spider’. He did what he had to do but he’ll find Craig and me are completely different animals. Sure, Chad seems tough and strong but, at just six foot, he’d be a lot stronger down at super-middleweight. I’m coming down from cruiser, remember. I’m just too big and I bring too much. I believe I hold the advantage over Sugden in every single area.’

And with a seven-figure nationwide TV audience expected, the one-time Ultimate Boxxer winner knows the stage is set for him to sizzle to stardom.

‘Though I’ve prepared thoroughly for 12 hard solid rounds I expect to be too big, too strong,’ concludes Pitters.

‘If I perform to my full ability, I stop him. Whether the ref steps in, his dad slings in the towel or he’s flat on his back, he’ll not see the finish.’

Shakan Pitters v Chad Sugden is exclusively live on free-to-air Channel 5 this Saturday at 10pm

In association with Ladbrokes and Infinitum, Hennessy Sports will present the exciting five-fight card headlined with the highly-anticipated Shakan Pitters v Chad Sugden British Light-Heavyweight title clash, plus the comeback of Brixton cruiserweight title contender Isaac Chamberlain; Birmingham super-welterweight and Love Island star Idris Virgo; a fiery Midlands derby for the Vacant Midlands Area Welterweight title between Birmingham’s Kaisee Benjamin and Wolverhampton’s Conah Walker, and fast-rising Sevenoaks middleweight prospect Michael Hennessy Jr.
For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports

Croatia’s explosive Heavyweight contender Alen Babic will battle Shawndell Winters over eight rounds on the undercard of Dillian Whyte’s defence of his Interim WBC Heavyweight World Title against Alexander Povetkin at Matchroom Fight Camp in Brentwood, Essex, on Saturday August 22.

Babic (3-0, 3 KOs) can enhance his growing reputation as ‘The Savage’ when he faces American Winters, live on Sky Sports Box Office, as Fight Camp reaches a finale with Katie Taylor’s eagerly awaited rematch with Delfine Persoon and Whyte’s crucial clash against Povetkin.

Whyte has spent the last few weeks in punishing sparring sessions with Babic, who is yet to be extended beyond the third round in his professional career. But Winters has proven his toughness in 13 victories, with just three defeats, and he ruined the unbeaten record of Oleksandr Teslenko last September.

Babic vs. Winters lands on a huge night of action that sees Irish legend Taylor (15-0, 6 KOs) put her WBC, WBA, IBF, WBO and Ring Magazine Lightweight crowns on the line against Belgium’s Persoon (44-2, 18 KOs) in the biggest rematch in women’s boxing, Luther Clay (13-1, 5 KOs) defends his WBO Global Welterweight Title against Chris Kongo (11-0, 6 KOs) and Super-Middleweights Jack Cullen (18-2, 9 KOs) and Zak Chelli (7-1, 3 KOs) meet over eight rounds. 

David Benavidez stopped Alexis Angulo after eight-rounds of their 12-round super middleweight bout at The Mohegan Sun Hotel and Casino in Uncasville, Connecticut

Benevidez dominated Angulo and continued to hurt him with power shots until the fight was stopped following the 10th round.

The bout was to be contested for Benavdiez WBC Super Middleweight title, but Benevidez checked in 2 3/4 pounds over the 168-pound weight-limit.

Benevidez of Seattle via Phoenix is now 23-0 with 20 knockouts. Angulo, 167 1/2 lbs of Colombia is 26-2.

David Benavidez: “I felt good, man. I rate myself a solid eight. I could have done some stuff better, but overall it was a great performance. I didn’t want to go too fast, leave myself exposed for some big shots. He’s a heavy puncher. But like I said, I like to do the stuff that nobody has ever done. Nobody has ever stopped him and I’m pretty sure nobody is ever going to make him look like that again. I demolished him from round one to round 11. But hats off to him and his team. Tough guy and they’re all gentleman, all-around.

“Like I said, I was going 15 rounds in camp. Everything was going perfect. I was so disappointed and embarrassed at myself. Everything everyone said about me is true. I should be a professional and come in on weight. But this time I couldn’t do it. It’s my first time not making weight in eight years of me being professional.

“I’ve got to go back to the drawing board. The diet has to be way stricter than it is, I’m a big guy. Hopefully I get another chance to fight for the WBC title again. I’m not going to ask for another shot right away. If they want to give it to me, good. If not, I don’t mind going to the back of the line and starting my way back up from the bottom.

“I want to get all these fights before I go up. I have to be even more dedicated than I already was. I felt like with training, as long as I didn’t miss any training session, running sessions, strength and conditioning, that I would be good. But the diet has to be way stricter. It was already good but something got messed up and, I don’t know, I couldn’t get those last pounds off.

You know, if they thought I had a discipline problem, it would have shown in the ring. Did I look tired, fatigued? Just because I missed weight one time doesn’t mean I’m not disciplined. But they’re entitled to say whatever they want because it’s true. I didn’t make weight. It’s up to me to go back to the drawing board and come back better next time.

