Vergil Ortiz Jr. kept his perfect knockout record intact as he stopped Samuel Vargas in round seven of their scheduled 10-round welterweight bout at The Fantasy Springs Resort in Indio, California.

In round two, Vargas started to bleed over his right eye.

Ortiz continued to land more power punches with each round. The fight became an onslaught for Ortiz as he started pounding away at Vargas in round six. In round seven, it was target practice for Ortiz as he was all over Vargas he landed booming flurries until referee Jack Reiss stopped the bout at 2:58.

Ortiz, 147 lbs of Grand Prairie, TX is 15-0 with 15 knockouts. Vargas, 146.6 lbs of Bogota, COL is 31-6-2.

“I didn’t really notice fighting with no fans. I’m so focused on the fight. With or without fans is how we spar, so didn’t make a difference. 

“I hit him to the body a lot. I don’t know how he didn’t go down. He was hurt the entire time – I asked him. I knew it was time to take him out. If it went to eight rounds he would have been hurt worse. When I take rounds off like that I try to get used to timing, and miss some shots. 

“I would like to fight Danny Garcia or Keith Thurman. They’re good opponents I can beat. I want to take risks. I’m not here to take easy fights. I’m in the hardest division in boxing, so when I win a title it will mean a lot more. 

“Against a guy like that a solid B+. He brought it out of me, hardest opponent to date. My hands took a beating punching him the whole time, so when they’re healed I’ll be back.”

Shane Mosley Jr. won an eight-round unanimous decision over Jeremy Ramos in a middleweight fight.

Mosley outlanded Ramos 209-104.

Mosley, 159.4 lbs of Pomona, CA won by scores of 80-72 twice and 79-73 and is now 16-3. Ramos, 160 lbs of Colorado Springs, CO is 11-9.

“This was a great experience. This was my first fight as a Golden Boy fighter. I’m glad I got the win and got to knock some dust off of me. It was different due to the circumstances. Ultimately, it’s still a fight. He came to win. I think it was a good performance from me, but I still have to add some more things to my game, like adding more punches to the body.”

Seniesa Estrada destroyed Miranda Adkins in seven seconds of their light flyweight bout.

Estrada jumped out of her corner and landed six booming punches to the head that knocked Adkins down and out.

Estrada, 107.8 lbs of East Los Angeles is 19-0 with eight knockouts. Adkins, 106.8 lbs of Topkea, KS is 5-1.

“It was the outcome I expected,” said Seniesa Estrada. “I give her respect for stepping into the ring with me while having a 5-0 record. If it weren’t for her, I probably wouldn’t have had an opponent tonight, so I thank her. Hopefully next time I can fight someone who is a world champion.”

“I give Adkins so much credit because she stood up and took the fight. Due to the COVID situation we tried to get current champions, former champions, and Miranda was the only one who stepped in to take the fight. I had more experience than her in the professionals and amateurs, so I let my punches go and couldn’t stop. I knew the outcome would be a knockout for sure, but didn’t know how long it would take. God Bless Adkins and hope Adkins is okay.

“I want all the champions, I’m ready for it! At 105 lbs., 108lbs., or 112 lbs. I want Anabel Ortiz who has the WBA title at 105 lbs., and Yesenia Gomez who has the WBC title at 108 lbs. I want a world champion fight. Marlen Esparza, l will give her the rematch. Let’s go!”

Hector Valdez remained perfect with eight-round unanimous decision over Josue Morales in a super bantamweight bout.

Valdez outlanded Morales 140-89.

Valdez, 121.6 lbs of Dallas, TX won by scores of 80-72 twice and 79-73 and is now 13-0. Morales, 120.6 lbs of Houston, TX is 11-12-4.

“I felt I had an OK performance,” said Hector Valdez. “I give myself a 7 out of 10. I was calm, which is good. But now I need to work on being calm and being active with my punches. Now I’m going to go back to the gym, and I hope to come back soon on another Golden Boy card.”

Evan Sanchez remained undefeated by winning a six-round unanimous decision over Issouf Kinda in a welterweight fight.

In round four, Sanchez dropped Kinda with a right hook to the top of the head.

Sanchez outlanded Kinda 43-34.

Sanchez, 147 lbs of Parlier, CA won by scores of 60-53, 59-54 and 58-55 and is now 8-0. Kinda, 144.6 lbs of Bronx, NY is 18-5.

“I felt a little rusty in there,” said Evan Sanchez. “But I’m honored to be opening up for Golden Boy.  I know a lot of people were watching. I hope to get a two-week break and come back very soon.”

Matchroom Boxing will live stream Srisaket Sor Rungvisai’s ring return against Amnat Ruenroeng on Saturday August 1st.

Ahead of our Fight Camp opener, the ten round contest from Thailand will go out across Matchroom’s YouTube channel.

Fans around the world (excluding in Thailand, Caribbean and Latin America) will be able to watch from approx 9.45am (BST) on fight day.

Rungvisai boasts two impressive victories over Roman Gonzalez in recent years, plus two close fights against Juan Francisco Estrada which went one apiece. 

Ruenroeng, a former IBF World Champion, looks to make it three wins on the bounce and put his name firmly back into title contention. 

Promoter Eddie Hearn said: “As if August 1st couldn’t get any bigger with the launch of Matchroom Fight Camp, the return of former WBC Super-Flyweight World Champion Rungvisai against former IBF 112lbs ruler Ruenroeng will now be shown live on the Matchroom YouTube channel.

“It’s a great little warm-up at 8.45 in the morning for what will be a very exciting day for the world of boxing. Next Saturday is all about the return of boxing. Fight fans will get a chance to watch a pound-for-pound star in Rungvisai before enjoying the opening night of Fight Camp.

“Juan Francisco Estrada will fight ‘Chocolatito’ next, we’re in the process of trying to make that fight, probably for October time in America. The winner of that fight will face Sor Rungvisai providing he gets through on the 1st. It’s a great little run of fights for those three and the division itself. We’re so lucky to represent those three great fighters.”

Fans are invited to subscribe to the channel ahead of the live coverage: www.youtube.com/matchroomboxing

INDIO, CALIF. (July 24, 2020): As a precautionary measure, renowned trainer Robert Garcia will not work the corner for Vergil Ortiz Jr. (15-0, 15 KOs) tonight in his bout against Samuel Vargas (31-5-2, 14 KOs) at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino and live on DAZN. In his place, Vergil Ortiz Sr. will fulfill the role of chief second.

“In my initial exam at Fantasy Springs, I tested positive for COVID-19,” said Robert Garcia. “But in my second test in Tustin, Calif., the results were negative. But, as a precaution, Golden Boy and I were informed by the CSAC that I cannot attend the event due to their regulations and based off my first test results.”

“We prepared very well for this fight against Vargas,” Garcia continued. “Basically, we had two training camps to get ready, so I know that that Ortiz Jr. will look great tonight. We have to make sure that this event is as safe as possible, so that means decisions like this have to be made. Either way, RGBA will be getting another win tonight, and pretty soon we’ll have a new world champion.”

“I commend the decision made by CSAC,” said Eric Gomez, President of Golden Boy. “We all have a responsibility to ensure that this event is safe for every single person involved. Robert Garcia has had an enormous impact in developing Vergil, so we are confident that this young star will take everything he worked on his camp and apply it in the ring. Tonight will be a memorable night for the sport as we demonstrate that good, competitive fights can be made during these difficult times if they are just done right.”

Ortiz Jr. vs. Vargas is a 12-round fight for the WBA Gold Welterweight Title presented by Golden Boy. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The event will take place Friday, July 24 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN.

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

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

Kane Baker is promising to inflict a first career defeat on Aqib Fiaz when he locks horns with the recent Matchroom signing over eight rounds in a Lightweight contest on the undercard of Terri Harper vs. Natasha Jonas on Friday August 7, live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US. 

In compiling 13 wins in 19 fights, Baker has faced top opposition, often at very short notice and on the other man’s turf. In only his fifth fight, Baker was halted by another Matchroom prospect, Conor Benn, the big-punching son of former WBC Super-Middleweight World Champion Nigel.

