Las Vegas (March 11, 2020) – Undefeated WBC lightweight world champion, Devin “The Dream” Haney has confirmed that he will appear at the sixth annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday, May 2, 2020, at the Cox Pavilion in Las Vegas from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Haney will hold a Meet & Greet with his fans at his booth during the fan event held over the Cinco De Mayo weekend.

The Boxing Expo will also take place before the return of Boxing’s Superstar Canelo Alvarez, who will be participating in a mega fight, later that evening at the T-Mobile arena.

The Box Fan Expo is an annual fan event that coincides with some of the sports’ legendary, classic fights in Las Vegas, including Mayweather vs. Maidana II, Mayweather vs. Berto, Canelo vs. Chavez Jr., Canelo vs. GGG II, and Canelo vs. Jacobs. Centered in boxing’s longtime home – Las Vegas – this year’s Expo is a must-do for fight fans coming in for this legendary weekend, with dozens of professional fighters, promoters, and companies involved in the boxing industry. The Expo is the largest and only Boxing Fan Expo held in the United States. http://boxfanexpo.com- @BoxFanExpo

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available online at:
https://bitly.com/BoxingExpo2020

Haney will make his second appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and memorabilia. Haney will also have merchandise to sell for fans to enjoy. Boxing Fans will have an opportunity to also take pictures with the youngest champion and one of the brightest boxing stars of today, also known as “The Dream”. Haney is considered by many as one of the best fighters in the world today.

Haney joins Mikey Garcia, Roy Jones Jr., Erik Morales, Michael Spinks and Jessie Vargas as an early commitment to this year’s Box Fan Expo, with more Boxing stars to be announced.

About Devin Haney
On September 13th, 2019, Haney won the WBC interim lightweight title by defeating Zaur Abdullaev at the Hulu Theater in Madison Square Garden in New York city. Shortly after, Haney got elevated as the New WBC lightweight champion. Haney successfully defended his new title versus Alfrdeo Santiago on November 9, 2019. With an undefeated record of 24 fights, 15 of them by KO, since his debut on December 11, 2015, Haney is quickly becoming one of the new faces of boxing and already a top boxing attraction.

A young man who has dedicated his life to the sport since he was seven years old, he has won 7 national championships as an amateur, shaping a record of 130-8. He became the youngest member of the national Junior Team and was the youngest boxer to win the Junior World Championship in Nevada. On January 11, Haney took another significant step towards becoming a world champion, by defeating South Africa’s Xolisani Ndongeni by a wide unanimous decision in 10 rounds, in the main event of a card at the StageWorks in Shreveport, Louisiana and capturing the WBC International and WBO Inter-Continental lightweight Titles. Haney was born in San Francisco, and raised in Oakland, California, but has been living in Las Vegas since he was 7 years old and he’s managed by his father William Haney. Devin knows that this is only the beginning of a brilliant career, hoping, planning and working hard to become the next boxing idol.

About Box Fan Expo
Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet the stars of boxing that represent the past, present and future of the sport. With hosted autograph signings, meet-and-greets with current and former boxing world champions, limited edition merchandise for sale, giveaways and more, this is the ultimate event for fans of the sport.

Past boxing stars that have participated include: Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Sugar Ray Leonard, Julio Cesar Chavez, Juan Manuel Marquez, Tommy Hearns, Roy Jones Jr, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, Andre Ward, Mikey Garcia, Marcos Maidana, Devin Haney, David Benavidez, Errol Spence Jr, Sergio Martinez, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Tim Bradley, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Shawn Porter, Fernando Vargas, Abner Mares, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Vinny Paz, Mia St.John, Leo Santa Cruz, Badou Jack, Terry Norris, Riddick Bowe, Earnie Shavers, Michael & Leon Spinks, Danny Jacobs, Claressa Shields, Teofimo Lopez, Brandon Rios, Jorge Linares, and many more.

Exhibitors include boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry as a whole.

Throughout the next few months leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo.

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –
http://boxfanexpo.eventbrite.com/

NEW YORK – March 11, 2020 – Undefeated three-division world champion Claressa Shields will attempt to become the first boxer in the four-belt era to become an undisputed world champion in two weight divisions when she faces unbeaten IBF Super Welterweight Champion Marie-Eve Dicaire in a 154-pound unification bout on Saturday, May 9, live on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from the Dort Federal Credit Union Event Center in Shields’ hometown of Flint, Mich.

The winner of the SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION main event will walk away with Shields’ WBC and WBO titles, Dicaire’s IBF belt, and the WBA (Super) crown. This is the first time in its 99-year history that the WBA has awarded a Super Champion belt to a female boxer. 

Tickets for the Salita Promotions event start at $35 and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com and at the Dort Federal Credit Union Event Center box office.

“I can’t wait to make history again on May 9,” said Shields. “Fighting in Flint in front of all my fans has been a dream of mine since turning pro. Having the opportunity to make history by fighting for the undisputed title in a second weight division is something I’m very proud of.  Fighting against undefeated IBF 154-pound champion Marie-Eve Dicaire continues my quest to fight the very best in women’s boxing. And headlining on SHOWTIME again will continue my goal to lift women’s boxing to new heights.  I’m going to give Flint and fight fans all over the world a night to remember on May 9!”

“I am very excited for this opportunity and it is an honor to face an opponent like Claressa Shields,” said Dicaire. “I am thankful to my promoter Yvon Michel and everyone involved in making this possible. For me, this is a dream come true. I will be prepared the best I can be and I am ready to leave everything in the ring to win the fight!”

In the four-belt era, only seven fighters have been undisputed in one division, including Shields, Katie Taylor, Cecilia Braekhus, Bernard Hopkins, Jermain Taylor, Terence Crawford, and Oleksandr Usyk.

 On January 10 in Atlantic City, N.J., Shields made history by claiming the WBC and WBO 154-pound world championships with a dominating unanimous decision over Ivana Habazin. Shields became the fastest fighter in history, male or female, to win world titles in three different weight divisions, surpassing the records of Vasiliy Lomachenko and Kosei Tanaka, who both accomplished the feat in 12 fights.

The 24-year-old Shields (10-0, 2 KOs) overpowered Habazin from the opening bell, utilizing a strong jab and a steady diet of body shots that left the Croatian mostly in defensive mode throughout the 10-round fight.  In the sixth round, a series of body shots forced Habazin to take a knee in the first knockdown of her career. 

“SHOWTIME has a long history of featuring the best in women’s combat sports, whether it was with Gina Carrano, Cris Cyborg and Ronda Rousey in MMA, or Laila Ali and Christy Martin in boxing,” said Gordon Hall, Executive Producer of SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION. “More recently, we have shown Claressa Shields, Christina Hammer, Lightweight Champion Katie Taylor and seven-division champion Amanda Serrano. Shields vs. Dicaire will be our 12th women’s boxing event since 2017. Claressa’s bout with Dicaire represents another historic battle of unbeatens and attempt for another ‘first’ on SHOWTIME as Claressa looks to become undisputed in two weight classes.”

“I am excited to bring a historic night of boxing to fans in Flint at the Dort Federal Credit Union Event Center and to those watching on SHOWTIME,” said Dmitriy Salita, President of Salita Promotions. “In Claressa Shields and Marie-Eve Dicaire, we have the two best junior middleweights in the world and two undefeated champions fighting for the undisputed world championship.  In addition to her already historic list of firsts, if victorious, Claressa will become the first two-division undisputed champion in the four-belt era. It will be a triumphant night in Flint on May 9.”

After becoming the first American boxer in history – male or female – to win two consecutive Olympic Gold Medals, Shields turned professional following the 2016 Olympics and headlined the first women’s boxing main event in premium cable television history in just her second professional fight in 2017. Shields, who will be headlining for the seventh time on SHOWTIME, now has her sights on making even more history.

“Claressa Shields continues to be a beacon of light and a trailblazer for women’s boxing, women’s sports, and boxing overall,” said Mark Taffet, Shields’ manager. “Being the only American to win back-to-back Olympic Gold in boxing, having won world titles in three weight divisions faster than any man or woman in boxing history, and now having the chance to be the first person – man or woman – to be an undisputed champion in two weight divisions in the four-belt era, Claressa will continue to add to her list of legendary, unprecedented and history-making accomplishments come May 9.  I’m proud to be a part of her journey.”

The 33-year-old Dicaire (17-0) is from Saint-Eustache, Quebec, Canada, and started karate at the age of six. She worked her way up through the ranks until she obtained her black belt. After winning five world championship titles, Dicaire turned her attention to boxing and won the IBF Super Welterweight World Championship belt in December 2018 dethroning by decision the Uruguayan Chris Namus at the Quebec City Videotron Center. In her last fight in November of 2019, Dicaire defended her title for the third time beating experienced Venezuelan Ogleidis Suarez by unanimous decision. Dicaire will be fighting outside of the province of Quebec for the first time on May 9 and will be looking to score the upset victory in front of Shields’ hometown fans.

“Marie-Eve Dicaire against Claressa Shields, a battle of two undefeated champions for all the titles – you can’t get a better match in boxing,” said Yvon Michel, Dicaire’s promoter, President of GYM. “We have great respect and admiration for all Shields has accomplished but there is no doubt Marie-Eve is the most skilled, strong and dedicated opponent Claressa has faced. We are very confident that all the belts will come back to Canada with us. Thanks to Salita Promotions and SHOWTIME for the opportunity. Marie-Eve Dicaire will provide a great fight for the fans and viewers.”

Barry Tompkins will call the SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION 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.

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports.  Follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing

WORCESTER, Mass. (March 11, 2020) – Fresh off his sensational hometown debut last month, Jamaine “The Technician” Ortiz (13-0, 7 KOs) is in the middle of a developmental process that is, hopefully, headed to the top of the 135-pound division by 2022.

The 23-year-old Ortiz, who will abdicate his World Boxing Council (WBC) Youth World lightweight title next month when he turns 24 because he’ll be overage, headlined a Classic Entertainment and Sports (CES) show February 28th at the famed Palladium in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Despite fighting for the first time in six months, Ortiz showed no signs of rust, forcing Mexican knockout specialist “Loco” Luis Ronaldo Castillo (22-6, 17 KOs), a former WBC FECOMBOX lightweight champion, to take a knee after landing a crisp uppercut and then finishing him off later in the second round with three overhand rights.

Ortiz, rated No. 16 by the North American Boxing Federation (NABF), gained invaluable exposure headlining the CES event, which was streamed live and exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports.

“There was no reason of any rust,” Ortiz explained. “I had been working hard in the gym for several months, where I always do my best. Maybe the bright lights (fighting at home for the first time) affected me a little? It was a little different going through the fans (on his ring walk) to get to the ring (on stage). I picture much bigger things in my future, so I can’t let small stuff like that put me off my game. But I settled in quickly and felt comfortable.

“I hit him with a good uppercut to the jaw. I figured he’d get up, because he had a late reaction when he went down, but I knew it was over when I hit him with three overhand rights. I really hurt him with the last punch as he was going down. I didn’t say it publicly, but I told some people that I would knock him out in the second round, and I did what I said I’d do. I knew early that it was only going to be a matter of time.”

Ortiz displayed his lightning quick hands and feet, also switching effortlessly from orthodox to southpaw, Jamaine plans to return to work next week as a union carpenter and he’s already started running before he gets back in the gym.

A decorated amateur who had an impressive 100-14 record, highlighted by consecutive New England Golden Gloves titles in 2015 & 2016, as well as a silver medal at the 2015 National Golden Gloves Tournament (he lost to current IBF World lightweight champion Teofimo Lopez in the championship final) and reaching the semifinals of the 2016 U.S. Olympic Trials, Ortiz is a potential star on the rise.

