Las Vegas – UFC^® today announced that the classic 2013 fight between UFC light heavyweight champion Jon Jones and Alexander Gustafsson will be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame’s ‘Fight Wing’ as part of the Class of 2020. The 2020 UFC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, presented by Toyo Tires^®, will take place on Thursday, July 9, at The Pearl at Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas. The event will be streamed live on UFC FIGHT PASS^®.

“Going into the first Jones vs. Gustafsson fight, fans and media didn’t care about the fight, because they didn’t believe Gustafsson deserved a title shot, and this thing ended up being the greatest light heavyweight title fight in UFC history,” UFC President Dana White said. “To be there and watch it live was amazing. It was an incredible fight and both athletes gave everything they had for all five rounds. This fight was such a classic it was named the 2013 Fight of the Year and will always be considered one of the greatest fights in combat sports history. This fight showed what a true champion Jon Jones was, as this was the first time he was taken into deep waters and truly tested. This fight also put Gustafsson on the map and showed his true potential. Congratulations to Jon Jones and Alexander Gustafsson on being inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame ‘Fight Wing’ for such an epic fight.”

As the main event of UFC^® 165: JONES vs. GUSTAFSSON, which took place on September 21, 2013 at Air Canada Centre in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, both athletes entered the matchup on extensive winning streaks. This event would also mark the third consecutive year that Jones would defend his title inside the iconic venue.

Jones entered the Octagon with an impressive 18-1 record and a nine-fight winning streak that included victories over former UFC light heavyweight champions Vitor Belfort, Rashad Evans, Lyoto Machida, Quinton Jackson and Mauricio “Shogun” Rua. This streak also included victories over former 2005 WEC^® heavyweight grand prix champion Brandon Vera and Chael Sonnen, with only one of those nine wins coming via decision.

Having successfully defended the UFC light heavyweight title five consecutive times, a victory against Gustafsson at UFC 165 would set a new record for most successive light heavyweight title defenses in UFC history, passing UFC Hall of Famer Tito Ortiz.

Gustafsson, competing for the first time in Canada, entered the arena with a 15-1 record and a six-fight winning streak that also included a victory over former UFC light heavyweight champion Rua.

Both Jones and Gustafsson traded a series of high and low kicks, as well as punches and elbows, throughout the majority of the first round, until a right hook by the Sweden native opened up a cut over Jones’ right eye with two minutes remaining in the round. Following 59 seconds of trading additional strikes, Jones would be taken down by Gustafsson for the first time in his career, as he had effectively stopped 13 previous attempts during his first 19 professional fights. Alexander would end the round having landed eight significant head strikes to Jones’ five, with Jon landing eight body strikes compared to Gustafsson’s four.

Round two began similarly to round one, with both Jones and Gustafsson continuously moving around the Octagon while connecting via punches and low kicks. With 2:30 remaining in the round, Jones connected on a left head kick, backing Gustafsson off from a takedown attempt. Alexander would employ skills from his amateur boxing background for the remainder of the round, thwarting Jones’ takedown attempts in the process. Gustafsson would land 16 significant head and body strikes, compared to Jon’s eight during the round.

Gustafsson opened the third round with a big combination to set the tone. With Jones having problems from the cut over his right eye, Alexander would continue his boxing attack, changing levels, and landing jabs and uppercuts with Jon countering by connecting on a series of low and high kicks. During the round, Alexander landed 24 significant head and body strikes compared to 19 from Jon. Jones and Gustafsson combined for 55 significant strikes in round three, setting a new record for a UFC light heavyweight title fight.

Round four marked the first time that Gustafsson had ever fought past three rounds in his professional MMA career. With both athletes pushing the pace, Alexander took the early advantage by landing several jabs and hooks, stuffing Jones’ takedown attempts in the process. Jones, bleeding heavily from his right eye, connected on a series of left elbows, stunning Gustafsson by landing a reverse elbow with 35 seconds remaining and capitalizing with elbows and knees with Alexander against the cage. Jones ended the round with an elbow and a flying knee, taking control of the round and the fight in the process. Jones and Gustafsson combined for 53 significant strikes in the fourth frame, which ranked as second-most in a light heavyweight title fight in UFC history at the time.

Jon and Alexander each entered the final round bleeding heavily and they each stayed in the center of the Octagon exchanging punches. Jones secured his first takedown of Gustafsson with 3:00 remaining, but both athletes quickly stood up. Jon would connect on a left head kick with 2:22 left in the round, but Alexander kept moving without showing any effects. With Gustafsson physically exhausted, Jones advanced, landing a series of high kicks and punches as Alexander struggled to stay on his feet. Jon would land three consecutive head kicks, an elbow and a flying knee to conclude the fight.

Jones would win the bout via unanimous decision (48-47, 48-47, 49-46), setting a new record for most consecutive title defenses in UFC light heavyweight history.

Both athletes combined to land 244 significant strikes, which set a new UFC light heavyweight record at the time and currently ranks second all-time in the division (260 – UFC 192 – Cormier vs. Gustafsson). Jon would also set two new UFC light heavyweight title fight records by landing 53 leg kicks and 134 significant strikes, surpassing his previous record of 105.

Gustafsson’s 110 significant strikes landed against Jones were the second-most by a light heavyweight in a UFC title fight in history at the time and ranked as the most strikes absorbed by Jones in any of his 20 fights, with 45 being the previous high. Alexander attempted 288 significant strikes during the fight, besting the previous high against Jon of 151 by Rashad Evans at UFC 145.

Gustafsson provided Jones with the toughest test of his career to date, while also matching Jon in some of his more favorable areas. A decorated wrestler in high school and junior college, Jones was unable to take Alexander down on 10 of his 11 attempts, with Gustafsson utilizing skills learned from training with former NCAA Division I National Champion wrestler (2008) Phil Davis.

An instant classic, this fight would earn 2013 Fight of the Year Award honors by ESPN, Sherdog, FOX Sports, Yahoo! Sports, MMA Junkie, MMA Fighting, MMA Weekly and the World MMA Awards.

The pair met in a rematch with the vacant UFC light heavyweight title on the line in the main event of UFC 232^®: JONES vs. GUSTAFSSON 2 on December 29, 2018 in Los Angeles. Jones would defeat Gustafsson for a second time, via TKO in the third round, to regain the UFC light heavyweight crown. Since recapturing the title at UFC 232, Jones has defended his title three times and recently set a new record for most championship victories in UFC history, with 14, following his unanimous decision victory over Dominick Reyes at UFC 247^®: JONES vs. REYES on February 8, 2020 in Houston.

Gustafsson returned to the Octagon on June 1, 2019, in the main event of UFC FIGHT NIGHT^®: GUSTAFSSON vs. SMITH, in his hometown of Stockholm, Sweden. Anthony Smith defeated Alexander via rear-naked choke submission in the fourth round. Following his defeat, Gustafsson retired inside the Octagon, ending an 11-year career with a record of 18-6 (10-6 UFC).

The remaining inductees of the UFC Hall of Fame Class of 2020 will be announced in the coming weeks leading to the 9^th Annual UFC International Fight Week™, which takes place from Tuesday, July 9 through Sunday, July 12 in Las Vegas.

To see a complete list of UFC athletes and fights enshrined in the UFC Hall of Fame, as well as details regarding the UFC Hall of Fame format, please visit UFCHOFFAQ. For additional information, please visit UFC.com.

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 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. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat and Instagram: @UFC.

ATLANTIC CITY–Gabriel Pham scored the biggest win of his career as he won an eight-round unanimous decision over Derrick Webster in a super middleweight bout that highlighted a six-bout card at Ballys Atlantic City Hotel and Casino

In round one, Pham dropped Webster with a jab. Pham drilled Webster with a perfect straight left in round four that sent him to the canvas.

There was some spirited exchanges down the stretch, but Pham won by scores 78-72 twice and 77-73.

Pham, 164 lbs of Atlantic City is 12-2. Webster, 166 lbs of Glassboro, NJ is 28-3.

Jeremy Cuevas stopped Nestor Paniagua in round three of a scheduled six-round junior welterweight bout.

The time was 2:55 of round three for Cuevas, 140.4 lbs of Philadelphia, who is now 13-1 with 10 knockouts. Paniagua, 137 lbs of Buenos Aries, ARG is 26-10-2.

Christian Tapia stopped Carlos Colon in round five of their scheduled six-round super featherweight bout.

The time of the finish was 2:02 for Tapia 131 lbs of Coamo, PR and is now 11-0 with 10 knockouts. Colon, 129 lbs of Hatillo, PR is 5-3.

Thomas Velasquez stopped Gustavo Molina in round three of a scheduled six-round lightweight bout.

In round three, Velasquez hurt Molina body shots several times. Velasquez backed Molina up in the corner and dropped Molina with another body shot, and the fight was stopped at 2:48.

Velasquez, 133.4 lbs of Philadelphia is 10-0-1 with six knockouts. Molina, 134 lbs of Mexico is 24-22 with nine knockouts.

Isiah Seldon stopped Darryl Bunting in round two of their scheduled six-round super middleweight bout.

Seldon dropped Bunting with a hard right hand to start the second frame. Seldon finished off Bunting with a plethora of hard shots that had referee Eric Dali stop the fight at 34 seconds.

Seldon, 159.4 lbs of Somers Point, NJ is 14-3-1 with five knockouts. Bunting. 162.6 lbs of Asbury Park, NJ is 4-7-2.

Benny Sinakin won a four-round unanimous decision over LeRoy Jones in a light heavyweight bout.

In round three, Jones was deducted a point for holding.

Jones was deducted another point for holding in the final frame.

Sinakin, 173.6 lbs of Philadelphia won by scores of 4034 on all cards and is now 6-0. Jones, 174.2 lbs of Saint Louis is 3-8.

Atlantic City, NJ (March 7, 2020)–Weights for Tonight’s Boxing card at Ballys Atlantic City Hotel and Casino

Derrick Webster 166 – Gabriel Pham 164
Christian Tapia 131 – Carlos Colon 129
Jeremy Cuevas 140.4 – Nestor Hugo Paniagua 137
Isiah Seldon 159.4 – Darryl Bunting 162.
Benny Sinakin 173.6 – Leroy Jones 174.2
Thomas Velasquez 133.4 – Gustavo Molina 134

Promoter: Hard Hitting Promotions
Venue: Ballys Atlantic Hotel and Casino
1st Bell: 7 PM

Tickets are on sale now for $100 for VIP, $65 for Ringside and $50 for VIP and can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com and at The Caesars Box Office.