“I really have to talk to my promoter to see what’s next. I don’t mind fighting anybody. I’ll fight anybody to get back to the spot I was. You could see by this performance tonight, I could put on a great performance against anybody. And people will pay to see that. So I have to talk to my promoters and I’m probably going to go right back into training camp to make sure I don’t miss weight.

“My baby boy comes in two weeks so I can’t wait to go be with my girlfriend and talk to my boy in my girlfriend’s stomach. In two weeks I’m going to be a father.” 

Romero Decisions Marinez to win Interim Lightweight Title

Rolando Romero won the WBA Interim Lightweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Jackson Marinez in a battle of undefeated fighters.

Romero was loading up for power shots all night, and it was Marinez who seemed to be landing more consistency all night.

In round nine, Romero was cut over his left eye from a right hand from Marinez.

Marinez oulanded Romero 103-86.

Romero, 134 3/4 lbs of Las Vegas won by scores of 118-110, 116-112 and 115-113 to raise his mark to 12-0. Marinez, 135 lbs of the Domincan Republic is 19-1.

Photo Credit: Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

Attached see the Romero-Maríñez Scorecard and Stats;

Result: Romero UD over Maríñez, 115-113, 116-112, 118-110

QUOTES

Rolando Romero: “You guys say I had a bad performance. I don’t think I had a bad performance. I thought I won the fight. Regardless of everything, I’m the world champ now. I’m happy.

“He came out a little bit tougher and slicker than what I thought. But all he did was move around the entire fight. He didn’t even try to engage so it’s hard to knock out someone who doesn’t want to get knocked out or doesn’t try to engage.

“I hurt him multiple times, with body shots, with a few hooks. There was one moment I hurt him with a right hand and he pulled my head down. It was hard to finish him off because I hurt him a lot at the end of the rounds.

“Yeah [I would give him a rematch]. He didn’t do anything special.

“The other champions are still not going to fight me. I hope they get in the ring with me. Once my eye heals back up from the headbutt, I’m going to be back in the ring.” 

Jackson Maríñez: “That was pure robbery. I won the fight. I out-jabbed, out-boxed him. You could tell he didn’t think he won the fight right afterwards. It’s a robbery.”

Otto Wallin stopped Travis Kauffman in round five of their scheduled 10-round heavyweight bout.

Wallin was starting to put the pressure when Kauffman threw a left hand, and hurt his left shoulder. Later i the round, Wallin landed some flush punches as Kauffman was unable to raise his hand to defend himself, and referee Michael Ortega stopped the bout at 2:32

Wallin, 241 3/4 lbs of New York via Sweden is 21-1 with 14 knockouts. Kauffman, 234 1/4 lbs or Reading, PA is 32-4.

Otto Wallin: “No I didn’t anything from my COVID sickness. I’m sorry to everyone who lost to COVID.

“I was breaking him down. I had a lot left. Too bad he hurt his shoulder in the end. But I was breaking him and hitting him with good clean shots.

Next, I wanna go back to New York and relax a little bit. I’ve been training for a long time now. So I want to relax a little bit and hopefully I can fight by the end of the year.”

Travis Kauffman: “I tore my left labrum getting ready for the [Luis] Ortiz fight. Like a dummy I waited like five months to have surgery on it after the Ortiz fight. So I started feeling better and was going to do a tune-up fight in March, but then COVID happened. This opportunity came up and I didn’t want to pass it up and I felt good. In the first round I hurt it. I felt it, but then it went away and I thought maybe it’s just my mind and it went away. Then in the fifth round I heard it and that was it. It was torn again.

“I’m done. I’m retiring. I have kids. I’ve been doing this a long time.”

Livinha Souza won a unanimous decision over Ashley Yoder in a strawweight fight.

Souza, 115.5 lbs of Brazil won by scores of 30-27 and 29-28 twice and is now 14-2. Yoder, 115.5 lbs of Temecula, CA is 7-6.

Chris Daukaus stopped Parker Porter in the 1st round of their heavyweight bout.

Daukaus dropped Porter in the middle of the round. Porter was able to get up, but he ate a hard right hand and vicious kick as he dropped to the canvas. One ground punch later, referee Herb Dean stopped the bout at 4:28.

Daukaus, 241 lbs of Philadelphia is 9-3. Porter, 264.5 lbs of West Hartford, CT is 10-6.

In round one, Daukaus was cut over his left eye.

Kai Kamaka won a unanimous decision over Tony Kelley in a featherweight fight.

In round three, Kamaka was bleeding from his nose.

Kamaka, 145.5 lbs of Pear City, HI won by scores of 29-28 on all cards, and is now 8-2. Kelley, 145.5 lbs of Shreveport, LA is 6-2.