Because he’s only 23 there is no legitimate reason to push Ortiz at this stage of his young pro career when his developmental process is in gear. First up is his initially scheduled 10-round fight, possibly for a regional title, likely against an accomplished, experienced opponent who will give Jamaine invaluable rounds (he only has 52 rounds under his belt).

In 2021, the dream is for Ortiz to headline a major show at home in Worcester with world-ratings implications, at the new home of the Boston Red Sox’ AAA organization at Polar Park, which is being constructed now for an estimate construction cost of $100-million.

If all goes according to plans, Ortiz will challenge for a world title in 2022, at the latest.
The Ortiz Process has commenced with the goal of eventually developing him into a world titlist. Patience, though, is the key to building a champion!

Team Sauerland’s exciting contender Abass Baraou (9-0, 6 KOs) will defend his WBC International Super Welterweight title against his countryman Nick Klappert (28-3, 15 KOs) at the Work Your Champ Arena on April 4th in Hamburg, Germany. 

Baraou’s tenth professional contest will be the first under the guidance of his new trainer Adam Booth, having moved from Berlin to the UK to link up with the highly regarded coach at the new Boxing Booth Gym in Surrey, England.

The 25-year-old will be headlining in Hamburg for the second time this year having topped the bill against Abraham Juarez on January 25th where he delivered a devastating performance that saw the Mexican retire on his stool after four brutal rounds.

“I am very happy to be boxing again in Hamburg and also live on SPORT1,” said Baraou. “I want to claim my tenth victory in my tenth fight, and I will remain undefeated. My opponent is of course experienced, but he won’t stop me on my way to the top! Everyone can definitely look forward to a great fight.”

Klappert enters the ring off the back of a career best performance in Hamburg in November that saw him overcome Antonio Hoffman to pick up the IBO Continental Super Welterweight title, and will be hoping to build on this success as he goes in search of his twenty-ninth professional win.

“I’m working hard and I’ve had excellent preparation for the fight,” said Klappert. “We don’t underestimate anyone but I’m looking forward to getting back in the ring and fighting in Hamburg.”

Chief support on April 4th at the Work Your Champ Arena in Hamburg comes from IBF European Middleweight Champion Denis Radovan (13-0-1, 6 KOs). 18-year-old Sophie Alisch (5-0, 1 KOs) is also in action as she looks to build on a fantastic debut year, and James Kraft (17-0-1, 9 KOs) challenges Dimitar Tilev (11-0, 7 KOs) for the IBF Junior World Super Middleweight title.

All the action will be broadcast live on SPORT1 in Germany.

Sampson Boxing proudly announces the signing of super lightweight knockout puncher Roiman “Flaco de Oro” Villa to a promotional contract.

26-year-old Villa (21-1, 21 KOs) hails from Baranquita, Venezuela. He started boxing at age six and went on to compile an amateur record of 138-9 and was a five-time national champion.

Villa says he first noticed his sensational power as a youngster.

“In the amateurs in Venezuela, I noticed the different effect my punches had compared to the other fighters. I’m gifted with a lot of power. That’s why I fight going forward all the time. I’m always looking for the knockout opportunity.”

Villa turned professional in 2015 and has been blasting out his South American competition. His lone trip to Mexico to fight led to him dropping a controversial decision to a Mexican fighter and to a desire to find solid promotional representation.

“Sampson is a promoter with hard-to-find values,” said Villa. “We are sure that his remarkable experience is critical to my dream of giving boxing fans a real show in the United States and becoming world champion. That’s the reason I’ve worked hard my entire career.”

“The boxing world will not know what hit them when Villa makes his US TV debut this year,” said Sampson Lewkowicz. “He is an exciting and fearless puncher who can knock out anyone he can hit. His style is made for television and the fans in America are going to love him.”

Lewkowicz says fans’ first look at the Venezuelan bomber will be announced shortly.
About Sampson Boxing

Sampson Boxing has promotional partners all over North and South America, Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe and Central America. Sampson Boxing events have been televised on such premiere networks as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, ESPN+, DAZN, VS., FOX, Fox Sports and several international networks. For more information, visit sampsonboxing.com.

PHILADELPHIA, PA —Unbeaten heavyweight prospects Elvis “Semental” Garcia, of Jalisco, Mexico, and Sahret “The Hammer” Delgado, of Humacao, Puerto Rico, square off in an attractive eight-round co-feature on the Philly Special fight card, scheduled for Friday, March 27, at the 2300 Arena in South Philadelphia.

The Raging Babe card is topped by the highly anticipated Philly vs. Philly matchup: Stevie Ortiz vs. Damon Allen, in a 10-round bout for Ortiz’ Pennsylvania State Lightweight Title. The card will be televised live on the Impact Network. Garcia vs. Delgado is presented in association with DiBella Entertainment.

“I’m excited to announce that we’ve added a great co-feature to Raging Babe’s Philly Special, in association with DiBella Entertainment. Mexican American Elvis Garcia takes on Puerto Rican Sahret Delgado in a rare clash of rising, unbeaten heavyweight prospects. Both fighters are coming in with stellar amateur backgrounds,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Prior to this training camp, Elvis worked as one of Anthony Joshua’s chief sparring partners for the Andy Ruiz rematch and Delgado has a great corner behind him, lead by coach Chino Rivas, who also trains Stevie Ortiz and Tevin Farmer.”

The 30-year-old Garcia, now living in Indio, CA, is 8-0, 5 KOs, as a pro. Trained by Joel Diaz, Garcia returns to the ring following a victory against Hugo Trujillo in Hollywood, CA.

Garcia also gained invaluable experience working as the “secret weapon sparring partner” that promoter Eddie Hearn referred to with regard to Anthony Joshua’s preparation for his rematch against Andy Ruiz last year. Joshua went on to decisively defeat Ruiz to regain his world title belts.

Prior to turning pro nearly three years ago, Garcia was an outstanding amateur with a record of 85-10, 42 KOs. After winning gold at the Washington State Golden Gloves, as well as a silver and two bronze medals at the USA National Tournaments, Garcia moved to Tijuana, Mexico, where he won the Mexican National Championships and the Mexican Golden Gloves Tournament twice.

The 25-year-old Delgado, living in Berlin, NJ, is 8-0, 7 KOs, as a pro. In his last fight on October 4, at the 2300 Arena, Delgado outpointed Joel Caudle over four rounds. Now trained by Chino Rivas, Delgado is a stablemate of headliner Steven Ortiz and former junior lightweight world champions Tevin Farmer and Jason Sosa.  

Delgado was a standout amateur in Puerto Rico with over 215 bouts as part of his six-year term with the Puerto Rican Olympic Team. He was the country’s National Youth Champion for three straight years and also won gold at international tournaments in Ecuador, Dominican Republic and Trinidad & Tobago.

The card kicks off at 7:30pm ET on Friday, March 27. Tickets, priced at $50, $75 and $125, are on sale now, and can be purchased by visiting 2300arena.com or by calling (267) 273-0945.

WORLD Heavyweight King Tyson Fury has edged towards Daniel Dubois winning the battle of the British big boys when he faces Joe Joyce next month.

Dubois (14-0, 13 KOs) and Joyce (10-0, 9KOs) clash at London’s O2 Arena on Saturday April 11, Live on BT Sport Box Office.The winner of the 12 round Heavyweight showdown between the London rivals will be closing in on Fury and will go home with the British, Commonwealth, European, WBC Silver and WBO International title belts.

Like most fight fans, WBC World, Lineal and Ring Magazine Champion Fury is struggling to pick a winner and admits: “I have changed my mind on this fight a few times.”

Fury, who has trained with both boxers, feels the youth of 22-year-old Dubois is likely to prove an advantage come fight night.

He explained: “I have sparred both lads and it’s a good fight. They both have qualities and they both have weaknesses.

“But, after really analysing the situation, I think Dubois gets him early. Dubois is younger, fresher, punches very hard and is on a real roll at the moment.”

Most pundits believe that Joyce’s best hope of winning comes late on and Fury agrees, telling IFL TV: “If Joe can survive the early onslaught and take him into deep waters then he could win.”

“Joe starts slow, is like a plodder and goes at one pace all the way through. If he gets into seven rounds he could do it by late stoppage.”

“But, these are lads in the gym every day. They’re not gonna get tired and gas out after five rounds.

“It’s not like he (Dubois) is a fat fella who does no training. He is ripped, he trains every day like a trojan and he is a very good prospect.”

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.

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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

Former super bantamweight world champion Scott Quigg announced his retirement, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

“I’ve achieved everything my desire, dedication and ability would take me to and I can walk away with my head held high! Thank you to everyone for the tremendous support over the years.

“When all is said and done, as long as you can look yourself in the mirror and know you gave it everything, you can never have any regrets.”

“Well done mate — you are a great example not just to fighters but to us all about hard work ethic, drive and determination,” Hearn wrote. “Now to enjoy your life!”

Right after the fight, Quigg hinted at retirement, saying, “As soon as I got in there, it didn’t feel like it was there. I was just chasing it. I’m a realist and I don’t kid anyone. This was a must-win fight. At my peak I would have won tonight. In my day, he wouldn’t have lived with me. On this performance, I don’t know what’s left. I gave it everything and I want to support everyone who has come out to support me. I couldn’t have achieved anymore. I’ve been world champion and had a great career. And if this is it, thank you, everyone.”

LAS VEGAS, NV (March 10, 2020) – An illustrious cast of boxing legends were inducted into the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame today at the Fernando Vargas Fighting Foundation in Las Vegas. The 8th Annual Induction Weekend happens August 7th & 8th, 2020 at Red Rock Casino Resort and Spa in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The 2020 Induction Class includes:

Fernando “El Feroz” Vargas (26-5, 22 KO’s)
Las Vegas resident Fernando “El Feroz” Vargas is a multiple-time champion who won his first title when he fought and defeated Yory Boy Campas. Vargas would go on to battle “Sugar” Shane Mosley, Oscar De La Hoya, Winky Wright, and Felix “Tito” Trinidad to name a few.

Clarence “Bones” Adams (44-7-4, 20 KOs)
Las Vegas boxing trainer and world champion, Clarence “Bones” Adams. Known for his all-action style, Adams captured the WBA super bantamweight world title March 4, 2000, at the Mandalay Bay with his big win over Nestor Garza. Throughout his career, Adams also had memorable fights with the likes of Kevin Kelley and back to back wars with world champion Paulie Ayala.

Andre “SOG” Ward (32-0, 16 KOs)
The last male fighter to capture US Gold in Olympic Boxing and arguably one of the greatest American boxers in the history of the sport, Andre “SOG” Ward can now add the title of Hall of Famer to his resume. Ward held multiple titles in two separate weight classes including the unified WBA, WBC, and Ring Magazine Lineal Light Heavyweight Title. Ward ended his professional career undefeated beating the likes of Sergey Kovalev, Mikkel Kessler, Chad Dawson, and Carl Froch.

James “Lights Out” Toney (77-10-3, 47 KOs)
Fighting nearly 100 professional bouts in his career while never being stopped, James “Lights Out” Toney will be inducted into the 2020 NVBHOF class. Toney who fought in Nevada fourteen times had numerous memorable wins beating big names such Evander Holyfield, Iran Barkley, Micheal Nunn, and Vissiliy Jirov and took on several others including Roy Jones Jr. and John Ruiz respectfully while being named Ring Magazine fighter of the year in 1991 and 2003.

Miguel Cotto (41-6, 33 KOs)
Puerto Rico’s first four-division world champion, Miguel Cotto’s tremendous work history in the squared circle is second to none and joins this year’s star-studded NVBHOF class. Cotto known for being a true boxer-puncher fought everyone including Canelo, Floyd Mayweather, Sergio Martinez, Chop-Chop Corley, Manny Pacquiao, Zab Judah, Antonio Margarito and Shane Mosley throughout his journey in the sport.