Callum Johnson will take on Igor Mikhalkin for the vacant EBU European Light-Heavyweight Title on the undercard of the blockbuster Heavyweight clash between Dillian Whyte and Alexander Povetkin at Manchester Arena on Saturday May 2, live on Sky Sports Box Office.

Johnson (18-1, 13 KOs) challenged Artur Beterbiev for the IBF World Light-Heavyweight Title in the first ever live show on American soil on DAZN, and the pair put on a hell-raising shootout, with Johnson climbing off the canvas in the opening round to send Beterbiev to the deck in the second session.

After falling short in his first World Title shot, ‘The One’ took out Sean Monaghan in three rounds at the Turning Stone Resort & Casino in March 2019, but that turned out to be the Boston man’s only fight of the year, and he is keen to put a disappointing injury-hit year behind him by winning the European crown.

Mikhalkin (23-2, 10 KOs) held the European Light-Heavyweight Title for two years, winning the vacant title against Mohamed Belkacem in 2014 before making three successful defences against Hakim Chioui, Hugo Kasperski and Patrick Bois – all in France.

The Russian southpaw then picked up the vacant IBO Light-Heavyweight Title against Thomas Oosthuizen at the Barclaycard Arena in Hamburg before suffering only his second career defeat against Sergey Kovalev in a challenge for the WBO crown in 2018.

“He’s a good tough fighter,” said Johnson. “It’s a tough fight for me, he’s a solid southpaw, he’s been European Champion before and he lost to Kovalev when Kovalev was still top of his game. I’m expecting a very hard fight but it’s a fight that I’m looking forward to and I’m confident I can win.

“2019 got off to a flying start, I got a good win out in America and I impressed a lot of people with that performance. It’s a shame that I got injured because I think 2019 would have been a brilliant year for me. It didn’t turn out to be my year but we go again.

“To win the British, Commonwealth and European Titles will be a fantastic achievement and I’m confident of getting the win on May 2. It’s a fight that I’ve got to win. If I win then it potentially opens massive doors for me to get another World Title shot and earn some big money. If I lose, it’s a big setback.”

“I’m happy that I can showcase my skills against a tough opponent in the UK,” said Mikhalkin. “I know that Callum will come into our fight in very good shape and he has already shown he can trouble the best fighters in the world. I believe that I have what it takes to beat Callum, I’ve held the European Title before and made a number of successful defences, this is my belt and I’ll be taking it back to Russia after May 2.”

Whyte vs. Povetkin tops a huge night of action in Manchester as Katie Taylor (15-0, 6 KOs) and Amanda Serrano (38-1-1, 28 KOs) collide in a blockbuster super fight with the Irish legend’s Lightweight World Titles on the line against the seven-weight World Champion.

Tickets for Whyte vs. Povetkin are priced £40, £60, £80, £100, £150, £200 and £400 (VIP).

General Sale tickets are available to purchase NOW via Manchester Arena (www.manchester-arena.com), StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk) and Matchroom Boxing (www.matchroomboxing.com).

Irving, TX, March 7, 2020 — Evan “Yung Holy” Holyfield (3-0, 3 KOs) made his professional debut on November 2, 2019 and will fight his fourth fight tonight, Saturday, March 7, at the Toyota music Factory in Irving, Texas. Evan’s Head Coach Termite Watkins and his father Evander Holyfield discuss the process of the super middleweight, in which Evander’s take always lead to a story.

Watch Evan’s last fight (Feb. 8) here – catch Elijah and Evander ringside at the end https://youtu.be/F1TD1Ls6wLU

TERMITE WATKINS
We definitely want the fights to go longer (:16 KO, round 3 KO & 1:22 KO respectively), that’s where we get the experience but the main thing is we want him to learn the ring. This fight we have tomorrow the guy has one win and one draw (Dylan Carlson, 1-0-1, 1 KO) – Evan has 3 fights. It should be somewhat of an equal match. Then next time we will pick it up a little more and I’d like to find someone that has maybe five wins and five losses, but until he gets comfortable in the ring, until he gets to learning it, then, yes, we will progress slowly.

It’s just a process and getting him used to the ring. We could put him in against guys that are much better than him, and he would beat them, but they would be wars. We want to have our wars later – not right now – we want to get him experience. That’s what this is all about – experience.

Every fight he has been in he has learned something, without a doubt. He’s learned how to be aggressive. This time he is probably going to move and box more, depending on circumstances. We are handpicking things that we want to work on and each time we work on something different. One fight we worked on our right hand, one fight we worked on our left. This fight we will be working more on boxing and using his jab more. This fight our goal is to use our jab a whole lot more. From there we will pick up the pace – he has had three fights so far, then at the time we feel comfortable it will start moving real quick, but we are not going to move real quick until we are comfortable.

EVANDER HOLYFIELD
Evan is doing good but it’s kind of hard to tell when you first start off because you are trying to figure out what type of fighters he is fighting compared to who that champion is in that weight division, to know where he has to get. Right now I think just getting him comfortable when he’s in there and showing that it’s not that much different than being in the gym.

Evan is kind of skillful and I think you get tested when you get good sparring partners – somebody who has done something, somebody that used to be a champion.

I remember when I sparred against the guy from Philadelphia (Bert Cooper) that made George Foreman quit boxing the first time. They put him in there and my trainer Georgie Benton told me I wouldn’t even get a lick on him and the first round I took it slow trying to figure him out. The second round I hit him with a combination ‘boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom.’ It was more than the three punches he normally got – it was six, seven or eight because I know he could block the first two. He thought I would pull back after the first two but I hit him with the next six (laughing) and they had to pull me off him.

(Back to Evan) So I am looking forward to him stepping it up to another level. He was a good amateur fighter and as he’s coming along. He’ll have to find someone that will keep him on the outside. Right now he is keeping the opponents on the outside. People that are aggressive can’t stand the other guy being aggressive, and with me I always knew that – like with Mike Tyson – he couldn’t fight going backwards to save his life and I knew that so I pushed him backwards and it proved the fact that people don’t want people to do things to you that you do to them. (Then he bit your ear) Yep (laughing), he sure did.

(Do you get excited for his fights?) I kind of push my emotions down because I know that’s the way I was supposed to be when I fought, but it’s difficult because I’m his father. I make myself emotionless, and not look at it being big and all this. Being able to look at him and he won’t see any stress on my face regardless.

I realize that I come from a very emotional family and it always bothered me and it made me think “ya’ll don’t believe in me.” I remember with the first fight against Dwight Muhammad Qawi, they all said ‘you are throwing him in there too quick,’ but I always believed I could beat anybody they put in the ring.

EVAN HOLYFIELD
I’ve seen my opponent fight and I know he is going to come to fight. I am just going to go out there and hit and don’t get hit and let my punches do the talking. Regarding my dad and my last name . . . I don’t feel any pressure. When I get in the ring I fight for myself. I am in the ring for me. I don’t care if no one showed up to watch. I don’t care if I had my mom’s last name, I would still go in there to give it my all. I feel like I have the talent that got me this far and it is just a matter of staying focused, staying in love with the sport.

COMPARING
My dad and I were the same size all through our lives and now we are both 6’2” but I am still eating my Wheaties to try to get that extra inch.

• * *

Lone Star State-based non-profit organization Ring of Hope returns for a resounding night of sanctioned professional boxing when it presents its ninth annual “Night To Fight” pro boxing and charity event on Saturday, March 7 at the Toyota Music Factory in Irving, Texas. The main event will present an 8 round light heavyweight attraction between two battle-tested warriors when Dallas-Fort Worth born-and-bred boxer Samuel Clarkson (22-5, 15 KOs) challenges the Freddie Roach-trained Israel Duffus (19-6, 16 KOs). Also to be featured in separate bouts are welterweights Jessy Martinez (14-0, 9 KOs) and Brandyn Lynch (10-1, 8 KOs), cruiserweight Robin Safar (10-0, 7 KOs) and heavyweight Patrick Mailata (4-0, 2 KOs), Austin-based super lightweight Robert Kevin Garcia (6-0, 5 KOs) and the Corpus Christi-based lightweight John Rincon (4-0, 2 KOs).

Night To Fight will be available live on Integrated Sports Pay Per View on cable, satellite and digital pay-per-view via iN Demand, Vubiquity, DIRECTV and DISH in the United States, Shaw PPV in Canada and worldwide via the FITE.TV app and website.

Hall of Fame Showtime TV broadcaster Al Bernstein, former two-division world champion Paulie Malignaggi and LA Times and Boxing Scene journalist and writer Manouk Akopyan will call the action from ringside.

Philadelphia, PA (March 6 2020) -Weights for Saturday night’s card at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

Samuel Teah 140.8 lbs – Dieumerci Nzau 139.7
Brandon Robinson 169.4 – Josue Obando 171
Nahir Albright 136.2 – Andrew Rodgers 141.5
Victor Medina 117.1 – Michael Stoute 118.5
Naheem Parker 138.9 – Anthony Carter 139.1
Rashiem Jefferson 125 – Nathan Benichou 125.7
LaQuan Evans 154 – Anthony Young 150.4
Nafear Charles 135 – Joseph Santana 132.3
Ryan Umberger 155 – Estevan Payan 155

Promoter: RDR Promotions
1st Bell: 7:00 PM

Tickets are $125 VIP with a drink; $75 Ringside and $55 General Admission and can be purchased at 2300arena.com

16:30 DOORS AND FIRST BELL

LIVE ON BEFORE THE BELL

4 x 3 mins Super-Flyweight contest
BLANE HYLAND 8st 3lbs 4oz v JOEL SANCHEZ 8st 4lbs 4oz
(Liverpool)                                   (Nicaragua)

4 x 3 mins Super Middleweight 
BRADLEY REA 11st 7lbs v PAVOL GARAJ 11st 9bs
(Stretford)                             (Slovakia)

4 x 3 mins Lightweight contest
AQIB FIAZ 9st 9lbs 12oz v DEAN JONES 9st 10lbs 7oz                             
(Oldham)                              (Telford)

17:50 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS FACEBOOK

6 x 3 mins Super-Lightweight contest
DALTON SMITH 10st 1lb 12oz v BENSON NYILAWILA 10st 1lb 1oz
(Sheffield)                                     (Tanzania)
 
8 x 3 mins Super-Lightweight contest 
ROBBIE DAVIES JR 10st 3lbs 8oz v DAMIAN LEONARDO YAPUR 10st 3lbs            
(Liverpool)                                           (Argentina)

19:00 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS 

8 x 3 mins Middleweight contest
JACK CULLEN 11st 7lbs 12oz v TOMAS ANDRES REYNOSO 11st 8lbs       
(Little Leaver)                               (Argentina)     

12 x 3 mins Super-Featherweight contest 
SCOTT QUIGG 9st 3lbs 6oz v JONO CARROLL 9st 4lbs
(Bury)                                         (Dublin)

FLOAT

6 x 3 mins Welterweight contest 
RESHAT MATI 10st 6lbs 9oz v ABDALLAH LUANJA 10st 7lbs 7oz
(New York, USA)                       (Tanzania)

New York, NY (March 6, 2020) DiBella Entertainment’s acclaimed Broadway Boxing series, celebrating its 17th year, has moved its scheduled March 12 event in Miami, FL, to Thursday, March 19 at the Showboat Atlantic City in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The event will still be headlined by Ghanaian lightweight contender Emmanuel “The Gameboy” Tagoe (31-1, 15 KOs) battling Filipino veteran Rey “The Technician” Perez (24-11, 8 KOs) and live streamed exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, beginning at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT.