Cecilia Brækhus can become a record breaker tonight against Jessica McCaskill, and the undisputed World Welterweight champion has questioned whether her challenger has the goods to rip the titles from her on the streets of downtown Tulsa, Oklahoma, live on DAZN from 7pm CT/ 8pm ET.

Brækhus (36-0 9 KOs) tackles the unified Super-Lightweight champion McCaskill (8-2 3 KOs) and the Norwegian champion holds a significant advantage in experience over her rival, with 36 pro fights, 284 rounds and 25 World title fights under her belt against McCaskill’s 10 fights and 61 rounds in the paid ranks, with the Chicagoan entering just her fifth World title contest.

Both fighters know that victory could set up a monster showdown with the winner of next weekend’s rematch between Katie Taylor and Delfine Persoon at Matchroom’s Essex HQ, live on DAZN, and the clash tonight follows hot on the heels of two epic battles for women’s boxing in promoter Eddie Hearn’s backyard, with Terri Harper and Natasha Jonas’ thrilling draw in week two in the first ever World title fight between two Britons and then Rachel Ball edging out Shannon Courtenay over eight breathless rounds last night – and now Brækhus and McCaskill pick up the gauntlet Stateside in a battle that promises fireworks in the street.

“Jessica is hungry, she has fewer fights than me but she’s younger and ambitions and been in there with some of the best,” said Brækhus. “She’s known for her work tech and grit, so it’s a good challenge for me. I don’t look at her flaws so much. She’s strong, she has good technique, she has taken major leaps in the last years and fights, so she’s a great fighter but I am just better than her all around. 

“We offered a fight to her before, but she didn’t feel that she was ready which is totally understandable, but she is now. Maybe this time would make her more prepared for a fight of this size and it’s a great time and I’m happy she’s fighting because it’s going to be a great fight. 

“She’s definitely one of the toughest fighters out there for sure, but I am at the point in my career right now where that’s how I want it and I wouldn’t want it any other way. If she has what 36 other women didn’t have, let’s see. 

“It’s a chance to put my name in the history books but I am using that as motivation in camp, but I never take anything for granted and my focus is just the fight in front of me and being the best I can be.

“I like this mini-tournament that we’re in right now, myself, Jessica, Katie and Delfine. Hopefully the winners will meet each other, it would be something to elevate women’s boxing and create a lot of hype.

“Challenges like this in Jessica, a Taylor fight in the future, I’ve been very lucky to be a part of this boom in Women’s boxing. We just needed someone to believe in women’s boxing in terms of promoting us, putting their strength behind us in promotion and giving us a platform for us to be shown. We have been waiting for this for hundreds of years, so we are not going to say no to a fight. We are tough because of what you go through as a female in this sport.”

Brækhus-McCaskill tops the bill on a massive night of action in the unique setting of the downtown Tulsa streets as Matchroom return Stateside.

Rising Super-Welterweight Israil Madrimov (5-0 5 KOs) can close in on World title honors as he meets Eric Walker (20-2 9 KOs) in a final eliminator for the WBA World title while Madrimov’s fellow countryman ShakhramGiyasov will now face Wiston Campos (31-7-6 19 KOs) after second replacement opponent Rey Perez was ruled out following original opponent Francisco Rojo being forced out of the bout after testing positive for COVID-19 during his training camp in his home city and a trio of young talents complete the card in Nikita Ababiy (8-0 6 KOs), Raymond Ford (5-0 2 KOs) and the debut of amateur star Marc Castro.

Carl Frampton tuned up for a Fall title shot with a 7th round stoppage over Darren Traynor in a lightweight bout at York Hall in London, England,

In round six, Frampton dropped Traynor with a hard left to the body. In round seven, He landed another left to the body, and Traynor waved No-Mas and the fight was over.

Frampton, 134.4 lbs of Belfast, Ireland will now fight Jamel Herring (should Herring be successful on September 5th against Jonathan Oquend) with a record of 28-2 with 16 knockouts. Traynor, 134 1/4 lbs of Scotland is 16-4.

Said Frampton, “I’m happy to get the win, obviously. Far from my best, but I suppose people talk about rounds. I don’t think it’s going to harm me doing the rounds. If I had the chance to take him out in the first round, I would’ve done that.

“It was a better opponent for Herring than the original opponent because I think he was about my height, maybe even a little bit shorter. Darren isn’t a southpaw, but the dimensions are similar. I know I need to be a lot better for Herring. It’s good to get the rounds done. My hands are fine. No issues there. Onward and upward.”

Conlan stops Takoucht in 10th

Michael Conlan remained undefeated by stopping former world title challenger Sofiane Takoucht in the 10th and final round of their featherweight bout.

In round four, Conlan was deducted a point for a low blow. In round five, he was deducted another point for a low blow.

In round 10, Conlan landed a hard combination that hurt Takoucht. Conlan drove him to the ropes and the fight was stopped.

Conlan, 126.25 lbs of Belfast is 14-0 with eight knockouts. Takoucht, 126.6 lbs of France is 35-5.