Mark “Too Sharp” Johnson (44-5-1, 28 KOs)
The first African American fighter to capture a World Flyweight Title, Mark “Too Sharp” Johnson is a familiar name in boxing community as Johnson won titles at flyweight and super flyweights defeating the likes of Fernando and Alejandro Montiel. Johnson captured his first title after stopping Francisco Tejedor in the 1st round of their championship fight in Anaheim, May 4th, 1996.

Julian “The Hawk” Jackson (55-6, 49 KOs)
Known as “The Hawk” Julian Jackson has held world titles in the jr. middleweight and middleweight divisions and has been considered one of the hardest punchers in the history of the sport. Fighting 18-times in Nevada, Jackson quickly became a local favorite but is most recognized for his knockout victories over “Terrible” Terry Norris and the UK “Bomber” Herol Graham.

Azumah “The Professor” Nelson (39-6-2, 28 KOs)
Arguably one of the greatest fighters to ever come out of Africa and undoubtedly Ghana’s top pound for pound fighter of all time, Azumah “The Professor” Nelson made his splash in the boxing world when he was called in as a late substitute, and gave the legendary world champion Salvador Sanchez all he could handle before being stopped in the 15th and final round of their 1982 world title fight. Nelson would go on to stun and stop Wilfredo Gomez, to take Gomez’s WBC featherweight title. Throughout his legendary career, Nelson would have wars with the likes of Jeff Fenech, Jesse James Leija, and Gabriel Ruelas.

Danny “Little Red” Lopez (42-6, 39 KOs)
A huge favorite in Southern California and regularly fighting at the Olympic Auditorium and, later, the Forum, “Little Red” Lopez packed dynamite in his gloves. Lopez won his first 21 fights in a row by knockout and during his career took on the likes of the great Bobby Chacon, Sean O’Grady and fought back to back matches with the legendary Salvador Sanchez. Lopez captured his first featherweight title in the fall of 1976 in front of over 100,000 screaming fans in Ghana, Africa, as he defeated WBC World Champion David Kotey.

Jose Luis Castillo (66-13-1, 57 KOs)
A true Mexican warrior Jose Luis Castillo climbed through the ropes of rings in his home country for the first ten years of his career. In September 2000, Castillo surprised Steve Johnston winning a majority decision to claim the WBC lightweight title. Castillo had memorable fights with Floyd Mayweather Jr., Juan Lazcano, and Joel Casamayor but will always be remembered with his wars with the great Diego “Chico” Corrales.

Non-Boxer Inductees includes,

Carlos Padilla- Earned high marks as the 3rd man in Ali-Frazier “Thrilla in Manila” after which he migrated to Las Vegas. He worked as a bartender at Caesar’s Palace and became a top-ranked international referee. Among the renowned boxers he was able to officiate were Lennard, Duran, Hagler, Arguello, Tyson, Holyfield, Holmes, Spinks, Foreman and other champions.

Lorenzo Fertitta- Commissioner with the Nevada State Athletic Commission from 1996 to 2000, a particular tumultuous era for the NSAC inasmuch as it included the Tyson Holyfield “Bite Fight” and subsequent investigations. Chairman of the Red Rock Casino, former CEO of the UFC, and philanthropist. Graduate of Bishop Gorman High School and huge supporter of all sports in Nevada including Boxing.

Sammy Macias- Former Chairman of and a Commissioner with the Nevada Athletic Commission, member of the Board of Governors and Continental Americas Championship Chairman for the WBC, President and a long time Executive Board member of the NABF, boxer, promoter and judge. Macias wrote many of the rules of modern day boxing which are still in use today.

Jose Sulaiman- President of the WBC for over 40 years. He established the Jose Sulaiman Boxer Fund that is administered by a Nevada Community Trust that has helped hundreds of fighters financially on an annual basis. Humanitarian that has helped many people around the world with his WBC Cares organization. Sulaiman is a boxing Icon that has helped change the sport of boxing in many areas in and outside of the ring.

Also being recognized is the 2019 NVBHOF Fighter of the Year, Prospect of the Year and Amateur of the Year. Honoring their accomplishments throughout 2019.

2019 Fighter of the Year – Devin Haney (24-0, 14 KO’s)
Won all 4 bouts in 2019 and became the youngest active world Champion.

2019 Prospect of the Year – Rolando “Rolly” Romero (11-0, 10 KOs)
Won all 4 bouts in spectacular style while demonstrating unlimited potential.

2019 NVBHOF Amateur of the Year – Rahim Gonzales
Top 10 ranked amateur in 3 different weight classes, #1 at 178 and qualified for the US Olympic Team.

The Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame is an IRS 501 (c)3 charity and all donations are tax-deductible. The Hall’s charitable contributions over the seven years since its formation have helped many Nevada based boxing-related causes. Monetary and in-kind donations are welcome. The Hall was founded in 2013 by noted boxing broadcaster Rich Marotta.

Miami, FL – March 10, 2020 – Boxeo Telemundo, the #1 Spanish-language boxing program in the U.S., wraps up its first season of 2020 this Friday, March 13 at 11:35 p.m. ET, live on Telemundo, featuring two flyweights as they battle for the vacant WBC International title. Adrian “Gatico” Curiel will square off against former “Cinturon De Oro” champion Hugo “Verdugo” Guarneros, live from Mexico City.

Curiel (15-3 3 KOs) seeks his second title after winning the silver flyweight FECARBOX WBC Championship in 2019. On the other side of the ring, Guarnero (16-3-2 8 KOs) will be looking to secure his first title after a tough bout against Sunny Edwards in London last year, the only time he has fought outside of Mexico.

Boxeo Telemundo commentators René Giraldo and Edgar López will call the action alongside World Boxing Champion and former Olympian Abner Mares.

The event will be broadcast live on Telemundo and live stream on Telemundo Deportes En Vivo app with additional extensive news and content on TelemundoDeportes.com, including access to the weigh-in and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. In addition, short form content that include fighters, behind the scenes and news will be produced exclusively for Telemundo Deportes’ social media platforms using the hashtag #BoxeoTelemundo.

The co-main event of the night includes WBC Latino champion Denilson Jair Valtierra (9-0 5 KOs) squaring off against former NABF Jr. lightweight champion Jose Eduardo Hernandez Rizo (7-3-3 3 KOs) in a lightweight division bout.

The night will also feature Mexican native Juan Antonio “El Zurdo” Rodríguez (31-8 27 KOs) as he faces gatekeeper Jose Andres Periban (9-6-1) in an 8-round bout.

Boxeo Telemundo will return to Telemundo in May presenting four additional live events as part of the show’s expansion to four installments in 2020, presenting more fights than ever on Telemundo with a total of 16 events on the schedule.

Debuting in 1989, “Boxeo Telemundo” has grown to become the #1 boxing sports program in the U.S. among Hispanics, across broadcast and cable landscape. Since its launch, “Boxeo Telemundo” has broadcast over 350 title fights, showcasing some of the biggest boxing stars as they rose to stardom and won their first championship titles, earning a reputation as the show “where champions are born.” Among these stars is Saúl Canelo Alvarez, who won his first pro boxing title on “Boxeo Telemundo” in 2008. Other notable Champions featured include?Juan Manuel Marquez,?Diego Corrales, Carlos Maussa,? Floyd Mayweather,? Israel Vázquez,? Wilfredo Vázquez,? Rafael Ruelas,? Jorge Solis and many others. In addition, renowned boxing Hall of Famers have also appeared on the show including? Erik Morales,? Marco Antonio Barrera and?Felix Trinidad.?

RIVERSIDE, CA. (March 10, 2020) – “Madman” Marcos Hernandez will look to put himself back into contention for a world title when he takes on hard-hitting James Kirkland in the FS1 PBC Fight Night main event and on FOX Deportes this Saturday, March 14 from MGM National Harbor in Maryland.

A Fresno, California native, Hernandez (14-3-1, 3 KOs) has made improvements in his most recent training camp with head coach Henry Ramirez that he believes will help him get by Kirkland and leap forward in his career.

“I’ve had a great camp and for the first time in my career I’ve added a strength and conditioning coach,” said Hernandez. “I’m constantly in the gym with Henry Ramirez working hard every single day. I was super focused going into this camp, since I know this is a major opportunity to get me back in line for a world title shot. I know I have to take this seriously.

“Some people may have doubted me based on past fights, but that is only fueling my motivation. I miss my family a lot, but I know to be great, I have to do what it takes to go to the next level.”

For Hernandez, the veteran contender Kirkland represents the most notable opponent of the 26-year-old’s pro career, which dates back to 2013, while Kirkland has fought professionally since 2001 while compiling a knockout ratio over 80%.

“James Kirkland is a notorious fighter known for his power, but his time has come and gone,” said Hernandez. “This is a great opportunity for me since Kirkland is a popular fighter and when I beat him, people will take notice. I watched Kirkland growing up and I have studied his mistakes. Kirkland only has one style, but I have many. This will be a great fight for the fans because both of us have our backs against the wall and must win.”

Hernandez has faced a slew of fellow young contenders while competing four times on FS1 leading up to his first main event this Saturday night.

“I have been featured on many televised cards, but to actually get promoted to the main event on a great network like FS1 and with PBC, it just shows my hard work is paying off,” said Hernandez. “I am thankful to my team and everyone who’s put effort into my professional career. I’m grateful for this opportunity and I’m going to leave everything in the ring.”

Included in Hernandez’s exciting battles against fellow contenders are a pair of matchups against current unified 154-pound champion Jeison Rosario. Hernandez and Rosario fought to a draw in their first matchup before Rosario scored a victory in their February 2019 rematch. With a win on Saturday, Hernandez has his eyes on a trilogy for his first world title opportunity.

“When I win, I want to get back in there with unified champion Jeison Rosario,” said Hernandez. “I have fought Rosario twice already and the first time was a draw. I have unfinished business with him. I need to make a big statement and have a highlight-reel performance this Saturday night. I believe I can fight him this year. The fight would be a trilogy and who doesn’t like trilogies in boxing?”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting www.mgmnationalharbor.com/.

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ABOUT KIRKLAND VS. HERNANDEZ
Kirkland vs. Hernandez will see hard-hitting James Kirkland taking on all-action “Madman” Marcos Hernández in a 10-round middleweight showdown headlining FS1 PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, March 14 from MGM National Harbor in Maryland.

FS1 PBC Fight Night begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features unbeaten top prospect and 2016 Lithuanian Olympian Eimantas Stanionis faces Justin DeLoach in the 10-round welterweight co-main event and undefeated hard-hitting prospect Jonathan “El Diamante” Esquivel battling Colombia’s Dormedes Potes in an eight-round middleweight showdown.

Fans can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FOX, FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSports.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @MGMNatlHarbor, @TGBPromotions, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

(March 10, 2020) —Top Rank has signed veteran light heavyweight contender Maxim Vlasov to a long-term promotional agreement. Vlasov, a 33-year-old boxer-puncher from Samara, Russia, has won regional titles at super middleweight, light heavyweight and cruiserweight.

Vlasov will return this summer against countryman Umar Salamov as part of the four-man WBO light heavyweight tournament, which will determine a new world champion. Joe Smith Jr. and former light heavyweight world champion Eleider “Storm” Alvarez will face off in the other WBO semifinal. With Vlasov’s signing, all four men in the tournament have promotional ties to Top Rank.

“Maxim deserves the opportunity to compete at the highest level, and we are thrilled to add him to our deep light heavyweight stable,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “His fight against Salamov is one that I can’t wait to see.”