Advance tickets, priced at $100 (Ringside), $65 (Reserved) and $35 (General Admission), may be purchased on Eventbrite HERE or by calling DiBella Entertainment at (212) 947-2577. Doors on the night of the event will open at 6:30 p.m. ET with the first bell at 7:00 p.m. ET. The Showboat Atlantic City is located at 801 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401. More information can be found on their website, www.ShowboatHotelAC.com.

“I’m thrilled to bring the next Broadway Boxing event to the Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City, NJ, on Thursday, March 19. World ranked Ghanaian lightweight contender Emmanuel Tagoe faces Filipino Rey Perez in a terrific main event, streamed live on UFC Fight Pass,” said 2020 International Boxing Hall-of-Fame Inductee Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “The stacked undercard includes two exciting female fights, featuring former world champion Kali Reis and rising prospect Logan Holler. Colombian Olympian Juan Carlos Carrillo will take on Demetri Bentley in a battle of unbeaten light heavyweight prospects and the popular Dusty Harrison, from Washington, D.C., will see action as well.”

Fighting out of the talent-laden region of Accra, Ghana, world-ranked lightweight Emmanuel “The Gameboy” Tagoe (31-1, 15 KOs) will seek to keep his remarkable winning streak intact, facing Rey “The Technician” Perez (24-11, 8 KOs), of North Hollywood, CA, by way of Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines, in the 10-round main event. Tagoe has won 31 fights in a row since his lone defeat in his 2004 pro debut.

Ranked #2 by the WBO, #6 by the IBF, and #10 by the WBC, Tagoe will be fighting in the United States for the first time in seven years. Most recently, the heavy-handed Ghanaian knocked out Ishmael Aryeetey in the sixth round, on July 20, 2019, in Accra. He also holds victories against former world champions Moses Paulus and Mzonke Fana.

Said Tagoe manager, Peter Kahn, “Emmanuel has been in camp in Florida for four months away from home in Ghana, away from his family. He has been working hard, he’s in excellent condition and ready to fight on March 19 in Atlantic City. As the WBO #2 rated lightweight in the world, Emmanuel is in line for big fights in 2020.”

The 30-year-old Perez hits the ring following a hard-fought decision loss to undefeated contender George Kambosos on January 19, 2019, in Las Vegas. Perez has been tested against solid opposition throughout his 11-year career, facing Jessie Magdaleno, Lamont Roach, Chris Avalos and Oscar Duarte. Prior to the loss against Kambosos, Perez stopped Christian Gonzalez in the seventh round on October 18, 2018, in Los Angeles, CA.

The co-feature will have former world champion Kali “KO Mequinonoag” Reis (16-7-1, 5 KOs), of Providence, RI, fighting in a scheduled eight-round welterweight bout. Since challenging undisputed champion Cecilia Braekhus in May of 2018, Reis has won three consecutive fights, including a six-round decision on August 29, 2019, against Patricia Juarez.

In a scheduled six-round light heavyweight battle of unbeaten prospects, 2016 Colombian Olympian Juan Carlos Carrillo (3-0, 2 KOs) continues his ascent as a professional challenging hard-hitting Demetri Bentley (8-0, 6 KOs), of Atlanta, GA. The 27-year-old Carrillo is staying busy in 2020, scoring a second-round knockout of Ben Williams on February 8, in Daytona Beach, FL. Following an active 2019, fighting eight times last year, the 24-year-old Bentley returns to action after an eight-round unanimous decision versus Ian Darby on September 29, 2019.

Exciting female junior middleweight prospect and newly signed to DiBella Entertainment, Logan Holler (8-0-1, 3 KOs), of Columbia, SC, clashes with Leslie Pope (4-1, 3 KOs), of Kansas City, MO, in a six-round bout. Fighting for the first time in 2020, the former star college athlete Holler has moved her training to South Florida, where she is guided by Javiel Centeno in a camp alongside Tagoe and Kambosos. She is looking to bounce back following the only blemish on her record; a six-round majority draw to Bertha Aracil on February 23, 2019.

Rounding out the card, undefeated light heavyweight contender Dusty Harrison (34-0-1, 24 KOs) will compete in an eight-round bout. The 25-year-old Washington D.C. resident is currently riding a five-bout winning streak against top-level competition. Most recently, he knocked out Les Sherrington in the second round on February 8, 2020, in Vienna, Virginia. The Harrison bout is presented in association with Lee Baxter Promotions.

Broadway Boxing is presented by Nissan of Queens, Azad Watches, OPTYX, Christos Steak House and Gagliardi Insurance.

NEW YORK CITY (March 6, 2020) — Before Irish sensation Michael “Mick” Conlan enters the ring against Colombian slugger Belmar Preciado in front of a raucous St. Patrick’s Day crowd at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden (ESPN+, 8 p.m. ET), many of the sport’s brightest young stars will look to steal the holiday spotlight.

Josue “The Prodigy” Vargas will make the first defense of his IBF North American 140-pound belt Tuesday, March 17 against Salvador Briceno in a 10-rounder. Vargas (16-1, 9 KOs), from the Bronx, N.Y., has won 10 consecutive bouts since an October 2016 disqualification defeat. Briceno (17-5, 11 KOs), from Guadalajara, Mexico, has won two of three since pushing undefeated prospect Gabriel Flores Jr. the distance last June in Reno, Nev. 

Vargas-Briceno, along with the returns of top prospects Julian “Hammer Hands” Rodriguez, Paddy “Real Deal” Donovan and Christopher “The Boy” Zavala, will stream live on ESPN+ starting at 5 p.m. ET.

“I’m excited to be fighting in my hometown on such a stacked card,” Vargas said. “It’s an honor to defend my belt in front of my friends, family and biggest supporters. I can’t wait for another spectacular fight night and to put on a show for everyone who will be watching on ESPN+.”

Rodriguez (19-0, 12 KOs), the fighting pride of Hasbrouck Heights, N.J., will face former top prospect Dannie Williams (24-3, 18 KOs) in an eight-rounder at super lightweight. Rodriguez fought three times in the last five months of 2019 after nearly two years out of the ring due to assorted injuries. Williams, from Saint Louis, returned to the ring last April following more than five years away from it. He last fought in January, notching a 10-round decision over Andre Keys (12-1 at the time).

Donovan (3-0, 2 KOs), a 13-time national amateur champion from Limerick, Ireland, will be making his American debut in a six-round welterweight contest against Gregory Young (4-3, 1 KO). Donovan is trained and managed by former middleweight world champion Andy Lee.

“I can’t wait for my U.S. debut. I learned so much from training alongside Tyson Fury recently,” Donovan said. “I’m taking that experience into this fight. Thank you to Top Rank for putting me on this card. Conlan’s St. Patrick’s Day cards are always exciting, and I’m happy to be part of the festivities.”

Zavala (6-0, 3 KOs), a 20-year-old from Long Beach, Calif., will fight Rennard Oliver (7-2-3, 0 KOs) in a six-rounder at super featherweight. Oliver has never been knocked out as a pro and is coming off a draw against Raul Manrique Jr. (4-0 at the time).

In other action on the undercard stream:

• Feargal McCrory (11-0, 5 KOs), one of Ireland’s top young prospects, will make his United States debut against the durable Juan Tapia (9-3, 3 KOs) in a six-rounder at super featherweight. Tapia, who has fought the likes of current WBO featherweight world champion Shakur Stevenson, has never been knocked out as a pro.
   
• Matthew Tinker (2-0, 2 KOs), from Scarborough, England, will face Esai Herrera (2-1, 1 KO) in a four-rounder at light heavyweight. Tinker has scored a pair of first-round knockouts to begin his career. 

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets priced at $200, $100, $70, $40 and $30 (not including applicable fees) are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased at the Madison Square Garden Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster charge by phone (866-858-0008) and online at www.ticketmaster.com or www.MSG.com.

For more information, visit www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook:facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing and twitter.com/ESPNRingside; IG:instagram.com/espnringside/

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Atlantic City, NJ (March 6, 2020)–Atlantic City native Gabriel Pham believes that he is ready to even the score with Derrick Webster when they meet this Saturday night in an eight-round super middleweight main event at Ballys Atlantic City Hotel and Casino.

The card is promoted by Hard Hitting Promotions.

Pham, who has had several stops and starts in his career, is ready for a victory that will put him on the map in the super middleweight division. Pham has been training with world championship trainer, Raul “Chino” Rivas, and has been working hard in preparation for this bout.

“Training camp was good. I have been preparing for this bout for a while. As soon I was able to start training after my last fight, I started camp for Saturday night,” said Pham.

One of the big motivating factors for Pham was an amateur bout, which was the last one for Webster before he turned pro, where Webster defeated Pham.

“He beat me as an amateur,” continued Pham. “That is why I want this fight, but we are completely different fighters. He talked about when we sparred, we are different fighters from that point as well.”

Being in Atlantic City, Pham has something to prove to the hometown fans as this will be the the 10th time that Pham has laced up the gloves in the boardwalk town.”

“It’s a big fight, and because it is in my hometown, people will talk about it. Heck I live about three blocks from Ballys, so yes I am excited about this fight.”

Taking on a formidable opponent in Webster is what Pham wanted as he only wants to fight quality opposition in order to achieve what he wants, and that is to be a world champion.

“I am coming off a loss in my last bout to Ievgen Khytrov, and now I am fighting Derrick. I want to take on guys in the top-50 and then top-20, top-15 and so on. When I win on Saturday night, that will help me get to those goals.”

“I actually want to possibly move down to 160 pounds, I have been eating three-times a day and have been drinking, but the motivation to get even for that amateur fight is the reason why I took this fight. I saw that he feels that I am not on his level, and he can talk all that he wants to, but I know he respects me.”

Pham also has another big and personal reason to perform on Saturday.

