NEW YORK – December 19, 2019 – Three talented, undefeated prospects will put their unblemished records on the line in the 250^th edition of ShoBox: The New Generation, the prospect-oriented series that has featured 81 future world champions, Friday, January 17 live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT) from WinnaVegas Casino Resort in Sloan, Iowa.

In the 10-round main event, Vladimir Shishkin (9-0, 6 KOs), the fast-rising super middleweight prospect currently ranked as the WBC No. 12 contender, will return for his second consecutive test on ShoBox against the unbeaten Ulises Sierra (15-0-2, 9 KOs).

Shohjahon Ergashev (17-0, 15 KOs), ranked No. 6 by both the WBA and IBF at 140 pounds, will face Adrian Estrella (29-4, 24 KOs) in the 10-round super lightweight co-featured bout of the first ShoBox telecast of 2020. In the opener, Detroit native Ja’Rico O’Quinn (13-0-1, 8 KOs) faces Nevada’s Oscar Vasquez (15-2-1, 3 KOs) in an eight-round super flyweight contest.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions, start at $20 and are on sale now at www.WinnaVegas.com.

“Vladimir Shishkin was a stellar amateur with over 300 bouts. We believe he is destined to become a world champion,” said Gordon Hall, who has been the Executive Producer and steward of ShoBox: The New Generation for all 19 years and 250 editions of the cornerstone boxing series. “Shohjahon Ergashev was on prospects to watch lists in 2018 and has lived up to lofty expectations. His aggressive style and punching power make him a fighter who boxing fans want to see. 2020 will be a big year for both fighters. This series was built on giving young, talented fighters national television exposure and we are excited to get a first look at Ja’Rico O’Quinn, a U.S. amateur standout who is an all-action fighter with high expectations.”

“On January 17, boxing fans are going to see some of the best prospects in boxing from big to small,” said promoter Dmitriy Salita. “The card features young, hungry fighters in the super flyweight, junior middleweight and super middleweight divisions. Vladimir Shishkin, Shohjahon Ergashev and Ja’Rico O’Quinn are all undefeated, world-rated fighters on their way to national recognition and world titles. First, they have to pass the biggest tests of their careers.”

The 28-year-old Shishkin shined in his United States and ShoBox: The New Generation debut in August, registering an eighth-round technical knockout against then once-beaten DeAndre Ware. Standing at 6-foot-1, Shishkin was a standout amateur in Russia where he compiled 301 wins in 330 fights before turning professional in 2016. He has won his last four contests – all scheduled 10 or 12 round fights – via knockout, including a 10^th round TKO of former world title challenger Nadjib Mohammedi prior to his American debut in October 2018. Currently training in Detroit under Javan “Sugar” Hill, Steward at the new Kronk Gym, Shishkin is looking to continue his ascent up the rankings in the super middleweight division with a second consecutive statement win on ShoBox.

“Training with Sugar Hill at Kronk Gym is going really well, and I can guarantee that I will be ready and I will put my newly learned skills to use,” Shishkin said. “I hope for another emphatic victory that impresses the American boxing fans. I’m looking forward to putting on a great fight and letting the champions at 168 know that this is my year.”

The 30-year-old Sierra, from San Diego, Calif., is riding an eight-bout winning streak including a unanimous 10-round decision over Fidel Hernandez for the vacant WBC Silver Super Middleweight Championship in April. The son of former San Diego Padres pitcher Ulises “Candy” Sierra, he has sparred with future Hall of Famers Andre Ward and Canelo Alvarez and former world champion Peter Quillin. Prior to Sierra’s career-best win in April, he won four straight contests in Mexico, including three by knockout.

“I’m happy for the opportunity to face a good opponent and I’ll use him as a steppingstone to get where I want to get,” said Sierra. “I still have a month of preparation to get into the best shape of my life. I know Shishkin is undefeated and has a Russian amateur pedigree. It’ll be the hardest fight of my career, but I will do anything and everything to come out victorious.”

Hard-hitting super lightweight Shohjahon Ergashev (17-0, 15 KOs), of Uzbekistan, is ranked in the top-15 in three of the four major sanctioning bodies. The 28-year-old is coming off an impressive fourth-round knockout of veteran Abdiel Ramirez this past August on ShoBox. In his previous appearances on the prospect developmental series, the former member of the Uzbek national team scored a third-round knockout against then top-10 rated Sonny Fredrickson, and a 10-round unanimous decision over previously unbeaten Mykal Fox. The powerful southpaw currently trains alongside stablemate Shishkin in Detroit.

“I am adding new dimensions to my game and plan on making a big statement in the first ShoBox of the year,” said Ergashev. “2020 is going to be my year and I am going to set the tone in my fight with Estrella.”

Estrella, who hails from Monterrey, Mexico, turned professional in 2010 and won 22 consecutive fights before he suffered his first setback in 2015. With just seven of his 33 pro fights going the full distance, Estrella is an all-action fighter typical of his Mexican roots. He earned a career-best win, a closely-contested split decision over Oscar Duarte, in his U.S. debut in February. Estrella will face his fourth undefeated prospect in his last five fights as he looks to get his career back on track with a win over the highly-regarded Ergashev.

“This is an opportunity I’m going to take full advantage of,” said Estrella. “I’ve been in camp for the last two months, so I’ll be in perfect shape to go in there and do my thing. I know Ergashev is a southpaw and a hard puncher with a big KO record, but I’ve been in this situation before. I have too much experience for him. Knowing that if I win this fight I could get a world title shot is all the motivation I need.”

The 24-year-old O’Quinn is rated No. 10 in the world by the WBO. Ranked as the No.1 amateur bantamweight in the country compiling a record of 130-18 before turning professional in 2015, O’Quinn boasts blazing-fast hands and an ability to throw effortless combinations. A fan favorite in his hometown of Detroit, he was last seen winning a unanimous decision over James Smith of Flint, Mich., in October.

“The time has finally come,” said O’Quinn. “It’s my time to show the world who the king is on live TV. For those that don’t know, January 17, I’m going to show the world greatness in is purest form. They are going to see charisma, skills and explosiveness. I know I’m fighting a tough competitor. He’s not coming to lay down. I’m coming prepared for war. It’s going to be a great night for boxing in the super flyweight division. I’m putting all the champions on notice.”

Vasquez, from Reno, Nev., is a former streaking prospect in the super flyweight division. After losing his third professional fight, the 5-foot Vasquez rattled off thirteen consecutive wins between 2012 and 2017 and was well on his way to making a name for himself in the division before a unanimous decision loss to once-beaten Ricardo Sandoval in May 2018 halted his momentum. After a year-and-a-half layoff, Vasquez returned by fighting Gilberto Mendoza to a majority draw in October. At 32 years old, the hungry Vasquez finds himself in a do-or-die fight against O’Quinn.

“Training in Reno is going amazing,” said Vasquez. “It’s such a tremendous opportunity for my life. I’m trying to get to a high ranking and it’s a dream come true. I know O’Quinn is undefeated. He’s a boxer who likes to grab a lot. He doesn’t like pressure. I’m hoping I will tire him out. I think he’ll eventually give in as the fight goes on if I put on a lot of pressure. In the later rounds, he won’t even want to come out of his corner.”

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

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

About ShoBox: The New Generation

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

Leonard Ellerbe
Thank you. I’d like to thank everyone for joining the call for two-time super featherweight champion, Gervonta Davis and former unified champion Yuriorkis Gamboa as they prepare to battle for the WBA Lightweight World Championship.

In our co-feature, we’ll have WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Jean Pascal taking on two division champion Badou Jack. Plus, a very, very exciting opening bout we’ll have former 168-pound champion Jose Uzcategui taking on Mayweather Promotions’ own Lionell Thompson in a ten-round bout.

We’re very excited to bring you this exciting card on December 28, live from the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta. Our event will be broadcasted live on SHOWTIME at 9:00 pm ET/6:00 pm PT

We’re very excited to bring boxing’s biggest rising star, Gervonta Davis, to Atlanta on December 28, which will no doubt close out 2019 in a major way. Mayweather Promotions will be hosting our first ever event down in ATL as part of a great holiday special on SHOWTIME.

Again, Mayweather promotion’s own Gervonta Davis takes on Yuriorkis Gamboa in a very exciting bout. This will be a night that will be filled with exciting music as well as we’re bringing both cultures together in an epic event in Atlanta at State Farm Arena.

This will add another notch in sport’s history book as it will be the first world championship boxing event in Atlanta since Evander Holyfield took on Vaughn Bean in September of 1998. We have no other than to thank Stephen Espinoza for allowing us to bring this great event to this great city of Atlanta.

        So, without further ado, I would like to welcome SHOWTIME Network's President of Sports and Event Programming, Stephen Espinoza.

Stephen Espinoza
Thanks, Leonard. We’re thrilled to be back in business on another exciting event with Mayweather Promotions, this time in Atlanta. For SHOWTIME, this kicks off another great run to start the new year a little bit early.

We’ve got eight shows in 10 weeks, featuring some of boxing’s biggest names: Gervonta Davis, of course, Danny Garcia, Jarrett Hurt, Claressa Shields, plus some of the top prospects and rising stars, Jaron Ennis and Stephen Fulton Jr. That’s across SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION; ShoBox, and of course our streaming program SHOWTIME BOXING COUNTDOWN.

Now, Atlanta has a long history in boxing. Some of the biggest names in the sport have fought there. Evander Holyfield, Roy Jones Jr., Pernell Whitaker, Lennox Lewis, Jack Dempsey all have fought in Atlanta. None of the other champions who have fought there have done so recently.

This will be the first world championship boxing event in Atlanta in more than 20 years. The last time there was a world title fight in Atlanta was in fact a SHOWTIME event, September of 1998, Evander Holyfield versus Vaughn Bean.

This is a long-awaited return of championship boxing to a long-underserved boxing market, and I can’t think of a better fight to do that than this one. We all know Yuriorkis Gamboa. He is a gold medalist, a former titleholder at 126 and 130 pounds, and in fact was a Unified featherweight champion from 2009 to 2011.

He’s won four fights in a row. He is a full-fledged lightweight. He is now weighing over 130 for the 10th time consecutively. His last 10 most recent fights he’s been over 130, and over one-third of his career has been at 130 or higher.

Gervonta Davis is going up to meet this challenge. That’ll leave the first time in the last six fights that Gervonta has been over 130, and only nine of his 22 career fights have been above 130, so it will be interesting to see him settle into the new weight.

Gervonta, as Leonard accurately described, is one of the rising stars in the sport. He’s fighting for the third time this year, which is considered very active for a world champion. And I don’t think it’s an exaggeration to say that Gervonta is one of the top young stars in the sport.

He is numerically one of the top three draws in all of boxing for 2013. We expect a sellout or something very close on December 28, which will mean that over three different cities on three different dates and three fights this year, Gervonta will have sold well over 30,000 tickets, including over 8,000 in Carson, California, against a last-minute opponent.

At Royal Farms in Baltimore, a sellout crowd of nearly 15,000, and State Farm Arena in Atlanta, ticket sales are going very, very well. So with well over 30,000 seats sold among three fights in 2019, that puts Gervonta at the top of the list, along with Errol Spence and Anthony Joshua in terms of the boxers who have sold the most tickets across events in 2019.

So when we described Gervonta as one of the young stars in boxing, this is not just hyperbole. It’s not salesmanship, it is actually a fact, and it is very important, what he’s doing here. There’s no young fighter doing what Gervonta is doing right now.

There’s no other fighter in boxing doing what he’s doing. With Atlanta, we expected Gervonta will have launched his second long-underserved market, having gone to Carson earlier in the year.

He relaunched the Baltimore market. We’re using him to relaunch the Atlanta market, and it says a lot about his drawing power that we are launching two new markets in 2019, on the back of Gervonta Davis.

It’s great for ‘Tank,’ it’s great for this event. It’s great for Atlanta, but most importantly it’s great for the sport of boxing. I expect a great fight, I expect the best out of Yuriorkis Gamboa, and an exciting night on December 28.