“I want to thank Mr. Bob Arum for believing in me and signing me to a long-term promotional agreement. I am very excited to be part of the four-way tournament for the vacant WBO light heavyweight world title,” Vlasov said. “Having fought professionally for 15 years in three different weight divisions against some of the world’s top fighters, I now believe that I am at the top of my game. I am ready to prove to the light heavyweight division that I have what it takes to become the WBO world champion.”

“It is very exciting for Maxim and our team to have signed a promotional agreement with Top Rank. The backing and support from a world leader in the boxing industry will give Maxim the exposure globally that he needs to become a star,” said Oleg Bogdanov, Vlasov’s manager. “He is a real dark horse that has experience against world-class fighters in three weight classes.”

Vlasov (45-3, 26 KOs) had a brief 35-bout amateur stint and turned pro in April 2005 at the age of 18. He won the first 19 bouts of his career before dropping a 10-round decision to perennial light heavyweight contender Isaac Chilemba, whom he knocked down twice in the eighth round. In 2015, following a decision loss Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez, he moved up to cruiserweight. He won his first 12 bouts at cruiserweight, including a 2016 knockout over 2008 Olympic gold medalist Rakhim Chakhkiev and a 10th-round stoppage over hard-punching veteran Olanrewaju Durodola in February 2018.

Following a close decision defeat to Krzysztof Glowacki in November 2018 for the interim WBO cruiserweight world title, Vlasov moved down to light heavyweight. He has won three straight since, including a decision over Chilemba. He last fought Nov. 30 in Russia, where he shut out the previously unbeaten Emmanuel Martey over 10 rounds.

NEW YORK – March 10, 2020 – Rising 140-pound knockout artist Brandun Lee has a growing reputation within the sport of boxing and can count three accomplished and decorated pros among those who believe he is destined for the very top. Former two-division champion Timothy Bradley, Jr., lightweight champion in recess Devin Haney, and top welterweight prospect Jaron Ennis have seen Lee up close and believe he will soon be a household name among boxing fans.

The undefeated super lightweight Lee (18-0, 16 KOs), who was the subject of the latest installment of SHOWTIME Sports’ DAY IN CAMP digital video franchise, will headline his first ShoBox: The New Generation when he takes on Camilo Prieto (15-2, 10 KOs) in a 10-round super lightweight bout on Friday, March 13 live on SHOWTIME (10 ET/PT) from the Grand Casino Hinckley in Hinckley, Minn.

“DAY IN CAMP: Brandun Lee,” a 15-minute special video feature, captures Lee’s family-first mentality, emphasis on the importance of education and hunger for success inside the ring. Viewers are taken through a typical day during Lee’s training camp, which includes sparring, college coursework, cooking, a grueling nighttime workout and a FaceTime call with friend and fellow ShoBox fighter Jaron Ennis. Available for viewing HERE: https://youtu.be/Ow04RVwkpx8

“Brandun is a beast,” said Ennis, who has fought on SHOWTIME in four of his last five fights. “He’s a phenomenal fighter and he’s going to put on a show Friday night. I think he’ll be able to show boxing fans all his skills. He’s a monster. Him being a calm and relaxed fighter sets him apart. He’s really smart as well and has great ring IQ, but you can’t forget about his power because he has the ability to end fights early.”

Bradley and Haney, who are among the list of the 81 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles, have both sparred with Lee and are amazed by the bright prospect’s talent.

Bradley, who appeared on ShoBox four times between 2006-08, including a split-decision over Junior Witter to win the WBC Super Lightweight Championship, recalls sparring with a 14-year-old Lee ahead of Bradley’s fight with Juan Manuel Marquez for the WBO Welterweight Title in 2013. Bradley’s trainer, Joel Diaz, wanted to replicate Marquez’s counterpunching ability and believed Lee’s hand speed and counterpunching were credible.

“Lee and I sparred four complete rounds and, boy, was I impressed with his ring IQ, speed, timing and movement,” said Bradley. “For a young man with no pro experience, he was able to hold his own. Brandun is from my area so I follow him from afar and I really admire his game. He’s undefeated and that’s not surprising at all. I believe Lee has the goods to become a world champion and at this point he is still gaining experience and momentum towards his dream.

“There are still questions that need to be answered by Lee. How will he respond if he is ever knocked down? How will he do against someone just like himself; someone undefeated, stern and just as hungry? It’s going to be fun to watch him as he continues his journey. He has the skill to rise to the top but we all know it takes more than just skills. He’s on the right course and I back him 110 percent.”

Haney, who headlined on the prospect development series on three different occasions, went on to win a world title at the age of 20 and believes Lee has the potential to move up the ranks quite quickly as well.

“If you haven’t heard of Brandun Lee, you will very soon,” said Haney, now 21 years old. “He has the talent and power to make some real noise in the welterweight division. I sparred him before and trust me, he’s a real dog. I’m looking forward to watching on March 13 and I expect my guy to put on a hell of a performance on ShoBox: The New Generation.”

Lee has also sparred with Oxnard, Calif.’s Mikey Garcia, who has fought on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING six times, and Mauricio Herrera, who lost a close decision to then-unified champion Danny Garcia on SHOWTIME in 2014.

Friday’s four-fight ShoBox telecast includes 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.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions in association with D&D Boxing and Rapacz Boxing, are priced at $75 Ringside, $50 Reserved, $25 General Admission, and $62.50 Table Seating (two-ticket minimum), and are on sale now at ticketmaster.com or the Grand Casino Hinckley Box Office.

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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. 

Trenton, NJ (March 10, 2020) – A plethora of undefeated fighters will put their perfect record on the line at CHAMPBOX 2 which is promoted by SilverBow on Friday night, April 3rd at The Cure Insurance Arena in Trenton, New Jersey.

Headlining the card will be undefeated cruiserweight Mike Hilton.

Hilton, who headlined CHAMPBOX 1 with a six-round unanimous decision over Baldimir Hernandez, will be back to thrill his hometown fans on April 3rd.

Hilton, a former National Golden Gloves champion. has a record of 10-0 with seven knockouts, and was a National Golden Gloves champion.

“I’m looking forward to putting on a show for my city,” said Hilton.

Also on the card in a six-round bouts will be undefeated light heavyweight Omar Salem (9-0, 4 KOs) of Brooklyn,

New York; As well as super bantamweight Kalid Tawiti (6-0, 3 KOs) of Brooklyn, New York by way of Yemen.

“Brooklyn drip with pure gold swag I’m the future April 3rd I will be in my bag,” said Tawiti.

Seeing action in four-round bouts will be:

Cruiserweight Jakub Sowirko (2-0, 1 KO) of Trenton. Sowirko who thrilled the fans with his win at CHAMPBOX1, has a great following with the Polish community in Trenton.

“I’m here to put on a show and that’s what I’ll do,” said Sowirko.

Super welterweight Elijah Morales (4-0, 1 KO) of Trenton by way of Puerto Rico.

“I want to thank SilverBow for exposing the beautiful capital city of Trenton. I am fighting in the arena where I went to see Disney on Ice as a child. I am literally up the street where it’s been a viewed as a negative area, and we want to change that. We will have a lot of support as I have been raised here. Trenton is in my DNA. We don’t see race or anything like that, we see community,” said Morales

Middleweight Glenwood Latimer (1-0) of Philadelphia;

Two-Time Golden Gloves champion super bantamweight Ry’shine Collins (3-0, 2 KOs).

“I’m more ready than ever to perform on Champbox2. I’ll give the fans what they deserve on April 3rd,” said Collins.

Cruiserweight Sean Bullock (1-0) of Trenton and pro debuting super featherweight Jonibek Khotamov of Brooklyn.

Tickets for this special evening of boxing are $25, $39, $59, $79 $99. Tickets or on sale now and can be purchased at www.cureinsurancearena.com or by calling 1-800-298-4200.

The card is a pro-am that will begin at 6 PM with the doors opening at 5 PM.

The event is being sponsored by Flash Tech IT and CyberSecuirty since 1992. www.flashtech.com

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Abass Baraou (9-0, 6 KOs) has linked up with renowned British coach Adam Booth as the German super welterweight star looks to realise his World title ambitions.

Booth, who has recently opened his new Boxing Booth Gym in Surrey, has forged a formidable reputation as one of the sport’s leading coaches having trained numerous World Champions including David Haye, George Groves and Ryan Burnett.

Baraou was last in action on January 25th where he won with a fourth-round stoppage victory over Abraham Juarez, and will have Booth in his corner for the first time when he headlines Team Sauerland’s next event in Hamburg on April 4th.

Under the tutelage of Booth, Baraou will hope to build on a successful 2019 that saw the 25-year-old win the WBC International Super Welterweight title, gain victories over two former World Champions, make his international debut in Dubai and seal a successful year with a stoppage victory at The O2 in London on the undercard of the World Boxing Super Series Super Lightweight Final.

Baraou is currently training alongside Booth’s stable of exciting contenders including Josh Kelly, Michael Conlon and Harlem Eubank.

“I feel really confident with Adam and I really enjoy the work. We work very well together and I’m enjoying being here,” said Baraou. “I’ve found a new challenge with Adam and I really love it. He’s showing me how to use my weapons.

“I’m learning and enjoying working alongside everyone in the gym,” Baraou continued. “It feels like everyone sticks together and helps each other and there’s a nice energy here. I’m really glad to be here because I’ve found a new way to see boxing and I really like this. I’m also excited for the future and what it’s going to bring.”

Booth has been equally impressed with the German contender’s attitude and application.

“He’s a joy to work with,” said Booth. “He was a European gold medallist and a World bronze so you know he’s got competitive grade from the amateurs. He’s been sparring with Josh Kelly and a couple of other guys as well and he’s really impressed.

“I’ve been impressed with his mental approach, he’s made up of the right stuff. He’s very clever and he’s very strong.” Continued Booth. “We are enjoying what we do, the coach can only get the best out of a fighter when he understands a fighter and we are in that stage at the moment where I’m finding things out already that could work at a very high level. I’m excited.”

Baraou’s promoter Nisse Sauerland believes Booth is the perfect fit for his fighter and will see him continue his journey to the upper echelons of the sport.

“Adam Booth is one of the best coaches in the world,” said Sauerland. “His style and philosophy fit perfectly with Abass, who will give everything he’s got to ensure he gets to the top. We are delighted to see these two become a team!”

Baraou returns to the ring on April 4th at the Work Your Champ Arena in Hamburg with chief support coming from Denis Radovan (13-0-1, 6 KOs). 18-year-old Sophie Alisch (5-0, 1 KOs) is also in action as the boxing prodigy looks to build on a fantastic debut year. James Kraft (17-0-1, 9 KOs) challenges challenge Dimitar Tilev (11-0, 7 KOs) for the IBF Junior World Super Middleweight title and further announcements will be made shortly.

All the action will be broadcast live on SPORT1 in Germany. 

LAS VEGAS, NV (March 10, 2020) – Heavyweight Jeremiah Milton, who recently signed a managerial agreement with Victory Sports & Entertainment, will now prep for his professional debut on April 17th in his hometown of Tulsa, Oklahoma, at the Osage Casino, on a card promoted by Top Rank.

“So much can be said, somehow this is how I always imagined it would happen as my dreams are coming true.” said Milton. “Tulsa Oklahoma watched me grow as I walked into a gym and never left. Last year I accomplished some of the greatest achievements anyone has ever done out of Oklahoma as I gained national recognition with only a heavy bag, and desire to wake up each day an get it. You watched me take my talents across the country and represent.”

“Although they love me in so many other places now, I get to bring my talents back to home. I’m thankful for everyone who helped me stay on this journey it’s truly not mine alone. Through the highs and lows never, stop believing in yourself. To my young fighters back home, trust your gut and always be honest with yourself and remember…Dreams become reality when you meet the odds and punch them straight in the mouth.”