“I want to dedicate the fight to people battling Mental Health Issues. I have been battling depression for about 10 years. I think it is so great what Tyson Fury has done in making awareness of this. I just want everyone to know that Saturday night will be a great fight.”

Said Pham’s Manager Rich Masini, “Gabriel is very confident and this is the nest that I haver seen him mentally and physically as he went into a fight.”

In six-round Bouts:

Anthony Young (21-2, 8 KOs) of Atlantic City battles Jorge Martin Garcia (13-7-1, 3 KOs) of Buenos Aries, Argentina in a six-round welterweight bout.

Jeremy Cuevas (12-1, 9 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Nestor Hugo Paniagua (26-9-2, 17 KOs) of Santa Fe, Argentina in an lightweight bout.

Christian Tapia (10-0, 9 KOs) of Coamo, Puerto Rico fights Carlos Colon (5-2, 2 KOs) of Hatillo, Puerto Rico in a super featherweight contest.

Thomas Velasquez (9-0-1, 5 KOs) of Philadelphia squares off with Gustavo Molina (24-21, 9 KOs) of Tlaxcala, Mexico in a lightweight fight.

Isiah Seldon (13-3-1, 4 KOs) of Atlantic City fights Darryl Bunting (4-6-2, 2 KOs) of Asbury Park, NJ in a six-round super middleweight fight.

In four-round bouts:

Benny Sinakin (5-0, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Leroy Jones (3-7, 2 KOs) of Saint Louis in a light heavyweight contest.

THE WEIGH IN WILL TAKE PLACE TODAY AT THE BOOK AT BALLYS AT 3 PM ET

Tickets are on sale now for $100 for VIP, $65 for Ringside and $50 for VIP and can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com and at The Caesars Box Office.

Lee Selby will take on George Kambosos Jr in a Final Eliminator for the IBF Lightweight World Title on Saturday May 9 at the Motorpoint Arena Cardiff, live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN.

Selby (28-2, 9 KOs), a former IBF Featherweight World Champion, edged out Scottish legend Ricky Burns via a majority decision at The O2 in London last October to stay in line for another World Title shot and now finds himself within touching distance of becoming a two-weight World Champion. 

Kambosos Jr (18-0, 10 KOs), hailing from Sydney in Australia, defeated former World Champion Mickey Bey on away territory at Madison Square Garden in New York last time out to announce himself as a rising star of the Lightweight division and has vowed to ‘retire’ Selby in front of his home crowd. 

 “It’s great to be boxing back at home in Cardiff after six years boxing all over the UK and US,” said Selby. “I’m one step away now from a shot at the IBF Lightweight World Title and my dream of becoming Wales’ first ever two-weight World Champion.

“Kambosos Jr is a hungry young fighter that I know will bring it all, but I’ve had some of my best performances against Australian boxers stopping both Corey McConnell and Joel Brunker in title fights and May 9th will be no different.”

“I’m excited and I cannot wait to fight Lee Selby in this IBF World Title Eliminator on May 9^th where the winner will become the Mandatory Challenger for the winner of Lomachenko vs. Lopez,” said Kambosos Jr.

“I defeated former World Champion Mickey Bey in his backyard at Madison Square Garden in December and I am ready to beat another former World Champion in his backyard in Cardiff, Wales.

“I’m excited for a fight of this magnitude and look forward to retiring Lee Selby in his hometown with a dominating and punishing performance in addition to gaining all of the UK supporters that will get behind me toward winning my World Title.”

Northern Irish Lightweight powerhouse James Tennyson (26-3, 22 KOs) faces Welshman Gavin Gwynne (12-1, 2 KOs) for the British Title in his very first contest as a Matchroom Boxing fighter, Bournemouth Cruiserweight talent Chris Billam-Smith (10-1, 9 KOs) defends his Commonwealth Title against undefeated Cardiff man Nathan Thorley (14-0, 6 KOs),’The Welsh Wizard’ Joe Cordina (11-0, 7 KOs) returns home for the first time since 2018, rising Super-Middleweight monster John Docherty (8-0, 6 KOs) continues his march towards a first title shot and there’s action for Newport Bantamweight Sean McGoldrick (9-1, 2 KOs) and Swindon Super-Middleweight Jamie Cox (25-2, 14 KOs).

“I’m delighted to be coming back to the Motorpoint Arena Cardiff for the first time in 6 years,” said Eddie Hearn. “We’ve got a great card with a blistering main event that will be a real firecracker between Lee Selby and George Kambosos Jr with the winner being Mandatory to the winner of Lomachenko vs. Lopez.

“Joe Cordina will take another step up as he sets his sights on a World Title in the next 12 months and Belfast’s big-punching James Tennyson takes on Gavin Gwynne in a cracking fight. ‘The Gentleman’ Chris Billam-Smith defends his Commonwealth Title against Cardiff’s’s Nathan Thorley, Super-Middleweight powerhouse John Docherty marches on and former Super-Middleweight champ Jamie cox returns to action alongside Sean McGoldrick. There’s plenty to be added to what will be a guaranteed sell-out in Cardiff – see you there!”

“On May 9th, George will earn his right to fight for the IBF World Title by becoming the Mandatory Challenger,” said Peter Kahn, Manager of Kambosos Jr. “I have no doubt in my mind that George will defeat Lee Selby. This opportunity has been seven years in the making and George will take full advantage what’s in front of him.”

Adam Smith, Sky Sports’ Head of Boxing Development said: “Lee Selby is within touching distance of another World Title fight and we’re excited to be back in Wales for this must-win clash against George Kambosos Jr.

“Welsh boxing has given us some memorable nights down the years, with Robbie Regan, Steve Robinson, Nicky Piper, Barry Jones, Enzo Maccarinelli, Nathan Cleverly and of course Joe Calzaghe. We’ve loved covering some fabulous fights.

“Selby gave us a timely reminder of his classy skills against Ricky Burns, but his bid to become a two-weight World Champion could be ended by Kambosos Jr, who comes to Britain with big ambitions of his own.

 “The local fans will really get behind Lee, on his long-awaited return to Cardiff, and he will be determined to produce a vintage display against the dangerous Kambosos Jr.”

Tickets priced £40, £60, £100 and £200 (VIP) go on General Sale on Monday March 9 at midday via StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk), Motorpoint Arena Cardiff (www.motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk) Matchroom Boxing (www.matchroomboxing.com).

Zach Parker (18-0, 12 KOs) and Rohan Murdock (24-1, 17 KOs) made weight today as the WBO No.1 and WBO No.2 ranked super middleweights clash tomorrow night at the Manchester Arena, live on Sky Sports and DAZN.

Parker and Murdock both face their toughest career tests as they battle it out for the WBO International title and a chance to challenge the reigning WBO World Super Middleweight Champion Billy Joe Saunders.

WBO International Super Middleweight Championship:
Zach Parker: 75.74kg
Rohan Murdock: 75.74kg

Parker vs. Murdock is part of a huge night of action in Manchester.

Main event sees Scott Quigg (35-2-2, 26 KOs) take on Jono Carroll (17-1-1, 3 KOs) in an exciting Super-Featherweight matchup, Manchester Heavyweight contender Hughie Fury (23-3, 13 KOs) returns as he looks to fight his way back into title action in 2020, Liverpool Super-Welterweight talent Anthony Fowler (11-1, 8 KOs) continues his hunt for a rematch with Scott Fitzgerald, Sheffield Super-Lightweight starlet Dalton Smith (4-0, 3 KOs) looks to go 5-0, Bolton’s Jack Cullen (17-2, 8 KOs) returns after his FOTY contender with Felix Cash, ‘The Albanian Bear’ Reshat Mati (6-0, 4 KO’s) makes his UK debut in a Welterweight contest, Ricky Hatton-trained Super-Featherweight Ibrahim Nadim (1-0) looks to impress and there’s action for Oldham Lightweight Aqib Fiaz (4-0) and Liverpool Super-Flyweight Blane Hyland (2-0), with more fights to be announced soon.

Tickets priced £40, £60, £100 and £200 (VIP) are available to purchase now via Manchester Arena (www.manchester-arena.com), StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk) and Matchroom Boxing (www.matchroomboxing.com).

London, UK (6 March 2020) British Light-Heavyweight title challenger Chad Sugden says he’ll break Shakan Pitters in half with body shots when they clash on Saturday 28th March at the Coventry Skydome, exclusively live across the UK on Channel 5.

The Newark fighter met with his 6’ 6” Birmingham rival for the first time at yesterday’s press conference at Coventry’s famous landmark The Belgrade Theatre, although they didn’t strictly meet ‘face-to-face’ with Pitters towering over the 6ft Sugden.

Not only will Sugden (11-1-1, 4 KO’s) have to deal with a six-inch height deficit in the fight, but he’ll also have to contend with Pitters’ staggering 85 inch reach – 10 inches more than Sugden.

However, Sugden’s not bothered with his physical disadvantages and will instead focus on his own game plan and has promised to smash Pitters’ body with a ferocious and relentless attack to his ribs from the first bell.

The 25-year-old says he’s faced even taller opponents than Pitters when he was on the kickboxing circuit and knows exactly how to deal with him.

“His physical advantages are plainly obvious and it would be stupid of me to try and box him,” Said Sugden.

“The only way to get to Pitters is to stick to him like glue and smash away at his body until it breaks to make him drop his hands and then I’ll nail him with the head shots. It’s like chopping down a mighty oak tree with an axe, it will take some time but that tree will eventually fall.”

“I’ve always been a good body puncher and have stopped a few that way in my fights. I’ve faced much taller men than Pitters in kick-boxing fights, especially those boys from the Eastern block, real beasts from the east, nearly 7ft tall and you have to get past the kicks and knees to get into range. I’ve overcome them and I’ll do the same and overcome Pitters,”

“Pitters is tall and lean and once I get inside his jab and start working away at his ribs he won’t be able to keep me off him. I’ll be all over him like a shark feeding on a whale carcass. I won’t give him a moment to catch his breath and once I cut off the oxygen to his lungs then it’s my fight,”

“Winning the British title means everything to me. It’s a dream to receive this shot and I’ll put everything I’ve got into this fight, nothing will be left to chance. This shot may not come around again so I’m making sure I leave the ring with that belt.”

A top quality undercard is headlined with the return of red-hot cruiserweight talent Isaac Chamberlain from Brixton, South London, as he returns to action and back on his pursuit of a world title.

