In light of a recent article published in the Mail On Sunday regarding Tyson Fury, hall of fame promoter Frank Warren on behalf of Queensberry Promotions has the following statement to make:
 
“The farmer making these outrageous allegations sent me a letter last October, full of errors and basically telling me he had committed perjury by signing statements under oath and lying. When I called him, he asked for money. I told him to clear off and get in contact with UKAD. He chose not to speak to UKAD but instead speak to a newspaper.
 
How anybody can take this man seriously is beyond belief. Tyson has never met this man in his life. What a load of rubbish. We’ll leave this with UKAD to look into and don’t expect it to go any further.
 
It looks like while the football season has been paused, there’s nothing to write about and silly season has instead commenced.“
 

Bishop Wayne T Jackson is a visionary who has built the biggest faith base network in the country with 86 million homes over the last decade on his Impact Network. He is kicking off the second decade with sports and also is venturing into reality shows, documentaries, sitcoms and movies. Impact plans on being the leader in clean, cutting edge family friendly entertainment under the Impact Media Group. The Impact Media Group is lead creativity by Royal Jackson and corporately by Terry Arnold who has green lighted the 48 live boxing shows and the network’s first sports show, Stars and Champions.

Now with sports shut down throughout the country because of the coronavirus, the question is what will happen with boxing’s biggest new comer.

Impact Boxing’s head of legal Rick Torres said that he spoke with Steven Marcano, the network’s programming partner and revealed that plans are even bigger now than ever.

Impact first came out the gate on February 1st with the Team Tapia show and ever since that date the network has been inundated with calls from fighters and promoters asking about aligning themselves with the boxing upstart.

Impact’s boxing division is setting a blazing trail with 8 upcoming dates on the books. Health and the safety of people and fighters and what the world is going through right now is more important then ever for the faith based side of Impact. Bishop is a man of God and is for people first and foremost. Boxing is tentatively being rescheduled for June so long as it is a safe environment for all participants, fans and media to come under one roof.

Impact Media group is still hard at work closing partnership deals with promoters, sponsors and aligning itself with one of Hollywood’s top agencies to expand and grow its original programming for the top of 2021. Ryan Burton, the network’s boxing media head has put together a social media and PR team to get the word out once we are ready to go.

With several shows being worked on, here is a sneak peak at how Impact plans on dominating the summer as long as there are no safety issues: June 19th we will be the rescheduled Raging Babe show in Philadelphia, June 27th Impact will put on a show in the home of the network in Detroit then on July 16th Impact will return to the scene of their first show at the Inn of the Mountain Gods in New Mexico and on August 1st, Rochester, New York has been confirmed. Stay tuned as more information is to come soon.

Prayers and Blessings to all from the Impact Team through this crisis and also from Great Faith Ministries International.

The World Boxing Super Series Cruiserweight final between Mairis Breidis and Yunier Dorticos set for March 21st has been postponed due to the Coronavirus outbreak, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

“Local authorities in Latvia have adopted comprehensive measures in response to the coronavirus pandemic. As a result, events with more than 200 people present have been prohibited until April 14,” the World Boxing Series said in a statement. “In regard to the risk of infection, the local authorities have concluded that the WBSS cruiserweight final is a particularly high-risk event, not only for the athletes themselves but also for all local and foreign staff involved in the organization and conduct of the event.

“For this reason, the WBSS cruiserweight final between Mairis Briedis and Yunier Dorticos cannot take place as planned. The new date planned for the final in Arena Riga is May 16. However, this is, of course, dependent on the current restrictions being lifted. The health of all those involved to stage this historic event is and will always be the primary concern of the WBSS and we will continue to carefully monitor the situation with the authorities and the athlete’s teams.”

“While I was in great shape and looking forward to coming to Latvia to win the Muhammad Ali trophy, I understood the impracticality and therefore l will have to wait until May to win the tournament,” Dorticos said. “I want to thank all my fans for their patience and I ask that everyone be careful and take the necessary steps to stay healthy during these challenging times.”

“We’ve done great work in preparation until the very last planned training, but it is what it is and we will now adapt to the new situation and keep training to wait for the green light,” Briedis said. “Looking forward to fighting in front of my fans when it’s safe. Take care of yourself, people.”

Bethlehem, PA (March 14, 2020)-Tonight’s King’s Promotions boxing event at The Wind Creek Bethlehem Event Center has been postponed due to health concerns in regards to the Pandemic Convid-19 Coronavirus

King’s Promotions will announce a make up date very shortly and all tickets will be honored on that date.

The fight card will remain the same featuring Martino Jules taking on Anvar Yunusov as well as fights featuring Jonathan Rodriguez, Sonny Conto and Khainell Wheeler.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by King’s Promotions, are priced at $35,$50, $75 and $100, not including applicable service charges and taxes and are on sale now. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com. To charge by phone call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000.

Due to the global spread of COVID-19, Team Sauerland and Universum Boxpromotion have cancelled their upcoming night of boxing on April 4th in Hamburg.

For both promoters, the health and safety of the athletes and everyone else present is the top priority. Even an event without spectators exposes them to unnecessary risks.

We thank everyone for their understanding and we will work with our partners to determine when and in what form the event can be rescheduled.

FRAMINGHAM, Mass. (March 13, 2020) — “Fight Night In Framingham”, scheduled to be held (Mar. 20) at Sheraton Framingham Hotel in Framingham, Massachusetts, has been postponed indefinitely due to growing safety and health concerns associated with the COVID-19 Coronavirus pandemic.

“We had been working with the venue very closely to insure the best possible controlled environment,” Shearns Boxing Promotions president Chuck Shearns explained, “but at this point the right thing to do is to take no chances. Health and safety are our top priorities. We have followed suit with other promoters and indefinitely postponed this event.

“This is truly a postponement for Shearns Boxing. Our intent is to reschedule this event, the first pro boxing event ever held in Framingham, as soon as there are no health issues and all restrictions are lifted, along with state sanctioning, of course, and venue availability.”

All tickets sold in advance may be refunded at point of purchase, either online at EverBrite.com, or through the individual fighters.

INFORMATION:

Facebook.com/ShearnsBoxingPromotions

Twitter: @ShearnsBoxing,

Instagram: @ShearnsBoxingPromotions

Eddie Hearn:

“Good afternoon everyone. Thank you for making it to central London today amongst the madness. We are all systems go, May 23^rd, O2 Arena, huge huge Heavyweight clash between WBO No.1, the Mandatory Challenger for the Heavyweight Championship of the World Oleksandr Usyk against Derek ‘WAR’ Chisora.

“As I said, May 23^rd O2 Arena, Sky Sports Box Office, DAZN across America as well, and we can’t wait for this one. It’s been a fight that was brewing for a long time, in fact Alex Krassyuk just said to me ‘you owe Usyk a drink for not going on March 28’. We might have had a major problem, but just under eleven weeks away, we’re confident this fight is going to go ahead with no problems at all.

“We had presale yesterday with The O2, it was sensational, we had Matchroom FightPass today, and we have General Sale at The O2 Arena tomorrow. Before we speak to the fighters and speak to the teams, I’m going to pass over to Sky Sports’ Head of Boxing Development Adam Smith.” 

Adam Smith, Sky Sports’ Head of Boxing Development:

“This is a fantastic fight on May 23rd in London, it’s been a long time coming. Derek Chisora has had a rejuvenated time in the last couple of years. Him, David and his team really fancy this massive fight. Oleksandr Usyk, it’s been punch-perfect throughout his entire amateur and professional career. A wonderful fighter and an amazing Cruiserweight, Unified the belts and a fantastic victory over Tony Bellew.

“He’s dipping his toes into the Heavyweight division, now he goes in with a real genuine, tough, strong fired up Heavyweight in Derek Chisora. I think it’s a mouth-watering match, I think it’s got a bit of everything. We will learn so much more about Oleksandr at Heavyweight. I think we’ll know if Derek Chisora can get that World Title shot. He’s still around and he’s still firing. Fantastic times for Heavyweight boxing and another wonderful match.”

Oleksandr Usyk – Kiev, Ukraine – 17-0, 13 KO’s – fighting Derek Chisora in a Heavyweight clash:

“I am very happy to be back here and I really hope that this fight will take place. He’s a really big guy and he hits hard. I will train hard and I will be in the best shape for this fight and I tell you once again, I love boxing very much, I love to box.”

Alexander Krassyuk, K2 Promotions:

“Now we are back in the UK, it’s time for the Heavyweight challenge. Many people say that Derek Chisora is probably the best option for Usyk to test himself in the Heavyweights, which I do agree with. The thing I disagree with is that people say it’s going to be an easy fight for Usyk. I don’t think so. I think it’s going to be probably one of the biggest challenges of his career.