Milton, a 25-year-old amateur standout, is looking to take his career to the next level. After winning a silver medal at the Olympic Trials and winning the Western Qualifiers in 2019, Milton is focused on making noise in the professional game.

“I have always wanted to be a professional boxer because I have a professional style,” emphasized Milton. “Training in Las Vegas, Nevada, sparring with Joe Joyce, and now fighting on a major card in my hometown, it doesn’t get much better than this. I’m in the best shape of my life and I’m training hard to make the most of this opportunity.”

Milton’s manager Mike Leanardì is ecstatic with this opportunity for his fighter.

“Milton has only been boxing for three years, but in those three years he has made dramatic progress,” said Mike Leanardì, CEO of Victory Sports & Entertainment. “Right now, Milton is in training camp with Joe Joyce, working hard and focused on making his pro debut something special. The fact that he’s fighting in his hometown really gets me excited. Milton has the work ethic that can be found in world champions and I can’t wait to see him shine in the pros.”

Las Vegas – UFC^® returns to Oklahoma City for the third time with a thrilling middleweight bout between No. 6 ranked contender Jack Hermansson and former middleweight champion Chris Weidman. In a pivotal strawweight bout, No. 6 ranked contender Claudia Gadelha squares off with undefeated No. 9 Marina Rodriguez.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT ON ESPN+^®: HERMANSSON vs. WEIDMAN will take place Saturday, May 2 at Chesapeake Energy Arena. The main card begins at 9 p.m. ET on ESPN+ in English and Spanish. The prelims kick off at 6 p.m. ET on ESPN in English and the ESPN App in Spanish. Doors open at 5 p.m. ET.

Known for his devastating ground-and-pound attack, Hermansson (20-5, fighting out of Oslo, Norway) emerged as a middleweight contender following a four-fight win streak that saw him earn spectacular victories over “Jacare” Souza, David Branch, Gerald Meerschaert and former title challenger Thales Leites. Hermansson now aims to add a former UFC champion to his resume and further stake his claim as title threat in the stacked middleweight division.

Weidman (14-5, fighting out of Baldwin, N.Y.) etched his name in the history books by dethroning long-reigning UFC champion Anderson Silva in 2013. A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, he has also netted impressive wins against Kelvin Gastelum and Demian Maia, as well as former UFC champions Vitor Belfort and Lyoto Machida. Weidman now returns to middleweight and aims to re-assert himself as one of the best fighters at 185 pounds.

A former women’s strawweight title challenger, Gadelha (17-4, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) has fought the who’s who in the 115-pound division. Throughout her UFC run, the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt has earned exciting wins over Carla Esparza, Karolina Kowalkiewicz and Jessica Aguilar. Gadelha now hopes to be the first fighter to beat Rodriguez and take another step towards title contention.

A contract winner on Dana White’s Contender Series, Rodriguez (12-0-2, fighting out of Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil) has impressed since joining the UFC roster. During this time, she has netted emphatic victories against Tecia Torres and Jessica Aguilar. Rodriguez is now poised to continue her ascent up the strawweight rankings as she sets her sight on one of the toughest contenders in the division.

Additional bouts on the card include:

• No. 13 ranked featherweight contender Ryan Hall (8-1, Falls Church, Va.) goes for another show-stealing finish when he meets former title challenger Ricardo Lamas (19-8, fighting out of Chicago, Ill.)
• Bryce Mitchell (12-1, fighting out of Searcy, Ark.) takes on Charles Rosa (12-3, fighting out of Boca Raton, Fla. by way of Peabody, Mass.) in a thrilling featherweight bout
• Former UFC heavyweight champion Andrei Arlovski (28-19 2NC, fighting out of Coconut Creek, Fla. by way of Minsk, Belarus) faces debuting Philipe Lins (14-3, fighting out of Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil)
• Dana White’s Contender Series contract winner Alonzo Menifield (10-0, fighting out of Dallas, Tex.) aims to remain undefeated when he rakes on Devin Clark (11-4, fighting out of Sioux Falls, S.D.)
• The Ultimate Fighter season three veteran Ed Herman (26-14 1NC, fighting out of Portland, Ore.) squares off with surging Da-un Jung (13-2, fighting out of Seoul, South Korea)
• Dana White’s Contender Series signee Sarah Alpar (9-4, fighting out of Edmond, Okla.) debuts against Vanessa Melo (10-7, fighting out of Taboao da Serra, Sao Paulo, Brazil)

Visit the UFC.com for information and content to support your UFC coverage. Please click here to apply for the event.

Tickets for UFC FIGHT NIGHT ON ESPN+^®: HERMANSSON vs. WEIDMAN go on sale Friday, March 13 at 10 a.m. CT. Tickets are available for purchase online at ticketmaster.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person.

UFC Fight Club^® members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets Wednesday, March 11 at 10 a.m. CT via the website www.ufcfightclub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thursday, March 12 starting at 10 a.m. CT. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

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About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 318 million fans and 80 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 170 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 Chesapeake Energy Arena

Chesapeake Energy Arena is Oklahoma City’s premier entertainment facility and home to NBA’s Oklahoma City Thunder. Located in downtown OKC, the facility can hold over 18,000 fans for basketball games and over 16,000 for concerts. Consistently listed on Pollstar’s Top Arenas Worldwide, the arena hosts numerous concerts, family shows, and sporting events creating memories for thousands of guests each year and consistently lands on Pollstar’s Top Arenas Worldwide list. Chesapeake Energy Arena is owned by the City of Oklahoma City and managed by ASM Global. For more information and a full list of events, visit www.chesapeakearena.com.

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 7.6 million subscribers in less than two years, 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.

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.

Philadelphia, PA (March 9, 2020) -This past Saturday night, junior welterweight Samuel Teah won a six-round unanimous decision over Dieumerci Nzau in front of a sold-out crowd at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

The successful show, which was attended by many members of the boxing community as well as well as WWE superstars, was the inaugural card staged by RDR Promotions.

Teah of Philadelphia dropped Nzau in the opening frame with a hard right hand to the head. Teah never was challenged in the bout that saw him win by scores of 60-53 twice and 59-54.

Teah now has a record of 17-3-1. Nzau of Silver Spring, Maryland is now 11-12.

Brandon Robinson got off the deck in round two to comeback and stop Josue Obando in the same round of their scheduled six-round super middleweight bout.

The time of the stoppage was 1:46 of the 2nd frame for the Upper Darby, PA native, who now has a record of 15-2 with 10 knockouts. Obando of Guadalajara, Mexico is 19-27-2.

Nahir Albright won a six-round majority decision over Andrew Rodgers in a junior welterweight bout.

Albright of Sicklerville, NJ won by scores of 60-54, 58-56 and 57-57 and is now 8-1. Rodgers of Elkhart, IN is 4-9-2.

Ryan Umberger kept his perfect knockout streak in-tact by stopping Estevan Payan in the opening frame of their four-round middleweight bout.

Umberger of Bensalem, PA is 4-0 with four stoppages. Payan of Glendale, AZ is 1-9-1.

Naheem Parker made a successful pro debut with a four-round unanimous decision over Anthony Carter in a super lightweight bout.

Parker of Camden, NJ won by scores of 40-36 twice and 39-37. Carter of Philadelphia is 0-2.

Victor Medina and Michael Stoute fought to a four-round split draw in a bantamweight fight.

Scores were 39-37 for each and 38-38.

Medina of Hartford, CT is 1-0-1. Stoute of Long Island is 3-2-1.

Nafear Charles stopped Joseph Santana in 74 seconds of their four-round lightweight bout.

Charles of Philadelphia is 3-0 with all wins coming early. Santana of Providence, RI is 0-3.

Touted amateur Rashiem Jefferson Jr. won a four-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Nathan Benichou in a featherweight contest.

Jefferson of Philadelphia was making his pro debut, won by shutout scores of 40-36 on all cards. Benichou of France is 2-1.

LaQuan Evans stopped debuting Anthony Young in the final round of their scheduled four-round junior middleweight fight.

Evans of Philadelphia is now 4-1 with two knockouts. Carter, also of Philadelphia is 0-1.

Photos by Darryl Cobb Jr. / RDR Promotions.

Las Vegas (March 9, 2020) – Four-division world champion Mikey Garcia has confirmed that he will appear at the sixth annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday, May 2, 2020, at the Cox Pavilion in Las Vegas from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Garcia will hold a Meet & Greet with his fans at his booth during the fan event held over the Cinco De Mayo weekend.

The Boxing Expo will also take place before the return of Boxing’s Superstar Canelo Alvarez, who will be participating in a mega fight, later that evening at the T-Mobile arena.

The Box Fan Expo is an annual fan event that coincides with some of the sports’ legendary, classic fights in Las Vegas, including Mayweather vs. Maidana II, Mayweather vs. Berto, Canelo vs. Chavez Jr., Canelo vs. GGG II, and Canelo vs. Jacobs. Centered in boxing’s longtime home – Las Vegas – this year’s Expo is a must-do for fight fans coming in for this legendary weekend, with dozens of professional fighters, promoters, and companies involved in the boxing industry. The Expo is the largest and only Boxing Fan Expo held in the United States. http://boxfanexpo.com- @BoxFanExpo

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available online at:
https://bitly.com/BoxingExpo2020

Garcia will make his 4th appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and also have merchandise as well as products for sale for fans to enjoy. Boxing Fans will have an opportunity to also take pictures with this Boxing Superstar and one of the best Boxer in the world at the Pound For Pound (P4P) CBD booth. More info: https://www.pforpcbd.com/

Garcia returned to the ring last week on February 29, 2020 to face former 3-time world champion Jessie Vargas. This exciting welterweight showdown took place at the Ford Center at the Star in Frisco, Texas and was streamed live on DAZN in the US. Close to 12,000 fans were treated to an incredible night of boxing, which saw Garcia compete in his second welterweight division bout, with a unanimous decision win over Vargas in a very tough, competitive and entertaining fight.

Garcia joins Roy Jones Jr., Erik Morales, Michael Spinks and Jessie Vargas as an early commitment to this year’s Box Fan Expo, with more Boxing stars to be announced.

About Mikey Garcia
Mikey Garcia, is an American professional boxer from Mexican descent and a 4 Division world champion as well as a unified lightweight world champion, having held the WBC title since 2017, and the IBF title since July 2018. Previously he held the WBO and Ring magazine featherweight titles in 2013, the WBO junior lightweight title from 2013 to 2014, and the IBF and lineal light welterweight titles from March to April 2018. On July 28, 2018, Garcia defended his WBC lightweight title and took away the IBF belt from Robert Easter Jr with a wide unanimous decision win, which included a third-round knockdown. More than 12,500 fans were on hand at the Staples Center in Los Angeles to witness this incredible achievement.

On March 16th of this year, Garcia went up 2 weight classes to challenge the IBF welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr., who many consider to be one of the Top Pound for Pound best boxer in the world. In front of a 48,000 thousand electrifying crowd at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, Garcia fought a very hard and incredibly brave fight that went the distance, but Spence came out on top to retain his world Title.

Garcia is considered and ranked in many organizations amongst some of the best fighters in the world. He is trained by his father Eduardo and his brother, former world champion and one of the top boxing trainers in the world Robert Garcia. Today, the boxing world awaits impatiently to see what Garcia will decide to do in his next fight and which division he will be competing at, with so many great fights to happen in the near future.