L. Ellerbe
Thank you, Stephen. And as Stephen mentioned, Gervonta Davis, he’ll be in the main event. He’ll be taking on Yuriorkis Gamboa. Gamboa is a former Unified featherweight champion and a former lightweight champion, and he still brings a lot of experience, a Cuban old school fighter, coming from the great Cuban tradition.

So without further ado, he’s a powerful fighter with lots of experience. He hails from Cuba. He’s a former Olympian. He’s invested in all the right tools to bring out the best in Gervonta Davis on December the 28th, so I’d like to welcome Yuriorkis Gamboa on the call.

Yuriorkis Gamboa
I’m very happy to be on this conference call. I’m also very appreciative of the opportunity given to me. A little odd that I’m saying that, given that I’m the veteran coming into this fight, but I think everything’s lined up for me to have a big night on the 28th.

Q
This question is actually for Leonard and Stephen. You guys have been around a long time. Gervonta Davis, he refers to himself as the one, and he’s incredibly popular both in the ring and out of the ring, on social media.

What do you attribute his magnetic appeal with younger fans, especially from knowing him both in and out the ring? What do you attribute that magnetic appeal that’s growing with every fight?

S. Espinoza
Well, I’ll actually refer back to the early stages of Gamboa’s career as well, because I think you can draw a lot of parallels in their styles. What people love about Gamboa when he burst on the scene is the same thing as people love about “Tank” Davis, and that is their ferocious style inside the ring; the knockout power, the flashiness, the showmanship.

That’s what brings the boxing fans in, that’s what generated the enthusiasm and the name for Gamboa, and that’s what’s generating the enthusiasm for Gervonta Davis. In terms of outside the ring, Gervonta has just struck a chord with both boxing fans and non-boxing fans.

I think his story has resonated, his personality, and the struggle that he’s come from. And again, I will draw the parallel with Gamboa as well. What these two young men have overcome in their careers is the stuff of movies, and I speak not so much in their careers but in their lives, the obstacles that they’ve overcome, their journeys that they’ve been on.

You know, very different journeys. You know, one from Cuba, one from inner city Baltimore. But long and tough and difficult journeys to get to where they are now, in which they fought for it at every stage of the way, both in and out of the ring.

So I think the combination of that in and out of the ring is really what has built “Tank” to what he is, and I think, by drawing the parallel, it’s very similar to what established Gamboa as a star as well.

L. Ellerbe
Pretty much just to touch on what Stephen just said is that, when it comes to “Tank”, especially in the urban markets, which is carried over into other markets now, is that he represents what the fans like, this generation of fans want to see.

They want to see knockouts, and that’s what “Tank” believes in, and when he comes to the ring, his sole mentality is, “I’m not going to play with you. If you don’t belong in there with me.” With him, he’s going to run you out of that ring.

And the fans have gravitated to that style, and it’s a very entertaining style that they know, and it’s very reminiscent of the Mike Tyson era. And I’m not comparing the two fighters, but I’m just talking about what they both brought to the table.

That, when you came into the arena and you were coming to see a Mike Tyson or Gervonta Davis, you couldn’t get up out of your seat to go to the restroom or go get some popcorn and a drink, because the fight might be over.

And that’s what he brings to the table and he’s been able to cross over in markets now, where there’s other entertainers all over the world, just not African-Americans, all kinds of entertainers, actresses and actors. All have gravitated, and he’s the next guy up.

He has the it factor. It’s different, from a boxing standpoint, because we don’t see many stars in our sport that bring that to the table, and that’s what makes him very, very exciting and makes him the most exciting young star in the entire sport.

Q
Thanks very much. Stephen, just as another quick follow-up to what you were saying earlier, can you just talk about the star power of “Tank” Davis to have this fight and so close, in the midst of the holiday, with people traveling and there’s still so much interest generated with this fight, to hold this fight. What does it say about his star power?

S. Espinoza
Yes, going into a market that has been dormant for a long time is a challenge for a promoter, it’s a challenge for a fighter, and that’s why, quite honestly, you see this sport going back to the same cities because the safe and reliable thing is to go to where you know.

It is risky to launch or re-launch a market that has been quiet. You know, “Tank” very strongly believed that he could support an event and people would come out in Baltimore, and he was 150 percent correct. They came out far beyond what anyone expected, and a sell out in a great performance.

And on the shoulders of that, as a team, we and Mayweather Promotions had been looking for the right event to launch Atlanta again and bring that back to prominence, and you know, to say that, this young fighter is the one who’s going to reignite the market, that’s putting a lot of responsibility on your shoulders.

But I think, between his personality, his performance, and you know, the charisma and electricity that goes along with his events, this is proven already, when you look at the live gate, to be a wise decision to turn to Davis and Gamboa to re-launch and reignite that Atlanta market.

Q
Is this one of the best training camps of your career, and also what the death of his former trainer Jorge Hernandez means to him?

Y. Gamboa
Everyone knows what Mr. Hernandez meant to me. He was not only my trainer in Cuba, but he was like a second father figure to me, and his memory will always live with me. At the same time, I’m going to dedicate this fight to his memory and to his legacy.

My training has been excellent with the same trainer I’ve had who trained me for my last few bouts. We’ve done a great deal with increasing my workload, to increase the capacity of my workload on fight night.

Also learning a lot of new techniques and a lot of game planning has gone into this camp. I’ve learned to be a lot more cerebral because at the end of the day, the cerebral part of the fight is what’s going to take me to victory on the night of December 28.

Q
Do you feel like there is more motivation in this training camp compared to maybe some of your past fights, because it’s been so long since you fought for a title and just the overall magnitude of this fight?

Y. Gamboa
Definitely, both play a huge factor into what went into this training camp. We all know the significance of fighting for a world title, and at the same time, the magnitude of this fight in and of itself has contributed to the intensity of this training camp and the workload that we’ve had.

The work that went into this training camp was for me to regain and exceed the level that I was at when I was a reigning world champion.

Q
Did that win in July against Roman Martinez feel even sweeter than maybe some of your past wins because you still managed to show that you’ve got plenty of power even at this stage of your career?

Y. Gamboa
I think the work that was done and put into the camp against Roman Martinez and the results or the outcome of that bout clearly reflected the amount of work that I put into training camp.

Now I expanded and went above and beyond my last training camp in order to get to the level I need to, in order to come out victorious on December 28.
Q
What advantages do you believe you have over Gervonta Davis, heading into this fight?

Y. Gamboa
Obviously the nod has to go for me for experience, just because of the mere fact of my record and who I’ve faced. I definitely think I’ve faced the better opponents and the better quality of opponents than Gervonta has, with all due respect to him.

At the same time, the last fight that I had against Martinez, not only that but also against Beltran, goes to indicate that there’s a lot left for me to give in this sport. So, there are a lot of things that are being overlooked, and that I believe give me a definite advantage over Gervonta, come December 28.

Q
You made it very clear, after your co-main event in Baltimore that Gervonta Davis was the fight that you wanted. Why did you feel so strongly about that? Why were you so clear that he was the fighter you wanted?

Y. Gamboa
It’s a fight that was promised to me when I came into an agreement with PBC and it’s something that’s within the contract that if I was able to beat Martinez, Gervonta was on the horizon and I knew that if I did my part by beating Martinez in July that the next step would logically be Gervonta. So, that’s why I was so sure of it.

Q
How important is this fight for your legacy and for all of Cuban boxing?

Y. Gamboa
This fight definitely has some great significance to me, to be representing Cuban boxing and with what’s happened as of late, not only with Luis Ortiz but also in prior fights where, some of my compatriots did not come through, with exception of Yunier Dorticos. This fight represents not only a victory for me, but it also represents a victory for Cuba, and a victory for all my people if I do come out with a victory.

Q
What do you expect from the fight? How do you expect it to develop? Do you expect a firefight? Do you think it’s going to be more of a tactical, skillful fight?

Y. Gamboa
I think it’s going to be a blend of both. I think there’s going to be good exchanges here and there throughout the rounds. But at the same time, I think we both carry a significant amount of intelligence into the ring, and I don’t expect anything less from Tank, and obviously not from myself.

So, I suspect it’s going to be a good mix. There’s going to be a lot of tactical moves, a lot of game-playing from both sides. But by the same token, there’s going to be absolutely no shying away from exchanging blows in the middle of the ring.

L. Ellerbe
We expect a great fight come Saturday December 28, from Gamboa and his team. They’ll be very well-prepared. So, as we move on to Gervonta Davis, when you have a superstar fighter, it’s all about team.

And this next person, the next person I’d like to welcome onto the call, he’s been a tremendous part of Gervonta Davis’s team. He’s been a father figure, he’s been a mentor, and he’s been an outstanding trainer to not only Gervonta, but several other young men and young women in the Upton Gym. So without further ado, Calvin Ford, to say a few words.

Calvin Ford
How you doing, Leonard? Thank you for this opportunity to be able to talk to you all. Just looking forward to December 28. “Tank” and I are working hard, looking forward to that name guy Gamboa.

I’ve been watching his work for a while. Just waiting for the fight to get here, so we can show our talent and what we do here at Upton Boxing in Baltimore.

L. Ellerbe
Thank you, Calvin. So, without further ado, the main event, the main attraction, two-time world champion, none other than Gervonta “Tank” Davis.

Gervonta Davis
Camp’s been going great. I’ve been training hard with just a few pounds to lose now. We’ve been sharpening our tools. I’m back training with the younger guys in the gym and things like that. Camp’s been going great. I feel strong, I feel healthy. I can’t wait till fight night.

It’s going to be an explosive night, not just for me. The whole card going to be explosive, I believe. I have my young brothers fighting on the undercard again, so it’s a night that I’m looking forward to. I can’t wait.

Q
What is it about you, would you say, that people care so much about in and out of the ring?

G. Davis
I believe, just in the ring, I’m explosive. I’m a great fighter all around the board. Outside the ring, I’m not a mean guy. I’m a likeable guy. I’m reachable, to my people. So I believe I’m just overall a great person. I believe that, and people see that.

Some might, see me on Instagram or Twitter and think otherwise, but when you really get to know me, I’m a likeable guy. So that’s why I think that, people are drawn to me.
Q
When it comes to boxing 25 and under, you seem to be the guy that’s generating the most popularity. How would you describe that with the younger fans in particular?

G. Davis
I believe because I’m around that age group, I have a big impact on the youth. I’m just 25. I just turned 25, and I’m doing well for myself. And again, I’m reachable. It’s not only like they can see me on Instagram or TV or anything.

But I’m actually in Baltimore City where I’m from, and I’m around other fights in other cities, and you can come up to me and take pictures and things like that. When Floyd was coming up, when he was younger, and he was doing well for himself and he was in the area like me. So, it’s better than, being reachable, than just seeing somebody that’s going to work for themself like a star, just on TV. When you see them on TV, you see them. But when you actually get near them and feel them and be face to face with them, it’s more enjoyable. So that’s what I think.

Q
Why is now the time to play at 135, and going forward, would you envision jumping back and forth between 130 and 135, depending on the fight?

G. Davis
For me, the jump back down to 130, I believe I can do it. If the right opportunity comes, I’d definitely come back to 130. It was just a game plan for me and my team. We came to 135 to snatch a belt, and I felt like I definitely wanted to do that.

I’d be a two division, three-time world champion. So I thought it was a great idea to do, so we did it.

Q
To this point, has the year gone how you wanted it to go, for you and Calvin?

G. Davis
For me on my end, it definitely went as planned. My team discussed that we would fight three times this year. I definitely am going to fight three times this year, so I’m happy. Hopefully 2020 will be a better year, but I’m happy with my career right now.

C. Ford
Everything is right on time. We would have had Abner Mares first, so we were still looking for that name guy. Gamboa stepped up, to the plate to take this fight, so we’re looking to, start fighting these name guys the public wants to see.

So right now, we’re just concerned about this fight right here and going in for a great performance. I can’t wait to see Tank, because he got to his peak quicker than what I thought he would this camp.

So I’m going to see what type of performance Gamboa is going to put on. He’s top secret with everything, so I’m looking forward to what he’s going to bring to the table. I’m seeing ahead, but I like to focus on the person that he’s going to put on his performance on.