In his next fight, he agreed to meet heavy-handed Irish prospect Gary Cully at 24 hours’ notice and went the distance over four rounds in Belfast. Baker’s unquenchable, never-say-die spirit was rewarded last December when he outpointed unbeaten Ishmael Ellis for the Midlands Area Lightweight Title.

A granite toughness has seen Baker battle through a demanding professional baptism and the experienced 30-year-old believes he will be too big a test so early on in the career of Oldham’s Fiaz, who will be making his big debut as a Matchroom man.

“I was surprised they offered me this fight,” said Baker. “I wouldn’t fight me at the minute. No way. Definitely not. I can see why they did though. I’m a come forward fighter and I’ve got some decent names on my record. If he beats me then it’s a good name under his belt and he can progress quickly. I can see the logic behind it, but I’m going to be the biggest banana skin that they’ve ever put out there. 

“He hasn’t been past six rounds yet. I know he was a good amateur but it’s a different game in the pros. Normally I don’t know anything about my opponents, I don’t want to know, but I’ve gone the opposite way for this one because I’ve had time through lockdown to do my homework. I’ve looked into this one and this is my chance to win. 

“I don’t really watch my opponents but I’ve been told to watch him and from what I’ve seen of him, nothing really intimidates me. I’ve watched him and I’m going to keep watching him. I’m going to improve my game to beat his game. It’s a new totally different Kane Baker. I don’t think Matchroom are going to snatch me up when I beat him because I’m a bit older but he’ll come again, he’s young enough.”

Fiaz vs. Baker lands on Week 2 of Matchroom Fight Camp, Terri Harper’s (10-0, 5 KOs) defence of her WBC and IBO Super-Featherweight World Titles against British rival Natasha Jonas (9-1, 7 KOs) headlines the show, Bournemouth’s Chris Billam-Smith (10-1, 9 KOs) defends his Commonwealth Title against undefeated Cardiff man Nathan Thorley (14-0, 6 KOs), Liverpool Super-Welterweight Anthony Fowler (12-1, 9 KOs) gets his second outing of the year against Adam Harper (9-1) and Leeds Featherweight prospect Hopey Price (2-0) fights on UK soil again following his win on the huge Andy Ruiz vs. Anthony Joshua 2 show in Saudi Arabia. 

Daniel Dubois vs Joe Joyce is the biggest domestic battle of the year.

Or is it?

German Heavyweight Michael Wallisch is a man on a mission, determined to defeat Joe Joyce tomorrow night on BT Sport 1 and derail Frank Warren’s plans to stage the Dubois/Joyce card in October.

In one of the trickiest ‘tune-up’ fights in memory, Joyce meets Wallisch in the ring at BT Sport Studios tomorrow night. Before that, though, both men got the chance to stare each other down at todays weigh-in.

Alongside four cracking undercard fights, Frank Warren and Queensberry Promotions are ready to bring UK fans the second blockbuster show of a huge Summer of boxing.

Please find all weigh-in photos here

All weights below:

Louie Lynn – 124.1lbs
Monty Ogilvie –  130.7lbs

Henry Turner – 144.4lbs
Chris Adaway – 146lbs

Denzel Bentley – 158.12lbs
Mick Hall – 160.8lbs

Chris Bourke – 121lb
Ramez Mahmood – 121.10lb

Joe Joyce – 270lbs
Michael Wallisch – 261lbs

———-

Joyce vs Wallisch is live on BT Sport 1 at 7.15pm on Saturday July 25th

+++For Immediate Release+++ Calabasas, Calif. – On Thursday it was announced that former undisputed heavyweight champion Mike Tyson will return to the ring against former pound for pound king Roy Jones on September 12th. The event will be distributed via pay-per-view and will take place in Carson, California.

The undercard will also be jam packed with interesting bouts and none more exciting that the co-feature bout which pits Youtube sensation turned boxing prospect Jake Paul against former NBA star Nate Robinson.

Paul burst onto the boxing scene in January when he knocked out Ali Eson GIb. His trainer BJ Flores is happy to see his pupil in another big event.

“I am looking forward to September 12th. For Jake and Nate to be on the undercard of two of my favorite fighters in Mike Tyson and Roy Jones is a tremendous honor. I think Nate’s background makes this interesting with his NBA background as a professional athlete. Good look to him,

Flores, a former world title challenger couldn’t be more pleased with the work Paul has put in and said that the improvements he has made with be on full display in September.

“He is ready to fight right now. He has been training since February 22nd and he has been sparring twice a week. We thought this fight would happen in May or June so we have been ready and the couple extra months has only been beneficial,” said Flores.

“Jake is real calm and real chill, real relaxed. He is totally focused and ready to go. He is he first one in the gym and the last one to leave. You can see the improvement and progress. He is very dedicated and very focused and that makes my job very easy. I only have to tell him things one time.”

While Paul is a relative newcomer to the sport, Robinson is even more of a novice after dedicating most of his life to perfecting his craft as a basketball player.

Flores said that the plan is to make an example out of Robinson for other athletes who are thinking of transitioning to the squared circle.after their career in their previous sport has ended.

“Boxing is a very tough sport to learn at the age of 34. I have a lot of respect for him but he is going to see first hand why professional athletes should never retire and then go to professional boxing,” said Flores.

As for Paul, all of his focus is on the task at hand.

“Look, I am just ready to go and do my job,” said Paul

London, UK (24 July 2020) Promoter Mick Hennessy oversees the long-awaited return of Championship Boxing to UK free-to-view TV screens exclusively LIVE on Channel 5 on Saturday 22nd August and has added a further title fight to the show.

The five-fight card, presented by Hennessy Sports in association with Ladbrokes, Infinitum and Numan, will be staged behind-closed doors at a purpose built production studio and is headlined with the long-awaited battle for the Vacant British Light-Heavyweight title between Shakan Pitters and Chad Sugden.

Hennessy is delighted to bolster the big fight-night with a sizzling Midlands derby that pits Birmingham’s Kaicee Benjamin and Wolverhampton’s Conah Walker in a fiery clash for the Vacant Midlands Area Welterweight Title with plenty of pride and honour at stake.

All-action Benjamin (10-0-1, 2 KO’s), the former Midlands Area Champion, is in fine recent form having made two defences of the title and seen off three unbeaten fighters (Shaquille Day, Levi Ferguson and Alex Fearon) in his last four fights.

Rival Walker (7-0-1, 2 KO’s) will be looking to cause an upset and beat the favourite Benjamin to prove that he is the real deal. The former standout amateur took the unbeaten record of Nathan Bendon and then forced then unbeaten Ohio Kain Iremiren to a draw and is pumped up for the challenge against Benjamin.

In addition to the Pitters-Sugden and Benjamin-Walker showdowns, an action-packed card also features the highly anticipated return of Brixton cruiserweight title contender Isaac Chamberlain (10-1-0, 4 KO’s) as he targets titles on his comeback, Birmingham super-welterweight talent and Love Island star Idris Virgo (5-0-1) and fast-rising Sevenoaks middleweight prospect Michael Hennessy Jr (3-0-1).

Hennessy said, “It’s fast building momentum towards an exciting and long-awaited return for British boxing on the free-to-air TV platform Channel 5 on August 22nd. We’ve got a fantastic main-event in place with the British Light-Heavyweight title showdown between Shakan and Chad and that is now complimented with a Midlands Area title clash between Kaicee and Conah. Not only that, but we have the exciting return of cruiserweight star Isaac who’s on the road back towards challenging for titles, plus reality TV star Idris and young prospect Michael complete the card. This is a statement that our sport is finally back and where it belongs on the big-stage on free-to-air Channel 5 for everyone to watch without having to pay.”

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

Las Vegas – UFC^® returns to Las Vegas with a series of action-packed cards every Saturday night in August, kicking off with a clash of top middleweight contenders as No. 8 Derek Brunson looks to hand No. 9 Edmen Shahbazyan his first professional loss.

The remaining cards will be announced at a later date. All events will be closed to the public and will be produced with only essential personnel in attendance pursuant to a Health, Safety and Operations plan approved by the Nevada Athletic Commission.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT ON ESPN+^®: BRUNSON vs. SHAHBAZYAN will take place Saturday, August 1 at UFC Apex in Las Vegas with all fights carried exclusively on ESPN+ in English and Spanish. The main card begins at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, with the prelims kicking off at 6 p.m. ET / 3 p.m. PT.