Sharp Decisions Ofori

Archie Sharp barley remained undefeated by winning a decision over Jeff Ofori in a lightweight bout.

Ofori out-landed Sharp 124-112.

Sharp, 133 lbs of Wailing win by a 96-95 score and is now 19-0. Ofori, 131.1 lbs of London is 10-3-1.

EARLY RESULTS FROM LONDON

Troy Williamson won a hard-fought 10-round unanimous decision over Harry Scarf in a junior middleweight bout.

Williams, 152.8 lbs won by scores of 97-94, 96-94 and 96-95 and is now 15-0-1. Scarf, 153.3 lbs is 8-2.

Paddy Donovan destroyed an overmatched Des Newton in the 1st round of their scheduled six-round welterweight bout

Donovan dropped Newton in the first 30 seconds with a left hand. Donovan finished thing with two massive body shots, with the latter being a left right to the gut that put Newton down and in a lot of pain and the fight was stopped.

Donovan, 146.5 lbs is 4-0 with three knockouts. Newton, 149.3 lbs is 8-16.

Saturday, August 15, 2020 (New York, NY)

As JOE SMITH JR.’s (Long Island, NY 25-3 20KO’s) WBO Light Heavyweight World Championship Title Eliminator against ELEIDER “STORM” ALVAREZ (25-1 13KO’s) comes roaring around the corner on August 22, a unique fight camp comes to a close. Gyms that were once filled with echoing punches on the heavy bag, the clicking of a jump ropes on the floor and the conversation of stories from boxing past, now remain in a deafening silence.

Regardless of the current COVID world, when the phone rings, Long Island’s Common Man, Joe Smith Jr., answers. Come fight night the goal remains the same for Joe Smith Jr., “I just want to keep it going,” he said, ” I got to put on a great show every time I’m in there, so I can have more and more people recognize me.”

Fighters, who are often characterized as creatures of habit, have dealt with this “new normal” in different ways. For Smith Jr., it was a change he recognized, but something he knew he must embrace and make ‘common’, “It was different but as far as training goes, when your training you’re not really around people going out and doing things, so the last two months haven’t made a big difference because I would separate myself from everyone normally.”

Smith Jr. will be returning for his second consecutive bout on ESPN (this time on ESPN+), where he was last in action this past January, defeating then #3 world rated light heavyweight JESSE HART (then 26-2 21KO’s) in classic upset fashion. Smith believes it’s his duty as a fighter to to bring live sporting entertainment into the homes of millions who have otherwise been in a sport drought, “Boxing has been carrying the sports world. We have to make sure if we have a fight coming up that we stay in quarantine to not mess anything up and be able to get in there to put on a show for the fans.”

After tuning in to the ESPN boxing summer series, Smith Jr. says the circumstances will not faze him come fight night, “I have watched a few fights on ESPN. It’s definitely different, but boxing is a lonely sport, when you’re training it’s only you and your trainer, that’s it.”

Alvarez-Smith Jr. is promoted by Top Rank in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing, and Group Yvon Michel. The WBO Title Eliminator is set to take place August 22, live from The Bubble at MGM Grand, in Las Vegas, on ESPN +.

Ricardo Espinoza won a 10-round unanimous decision over Brandon Valdes in a super bantamweight contest at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida.

Espinoza, 122 lbs won by scores of 98-92, 97-93 and 99-91 and is now 25-3. Valdes, 121 3/4 lbs is 13-1.

Las Vegas – The fourth season of the hit show Dana White’s Contender Series continues with Episode 3, featuring a lineup of rising athletes looking to make their dreams come true by impressing UFC President Dana White and earning a spot on the UFC roster.

The third episode of season four takes place on Tuesday, August 18 at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT, with all five bouts streaming exclusively on ESPN+ in the US.

ESPN+ is available through the ESPN.com, ESPNPlus.com or the ESPN App on all major mobile and connected TV devices and platforms, including Amazon Fire, Apple, Android, Chromecast, PS4, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, X Box One and more. Fans can sign up for $4.99 per month or $49.99 per year, with no contract required.

To support your coverage, please find the download link to the season four sizzle reels here and here. In addition, please find the download link for the season four athlete feature here, which highlights some of the participating athletes, their backgrounds and what competing on Dana White’s Contender Series means to them.

Season 4, Episode 3 – Confirmed Bouts:

Welterweight

Louis Cosce vs. Victor Reyna

Women’s Strawweight

Cheyanne Buys vs. Hilarie Rose

Welterweight

Orion Cosce vs. Matt Dixon

Heavyweight

Josh Parisian vs. Chad Johnson

Lightweight

Kevin Syler vs. Ken Cross

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

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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.

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.