Q
Gervonta, I was just wondering if, at least on paper, you feel that Yuriorkis Gamboa is the best opponent that you will have fought?

G. Davis
On paper, I believe – it’s got to be hand in hand with Jose Pedraza. Yes, I think so. It’s got to be hand in hand, because when I fought Pedraza, he was a world champion. He was a young world champion and he was undefeated.

Gamboa, he was, an Olympian. a former world champion, so it’s got to be hand in hand. I can’t take no credit away from, Pedraza, so I believe them two are probably the best.

Q
Okay, but you feel he’s clearly the best opponent that you’ve fought since you beat Pedraza?

G. Davis
Yes, he is probably one of the best opponents since I beat Pedraza. I know he comes to fight. I’m looking forward to it, actually. In the gym, we work on things that he might do in the fight, and we’re just waiting for December 28, to see what he brings to the table.

Q
Also Calvin, could you answer that as well, in terms of where he might rank as far as guys “Tank”has fought so far?

C. Ford
Well, again, if you remember any of my last interviews, I’m still looking for that guy that’s going to bring the best out of Tank, because I know Tank’s capabilities. But I know Gamboa is going to be Gamboa.

He’s doing all the stuff that he needs to be doing to prepare for this title. It’s a world title. He’s got the motivation in front of him. And I know Tank’s capabilities. It’s not about the power.

So I’m looking for Gamboa to be that guy. So his team and them, they’re doing their job. They understand what they’re against.

They’re working on stuff. We understand what we’re against. We’re just waiting for December 28 so we can put on a great performance for Atlanta, because they’ve been waiting for it for the longest. I hope Baltimore will be in Atlanta, and just make it one big party.

Q
Do you remember Gamboa’s fight against Crawford? Was there anything that you could take away from that fight and what maybe you remember from that?

G. Davis
When I watched the Crawford vs Gamboa fight, that’s the fight I actually keep watching. Gamboa was touching him up in the beginning of rounds, because Crawford was too wide. So, I took that and tried to not be wide, like throwing a lot of round punches.

But the explosiveness was there and he was actually right-handed when Gamboa was touching him up. So once he turned southpaw, then that was a different story. I was learning from his mistakes, just not be wide.

But I’m always going to be me in the ring and do, what Gervonta Davis does. That’s, be explosive, be fast, and if we go 12 rounds, I’m definitely here for it. But I don’t see this fight going 12 rounds.

Q
Would it mean something to you at all to get him out of there before Crawford did?

G. Davis
Not really, but if I do, it would tell that, I’m top five, pound for pound, for sure.
Q
Have you felt the difference in preparing for a fight at 135 pounds versus when you held the 130-pound title? Do you feel like it’s a little easier for you, not having to worry about cutting those extra five pounds?

G. Davis
I don’t want to say easier, but I definitely got in shape way quicker than I normally do. I start running on the highest speed level. It was just way quicker than it normally is.

So, I’m just looking forward to December the 28th. I know it’s been great for me inside the gym, but it’s always about, December the 28th, fight night, how you perform there and how you put on a show?

So, camp’s been going great for me. It’s actually been, fast. I got in shape fast. And sparring ten and 12 rounds. I want to say I probably have like close to, like, 80 to 90 rounds in. So, I don’t know if that’s a good thing or a bad thing, but I’ve been working, so I don’t have to worry about the weight. I’m good on the weight, so it’s been great for me.

Q
Do you feel like maybe 135, you could see down the road, this being your better weight for you than 130?

G. Davis
It’s possible. It’s possible I’m at a better weight class. Because I haven’t fought at that weight yet, so I don’t know yet. It’s all good in training camp, and it matters, but what we’re really worried about is December the 28th and how it looks when I get inside the ring.

So, right now, it feels great. I don’t have to worry about the weight. I’m actually a couple pounds over my weight class. But we still have, a couple more days and things like that. I’m feeling great right now, so we’ll just see how we feel December the 28th.

L. Ellerbe
Okay. I’d like to thank everyone who came onto the call, and we really look forward to a great SHOWTIME event. This fight will be the event of the year, at the end of the year. Have a great day.

#

ABOUT DAVIS VS. GAMBOA
Davis vs. Gamboa will see two-time super featherweight champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis, Mayweather Promotions’ top rising star and boxing’s hottest attraction, as he takes on former unified world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa for the WBA Lightweight Title live on SHOWTIME Saturday, December 28 at the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The special holiday SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Jean Pascal battling two-division champion Badou Jack in the co-main event.

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

NEW YORK (December 19, 2019) – SHOWTIME Sports will live stream three bouts as part of an exciting night of undercard action on Saturday, December 28 from the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta. The special holiday presentation is headlined by two-time Super Featherweight Champion Gervonta Davis, who is moving up in weight to take on former unified world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa for the vacant WBA Lightweight Title in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

A pair of ShoBox: The New Generation alums will fight in separate bouts on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING COUNTDOWN as undefeated rising prospect Malik Hawkins faces off against unbeaten Darwin Price in a 10-round super lightweight fight, while undefeated Angelo Leo squares off against Cesar Juarez in an IBF and WBO Super Bantamweight Title Eliminator. The streaming portion of the night also features cruiserweight prospect Viddal Riley from London in a four-round fight against Cincinnati’s Muhammad Abdullah. Riley is widely recognized as the trainer for YouTube star KSI.

The digital offering begins live at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page leading into the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

The event is headlined by boxing’s hottest attraction in the undefeated Baltimore native Davis taking on the veteran Gamboa and will feature a co-main event pitting WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Jean Pascal against two-division champion Badou Jack. In the telecast opener, former world champion Jose “Bolivita” Uzcategui will return to battle Lionell Thompson in a 10-round super middleweight fight.

Ray Flores will call the live undercard play-by-play action on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING COUNTDOWN from ringside alongside Hall of Fame analyst Steve Farhood.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale and available through Ticketmaster.com.

In SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP COUNTDOWN streaming coverage, Davis’ stablemate and up-and-coming prospect Hawkins (17-0, 10 KOs) will face the toughest test of his career as he looks to make a statement in one of boxing’s hottest division at 140 pounds. The 23-year-old Hawkins fought on the Davis vs. Ricardo Nunez undercard July 27 at Royal Farms Arena in Baltimore as he scored an eight-round unanimous decision against Jonathan Steele. In his last fight, Hawkins knocked out All Rivera in Las Vegas in September. Currently trained by Calvin Ford and Kenny Ellis, Hawkins was 93-8 in the amateurs, which included tournament titles at the State Golden Gloves and Regional Golden Gloves. In April of 2017, Hawkins made his nationally televised debut on ShoBox at MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Md., as he scored a dominating second-round TKO of previously undefeated Carlos Soto.

The 30-year-old Price (16-0, 9 KOs) lives and trains in Houston and has scored three knockouts in 2019, including most recently stopping Breidis Prescott in October in a headlining appearance in his hometown. A pro since 2013, Price did not fight in 2018 as he was forced to the sidelines for 15 months after suffering a patellar tendon injury in training. Prior to that, he had won eight fights between 2015 and 2017, including impressive victories over then unbeaten Semajay Thomas and Javontae Starks. A standout track and field runner at Grambling State University prior to his pro boxing career, Price can put himself closer to world title contention by turning away the rising prospect Hawkins.

Leo (18-0, 8 KOs) is another ShoBox alum who will be featured on the live stream as he takes on former world title challenger Cesar Juarez (25-7, 19 KOs) in a 12-round IBF and WBO Super Bantamweight Title Eliminator. The Mayweather Promotions prospect Leo went wire-to-wire in an impressive and dominating 10-round unanimous decision victory over Neil John Tabanao in April in the ShoBox main event at Sam’s Town in Las Vegas. The veteran Juarez is from Mexico City and turned pro in 2010. He lost WBO world titles fights on two occasions, first against Nonito Donaire in 2015 in Puerto Rico and then against Issac Dogboe in 2018 in South Africa. Both Leo and Juarez are ranked in the top 10 by the IBF at 122 pounds.

Recognized widely as the trainer for YouTube star KSI, cruiserweight prospect Riley (3-0, 2 KOs) will put his undefeated record on the line against Abdullah(4-1-1, 2 KOs) in a four-round cruiserweight bout. The 22-year-old Riley represented England at the European Junior Boxing Championships in Russia in 2013. As an amateur, Riley won eight national championships and had a record of 41-8 (19 KOs). He recorded knockouts in his first two pro fights and notched a four-round unanimous decision in his third pro bout.

The stacked lineup of non-televised attractions includes light heavyweight contender Ahmed Elbiali (18-1, 16 KOs) in a 10-round bout against veteran Bryan Vera (26-15, 16 KOs), once-beaten contender Ladarius Miller (20-1, 6 KOs) in a 10-round super lightweight duel against Mexico’s Miguel Zamudio (44-15-1, 27 KOs) and Washington D.C.’s Kareem Martin (13-2-1, 4 KOs) taking on Russia’s Petros Ananyan (14-1-2, 7 KOs) in an eight-round super lightweight affair.

Also entering the ring is undefeated Baltimore-native Malik Warren (2-0, 2 KOs) in a four-round super featherweight duel against Macon, Georgia’s Trayvion Butts (3-0, 2 KOs) and unbeaten lightweight Jackson Martinez (18-0, 6 KOs) from the Dominican Republic squaring off against Mexico’s Yardley Cruz (26-14, 16 KOs) for an eight-round affair

Rounding out the lineup are Atlanta native and super featherweight prospect DeMichael Harris taking on Amonie Sanders in a four-round fight and the pro debut of Baltimore’s Mia Ellis in a four-round super lightweight battle against North Carolina’s Khadijah Sanders.

#

ABOUT DAVIS VS. GAMBOA
Davis vs. Gamboa will see two-time super featherweight champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis, Mayweather Promotions’ top rising star and boxing’s hottest attraction, as he takes on former unified world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa for the WBA Lightweight Title live on SHOWTIME Saturday, December 28 at the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The special holiday SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Jean Pascal battling two-division champion Badou Jack in the co-main event.

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

LAS VEGAS, NV (December 19, 2019) – Prince Ranch Boxing’s undefeated super bantamweight prospect, Raeese “The Beast” Aleem (15-0, 9 KOs), has his sights on facing all the top contenders and champions in the upcoming 2020 year.

In his las fight, Aleem, who is promoted by Kings Promotions, retired Saul Eduardo Hernandez (14-15, 9 KOs) by third round stoppage, a fight that took place on the undercard of Erickson Lubin vs Nathaniel Gallimore on October 26, 2019. Having knocked out seven of his last ten opponents, Aleem is looking to carry that momentum into the new year.

“I have big plans to step up in competition next year and make a name for myself,” said Aleem, who is managed by Greg Hannley of Prince Ranch Boxing. “Right now, I’m flying under the radar, but that is about to change when I fight someone with a name. I’m hoping I’ll land a big fight in the early part of next year. I know my team is working hard behind the scenes to make it happen. I’ll be ready to go when I get that call.”

The super bantamweight is loaded with some of the best fighters in boxing. World champions, Rey Vargas (33-0, 22 KOs), Daniel Roman (27-2-1, 10 KOs), Emanuel Navarrete (30-1, 26 KOs) and Brandon Figueroa (20-0, 15 KOs), are all fighters with big names that Aleem wants to face.

“I want to fight all of the super bantamweight champions at some point.” Aleem continued. “I know I have to work my way up the rankings, so that’s what I’m going to do. I told my team that I’m willing to fight any and all world ranked contenders. Vargas, Roman and Navarrete, all those champions are beatable. Brandon Figueroa is not on my level, so if he wants to get some, then come get some. Next year will be my year. Soon everyone will know my name. All I need is an opportunity.”

“In 2020, everyone will start to recognize Raeese as one of the top fighters in the super bantamweight division,” said Greg Hannley of Prince Ranch Boxing. “He’s ready to step up and solidify his position as top contender. His promoter Marshall Kaufman and I agree, Raeese Aleem will be a household name in the near future. Big fights are on the horizon.”