A staple of the middleweight top 10, Brunson (20-7, fighting out of Wilmington, N.C.) returns to action intending to once again stop the ascent of another fast-rising prospect. Despite his All-American wrestling background, Brunson has developed into one of the most explosive strikers in the division with knockout wins over Lyoto Machida, Uriah Hall and Sam Alvey. He now looks to extend his current win streak and work his way back towards the top five by becoming the first person to defeat Shahbazyan.

One of the youngest athletes on the entire UFC roster, Shahbazyan, 22 (11-0, fighting out of Glendale, Calif.) has quickly developed into the middleweight division’s top prospect. Hailing from the same gym as former UFC women’s bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey, Shahbazyan has shown incredible skills during his young MMA career by finishing all but one of his victories in the first round, including wins over Brad Tavares, Jack Marshman and Charles Byrd. He now takes a step up in competition and looks to prove that the hype around him is deserved with his most critical victory yet.

Additional bouts on the card include:

·         A critical bout in the women’s flyweight division sees No. 3 ranked contender Joanne Calderwood (14-4, fighting out of Glasgow, Scotland) step up on short notice to take on No. 6 ranked Jennifer Maia (17-6-1, fighting out of Curitiba, State of Paraná, Brazil)

• In an exciting welterweight bout, No. 12 ranked contender Vicente Luque (19-7-1, fighting out of Brasilia, Brazil) looks to defend his spot in the rankings against rising prospect Randy Brown (12-3, fighting out of Queens, N.Y.)
• In an thrilling lightweight rematch, Lando Vannata (11-4-2, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.) and Bobby Green (25-10-1, fighting out of Fontana, Calif.) look to replicate their first Fight of the Night performance
• Light heavyweight veterans meet when veteran Ed Herman (26-14 1 NC, fighting out of Portland, Ore.) meets Gerald Meerschaert (30-13, fighting out of Milaukee, Wisc.) on short notice
• Kevin Holland (18-5, fighting out of Fort Worth, Texas) and Trevin Giles (12-2, fighting out of Houston, Texas) look to build their win streaks in a clash at middleweight
• Veteran bantamweight Frankie Saenz (13-6, fighting out of Scottsdale, Ariz.) aims to make a statement against Jonathan Martinez (11-3, fighting out of Plainview, Texas)
• Perennial top contender Ray Borg (13-5, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.) looks to spoil the debut of UFC newcomer Nate Maness (11-1, fighting out of Henderson, Ky.)
• Middleweights Eric Spicely (12-6, fighting out of Olneyville, R.I.) and Markus Perez (11-3, fighting out of Sao Paulo, Brazil) battle to return to the win column
• In a battle of featherweight prospects looking to earn their first UFC win, Jamall Emmers (13-5, fighting out of Mentone, Calif.) welcomes the debuting Timur Valiev (16-2, fighting out of Moscow, Russia)

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

###

About UFC^®

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

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 quickly to 7.9 million subscribers, offering fans thousands of live events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, as well as premium editorial content. 

Programming on ESPN+ includes exclusive UFC and Top Rank boxing events, thousands of college sports events (including football and basketball) from more than a dozen sports at 20 conferences, hundreds of MLB and NHL games, top domestic and international soccer (Serie A, MLS, FA Cup, Bundesliga – beginning in 2020, EFL Championship and Carabao Cup, Eredivisie), Grand Slam tennis, international and domestic rugby and cricket, exclusive ESPN+ Original series, acclaimed studio shows and the full library of ESPN’s award-winning 30 for 30 films.

Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) through the ESPN App, (on mobile and connected devices), ESPN.com or ESPNplus.com.  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

THE FOURTH SHOW of BT Sport’s exciting summer schedule has been brought forward and will now take place on Saturday August 15 with the addition of Belfast stars Carl Frampton and Michael Conlan to the card.

The BT Sport-televised show was initially listed to take place on Thursday August 20, but now switches to the previous weekend with the significant bonus of two-weight world champion Frampton and featherweight contender Conlan being drafted into action.

The originally scheduled headliner between Archie Sharp and Jeff Ofori for the WBO European super featherweight title remains on the card along with an IBF European Super-Welterweight  title defence for Troy Williamson.

Elite and hugely popular prospect Dennis McCann rounds out the card.

Frampton, 33, who is awaiting confirmation of his challenge to WBO world super featherweight champion Jamel Herring, will take on the Armenian Vahram Vardanyan, who holds a record of 21-1-1.

The Jackal (27-2-0) last fought in November in Las Vegas when he outpointed Tyler McCreary over 10 rounds.

Conlan (13-0), 28, who holds both the WBA and WBO Intercontinental titles, goes up against the experienced Frenchman Sofiane Takoucht (35-4-1).

Takoucht, 34, has been stopped only once in his professional career and is a former IBF International champion and world title challenger. His single stoppage came in his full IBF title challenge against Josh Warrington in Leeds back in October of last year.

The unbeaten super featherweight Sharp will clock up his 19th professional fight against the 10-2-1 Tottenham man Ofori. It will represent a fourth defence of his WBO European title for the 25-year-old.

Unbeaten Darlington man Williamson defends his title and his record on the show whilst thrilling prospect McCann, just 19, will be having his seventh professional fight since turning pro in May last year.

Israil Madrimov will face Eric Walker on the streets of downtown Tulsa, Oklahoma on August 15, live on DAZN.
 
Madrimov (5-0 5 KOs) has been knocking on the door for World title honors in the Super-Welterweight division and can send a fresh warning to the champions at 154lbs in just his sixth pro outing following a blistering introduction to the paid ranks.
 
The 25 year old looks set to replicate his habitual title winning exploits in the amateur code in the pro game, and ‘The Dream’ is confident of making it six KO wins from six when he goes toe-to-toe with Walker in Tulsa.
 
“I’m very excited to fight on August 15 against such a formidable opponent in Eric Walker,” said Madrimov. “Many thanks to all of my fans worldwide for their support, I can’t wait to put on another great show for you.”
 
“We were initially planning to bring Israil back around September, but this opportunity came up and we all decided that this is a great step for his career,” said Vadim Kornilov, Madrimov’s manager. “We’re looking forward to a bigger test here with Walker then with previous opponents.”
 
“This will be another great performance by Israil,” said Andrei Ryabinskiy, World of Boxing Promotions. “His popularity is growing, and we are very happy working with Matchroom Boxing and DAZN, keeping him busy and moving another step forward on August 15.”
 
For Walker (20-2 9 KOs) the opportunity to derail Madrimov’s rise and catapult himself into the upper echelons of the 154lbs division gives the 37 year old the chance to write yet another chapter of a remarkable life in and out of the ring. 
 
The Louisianan has forged a career in boxing from unlikely beginnings, learning to box in prison as a teenager and then making a bright start to his pro career and won 15 of his first 16 fights before entering ‘The Contender’ in the fall of 2018, where he fell to Brandon Adams in the semi-finals.
 
Walker enters the bout on the back of two wins in the final third of 2019 and the ‘Baby Faced Assasin’ heads to Oklahoma full of confidence that he is the man to end Madrimov’s run.
 
“Madrimov had a great amateur career but, as a pro, he makes a lot of mistakes and I’ll be the guy to give him his first loss,” said Walker. “Despite the restrictions from the pandemic, I’ve been training and staying in shape. I’ve been in the gym since May and I just got back from sparring with Shawn Porter. I’ve been waiting for an opportunity like this, my mind is focused, and I’m ready to take care of business on August 15.” 
 
“Eric Walker is a legitimate 154-pound contender and will be the best fighter that Israil Madrimov has ever faced. Since turning his life around, Eric has reestablished his career and was a star on the last season of ‘The Contender’. I expect a terrific, competitive fight on August 15 and look forward to watching it on DAZN,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. 
 
Madrimov vs. Walker has been added to the August 15 bill after WBC World Flyweight champion Julio Cesar Martinez was forced to withdraw from his defense against McWilliams Arroyo through a non-COVID 19 related illness, with Matchroom aiming to place the bout on a card later in the year. 
 