About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the leading direct-to-consumer 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 through offering fans thousands of live 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 $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) through ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or the ESPN App (on mobile and connected devices). It is also available as part of a bundle offer that gives subscribers access to Disney+, Hulu (ad-supported), and ESPN+ — all for just $12.99/month

First bell: 7pm CT/ 8pm ET – live on DAZN
 
6 x 3 mins Featherweight Bout 
 
Raymond Ford: 126.8lbs
 
Eric Manriquez: 126.6lbs.
 
Followed by
 
10 x 3 mins Super Lightweight Bout (142lbs catchweight) 
 
Shakhram Giyasov: 141.4lbs.
 
Wiston Campos: 141.4lbs.
 
Followed by
 
6 x 3 mins Middleweight Bout 
 
Nikita Ababiy: 160.2 lbs.
 
Jarvis Williams:159.4 lbs.
 
Followed by
 
10 x 3 mins WBA World Super Welterweight final eliminator 
 
Israil Madrimov: 153.6 lbs.
 
Eric Walker: 153.2 lbs.
 
Followed by
 
10 x 2 mins Undisputed World Welterweight Title 
 
Cecilia Brækhus: 145 lbs.
 
Jessica McCaskill: 144.4 lbs.

Friday, August 14, 2020 (New York, NY)

An “0” must go on August 22 when undefeated East Hartford, Connecticut’s, “ACTION” ANTHONY LAUREANO (13-0 4KO’s) takes on Hoboken, New Jersey’s, JULIAN “HAMMER HANDS” RODRIGUEZ (19-0 12KO’s) in a scheduled 10-round super lightweight bout at The Bubble inside of MGM Grand in Las Vegas. The bout is set to take place on the undercard of the highly anticipated WBO World Title Eliminator between Long Island’s Common Man and #4 world rated (WBO) light heavyweight, JOE “THE BEAST” SMITH JR. (25-3 20KO’s) and #3 world (WBO) rated light heavyweight, ELEIDER “STORM” ALVAREZ (25-1 13KO’s). Laureano, like Smith Jr., fights under the Star Boxing banner.

Laureano prides himself on his humble beginnings, but don’t allow his constant smile to fool you, he comes to fight. “Action” Anthony rose the ranks of the New England amateur circuit, culminated by adding back to back Open Western Massachusetts Golden Glove Championship (’15, ’16), as well as a 2016 New England Golden Gloves Championship, to his mantle. Turning pro in September of 2016, Laureano has not looked back, ripping off 13 consecutive wins. As a pro Laureano earned the ABO Continental America’s super lightweight title, successfully defending the belt three-times, and was named 2018 Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame Fighter of the Year. This will be the biggest fight of Laureano’s career which has been nurtured by Star Boxing, developing him into a local fan favorite.

Laureano believes it’s his turn to shine, “I want to show the world that faith moves mountains. I want to show everyone my heart and my grit. I will receive my blessing. You know you will see Action! I’m coming for mine! God is always good!”

NATE TORRES, Manager and Trainer of Laureano, commented, “We are very grateful for the opportunity to be fighting on such a great card. Anthony is prepared to put on a great show. We know Julian is a very good fighter and we have prepared as such. Our team is just as confident as they are. We are coming to win! It will be a great fight!”

Julian Rodriguez is considered one of the top prospects in the country. He amassed over 230 amateur fights winning the 2013 National Golden Gloves. At the age of 25, Rodriguez is a 6-year professional with skillset to back up his perfect record. After a 22-month layoff due to a shoulder injury, Rodriguez returned with vengeance in 2019, going 3-0 with two wins coming by way of knockout. Most recently Rodriguez laced them up at Madison Square Garden on the undercard of the Commey-Lopez IBF World title fight, where he dominated an 8-round decision over Manuel Mendez (80-71 x2, 79-72).

Star Boxing CEO, JOE DEGUARDIA, who has developed Laureano into a local fan favorite stated: “Anthony is truly an exciting warrior with a relentless style. He and his team have been seeking a big breakout fight and I am happy to give him this opportunity. Whenever Anthony is in the ring, there is guaranteed action and, considering Julian is a hard-hitting top prospect, I expect a thriller when they clash on August 22.”

WATCH:
Catch up with ANTHONY LAUREANO’S past bouts ahead of #RodriguezLaureano:
Laureano vs Brian Jones | Catskills Clash II | September 14, 2019
Laureano vs Dieumerci Nzau | Catskills Clash I | June 28, 2019
Laureano vs Ronald Rivas | Slugfest At the Sun | January 26, 2019

Felix Cash remained undefeated by stopping former world title challenger Jason Welborn in round five of a scheduled 12-round middleweight bout in Essex, England

In round five, Cash dropped Welborn with a right to the head. About 45 seconds later, Cash ended things when he landed another right to the head that put Welborn down again, and the fight was stopped at 2:48.

Cash, 160 lbs of Wokingham is 13-0 with nine knockouts. Welborn, 159 lbs of Tividale is 24-9.