Daniel Jacobs enters a new chapter in his career tomorrow night and in the latest episode of ‘Born Fighter’ says his early sacrifices as a teenager led to him becoming a two-time World champion hunting two-weight glory, starting with his debut at 168lbs against Julio Cesar Chavez Jr at the Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix, Arizona on Friday night, live on DAZN on US and Sky Sports in the UK.
CLICK HERE TO WATCH DANIEL JACOBS ON ‘BORN FIGHTER’ ON MATCHROOM BOXING’S YOUTUBE CHANNEL
TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW STARTING FROM $25 (plus booking fee)
 Jacobs (35-3 29 KOs) closed the book on his time at Middleweight in May with a unification clash with Canelo Alvarez in Las Vegas, and the two-time World ruler now embarks on his quest to become a two-weight World champion.

The ‘Miracle Man’ faces Chavez Jr (51-3-1 33 KOs) with the Mexican star also hunting two-weight World honors, but a relaxed Jacobs told Lauren Gardner that he’s in a great place mentally for the fight as his career moves to a new stage after over 18 years in the game.

“Life is blissful,” said Jacobs. “I’m so fortunate to have made the early sacrifices in my life to be in this position now, to see my son thrive, be in an excellent school and be doing so well in school, that’s all I can ask for as a family man.

“Any time you have inner city kids that don’t have a lot, they look at sports or entertainment as an outlet. For me, boxing found me and I was able to take boxing as my outlet and be the best that I can be. But anyone that is from a place like Brooklyn can vouch for the mindset and mentality that if things aren’t given to you and you have to work for it, you say to yourself that you are going to go out there and get it or stay content with what I have. 

“I was afraid of the streets, I was a Momma’s boy, I didn’t want to be in harms way. I had no teenage life, I have been dedicated to the gym since I was 14. I never partied or hung out with friends, nothing that a normal teenager did. I think that now I make up for that with my friends and family now. 

“I look at the friends I grew up with or people that came from the same neighborhood who didn’t make those early sacrifices, and a lot of them aren’t where they wanted to be, they are on the streets or are dead. I made a conscious decision to stay away from that when I was very young and I am proof that if you make sacrifices early for a goal and keep that goal sacred, you can succeed and live forever like a king later in life. 

“My spirits are high. When you are mentally in the best shape possible going into a fight it will definitely show and now that we don’t have any weight issues going into a fight like we did before, I think the fans are going see the Daniel Jacobs people saw in the amateurs and the early days as a pro.”

Jacobs is the latest fighter featured on season two of ‘Born Fighter’ following the likes of Devin Haney, Billy Joe Saunders and Michael Hunter as the second series focuses on the stable at Matchroom Boxing USA after 11 episodes from the British and Irish stable featuring Katie Taylor, Luke Campbell, Dillian Whyte, Joshua Buatsi and more.

The series will be presented by Lauren Gardner, a familiar face to sports fans in America as the host of DAZN’s nightly live baseball program “ChangeUp” as well as a contributing reporter for DAZN’s boxing coverage. The Colorado native has worked with CBS Sports, AT&T SportsNet, Fox Sports Ohio, MTV2, MLB/NHL Network and ESPN, where she covered NFL, MLB, NHL, NBA, College Football, College Basketball and two Super Bowls. The American series of ‘Born Fighter’ will also appear on DAZN 24 hours after premiering on Matchroom Boxing’s YouTube channel.
 Chavez Jr and Jacobs clash on a huge night of action in Phoenix as Julio Cesar Martinez takes on Cristofer Rosales for the vacant WBC World Flyweight title. The Welterweight division is in focus on the card as Maurice Hooker starts his quest to become a two-weight World champion as he moves up to Welterweight and takes on Uriel Perez on his bow at 147lbs. Josh Kelly is one of the stand out talents in the Welterweight division, and he meets Winston Campos as he closes in on a clash with European champion David Avanesyan at the start of 2020. Olympic gold medal man Daniyar Yeleussinov is another Welterweight star on the card and he looks to impress in his ninth pro outing against Alan Sanchez. Gabriel Rosado will have a keen eye on the main event as he fights for the 38th time as a pro against Humberto Ochoa while Brit star Liam Smith continues his charge to a second World title reign in a ten round clash with Roberto Garcia. Three of Matchroom Boxing USA’s bright young things complete the stacked card in Nikita Ababiy, Reshat Mati and Raymond Ford.

MIAMI (December 18, 2019) – Former unified world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa, an Olympic gold medalist from Cuba, held a media workout in Miami Wednesday as he prepares to take on boxing’s hottest attraction Gervonta “Tank” Davis for the vacant WBA Lightweight Title Saturday, December 28 live on SHOWTIME from the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale and available through Ticketmaster.com. Good tickets are still available. All tickets start at $54 and $104.

Here is what Gamboa and his assistant trainer had to say Wednesday from Roque Boxing Gym in Miami:

YURIORKIS GAMBOA

“I feel great that that I have this opportunity to prove in the ring what I can do. This is a fight that can get me back to the very top of the sport.

“After I signed my contract and I beat Roman Martinez in July there were a number of names that came up as possible opponents that I could face in my second fight. One name that came up was Davis, so I took the challenge.

“Obviously I have a huge edge in experience and I think the quality of opponents I’ve faced, versus his opponents, gives me another edge. Plus, the preparation I put into this fight. I really don’t see anyone outworking me. The work that I put into this fight gives me a big advantage.

“What power does he have that I haven’t faced? Without question this is going to be a great fight. There are going to be great moments of battle and a war, but at the same time, a lot of intelligence will be shown in the ring. So it’s a formula for a great fight and I think the fans are going to be pleased.

“I didn’t see Gervonta’s last fight on July 27 (the same night Gamboa fought last). I didn’t care to watch. I went to my dressing room, I waited to get paid, and then I went to my hotel. I didn’t bother to watch it.”

STACY MCKINLEY, Gamboa’s Assistant Trainer

“We know ‘Tank’ is a big puncher, but experience is going to take its course. He’s never been past the sixth round before. And his trainer has never been past the sixth round before. So when you start talking about round eight, round nine, round 10, round 12, you’re in new territory.

“It’s like Sugar Ray Leonard told Tommy Hearns: ‘I’m going to take you out to deep water, and I’m going to drown you.’ So this is what we expect to do, take him into deep water and drown him.

“Gamboa is very versatile. You’ve got to watch him real close. I’ve watched him real close and I’ve seen him thrown punches that most fighters can’t throw. I see technique and I see the change up in the ring. The last few weeks we’ve changed things up and are using different techniques. He’s a great Cuban fighter.

“He jumped up two weight classes (to fight Terence Crawford). Terence Crawford is a big guy. You’ve got a guy like Terence Crawford who says (Gamboa) can punch, then you have to take his word as gospel. What makes (Gamboa) a good puncher is that he knows how to create his shots. He knows where to hit you and he doesn’t waste punches. So you get him in the right spot and hit the pressure points, then it’s a lot different than just getting hit anywhere and it’s more devastating.

“‘Tank’ is a young man. Don’t underestimate him. He’s a good fighter and a dangerous fighter. He needs to be a little more disciplined. I saw something on the Internet the other night where he was out on a date. He’s needs to be training and not out on a date. He’s saying he’s walking around at 180, 185 pounds. You’re in a fight right there if you’ve got eight weeks to take that weight off. It’s going to play a part against him down the road.”

#

ABOUT DAVIS VS. GAMBOA
Davis vs. Gamboa will see two-time super featherweight champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis, Mayweather Promotions’ top rising star and boxing’s hottest attraction, as he takes on former unified world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa for the WBA Lightweight Title live on SHOWTIME Saturday, December 28 at the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The special holiday SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Jean Pascal battling two-division champion Badou Jack in the co-main event.

DANIEL DUBOIS AND his opponent at the Copper Box Arena, Kyotaro Fujimoto, went face-to-face for the first time at the BT studios in Stratford ahead of the bumper ‘The Fight Before Christmas’ show on Saturday night, live on BT Sport 1, with the WBC Silver and WBO International heavyweight titles at stake.

Also featuring in headline action is Liam Williams, who takes on the American Alantez Fox in a final eliminator to fight for the WBO world middleweight title.

Below are the key quotes from the lead characters on Saturday night’s card.

Daniel Dubois

I have not underestimated him because every fight I prepare for like it is for a world title. It is a good fight and I would never overlook anyone. I have not looked at him closely because I leave that to my coach and I just keep hard at work in the gym with sparring.

I will just do what I have done all year round. I have been active and I am ready to go again. It has been an amazing year and it will be an even better one next year.

I am young and ready to go, I have a lot of ability and I am ready to be pushed on now. It is about getting the right fights and Frank is mapping out a route to mandatories. I would definitely go in with someone like Joshua and it is what I have been dreaming of since the day I started boxing, being in massive fights and coming through and winning them.

This one will be another devastating finish and a good performance.

Kyotaro Fujimoto

I would like to acknowledge the hospitality of promoter Frank Warren and reciprocate with a bottle of Saki.

I just want to express how happy I am to have such a big chance with belts on the line. It doesn’t come around very often so, when I win, I will be even happier on Saturday.

As you know we have a lot of excellent boxers in the lower weights in Japan, but there aren’t many heavyweights to speak of. I want to make history here with my performance and create more interest in the heavyweight division in Japan.

There aren’t many people for me to spar with in Japan, so it has been a very enriching experience for me training in LA, especially getting to move around with bigger guys around Daniel’s size.

The power they have too, to experience that has been a good learning experience.

Frank Warren

It does promise to be a terrific show. We’ve got a great main event along with excellent support bouts with great competitive fights. Every one of them will be good fights, I am looking forward to it and I think we will give the fans value for money.

The winner out of Liam Williams and Alantez Fox will get Andrade. I think Andrade is fighting in January and whoever wins this will be in with him. Alantez is a quality operator, 6ft 4” tall southpaw and he obviously fancies the job by coming to the UK. I’ve got every confidence in Liam, who is with us and he has been craving a meaningful fight at this weight and we have delivered it to him.

It is not like he hasn’t been in the position of pushing for world titles before, but he seems to be much, much more comfortable at middleweight and I think we’ve got a real good fight on our hands with these two guys.

Fujimoto must be an Arsenal fan with hair like that, but who wants to be an Arsenal fans these days… For Daniel this is the chance to get a WBA ranking, Kyotaro is 21-1 and he lost that fight eight years ago. He comes from a fighting background and was a world champion kickboxer. He is game and he is coming over to fight Daniel, so he cannot take anything for granted.

This is all about Daniel. It has been a busy year and he wants to out with a bang to set himself up for 2020. All the big guns are fighting next year, Joshua regained his title and has got two mandatories coming, while Tyson is fighting DeontayWilder in February and they may another fight in the summer.

When the dust has all settled these guys will have a mandatory and maybe one of the titles will be freed up. It is Daniel’s job to win on Saturday and then by say October to get himself into a mandatory position to fight for a world title. That is where we are at.

People may laugh about it, but if I could make him and Anthony Joshua today I would make it. I am so confident and I know who I would have my money on.

Alantez Fox

I’ve never fought anyone anywhere near my height and I am actually 6ft 5”. In my fight against Andrade I tore a muscle in my rotator cuff and, after carrying on using it, I tore my bicep in my left arm. I fought from round one to round 12 with several injuries in my left arm. I had surgery and sat out for about a year and this will be my fourth fight back.

He called me a skinny little rat and it was funny to me at first and I told him to call me the rat from Ninja Turtles. He’s sees me now and I don’t look like a skinny rat.

I’ve watched several fights and have studied him. I don’t take Liam lightly at all. No disrespect to the other fighters, but our fight is the best one on the card. I’ve watched him and I don’t think this is the guy to beat me. He’s never fought someone like me and it is not going to be a stoppage, man.

I can control the fight at whatever distance I want to. He is definitely underestimating me. I will box his ass off and come out victorious. There is nothing he can do in there to beat me.

Liam Williams

I really believe he is a quality fighter, even though I have said things. He is quality and he has got obvious advantages over me in height and reach. It doesn’t matter, but he is a good boxer and he is going to come and try and keep it long.