The main event on August 15 will now be the mouth-watering undisputed Welterweight title clash between unbeaten defending champion Cecilia Brækhus and unified Super-Lightweight ruler Jessica McCaskill.
 
“Madrimov vs. Walker is a great addition to our August 15 show,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “Israil is one of the standout talents in world boxing and he’s on the cusp of World title glory after just five fights in the paid ranks – a remarkable achievement. 
 
“But Eric has already shown he has all the ingredients to beat the odds time and time again, and I know that he will lay it all on the line and provide Israil with the sternest of tests.
 
“Brækhus-McCaskill is a fight fit to top any bill and while it’s sad to lose the ferocious Mexican champion Julio Cesar Martinez from the show, Cecilia and Jessica more than deserve their spot as the main event – especially at a period of time when women’s boxing is on fire and in the spotlight, with the winner in Tulsa looking to take on the winner of the crunch rematch between Katie Taylor and Delfine Persoon, taking place a week after we return in America with a huge night of action in a stunning setting on the streets of Tulsa.”
 
Brækhus-McCaskill and Madrimov-Walker are the show toppers of a massive night of action in the unique setting of the downtown Tulsa streets as Matchroom return Stateside.
 
Madrimov’s fellow countryman Shakhram Giyasov (9-0 7 KOs) puts his WBA International Super-Lightweight title against Francisco Rojo (22-3 15 KOs), 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.

NEW YORK – July 22, 2020 – SHOWTIME Sports^® and Premier Boxing Champions unveiled a nine-event television lineup for the remainder of 2020 in a virtual press conference today. The schedule is the largest collection of world championship boxing announced since the COVID-19 pandemic forced a stoppage of the sport.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® host Brian Custer introduced the schedule comprising of 22 critical matchups, beginning on August 1, featuring 18 undefeated fighters, nine world champions and eight world championship fights including one world title unification bout. The robust rollout of fights over the next five months includes two unique pay-per-view events involving some of boxing’s biggest names – Gervonta Davis, Leo Santa Cruz, Jermall Charlo, Jermell Charlo and David Benavidez.

Each live telecast will be presented without fans in attendance from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. Included in the schedule are four world title eliminators, three interim title fights and 13 bouts in all pitting top-10 ranked fighters.

Custer was joined by Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports and Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc., to preview the robust schedule spanning five months as well as world champions the Charlos, Benavidez and undefeated prospects Stephen Fulton Jr. and Angelo Leo to discuss their respective bouts.

Below are highlights of what Espinoza and the fighters had to say:

STEPHEN ESPINOZA

“We’re thrilled to announce what we believe is the strongest and most comprehensive schedule in all of boxing. Meaningful fights, competitive matchups. This is what boxing fans have been waiting for ever since the sport shut down in March. Between that March date, our last event on ShoBox, and August 1 will be 141 days that we’ve been down. Like everyone else, we’ve spent a tremendous amount of time coming up with protocols – but also a tremendous amount of time coming up with this schedule. From highly regarded prospects to emerging stars and big-time champions, we put them all in tough matchups. This lineup really delivers on our promise to boxing fans with the biggest fights, the most exciting fights, and the highest quality presentation in the sport. We’re doing nine telecasts with what are unquestionably the most significant fights in the sport since boxing has restarted.

“This is a really high-quality schedule with five months of meaningful fights, competitive fights and fights that are really going to determine champions and challengers for the foreseeable future.

“We weren’t going to come back just for the sake of coming back. We wanted to come back at a high level with meaningful fights – with fights which would remind the public why they’re excited about the sport of boxing. So, we put together a schedule week after week of competitive fights, with big names, with meaningful fights. Before we know it, this sport is going to be back where it should be in terms of momentum and positive energy.”

JERMALL CHARLO

“We will show everyone on September 26 that we’re the future of boxing. We’re going to let everyone in the world see the great things that me and my twin brother have done for the sport.

“Of course, the pandemic made us separate a lot of things in our routine and do things slightly differently. But I also can work out here at home so it hasn’t been too tough for me to stay sharp.

“Every fight is tough and I’m coming in prepared like always. Derevyanchenko is a highly rated fighter and we’re both going to go in there to get the job done.

“We haven’t decided who’s going to fight first, but we’re just so excited to be headlining these separate PPV cards. Me and my twin brother have something big in store for everyone on September 26.

“We just stay in shape. We’re always training and we’re always ready. This is a time in life where everyone had to go through the same thing. It was just a matter of time to get back to boxing.

“It is what it is not having fans in the stands. There’s not much we can do about it. We’re back and we’re going to enjoy it.

“I didn’t think Derevyanchenko won the fight against Golovkin, but he definitely made it a lot closer than people expected. I didn’t think people knew about his style and what he brings to the ring. It was close, but I didn’t think he won the fight.

“This win lets people know that I’m ready for the biggest fights against the other middleweight champions. Derevyanchenko has been in with tough competition, but he’s come up short. I know that people will have questions no matter what happens, but that’s just part of boxing. I’m ready to fight.

“It would definitely deliver a statement to the boxing world if I knock him out. The power is for real and I can get in there and hurt just about anybody.

“I feel like we’re going to meet in the middle of the ring and let our hands go. May the best man win. My game plan is going to be to shut his game plan down. We’ll see on fight night.”

ESPINOZA

“Jermall and Jermell have always said they want to do big events, historical events, unprecedented events that are unlike any other and that’s what this is. You would have to go back to those marathon Don King pay-per-views of the 80’s where you would have this many title fights on one card and even on those fights 30 or 40 years ago, you didn’t see the array of talent that we’re getting on September 26. Four world title fights, a unification fight, Jermell, Jermall taking arguably the toughest fights of their careers on the biggest stage. It is sort of the crown jewel in the schedule right now.”

JERMELL CHARLO

“This opportunity is finally here and I’m happy that me and my brother have this day to show how much we put into the sport. Now is our time to be PPV stars.

“I’ve been boxing for so long and it’s been my dream to win multiple belts, you can expect me to get that win. I’m going to dominate. I don’t want to leave this up to the judges. I’m going to dominate or win by knockout. That’s how I do it.

“People will be saying that ‘the Charlos are boxing’ after September 26. They’ll have to put us on the pound-for-pound lists after our performances.

“What matters the most is having this platform and putting on a great performance September 26. We know what we have to do.

“Being well-rested is important. Our bodies are in a great position and now it’s about getting better and working on things we need to work on. Boxing is a year-round sport, so we always stay in shape. 

“Rosario is just another fighter with two arms, two legs and a mind. I’m going to do what I do and be destructive. My job is to take his titles and that’s what I’m planning to do.

“We always fought on the same cards growing up. It gives us energy and helps us be at our best. At the end of the day, we’re going to be ready to fight no matter what.

“When you’re really focused on the fight you’re zoned in and not even hearing the crowd. It’s not going to be a factor for us.

“If Rosario can’t take the power, we can fight all twelve. I can take a punch, but we don’t know if he can take a Jermell Charlo punch. We’re going for knockouts. I like to set it up and deliver it within the 12 rounds.”

ESPINOZA

“We’re thrilled to have David (Benavidez) back on SHOWTIME. He’s one of the most exciting young fighters in boxing. Young, exciting, charismatic, someone that if you haven’t seen fight, you’re in for a treat. Again, on this particular card, we can’t just focus on the main event because there’s two really compelling co-features. Speaking of somebody who’s exciting to watch, “Rollie” Romero clearly fits that bill. If you haven’t seen him, make sure to tune in. He is one of the most exciting young fighters as well. In the opening bout, two high quality heavyweights will match up. In this case, two heavyweights who both suffered from and eventually recovered from COVID. Thankfully, they’ve recovered, but those are three intriguing fights headed by David Benavidez’s return to SHOWTIME.”

DAVID BENAVIDEZ

“I’m very excited to come back. We’ve been out of the ring for almost a year.