“Derek knows how to box, he knows how to move, he knows how to punch. The good news is Usyk knows how to do this as well. We all expect a great fight on May 23^rd and as soon as Usyk completes his task with Derek Chisora, being Mandatory for the WBO will all expect this year he will face ‘AJ’. I think it’s going to be sold out. Hopefully nothing can stop this fight from taking place. We all pray for that.”

Egis Klimas, manager of Oleksandr Usyk:

“He’s coming up from Cruiserweight, he did everything that is possible to do in the Cruiserweight division. This island holds all of the Heavyweight belts right now. That’s why we’re here, digging. Of course now he needs to face a tough opponent, and Chisora is a good fighter with big experience and that’s why we decided to go down that road.”

Derek Chisora – Finchley, London – 32-9, 23 KO’s – fighting Oleksandr Usyk in a Heavyweight clash:

“I want to thank Oleksandr for taking this fight. I am fighting one of the best fighters out there! The guy knows how to box and I can’t get sparring partners who can box like him. I will chuck whatever I can chuck. I want to take his golden ticket and I want to take what he has and make it mine. I think the way he wins this fight is by knocking me out but that is not going to happen because I am going to keep coming. I am so chuffed for this fight. 

“The guy has good foot movement and If I box his way he is going to win it. I just need to land a couple of punches to slow him down and it is going to be an exciting fight. I am ready to go! I will step in them ropes, bite down on the gumshield and catch this man.”

David Haye, Hayemaker Promotions:

“I think this has worked in Derek’s favour, the fight being pushed back, as it has given him an opportunity over the six month period to consistently train. We’re not talking training so he will be burnt out come fight night but periodic training. We are working on his engine, his punch quality and week by week he has improved. He has looked so good that we had to give him a vacation!

“He has done his first spar and we now have ourselves a situation with an exceptional Cruiserweight, perhaps even the best ever moving into a division where he hasn’t done anything yet. He touched on it as an amateur, but that is long range and about boxing skills.

“Derek isn’t going to try and outbox Usyk, he is going to drag him into a dogfight from the first bell. I feel he is brave enough to hold his feet because he feels he is significantly better than Derek but he is going to be in there with a completely different animal. 

“Sometimes skills can be overridden by size, heart and desire. I don’t feel that Usyk has been in a rough fight which he will be in on May 23rd. We are going to cause a massive upset and I feel that Usyk has miscalculated Derek heading into this fight. who would have thought that Derek would have been in the ring with a pound for pound king in Usyk a couple of years back? Usyk does not realise what Derek is about! His coach will not allow him in sparring to do what Derek will be doing to him with 10oz gloves on. This will be a special fight.”

Tickets for Usyk vs. Chisora are priced £40, £60, £80, £100, £150, £200, £400 and £800 (VIP).

FightPass tickets are available to purchase for Matchroom Boxing FightPass members NOW via StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk) and Matchroom Boxing (www.matchroomboxing.com)

General Sale tickets will be available to purchase from midday on Saturday March 14 via StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk), The O2 (www.theo2.co.uk) and Matchroom Boxing (www.matchroomboxing.com).

PHILADELPHIA, PA — In the interest of the health and safety of Philadelphia’s fight fans, Raging Babe’s Michelle Rosado has elected to postpone her March 27 event, dubbed Philly Special.  

The event has been rescheduled for June 19, and will feature the same lineup, including an all-Philly main event between Stevie Ortiz and Damon Allen. 

“I think this is the best thing for all involved,” said Rosado.  “While the state didn’t require us to shut it down, we feel it’s the best course of action, and in line with other sports’ coronavirus measures. I care too much about the health of our fans and their families to take the risk.  I am not happy about postponing the card, but I would feel much worse if someone became sick because they attended the Philly Special.

“Both Stevie Ortiz and Damon Allen have agreed to fight in June, and I really want to say how much I appreciate their flexibility and commitment to this event. They know how much has gone into promoting the show, and that they’re willing to see it through is so appreciated.  The undercard fighters have also been great about the postponement. We are a fighting city – we will fight on.”  

Philly Special tickets that were purchased online through 2300arena.com will be automatically refunded on Monday, March 16. Refunds will take 3-5 days to process. If tickets were purchased from a fighter, contact the fighter for a refund, or call 267-575-0000. For tickets purchased through the Peltz Boxing office, call 267-575-0000.  

All tickets issued for March 27 will be voided, and will not scan at the door on June 19. 

THE BRITISH SUPER featherweight champion, Anthony Cacace, has signed with Frank Warren and will continue his career fighting on the Queensberry Promotions platform.

The Belfast southpaw, 31, seized his Lonsdale belt with the memorable defeat of former champion and then unbeaten Sam Bowen in Birmingham back in November, a win which took his ring record to 18-1 (7KOs).

The stylish Apache has long been an avoided fighter and the sole reverse on his card, a contentious split decision to defeat to Martin J Ward in his first British title challenge, led to a period of inactivity before he was mandated to fight Bowen.

“I am delighted to be signing with such a big promoter who will give me the chances to be on big shows,” responded Cacace to his new beginning. “At my age and with my experience, it is what I need.

“I am just excited for the future.

“I have actually never worked with a promoter and this is my first time – I just feel that now I’ve got the opportunity to fulfil my potential or at least know where I am going.”

While Cacace obviously falls outside the prospect or young contender category, he insists he has plenty left in front of him and doesn’t have miles on the clock.

“That’s it, I am a fresh 31-year-old and I’ve never been in wars. The Bowen fight was the hardest one I have ever been in and there is a lot more in me, so we have got to see how it works out.

“I like to think of myself as being a smart boxer. If I have to fight, I will fight, but I will do it effectively and won’t just go in with my head and lose brain cells for nothing!

“The Bowen fight, for me, was 50 per cent of what I can actually do and I perform better in the gym. I still got the job done on the night and was good enough to beat him.

“Hopefully over the next year or two you will be able to see what I can do fully.

“A defence of my title is the likely option next and the likes of (Archie) Sharp and (Zelfa) Barrett I would fight them both in the morning. It is just getting them to face me.”

Hall of fame promoter Frank Warren added: “I am delighted to be working with Anthony. He showed us last year that he is a brilliant fighter when he upset Sam Bowen and won the British title on our show. Now he’s got the backing of BT Sport and Queensberry Promotions, I am confident we can take Anthony to the next level and build on his British title success.”

An announcement on Anthony Cacace’s first fight as a Queensberry Promotions fighter will be made soon.

You can follow Anthony Cacace on social media:

Twitter: @AntoC6
Instagram: /anto_cacace

NEW YORK (March 12, 2020) — WBO featherweight world champion Shakur Stevenson will defend his world title Saturday against Miguel Marriaga (ESPN, 10:30 p.m. ET), and WBO No. 1 featherweight contender Michael “Mick” Conlan will headline a special St. Patrick’s Day card on Tuesday against Belmar Preciado (ESPN+, 8 p.m. ET). Due to the coronavirus pandemic, these shows at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden will occur without any fans in the arena.

Only essential production and support staff, in addition to fighters and necessary team members, and credentialed media will be granted access to the event.

The Stevenson-Marriaga co-feature will see former junior featherweight world champion Jessie Magdaleno against unbeaten Namibian contender Sakaria Lukas in a 10-round featherweight showdown. The undercard, streaming live on ESPN+ beginning at 7:15 p.m. ET, will feature Brooklyn/Puerto Rican knockout king Edgar Berlanga in an eight-round super middleweight bout against Alan Campa. The 13-0 Berlanga has scored 13 first-round knockouts to begin his pro career.

The Conlan-Preciado co-feature will showcase female fighting sensation Mikaela Mayer against former world champion Melissa Hernandez. The undercard, which will stream live on ESPN+ beginning at 5 p.m. ET, will include top prospects Josue “The Prodigy” Vargas, Julian “Hammer Hands” Rodriguez and Irishman Paddy “Real Deal” Donovan.

This is what the fighters had to say at Thursday’s press conference to promote both events.

Shakur Stevenson

On fighting to a mostly empty arena

“I look at it like when I spar in the gym, there will be a lot of people in the gym. I feel like it’s going to be a little sparring match. Marriaga is tough. He’s going to bring the fight, and it’s going to be a good fight.”

On having added motivation now that he’s a world champion

“It definitely does now that I’m a world champion because he wants my belt from me. It’s not like me chasing someone else for their belt. He lost {world title fights} to Nicholas Walters, gave him hell. He lost to Oscar Valdez, gave him hell. Lomachenko couldn’t really do whatever he wanted to him. I think I’m going to be the first fighter to actually beat him up.”

“I want to be a lot more offensive. I want to go out there and get these guys out of there. And especially with nobody being there, I ain’t getting paid for overtime.”

“The only thing that will keep me at 126 is if the money’s right. If the money isn’t right, I’ll go to 130. I got a hard test in front of me. It’s not like I got an easy fight in front of me. So I ain’t even looking there right now. I’m focused on Marriaga.”