“It was a good performance,” said Cash. “It took me a round or a round and a half to get my distance on him and see where he was at and see his reactions. I went to work on him. It was a decent enough performance. He wanted me to stand there and start trading with him, but then you’re giving him a chance aren’t you. I took him on the jab, broke him down, down to the body and up to the head.

“I broke him down nice and slowly. Round by round he was getting weaker and getting tired. I knew it was just a matter of time before I got him out of there. He’s a tough lad. There was no point in rushing it and trying to get him out of there early. What a stage to be on. It was unbelievable. The week has been unbelievable. I’ve really enjoyed it. Overall it was a good week. I’m 27 and I’m in the prime of my life. I’m ready for the step ups now. The ring walk was something else! Topping the bill was a bit of history for me.”

Barrett Stops Donovan in 8!

Zelfa Barrett stopped previously undefeated Eric Donovan in round eight of their scheduled 10-round super featherweight bout.

In round seven, Barrett dropped Donovan with a huge left hook to the chin.. Later in the round, Barrett dropped Donovan again after absorbing a hard left-right-left combination. In round eight, Barrett landed another booming left hook hat put Donovan on his back, and the fight was stopped at 1:35.

Barrett, 129.9 lbs of Manchester is now 24-1 with 15 knockouts. Donovan, 129.9 lbs of Altay is 12-1.

“He was catching me with some big shots,” said Barrett. “I was just trying to get my rhythm at first. He was pinging me and catching me with some good quality shots and then I could hear my Uncle Pat say, ‘change up the game plan and put it on him now’. Block, throw and look where the openings are. I pulled it out of the bag. This is what champions do, they find something and pull it out of the bag.

“I had to find it in the bag because he was hitting me with some good shots and I thought, ‘you know what, I’m not letting this guy beat me’. It was just war mode. I timed it perfectly and I couldn’t have asked for anything else. I caught him. Credit to Eric Donovan. I’ve just defeated an undefeated fighter. As soon as I put him down I thought, ‘that’s it, I’m getting you out of here’. He’s a good fighter but I’m going to pull myself together, go back to the drawing board and do what I’ve got to do.

“I knew I was going to catch him, it was just a matter of time. I didn’t want it to be round nine because that would have been too late. I done what I had to do. In myself as a fighter I’m a bit disappointed with my performance. He was catching me a lot but I done what I had to do. I’ve just shown character. I’ve shown I’m a fighter.”

Rachel Ball won a eight-round decision over previously undefeated Shannon Courtnay in a super bantamweight bout.

Ball dropped Courtney with a left hook to the chin in the opening round.

Ball had some swelling under her left eye in round seven, but she was able to hold on for the victory by a 77-75 score.

Ball, 123.8 lbs of Aldridge is 6-1. Courtenay, 126.9 lbs of Watford is 5-1.

“I’m just so happy,” an emotional Ball told Sky Sports. “This means everything to me. It was a closer fight than I would have wanted it to be, but I got the win and I want to move on to big things. I want Eddie to sign me up and put me in front of whoever. I want to be at the top and I want to be at the World Title level and get a World Title. That’s where I want to be more than anything.

“To be honest, when I was in the corner and I threw the shot, she dazed me a bit so I didn’t know what had hit her. I thought, ‘fantastic, this fight isn’t going to last’. She does hit hard. There is a reason why she has been knocking these girls out. I’m happy I got through the fight.

“I’m pleased with myself. I knew I landed the shots because I can feel it in my knuckles. I was just glad to get through it. I don’t think I used all of my technical ability to be honest, but it’s all progress isn’t it. I’ve just got to get back to the gym and progress even further now.”

Kieron Conway won a 10-round unanimus decision over Navid Mansouri in a super welterweight bout.

Conway had Mansouri hurt several times during the bout, and was close to getting the stoppage in round seven.

Conway, 153.9 lbs of Northampton won by scores of 99-92 and 98-92 twice and is now 15-1-1. Mansouri, 153.4 lbs of Ritherham is 20-4-2.

“I loved it,” Conway told Matchroom Boxing afterwards. “Apart from having no crowd, I think the whole setup is how all boxing shows should be. The week has been really nice. It’s been really good to be around. Everything just ran so smoothly. Out there it’s unbelievable. Even without thousands of fans, it’s wicked out there. I knew that he would come out fast and I knew that after a few rounds my size and my strength would come out on top. I’m a big lad now. I’m refuelled and everything. I’m big for the weight. It drains people.

“I planned to have a slower first few rounds. The whole fight went exactly how I’d planned, except it went ten rounds. He did really well to get through it to be fair. I was landing a lot of shots with a lot of spite behind them. It was good. I didn’t expect the flicky jab, I expected him to come for me a bit more and really try and stick it on me a bit more. After a few rounds I knew he’d starting messing, trying to smother me because I am stronger than I look.