I am just going to tear though him and I will, one hundred per cent. It is a huge night after taking my losses a couple of years ago and I have come a long way from there. I am not going to allow a loss to happen again. I am fully prepared and, whether it is Alantez Fox in my way or someone else, I don’t think they are going to stop me. I am motivated and I fully believe I will beat anyone put in front of me right now.

I believe I have come on a long way since switching to Sheffield and Dominic Ingle has done very good things for me in terms of my training and even the way I approach each situation mentally. He has done a lot for me and I had a good trainer before in Gary Lockett and we remain friends.

I needed to take that next step and, for me, a big thing was moving away from home where I fully dedicate myself, whereas before I was cutting corners. Now everything is bang on and I’ve got no excuses. I am just looking forward to seeing the level I can reach when performing at my best.

I just think he is going to be in for a tough night and I am sure he thinks the same about me. It is going to be a good fight and I personally think we should be top of the bill. Jokes aside we should be the main fight because it is probably going to last three rounds, while Daniel’s will probably last one or two.

Our fight is the one to watch because there will be more to see. Although as soon as I clip him on the chin a couple of times he is probably going to go into his shell. I will pound the life out of him.

I will be top of the bill next time.

TOMMY FURY

I have had a good summer and it has been a bit different. I am a young lad and, when it got put to me at first (Love Island), I thought I am a young lad, I am 20 and what is the rush. Taking a few months out has done me no harm and it was something I wanted to do.

So I went on and did it and it has paid off massively. I don’t want everyone to forget what I did before that. I am not a reality TV person, although I have done a few spin-offs from it, I am a boxer and it is what I have done my whole life from when I was small.

I don’t regard myself as anybody sat at this table. If I had my way I wouldn’t be on that wall because I’ve done nothing as a boxer. So forget about all that other stuff because it is not important.

It is a bit different when I walk down the street now, of course, but when you boil it down does it really mean anything? Is it really going to change my life that much? It is not really important.

The only thing I want in life is to be a world champion. Money and fame doesn’t interest me. You can look back to when I was 14 or 15 and I am the same now as I was back then.

I’ve done a little bit of sparring with Tyson and I will be the first to say it was absolutely pointless! I never landed a shot and never even looked like landing a shot. It is experience, he is the best in the world and that is the reason why.

There is nobody better to spar with because I am learning everything I could possibly learn off him.

I would not be sat here right now if I didn’t believe I could become a world champion. Believe me when I say that. Boxing is too hard of a game just to tip and tap, you’ve got to be all or nothing and that is the way I think about everything.

I will be a world champion in the future, but I am 20 year’s old and there is no rush.

PICTURES FROM THE PRESS CONFERENCE HERE

————————
ABOUT THE SHOW
Unbeaten Heavyweight sensation Daniel Dubois (13-0) looks to continue his path of destruction against Japan’s Kyotaro Fujimoto (21-1). The WBC Silver Heavyweight championship and the WBO International Heavyweight belts will be on the line.
Liam Williams (21-2-1) faces American Alantez Fox (26-1-1) for the right to become number one in the rankings for the WBO world middleweight crown.
Sunny Edwards (13-0) fights for the vacant British super-flyweight title against former amateur teammate Marcel Braithwaite (9-1), with Light Heavyweight prospect and Love Island star Tommy Fury (2-0) making his long awaited return to the boxing ring after winning the hearts of the nation on the popular ITV reality television show over the summer.
Tickets from £40 are now on sale via Seetickets and via Ticketmaster

Ticket prices:

£250 – Hospitality
£150 – Floor
£100 – Floor
£75 – Floor
£50 – Lower Tier
£40 – Upper Tier
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BROOKLYN (December 18, 2019) – Two-division world champion Danny “Swift” Garcia and hard-hitting Ivan “El Terrible” Redkach went face to face for the first time at a press conference on Wednesday as they previewed their WBC Welterweight Title Eliminator headlining action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, January 25 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The press conference also featured former unified champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd and Francisco “Chia” Santana, who will battle in the co-feature, and unbeaten sensation Stephen Fulton, who takes on undefeated Arnold Khegai in a WBC Super Bantamweight Title eliminator.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and DSG Promotions, are on-sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.comand barclayscenter.com. Tickets also can be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP. The Fulton vs. Khegai bout is promoted in association with Salita Promotions.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Wednesday from Barclays Center:

DANNY GARCIA

“This is my eighth fight at Barclays Center and I’m excited to be back. I’ve fought in a quarter of the events here at Barclays Center, so you could say this is my house. I’ve had some historic fights in here. I love walking in the tunnels and seeing my pictures next to Jay-Z, DMX and Rihanna.

“Come January 25, this is going to be another great night of boxing. I know Ivan is coming to fight. We’ve followed each other’s careers. I know he’s hungry and he wants to show the fans that he belongs on this level.

“I’m excited to share the card with my Philadelphia brother Stephen Fulton, who I’ve known since he was a kid. Plus, Jarrett Hurd, who’s journey I’ve been watching. It’s been great and he’s going to show everyone that a loss doesn’t mean anything. Just like I have.

“I just think the culture here in Brooklyn is great and I fit right in with it. Lots of hip-hop and Puerto Ricans. It’s the perfect market and we just go together.

“If the top welterweights want to fight me, I’ll be ready whenever. Redkach makes a lot of sense because he’s a southpaw and that would have me ready for Errol Spence Jr. or Manny Pacquiao.

“We picked Redkach because he’s dangerous and we knew he’d be tough. I’m definitely not overlooking him. I’m training hard for this fight. For me, this is a big fight. If I overlook him, it could ruin everything. I want to show everyone I’m still one of the best pound for pound fighters in the world.

“Redkach has a big heart and he’s going to come forward. I think it’s going to be a really entertaining fight. I can’t overlook him.

“I always feel like I’m the best. They need me, I don’t need them. I’m one of the best fighters in the world and I’m going to be here for a while.”

IVAN REDKACH

“I want to give thanks to my team and everyone involved in making this fight and for believing in me, which give me the belief that gives me the strength to go in the ring and give it my all.

“This opportunity fighting at Barclays Center is huge for me. I accept the opportunity with honor and I want to thank Danny Garcia for taking the fight.

“My friends and family provide me with the will to win. That support, along with my experience, is what I’ll need to win this fight.

“I want Danny Garcia’s fans to all come out on January 25 because you’re going to see a great fight and you’re going to be welcomed into the Ivan Redkach family.

“The victory over Devon Alexander was important because he was a well-known opponent. Winning in the fashion that I did catapulted me to where I am right now.

“Danny made a mistake if he thinks this is a tune-up. I’m going to give everyone a great fight and we’ll see what happens on January 25.

“Training alongside Leo Santa Cruz was great motivation. I’m going to knock Danny Garcia out. That’s the plan. Simple.

“I’m training very hard because this fight is extremely important to me. I have to give the best performance of my professional career.

“The energy in the building on January 25 is going to give me the extra motivation to not only put up a great performance, but to leave Brooklyn with the victory.”

JARRETT HURD

“This is my first time doing interviews since I fought Julian Williams. Last time I was up here I was an undefeated fighter and then I suffered my first loss.

“We had the rematch set up for this December, but with me going through a switch in trainers and still in the process of searching, I wasn’t in condition for it. It was the hardest thing possible to not take the rematch, much harder than taking it.

“I’ve been training in Colorado with Kay Koroma and getting away from everything. We’re focused strictly on boxing. I cut the hair off too because I was just ready for a change. The work so far is showing me how much work I have left to do and how much room I have to grow.

“I will stay at 154-pounds and fight for my titles again. I’m not looking past Francisco Santana because he’s a great fighter. I’m working hard to get back to the old me.

“This is the fighter who was put in front of me. He has the style that we were looking for with my having my first fight with my new trainer. I had some time out of a gym after the Williams fight but now we’re going strong toward January 25.

“I would never say I overlooked Julian Williams. There’s no excuses. Julian was the better man that night. When I look back there were probably some things that could have affected me, but Julian deserved to win the fight.

“I don’t know if I’m a better fighter now, but the loss opened my eyes to some things. My new coach has really opened my eyes to some things that I need to work on. Using my jab more and my footwork specifically.

“I’m not thinking about anyone but Francisco Santana. I look back at my fights and realize that I won those fights on pure heart and determination. We’re doing things different this time and working behind strategy and skills.”

FRANCISCO SANTANA

“Jarrett Hurd is a good solid fighter who’s accomplished a lot. This is my Super Bowl. When someone calls and presents an opportunity like this, you can’t turn it down.

“To fight against one of the biggest names in the division, that’s hard to say no to. Of course I’m going to step up to the plate and on January 25 I’m going to show everyone the definition of never giving up on a dream.

“I’ve had setbacks like Jarrett and I’ve picked myself up and rose to the occasion time and time again. On January 25 I’m going to fight with every ounce of spirit that I have in me so I can go on and become a world champion.

“Jarrett has himself with a new team and when a fighter feels refreshed, you know he’s going to come out strong. I expect nothing less.

“I know that everyone is giving me zero chance come fight night. But that’s okay. I read the comments and what people say. It’s all good. My team believes in me and I believe in myself.

“I’m a big welterweight and people tend to forget that I started my career as a super welterweight, but back then I was self-trained. I used to fight on a couple weeks’ notice and was bouncing from gym to gym. When I met coach Joseph Janik, it all changed and we’ve been together about a decade now. He was the missing piece to my puzzle.

“I’ve often said it’s not how you start a race but how you finish it. I know it’s not an easy task, but I look forward to these big challenges. It will test me as a fighter and a human being. I want to show the whole world my definition of never giving up.

“The minute I stop learning, that would be the time I need to hang them up. I’m still learning and we’re still getting better at our craft. It’s a big challenge. He’s the monster of the division, but this is a great opportunity for me. Sometimes you have to face the monster head on.”

STEPHEN FULTON

“I’m from Philadelphia and Khegai used to live there, but I truly live in Philadelphia. It runs through my blood. That’s how I’m going to carry on and go about this fight.

“This is not the first undefeated fighter I’ve fought. It will be the seventh that I’ve fought and beat. Six have already fell and I don’t know why these guys keep taking these fights. You’ll see what I’m talking about on January 25

“This means a lot to me, but I’m not a rookie. I don’t look at this like something that will bring my nerves up. This is normal to me. I always get things the hard way.

“People like me have been working hard our whole lives. This opponent is no different than anyone I see walking the streets of Philadelphia. I’m always ready.

“Fans should expect a wonderful and intelligent boxing game plan. Khegai is coming to rumble. He thinks he’s stronger than me, but he’s not stronger or smarter than me. No one in my weight class will out think me.”

DMITRIY SALITA, President of Salita Promotions, Khegai’s Promoter

“Arnold is taking this fight very seriously and he’s going to be arriving in training camp today with Joe Goossen.

“Arnold made his us debut in Philadelphia and I know there will be a lot of fans from Philadelphia here. There’s also a great community in Brooklyn with people from the Ukraine and Russia who will be supporting him on fight night.

“We’re excited for this opportunity and we’re looking forward to making this a great night on January 25.”

CHRIS DEBLASIO, Senior Vice President of Communications, SHOWTIME Sports

“Next week, we will begin a run of eight live boxing events in 10 weeks on SHOWTIME featuring many of the biggest stars in the sport. In Atlanta, on Saturday, December 28, Gervonta Davis, Yuriorkis Gamboa, Badou Jack and Jean Pascal will compete in two world title fights. On January 10, Claressa Shields, the No. 1 star in women’s boxing, faces Christina Habazin for a unified 154-pound world title. Rising star, Jaron “Boots” Ennis will also be on that card. And, of course, on January 25, we are excited to present two of the biggest stars in the sport, Danny Garcia and Jarrett Hurd, both former unified world champions, both fighting in important, must-win fights to begin a new chapter in their careers.

“SHOWTIME is proud to continue our tradition of televising important, competitive and meaningful world championship boxing in 2020, our 34th year in the business, with these excellent fights and this great series of events.”

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

Dec. 18, 2019) — The 22-year-old heavyweight destroyer,London’s Daniel “Dynamite” Dubois, will look to close out his breakthrough 2019 in devastating fashion Saturday from the Copper Box Arena in his hometown against Japan’s Kyotaro Fujimoto.
 