Miguel Marriaga

“It’s no secret what I’m coming to do. Like always, I’m coming to fight and I plan to take full advantage of this great opportunity to become world champion.”

“I always want to face the best. It will be a great fight. I have great desire to become a world champion. This is my fourth world title opportunity. I’m coming well prepared for whatever he brings to the ring.”

Sakaria Lukas

“I’m very excited for this opportunity. It’s everybody’s dream to fight in America, and here we are. I’m ready to go.”

On Magdaleno as an opponent

“We’re going to break him down, and I know him as a former world champion. I know he beat Nonito {Donaire}. He beat another guy from Brazil {Adeilson Dos Santos}, and I think that guy was washed up already. When he was in his first mandatory defense {against Isaac Dogboe} fighting an African guy, he went down, he went down again, and he never came back. Saturday night, you are going to go down again and never come back against this African.”

Jessie Magdaleno

“He has to come. He has to keep himself motivated. He’s an older guy. That’s all the motivation he needs. He knows I’m a ready fighter. I’ve been a world champion before, and God knows I’ll be a two-time world champion very soon.”

On fighting a guy who is largely unknown without a lot of available fight footage

“We prepare on everything. We work on ourselves. We work on our opponent. I’ve seen clips of him. I’ve seen how he fights. {Trainer Jorge Capetillo} and I have a game plan we’re ready to showcase Saturday night.”

On closing in on a featherweight title shot

“It’s been God’s plan. I came back off of a loss and now off two great wins. In 2020, I’m already a mandatory for the {WBC} world title. It says a lot about what my skill sets are, where my mindset is, and we’re just ready to show it out on Saturday.”

Edgar Berlanga

“It’s a huge opportunity once again to be fighting in my hometown. I’m sorry that the fans can’t attend this Saturday, but it’s another day in the office. I gotta handle my business and get the win.”

On his first-round KO streak

“I’m getting the rounds in the gym, and I’m sparring elite fighters. I’m not really worried about it. My main concern is that when I get to that level, that top level with lions in the {super middleweight} division, that we are very prepared to go the full 12 rounds if we have to.”

Michael Conlan

“It’s great being here again in The Garden. They support me so well. I’m always thankful and always grateful for that, but this one is going to be a bit different. It doesn’t really matter about the crowd. It is going to be different in terms of the atmosphere, but I’ve been training. I’ve done the work. I’m ready to rock. It doesn’t really matter who’s there and who’s not. I just gotta do the business. I’m a fighter. I fight.”

On a potential title shot next

“It doesn’t matter what happens next. What happens on Tuesday night is the most important thing, and I can’t overlook that. Come fight night, once I win, I’ll think about what’s next. But, yeah, I’m number one, the mandatory, whatever you want to call it, eliminator. I believe this year I’ll be world champion.”

“What means more to me is having to adapt to the new scenery and focusing on what has to be a dominant performance. I believe I will do that.”

Closing statement

“I can’t apologize. It’s not my fault, but I’m devastated because there were thousands coming over that had to cancel flights and tickets and stuff because the {St. Patrick’s Day} parade was canceled also. It’s not nice, but it is what it is. I’m a fighter. I have to do my job Tuesday night.

Belmar Preciado

“I’m very happy and excited about getting this opportunity. I’m going to show everyone why I’m in this position. I’m here because I’ve been working extremely hard and because I deserve it.”

“I have seen some of his fights. I even watched his last fight live without knowing that I was going to face him next. He is a skillful fighter with great conditioning. He also has a great amateur background, but I’m here to fight and show the fighter that I am.

NEW YORK (March 12, 2020) — After close consultation with the New York State Athletic Commission, it has been determined that Saturday’s and Tuesday’s events cannot proceed in light of the ongoing Coronavirus crisis. Top Rank will work with the Commission to reschedule the events as soon as it is safe for all involved.
 
The health and safety of the fighters and their teams, and everyone involved in the promotion of these events, necessitated taking this step.
 
We thank everyone for their understanding, and we will continue to work with our broadcast/venue partners and state and local officials to decide when the time is right to return.

HINCKLEY, MINN. – March 12, 2020 – Talented undefeated super lightweight prospect Brandun Lee and his opponent in the ShoBox: The New Generation 10-round main event, Camilo Prieto, both made weight a day before their showdown tomorrow night, March 13, live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT) from the Grand Casino Hinckley in Hinckley, Minn.

The knockout artist Lee (18-0, 16 KOs) from La Quinta, Calif., who will be making his second ShoBox appearance and first as the headline attraction, has KO’d all but two of his opponents (88.89 percent). The 33-year-old Prieto (15-2, 10 KOs) is riding a seven-fight win streak with his last loss coming in February 2017.

Friday’s four fights include five boxers who have yet to taste defeat with a total record of 107 wins to just four defeats and two draws. In the co-featured bout, undefeated Brian Norman Jr. (16-0, 14 KOs) puts his perfect record on the line as he takes on Flavio Rodriguez (9-1-1, 7 KOs) in an eight-round welterweight matchup. Undefeated Alejandro Guerrero (11-0, 9 KOs) meets Jose Angulo (12-1, 5 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight scrap while yet another unbeaten fighter Aram Avagyan (9-0-1, 4 KOs) takes on fellow undefeated Dagoberto Aguero (17-0, 11 KOs) in an eight-round featherweight fight.

Barry Tompkins will call the action from ringside with boxing historian Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

The event is promoted by Salita Promotions in association with D&D Boxing and Rapacz Boxing.

FINAL WEIGHTS

Super Lightweight 10-Round Bout

Brandun Lee – 141 ¾ lbs.

Camilo Prieto – 141 ½ lbs.

Referee: Mark Nelson; Judges: Pat Morley (Ill.), Mike Fitzgerald (Wisc.), John Mariano (Minn.)

Welterweight 8-Round Bout

Brian Norman, Jr. – 146 ½ lbs.

Flavio Rodriguez –  146 ¼ lbs.

Referee: Gary Miezwa; Judges: John Mariano (Minn.), Patrick Morley (Ill.), Tim Taggart (Minn.)

Lightweight 8-Round Bout

Alejandro Guerrero – 135 ¼ lbs.

Jose Angulo – 135 ½ lbs.

Referee: Mark Nelson; Judges: John Mariano (Minn.), Eli Staples (Minn.), Tim Taggart (Minn.)

Featherweight 8-Round Bout

Aram Avagyan – 125 ¾ lbs.

Dagoberto Aguero – 125 ½ lbs.

Referee: Gary Ritter; Judges: Mike Fitzgerald (Wisc.), Eli Staples (Minn.), Tim Taggart (Minn.)

FINAL QUOTES:

Brandun Lee

“This is a huge step-up, a huge opportunity. I just want the world to see me perform and the fact that I am headlining on SHOWTIME is great for my career. I’m looking forward to more opportunities like this and fighting better and better competition each time.

“Every fight, we go back to the drawing board. Each fight, we are continuing to correct. Last fight, when I hurt my opponent, I came in too recklessly. I wasted all my energy and didn’t even get him out. So, we always have things to work on and always have things to learn from each fight.

“You can’t overlook anybody. This is boxing. All it takes is one punch to change everything. I respect every fighter I get in the ring with. Anything can happen.

“I’m a boxer because I love the sport. I love the attention. I love the crowd. I love everything about it. I study and go to school because you always need a Plan B. Boxing won’t last forever.

“I know that my opponent has a Cuban background. Cubans dominate at the Olympics. He’s a natural 147 so I think he’s going to be bigger and stronger than me. But the game plan will be the same. I just want to have fun, work the jab and wait for the right shot. I’m okay with taking my time. I need the rounds but at the end of the day, I’m a fighter. If I have a chance to take the guy out, I’m going to go for it.”

Camilo Prieto

“Growing up, every weekend we would watch boxing at home. With both my parents being Cuban, it was a culture thing. But I started boxing on my own because I wanted to learn how to defend myself. Once I stepped in a boxing gym, I just fell in love with the sport.

“Making it to SHOWTIME is a huge deal for me. Nobody believed in me. I did all of this on my own. I flew myself all around the world with nothing but my gloves. It’s been a long road for me. I didn’t turn pro until the age of 27. I’ve just been hustling, relying on my friends and family. This is a dream for me. I’ve watched SHOWTIME boxing since I was a kid so to have this opportunity on Friday night, it’s a dream. I’m ready. I’m going to leave it all in the ring.

“I’ve been grinding my career out. I’ve been self-managed. I’ve just been training, learning the sport on my own. It’s hard to find fights in the U.S. so I’ve had to travel to different countries and get experience in the ring any way I can.

“Ever since I’ve been with Glen [Johnson], I’ve gotten so much better. He’s the best coach I’ve ever had. He’s really helped me starting with just the fundamentals. He’s helped me mentally. I’ve always been confident and since I’ve been with him my confidence is at another level. My mental strength has built. I feel ready for this mentally, physically and emotionally.