“As soon as people realise I’m not going anywhere, they start holding. He’s highly-rated and he’s had a few title fights. He had the English title for a long time. Hopefully it pushed me a littler more up there. For my style, I think my size really helps. Over the years a lot of people have said I’m behind them, and then all of a sudden they’re behind me. I’m 24-years-old. Whether it’s now or later, I’m coming.”

John Docherty remained undefeated by stopping Anthony Fox in round seven of a scheduled eight-round super middleweight bout.

In round three, Docherty dropped Fox with a short right hook.

In round seven, Docherty hurt Fox badly with a hard three punch combination. Docherty followed that up with a flurry if punches and referee Howard Foster rescued Fox from further damage at 1:32.

Docherty, 1669.9 lbs of Montrose is 9-0 with seven knockouts. Fox, 166.4 lbs of Westbury is 8-13-4.

“I’m over the moon to have forced the stoppage,” said Docherty afterwards. “I started off a bit slow and I was throwing up my chin in the air, but I got there in the end. I felt him tiring in there in the third and fourth rounds with my body shots, and his power started to go. He was a lot stronger than I thought, and a lot more heavy-handed, but I got the job done.

“I thought he was going to come at me and have a go as he did in his last fight. I think he felt the power quite early on and then he was on the back foot. He was a lot better than I expected. I want titles now. The journeymen, I’m passed them already and my team knows that. Any title next. A British Title Eliminator or a Intercontinental Title, anything. I’d probably give myself an eight out of ten tonight.”

UNCASVILLE, Conn. – August 14, 2020 – WBC Super Middleweight World Champion David Benavidez missed weight today at the official weigh-in for Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader, losing his world title belt on the scale. Benavidez will face world title challenger Alexis Angulo in the main event as planned. Angulo can earn the WBC 168-pound title with a win.  All other fighters on the card made weight.  Final weights, photos and officials are below.

Complete weigh-in coverage provided by MORNING KOMBAT with hosts Luke Thomas and Brian Campbell including a live interview with Benavidez immediately following the weigh-in, is available here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eyNuvsx1hE4&feature=youtu.be.

Photos from Friday’s official weigh in: HERE Credit: Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

WBC Super Middleweight World Championship – 12 Rounds

David Benavidez – 170¾  lbs.

Alexis Angulo – 167½ lbs.

Referee: John Callas (West Hartford (Union, N.J.); Judges: John McKaie (Flushing, N.Y.), Chris Migliore (Las Vegas), Don Ackerman (West Oneida, N.Y.)

WBA Lightweight Interim Title – 12 Rounds

Rolando Romero – 134¾ lbs.

Jackson Marinez – 135 lbs.

Referee: Harvey Dock-Union (Union, N.J.); Judges: Glenn Feldman (Avon, Conn.), Frank Lombardi (Brookfield, Conn.), Don Trella (Noank, Conn.)

Heavyweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Otto Wallin – 241¾ lbs.

Travis Kauffman – 234¼ lbs.

Referee: Michael Ortega (East Haven, Conn.); Judges: John McKaie (Flushing, N.Y.), Chris Migliore (Las Vegas), Don Trella (Noank, Conn.)

David Benavidez on losing his world title on the scale:

“I’m very disappointed. This is obviously my first time missing weight. Just very disappointed to lose the title on the scale, but I’m still going to win the fight tomorrow. I put the blame on myself. It’s just the last three pounds wouldn’t come off. Maybe not having the proper things I needed like no sauna. I was only able to go to the gym an hour a day since I got here. It’s just a couple of different things, but I still have a job to do tomorrow. Maybe later the opportunity will present itself, but I still have a fight to win.

“I didn’t think this all the way through. Coming in I thought I would have access to more, but I didn’t. Maybe this is a message to all the other fighters who have a little bit of trouble with their weight. It’s going to be hard to make the weight if you already have trouble. If you need a couple extra things like the gym or the sauna, you better come into the bubble already on weight. Because it’s very hard.”

*  *  *

Saturday’s fights are presented by Premier Boxing Champions and promoted by TGB Promotions and Mayweather Promotions. The main event is promoted in association with Sampson Boxing and the Wallin-Kauffman bout is promoted in association with Salita Promotions and Kings Promotions.

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

https://www.facebook.com/MatchroomBoxing/videos/609304083105140/

ORANGE, Calif. (August 14, 2020) – Thompson Boxing Promotions is pleased to present their second 3.2.1 Boxing event since the COVID-19 pandemic, featuring three action-packed bouts on Sunday, September 6, 2020. The free stream will air live on the Thompson Boxing Promotions website (www.thompsonboxing.com), as well as their Facebook and YouTube pages.

3.2.1. Boxing will take place at the Omega Products International
Event Center in Corona, CA, and will start at 4:00 p.m. PT / 7:00 p.m. ET. 3.2.1 Boxing is a non-audience show.