“It was a little difficult getting this camp started because – Seattle was the epicenter of the pandemic. So, the number one key was to stay home, stay safe, and train at the right times. Now that we have the fight in August, we’ve brought a couple guys from different cities and everyone has been tested and everything has been good. I’m in my dad’s gym, so we can train whenever we want. We’ve been having a great training camp so far and now it’s just getting to the date smoothly.

“That’s very unfortunate right now (not to have fans in attendance), but I think what matters most is the safety and protection of the people. It’s going to be the same thing, like the Charlo’s said, you kind of get tunnel vision when you’re in the ring. My main goal right now is to give the fans at home the best possible fight I can possibly give them. (Roamer Alexis) Angulo has a nice record, and he has a lot of knockouts. I have a lot of knockouts, so it’s going to be fireworks all night.

“I’m expecting him to come forward, this is his second world title fight. I think he’s here to make a statement and I know he’s taking this fight very seriously. I want these tough fights. I want these brawls. I want these barn burners. You don’t want to blink because this fight is going to end in a knockout.

“My main goal is to get to Caleb Plant. That’s the fight I want the most, that’s the fight I feel the fans want the most. Since we’re in the same promotion company that’s fairly easy. I was hoping to get that fight by the end of this year but the pandemic kind of messed up a lot of things. I’m not looking past Angulo — he looks like a great fighter and he looks like a strong fighter. I want to get past this fight and then hopefully by the beginning of next year we can get to Caleb Plant.

(On a potential move to Light Heavyweight)

“I think so, but as of right now there are a lot of great fights at 168. There’s Caleb Plant, there’s Callum Smith, there’s Canelo, there’s Billy Joe Saunders. There are so many great fighters at 168 and there are a lot of great fights to be made. I’m going to be here until I make all of those fights. I have a long time left in this boxing game. I still have about 10 or 13 years in this boxing game left, so I don’t have to move up too quick. As soon as I get all of these fights and all of the belts I want to get at 168, then it’s time to move up to 175 – but I’m staying at Super Middleweight right now for a while.”

ESPINOZA

“What strikes me about the August 1 card isn’t just the quality at the top of the card with two young, emerging guys fighting for a world title. On this one card, we have five undefeated fighters and one fighter with just one loss. And the one fighter with the loss is trying to avenge that in a rematch on this particular card. This is a remarkably competitive, high-quality card top to bottom. It’s not just Fulton-Leo – although that one is a fight fan’s fight – each of these three fights is meaningful an among top-tier guys and rising stars. They are the kind of fights that sort out future champions from the guys who came close. This card may quietly be the most consistent card from top to bottom on the whole schedule.”

STEPHEN FULTON JR.

“It would mean everything to me (to be the only current world champion from Philadelphia). I feel like I always hold Philly on my back, no matter what, and that mindset would not change even if there were five champions from Philly. I am coming to fight.”

“You should expect a good fight. I have been rocked before, but look where I’m at, still standing. I’m just excited overall for every aspect in how he fights. I am excited to be in the ring with him and have the opportunity to display my skills.”

“I am going to beat him because he hasn’t been tested. No one he fought has brought any competition to him. I am going to beat him because I have been tested, I have taken those punches and showed I can get up. Also, my overall skills are just better than his.

“I am always looking to mental adjustments leading up to the fight, and during the fight. I plan to look at this like sparring. When you are sparring, no one is there. I plan to have that same energy, but just a little more intense.

“Personally, I just want to beat him. After that, we can talk about what happens in the future. Honestly, I am just worried about this guy. I am not even thinking about anyone else. That being said, I feel like I am the best in this division. I prove myself over and over again, and that is what I am going to continue to do. I want to be the first undisputed 122-pound champion in the world.”

ANGELO LEO

“It would mean the world to me (to be the first champion from Albuquerque since the late great Johnny Tapia). He was a fighter I look up to, and to become a champion out of Albuquerque says a lot about the city, and a lot about myself. The goal is to become champion, and to represent Albuquerque in the process.

“At the end of the day it is a fight. He can boast about his resume all he wants. We are both top five in the world, we are both undefeated, so it does not really matter once we get in there. He has beaten undefeated fighters, but if you look at those fights, he has been rocked and dropped in all of them. He is not untouchable.

“I am going to get the victory, of course. Whether it goes 12 rounds or not, I am going in there to get that title.

“I am hungrier than him. I have seen what he has, and I know I can break him down. He doesn’t have the will and the heart like I do. On top of that, I have a lot of skill and experience. He is going to see why I am undefeated.

“I definitely feel I’m ready for championship fights. I thought I was ready for a world title three years ago. After I stopped Cesar Juarez in spectacular fashion, I knew I was ready for a world title.

“The 122-pound division is loaded, filled with great talent. This just makes for exciting fights. This is what boxing fans want, and this is what we are going to give them. To be the best you need to beat the best, and if you do not think that way you should not be in the sport. I am in this sport to be the best.”

(July 22, 2020) — Heavyweight contender Joe Joyce, who is on track for a super fight against fellow undefeated British heavyweight Daniel “Dynamite” Dubois, will take on the battle-hardened Michael Wallisch in the 10-round main event Saturday from BT Sport Studio in London.

This closed-door card, promoted by Queensberry Promotions, marks Joyce’s first ring appearance since last July’s unanimous decision over former world title challenger Bryant Jennings.

Joyce-Wallisch will headline an afternoon of boxing streaming on ESPN+ beginning at 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT.
 
Joyce (10-0, 9 KOs) burst onto the pro boxing scene after capturing a super heavyweight silver medal for the United Kingdom at the 2016 Rio Olympics. In less than three years as a professional, he has knockout victories over former world champion Bermane Stiverne and former world title challenger Alexander Ustinov. He won the Commonwealth title in his fourth pro fight with a second-round stoppage over Lenroy Thomas.
 
Although the Dubois fight is in the cards, he must defeat Wallisch (20-3, 13 KOs), a German veteran who once held the WBO European heavyweight belt. He last fought in September 2019 and was knocked out in three rounds by Tony Yoka, the man who edged Joyce in the 2016 Olympic gold medal match.
 
In other action on the ESPN+ stream:

• In a 10-round junior featherweight battle for the vacant British Southern Area title, Chris Bourke (7-0, 5 KOs) will face Ramez Mahmood (11-0, 2 KOs).
   
• Welterweight prospect Ekow “The Engine” Essuman (13-0, 5 KOs), who knocked out the previously undefeated Curtis Felix Jr. in his last fight, will take on an opponent to be named in a 10-rounder.
   
• Middleweight knockout artist Denzel Bentley (12-0, 10 KOs) will look to extend his knockout streak to three against Mick “The Hammer” Hall (15-2, 2 KOs) in a 10-rounder.
   
• The ESPN+ stream will kick off with a six-round featherweight tilt between Louie Lynn (6-0, 5 KOs) and Monty Ogilvie (9-1, 1 KO).

NEW YORK – July 22, 2020 – SHOWTIME Sports and Premier Boxing Champions announced today a lineup of nine live boxing events featuring 18 undefeated fighters, nine world champions, and eight world championship fights including one world title unification bout. The schedule comprises 22 critical matchups from bantamweight to heavyweight and features some of the biggest stars in the sport today – Gervonta Davis, Leo Santa Cruz, Jermall Charlo, Jermell Charlo, David Benavidez and more. It is the largest collection of world championship boxing announced since the COVID-19 pandemic forced a stoppage of the sport.

The SHOWTIME boxing schedule begins on Saturday, August 1 and runs through the end of 2020. Initially, each live telecast will be presented without fans in attendance from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. Included in the schedule are four world title eliminators, three interim title fights and 13 bouts in all pitting top-10 ranked fighters.

There are two SHOWTIME PPV^® events in the lineup presented by Premier Boxing Champions. The first in late September is a pay-per-view doubleheader featuring four world title bouts in back-to-back three-fight events on the same night all for one price. Doubleheaders are common in the NFL, NBA and MLB. There hasn’t ever been a boxing PPV doubleheader – until now. The second blockbuster PPV event in October is a unique clash with the winner earning world titles in two weight classes. 