“This is just the beginning for me. Even though I’m 33, this is my first television opportunity. There’s a lot of fighters fighting until they are 40. I believe I have five or six years. This is my time. I feel young and I believe I can, so I will. I’m only as good as I believe I am and I’m only going to accomplish what I believe I can accomplish. This is the opportunity of a lifetime. It’s a blessing.”

Brian Norman, Jr.

“I turned pro at 17 so I had to fight a lot of my early fights in Mexico. That gave me great confidence. If you keep knocking guys out in the first round, you’re going to gain confidence. But my last fight where I couldn’t stop him was good for me too. It shows that there are some guys that are just tough to knock out so you need to find another way to win the fight.

“I know I’m on a card with some other good prospects, but I want to be the one to steal the show. I don’t care if I’m co-main event, I want people to say it was my show when the night is over. There are certain qualities that I want to show off in this fight. I know that people know I have power and agility, but I want to show off my footwork and my ring IQ too.

“My last fight was a really good learning experience for me. I thought I was pacing myself. It was good to go the full six rounds and that will help me for this eight-rounder. I was a little frustrated that I didn’t stop the guy. I came out really hard in the first round and I saw that he wasn’t falling, and I realized he would be tough to get out of there. That’s when I switched it up and just out boxed him. It’s about adjusting.

“I’m really excited. This is my first TV fight, so I need to put on a show. This will be my first impression on national boxing fans, so I want them to leave really impressed.”

Flavio Rodriguez

“I’ve had a long road to get here. I’ve fallen in and out of love with the sport of boxing, I stopped fighting for a long time. I gained a ton of weight and went all the way up to 230 pounds. I lost the weight. I’ve been injured. There’s just been so many things that have happened along the way and I am now so grateful and excited for this opportunity. I’m not worried about ring rust at all.

“I think my brain is my biggest weapon. I think I’m smarter than my opponents. I can box. I can slug it out. I assess the way my opponent fights in the first round, and then I adjust from there.

“My opponent looks good. He’s fast. He’s strong. It looks like he has some power. But I believe that I have knockout power too. I know that I’m here because I’m the older guy and I’m the steppingstone fight for him. I know how the game goes; I’ve been around for a while. They expect me to lose but I really feel that I have what it takes to beat him. I don’t think they did their homework right.

“My one loss could have gone either way I think. To be honest. I was headbutted and the blood kept getting in my eye. But he was a tough, good fighter.”

Alejandro Guerrero

“This is a little bit of a step-up fight for me. Fighting on TV is a big deal, and I’m trying to get my name out there. I don’t feel any pressure with this being a TV fight, I’m prepared to do my thing and put on a show. This is a good start but we’re nowhere near where we want to be.

“I work a full time job. I have a really busy day. I leave at four a.m. and don’t get back until 8 o’clock at night. I train in the morning, I go to work a full day, and then I train after work as well.

“I had a lot of ring rust in my last fight. Once I got to the second round, I felt much more comfortable and I made it look easy from there. I just had to get used to the lights again.

“With the style that I have, I think I’m going to rise through the rankings quickly. I bring an aggressiveness and excitement, and I think that’s going to open some eyes. People love to watch the type of fighter I am. I’m willing to go in there and put my life on the line. I like blood. I don’t mind if it’s my own blood. I’m a crowd-pleaser. It’s boring to watch boxers who just go in there and try not to get hit. Boxing to me is about who has more balls in the ring. It’s about who is going to be the last man standing. But I also listen to my coaches and I’m learning to be a smart fighter as well.

“I always want to steal the show. That’s always my goal. I’ve put in a great training camp and I’m excited to face some better, more experienced opponents. That brings out the best in me. I look like a better fighter against guys that can actually fight as opposed to guys that are just trying to survive in there.”

Jose Angulo

“There is a big difference between training in San Jose [Calif.] and training in Ecuador. The intensity has been a lot different. The sparring, the training, the conditioning, is more professional and intense here. There are a lot of good boxers around and I get really good sparring. It has helped my game tremendously and I am in the best shape I have been in.

“There are a lot of people underestimating me as a fighter because the competition back in Ecuador is not strong. Everybody is going to be in for a real surprise on Friday night. I feel the training I have been doing has really sharpened my skills and allowed me to rise to a level I wasn’t able to reach before.

“This is a really big opportunity for me to show everybody what I am able to do. The next step is to sign with a promoter, and this is a showcase for me. I’m not here to just be an opponent for the up-and-coming prospect. I am here to make a name for myself.”

Aram Avagyan

“I have worked my whole life for this. I had a great training camp, I’m dedicated, so nothing can stop me.

“I saw two of his fights on YouTube. He has experience and he was a good amateur fighter. In the ring, we will find out everything. I have a game plan for him. I will listen to my coaches and my corner and do what they tell me.

“This will be my first time on television. It’s great exposure for me. I hope that this fight opens new opportunities.

“When I first started boxing, I wasn’t very good. I was getting hit so much. But I stuck with it, I’m a dedicated person and I’m a warrior so I wanted to keep going and figure it out. There was no way I was going to quit. I love boxing, I love training, and I am here to stay.”

Dagoberto Aguero

“I have fought at bantamweight before and I can still make that weight if it’s necessary, but I feel really comfortable at featherweight right now. I am on weight and feeling really strong.

“I am really prepared for this fight. I don’t necessarily see my opponent as a step-up, I just see him as another opponent. I am always prepared to fight the best talent out there, and this will be no different.

“I’ve been a pro for seven years and it’s a little frustrating that I’m not a little more advanced. There have been some things outside the ring that have slowed me down and not allowed me to fight as much as I wanted to, but I believe my time is now. This is my time to really start advancing and making a name for myself.

“I had an extensive amateur career, and I have fought some really good opponents, including two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Robeisy Ramirez. He is the toughest opponent I’ve ever faced, and I have yet to face that type of competitor as a pro.”

# # #

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports  

About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 81 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more. 

March 12, 2020 – We regretfully must cancel our annual Night of Champions dinner and private show set for Saturday, March 14, due to COVID-19 virus that is affecting the world. The California State Athletic Commission, which sanctions all professional combative sports, is adhering to the recommendations of Governor Gavin Newsom and has cancelled all events through the end of the month.

No new date has been set for Night of Champions as we will use common sense and protect our boxers, staff and fans.

In light of press speculation regarding upcoming British boxing fights amid concerns over coronavirus, Queensberry Promotions wish to assure all fans looking forward to the Daniel Dubois v Joe Joyce event at the O2 next month that as matters currently stand it is NOT in jeopardy.
 
All major public gatherings, including this near sell out event, are in the hands of the relevant authorities which in this case is the British Boxing Board of Control and the Government.
 
The Government have clarified that all such events will go ahead at this time. Accordingly all parties involved in the event including the venue, broadcaster and of course the fighters are proceeding as normal. A spokesperson for the O2 said:  “At this time, we understand that the fight is going ahead as planned and we continue to take advice from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Public Health England, as well as that of local government.
 
“The O2 remains fully open as usual and events scheduled at The O2 arena are currently going ahead. Should this change, we will communicate details to visitors and ticket holders as soon as possible.
 
We take the health and safety of our guests and employees very seriously and continue to monitor the threat of coronavirus globally with advice from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Public Health England, as well as that of local government.”
 
Of course, Queensberry prioritise the wellbeing of those attending or participating in the event and will constantly monitor the Government position and the health of the Boxers. Any update will be posted online through our official channels and any announcements from other sources should be disregarded.
 
In keeping with the stoic position of the Government today however we remain optimistic to present an incredible night of boxing to a packed 02 crowd and there are only a few tickets remaining.
 

Due to concerns about the spread of COVID-19, this Saturday’s Premier Boxing Champions event at MGM National Harbor in Maryland, headlined by James Kirkland vs. Marcos Hernandez and promoted by TGB Promotions, will be postponed until a later date.

“In the interest of public health and after reviewing the current information on COVID-19, we have decided the best course of action is to postpone Saturday’s event,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “We understand how disappointing this is to boxing fans and regret any inconvenience.”

All ticket orders will be refunded from your original point of purchase. If you have purchased online through Ticketmaster, all orders will be refunded automatically. If you have purchased with a credit card on property or over the phone with MGM Resorts, all orders will be refunded automatically.

Credit Cards – Orders purchased with a credit card will be refunded to the credit card used for purchase.

Third Party Purchases – Please reach out to your original point of purchase for information regarding your credit.

Please allow up to 30 days for this refund to reflect with your financial institution.

If you have any questions, please contact Ticketmaster’s Customer Service line at 1-800-653-8000.

Boston (March 12, 2020):

Murphys Boxing has announced that their 5th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Clash which was scheduled to take place this Saturday, March 14th at the House of Blues in Boston has been canceled due to growing concerns over the coronavirus.