About Pound For Pound CBD
P4P Therapeutics and Mikey Garcia have teamed up to make high-quality CBD products available in convenient and affordable bundles shipped directly to you each month. Our products are produced from 100% organic industrial hemp and are tested for purity & potency. We work with the top CBD cultivators and have specially formulated this line to meet Mikey Garcia’s needs as a professional athlete, as well as for maximum benefit to recreational athletes and all consumers. From gummies and gel capsules, to lemongrass soothe balms and potent CBD oil tinctures, we have you covered! Made in the USA and containing zero THC, our products are formulated for human consumption and are safe for all animals with endocannabinoid systems. Browse the new P4P Therapeutics line, choose a monthly subscription, and start enjoying the benefits of high-quality CBD products with us!

About Box Fan Expo
Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet the stars of boxing that represent the past, present and future of the sport. With hosted autograph signings, meet-and-greets with current and former boxing world champions, limited edition merchandise for sale, giveaways and more, this is the ultimate event for fans of the sport.

Past boxing stars that have participated include: Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Sugar Ray Leonard, Julio Cesar Chavez, Juan Manuel Marquez, Tommy Hearns, Roy Jones Jr, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, Andre Ward, Mikey Garcia, Marcos Maidana, Devin Haney, David Benavidez, Errol Spence Jr, Sergio Martinez, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Tim Bradley, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Shawn Porter, Fernando Vargas, Abner Mares, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Vinny Paz, Mia St.John, Leo Santa Cruz, Badou Jack, Terry Norris, Riddick Bowe, Earnie Shavers, Michael & Leon Spinks, Danny Jacobs, Claressa Shields, Teofimo Lopez, Brandon Rios, Jorge Linares, and many more.

Exhibitors include boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry as a whole.

Throughout the next few months leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo.

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –
http://boxfanexpo.eventbrite.com/

PHOENIX – March 9, 2020 – Undefeated WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Davíd “El Bandera Roja” Benavidez will defend his title on Saturday, April 18 in his hometown of Phoenix, Ariz. against former world title challenger Roamer Alexis Angulo, live on SHOWTIME from Arizona Federal Theatre headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features rising lightweight prospect Michel Rivera taking on Mexico’s Marcos Villasana Jr. in a WBC Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. Interim WBA Super Lightweight titlist Alberto Puello faces two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy in the televised opener.

One of the sport’s brightest young stars, Benavidez kicks off his second reign as WBC Super Middleweight Champion by returning to fight in his native Phoenix for the first time since 2015, when he knocked out Ricardo Campillo in just his 10th pro fight.

“On Saturday, April 18, Phoenix’s own super middleweight world champion Davíd Benavidez will return home looking to thrill his hometown fans at Arizona Federal Theatre and further cement his positioning in the 168-pound division,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Benavidez can expect a strong challenge from the exciting Roamer Alexis Angulo, which should create an action-packed main event live on SHOWTIME. Two more fights with title implications add to the intrigue, with fast-rising Michel Rivera barreling toward a championship and two-division champion Rances Barthelemy hoping to pry the title away from Alberto Puello.”

“From the start of his career, long before he became champion, people have been asking me about Davíd fighting at home,” said Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing. “Now is the perfect time and I’m very happy to help bring this show to Davíd’s hometown. I have no doubt it will not only be a great event; it will also be packed with thousands of fans of ‘El Bandera Roja’ Benavidez.”

“SHOWTIME Sports continues its tradition of featuring the brightest young stars in boxing,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports & Events Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “At just 23 years old, David Benavidez is one of boxing’s most exciting young champions, and he’s facing a dangerous opponent in Roamer Alexis Angulo, who is hungry for another upset victory. In the co-main event, we have yet another boxing prodigy in undefeated 21-year-old rising star Michel Rivera, who is facing his most challenging opponent to date in Marcos Villasana. To round out the card, we will yet another undefeated young rising star in 25-year-old Alberto Puello, who takes on battle-tested veteran Rances Barthelemy.”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com and at Arizona Federal Theatre box office.

The 23-year-old Benavidez (22-0, 19 KOs) defends his belt after defeating two-time super middleweight champion Anthony Dirrell in September, stopping him in nine rounds. Benavidez is trained by his father José Sr., alongside his brother and former title challenger, José Jr. In 2017, he became the youngest super middleweight champion in boxing history by defeating Ronald Gavril on SHOWTIME at just 20 years old. Benavidez went from a 15-year-old prodigy sparring with Gennady Golovkin and Peter Quillin, to world title contender with a 10-fight knockout streak from 2015 through 2017, including a highlight-reel knockout of Rogelio Medina with a seven-punch combination that earned him his first championship.

“I’m very excited to be fighting Angulo on SHOWTIME and in front of my hometown crowd,” said Benavidez. “I haven’t fought in Phoenix in five years. It’s exciting to be back. I expect Angulo to come in ready. I know he just pulled an upset in his last fight and he’s not taking any shortcuts, but neither am I. Angulo has never been stopped, so I want to be the first person to stop him. I feel like I’m more motivated with a hungry fighter like him in front of me, and you will see it in my performance.”

Born in El Bordo, Colombia and now fighting out of Miami, Fla., Angulo (26-1, 22 KOs) enters his second world title opportunity on a three-fight winning streak, including two triumphs over previously unbeaten fighters. Angulo stopped Reinaldo Gonzalez in 2018 in his first fight since losing a decision to then-super middleweight champion Gilberto Ramirez earlier that year. He scored a decision victory this January over Anthony Sims Jr. to put himself in position to again challenge the best in the division.

“I’m very motivated by this great opportunity to fight for the world title again,” said Angulo. “Benavidez is a talented world champion who is clearly one of the best super middleweights in the world. This is going to be a great fight for the fans because of the style I bring to the ring. My Mexican style of fighting will be too much for Benavidez and I will have my hand raised on April 18.”

Born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and now living in Miami, the 21-year-old Rivera (18-0, 12 KOs) made his U.S. debut on ShoBox in June of 2019 by scoring an impressive unanimous decision victory against then-unbeaten Rene Tellez Giron, who would go on to upset Karlos Balderas in his next fight. The explosive rising star then followed up by stopping Jose Luis Gallegos in September and scoring a vicious 10th-round TKO against Fidel Maldonado Jr. in February of 2020.

Villasana (25-6, 14 KOs) is the son of former featherweight champion Marcos Villasana, and fights out of Acapulco, Mexico. The 28-year-old will make his U.S. debut on April 18 riding a 10-fight winning streak that includes five knockouts. He most recently picked up two victories in 2019, defeating then-unbeaten Roman Villa in April before knocking out Javier Franco in August.

Representing his home of San Juan de la Maguana, Dominican Republic, Puello (17-0, 9 KOs) will make his U.S. debut on April 18 when he faces Barthelemy. The 25-year-old has fought professionally since 2015, defeating a slew of regional contenders and prospects. His most recent fight saw him defeat 2012 Olympian and then-unbeaten Jonathan Alonso by 12-round decision to capture his interim 140-pound title.

A decorated Cuban amateur who hails from a boxing family, Barthelemy (27-1-1, 14 KOs) is moving back to super lightweight after fighting former champion Robert Easter Jr. to a draw in their April 2019 lightweight title fight. The 33-year-old now trains in Las Vegas and has won titles in two weight classes, defeating Argenis Mendez for a 130-pound crown in 2014 and Denis Shafikov for a 135-pound belt in 2015. Barthelemy will look to work his way toward a second world title shot at 140 pounds, which could make him the first three-division champion from Cuba.

Veteran broadcaster Brian Custer will serve as telecast host with versatile combat sportscaster Mauro Ranallo calling the action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and former two-division world champion Paulie Malignaggi. Rounding out the telecast team are Emmy® award-winning reporter Jim Gray, unofficial ringside scorer Steve Farhood and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. David Dinkins Jr. serves as Executive Producer with Ray Smaltz producing and Bob Dunphy directing.

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

Providence, RI (Monday, March 9) – Undefeated featherweight prospect Ricky Delossantos has been forced to withdraw from his scheduled bout Thursday at Twin River Casino Hotel due to a strained intercostal muscle, CES Boxing announced Monday.

Delossantos (9-0, 1 KO), a Pawtucket, RI, native, sustained the injury during training camp in preparation for his scheduled eight-round bout against fellow unbeaten prospect Edward Vazquez (7-0, 1 KO) of Fort Worth, TX. An intercostal muscle strain is an injury affecting the muscles between two or more ribs.

Thursday’s event is headlined by the return of Providence native Toka Kahn Clary (27-2, 18 KOs) in an eight-round super featherweight main event bout against Mexican challenger Dennis Contreras (21-10-1, 19 KOs). Massachusetts rivals Ray Oliveira Jr. (8-3, 1 KO) of New Bedford and Springfield’s Derrick Whitley Jr. (6-1-1) face one another in a special six-round welterweight attraction and undefeated Providence super welterweight Lamont Powell (5-0, 1 KO) steps up to battle the dangerous Carlos Huerta(6-5-2, 3 KOs) of Guadalajara, Mexico, in a six-round bout. CES Boxing President and CEO Jimmy Burchfield Sr. said plans are in place to reschedule the Delossantos-Vazquez bout for a later date.

“Given the severity of the injury, I did not feel comfortable with Ricky stepping into the ring in the toughest fight of his career and risking the possibility of further aggravating the injury and missing even more time down the road,” Burchfield said.

“We sought out multiple opinions, and I accompanied Ricky this morning to see an orthopedic surgeon. After seeking out a third opinion and examining all the facts, it became increasingly obvious he would be unable to fight. As important as this fight was to both sides, nothing is more important than the long-term health of the fighters. This was a difficult decision, but a necessary one.

“We encourage anyone who’s a fight fan to come out and join us Thursday night. This event is loaded from top to bottom, starting with Toka Kahn Clary’s long-awaited homecoming, plus the return of several of New England’s top prospects, including Lamont Powell and Elijah Peixoto, and Ricky will be in attendance to greet his fans. Our No. 1 goal is to put on a world-class event Thursday and I’m confident we’re well on our way to another sold-out show.”

“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,” Delossantos said.

“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. I am thankful for everyone who has supported me along the way. Even though I am not fighting, I will be in attendance Thursday rooting on my teammates, many of whom I came up with in the amateurs, and I encourage everyone to join me for what is going to be a great night of boxing. I’ll be signing autographs, passing out shirts and taking pictures with my fans.”

Tickets for Thursday start at $47 and are 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 starting approximately at 6:45. The official weigh-in is scheduled for Wednesday, March 11 at 4 p.m. at the Twin River Casino Hotel Event Center, the site of Thursday’s event.

Another potential show-stopper Thursday is the six-round welterweight battle between Marqus Bates (7-3, 5 KOs) of Taunton, MA and crafty Culpeper, VA, vet Roque Zapata (6-3-5). Unbeaten Providence super welterweight Anthony Concepcion (4-0-1, 4 KOs) puts his unbeaten record on the line in a four-round bout against 11-fight vet Martez Jackson (4-4-3, 2 KOs) of Valdosta, GA.

Thursday’s card also features the professional debut of Pawtucket super middleweight Hassler Chacon in a four-round bout against Brazilian Raush Manfio of Florida in addition to the return of East Providence, RI, native and decorated amateur Elijah Peixoto (2-0, 1 KO) in his third professional bout as he faces Philadelphia native Zaymar Brothers (0-1-1) in a four-round super lightweight bout. The 24-year-old Peixoto won four Southern New England Golden Gloves titles as an amateur and amassed an impressive 119-27 record that also included a trip to the 2018 U.S. Olympic Trials qualifiers.

Visit CESBoxing.com, Twitter.com/CESBoxing or Facebook.com/CESBoxing for more information, and follow CES Boxing on Instagram at @CESBOXING.

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.