“We are proud to announce the strongest and most comprehensive schedule of fights in all of boxing,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports and Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “Each bout on this schedule, our largest schedule announcement since 2018, carries high stakes and significant implications. From highly regarded prospects to emerging stars to established champions – all in tough matchups – this lineup delivers on our promise to provide boxing fans with the best talent, the most exciting fights and the highest quality presentation in the sport. We are thrilled to return to live boxing with this star-studded schedule of exciting, meaningful fights.”

Philadelphia’s 122-pound rising star Stephen Fulton Jr. will headline SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® on August 1 (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) against talented, fellow undefeated contender Angelo Leo of the Mayweather stable in a marquee 12-round matchup for the vacant WBO junior featherweight world title. The Premier Boxing Champions event is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions. This will mark the first live boxing event on SHOWTIME since ShoBox: The New Generation on March 13 when the network presented what was to be the last nationally televised professional sporting event in the U.S. for several weeks.

“We couldn’t be more excited to be finally getting back to boxing,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “Everyone has been patiently waiting and the series of fights that we will collectively put on over the next few months will be great for boxing and the sports world in general. We’re kicking things off August 1 with a world title opportunity for our rising contender Angelo Leo who has been consistently grinding and taking care of business. He’s facing another young and focused undefeated fighter and only one of them can be crowned champion. Both guys are confident that the title belongs to them, which is going to make for a great fight from the first bell.”

“I have been really impressed with both Fulton and Leo,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Fulton’s resume includes victories over eight undefeated fighters. Angelo Leo will be the third straight unbeaten fighter he’s faced. Leo has passed every test he’s had with victories against some of the toughest fighters in the division. The winner of this match will be soaring to new heights in the division.”

“This is my time. I’ve prepared for this my whole life,” said Fulton. “He will be a world champion one day, but not this time.”

“I’m excited to get back in the ring and to continue where I left off,” said Leo. “It’s an honor to be the main event on SHOWTIME and to be fighting for the WBO belt.”

The fight-by-fight schedule follows:

August 1

Main Event: Stephen Fulton Jr. (18-0, 8 KOs) vs. Angelo Leo (19-0, 9 KOs) – Vacant WBO Junior Featherweight World Championship

Co-Feature: Tramaine Williams (19-0, 6 KOs) vs. Ra’eese Aleem (16-0, 10 KOs) – Super Bantamweight Title Eliminator

Co-Feature: Joe George (10-0, 6 KOs) vs. Marcos Escudero (10-1, 9 KOs) II – Light Heavyweight Bout

About: Fellow Americans and undefeated fighters Fulton and Leo are legitimate top-10 junior featherweight contenders who will meet for the vacant WBO 122-pound world title. A southpaw from New Haven, Conn., Williams will clash with Las Vegas-based Aleem in an intriguing, 50-50 matchup between talented, undefeated prospects. Managed by All-Pro lineman Trent Williams, Houston’s George upset Escudero in an exciting ShoBox affair last November.

August 15

Main Event: David Benavidez (22-0, 19 KOs) vs. Roamer Alexis Angulo (26-1, 22 KOs) – WBC Super Middleweight World Championship

Co-Feature: Rolando Romero (11-0, 10 KOs) vs. Jackson Marinez (19-0, 7 KOs) – WBA Lightweight Interim Title

Co-Feature: Otto Wallin (20-1, 13 KOs) vs. Travis Kauffman (32-3, 23 KOs) – Heavyweight Bout

About: Undefeated Benavidez, 23, kicks off his second reign as WBC Super Middleweight Champion. In 2017, he became the youngest 168-pound champion in boxing history by defeating Ronald Gavril on SHOWTIME at just 20 years old. Angulo is coming off an upset win over heavily hyped and then unbeaten prospect Anthony Sims Jr. The power-punching “Rolly” Romero of the Mayweather stable, who has scored five first- or second-round stoppages in his last six fights, is an undefeated ShoBox alum ranked No. 10 by the WBA while Marinez is ranked No. 6. Wallin vs. Kauffman is an intriguing heavyweight matchup between the Swedish southpaw and the veteran Kauffman. Both fighters have survived bouts with the COVID-19 virus, made full recoveries and are anxious to get back in the ring. The winner will undoubtedly receive another big fight. The loser will go to the back of the line in the busy heavyweight division. This Premier Boxing Champions event is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing. The Romero vs. Marinez bout is co-promoted by Mayweather Promotions.

September 19

Main Event: Erickson Lubin (22-1, 16 KOs) vs. Terrell Gausha (21-1-1, 10 KOs) – WBC Super Welterweight Title Eliminator Bout

Co-Feature: Tugstsogt Nyambayar (11-1, 9 KOs) vs. Eduardo Ramirez (23-2-3, 10 KOs) – WBC Featherweight Title Eliminator Bout

Co-Feature: Jaron Ennis (25-0, 23 KOs) vs. TBA – Welterweight Bout

About: Lubin, already a veteran at just 24 years old, has excelled since his shocking first-round loss to Jermell Charlo three years ago. Gausha is a former U.S. Olympian with just one loss. Both men are poised and hungry for a signature win and the opportunity to fight for a unified 154-pound title, which will be on the line the following week. Nyambayar and Ramirez are legitimate top-10 contenders. Nyambayar faced Gary Russell Jr. in February on SHOWTIME in the last SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast before the COVID-19 shutdown. Ramirez, of Mexico, is coming off a stoppage of previously unbeaten Leduan Barthelemy. A graduate of the popular ShoBox: The New Generation series, Philadelphia native Ennis has fought twice on ShoBox and twice on SHOWTIME BOXING: Special Edition cards. Ennis is a former National Golden Gloves Champion ranked No. 12 by the WBO and No. 14 by the IBF. This Premier Boxing Champions event is promoted by TGB Promotions and the Ennis bout is in association with D & D Boxing.

September 26 – SHOWTIME/Premier Boxing Champions PPV Doubleheader

In One of the Main Events: Jermall Charlo (30-0, 22 KOs) vs. Sergiy Derevyanchenko (13-2, 10 KOs) – WBC Middleweight World Championship

Co-Feature: Brandon Figueroa (20-0-1, 15 KOs) vs. Damien Vasquez (15-1-1, 7 KOs) – WBA Super Bantamweight World Championship

Co-Feature: Diego Magdaleno (32-3, 13 KOs) vs. Isaac Cruz (19-1-1, 14 KOs) – IBF Lightweight Title Eliminator Bout

About: Houston’s Charlo will defend his title against WBC No.-1 ranked Ukrainian Derevyanchenko in one of the main events of this pay-per-view twin bill that boasts four world title fights. Charlo has held the WBC middleweight title since 2019 and reigned as the IBF junior middleweight champion from 2015 to ‘17. Charlo holds wins at 154 pounds against championship-level fighters including Cornelius Bundrage, Austin Trout and Julian Williams. Derevyanchenko has twice challenged for the IBF middleweight title in 2018 and ‘19, losing only to top-level opponents Daniel Jacobs and Gennadiy Golovkin. The 23-year-old Figueroa claimed the interim WBA 122-pound title with an eighth-round stoppage of Yonfrez Parejo last April, before successfully defending the title with a homecoming KO of Javier Chacon in Edinburg, Texas. After being upgraded to the “regular” titlist, Figueroa retained his belt after a 12-round draw against Julio Ceja last November. The southpaw Vasquez is coming off a stoppage win over Alejandro Moreno in February of 2020. Magdaleno vs. Cruz is an IBF title eliminator matchup of ShoBox alums currently ranked 10^th and sixth, respectively.