“We’re obviously beyond disappointed for the fighters who have trained so hard and our fans that travel from all over to the world to experience a Murphys Boxing event in Boston on St. Patrick’s Day Weekend but everyone’s safety and health is of the upmost importance.”, explains, Murphys Boxing founder and Dropkick Murphys frontman, Ken Casey

“I spoke directly with Governor Baker and we agreed it was the right decision to join several other sporting events and teams during this state of emergency and cancel our annual St. Patrick’s Day Clash. We at Murphys Boxing love you all and wish everyone good health and safety over St. Patrick’s Day Weekend and beyond.”

Refunds for tickets purchased at House of Blues box office can be obtained at point of purchase. For more information on online refunds please call Ticketmaster Customer Service at 1-800-653-8000. If tickets were purchased directly from a fighter, please contact them for a refund.

ABOUT MURPHYS BOXING

Murphys Boxing was founded by Dropkick Murphys’ frontman, Ken Casey in 2014. In just 6 years, Murphys Boxing has become the premier boxing promoter in the New England area and one of the hottest young promotions in the country. Murphys Boxing’s current roster features Top 10 world ranked champions like Charles Foster, Abraham Nova and Mark DeLuca, Top 20 world ranked contenders like Gary ‘Spike’ O’Sullivan, Carlos Gongonra and Greg Vendetti and undefeated prospects like William Foster III, Luis Arcon Diaz and more!

For more information visit: www.murphysboxing.com

LOS ANGELES (March 12) – “This morning, we were informed by the California State Athletic Commission that all combative sports events have been cancelled for the month of March due to concerns regarding COVID-19,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. “Therefore, our March 19 and March 28 events, which were scheduled at Avalon Hollywood and the Forum respectively, have officially been postponed. We will work with state and local officials as well as our venue and broadcast partners to determine the best course of action with respect to these and other upcoming events, both in California and elsewhere.”

“The health and safety of our fighters, fans, employees, officials and partners is of the utmost importance to us, and we thank them for their support and understanding during this time. We will communicate further plans when the time is appropriate.”

Note: For those who have already purchased tickets to the events, refunds will be made available at the original point of purchase. If tickets were purchased online, refunds will be processed automatically.

NEW YORK (March 12, 2020) — Due to the coronavirus pandemic, and to ensure the health and safety of boxing fans and the fight participants, Top Rank announced today that the March 14 and March 17 events at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden will proceed without spectators. The only individuals granted access to the events will be essential production and support staff, in addition to fighters and necessary team members, and credentialed media. Both events will still be shown live on their respective ESPN platforms.

As for future events, Top Rank is consulting with its venue partners and will make a determination in due course.

Full refunds for tickets purchased for the March 14 and March 17 events will be available at the point of purchase.

LAS VEGAS, NV (March 12, 2020) – This past Tuesday, WBC Lightweight Champion, Devin “The Dream” Haney (24-0, 15 KOs), was awarded “Fighter of the Year” by the Nevada Boxing Hall-of-Fame in Las Vegas, Nevada. The young boxer with ties to both Oakland, California and Las Vegas, Nevada, had a dominant 2019, defeating Xolisani Ndongeni, Antonio Moran, Zaur Abdullaev and Alfredo Santiago, becoming the youngest WBC lightweight world champion in the last 23 years.

“It is an honor to be given such an award,” said 21-year-old Devin Haney. “I work hard, and I have the right team around me. My goal is to be mentioned with the greats of this sport. Awards are special but more importantly I want the big fights. I know I have an extremely high boxing IQ and skill set that makes fighters avoid me but I’m ready for anybody in the world. This award for me is motivation and I’m very thankful to the Nevada Boxing Hall-of-Fame for declaring me fighter of the year 2019.”

Haney is not the only Oakland California representative to be honored. Oakland’s own 2004 gold medal Olympian and undefeated two-division world champion Andre Ward, is being inducted into the hall-of-fame on the same day. Both Ward and Haney who were born in San Francisco and raised in Oakland, represent the Bay Area.

Monticello, NY March 12, 2020–Star Boxing’s “Catskills Clash” returns to Monticello, New York at the beautiful Resorts World Catskills for the third edition of boxing’s resurgence in the historic Catskills, on April 17. Top undefeated boxing talent from New York, Connecticut and even Ireland will showcase their skill at Catskills Clash III.

The card will feature undefeated rising star, “THE JACKPOT” TYRONE “PRETTY BOY” JAMES (Elmont, NY 11-0 8KO’s). As a standout amateur, James was a five-time Junior Olympic Champion, as well as a Nebraska Golden Gloves champion.

James has been rising the super welterweight rankings since his pro debut in 2015. Currently riding a five-bout knockout streak, James has dominated his way through his eleven professional bouts with a knockout ratio of over 72%.

James’ success in the ring derives from his length and athleticism. This comes as no surprise as James’ father was a standout athlete, playing professional football for the USFL with the Oklahoma Outlaws and his Uncle, Jerry, was a 1988 National Golden Glove Champion.

James cannot wait for fight night, “I’m so excited to be back. It’s the perfect fit, The Jackpot is fighting for his first title at a casino – it doesn’t get any better than that. Be sure to get your tickets and come out, Cha Ching!”

Another main featured fight will showcase undefeated super lightweight, and 2018 Connecticut Fighter of the Year, “ACTION” ANTHONY LAUREANO (E. Hartford, CT 13-0 4KO’s). Laureano is set to make his third ABO title defense in his third bout at Resorts World Catskills.

Every time Laureano laces up the gloves, fans know the action will follow. Becoming a fan favorite in Monticello, Laureano is excited to return to what is quickly becoming his home away from home, “It feels great to be back in the Catskills! Resort World Catskills has become my home away from home. The staff from Resorts take’s really great care of me and some have really become my friends. I’m excited to do what I do best. Show the gift God gave me. I’m humbled and really happy to be back. The crowd will get what they came for – Action!”

The opponent and title of the James fight, as well as Laureano’s opponent will be announced soon.

The Catskills Clash III also includes a third, special feature attraction. . Danbury, Connecticut’s, OMAR “THE BEAST” BORDOY (10-1 3KO’s) will be in his toughest task to date against the undefeatedIrish sensation, “SLICK” VICTOR RABEI (Dublin, Ireland 8-0 2KO’s). The two had a date set in December but it was postponed due to a Rabei injury. With neither fighter backing down, Bordoy and Rabei will finally step in for what is anticipated to be an all-out war between two rising prospects who know the future is on the line.

In yet a fourth ‘feature fight’ worthy bout, undefeated New Orleans product, CURTIS “HARD KNOCKS” JOHNSON (11-0 8KO’S) makes his way up from the Bayou to take on tough southpaw, LAVISAS “RED” WILLIAMS (Rochester, NY 9-1-1 3KO’s).

Hometown hero, BRYANT “HITMAN” COSTELLO (Liberty, NY 1-1 1KO) will make his triumphant return to his backyard at Resorts World Catskills, fighting for the second time at the venue, looking to build on his “Catskills Clash” II, TKO victory.

CEO of Star Boxing JOE DEGUARDIA had this to say about Catskills Clash III, “We are excited to be back Resorts World Catskills and continue the great tradition of boxing in Monticello. Boxing fans are in for a treat as Tyrone James and Anthony Laureano consistently bring the excitement and are prepared to put on a great show in their respective title bouts, for the true boxing fans of Monticello. The card has a strong undercard, so be sure to get in your seat early and don’t miss any of the action. Get your tickets now before it’s too late!”

More information on the full fight card will be announced soon.
GET TICKETS TO “CATSKILLS CLASH” III!
Fight Night: Friday, April 17, 2020

BUY TICKETS
NOW

ABOUT RESORTS WORLD CATSKILLS:
Located in the heart of New York’s Catskill region, Resorts World Catskills Casino Resort offers guests unmatched experiences in excitement, entertainment, and luxury. The integrated casino resort includes an 18-story all-suite hotel, and a casino featuring 100,000 square feet of gaming action including over150 live Las-Vegas style table games, 1,600 state-of-the art slot machines, a poker room, private gaming salons and a 100 seat sportsbook lounge. The casino resort also offers more than 10 varied bar and restaurant experiences, which includes an Italian steakhouse created by celebrity chef Scott Conant, and year-round live entertainment at the 2,500-seat RW Epicenter, casino bars and lounges. The luxurious hotel located within Resorts World Catskills is comprised of 332 suites, the Crystal Life Spa, two indoor pools, and two fitness centers. The integrated casino resort also includes additional stay and play destinations on its campus, including The Alder, an adjacent 101-room lifestyle hotel featuring the first Topgolf Swing Suites in New York State, and Dos Gatos, a cantina-style Mexican eatery and the recently opened Kartrite Resort and Indoor Waterpark, and will be expanded to include a Rees Jones redesigned golf course

PROVIDENCE, RI (March 12, 2020) – Out of concern for all, and following the instructions from Governor Gina Raimondo and public health officials in the wake of the recent coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, Twin River Casino Hotel has postponed tonight’s scheduled CES Boxing event at the Event Center.