The card also features some great Midlands match ups that includes a fiery Coventry derby between welterweights Jordan Cooke and Michael Green over six-rounds; Birmingham’s Ishmael Ellis takes on Walsall’s Shaun Cooper over six rounds at lightweight; Coventry’s River Wilson Bent clashes with Tamworth’s Lee Gunter in a four-round light-middleweight contest; Tamworth welterweight Tom Silcox in a four-round contest; Birmingham super-featherweight Lewis Coley in a four-round contest; Leamington Spa lightweight Danny Quartermine in a four-round contest and Battersea light-heavyweight Mark Williams in a four-round contest.

Also on the card will be exciting middleweight prospect Michael Hennessy Jr. from Sevenoaks, Kent, in his fifth professional bout in a six round contest.

For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports and join the conversation at #PittersSugden #BritishTitle

Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano will collide in a blockbuster super fight at Manchester Arena on May 2 as the Irish legend puts her Lightweight World Titles on the line against Puerto Rico’s seven-weight World Champion, live on Sky Sports Box Office.

Two-weight World Champion Taylor can strengthen her status as one of the sport’s finest fighters against Serrano on the same night as Dillian Whyte risks his World Title ambitions in a huge Heavyweight encounter with the fearsome Alexander Povetkin.

Taylor (15-0, 6 KOs) sealed a dominant points win over Christina Linardatou to claim the WBO Super-Lightweight title at the same venue in November as she stepped up a division after becoming the Undisputed Lightweight ruler against Delfine Persoon in New York.

Serrano (38-1-1, 28 KOs) enhanced her reputation for thrilling fights with an action-packed points win over Heather Hardy at Madison Square Garden in September, while she sharpened her skills for Taylor in a stoppage win over Simone Aparacida Da Silva in Miami in January.

“It’s a fight that seems to have been talked about for years so I’m just glad it’s finally on,” said Taylor. “It’s a massive fight and one that I have been looking forward to for a long, long time.

“I’ve been working hard in training camp in the US since the start of the year so it’s great have a date to focus on now and I can’t wait for May 2nd.”

“I’m happy we finally got this big fight made because both myself & Katie deserve to be in this position,” said Serrano. “While our fight could have been a main event, I’m still grateful it’s happening. I’m not going to talk down to Katie, as I know she won’t to me, so I’ll leave it at this: one thing that’s for sure is that we’ll both leave it all in the ring. Thanks to my Promoter Lou DiBella, Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Boxing, DAZN & Katie Taylor for this great opportunity. See you in Manchester!”

“Katie Taylor versus Amanda Serrano for the Undisputed Lightweight Championship of the World – this is the biggest women’s fight of all time,” said Eddie Hearn. “The whole of Ireland and Puerto Rico are going to be watching this absolute war between the Undisputed champion and the seven weight division champion – it doesn’t get any bigger!”

“I’m proud to co-promote this historic fight with Matchroom, and to have it featured on a massive card in Manchester,” said Lou DiBella. “Two of the best female fighters in the world, two of the best of all time, will square up for boxing supremacy. Amanda didn’t shy away from moving back up in weight or from the fight being in the UK; she embraced the idea of winning on the road and cementing international stardom. Taylor vs. Serrano isn’t only the best of women’s boxing, it’s the best of what boxing is supposed to be.”

Adam Smith, Head of Sky Sports Boxing Development, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to add Katie Taylor’s sensational showdown with Amanda Serrano to the Whyte-Povetkin bill. With Sky Sports increasing its commitment to women’s sport, we’ll be showcasing the biggest fight of Taylor’s professional career after following every step of her epic journey.

“We’ve witnessed Serrano’s all-action style, having covered her breathless battle with Heather Hardy. A magnificent multi-weight champion, Serrano now takes on Taylor, Ireland’s dazzling star, as two elite competitors collide in Manchester. Whyte also rolls the dice in a high-risk Heavyweight battle with Povetkin. Two explosive encounters that can only supply fireworks for fight fans.”

Tickets for Taylor vs. Serrano are priced £40, £60, £80, £100, £150, £200 and £400 (VIP).

Tickets are on sale to Fight Pass members NOW via StubHb (www.stubhub.co.uk) and Matchroom Boxing (www.matchroomboxing.com).

General Sale tickets are available to purchase from 10.00am on Friday March 6 via Manchester Arena (www.manchester-arena.com), StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk) and Matchroom Boxing (www.matchroomboxing.com).

CHIHUAHUA, MEXICO. (Mar. 5, 2020): Oscar Duarte (18-1, 13 KOs) and Andres Garcia (13-2-1, 8 KOs) hosted their final press conference today at the J. Quissime Restaurant Bar in Parral, Chihuahua, Mexico ahead of their 10-round fight for the vacant NABF Lightweight Title. The event will take place Saturday, Mar. 7 at The Gimnasio Municipal in Chihuahua, Mexico and will be streamed live on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page.

Below is what today’s participants had to say at the press conference:

OSCAR DUARTE, Lightweight Contender:
“The truth is, I’m super happy. I see all of this, and I don’t believe it. For me, it’s an honor to fight for the best promoter in the world, which is Golden Boy. And to fight here at my home, it’s also an honor. For this fight, I prepared myself very well, and I feel ready to win. We are going to win a new title this Saturday, and then we’re going for more.”

ANDRES GARCIA, Lightweight Contender:
“I want to thank God for the great opportunity to be part of this card. I’m here to tell you that I didn’t come to Mexico for nothing. I’ve been preparing. I’m coming to this fight, and I’m willing to take that title to my homeland, to my people in Fonseca, Colombia, who have never had a title like the one I am going to give them.”

LUIS HERNANDEZ, Super Lightweight Contender:
“I am very prepared, and I hope that my opponent is too. For me it’s a beautiful thing to return to Parral, Mexico. A lot of fighters have started their careers here, including some of my teammates. I also made my debut in Parral. I think it will be complicated for my opponent to take this title to Colombia.”

PLACIDO RAMIREZ, Super Lightweight Contender:
“I want to thank God, my agent, and my coaches for allowing me to fight as part of this undercard. I’m ready to show myself off and give a good fight. I’m prepared to take the title to my home city of Soplaviento, Colombia.”

WILLIAM ZEPEDA, Lightweight Contender:
“It’s an honor for me to be part of an undercard like this. I want to thank all the people who have supported me. I’ve trained well for this fight and I feel very motivated and prepared. I know I have a good rival here, but I have the desire to win and start 2020 on the right foot and keep moving forward.”

Duarte vs. Garcia is a 10-round fight for the vacant NABF Lightweight Title presented by Golden Boy in association with the Municipality of Hidalgo del Parral and 2M Promotions. The event will take place Saturday, March 7 at the Gimnasio Municipal in Parral, Chihuahua, Mexico. The fights will be streamed live globally on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com. Become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy Follow the conversation using #DuarteGarcia. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing.

Photos and videos are available to download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link http://bit.ly/DuarteGarcia into a browser. Credit must be given to Golden Boy for photos and videos used.

NEW YORK (March 5, 2020) – World heavyweight title challenger and two-time New York Golden Gloves champion Lou Savarese (46-7, 38 KOs) is living the dream, as they say, preparing for his upcoming induction into the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF).

As one of the 28-member Class of 2020, the popular Savarese will be formally inducted at the ninth annual NYSBHOF induction dinner, Sunday afternoon (12:30-5:30 p.m. ET), April 19, at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.

“I have nothing but the upmost respect and admiration for this year’s Hall of Fame honoree, Lou Savarese,” NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy said. “I couldn’t be happier for this man who has given boxing his all, in and out of the ring. His friends and family know that this honor is well deserved.”

Savarese was a local favorite, born in the Bronx and from Greenwood Lake, who was a two-time New England Golden Gloves champion having fought at the famed Madison Square Garden.

“This is truly amazing,” Savarese spoke about being inducted into the NYSBHOF. “I’m a New York boxing historian, going back to the 1920’s of New York boxing history. It’s so nice to have fought in the best place, New York, the epicenter of boxing.

Savarese turned pro April 30, 1989, knocking out James Smith in the fourth round of their fight in Houston. Savarese went on to win his first won his first 36 pro fights, highlighted by his 36th by a seventh-round technical knockout victory of Buster Mathis, Jr. for the vacant United States Boxing Association (USBA) heavyweight title. It also set up a high profile 1997 showdown with George Foreman in Atlantic City, when Savarese lost a 12-round split decision (114-113, 112-115, 110-118) for the vacant World Boxing Union (WBU) championship.

Savarese says his opening-round knockout of former world heavyweight champion James “Buster” Douglas in 1998 for the International Boxing Association World heavyweight title is his greatest accomplishment in the ring.

“I was a big underdog in the Douglas fight,” Savarese remembered. “He had a good jab. That’s No. 1f or me. Winning my first New York Golden Gloves title (1985 when he stopped Jonathan Hill in the finals) in front of my fans, family and friends was my amateur highlight.”

In addition to the aforementioned IBA World, Savarese also won the WBO Inter-Continental, and IBA Continental championships.

Beside former world champions Douglas and Witherspoon, as well as Mathis Jr., Savarese also defeated world-class heavyweights such as David Bostice, Lance Whitaker and Leo Nolan.
“This is special. I know most of the guys going in and it’s an honor to be amongst them. I fought six world champions (Evander Holyfield, Mike Tyson, Foreman, Witherspoon, Douglas, and Riddick Bowe in the amateurs. Max Kellerman (fellow NYSBHOF Class of 2020 inductee) once said I’m from the old-school of boxing. That’s good, I love that.”

Now 54, Savarese lives in Houston, Texas, where he runs Savarese Promotions, as well as two gyms, in which he trains white-collar boxers. “It’s going to be fun seeing family and friends from back since I first started in boxing,” Savarese concluded. “A ton of people are coming (to the induction dinner), including some from Houston. I turned pro there in 1990, moved back to New York between 2000-2008, and have lived in Houston since then.”

But Lou Savarese will always embody what it is to be a New York boxer.

Other living boxers heading into the NYSBHOF include three-time World light heavyweight title challenger Jorge Ahumada (42-8-2, 22 KOs), of Woodside, Queens by way of Argentina; (1975-78) WBC super featherweight World Champion Alfredo “El Salsero” Escalera (53-14-3, 31 KOs), of New York City by way of Puerto Rico; WBC super featherweight World title challenger Freddie “The Pitbull” Liberatore (20-4-1, 11 KOs), of Bayside, Queens; WBC middleweight World Champion and four-time New York Golden Gloves winner Dennis “The Magician” Milton (16-5-1, 5 KOs), of Bronx; and WBA super middleweight title World title challenger Merqui “El Corombo” Sosa (34-9-2, 27 KOs), of Brooklyn by way of the Dominican Republic.