FRESNO, Calif. (March. 9, 2020) — It took a little longer than expected, but WBC/WBO super lightweight world champion Jose Ramirez, the pride of California’s Central Valley, is set to return. Ramirez will defend his titles against mandatory challenger and former world champion Viktor “The Iceman” Postol Saturday, May 9 at Save Mart Center in Fresno, a short drive from Ramirez’s hometown of Avenal. Ramirez and Postol were set to fight Feb. 1 in China, but the bout was postponed due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Ramirez-Postol and a 10-round super lightweight battle between former two-weight world champion Jose “Sniper” Pedraza and surging 2008 U.S. Olympian Javier “El Intocable” Molina will be televised LIVE on ESPN and ESPN Deportes beginning at 10 p.m. ET, with the undercard bouts scheduled to stream in English and Spanish on ESPN+ starting at 7 p.m. ET.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with TGB Promotions, tickets priced at $206, $131, $96, $66 and $31 go on sale Tuesday, March 10 at 10 a.m. PT and can be purchased at the Save Mart Center box office, Ticketmaster.com, or by calling 800-745-3000.

“We are pleased that Ramirez and Postol will finally fight May 9 from the great city of Fresno,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Viktor is a worthy mandatory challenger who earned his title shot, and Jose will be fully prepared to make a statement. And for Jose, this could be his last fight in Fresno for a long time, so I expect the Central Valley faithful to fill up the Save Mart Center for a special evening.”

Ramirez (25-0, 17 KOs) is one of two unified junior welterweight champions. He won the WBC world title in March 2018, prevailing via 12-round shootout against Amir Imam in New York City. He defended that belt twice before stepping up to fight Maurice Hooker in a highly anticipated title unification bout. In one of the best fights of 2019, Ramirez knocked out Hooker in six rounds. A 2012 U.S. Olympian, Ramirez has headlined at Save Mart Center five times previously and has drawn a total of 65,794 fans through the arena’s turnstiles. Last time he fought at Save Mart Center — February 2019 against Jose Zepeda — he drew a career-high turnout of 14,034.

“It is always a blessing to fight at Save Mart Center in front of my loyal fans,” Ramirez said. “I prepared for Postol once, and I will be in top form May 9. My trainer, Robert Garcia, will have me ready for whatever he brings to the table. He is a former world champion who I cannot underestimate.” 

Postol (31-2, 12 KOs) has spent the majority of his 12-year career as a super lightweight and nearly a decade at, or near, the top of the division. He stunned the boxing world in October 2015 when he dethroned Lucas Matthysse via 10th-round KO to win the WBC world title. In his next fight, he was blunted over 12 rounds by Terence Crawford in a unification bout. He is 3-1 since the Crawford defeat, dropping a 2018 decision to Josh Taylor, who is now the division’s other unified champion. He earned the WBC’s mandatory shot at Ramirez in April with a unanimous decision over Mohamed Mimoune.

“I am glad the new fight date is set. I’m already in gym, and camp is going really well,” Postol said. “I was ready to fight on Feb. 1 and now I’m focused on May 9. The fight is taking place in his hometown, but that does not bother me because I have the experience to fight on away soil. I am looking forward to become a champion again.”

Pedraza (26-3, 13 KOs), from Cidra, Puerto Rico, held the IBF junior lightweight world title from 2015-2017 and then upset Ray Beltran in August 2018 to capture the WBO lightweight world title. He came up short in a valiant effort against Vasiliy Lomachenko in a toe-to-toe unification bout in December 2018 before knocking out Antonio Lozada Jr. in nine rounds the following May. Pedraza then moved up to 140 pounds last September and was outboxed by southpaw spoiler Jose Zepeda. He’s taking another shot as a super lightweight, this time against Molina (22-2, 9 KOs), a native of Norwalk, Calif. Molina, winner of five in a row, is coming off a pair of signature victories.

Last November, he knocked out Japanese veteran Hiroki Okada in just 65 seconds in an ESPN-televised co-feature. He followed that up with gritty eight-round decision over Imam on the Tyson Fury-Deontay Wilder II undercard.

“This May 9 fight against Javier Molina will be crucial for my career. This is a crossroads fight, and I will do everything in my power to return to the winning route against a world-class opponent,” Pedraza said. “I know Molina very well. I saw him fight while we were at the 2008 Olympics in China. He is coming off a couple of big wins and is looking for a world title shot at 140. I’m also looking for a world title shot at super lightweight, and that makes this fight a significant and interesting one. I’m working extremely hard because I know that to get a world title opportunity, I can’t have another loss on my record. I will get a big win against Javier Molina on May 9, and after that, the ‘Sniper’ will aim for a world title at 140.”

“I’m happy to get right back in the ring with another tough opponent. With a win over Pedraza, I feel like it should definitely set me up for a title shot next,” Molina said. “I’m excited to be on ESPN once again and continue to get that exposure. I’m just ready to go. 2020 will be my year.”

For more information, visit www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook: facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing.

Filip Hrgovi? will take on Jerry Forrest and Daniyar Yeleussinov will meet Julius Indongo in big step-up bouts for the talented pair on Friday April 17 at the MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland, live on DAZN.
TICKETS START AT JUST $43 (PLUS FEES)
Hrgovi? (10-0 8 KOs) made his debut under the Sauerland-Matchroom Boxing USA co-promotional banner in the same venue in May, hammering Gregory Corbin in the first round in his first defense of his WBC International title, and has added two more big KO wins since then, stopping Mario Heredia in Mexico in August in three rounds and then needing under nine minutes once again to blast away former World title challenger Eric Molina in Saudi Arabia in December.

Hrgovi? expects tough resistance from Forrest (26-3 20 KOs) in his first fight in 2020, with the Virginia man having ran unbeaten Jermaine Franklin close in July and returning to action in September to record his 20^thKO win from 23 fights. 

“I am looking forward to getting back in the ring,” said Hrgovi?. “I have good memories from fighting at the MGM National Harbor. This is where I made my American debut when I knocked out Gregory Corbin in the first round, and I’ve been training hard to give the fans another exciting performance on April 17.

“Jerry Forrest is a good boxer. He is a southpaw with a good record, and I’m expecting a tough fight, but I’m confident I will beat him.

“2019 was a great year for me. I fought in America, Mexico and Saudi Arabia. I had three fights against three strong opponents and got three knockouts wins. This year will be even better. My goal has always been to become World Champion, and I’m now closing in on that goal. I’m coming for belts!”

Promoter Nisse Sauerland said: “Filip is in fantastic shape and ready to start his 2020 campaign in style. Last time out at the MGM National Harbor he introduced himself to the American fight fans with an explosive first-round knockout, and they can expect a similar display this time round. Whenever Filip steps into the ring you’re guaranteed excitement. He is the future of the Heavyweight division and it’s only a matter of time before he’s fighting for World honors.”

Yeleussinov (9-0 5 KOs) looked explosive in his last two outings of 2019, hammering Reshard Hicks inside the opening round of their September clash in New York before stopping Alan Sanchez in the fifth round of their clash in Phoenix in September. 

The Kazakhstan 2016 Olympic gold medal man now faces a stiff test of his talents in his first action of 2020 against Indongo (23-2 12 KOs). The rangy Namibian rose to prominence in December 2016 when his stunning first round one-punch KO win saw him rip the WBO World Super-Lightweight title from Russia’s Eduard Troyanovsky in Moscow and then unified the division against Scotland’s three-weight World champion Ricky Burns in Glasgow in April 2017.

The 37 year old faced Terence Crawford for the undisputed Super-Lightweight title in August 2017 and then met former World Super-Lightweight champion and Maryland headliner Regis Prograis in March 2018. Indongo fell to both champions but bounced back with a 12^th career KO win in Alabama in August, and Yeleussinov has vowed to shine against the former World ruler.

“This is the most important fight of my career,” said Yeleussinov. “I had a great end to the year, and I feel I am building real momentum in the pro game now, but this is a big leap in quality of opponent. Julius is a former unified World champion and has huge experience at the very top level, so I will need to put on a career-best performance to keep my run going.”

One of Matchroom Boxing USA’s bright young talents joins Hrgovic and Yeleussinov in the shape of Raymond Ford (5-0 2 KOs), who will be eager to build on an explosive performance in December in destroying Francisco Mura in the first round in Phoenix.

“This is a big night in the careers of Filip Hrgovic and Daniyar Yeleussinov,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “Filip is a big problem for the Heavyweight division. The Croat is gaining valuable experience with every camp and fight, and all eyes will be on the 27 year old in Maryland as he looks to make another statement in boxing’s glamour division.

“Daniyar is really growing in the paid ranks and has been impressive in his recent outings, but Julius Indongo is a big step-up for the ‘Kazakh Thunder’. The former unified World champion will look to carry his power up to 147lbs so Daniyar will be under pressure to both impress again and stave off the attack of the dangerous Indongo.

“Our young stable of fighters is the best in the States, and Raymond continues his pro education on what promises to be another exciting night of action on DAZN.”

Tickets are currently on general sale now starting at just $43 (plus fees) via Ticketmaster. 

LOS ANGELES, CALIF. (March 9, 2020): Golden Boy and Eye of the Tiger Management are proud to introduce another exciting talent to American audiences as NABF Heavyweight Champion Arslanbek “Lion” Makhmudov (10-0, 10 KOs) has joined their co-promotional stable. Makhamudov joins the likes of David Lemieux, Yves Ulysses, Erik Bazinyan and Steven Butler in taking part in this historic co-promotional partnership.

Standing at six feet five and a half inches tall, Makhmudov is a Russian monster who weighs as much as 260 pounds when stepping into the ring. Before turning professional in 2017, he was an international amateur standout, where he competed in various tournaments, including the World Series of Boxing. As a professional, the 30-year-old contender has ended all of his fights by knockout, including a first-round win against world champion Samuel “The Nigerian Nightmare” Peter to win the NABF Heavyweight Title. Makhmudov, who now calls Montreal, Quebec, Canada his home, aspires to conquer the talent-laden heavyweight division as soon as possible.

“I’m confident that with my team, Eye of the Tiger Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions, I will reach my goal of becoming heavyweight champion of the world,” said Arslanbek Makhmudov.

“I’m thrilled to bring the top heavyweight prospect in the world to the U.S. with Golden Boy Promotions,” said Camille Estephan, President of Eye of the Tiger Management. “We plan to send a message to the heavyweight division with his performances. I’m partnering up with Oscar, Eric, Robert, Bernard and their team, and I believe we will have a heavyweight champion of the world together.”

“In recent years, we have had somewhat of a renaissance in the heavyweight division,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. “The big fights, heated rivalries and constant media exposure that the heavyweights are getting these days is very good for the health of the sport. By signing fighters such as Arslan Makhmudov, we are doing our part in continuing this momentum into the future. Makhmudov is a knockout artist who is joining our ranks after compiling an impressive record of 10 wins with 10 knockouts with our friends at Eye of the Tiger Management. We look forward to working with Camille Estephan and the entire team as we develop Makhmudov into a world champion.”

About Golden Boy
Los Angeles-based Golden Boy was established in 2002 by Oscar De La Hoya, the first Hispanic to own a national boxing promotional company. Golden Boy is a media and entertainment brand committed to making fighting entertainment more accessible and affordable. The company’s in-house production team develops creative original programming for RingTV.com and international channels across the globe. The company holds the exclusive rights to top boxers and has promoted some of the biggest and highest grossing events in the history of the sport. Now, Golden Boy is one of the most successful boxing entertainment companies in the world and shapes the future of boxing for fighters and fans alike through its 2019 partnership with streaming platform, DAZN.

The World Championship boxing event scheduled for March 27 in Verona, Italy, at the AGSM Forum, has been postponed due to the recent ban by the Italian government of all sports events until April 3.
 