The event will be rescheduled at a later date. Tickets purchased in advance for the March 12 event will be valid on the rescheduled date or for another CES Boxing or CES MMA event. For ticket refunds, contact CES Boxing by phone at 401-724-2253 or email at ticketing@teamces.com.

“While we acknowledge that the fighters scheduled to compete tonight worked hard for weeks, even months, to prepare for this event, the health and safety of all parties involved is more important,” CES Boxing president Jimmy Burchfield Sr. “This is a unique, unprecedented, situation affecting not only Rhode Island, but the entire world, and we are committed to ensuring the safety of others above all else.”

Visit CESBoxing.com for updates.

INFORMATION

CES Boxing promoted its first event in 1992 headlined by future Champion Sucra Ray Oliveira. Over the years, CES has earned the reputation as the Heart and Soul of boxing with a rich history that includes the development of former U.S. Olympian Jason Estrada, plus Vinny Paz and Rhode Island legends Gary Balletto and Peter Manfredo Jr., both of whom rose to fame on The Contender reality television series. Through the years, Jimmy Burchfield Sr has earned several noteworthy awards, among them the NABF Promoter of the Year, and 2011 inductee into the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame.

Twin River Casino Hotel, located in Lincoln, Rhode Island, is the state’s largest gaming and entertainment venue as well as its top tourist and cultural attraction, offering 162,000 square-feet of gaming space with more than 5,000 gaming positions. The casino operates more than 4,200 video slot machines and virtual table games (including blackjack and roulette), as well as 119 live table games including blackjack, roulette, craps, a poker room and more. A great alternative to Connecticut and Massachusetts casinos, this unique gaming facility also hosts simulcasting of the best thoroughbred and greyhound racing from around the country, a 29,000+ square foot Twin River Event Center with headline entertainment, free concerts at the Lighthouse Bar, signature cocktails and premium cigars at Blackstone Cigar Bar, and award-winning beer and live music at the Shipyard Pub. Home to the incredible Fred & Steve’s Steakhouse, you can have an award-winning steak and seafood dinner, or enjoy the exciting sports bar scene at Wicked Good Bar & Grill, as well as 18 other dining outlets. Twin River offers both smoking (1st Floor) and smoke-free (2nd Floor) casinos. Twin River Casino is situated just 10 minutes from Providence and less than an hour from Boston.

Homecoming king

The timing couldn’t be better as Providence’s Toka Kahn Clary returns to his home state of Rhode Island for the first time since 2017.

Kahn headlines Thursday’s CES Boxing showcase at Twin River Casino Hotel in an eight-round bout against dangerous Mexican challenger Dennis Contreras under the guidance of his original trainer, Peter Manfredo.

Check out this story from BoxingScene.com on how Kahn feels he has improved since his last loss and how his family motivates him to succeed in the ring. Kahn enters Thursday with a record of 27-2 with 18 KOs.

In
Gloves up, guns down

In January of 2018, Providence’s Lamont Powell and his uncle were shot while sitting in a car outside of Powell’s home. The gunman fired 36 shots at the car in a span of minutes. Somehow, both of them survived.

The 26-year-old Powell used the incident as motivation to stay in the gym and off the streets. He is now 5-0 since turning in May of 2018 and looks to keep his unbeaten record intact Thursday night against Carlos Huerta.

WPRI has the story on Powell’s brush with death and how he is now visiting schools throughout Rhode Island to speak with children on the dangers of gun violence and how they, too, can achieve their dreams.

Like father, like son

In what could be the fight of the night Thursday, Massachusetts rivals Ray Oliveira Jr. of New Bedford and Derrick Whitley Jr. of Holyoke face off in a six-round welterweight showdown.

Both fighters come from impressive bloodlines. Oliveira, the son of New England icon and former world-title challenger “Sucra” Ray Oliveira, won his first seven fights under the guidance of CES Boxing. Whitley, the son of “Double Impact” Derrick Whitley (pictured), a veteran of 52 pro fights, and the nephew of Derrick’s twin brother Darren Whitley, who fought 44 times as a pro, makes his just second appearance at Twin River.

Check out this 2018 story from The New Bedford Standard Times on Oliveira Jr. building his own legacy in boxing.

Youth is served

CES Boxing made history last month in Worcester when Irvin Gonzalez Jr. captured the WBC Youth World Featherweight Title at The Palladium.

Gonzalez joined stablemate Jamaine Ortiz as the only other American-born WBC Youth title-holder while CES Boxing became the only promotion in the world with two reigning Youth champions.

Read more about Ortiz’s journey to stardom and take a look back at Gonzalez’s big win in his Worcester homecoming against Yeuri Andujar. Gonzalez won by sixth-round knockout and plans on returning soon in 2020.

Minor roadblock

Undefeated featherweight Ricky Delossantos is unable to fight Thursday due to a rib injury, but expects to be back in the ring soon in 2020.

Delossantos issued the following statement Tuesday on his postponed bout against undefeated prospect Edward Vazquez: “After putting together one of the best camps of my career in what was to be my biggest, most important fight, I sustained an injury that will prevent me from competing Thursday night.

“We did everything we could, including seeking second and third opinions from doctors and specialists. This is a tough pill to swallow, but it’s God’s plan, and I won’t let it stop me on my journey.” Read the entire press release is available here.

New kid on the block

One of the highlights on Thursday’s card is the professional debut of Pawtucket, RI, super middleweight Hassler Chacon, who fought 20 times as an amateur.

Outside of the ring, Chacon works at a CNC manufacturing shop, where he makes parts for Dodge vehicle transmissions and elevator shafts. He is also attending the Community College of Rhode Island this summer to complete his certification in Advanced Manufacturing.

On Thursday, Chacon faces Brazilian challenger Raush Manfio, who also makes his professional boxing debut but has a record of 11-3 in professional mixed martial arts. Chacon is training under the guidance of “Sucra” Ray Oliveira.

INFORMATION

CES Boxing promoted its first event in 1992 headlined by future Champion Sucra Ray Oliveira. Over the years, CES has earned the reputation as the Heart and Soul of boxing with a rich history that includes the development of former U.S. Olympian Jason Estrada, plus Vinny Paz and Rhode Island legends Gary Balletto and Peter Manfredo Jr., both of whom rose to fame on The Contender reality television series. Through the years, Jimmy Burchfield Sr has earned several noteworthy awards, among them the NABF Promoter of the Year, and 2011 inductee into the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame.

Twin River Casino Hotel, located in Lincoln, Rhode Island, is the state’s largest gaming and entertainment venue as well as its top tourist and cultural attraction, offering 162,000 square-feet of gaming space with more than 5,000 gaming positions. The casino operates more than 4,200 video slot machines and virtual table games (including blackjack and roulette), as well as 119 live table games including blackjack, roulette, craps, a poker room and more. A great alternative to Connecticut and Massachusetts casinos, this unique gaming facility also hosts simulcasting of the best thoroughbred and greyhound racing from around the country, a 29,000+ square foot Twin River Event Center with headline entertainment, free concerts at the Lighthouse Bar, signature cocktails and premium cigars at Blackstone Cigar Bar, and award-winning beer and live music at the Shipyard Pub. Home to the incredible Fred & Steve’s Steakhouse, you can have an award-winning steak and seafood dinner, or enjoy the exciting sports bar scene at Wicked Good Bar & Grill, as well as 18 other dining outlets. Twin River offers both smoking (1st Floor) and smoke-free (2nd Floor) casinos. Twin River Casino is situated just 10 minutes from Providence and less than an hour from Boston.

PROVIDENCE, RI (March 11, 2020) – Toka Kahn-Clary’s long-awaited homecoming is just 24 hours away as CES Boxing hosts its first show of the year in Rhode Island Thursday night at Twin River Casino Hotel.
Kahn (27-2, 18 KOs) faces Mexican challenger Dennis Contreras (21-10-1, 19 KOs) in the eight-round main event and Massachusetts rivals Ray Oliveira Jr. (8-3, 1 KO) of New Bedford and Derrick Whitley Jr. (6-1-1) of Holyoke square off in the six-round welterweight co-main event.
The show will go on amidst the recent coronavirus outbreak, said CES Boxing president Jimmy Burchfield Sr., as the promotion is expecting a capacity crowd in its first fight at the Event Center since November.

“This is going to be a tremendous event. What a lineup!” Burchfield said. “Every fighter will be tested, including our headliner, Toka Kahn Clary. There are regional rivalries up and down the roster. There’s nothing better than a Thursday night out to start your weekend. We’re looking forward to kicking off our 2020 Twin River Casino Fight Series in style.”

Limited tickets remain starting at $47 are still available online at CESBoxing.com and ShowClix.com, or by phone at 401.724-2253. Doors open at 6 p.m. ET with the first bout at 7.