Posthumous participants being inducted are Brooklyn welterweight Soldier Bartfield (51-29-8, 33 KOs), who fought a reported 55 world champions; Bronx middleweight Steve Belloise (95-13-3, 59 KOs); NYSAC and World lightweight champion (1925) Jimmy Goodrich (85-34-21 (12 KOs), of Buffalo; World heavyweight title challenger Tami Mauriello (82-13-1, 60 KOs), of Bronx; WBA light middleweight World champion (1982-83) and four-consecutive New York Golden Gloves titlist Davey “Sensational” Moore (18-5, 14 KOs), of Bronx; and World lightweight champion Freddie “The Welsh Wizard” Welch (74-5-7, 34 KOs), of New York City by way of Wales.

Living non-participants heading into the NYSBHOF are Oneida judge Don Ackerman, Wantah, Long Island journalist/producer Bobby Cassidy, Jr., Buffalo manager Rick Glaser, Rockaway Beach journalist Jack Hirsch, Bronx boxing broadcaster Max Kellerman, Ardsley ringside physician/NY Medical Director Dr. William Lathan, Orangeburg judge Julie Lederman, Hyde Park referee Ron Lipton, and Staten Island/Catskill trainer Kevin Rooney.

Posthumous non-participant inductees are Brooklyn’s Ring Magazine editor Lester Bromberg, New York City sportswriter Dan Daniel, Brooklyn’s Gleason’s Gym founder Bobby Gleason, Sunnyside, Queens boxing writer Flash Gordan, Manhattan journalist A.J. Liebling, Long Island City’s NYSBHOF co-founder Tony Mazzarella and New York City manager Dan Morgan.

Each attending inductee will receive a custom-designed belt signifying his or her induction into the NYSBHOF.

The 2020 inductees were selected by the NYSBHOF nominating committee members: Randy Gordon, Henry Hascup, Don Majeski, Ron McNair, Jim Monteverde and Neil Terens.

All boxers needed to be inactive for at least three years to be eligible for NYSBHOF induction, and all inductees must have resided in New York State for a significant portion of their boxing careers or during the prime of their respective career.

Tickets are priced at $150.00 per adult and $60.00 for children (under 16) and includes a complete brunch and cocktail hour upon entry, starting at 12:30 p.m. ET, as well as a full course dinner (prime rib, fish or poultry) and open bar throughout the day. Tickets are available to purchase by contacting NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy at 516.313.2304 or depcomish@aol.com. Ads for the NYSBHOF program are available: half-page $100.00, full page $200.00 front and back inside covers are $400.00 each, and $500.00 for back cover. Mail checks and ads by the April 6 deadline to Bob Duffy, 1112 Whitewood Landing, Massapequa Park, NY 11762. Checks should be payable to NY Stare Boxing Hall of Fame, call Duffy to charge on a credit card.

NEW YORK STATE BOXING HALL OF FAME

CLASS of 2012: Carmen Basilio, Mike McCallum, Mike Tyson, Jake LaMotta, Riddick Bowe, Carlos Ortiz, Vito Antuofermo, Emile Griffith, “Sugar” Ray Robinson, Gene Tunney, Benny Leonard, Tony Canzoneri, Harold Lederman, Steve Acunto, Jimmy Glenn, Gil Clancy, Ray Arcel, Nat Fleischer, Bill Gallo and Arthur Mercante, Sr.

CLASS of 2013: Jack Dempsey, Johnny Dundee, Sandy Saddler, Maxie Rosenbloom, Joey Archer, Iran Barkley, Mark Breland, Bobby Cassidy, Doug Jones, Junior Jones, James “Buddy” McGirt, Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, Bob Arum, Shelly Finkel, Tony Graziano, Larry Merchant, Teddy Brenner, Mike Jacobs, Tex Rickard and Don Dunphy.

CLASS OF 2014: Floyd Patterson, Tracy Harris Patterson, Billy Backus, Kevin Kelley, Juan LaPorte, Gerry Cooney, Mustafa Hamsho, Howard Davis, Jr., Lou Ambers, Jack Britton, Terry McGovern, Teddy Atlas, Lou DiBella, Steve Farhood, Gene Moore, Angelo Prospero, Whitey Bimstein, Cus D’Amato, William Muldoon and Tom O’Rourke.

CLASS OF 2015: Saoul Mamby, Joey Giamba, Johnny Persol, Harold Weston, Lonnie Bradley, Paul Berlenbach, Billy Graham, Frankie Genaro, Bob Miller, Tommy Ryan, Jimmy Slattery, Bob Duffy, Mike Katz, Tommy Gallagher, Bruce Silverglade, Charley Goldman, Jimmy Johnston, Cedric Kushner, Harry Markson, Damon Runyon and Al Weill.

CLASS OF 2016: Aaron Davis, Charles Murray, Vilomar Fernandez, Edwin Viruet, Hector “Macho” Camacho, Rocky Graziano, Rocky Kansas, Joe Lynch, Joe Miceli, Ed Brophy, Joe DeGuardia, Randy Gordon, Dennis Rappaport, Howie Albert, Freddie Brown, Howard Cosell, Ruby Goldstein and Jimmy Jacobs.

CLASS OF 2017: Gaspar Ortega, Renaldo “Mr.” Snipes, Doug Dewitt, “The Bronx Bomber” Alex Ramos, Dick Tiger, Jose Torres, “Nonpareil” Jack Dempsey, Don Majeski, Ron Katz, Stan Hoffman, Bobby Bartels, Hank Kaplan, Al Gavin, Arthur Donovan and Dan Parker.

CLASS OF 2018: Lou “Honey Boy” Del Valle, Jake Rodriguez, Terrence Alli, “Baby” Joe Mesi, Kid Chocolate, James J. “Gentleman Jim” Corbett, Jack McAuliffe, Billy Costello, Melio Bettina Ralph “Tiger” Jones, Charley Norkus, Dave Anderson, Pete Brodsky, Herb Goldman, Bobby Goodman, Melvina Lathan, Ron Scott Stevens, Johnnie Addie, Johnny Bos, Murray Goodman, Bert Randolph Sugar and Sam Taub.

CLASS OF 2019: Wilfredo Benitez, Dick DiVeronica, Rogelio Tuur, Davey Vasquez, Michael Olajide, Monte Barrett, Jimmy Carter, Al “Bummy” Davis, Marty Servo, Roland LaStarza, Paddy DeMarco, Sid Terris, Leach “The Fighting Dentist” Cross, Don King, John McKaie, Steve Albert, Arthur Mercante, Jr., Bob Jackson, Dewey Fragetta, Johnny LoBianco, Wayne Kelly, Harry Hill, Jimmy Cannon, and Joe Dwyer.

BROOKLYN (March 5, 2020) – Undefeated Polish star and Brooklyn native Adam Kownacki and Robert Helenius went face to face Thursday at the final press conference before they meet in a WBA Heavyweight title eliminator headlining FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes this Saturday, March 7 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

Also squaring off at the press conference were heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba and Razvan Cojanu, who battle in the co-main event, plus rising heavyweight Frank Sanchez and Joey Dawejko, who open the night of heavyweight action at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets are also available for purchase now at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from the Tillary Hotel in Brooklyn:

ADAM KOWNACKI

“I love fighting here in Brooklyn at Barclays Center. It’s almost half my career that I’ve fought in that ring, so it’s definitely my second home.

“Fighting for a shot at the title is truly motivating. I know this is a big fight for Robert as well and he’s trained hard, but my title opportunity is right around the corner. I could have waited, but I decided to take on this big test. I’m going to show off why I’m ready to fight for the title soon.

“It’s truly amazing to see the Polish fans on fight night. I was an Andrew Golota fan and Tomasz Adamek after that. Now I’m trying to be the next motivation for young Polish kids. I want to show them that they can make it. I kept making the right decisions and now I’m right there so close to a title shot. Robert is in my way and I have to beat him to get where I want.

“I love hearing the fans yelling on fight night and that definitely gives me extra energy and motivation to fight in the later rounds.

“I’m looking for a spectacular knockout. I want to show why I’m one of the best heavyweights in the world. I have to take care of business.

“It’s truly amazing to have fans all over the world come to share this night with me. It’s an honor to have this following. It’s breathtaking really. I’d tell them to continue on this journey with toward becoming heavyweight world champion.

“This is a very friendly press conference, there’s a lot of respect between these fighters. I can tell that everyone is ready to put on a great show for the fans on Saturday.”

ROBERT HELENIUS

“I have an opportunity to make a great fight Saturday and that’s what I trained for. I’m ready and I had a great training camp. I can’t wait to get into the ring.

“This fight we came two weeks earlier to the U.S. My body has gotten used to the difference. Plus, the sparring in Alabama at Deontay Wilder’s gym really helped get me ready.

“We’re doing everything right and training has been great. We’ve sparred so many rounds, I feel very sharp and ready to get into the ring against Kownacki.

“I have a lot of fans in Europe and that support is why I can even do this and compete on this level. Everything has been so perfect coming into training camp. It makes me feel more confident than I have in many years.

“I trained for years with a broken hand and have had injuries in the past. But the last two years I’ve been healthy and with the same trainer and I feel physically as good as I ever have.”

EFE AJAGBA

“I’m excited to be on this great show full of heavyweights. I’m looking forward to Saturday night. I thank my opponent for taking this challenge. He’s a good fighter and we’re looking forward to give you a great fight.

“In the Iago Kiladze fight I had him hurt and tried to finish him, but I went too wild and left my guard down. That’s why he landed a shot and knocked me down. I felt okay when I got up and I came back and finished him off.

“It’s up to Cojanu how the fight goes. We’ll find out if he can take my punch or not on Saturday. We’ll see in the ring if he’s got a hard chin.

“Cojanu has a lot of good experience against good fighters. He’s going to try to box me, but if he can’t take my power, then I’ll be able to win the fight by knockout. If he can take it, I will be ready to win a decision.”

RAZVAN COJANU

“Efe is a fighter I respect a lot. He’s a great prospect. But I’m ready for him. I feel very confident in myself. I had a great six-week training camp. Everyone who supported me, I’m going to make them proud on Saturday.

“For this fight I got the chance to work with Henry Tillman and it’s made a huge difference in my game. I know the coach can’t fight for me, but I believe in his plan and his judgement. He knows how I can beat Efe Ajagba and Saturday night you’re going to see me shock the world.

“People think Efe has already won the fight, but I feel good. There’s no pressure on my shoulders. I have nothing to lose. I believe in karma and I believe it’s my time for my moment to come this Saturday.

“I’m very happy to be fighting on FOX for the first time. Best of luck to all of the fighters to come through healthy and give the fans a great performance all night.”