The Other Main Event: Jermell Charlo (33-1, 17 KOs) vs. Jeison Rosario (20-1-1, 14 KOs) – WBC, WBA and IBF 154-Pound Unification Bout

Co-Feature: Mario Barrios (25-0, 16 KOs) vs. Ryan Karl (18-2, 11 KOs) – WBA Super Lightweight World Championship

Co-Feature: Daniel Roman (26-3-1, 10 KOs) vs. TBA – Super Bantamweight Bout

About: In the other main event of this two-part, six-fight pay-per-view telecast, Jermell Charlo will take on Rosario in just the eighth world title unification fight in the 154-pound division’s history. It is also just the second fight with three super welterweight world title belts up for grabs. In January, Rosario upset Julian Williams to win the WBA and IBF titles. Last December, Charlo regained the title by stopping Tony Harrison. At stake is supremacy in a talent-rich division. The 25-year-old Barrios from San Antonio has held the WBA (regular) super lightweight title since September of 2019. His opponent Karl hails from Houston and is ranked No. 9 by the WBA. A regular sparring partner of Erislandy Lara and Jermell Charlo, Karl is trained by Ronnie Shields. Roman is a former unified super bantamweight champion, having held the WBA (Super) and IBF titles from 2019 to January 2020. Roman’s 19-bout winning streak was snapped in January in a split-decision loss to Murodjon Akhmadaliev. Ranked in the top five by all four sanctioning bodies, Roman previously held the WBA title from 2017 to 2019. This unique PPV doubleheader is presented by Premier Boxing Champions and promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions. The Jermell Charlo-Jeison Rosario match is co-promoted with Sampson Boxing.

October 10

Main Event: Sergey Lipinets (16-1, 12 KOs) vs. Kudratillo Abdukakhorov (15-0, 8 KOs) – IBF Welterweight Interim Title

Co-Feature: Xavier Martinez (15-0, 11 KOs) vs. Claudio Marrero (24-4, 17 KOs) – Super Featherweight Bout

Co-Feature: Malik Hawkins (18-0, 11 KOs) vs. Subriel Matias (15-1, 15 KOs) – Super Lightweight Bout

About: The 31-year-old Lipinets has won three significant fights in a row since his lone loss to Mikey Garcia, including a dominant stoppage that sent former word titlist Lamont Peterson into retirement. Uzbekistan’s Abdukakhorov is coming off his biggest win to date over former world titlist Luis Collazo and is yet to taste defeat since turning professional in 2015. With Abdukakhorov ranked No. 1 by the IBF and Lipinets ranked No. 3, the winner will be in prime position to challenge the unified 147-pound world champion Errol Spence Jr. Sacramento’s Martinez of the Mayweather stable is an exciting prospect who thrilled ShoBox viewers when he scored one of the quickest knockouts in the history of the series last November, while Marrero is a grizzled veteran who held the WBA interim featherweight title in 2017. Hawkins of the Mayweather stable is trained by Calvin Ford and a teammate of two-division world champion Gervonta Davis. Every one of Matias’ 15 career victories as a pro has come by way of knockout, with his only setback a unanimous-decision loss to Petros Ananyan back in February. This Premier Boxing Champions event is promoted by TGB Promotions, Top Rank, Inc. and Mayweather Promotions. 

October 24 – SHOWTIME/Premier Boxing Champions PPV

Main Event: Gervonta Davis (23-0, 22 KOs) vs. Leo Santa Cruz (37-1-1, 19 KOs) – WBA Super Featherweight World Championship/WBA Lightweight World Championship

About: This blockbuster main event will be contested at the super featherweight limit of 130 pounds. The winner of the match, however, will be in the unique position to earn world championships at 130 and 135 pounds on the same night.Two crowd favorites with massive followings will meet with Santa Cruz’s newly won WBA (Super) 130-pound world title on the line. The unbeaten “Tank” Davis is a two-division world champion and reigning WBA lightweight titlist at the age of 25. He emerged as a bona fide star in 2019 with sold-out main event bouts in Baltimore and Atlanta. “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz is a four-division world champion who avenged his only professional loss to Carl Frampton. The stage is set for one of the best matchups that can be made in all of boxing. Both men are all-action fighters. Davis boasts a knockout percentage of .957 while Santa Cruz is one of the busiest punchers in the sport. The winner of this fight will rightfully earn a top-10 spot on the coveted pound-for-pound list. This Premier Boxing Champions event is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, TGB Promotions, GTD Promotions and Santa Cruz Boxing Club.

November 28

Main Event: Chris Colbert (14-0, 5 KOs) vs. Jaime Arboleda (16-1, 13 KOs) – WBA Super Featherweight Interim Title

Co-Feature: Richardson Hitchins (11-0, 5 KOs) vs. Argenis Mendez (25-5-3, 12 KOs) – Super Lightweight Bout

Co-Feature: TBA

About: The WBA interim super featherweight champion Colbert has fought five times in the past 20 months. Arboleda of Panama earned a split-decision win over veteran Jayson Velez in a WBA junior lightweight eliminator in February. New York City’s Hitchins of the Mayweather stable represented his parents’ home country of Haiti in the 2016 Rio Olympic Games and Mendez is a former IBF Super Featherweight champion from the Dominican Republic. This Premier Boxing Champions event is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing. The Hitchins vs. Mendez bout is co-promoted by Mayweather Promotions.

December 12

Main Event: Nordine Oubaali (17-0, 12 KOs) vs. Nonito Donaire (40-6, 26 KOs) – WBC Bantamweight World Championship

Co-Feature: TBA

Co-Feature: TBA

About: France’s Oubaali will be defending the WBC bantamweight world title for the third time. Donaire is the No. 1-ranked contender and fighting for his eighth world championship. A four-division titlist and former pound-for-pound mainstay, Donaire fought brilliantly in what many picked as 2019’s Fight of the Year, a decision loss to Naoya Inoue. At age 37, Donaire is attempting to defy the belief that the smaller the fighter, the earlier the prime. The Premier Boxing Champions event is promoted by TGB Promotions.

JOE JOYCE will fight a man on a mission on Saturday night as German Heavyweight Michael Wallisch has again stated his intention to derail The Juggernaut’s journey to the O2 Arena and Daniel Dubois.

Should Joyce (10-0, 9KO’s) topple Wallisch (23-0, 13KO’s) on Saturday night, he’ll have fulfilled his half of the bargain and booked his spot on the top of the bill at the O2 Arena, London on October 24th.

All that will be left then is for Daniel Dubois (14-0, 13KO’s) to beat Wallisch’s teammate Erik Pfeifer (7-0, 5KO’s) on August 29th and the huge domestic showdown between ‘Dynamite’ and Joyce will be booked.

Both German’s were in town for a press conference yesterday hyping their upcoming fights with their British opponents and Wallisch made clear he intends to kill any hopes of the all-English clash later this year.

Introducing himself to the UK audience he said: “My name is Michael Wallisch, Heavyweight Division of Germany, and i’ve come to f*ck up the fight.”

Amateur standout Erik Pfeifer echoed that sentiment by saying that he was “here to beat Daniel Dubois.”

The pair are stiff challenges for Dubois and Joyce, with many saying that Dubois’ opponent in particular represents the toughest challenge of Daniel’s short career.

Veteran Wallisch understands the British fans’ hunger for the ‘Seek and Destroy’ branded scrap between the two Frank Warren Heavyweights but insists his and Pfeifer’s eyes are on the biggest prize in all of boxing.

“The plan is to ruin the fight between Dubois and Joyce. We’re thinking about which of us is winning, who’ll fight the other guy (in October) and then the winner wants to fight Tyson Fury in England.”

Both Dubois and Joyce were on-hand yesterday but at times seemed more motivated by staring each other down, and Wallisch believes that complacency could be what costs Joe on Saturday night.

“He should never underestimate me.

“I’m an old wolf in this business. I know you should never underestimate anyone and he shouldn’t underestimate me.”

Pfeifer, who had a stellar amateur career that took in two Olympic games, two World Championship Bronze medals and two victories over Tony Yoka, doesn’t believe that Dubois knows what he’s up against when the pair touch gloves.

“I’m Dubois’ toughest opponent. He hasn’t fought a strong fighter before.

“He’s a stepping stone in my way and I’ll push him aside.”

Pushed to give a prediction for this Saturday night when Wallisch and Joyce collide, confident Pfeifer simply said: “Wallisch will win.”

Despite their dastardly intentions to spoil British boxing’s biggest party, Wallisch looks forward to fighting in England as he recognises it as one of the great boxing markets in the world.

“We love to fight in England. England is one of the best countries to fight in.”

That said, English fans should expect no favours from their European cousins.

“The Germans are coming. And we will win.”