WEIGH-IN RESULTS
TOKA KAHN-CLARY
Providence, RI
27-2, 18 KOs
128

DENNIS CONTRERAS
Guadalajara, Mexico
21-10-1, 19 KOs
129

RAY OLIVEIRA JR.
New Bedford, MA
8-3, 1 KO
145
DERRICK WHITLEY JR.
Holyoke, MA
6-1-1
146
LAMONT POWELL
Providence, RI
5-0, 1 KO
153

CARLOS HUERTA
Guadalajara, Mexico (Phoenix, AZ)
6-5-2, 3 KOs
151
MARQUS BATES
Taunton, MA
7-3, 5 KOs
146
ROQUE ZAPATA
Panama City, Panama (Culpepper, VA)
6-3-5
149

ANTHONY CONCEPCION
Providence, RI
4-0-1, 4 KOs
154

MARTEZ JACKSON
Valdosta, GA
4-4-3, 2 KOs
153

ELIJAH PEIXOTO
East Providence, RI
2-0
139

ZAYMAR BROTHERS
Philadelphia, PA
0-1-1
141

HASSLER CHACON
Pawtucket, RI
Pro debut
170

RAUSH MANFIO
Porto Alegre, Brazil
Pro debut
167

INFORMATION

CES Boxing promoted its first event in 1992 headlined by future Champion Sucra Ray Oliveira. Over the years, CES has earned the reputation as the Heart and Soul of boxing with a rich history that includes the development of former U.S. Olympian Jason Estrada, plus Vinny Paz and Rhode Island legends Gary Balletto and Peter Manfredo Jr., both of whom rose to fame on The Contender reality television series. Through the years, Jimmy Burchfield Sr has earned several noteworthy awards, among them the NABF Promoter of the Year, and 2011 inductee into the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame.

Twin River Casino Hotel, located in Lincoln, Rhode Island, is the state’s largest gaming and entertainment venue as well as its top tourist and cultural attraction, offering 162,000 square-feet of gaming space with more than 5,000 gaming positions. The casino operates more than 4,200 video slot machines and virtual table games (including blackjack and roulette), as well as 119 live table games including blackjack, roulette, craps, a poker room and more. A great alternative to Connecticut and Massachusetts casinos, this unique gaming facility also hosts simulcasting of the best thoroughbred and greyhound racing from around the country, a 29,000+ square foot Twin River Event Center with headline entertainment, free concerts at the Lighthouse Bar, signature cocktails and premium cigars at Blackstone Cigar Bar, and award-winning beer and live music at the Shipyard Pub. Home to the incredible Fred & Steve’s Steakhouse, you can have an award-winning steak and seafood dinner, or enjoy the exciting sports bar scene at Wicked Good Bar & Grill, as well as 18 other dining outlets. Twin River offers both smoking (1st Floor) and smoke-free (2nd Floor) casinos. Twin River Casino is situated just 10 minutes from Providence and less than an hour from Boston.

FRAMINGHAM, Mass. (March 11, 2020) – Mixed-martial-arts fighter Kastriot “Slaughterhouse” Xhema, fighting out of Greenwich, Connecticut, will make his pro boxing debut against another MMA fighter, Brazil-native Saul “The Spider” Almeida (0-10-3, 20-11 in MMA), Friday night, March 20, on the “Fight Night In Framingham” card at Sheraton Framingham Hotel in Framingham, Massachusetts.

The first pro boxing event ever in Framingham, “Fight Night In Framingham” is a presentation of Shearns Boxing Promotions (SBP), for the benefit of Fighting Life, an after-school youth boxing and academic empowerment program, Fighting Life, which is available 100-percent free of charge, to students beginning in elementary school through high school education.

The son of Albanian immigrants, Xhema has a 3-4 MMA record, mostly in top-rated Bellator competition. His route into combat sports was the result of the courts sending him into an anger management program.

“I got into a lot of street fights when I was young and then I went away to prison,” Xhema explained. “When it was time for me to get out a close friend kept encouraging me to try MMA at a local gym. I got out, started training, and began MMA fighting. Fighting is humbling. I’m hurting people all the time (in MMA and boxing), so there are no reasons to street fight anymore.

“I grew-up boxing but got into MMA because it’s the closest to street fighting. I still plan to do MMA. I just had back-to-back MMA fights that resulted in me breaking both hands. I needed surgery. The smaller gloves (in MMA) are different. I hit hard but I can’t hit as hard with MMA gloves. (Tyson) Fury, (Deontay) Wilder and others got me excited again about boxing.”

Xhema’s opponent, Almeida, is a popular, experienced New England-based MMA fighter (20-11) who will be fighting in front of his hometown friends and family from Framingham. He is winless in 13 pro boxing matches with three draws.

“I don’t know my opponent, but I respect him,” Xhema said. “I don’t care about records or what people say. They don’t matter It’s going to be a fun night and I’m definitely excited. I can’t wait to get in there and do what I love. Hey, I get excited going to spar.

“For a short time, I did kick boxing. I just love to fight!”

Framingham super featherweight Timmy Ramos (5-0-2, 5 KOs), a two-time New England Golden Gloves champion, faces Carlos Marrero, III (2-3-1), of Bridgeport, CT, in the 6-round main event.

Nearby Marlboro, MA lightweight Nelson “Chino” Perez (2-0, 2 KOs), another former N,.E. Golden Gloves champion, has a new opponent in battled-tested “Relentless” Agustine Mauras (6-7-3, 3 KOs), of Lawrence, MA, in a potentially explosive 6-round, co-featured event.

Boston heavyweight Tracey Johnson (4-7-6), whose brother is past Olympian and reigning WBO super middleweight champion Demetrius Andrade, meets Larry “Hitman” Pryor (11-22-5, 5 KOs) in a 6-round bout.

Revere, MA super middleweight Jarel “Sandman” Pemberton (3-0, 1 KO), also a N. E. Golden Gloves champion, takes on his Brazilian opponent, Leandro Silva (2-3, 2 KOs), in a 4-round match.

Also fighting on the undercard in a pair of 4-round fights is Southbridge, MA welterweight Wilfredo “El Sucaro” Pagan (6-1, 3 KOs) vs. Tyrone “Hands of Stone” Luckey (9-12-4, 7 KOs), and Worcester, MA super featherweight Ranse Andino (1-1) vs. Henry Garcia (0-5-1), of New Bedford, MA.

All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets prices are $75,.00 ringside (rows 1-3), $60.00 (seated), $45.00 standing room, and VIP tables (of 10) for $1000.00 and may be purchased HERE, at UpperKuts gym, or from any of the local fighters on the card.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET, first fight at 7 p.m. ET.

Street Light Ventures is the presenting sponsor. Other sponsors include Bernardi Auto Group, East Coast Herbalist, Tecate, Ashwood Advisors LLC, Baystate Engineering, Buzz Cuts, Northeast Chili, Clocktown Liquors, Needham Plumbing, Reiki Energy, Exposure Hair Design, Granite Chin Promotions, Pauley Advertising, and A Affordable Insurance.

INFORMATION:

Facebook.com/ShearnsBoxingPromotions

Twitter: @ShearnsBoxing, @UpperKutsBoxing, @sheratonframingham

Instagram: @ShearnsBoxingPromotions, @Upperkuts_boxing_club, @sheratonframingham

DETROIT – March 11, 2020 – Undefeated heavyweight power puncher Apti Davtaev talked about the skills he has developed while training at the famed Kronk Gym in Detroit as he prepares to take on veteran Lucas Browne in the 10-round co-main event live on SHOWTIME® (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT) Saturday, March 28 from Park Theater at Park MGM in Las Vegas in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

“Training in Detroit has made me stronger,” said Davtaev. “I have a fresh new look on boxing. I’m more confident and experienced, and my power has grown immensely. I’ve also become a more aggressive fighter. I go after opponents and try to finish them, rather than just beating them.

“Most of my day is taken up by training. We have a boxing session at Kronk in the morning, and I follow that up with cardio or strength and conditioning training in the evening. I will be in peak condition for this fight.”

Davtaev stepped in to face Browne after he was originally scheduled to face Otto Wallin, who withdrew because of an injury. However, Davtaev comes into the matchup already in fighting shape, having put together two knockout victories so far in 2020.

“Training is going well and I feel great fighting so regularly,” said Davtaev. “I’m definitely turning up the intensity for this important fight with Lucas Browne, but I was already in great shape. I fought in Moscow in February and before that in Atlantic City in January.”

The hard-hitting Browne presents the toughest opponent of Davtaev’s career so far, which has served to motivate the 30-year-old Russian heading into March 28.

“A victory over Lucas Browne is very important to me,” said Davtaev. “The heavyweight division is very exciting right now with many top names, and I believe I am one of them.