FRANK SANCHEZ

“I’m very excited for this great opportunity to fight on this big PBC card. Saturday is going to be a great fight and you can expect a great performance from me.

“I wish Joey luck on Saturday, but not too much luck. I’m going to demonstrate that I’m one of the best heavyweights in the world.

“He’s not knocking out anybody. With my defense and movement, he’s not going to be able to hurt me. I have everything I need to dominate this fight.

“No one he’s ever fought is like me. He’s going to be shocked when I deliver a tremendous knockout on Saturday night. I’ll see you in the ring on Saturday.”

JOEY DAWEJKO

“I want to thank everyone who helped me get this opportunity. I have an opportunity to be great again. I know a little about Frank Sanchez. I know they’re moving him fast, but I think they took the wrong fight. They should have waited a couple more fights for me and I’m going to prove it.

“I am in great shape and I had a great camp with my trainer Justin Fortune. I can’t wait to get in there and give everyone a great fight.

“Experience will play a big part in this fight. I had a great amateur career and I’ve fought all around the world. I’ve sparred with every champion right now and it’s all going to help.

“Frank is a good fighter, but he’s not ready for me. He’s going to try to box me, but I’m going to be too much. I’m predicting a knockout. He’s going to be in for a big shock. He doesn’t have anything I haven’t already seen before.”

KEITH SHELDON, EVP of Programming & Development for BSE Global

“As we all know, BROOKLYN BOXING is at its best when he we have heavyweights in the ring and this card has no shortage of them.

“Adam, you built your career at Barclays Center and we’re thrilled to see you headline for the second time. With nine wins there, it’s safe to say Barclays Center is your second home. We’re excited for you to put on a show for your hometown fans.

“Barclays Center continues to show to the world our steadfast commitment to the sport. This is our second PBC fight this year and the third in the last four months. This further demonstrates our commitment to our boxing program and the sport in general.

“Our partnership with PBC consistently brings great fights to our market and Saturday night is no exception. I’d also like to thank FOX. At Barclays Center we pride ourselves on being in the big event business, and there’s nothing bigger than a primetime heavyweight fight on FOX.”

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ABOUT KOWNACKI VS. HELENIUS
Kownacki vs. Helenius will see undefeated Polish star and Brooklyn native Adam Kownacki look to thrill his hometown crowd when he takes on Robert Heleniusin a 12-round WBA Heavyweight Title eliminator in the main event of FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, March 7 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

FOX PBC Fight Night begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features undefeated heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba facing former title challenger Razvan Cojanu in the 10-round co-main event and rising heavyweight Frank Sánchez stepping in to face Philadelphia’s Joey Dawejko in the 10-round televised opener.

Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

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

QUEBEC CITY, Canada (March 5, 2020) — Janibek Alimkhanuly will bring his brand of “Qazaq Style” north of the border. Alimkhanuly, the latest middleweight sensation from Kazakhstan, will defend his WBO Global and WBC Continental Americas belts in a 10-rounder against fellow unbeaten Issah Samir on Saturday, March 28 at Videotron Centre in Quebec City, Canada.

Alimkhanuly-Samir will open the ESPN-televised doubleheader (10 p.m. ET) featuring WBC/IBF light heavyweight world champion Artur Beterbiev’s title defense against mandatory challenger Meng Fanlong.

The undercard (ESPN+, 7 p.m. ET) will see the return of heavyweight contender Oscar “Kaboom” Rivas in a 10-rounder against 2004 U.S. Olympian Devin Vargas. Rivas, from Colombia, has made Montreal his home since turning pro in 2009.

“What an undercard we have in Quebec City, as Janibek is truly one of the special young talents in the entire sport,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Oscar Rivas is a dangerous freight train of a heavyweight, and he is in the mix to fight for a world title in 2020. It is going to be an action-packed evening.”

Alimkhanuly (8-0, 4 KOs), who is trained by Buddy McGirt and managed by three-time BWAA Manager of the Year Egis Klimas, represented Kazakhstan at the 2016 Rio Olympics and captured gold at both the 2013 Asian and World Championships. Ranked No. 4 by the WBO, Alimkhanuly took the express lane to contention, besting veteran spoiler Vaughn Alexander in only his fourth pro fight. He went 4-0 with three knockouts in 2019, including a sixth-round knockout over former Canadian and NABO middleweight champion Albert Onolunose last November in Fresno, Calif.

“I only want the toughest competition. That’s why I am a contender after eight pro fights,” Alimkhanuly said. “This is a great opportunity to showcase my skills live on ESPN. I will leave Canada with the ‘0’ on my record. I want to thank Samir for taking the fight, but he won’t be able to solve the ‘Qazaq Style’ puzzle.”

Samir (18-0, 15 KOs) is the latest world-class pugilist from Accra, Ghana, a proud fighting city that has produced world champions Azumah Nelson, Ike Quartey, David Kotey, Joshua Clottey and Richard Commey, among many others. He represented Ghana at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and turned pro in 2011, knocking out eight opponents in his first year in the paid ranks. Samir won the Ghanaian middleweight title over veteran Philip Kotey in 2015 and, following a nearly three-year layoff, he returned to action in June 2018. He is 4-0 with three knockouts since then and will be making his first professional appearance away from his homeland.

“I am coming to Canada to steal the show,” Samir said. “Every time I enter the ring, I fight for Ghana and our great champions who paved the way. Janibek is skilled fighter, but I know he has not fought anyone like me.”

Rivas (26-1, 18 KOs), who recently signed a co-promotional deal with Top Rank, had an action-packed 2019. He knocked out former world title challenger Bryant Jennings in January and knocked down — and nearly knocked out — Dillian Whyte in July before dropping a unanimous decision for the WBC interim heavyweight world title. Ranked No. 3 by the WBC, Rivas is still in the thick of the heavyweight mix despite the Whyte loss. Vargas (22-6, 9 KOs) revitalized his career in January with an upset victory over 2004 Puerto Rican Olympian Victor Bisbal. Last August, he knocked out then-unbeaten Irish prospect Niall Kennedy in five rounds.

“The past year, I have proven I am one of the world’s elite heavyweights,” Rivas said. “This year, my goal is to prove that I deserve my chance to take on the best heavyweight boxer in the world, Tyson Fury, who is also under contract with Top Rank. On March 28, I will smash my opponent with a spectacular ‘Kaboom.’”

In other undercard action on ESPN+:

Wilfried Seyi (8-0, 4 KOs), a native of Cameroon who calls Montreal home, will fight Alan Carrillo (11-4, 8 KOs) in an eight-rounder at super middleweight. Sey represented Cameroon at the 2016 Rio Olympics, and he recently qualified for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

In an eight-round super bantamweight battle, Ismael Camacho Garcia (12-2-3, 5 KOs) will face Montreal-based veteran Vislan Dalkhaev (12-1, 3 KOs), who has won three in a row.

Heavyweight prospect Guido “The Gladiator” Vianello (6-0, 6 KOs), a 2016 Italian Olympian, will face an opponent to be named in an eight-rounder.

Montreal-based super middleweight KO artist Christian “Solide” Mbilli (16-0, 15 KOs) will face Mexican veteran Felipe “El Pinocho” Ugalde (18-1, 15 KOs) in a 10-rounder.
Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Groupe Yvon Michel, Roc Nation Sports and Gestev, tickets priced ($CA) at $542, $330, $275, $137, $104, $75 and $55 (including fees and taxes) are on sale now and are available via www.ticketmaster.ca and in person at the Videotron Centre box office.

For more information, visit www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook:facebook.com/trboxing, Facebook.com/groupeyvonmichel; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing, twitter.com/yvonmichelGYMl; twitter.com/ESPNRingside; IG: https://www.instagram.com/espnringside/.

Use the hashtag #BeterbievMeng to join the conversation on social media.

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.

Atlantic City, NJ (March 5, 2020)–This Saturday night, super middleweight contender Derrick Webster (28-2, 14 KOs) views Gabriel Pham (11-2, 5 KOs) a mere steppingstone as they meet in an eight-round bout that will serve as the main event at Ballys Atlantic City Hotel and Casino.

The card is promoted by Hard Hitting Promotions.

Webster of Glassboro, New Jersey is supremely confident as he enters will is being billed as a South Jersey Super Middleweight Showdown.

“My camp was amazing. I was scheduled to fight in October, but my opponent came in way over weight. I took about two days off, and was right back in the gym. I then got a call to fight Demond Nicholson, but then we were offered this fight.”

There is some familiarity with Pham as Webster defeated Pham in Webster’s last amateur bout and the two have sparred.

“When I sparred with him, I was told by trainers to take it easy and hold back on my punches. So that’s all you have to know.”

“He does not have a chance of beating me. I have nothing to worry about in this bout. This fight is more for him then it its for me. He does not impose a threat. There is no one on his resume with my ability and in his last bout he was knocked out by Ievgen Khytrov from a body shot.”

Despite Pham being from Atlantic City, Webster feels that he is the hometown fighter as this will be his 6th bout on the boardwalk.

“Atlantic City is my town. I have been headlining here since very early in my career. They love me in Atlantic City. The only reason that he is in a main event is because of me. The only reason that he is on any billboards is because of me. He has to be on top of his game to be competitive with me. I am looking down the road at world title bouts, where he has never been ranked. The bottom line is that I will not be happy with my performance if I don’t knock him out.”

In six-round Bouts:

Anthony Young (21-2, 8 KOs) of Atlantic City battles Jorge Martin Garcia (13-7-1, 3 KOs) of Buenos Aries, Argentina in a six-round welterwieght bout.

Jeremy Cuevas (12-1, 9 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Nestor Hugo Paniagua (26-9-2, 17 KOs) of Santa Fe, Argentina in an lightweight bout.

Christian Tapia (10-0, 9 KOs) of Coamo, Puerto Rico fights Carlos Colon (5-2, 2 KOs) of Hatillo, Puerto Rico in a super featherweight contest.

Thomas Velasquez (9-0-1, 5 KOs) of Philadelphia squares off with Gustavo Molina (24-21, 9 KOs) of Tlaxcala, Mexico in a lightweight fight.

Isiah Seldon (13-3-1, 4 KOs) of Atlantic City fights Darryl Bunting (4-6-2, 2 KOs) of Asbury Park, NJ in a six-round super middleweight fight.

In four-round bouts:

Benny Sinakin (5-0, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Leroy Jones (3-7, 2 KOs) of Saint Louis in a light heavyweight contest.

THE WEIGH IN WILL TAKE PLACE ON FRIDAY AT THE BOOK AT BALLYS AT 3 PM ET

Tickets are on sale now for $100 for VIP, $65 for Ringside and $50 for VIP and can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com and at The Caesars Box Office.