In the 8-round main event, welterweight Louie Lopez (8-0-1, 4 KOs), of Corona, Ca will do battle with Saul “Avatar” Bustos (12-0-1, 7 KOs), who fights out of Los Angeles, CA, in a match-up of two unbeaten prospects with one looking to become a contender.

Lopez, who is coached by Henry Sanchez, will be looking to make a statement as will Bustos. Lopez has faced some good opposition so far in his career but is also looking to shake off the ill-feelings of a draw he had against Demarcus Layton, two fights ago. Bustos is looking to carry the momentum from his last fight, a TKO against Ariel Vasquez.

In the 6-round co-feature, the very talented George “El Yuyu” Acosta (9-1, 1 KO), of Whitter, Ca, will face Teodoro “El Regalo” Alonso (3-2) of Los Angeles, CA, in a bout that is sure to be fan friendly.

The opening 6-round super flyweight bout sees Mario Hernandez (10-1-1, 3 KOs) of Santa Ana, CA, against Manny “Meny” Flores (8-0, 5 KOs), in a fight that will dictate where both fighters careers will go from here.

“We returned with our first online PPV with Michael Dutchover, Ruben Torres and Arnold Dinong and it was a great show that got fantastic feedback,” said promoter Ken Thompson. “We are now looking to move forward and put on more great entertaining shows for fight fans across the country. Our goal is to give the fans competitive high-quality fights while adhering to the California guidelines for safety during these trying times.”

“We’re glad to be back with our second edition of 3.2.1. Boxing,” said Alex Camponovo, Thompson Boxing’s general manager and creator of 3.2.1 Boxing. “All of these bouts will provide good action, and stern tests for each fighter as anything could happen on fight night. A lot is on the line for these guys as they have had a long lay-off and now are in fights that could elevate their careers quickly.”

Beto Duran will operate as the blow-by-blow commentator with expert commentary by Dough Fisher, while Jessica Rosales will serve as the onsite ringside reporter.

3.2.1 Boxing is sponsored by Makita: Rule the Outdoors and Henry-Fotifiber: Building Confidence, Omega Products International, and Thompson Building Materials.

For more information, regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com. You can also follow the conversation on social media, please use #321Boxing and #ThompsonBoxing.

Please check our Facebook Page, watch our YouTube channel on Thompson Boxing TV, and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @ThompsonBoxing.

(ESPN & ESPN Deportes, 4 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. PT)

    •     Carl Frampton 134.4 lbs vs. Darren Traynor 134.25 lbs 
(Lightweight — 10 Rounds)

•    Michael Conlan 126.25 lbs vs. Sofiane Takoucht 126.6 lbs 
(Featherweight — 10 Rounds)

•    Archie Sharp 133 lbs vs. Jeff Ofori 131.1 lbs 
(Lightweight— 10 Rounds)

(ESPN+, 2:30 p.m. ET / 11:30 a.m. PT)

•    Troy Williamson 152.8 lbs vs. Harry Scarff 153.3 lbs 
(Williamson’s IBF European Junior Middleweight title— 10 Rounds)

•    Paddy Donovan 146.5 lbs vs. Des Newton 149.3 lbs 
(Welterweight — 6 Rounds)

Friday, August 14, 2020 (New York, NY)

Standout Irish amateur TONY BROWNE is set to go pro after signing a promotional agreement with Hall of Fame Promoter JOE DEGUARDIA and Star Boxing.

Star Boxing adds to its talented stable another young Irish prospect after announcing late last week the signing of undefeated Irish super lightweight RYAN O’ROURKE (3-0).

The move ends the decorated amateur chapter of Browne’s career who was listed at #4 on Ireland’s amateur pound for pound list. Browne represented Ireland internationally, medaling at The Chemistry Cup (World Cup), the Eindhoven Box Cup and a slew of several Irish National Titles.

While Browne who will be campaigning at super middleweight, has had no shortage of professional experience having sparred around the world with some of the best to do it, including Chris Eubank Jr., in his preparation for his bout against James DeGale.

Browne currently trains with Steven O’ Rourke in Inchicore alongside his now stablemate, Ryan O’Rourke. Browne is managed by Conor Slater of Slater Consulting. Browne will look to make his pro-debut closer to home in the coming months, with a fight date likely to be revealed in the coming weeks.

Joe DeGuardia of Star Boxing commented, “It is great to welcome Tony to the team. He is one of the most exciting amateurs in world boxing and his pedigree speaks for itself. We believe he is well suited to the pro game and I look forward to seeing him progress.”

Tony Browne added, “I’m delighted to have finally turned pro. This has been a dream of mine for a very long time, and this opportunity that has presented itself is one I had to grab with both hands. People have always said I’m suited for the pro game, so I’m raring to show that I am. A big thanks to my team Steven and Conor and of course to Joe and everyone at Star Boxing for this amazing opportunity. I’m looking forward to getting started. I haven’t turned pro just to make up the numbers or to win just a couple of belts, I want to be world champion and leave a legacy. That’s my goal.”