“I’ve only seen a few of Browne’s fights. He’s a tough experienced boxer. I have been looking for a step-up opponent for a very long time. It’ll be an exciting fight while it lasts. On March 28, I intend to put on a spectacular performance. The fans will love it.”

“The heavyweight landscape is changing at a rapid pace,” said Dmitriy Salita, Davtaev’s promoter. “I believe Apti has the size, power and skills to be a real force in the heavyweight division. He will have to put all of that on display to be victorious in his big test against Lucas Browne.”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Mayweather Promotions, are now on sale and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com. Davtaev vs. Browne is promoted in association with Salita Promotions.

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ABOUT NERY VS. ALAMEDA
Nery vs Alameda will see unbeaten former bantamweight world champion Luis Nery facing undefeated contender Aaron Alameda in a WBC Super Bantamweight Title Eliminator headlining live action on SHOWTIME Saturday, March 28 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Park Theater at Park MGM in Las Vegas.

The SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION® tripleheader begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features heavyweight contenders squaring off as undefeated heavyweight power puncher Apti Davtaev and Lucas Browne battle in a 10-round attraction in the co-main event, plus rising light heavyweights go toe-to-toe as Joseph George faces Marcos Escudero in a 10-round rematch.

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

Ukrainian pound-for-pound star Oleksandr Usyk will face British favourite Derek Chisora in a colossal Heavyweight clash at The O2 in London on Saturday May 23, live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK and DAZN in the US. 

Usyk (17-0, 13 KOs) made the move to Heavyweight after dominating at Cruiserweight, ending his extraordinary spell at 200lbs as the Undisputed king with a phenomenal run of victories in his opponents’ backyard against Marco Huck, Mairis Breidis, Murat Gassiev and Tony Bellew. 

The 2012 Olympic Gold medallist began his assault on the Heavyweight division by retiring Chazz Witherspoon in seven rounds at the Wintrust Arena in Chicago last October and continues his bid to become a two-weight World Champion when he faces an in-form Chisora (32-9, 23 KOs).

Former World Title challenger Chisora scored a devastating second round knockout over Poland’s Artur Szpilka at The O2 in July 2019, a year on from his incredible eighth round KO win against Carlos Takam at the same venue, before blitzing fellow Brit David Price in four rounds last October.

The famous Greenwich venue has become a lion’s den for Chisora in recent years, playing host to his last six fights, and the Finchley powerhouse is planning on giving Usyk nightmares in his first real test in the big boy division. 

“Boxing in Manchester in 2018 was an amazing experience, now I get to do it in London at the famous O2 Arena and I can’t wait to fight in front of the British fans once again,” said Usyk. “As a Cruiserweight, I reached the highest heights as Undisputed Champion and now I am following the same path as a Heavyweight.

“I expect a real test in Chisora – he is strong, tough and resilient. I recall being an amateur and watching his fight with Vitali Klitschko. It seemed so big and far away. Now I am myself taking a fight against Chisora. I am working hard in my training camp to show a spectacular performance on May 23^rd. Dear friends, I will see you soon!”

“WAR is coming,” said Chisora. “Usyk reckons he can step up and survive with the big boys. He may be the Undisputed Cruiserweight Champion of the World but on May 23^rd he will find out what it feels like to be hit by a real Heavyweight. He is coming to my backyard, I’m going to remind him exactly why he hid in the Cruiserweight division and also get revenge for my boy, Tony Bellew. This will be WAR.”

“This has the potential to be one of the great O2 nights – a Heavyweight blockbuster that can only be full of drama,” said Eddie Hearn. “Usyk, who has become a UK fans favourite in his own right, did it all at Cruiserweight, becoming Undisputed World Champion in just 15 fights.

“Now he attempts the same feat in the glamour division, with the big boys. Has he bitten off more than he can chew with Del Boy, who has consistently proved the doubters wrong and become one of the toughest, explosive Heavyweights in the game. Anything can happen on May 23, drop everything and don’t miss it!”

“This barn stormer fight against Usyk, the Mandatory Challenger for AJ’s WBO World title, has been talked about for more than six months,” said David Haye. “WAR Chisora had been written off by all the experts, in reality a couple of years ago people believed his career to be over and many still consider Chisora’s chances of victory on May 23^rd as minute, and who can blame them?

“Derek is a fighter with 9 losses on his professional record, who will be stepping in a ring with a former Undisputed Cruiserweight World Champion and 2012 Olympic Gold medallist – Usyk is a fighter found in everyone’s top five pound for pound list. On paper it’s mission impossible, but in reality, WAR Chisora is preparing to bring something Usyk has never seen before, an intensity from a rock solid 119kg wrecking machine, who will bulldoze his way to a victory in his hometown.”

“Oleksandr Usyk against Derek Chisora has all the ingredients for a classic Heavyweight clash,” said Adam Smith, Sky Sports’ Head of Boxing Development. Can the supremely talented Ukrainian withstand Chisora’s relentless aggression on a red-hot night at The O2? I’ve spoken to Chisora’s manager David Haye who is massively confident that his fighter will topple the former Undisputed Cruiserweight king.

“We know all about Usyk’s class, having witnessed his dramatic battle with Tony Bellew at Manchester Arena – and a certain Anthony Joshua will be keeping a close eye on a potential foe for the future. We’ve got a real Heavyweight line-up in the coming weeks, with Dillian Whyte’s explosive encounter against Alexander Povetkin, Usyk‘s risky showdown with Chisora and then AJ takes centre stage for his huge World Title fight against Kubrat Pulev.”

Tickets for Usyk vs. Chisora are priced £40, £60, £80, £100, £150, £200, £400 and £800 (VIP).
 
Presale tickets will be available to purchase for O2 Priority Members from midday on Thursday March 12 via The O2 (www.theo2.co.uk)
 
FightPass tickets will be available to purchase for Matchroom Boxing FightPass members from midday on Friday March 13 via StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk) and Matchroom Boxing (www.matchroomboxing.com)
 
Venue presale tickets will also be available from midday on Friday March 13 via The O2 (www.theo2.co.uk).
 
General Sale tickets will be available to purchase from midday on Saturday March 14 via StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk), The O2 (www.theo2.co.uk) and Matchroom Boxing (www.matchroomboxing.com).

NATHAN GORMAN believes Joe Joyce is capable of upsetting Daniel Dubois in their huge Heavyweight clash, despite what cousin Tyson Fury believes.

Gorman famously felt the power of Dubois, getting knocked out in five rounds, when they met for the vacant British championship last July.

Like the Great British public, Gorman cannot wait for Dubois (14-0, 13 KOs) and Joyce (10-0, 9 KOs) to settle their rivalry at London’s o2 Arena on Saturday April 11, live on BT Sport Box Office.

The winner of the titanic ‘Seek and Destroy’ tussle will close in on world champions Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua, as well as banking the British, Commonwealth, European, WBC Silver and WBO International titles.

Gorman, who will return to action on the undercard of Josh Taylor’s Glasgow return on May 2nd said: “It’s an exciting fight.

I think it’s 50-50 and it is wrong that some people appear to be writing off Joyce for this fight.”

He added: “Don’t get me wrong. If Daniel hits him he is going to do some damage, but you have to remember Joyce is 19 stone plus and if he hits Daniel he hurts him.”

Nathan might have lost to Dubois when it mattered in the ring, but he has also sparred plenty of rounds with Joyce over the years.

“Joyce has been competing as a high end amateur, he is 30 plus and a man. He can fight!” said Gorman.

“I sparred with him at David Haye’s gym and also in Sheffield at the Team GB camp. He has come on leaps and bounds. We know about his size, but I was impressed with his strength and workrate for such a huge man. He is very, very fit.

“I’d imagine Joyce might be careful early on, but he is one of those fighters who can also jump all over Daniel, make it awkward and smother his space.”

Gorman has never offered any excuses for his defeat against Dubois, but believes the secret weapon is more than Daniel’s fight ending power.

The Nantwich man holds Daniel’s trainer Martin Bowers in high esteem and added: “I knew how strong Daniel was going into the fight and he does the basics very well – the jab, the 1-2, the 1-2-hook and is good with his feet.

Martin Bowers had a very good game plan and Daniel will need the same from him in this fight coming up.
Credit where it’s due, Martin is a very good trainer.”

In the chief support Ilford’s Anthony Yarde will challenge Manchester’s Commonwealth Light-Heavyweight champion Lyndon Arthur in a brilliant 50-50 clash.

Other fighters on the bill include David Adeleye, Dennis McCann, Archie Sharp and Hamzah Sheeraz. Another title fight on the bill sees a rematch between British Welterweight Champion Chris Jenkins and Johnny Garton.

Tickets are now on sale via AXS.com and Ticketmaster.co.uk

Ticket Prices:

£400 Ringside – Hospitality
£300 Floor
£200 Floor
£150 Floor/Tier
£100 Tier
£80 Tier
£55 Upper Tier
£40 Upper Tier