MINNEAPOLIS (March 5, 2020) – Top welterweight and Minneapolis native Jamal “Shango” James will face former title challenger Thomas Dulorme for the Interim WBA Welterweight Title in the FOX PBC Fight Night main event and on FOX Deportes Saturday, April 11 as James returns to The Armory in Minneapolis for his fifth-straight fight.

FOX PBC Fight Night begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features Minneapolis-based Cuban sensation David Morrell Jr. stepping up in his third pro fight to face unbeaten Lennox Allen in an Interim WBA Super Middleweight Title match as the co-main event. Super welterweight sensation Joey “Small Town Solider” Spencer will open the televised broadcast in a special attraction.

“We can’t wait to be back at The Armory in Minneapolis to see the city’s homegrown star Jamal James in another exciting fight in front of his hometown fans,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “He’ll look to further prove his status as an elite welterweight against the very dangerous Thomas Dulorme and capture an interim title in the main event. Cuban phenom David Morrell Jr., now based in Minneapolis, will make this an even more high-stakes night for the city’s boxing scene, as he fights for an interim title in just his third pro fight against tough unbeaten Lennox Allen. Combined with sensational prospect Joey Spencer continuing his rise in the televised opener, April 11 is shaping up to be a jam packed night of action.”

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Warriors Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased at the Armory at http://ArmoryMN.com/ and through Ticketmaster.

James (26-1, 12 KOs) has become a local favorite, packing The Armory and most recently thrilled his hometown crowd in July with an exciting decision victory over former champion Antonio DeMarco in an FS1 main event. The 31-year-old has rolled off six consecutive victories since suffering his only defeat in a unanimous decision loss to Yordenis Ugás in 2016. James has compiled three knockouts in his current win streak while defeating the likes of Diego Gabriel Chaves, Abel Ramos and Jo Jo Dan.

“I’m extremely excited and honored to have my fifth fight back at home at The Armory,” said James. “We’ve created an empire with Minnesota boxing and being able to have these big fights at home is a huge blessing. Being the main event fighting top competitors at home and on FOX, it’s going to show Minnesota boxing to the nation. I’m extremely motivated and focused for this fight. I’m always training to my fullest, but we’re going extra hard for this fight.”

The 30-year-old Dulorme (25-3-1, 16 KOs) most recently defeated then unbeaten Terrel Williams in September, winning a unanimous decision after his previous contest had seen him fight to majority draw against two-division champion Jessie Vargas in 2018. Born in Marigot, Guadeloupe but fighting out of and representing Carolina, Puerto Rico, Dulorme rebounded from a loss to Terence Crawford for a 140-pound title by scoring back-to-back knockouts, leading up to a narrow decision loss to top welterweight Yordenis Ugás in 2017 on FOX.

“I am very excited to get a chance to fight for a title again,” said Dulorme. “I had a chance before, but this time I won’t let the opportunity slip away. James is a good fighter and I’m sure he will be motivated fighting in his hometown. I respect him, but I feel like I am in the prime of my career and it will show when I step in the ring.”

Morrell (2-0, 2 KOs) arrived in the U.S. last year and immediately began to show the same prodigious talents that made him a standout in Cuba’s iconic amateur scene. Now fighting out of Minneapolis, Morrell made his pro debut at The Armory in August, with a TKO victory in the first round. The 22-year-old followed that up in November on FS1, knocking out an opponent in Quinton Rankin who entered the fight with a 15-6-2 record and had most recently gone the distance with former champion Chad Dawson five months before facing Morrell.

“I’m very thankful to my team and excited for this great opportunity,” said Morrell. “I feel strong in training camp and I’m not underestimating Allen at all. I’m focused on getting one step closer to winning a world title for my family and fans in Cuba. I can’t wait to perform in front of my new family and friends in Minnesota and give them a great show on April 11.”

Born in Guyana, Allen (22-0-1, 14 KOs) turned pro in 2004 and has fought out of New York since 2010. He’s won 10 consecutive fights since a 2010 draw against Darnell Boone, including a 12-round decision victory over Kwesi Jones, a knockout of then once-beaten Kojo Issah and most recently a 10-round decision victory over Derrick Webster in February 2019. April 11 will make Allen’s second-straight fight in Minnesota, as his triumph over Webster took place in Hinckley.

“Training camp is going great right now and I’m really excited for this fight on April 11,” said Allen. “I know that Morrell sees me as a step in his career, but that’s exactly how I see him as well. I’ve worked hard to get one step away from the top and I’m planning on taking that step in this fight. We both have good technical skills, but I think I’m going to have to be the one to press the fight and take it to him. I’m thankful to have this opportunity to fight on FOX and after my performance I’m looking forward to fighting on this stage a lot more.”

The 19-year-old Spencer (10-0, 7 KOs) has made fast strides since turning pro in February 2018, including four victories on his 2019 campaign. Representing his hometown of Linden, Michigan, Spencer kicked off 2020 by scoring a unanimous decision against Erik Spring on January 18 on FS1. He also stopped Travis Gambardella on FS1 in September after defeating Akeem Black on FOX in June.

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Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

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

Jono Carroll has predicted an eighth round stoppage win against Scott Quigg when the rivals collide in a crunch Super-Featherweight clash at Manchester Arena on Saturday March 7, live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US.

Carroll (17-1-1, 3 KOs) warned former WBA Super-Bantamweight World Champion Quigg of his ability to “break people down” and “break people’s hearts” and the Dublin man believes a win this weekend will put him back in line for a World Title shot later this year.

“Scott thinks I have feather fists? We’ll see,” said Carroll. “These feather fists will do a lot of damage. He’s a strong opponent and Oscar Valdez, who can bang, couldn’t get him out of there. I don’t hit that hard but I can break people down, I can break people’s hearts.

“Quigg is a massive name and a former champion but he has to pass that torch to me now. It’s my turn. He’s had his day. He’s a good, seasoned pro fighter and I can’t overlook that. I’m prepared for the world champion, the best him, but I feel like it’s my time now.

“I’ve been training my brain, training different attributes to normal. Quigg is such a big name that it’s not hard to get up at 6am for a jog or to push yourself to exhaustion. It’s my time. Pass me that torch, Scott! For some reason I’m thinking round eight.”

Quigg vs. Carroll tops a big night of action in Manchester, the No.1 and No.2 WBO Super-Middleweight contenders Zach Parker (18-0, 12 KOs) and Rohan Murdock (24-1, 7 KOs) collide, Anthony Fowler (11-1, 8 KOs) fights for the first time under Shane McGuigan, Manchester Heavyweight contender Hughie Fury (23-3, 13 KOs meets Pavel Sour (11-2, 6 KOs), Liverpool Super-Lightweight contender Robbie Davies Jr (19-2, 13 KOs) fights for the first time under new trainer Dominic Ingle, Bolton’s Jack Cullen (17-2, 8 KOs) returns after his FOTY contender with Felix Cash, Sheffield Super-Lightweight ace Dalton Smith (4-0, 3 KOs) keeps busy, ‘The Albanian Bear’ Reshat Mati (6-0, 4 KO’s) makes his UK debut in a Welterweight contest, Ricky Hatton-trained Super-Featherweight Ibrahim Nadim (1-0) looks to impress and there’s action for Oldham Lightweight Aqib Fiaz (4-0), Liverpool Super-Flyweight Blane Hyland (2-0) and Stretford Middleweight Bradley Rea (8-0, 3 KOs).
Tickets priced £40, £60, £100 and £200 (VIP) are available to purchase via Manchester Arena (www.manchester-arena.com), StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk) and Matchroom Boxing (www.matchroomboxing.com).

Philadelphia, PA (March 5 2020) – USBA Junior Welterweight champion Samuel Teah is not taking his opponent, Diemurci Nzau lightly for their scheduled six-round non-title main event the fight this Saturday night at The 2300 Arena in
Philadelphia.

The fight will headline the inaugural card promoted by RDR Promotions.

Teah of Philadelphia, who has a record of 16-3-1 with seven knockouts is coming off a 10-round majority decision over Sonny Fredrickson to win the crown in November knows that a win on Saturday night will lead him to a possible big opportunity.

“I had a very good training camp. Early on, it took a while to get going after the win over Fredrickson, but then I looked at some film on Nzau, and I saw that he is a tough guy, so we picked it up for the rest of camp,” said Teah

“Nzau is tough and durable, and I am not underestimating him as an opponent.”

Teah has won two of his last three against more heralded fighters such as Fredrickson and Kenneth Sims, but Teah knows he can’t slip up against Nzau.

“Fredrickson and Sims were better names, but I know what it takes to win as an underdog, so I am sure Nzau will be looking to do that to me. I need to win this fight as I know that bigger fights are very close to me.”

Because of the recent success, Teah, who works for the city transit system SEPTA, expects a lot of support as he enters the 2300 Arena ring.

“I am very excited about the turnout that expect there to be for me. Everyone at my job will be there in addition to my normal fanbase who to support me for all of my fights.”

In six-round bouts, Brandon Robinson (14-2, 9 KOs) of Upper Darby, PA fights Josue Obando (19-26-2, 14 KOs) of Guadalajara, Mexico in a super middleweight bout.

RDR Promotions signee, Nahir Albright (7-1, 2 KOs) of Sicklerville, NJ fights Andrew Rodgers (4-8-2, 2 KOs) of Elkhart, IN in a junior welterweight fight.

In four-round bouts:

Nafear Charles (2-0, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Joseph Santana (0-2) of Providence, RI in a super lightweight contest.

Laquan Evans (3-1, 1 KO) of Philadelphia battles debuting Anthony Young in a bout that will feature debuting Philadelphia based middleweights.

Ryan Umberger (3-0, 3 KOs) of Bensalem, PA boxes Estevan Payan (1-8-1, 1 KO) of Glendale, Arizona in a middleweight fight.

Naheem Parker of Camden, New Jersey will make his pro debut against Anthony Carter (0-1) of Philadelphia in a lightweight bout.

Victor Medina (1-0, 1 KO) of Hartford, Ct will take on Michael Stoute (3-2) of Long Island, NY in a super bantamweight fight.

Rashiem Jefferson of Philadelphia will make his pro debut against Nathan Benchou (2-0, 2 KOs) of Mexico in a lightweight contest.

THE WEIGH IN WILL TAKE PLACE ON FRIDAY, MARCH 6TH AT THE HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS (100 NORTH COLUMBUS BLVD) AT 5 PM ET

Tickets are $125 VIP with a drink; $75 Ringside and $55 General Admission and can be purchased at 2300arena.com