The show promoted by Opi Since 82, Matchroom Boxing Italy and DAZN will be rescheduled as soon as health regulations allow. The main event will remain the vacant Interim WBA World Lightweight Title clash between Francesco Patera and Devis Boschiero. Opi Since 82 and Matchroom Boxing Italy are also working to reschedule the show which should have taken place in Milan on February 28. Given the unprecedented nature of this now global issue, we are unable to offer more clarity on new dates.

os Angeles, CA, (March 9, 2020) Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions and Roy Jones Jr. Promotions present the tenth evening of the acclaimed ‘Hollywood Fight Nights’^® series emanating from the legendary AVALON in Hollywood, CA on Sunday, March 29, 2020. The event will be live streamed exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS^®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, at 10:00 p.m. ET / 7:00 p.m. PT, and is headlined by Fast Rising Welterweight Star, Brian Ceballo, (11-0-0, 6 KOs) of New York City facing Heavy-Handed Texan Brian ‘Sweet’ Jones, (15-11, 9 KOs), of Clarksville, Texas.

“This is our tenth ‘Hollywood Fight Nights’ event at the AVALON and we couldn’t be more excited to work with Boxing Legend Roy Jones Jr. and his Team along with UFC FIGHT PASS to broadcast this action-packed event on their outstanding digital platform,” said Loeffler.

“Brian Ceballo is one of boxing’s top young stars fighting Brian Jones, a tough and durable opponent. In addition, the undercard is packed with many of Southern California’s top young prospects. We are expecting another sold-out event at the AVALON and encourage fans to purchase tickets quickly.”

The 25-year-old Ceballo had a busy schedule in 2019 with five victorious performances including three by knockout. The year was highlighted by a victory over previously undefeated Bakhtiyar Eyubov on June 8, 2019 at Madison Square Garden on the undercard of the Gennadiy Golovkin vs. Steve Rolls main event. Ceballo was also included in the ESPN 2019 Boxing’s Prospect of the Year list.

The upset minded Jones knocked out previously undefeated prospect Julian Sosa in the fifth round on August 3, 2019 in Brooklyn, NY. He looks to get back in the win column following a hard-fought decision loss to Anthony Laureano on September 14, 2019 in Catskill, NY.

Co-featured at ‘Hollywood Fight Nights’ in an outstanding featherweight clash, undefeated Adrian Montoya, (12-0, 10 KOs), of Sonora, Mexico returns to the AVALON in a six-rounder against Anthony Reyes, (12-1-1, 7 KOs), of San Diego, CA. The all-action 22-year-old Montoya, made his Southern California debut with an outstanding unanimous decision over previously unbeaten Humberto Rubalcava on October 27, 2019. Kicking off his 2020 campaign, Montoya knocked out Juan Gomez Torres in the second round on February 15 in Tijuana, Mexico. The 25-year-old Reyes returns to battle after a fourth- round knockout over Miguel Lopez on November 16, 2019 in Tijuana, Mexico.

In a six-round super flyweight bout, George ‘El Phantasma’ Navarro, (7-0-1, 3 KOs), of Los Angeles, CA faced Fernando Diaz, (5-1-1, 1 KO), of Bloomington, CA. The popular 21-year-old Navarro will be making his fifth straight appearance at ‘Hollywood Fight Nights’ in front of his army of fans. On October 27, 2019 he pitched a four-round unanimous decision over Nestor Ramos. The 19-year-old Diaz will be looking to bounce back into the win column after fighting to a six-round draw against Christian Negrete on June 29, 2019.

‘Hollywood Fight Nights’ fan favorite, super-featherweight Adrian ‘Bam Bam’ Corona, (7-0-1, 1 KO), of Los Angeles, CA battles Sergio Vega, (2-0-1, 2 KOs), of Woodland Hills, CA in a scheduled six rounder. The 20-year-old Corona, fighting for the seventh time at the AVALON capped off a four-win 2019 campaign with an exciting six-round unanimous decision over Emmanuel Castro on October 27, 2019. The undefeated southpaw Vega hits the ring following a four-round draw against Diego Elizondo on June 8, 2019 in Reno, Nevada.

Flyweights will see action as Christian Robles, (4-0, 1 KO), of Los Angeles, CA faces Dilan ‘El Rey’ Miranda, (5-2, 4 KOs), of San Diego, CA in a scheduled four rounder. Fighting for the fourth time at ‘Hollywood Fight Nights’, the 23-year-old Robles returns after a four-round unanimous decision victory over Cesar Sustaita on October 27, 2019. The 24-year-old Miranda looks to stay in the win column, knocking out Ming Freeman on August 24, 2019 in the third round in Alpine, CA.

Popular light heavyweight Marco Deckmann, (3-1, 3 KOs), of North Hollywood, trained by Hall of Famer Freddie Roach, will look to bounce back from a valiant loss to Jamel Reynolds on October 27, 2019 at the AVALON. The native of Germany will face an opponent to be named for his scheduled four-rounder.

Super welterweight newcomer Arman Darchinyan, (1-0, 1 KO), of Los Angeles, CA, the nephew of former world champion Vic Darchinyan, will battle in a six-rounder against an opponent to be named. The 25-year-old former amateur standout in his home country of Armenia, was successful in his professional debut stopping Kendall Mayes-Taylor in the second round at the AVALON on October 27, 2019.

Opening the show in the super-flyweight division, John ‘Scappy’ Ramirez, of Los Angeles, CA will make his professional debut in a four-round bout against an opponent to be announced.

Tickets for The VIP Boxing Experience priced at $150 (Limited VIP Ring Mat), $125 (First Row), $100 (Second Row), $85 (Reserved Floor) $80 (General Admission/Standing Room Floor), and $60 (General Admission/Balcony) are now on sale at www.360Promotions.us and through the interactive seating chart by clicking HERE. VIP Booths ($2000/10 Seats) are also available by calling 805-910-6111. Doors will open at 4:00 p.m. PT for the exciting eight-bout card.

*Card subject to change

To sign up for UFC FIGHT PASS, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com

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The historic AVALON is located at 1735 Vine Street in Hollywood, CA adjacent to the iconic intersection of Hollywood Blvd. and Vine St. For more details on the AVALON, please visit their website, www.AvalonHollywood.com

Providence, RI (Monday, March 9) – The ultimate spectator sport, boxing provides fans with an adrenaline rush few sports have the ability to replicate.

No matter the venue, the combatants, or the circumstances, boxing rarely fails to deliver, but there’s something a little extra special about two undefeated fighters putting their records – and reputations – on the line.

On Thursday night at Twin River Casino Hotel, undefeated prospects Ricky Delossantos (9-0, 1 KO) of Pawtucket, RI, and 24-year-old Fort Worth, TX, native Edward Vazquez (7-0, 1 KO) risk their perfect records in a highly-anticipated featherweight showdown under promotional giant CES Boxing.

The fight is scheduled for eight rounds and marks the second year in a row CES Boxing has opened its annual Twin River Casino Fight Series with a battle of unbeatens. In 2019, it was Jamaine Ortiz and Ricardo Quiroz battling for the WBC Youth World Lightweight title. Now it’s Delossantos and Vazquez, two fighters with different backgrounds and different paths to the squared circle, except for that one common denominator – their unblemished records and the expectations that come with them.

The fight is just days away and Vazquez is brimming with confidence as he prepares for his first trip up north and what may be the biggest challenge of his young career.

“He’s going to have to kill me if he wants to beat me,” Vazquez said. “I hope you’re working your ass off, because I am. You have no idea what you’ve got coming to you.”

Tickets start at $47 and are 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 6:45. The official weigh-in is scheduled for Wednesday, March 11 at 4 p.m. at the Twin River Casino Hotel Event Center, the site of Thursday’s event.

A late bloomer who didn’t make his professional debut until the age of 27, Delossantos has grown in confidence and stature with each fight. He pieced together arguably his most impressive performance in his last night, sending Yeuri Andujar to the canvas twice in the sixth and final round of their August bout en route to a decisive unanimous decision win.

“I feel like more of a veteran in that ring,” Delossantos said. “Skill-wise and confidence-wise, things continue to get better. I’ve been learning fast. Every fight is a showcase to prove myself and show my fans what I’m about and what I bring to the table.”

As for Vazquez’s style, Delossantos described his opponent as an elusive, slick boxer who “likes to move around a lot, box on the outside, and then jump in.” Will that deter Delossantos’ straight-forward approach?

“It’s nothing I haven’t seen before,” he said. “I feel like I can get him out of there by the fifth round. He won’t be able to take the pressure. He won’t be able to dance around with me that long.”

Aside from their unbeaten records, Vazquez and Delossantos couldn’t be more different. Vazquez, nicknamed “Kid,” began boxing at 8 years old, amassed an amateur record of 82-8 and advanced to the Junior Olympic semifinals before launching his pro career in 2016 under the guidance of Roy Jones Jr. Promotions. He recently upended previously unbeaten California prospect Brandon Cruz by split decision.

Delossantos admits he got into a light of fights while starring as a two-sport athlete at Pawtucket’s Tolman High School. He took up boxing to put his aggression toward a more worthwhile cause and keep himself out of trouble. Under the guidance of lifelong trainer Orlondo Valles, he enjoyed a brief amateur career before turning pro in 2017 with a win over fellow debut fighter and New England rival Philip Davis.

The stage has been set for what should be another epic CES Boxing showcase Thursday night at Twin River. There’s not much more to be said until that first bell rings. It may be the last time either fighter can claim to be undefeated.

“I believe I’m the smarter fighter,” Vazquez said. “I’m the more experienced fighter. I’m the better fighter. I’m a hard worker. The thrill of stepping into that ring and competing at the highest level is what drives me every day.”

Added Delossantos: “That record doesn’t mean anything until you’re in the ring with someone who can match you punch for punch. I’ve looked at some of the video to study his style, but that changes once you’re in the ring. He’s going to have to adjust to what I’m doing.”

Thursday’s event also features the return of Providence native Toka Kahn Clary (27-2, 18 KOs) in an eight-round super featherweight main event bout against Mexican challenger Dennis Contreras (21-10-1, 19 KOs). In perhaps another showstopper, Massachusetts rivals Ray Oliveira Jr. (8-3, 1 KO) of New Bedford and Springfield’s Derrick Whitley Jr. (6-1-1) face one another in a special six-round welterweight attraction.

Another fight threatening to steal the show is a six-round welterweight battle between Marqus Bates (7-3, 5 KOs) of Taunton, MA and crafty Culpeper, VA, vet Roque Zapata, who returns to Twin River following a back-and-forth showdown with Bates’ stablemate Victor Reynoso in November. Unbeaten Providence super welterweight Lamont Powell (5-0, 1 KO) returns in a six-round bout against Mexican challenger Carlos Huerta (6-5-2, 3 KOs) and fellow 154-pounder Anthony Concepcion (4-0-1, 4 KOs) of Providence puts his unbeaten record on the line in a four-round bout against 11-fight vet Martez Jackson (4-4-3, 2 KOs) of Valdosta, GA.

Next Thursday’s card also features the professional debut of Pawtucket super middleweight Hassler Chacon in a four-round bout against Brazilian Raush Manfio of Florida in addition to the return of East Providence, RI, native and decorated amateur Elijah Peixoto (2-0, 1 KO) in his third professional bout as he faces Philadelphia native Zaymar Brothers (0-1-1) in a four-round super lightweight bout. The 24-year-old Peixoto won four Southern New England Golden Gloves titles as an amateur and amassed an impressive 119-27 record that also included a trip to the 2018 U.S. Olympic Trials qualifiers.

Visit CESBoxing.com, Twitter.com/CESBoxing or Facebook.com/CESBoxing for more information, and follow CES Boxing on Instagram at @CESBOXING.

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.