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To watch the full interview with Michael Wallisch and Erik Pfeifer, please click here 

Joyce vs Wallisch is live on BT Sport 1 at 7.15pm on Saturday July 25th

Nathan Thorley is determined to announce himself on the big stage when he challenges Bournemouth’s Chris Billam-Smith for the Commonwealth Cruiserweight Title on Week 2 of Matchroom Fight Camp in Brentwood, Essex on Friday August 7, live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US. 

‘Thunder’ (14-0, 6 KOs) won Welsh honours at Light-Heavyweight before admitting defeat in his battle with the scales and moving up to Cruiserweight where he has scored points wins over Lithuanian imports Remigijus Ziausys and Dmitrij Kalinovskij.

The 2014 Commonwealth Games bronze medallist is confident fans will see the best version of him when he steps up in class to face ‘The Gentleman’ in what he hopes will be the first of many title fights at his new weight. 

“I’ve had one fight where my opponent was coming to win, and he got knocked out in the second round,” said Thorley. “I’m taking nothing away from Jermaine Asare, he’s a tidy fighter. After that I went back to fighting journeymen again – opponents who are only trying to survive in there. That’s not what I want out of this sport. I want to fight the best to be the best. 

“The division is massive at the moment, it never used to be, but now there’s plenty of fights out there for me that I want to take and will take. Chris is a good fighter. He’s got a good shot selection to the body and head. He’s a fit, strong, physical guy so I’ve got my work cut out. It’s not going to be an easy night. I’m really looking forward to getting in the ring with him. 

“I was never going to pass at this opportunity. This is my breakthrough night. Everyone that I’ve fought or sparred with have always said I’m big and awkward. He’ll have his work cut out too. I’m not coming in to just fall down. I’m coming in to win. I will have my hand raised.”

Billam-Smith vs. Thorley lands on Week 2 of Matchroom Camp, Terri Harper’s (10-0, 5 KOs) defence of her WBC and IBO Super-Featherweight World Titles against British rival Natasha Jonas (9-1, 7 KOs) headlines the show, Liverpool Super-Welterweight Anthony Fowler (12-1, 9 KOs) gets his second outing of the year against Adam Harper (9-1), Oldham Lightweight prospect Aqib Fiaz (5-0) steps up against Birmingham’s former Midlands Area Champion Kane Baker (13-6) and Leeds Featherweight prospect Hopey Price (2-0) fights on UK soil again following his win on the huge Andy Ruiz vs. Anthony Joshua 2 show in Saudi Arabia. 

Oscar Valdez tuned up for a fall showdown with Miguel Berchelt by stopping veteran Jayson Velez in the final round of their 10-round junior lightweight bout at The MGM Grand in Las Vegas,

In the waning seconds of round five, Valdez dropped Velez with a powerful left hook to the chin.

In round nine, Velez was deduced a point for a low blow. In round ten, Valdez put Velez down with a left hook. Upon getting up, Velez ate more left hook that made him stumble in to the ropes, and the bout was stopped at 2:23.

Valdez, 129.9 lbs of Nogales, MEX is 28-0 with 22 knockouts. Berchelt, 130 lbs of Juncos, PR is 29-7-1.

“Miguel Berchelt is the fight I want. He has the WBC title at 130 pounds. I want the WBC title. Miguel and I would make for a great fight,” Valdez said. “Velez was everything I expected, a tough warrior who fought his heart out. I commend him for a great performance and a great fight.”

Berlanga keeps 1st round KO in streak; Stops Moon in 1!!

Edgar Berlanga kept his perfect 1st round knockout streak in-tact as he stopped Eric Moon in the opening frame of their scheduled eight-round super middleweight fight.

Berlanga landed some hard body shots that was followed by a crushing right to the head that dumped Moon on the canvas. Moon tried to get up, but he fell back down, and the fight was stopped at 1:02.

Berlanga, 169 lbs of Brooklyn is 14-0 with 14 knockouts. Moon, 1687.7 lbs of Marietta, GA is 11-3.

“It was another step-up fight for me. We prepared to go rounds, but I got him hurt and got him out of there,” Berlanga said. “I still have so much room to grow as a fighter. The power is there, but I will show everyone that I am a well-rounded fighter. The knockout streak is cool, but there is more to me than first-round knockouts.”

Former world champion Isaac Dogboe stopped former world title challenger Chris Avalos in the final round of their scheduled eight-round featherweight bout.

Dogboe hurt Avalos with a hard combination and landed a booming left hook that had the fight stopped at 2:25.

Dogboe, 126 lbs of Ghana is now 21-2 with 15 knockouts. Avalos, 125.9 lbs of Lancaster, CA 27-8.

“I was off for 14 months. This was a long time coming. I felt great with my new trainer, Barry Hunter. We’re only getting warmed up,” Dogboe said. “I wanted to show everyone that Isaac Dogboe never went away. I’m still here, and I am only getting better.”

Elvis Rodriguez stopped Dennis Okoth in round two of their scheduled six-round junior welterweight bout.

Rodriguez, 141.8 lbs of The Dominican Republic is 8-0-1 with eight knockouts. Okoth, 141.5 lbs of Kenya is 4-4-1.

Kim Clavel won an eight-round unanimous decision over Natalie Gonzalez in a light flyweight bout.

Clavel out-landed Gonzalez 131-58.

Clavel, 109.8 lbs of Montreal, CAN won by scores of 80-72 on all cards is now 12-0. Gonzalez, 109.9 lbs of New Rochelle, NY is 6-1.

“I knew it would be a hard fight because she’s a good fighter. She had a good amateur background,” Clavel said. “This was my first time here. I had some pressure, but with every round, I felt better and better in the ring with my coach. We won all the rounds. This is what we wanted.

“I would love to stay active and fight again before the end of 2020. I want to be the best in the light flyweight division.”   

SANTA FE SPRINGS, CA (July 20, 2021) – The highly anticipated return of undefeated super lightweight Ruben “Ace” Torres (12-0, 10 KOs) will happen this Sunday, July 26, 2020 as Thompson Boxing Promotions presents 3.2.1 Boxing, a live Pay-Per-View streaming event. Torres will face Oscar Bravo (25-9, 11 KOs), a durable and tough veteran known for giving prospects trouble. Torres will look to get yet another knockout in this 8-round co-main event bout.

The 3.2.1 Boxing 8-round main-event will showcase Michael Dutchover (13-1, 10 KOs), versus Jorge Marron Jr. (18-1, 6 KOs), as well as undefeated featherweight Arnold Dinong (6-0, 1 KO) facing Brandon Cruz (6-1, 4 KOs) in the 6-round opening bout.

Here is what Torres had to say about his upcoming fight with Bravo, training camp and more.

On his recent training camp
“Training camp has been hard but rewarding. I feel like I am building a following, and I’m working hard to continue improving in the gym. My coach Danny Zamora has really helped guide me in the gym and outside of the ring, I am very focused and in the best shape of my life.”

On his matchup with Oscar Bravo
“Oscar Bravo is extremely durable. He has only been stopped once in his career and I am hoping to be the second fighter to do that as well. He is a veteran, who knows how to go rounds and challenge a developing fighter. I am going to fight a smart, but aggressive fight. I’ll look to exploit each flaw he has at the right time. We have a great game plan in place.”

On training with Michael Dutchover
“I am in the gym with Michael Dutchover every day and we have the same coach/manager in Danny Zamora. It is a great feeling that we’re on the same card and fighting the same day since we grind in the gym constantly. Now we’re working for the same goal on the same night. For our whole team, it’ll be a great night of fights.”

On fighting on 3.2.1. Boxing Pay-Per-View
“Thompson Boxing has a lot of fighters, so to be picked as one of the fighters to be featured on the pay-per-view card is a blessing. Thompson Boxing has done a great job with my career and I’m truly grateful. Over the last year I feel a lot of fans have really taken to my abilities in the ring, and fighting on pay-per-view is just the next step.

The July 26, 2020, 3.2.1. PPV broadcast, airing live on the Thompson Boxing Promotions website (www.thompsonboxing.com), will start at 4:30 p.m. PT / 7:30 p.m. ET., and will take place at the Omega Products International Event Center in Corona, CA. 3.2.1 Boxing is priced at $6.50 US Territories, Canada, EU and select Asian Countries, $3.50 Latin America, African and select Asian Countries.

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