The 12-round bout will be contested for Dubois’ WBO International and the vacant WBC Silver heavyweight belts, with the winner positioning himself for a potential world title opportunity in 2020.
 
Dubois (13-0, 12 KOs) is 4-0 in 2019, and his fights — all of which have streamed live on ESPN+ — have lasted a total of 12 rounds. He began his 2019 campaign with a second-round KO of former world title challenger Razvan Cojanu in March and followed that up with a four-round slugfest the following month against Ghanaian veteran Richard Lartey. Dubois captured British title honors in July with a fifth-round stoppage over fellow unbeaten Nathan Gorman and dominated Ebenezer Tetteh in 2:10 to pick up the vacant Commonwealth crown in September. Fujimoto (21-1, 13 KOs) is unbeaten in 16 fights dating back to 2012 and has won his last five via stoppage.
 
In other action on the card, presented by Queensberry Promotions:

• Tommy Fury (2-0, 1 KO), Tyson Fury’s half-brother and fresh off a stint on the popular British reality TV show “Love Island,” will return in a six-rounder at light heavyweight.
   
• Liam “The Machine” Williams (21-2-1, 16 KOs), who is riding a five-bout winning streak, will fight 6-foot-4 American contender Alantez Fox (26-1-1, 12 KOs) in a 12-round WBO middleweight world title eliminator. Fox has won three straight since a 2017 decision loss to current WBO middleweight world champion Demetrius Andrade.
   
• Former British amateur star David Adeleye will make his long-awaited professional debut in a four-round heavyweight contest against an opponent to be named.
   
• Sunny “Showtime” Edwards (13-0, 4 KOs), one of Great Britain’s rising young talents, will battle Marcel “The Chosen One” Braithwaite (9-1, 0 KOs) in a 12-rounder for the vacant British super flyweight crown. Edwards is 3-0 in 2019 and has won regional titles at both flyweight and super flyweight. 

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

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+ grew quickly to 3.5 million subscribers in 18 months, 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.

Bensalem, PA – Unbeaten Irishman Rohan Date (11-0-1, 8K0s) makes his U.S. debut against seasoned Greg Jackson (11-7-1, 3K0s), of North Philadelphia, in an eight-round welterweight bout on Friday, Jan. 31, at the Xcite Center inside Parx Casino. The eight-fight card, presented by Joe Hand Promotions, begins at 7:30 p.m.

This event is only for adults age 21 and older. Tickets priced at $50, $75 and $100 are on sale at Joe Hand Promotions (215-364-9000). Tickets also can be purchased from the Hold My Ticket Call Center at (1-877-466-3404) and at www.parxcasino.com

“I’m really thrilled and looking forward to boxing in the U.S.,” said Date. “It will be my first pro fight there, but America holds some fond memories for me as an Irish amateur. I won the World Golden Gloves there in 2013. I always wanted to go back and fight there again as a pro. I’ve met amazing people in Philly and we are taking it all to Parx Casino. We’re gonna have a load of Irish people bringing a really fun atmosphere. I’ll do my part to make it exciting. Don’t miss it!”

Always putting on a good show, Jackson has upset multiple fighters over his 19-fight career. He is coming off a three-fight win streak starting in 2018 against tough southpaw Juan Rodriguez, Jr. (13-5), of Hoboken, NJ. This will be Jackson’s first fight in the Philadelphia area since early in 2016 when he upset then-undefeated Gledwin Ortiz, of The Bronx, NY, at the 2300 Arena in South Philadelphia.

When asked about his upcoming fight against the Irishman, Jackson said: “Stop playing with me.” Jackson was intimating that he is not concerned about facing the undefeated Date. Jackson knows what he is capable of and isn’t buying into his opponent’s record.

In the junior middleweight semifinal, Isaiah Wise (7-2-2, 4K0s), of North Philadelphia, who always brings out a great crowd, will face Enver Halili (10-2, 3K0s), of The Bronx, NY.

Also featured Jan. 31 is former Parx Casino® employee, lightweight Jerome Conquest, of North Philadelphia.

The undercard will be announced shortly.

ABOUT PARX CASINO®

Parx Casino® is owned and operated by Greenwood Racing, Inc. and is the #1 revenue generating casino property in Pennsylvania. Parx Casino® is conveniently located 20 minutes north of center city Philadelphia, I-95 exit 37 or PA Turnpike exit 351 (westbound), exit 352 (eastbound) on Street Road in Bensalem Bucks County. Parx features over 200,000 square feet of gaming; 3,270 slot machines and 124 live table games; 48 poker tables in custom built private room; live racing & simulcast action; Xcite Center, 1,500 seat live entertainment venue, Liberty Bell Gastropub, farm-to-fork inspired menu; Oliveto, New York City style pizza and Italian Classics; Parx Grill, an upscale signature restaurant; Foodies quick service dining; Chickie’s & Pete’s Crab House and SportsBar; Jax sports bar; Circle Bar; Bambu Noodle House; The Lucky Cheese ~ gourmet grilled cheese eatery; XLounge, luxury casino lounge and complimentary parking for over 5,000 cars. In 2019, Parx Casino® launched sports betting with a $10M world-class sportsbook. Also in 2019, Parx launched online gaming and online sports betting. For more information on Parx Casino®, visit www.parxcasino.com.

Mikey Garcia and Jessie Vargas will clash in a Welterweight blockbuster at Ford Center at the Star in Frisco, Texas on Saturday February 29 live on DAZN in the US and on Sky Sports in the UK.
 
Former four-weight king Garcia (39-1 30 KOs) makes his debut on DAZN with new promoter Eddie Hearn in the same state of his last outing at AT&T Stadium in Arlington in March in a bid to win World honors at a fifth weight. 
 
Garcia, who turned 32 on Sunday, has now planted his flag in the ground at 147lbs by taking on Vargas, and the popular Californian will aim to make a big statement as he fights in Texas for the tenth time in an already glittering career. 
 
“I’m very happy to announce my next fight against Jessie on February 29 in Texas, live on DAZN,” said Garcia. “I believe our styles are going to make for a great battle and the fans are going to be in for a real treat. Tune in and don’t miss it”
 
Former two-weight ruler Vargas (29-2-2 11 KOs) has already tasted glory at Welterweight and is gunning for more glory starting with his clash against Garcia.
 
Vargas was the first fighter to headline a Matchroom Boxing USA show in America in his entertaining draw with Thomas Dulorme in Chicago in October 2018 and followed that with a clinical KO win over Humberto Soto in Mexico in April. The 30 year old, who held the WBO strap at 147lbs in 2016 after moving up from Super-Lightweight where he held the WBA crown, believes that the timing is perfect for him to come out on top of what he promises will be a fan-friendly showdown.
 
“It’s a big fight for fight fans, it’s one people have wanted for a long time now,” said Vargas.  “We are giving them what they want to see, it’s going to be a great showdown. 
 
“He’s a warrior and so am I, we both always go for the win and do anything possible to get it. I really believe in myself and my abilities, it’s one of the fights that will generate a lot of attention and it’s the perfect time to shine and show that I am here to stay – I need to show that I am going to be a World champion again and this is the perfect fight to show that.”
 
The huge showdown marks a return to Texas for Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing USA after staging on of the fights of the year in the unification sizzler between Maurice Hooker and Jose Ramirez in July, and the promoter is thrilled to be pitting Garcia and Vargas together in what promises to be an all-out war.
 
“Garcia vs. Vargas is a great fight and I’m so excited to bring this show to Frisco, Texas live on DAZN on February 29,” said Hearn. “The DAZN schedule is simply breathtaking and the value they are delivering to fight fans in quite incredible. 
 
“This fight has all the makings of a Barrera v Morales type war where the styles should gel brilliantly for a real classic. I want to thank Jerry Jones and his team for his support for this great event, get ready for a huge fight and huge card at Ford Center in February!”
 
“It gives us great pride to host another superior boxing match of this caliber with Mikey Garcia and Jessie Vargas,” said Dallas Cowboys Owner, President and General Manager Jerry Jones. “Showcasing two of the best Welterweight boxing superstars, our fans and the entire North Texas region will get to experience another incredible event here at Ford Center.”
 
“We are excited to have the February 29 showdown between Mikey Garcia and Jessie Vargas serve as the official start to another Fight Season on DAZN in 2020,” said Joseph Markowski, DAZN EVP, North America. “Both men are multi-division champions who have proven their ability to draw an audience as incredible ambassadors for the sport. We anticipate a tremendous promotion with Mikey and Jessie before they meet in Texas.”
 
An announcement on ticket on-sale dates and prices will be made next week.
 
ENDS
 
About The Star in Frisco
The Star is the 91-acre campus of the Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters and training facility in Frisco, Texas. Developed as a first-of-its-kind partnership between the City of Frisco, Frisco ISD and the Dallas Cowboys, The Star features Ford Center, a 12,000-seat stadium that hosts Frisco ISD football games, other world class sporting events such as top flight boxing matches, concerts and other events; Cowboys Fit, a 60,000 square-foot gym developed in partnership with leading fitness developer, Mark Mastrov; Cowboys Club, a members-only club where the country club meets the NFL; the Omni Frisco Hotel, a 16-floor, 300-room luxury hotel; Baylor Scott & White Sports Therapy & Research at The Star, a 300,000 square-foot center of excellence for sports medicine; Twelve, a 17-story, luxury residential tower in partnership between Pro Football Hall-of-Fame Quarterback #12 Roger Staubach, and Dallas-based developer and former Dallas Cowboys center, Robert Shaw; Formation, a dynamic coworking experience offering a collaborative work environment of open workspace, dedicated desks and private offices; as well as a variety of shopping, dining and nightlife options throughout The Star District. For more information on The Star, visit www.TheStarInFrisco.com.

Richard Riakporhe believes he is the “perfect man” to end London rival Lawrence Okolie’s unbeaten streak and hopes that a World Title will be on the line if they ever meet in the future. 

The unbeaten Walworth powerhouse will battle Chapel-en-le-Frith’s Jack Massey for the vacant British Cruiserweight title on tomorrow night’s JD NXTGEN show at York Hall, live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US.

‘The Sauce’ has cleaned up on the domestic scene, earning the British and Cruiserweight titles, and will now take a big step up in class to fight Krzysztof Glowacki for the vacant WBO belt, making a potential showdown with Riakporhe even bigger. 

“Things are heating up,” said Riakporhe. “If he wins that fight, that’s a World Champion, and there’s definitely going to be a domestic dust-up for that title.

“When I come in the ring, I’m not coming to play around, let’s put it that way. I feel like they wouldn’t want to take that fight with me, it’s too risky and too dangerous, but we’ll see. I’ll be surprised.

“The public want to see someone knock out Okolie and I am the perfect man for the job. The rest of the cruiserweights are not strong enough, they are not big enough, and they can’t punch.

“Let’s just say, if that fight got made, I’m turning off my phone and I’m going to live in the gym. My bed, my pillow in the gym. I believe, with me giving everything I’ve got, is enough to secure that win.”

Big wins over domestic rivals Sam Hyde, Tommy McCarthy and Chris Billam-Smith in 2018 and 2019 have pushed Riakporhe’s name up the rankings, but he is fully aware of the threat posed by Massey, who is also undefeated in 16 fights. 

“I think it’s going to be very explosive. Jack Massey is undefeated, you have to take that into consideration. He calls himself ‘One Smack’ Massey, so apparently he can punch.

“We’re going to see. I’m a puncher myself, so what more could we want? Two undefeated fighters in the York Hall, a nice iconic location, we’re going to go for it.

“He hasn’t experienced a fighter like me, the type of will and determination I have, and the type of power, so I think he’s going to be in for a real shock once he jumps in. It’s going to take a lot mentally to be able to stick in there with me, if he doesn’t get knocked out.”

Riakporhe vs. Massey tops a big night of action in the East End, Crystal Palace Light-Heavyweight Craig Richards (15-1, 8 KOs) takes on Newark’s Chad Sugden (11-1, 4 KOs), Luther Clay (12-1, 5 KOs) defends his WBO Global Welterweight title against Freddy Kiwitt (17-2, 10 KOs), Northampton’s Kieron Conway (13-1-1, 3 KOs) meets Dublin’s Craig O’Brien (11-1, 1 KO) in a 10 round Super-Welterweight contest, Watford Bantamweight Shannon Courtenay (4-0, 1 KO) looks to end the year in style, Sheffield Lightweight Donte Dixon aims to go 2-0, Light-Heavyweight Malik Kareem makes his pro debut alongside Dagenham Heavyweight Franklin Ignatius and Keighley Super-Bantamweight Ibrahim Nadim.

ATLANTA – December 18, 2019 – When Gervonta Davis and Yuriorkis Gamboa clash for the vacant WBA Lightweight World Championship on December 28 at the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta, they’ll be making history in a long-underserved boxing hotbed that has hosted monumental fights featuring Hall of Famers Muhammad Ali and Evander Holyfield.

“Just to be mentioned with those Hall of Famers is amazing,” said Davis. “I’m lost for words. It’s not only big for me, it’s big for boxing in the city and all the other fighters that have the opportunity to fight on the card.”

The Davis vs. Gamboa SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast features two world title bouts and will be the first world championship event in Atlanta in more than 20 years. Jean Pascal will defend his WBA Light Heavyweight World Championship against former two-division champion Badou Jack in the co-feature of the Premier Boxing Champions event.

Prior to December 28, the last world title fight in Atlanta was unified heavyweight world champion Evander Holyfield’s IBF and WBA defenses against Vaughn Bean on September 19, 1998. SHOWTIME televised that bout live from the since-demolished Georgia Dome where 41,357 fans in attendance saw the Atlanta resident floor Bean in the 10th round en route to a unanimous decision victory.

Despite the strong turnout and festive atmosphere for Holyfield vs. Bean, the Hall of Famer Holyfield fought just four times in Atlanta in his 57 professional bouts spanning nearly three decades. The city did host Holyfield’s first title fight, a bout that is widely considered the best cruiserweight fight in history and one of the last great 15 round fights. On July 12, 1986, Holyfield challenged WBA Cruiserweight Champion Dwight Muhammad Qawi in a back-and-forth bout that Holyfield won by split decision to capture his first world title.

While Holyfield vs. Qawi is considered the best fight in Atlanta boxing history, the most significant and biggest event in the city was Muhammad Ali’s comeback fight in 1970. Ali had been stripped of his heavyweight title and exiled from boxing after being controversially convicted of draft evasion in 1967. While his case was still under appeal in the U.S. Supreme Court, Ali received a license to fight in Georgia for his first bout in more than three-and-a-half years. Ali stopped Jerry Quarry in the third round on October 26, 1970 at City Auditorium in an event that would mark his triumphant return. Ali’s conviction was overturned the following year in June of 1971, just three months after the “Fight of the Century” with Joe Frazier.

While Georgia has been home to a number of recent world champions, none have fought in Atlanta as titlists. The late two-division world champion Vernon Forrest was born in nearby Augusta and lived in Atlanta, however he never fought as a champion in the state’s capital. Similarly, former two-division champion Paul Williams, also of Augusta, fought just once in Atlanta in 2001 before he became champion.

Davis, who is on-track to sell out his third consecutive venue of the year in three different cities, is hoping to make big time boxing in Atlanta a permanent fixture.

“The spotlight will be on Atlanta,” said Davis. “They haven’t had a big fight there in many years. So it’s a dream to bring big time boxing back just like I did in Baltimore. Atlanta welcomed me with open arms for so many years. I always knew I had a fan base and I always wanted to fight here. Now is the perfect time in my career for it to happen.

“I’m a fighter, but I’m also a fan. So I’m looking forward to it as much as everyone else. I’ll give it my all, I know Gamboa will give it his all. It’s going to be a great night on December 28.”

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale and available through Ticketmaster.com. Good tickets are still available. All tickets start at $54 and $104.
ABOUT DAVIS VS. GAMBOA
Davis vs. Gamboa will see two-time super featherweight champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis, Mayweather Promotions’ top rising star and boxing’s hottest attraction, as he takes on former unified world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa for the WBA Lightweight Title live on SHOWTIME Saturday, December 28 at the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The special holiday SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Jean Pascal battling two-division champion Badou Jack in the co-main event.

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ — Raging Babe’s Michelle Rosado is set to launch her flagship web series Boxing Moms, chronicling the pain and glory of the mothers of the sports world’s toughest athletes.

The series shines a light on the women behind some of the most influential boxers in America, along with stars in the making as they climb the ladder. Experience the roller coaster that is being the mother of a fighter — the triumph, sacrifice, blood and tears.

Boxing Moms will feature a behind-the-scenes look at the lives of these women as they balance the demands of motherhood and boxing. From smoothing over their kids’ relationship woes, to helping to keep the fighters on track and focused as they prepare for fights, these mothers inspire with their strength and poise, all while holding down jobs and caring for their families and their own relationships. Training camps turn into chaotic fight weeks, which turn into fight nights, where these mothers who have stood next to their sons through it all watch them step into the ring, putting their lives on the line in the name of entertainment and glory.

“Boxing moms juggle being counselors, punching bags, taxi drivers, nutritionists, life coaches, and business managers,” said the show’s Creator and Executive Producer, Michelle Rosado. “We hear a lot about self-care, but with what these women go through, there aren’t enough spa days or meditation hours in the world that can balance the volatility of their everyday lives.”

It’s a passion project for Rosado, who has long wanted to tell the stories of the mothers she’s met as a boxing promoter, and during her signature Raging Babe Brunches – inspired events that bring together the women of boxing.

“These stories need to be told,” said Rosado. Every time I put on an event, it’s the mothers who are making things happen for their sons. It’s the moms who hustle tickets, and act as de facto public relations reps. It’s the moms who are cooking for the fighters, and bear the brunt of their weight cut crankiness. Then they have to watch their baby climb into the ring, knowing that dying is one of the risks, and that it can happen in any fight.”

The series will be produced by award-winning sports agency, Break Media Group. “Boxing Moms will bring back some of my signature emotional storytelling that I’m recognized for,” said Break Media’s co-founder Jay Chaudhry, who will be spearheading the series as producer/director. “It will share stories from the heart, and really show what it’s like being in the shoes of some of the real influential women in boxing: mothers.”

Boxing Moms launches in early 2020, and will be available exclusively on YouTube and IGTV.

4 x 3 mins Super-Bantamweight
IBRAHIM NADIM 8st 10lbs 15oz v MISAEL ZELEDON 9st 2lbs 2oz
(Keighley)                                         (Spain)

4 x 3 mins Heavyweight
FRANKLIN IGNATIUS 16st 1lbs 3oz v HRVOJE BOZINOVIC 15st 2lbs 12oz
(London)                                                (Croatia)

18:00 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS FACEBOOK

4 x 3 mins Super-Middleweight contest
MALIK KAREEM 12st 2lbs 3oz v BEN THOMAS 12st 1lb 13oz
(London)                                        (Bolton)

6 x 2 mins Bantamweight contest
SHANNON COURTENAY 8st 11lbs 8oz v BUCHRA EL QUAISSI 8st 7lbs 4oz
(Watford)                                                       (Spain)

19:00LIVE ON SKY SPORTS

10 x 3 mins WBO Global Welterweight Title
LUTHER CLAY 10st 6lbs 10oz v FREDDY KIWITT 10st 6lbs 13oz
(Bracknell)                                    (London)

10 x 3 mins Super-Welterweight contest
KIERON CONWAY 11st 2lbs v CRAIG O’BRIEN 11st 4oz
(Northampton)                         (Dublin)

8 x 3 mins Light-Heavyweight contest
CRAIG RICHARDS 12st 6lbs 2oz v CHAD SUGDEN 12st 6lbs 9oz
(Crystal Palace)                               (Newark)

12 x 3 mins vacant British Cruiserweight Title
RICHARD RIAKPORHE 14st 2lbs 13oz v JACK MASSEY 14st 1lbs 12oz
(Walworth)                                                   (Derbyshire)

FLOAT

4 x 3 mins Super-Featherweight contest
DONTE DIXON 9st 4lbs 12oz v VLADISLAVS DAVIDAITIS 9st 5lbs 14oz
(Sheffield)                                   (Latvia)

ONTARIO, Calif. (December 17, 2019) – Sensational 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas takes on Mexico’s Rene Tellez Giron in an eight-round lightweight match as the opener of FOX PBC Fight Night live in primetime and on FOX Deportes this Saturday, December 21 at Toyota Arena in Ontario, California at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. ET.

Former champion Guillermo Rigondeaux was scheduled to take on Liborio Solis in the co-feature of the FOX PBC Fight Night card, but that match has been postponed until a later date.

Balderas vs. Giron will serve as the opening attraction to the show that is headlined by the highly anticipated rematch between WBC Super Welterweight Champion Tony Harrison and former champion Jermell Charlo that also features Efe Ajagba taking on Iago Kiladze in a 10-round heavyweight showdown in the co-feature.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at the Toyota Arena box office and Ticketmaster.com.

One of the most highly regarded prospects from the 2016 U.S. Olympic team, Balderas (9-0, 8 KOs) returns for an eight-round lightweight affair to close out 2019. The 23-year-old from Santa Maria, California has won his last five fights by stoppage, including three already in 2019. His most recent outing saw him stop Robert Frankel in July. He will be opposed by the 20-year-old Giron (13-1, 7 KOs), who fights out of Queretaro, Mexico and is looking to rebound from a decision loss to unbeaten Michel Rivera in June.

Preceding FOX PBC Fight Night, undefeated Filipino featherweight contender Jhack Tepora will battle rugged former title challenger Oscar Escandon in a 10-round bout in the co-feature of FS1 PBC Fight Night at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. ET. Hugo Centeno, Jr. will take on Juan Macias Montiel in a 10-round middleweight main event of the telecast that also features super welterweight prospect Raymond Guajardo facing Donnis Reed in a four-rounder in the televised opener.

Fighting out of Cebu City, Philippines, Tepora (23-0, 17 KOs) will enter the ring for the second time in the U.S. on December 21, after making a successful U.S. debut against Jose Luis Gallegos in June. The 24-year-old will take on Colombia’s Escandon (25-5, 17 KOs), who fights for the first time since a loss to Brandon Figueroa last year at the same arena in Ontario. Escandon is a former interim titlist at featherweight and challenged Gary Russell Jr. for the featherweight championship in 2017.

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, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

JUST FOUR DAYS AWAY from his titanic tussle with Daniel Dubois, Japanese Heavyweight Kyotaro Fujimoto today battled the British weather as he enjoyed ‘Christmas by the River’ market at London Bridge City. Unphased by the prospect of festive fisticuffs with power-puncher Daniel, confident Kyotaro spent the day sampling food from the bustling Christmas market, posing for photos beneath the iconic Tower Bridge and bizarrely facing-off with a sculpture of The Snowman. Bah Humbug, indeed. In London’s most picturesque seasonal market, Kyotaro indulged in a grilled chicken and rice dish, followed swiftly by an enormous hot dog with mustard. The hungry Heavyweight then issued a warning to his younger adversary. “Daniel Dubois, I’m going to knock you out!”, he thundered. Daniel ‘Dynamite’ Dubois, famed for the explosive power which inspired his moniker, is the bookies favourite for the scrap on Saturday. Boasting an impressive 13-0 record with 12 knockouts at just 22-years-old, Dubois is considered by many a future World Champion. And having recently despatched of Ghanaian Ebenezer Tetteh to claim the Commonwealth gold in September, ‘Dynamite’ is riding a run of form which would terrify most men. Kyotaro Fujimoto is not most men, however, and once he bought himself a novelty Union Jack hat from one of the stalls under the cover of Hays Galleria he promised to nab the victory “for Japan.” “I love Japan. I am very proud of being Japanese and I will win for them.” A man who clearly wears his heart on his sleeve, or even his head, Fujimoto recently unveiled a shocking new haircut that features the Japanese flag – the Hinomaru – shaven into the back. Posing for photos with passers-by, who were enthralled by his towering stature and eccentric look, Kyotaro admitted he liked to “stand out”. “I like colourful clothes, colourful hair… my outfit today was made especially for this match-up.” He even revealed that as a young child he took up combat sports because of this desire to stand out from the crowd. A former K1 World Champion in the sport of kickboxing, Kyotaro might look to some like a joker but when it comes to fighting he is anything but and he believes he and his team are well prepared for Dubois and will return to their native Japan victorious “Daniel is a good fighter, he is big and strong” he conceded, “but I am very experienced and I love to fight. I am ready to perform over twelve hard rounds.” He was coy when pressed on the fight he’d like next should he best Dubois, but did suggest that he would be happy to have a crack at any of the big names in the division. “Joshua, Wilder, Fury. These are the best fighters in the world and to fight any world champion would be amazing.” Before he can realise those dreams however, it’s Daniel Dubois at the Copper Box Arena on Saturday night with the WBC Silver and WBO International Titles on the line. Fujimoto’s #13 ranking with the WBA is also up for grabs and, with promoter Frank Warren keen to get Daniel ranked by all of the governing bodies, you’d expect the Japanese bruiser to be feeling under significant pressure. It didn’t show today though, as It was all smiles at the magnificent ‘Christmas by the River’ for Fujimoto and his team. —–
About Christmas by the River
Taking place at London Bridge City, Christmas by the River features 70+ market stalls selling boutique gifts and artisan produce and has a busy schedule of festive workshops. Stretching from The Pier to the Riverside Lodge bar at The Scoop, it’s one of London’s most picturesque markets. Overlooked by Tower Bridge and the iconic City skyline, it was voted the best Christmas market to impress a first date in 2018.

About London Bridge City
London Bridge City is a bustling riverside destination incorporating More London, Hay’s Galleria, Cottons Centre and No. 1 London Bridge. A changing programme of arts, entertainment and events, world class food and drink against a backdrop of great architecture. 
————  ABOUT THE SHOW Unbeaten Heavyweight sensation Daniel Dubois (13-0) looks to continue his path of destruction against Japan’s Kyotaro Fujimoto (21-1). The WBC Silver Heavyweight championship and the WBO International Heavyweight belts will be on the line.Liam Williams (21-2-1) faces American Alantez Fox (26-1-1) for the right to become number one in the rankings for the WBO world middleweight crown.Sunny Edwards (13-0) fights for the vacant British super-flyweight title against former amateur teammate Marcel Braithwaite (9-1), with Light Heavyweight prospect and Love Island star Tommy Fury (2-0) making his long awaited return to the boxing ring after winning the hearts of the nation on the popular ITV reality television show over the summer. Tickets from £40are now on sale viaSeetickets and viaTicketmaster

Ticket prices:

£250 – Hospitality
£150 – Floor
£100 – Floor
£75 – Floor
£50 – Lower Tier
£40 – Upper Tier  

Liborio Solis had a problem obtaining a visa in time and his fight this Saturday night with former world champion Guillermo Rigondeaux has been cancelled, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

A court in Nevada granted Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. a temporary injunction which will allow him to fight Daniel Jacobs on Friday night in Phoenix, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

Chavez was suspended by Nevada for refusing a drug test.

“It was very important for us, especially for Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., to get to this fight against Jacobs without any restriction, so it was very important that this temporary suspension be lifted,” Miguel Leff, Chavez’s lawyer told ESPN. “We will have the opportunity to collect and review the information and when we have everything ready, we will see the case in court, but that will be after Friday’s fight.”

“We don’t represent him, but they got an injunction and he’s no longer suspended,” Promoter Eddie Hearn said. “He’s been licensed to fight in Arizona for some time, but this completely clears up the matter and we look forward to a huge show with over 10,000 [in attendance] on Friday.”

“If someone wants to have a grudge, I mean, that won’t be the first time in boxing someone had a grudge,” Hearn said. “We’ve done everything completely by the book. The fact is, if Arizona didn’t license Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., of course, we wouldn’t put the fight on. That’s why we’ve had Gabriel Rosado on the card, signed to stand in, if there was an issue. But Chavez has fought his own battle. It had nothing to do with us. We don’t represent Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. We have a contract with him to take part in a fight with Daniel Jacobs, and if he’s licensed, we can’t just rip that contract up and say, ‘Sorry mate, we’re not going through with the fight.’ The fact is he’s gone to court and won in court, and he’s no longer suspended. We’re doing the fight, and we’re happy to do the fight.

“We’ve done nothing wrong. The argument was, ‘Oh, you’re going to do a fight with a suspended fighter in another state.’ I mean, now, that’s completely, factually incorrect. So in that respect, it puts the matter to bed from a Matchroom point of view. How Chavez deals with it from here, obviously he’s his own fighter, he’s got his own promoter, he’s got his own manager. That’s not really my business. All I know is he’s not suspended in any other state, and he’s licensed by Arizona. Onward we go.”

The Nevada commission declined to comment on the situation. Arizona commission chairman Scott Fletcher told ESPN in a statement that he was aware of the Nevada court decision to grant to the temporary restraining order and that “based on the court’s ruling we are looking forward to a great event this Friday at the Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix. Both athletes have tested negative [in prefight testing handled by Drug Free Sport] for all performance enhancing drugs, masking agents and illicit drugs and will be subject to additional tests.”

Las Vegas – UFC^® will kick off 2020 with a thrilling bout featuring former lightweight and featherweight champion Conor McGregor and perennial fan favorite Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone. Plus, former UFC lightweight champion and No. 11 ranked contender Anthony Pettis will return to 155 pounds against surging Diego Ferreira.

UFC^® 246: MCGREGOR vs. COWBOY will take place Saturday, Jan. 18 at T-Mobile Arena and will stream live nationally on Pay-Per-View, exclusively through ESPN+ in the U.S. at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT in both English and Spanish.

ESPN+ is the exclusive provider of all UFC Pay-Per-View events to fans in the U.S. as part of an agreement that continues through 2025.

As UFC^® 246: MCGREGOR vs. COWBOY approaches, fans will be able to purchase itonline at ESPNPlus.com/PPV or on the ESPN App on mobile and connected-TV devices. ESPN+ is available as an integrated part of the ESPN App on all major mobile and connected-TV devices and platforms, including Amazon Fire, Apple, Android, Chromecast, PS4, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, X Box One and more.

Preliminary fights will air nationally in English on ESPN and on ESPN Deportes (in Spanish) starting at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT with the early prelims simulcast on UFC Fight Pass and ESPN+ at 6:15 p.m. ET/3:15 p.m. PT.

Arguably the biggest star in mixed martial arts history, McGregor (21-4, fighting out of Dublin, Ireland) became the first fighter in UFC history to simultaneously hold championships in two divisions. Throughout his legendary career, he has earned spectacular victories over Eddie Alvarez, Nate Diaz, Jose Aldo, Chad Mendes and Dustin Poirier. McGregor now aims to take out another legend and prove he is still among the pound-for-pound best fighters on the planet.

The record holder for most wins and finishes in UFC history, Cerrone (36-13 1NC, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.) is no stranger to delivering iconic MMA moments. During his storied run, he has netted incredible finishes against Mike Perry, Matt Brown, Rick Story, Edson Barboza and Charles Oliveira. Cerrone now looks to continue building his legacy by securing another highlight-reel knockout in the biggest fight of his career.

A former UFC and WEC champion, Pettis (22-9, fighting out of Milwaukee, Wisc.) returns to lightweight after an exciting run at 170 pounds. Among the most dynamic finishers in MMA, he has earned sensational stoppage victories over Stephen Thompson, Gilbert Melendez, Benson Henderson and Charles Oliveira. He now has his sights set on another big win against one of the division’s toughest budding contenders.

A lightweight division mainstay since 2014, Ferreira (16-2, fighting out of Pharr, Texas by way of Terra Nova, Brazil) is currently riding a tremendous five-fight win streak. During this run, the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt has secured impressive victories against Mairbek Taisumov, Rustam Khabilov, Jared Gordon and Olivier Aubin-Mercier. Ferreira now hopes to add a former champion to his resume and crack the 155-pound top 15.

Additional bouts on the card include:

• No. 6 ranked women’s strawweight contender Claudia Gadelha (17-4, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) looks to continue building her momentum against rising No. 11 Alexa Grasso (11-3, fighting out of Guadalajara, Mexico)
• Former women’s bantamweight champion and No. 3 ranked contender Holly Holm (12-5, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.) takes on No. 6 Raquel Pennington (10-8, fighting out of Colorado Springs, Colo.) in a highly anticipated rematch
• Andre Fili (20-6, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif.) meets Sodiq Yusuff (10-1, fighting out of Bladensburg, Md. by way of Lagos, Nigeria) in an exciting battle of featherweight prospects
• In a pivotal clash of women’s flyweight contenders, No. 7 ranked Roxanne Modafferi (23-17, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) faces undefeated No. 9 Maycee Barber (7-0, fighting out of Milwaukee, Wisc.)
• Talented lightweights collide when Drew Dober (21-9 1NC, fighting out of Denver, Colo.) squares off with Nasrat Haqparast (11-2, fighting out of Hamburg, Germany)
• In a clash of heavyweight contenders, No. 12 ranked heavyweight contender Aleksei Oleinik (57-13-1, fighting out of Moscow, Russia) locks horns with Maurice Greene (8-4, fighting out of St Cloud, Minn.)
• Dana White’s Contender Series signee Aleksa Camur (5-0, fighting out of Broadview Heights, Ohio) debuts against Justin Ledet (9-2 1NC, fighting out of Rosharon, Texas)
• Chas Skelly (18-4, fighting out of Arlington, Texas) faces Dana White’s Contender Series veteran Grant Dawson (14-1, fighting out of Lee’s Summit, Mo.) in a featherweight bout
• Sabina Mazo (7-1, fighting out of Huntington Beach, Calif. by way of Medellin, Colombia) squares off with JJ Aldrich (8-3, fighting out of Westminster, Colo.)
• No. 7 ranked flyweight contender Tim Elliott (16-9-1, fighting out of Lee’s Summit, Mo.) takes on unbeaten No. 12 Askar Askarov (10-0-1, fighting out of Khasavyurt, Dagestan, Russia)
• Brian Kelleher (19-10, fighting out of Selden, N.Y.) meets newcomer Ode Osbourne (7-2 1NC, fighting out of Milwaukee, Wisc.)

For the latest information on additional bouts for this event, please visit www.ufc.com. All bouts live and subject to change.

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

Tickets for UFC^® 246: MCGREGOR vs. COWBOY go on sale Friday, Dec. 20 at 10 a.m. PT. Tickets are available for purchase online at www.axs.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person.

UFC Fight Club^® members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets Wednesday, Dec. 18 at 10 a.m. PT via the website www.ufcfightclub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thursday, Dec. 19 starting at 10 a.m. PT. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

###

About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 300 million fans and 75 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to nearly one billion TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 65 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS^®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC was acquired in 2016 by global entertainment, sports and content company Endeavor, along with strategic investors Silver Lake Partners and KKR. UFC is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat and Instagram: @UFC.

About T-Mobile Arena

T-Mobile Arena, the 20,000-seat venue located on the Las Vegas Strip between Park MGM and New York-New York, opened April 6, 2016. The arena hosts more than 100 events annually including major headline entertainment, awards shows, UFC, boxing, basketball and other sporting events, family shows and special events. T-Mobile Arena also is the home of the Vegas Golden Knights, a National Hockey League expansion team and the city’s first professional sports team. The city’s newest landmark, recently named the No. 1 venue on Billboard Magazine’s 2018 Arena Power List as well as the “Best New Major Concert Venue” by Pollstar Magazine, features 50 luxury suites, more than two dozen private loge boxes, complete broadcast facilities, and other specially designed exclusive hospitality offerings and fan amenities destined to create a guest experience second to none. Toshiba Plaza, an adjacent two-acre outdoor entertainment space, features performance stages, a variety of video screens and other interactive content and display areas. Industry-leading architect Populous designed T-Mobile Arena to meet the U.S. Green Building Council’s standards for LEED® Gold Certification. T-Mobile Arena is a privately funded joint venture between AEG and MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM). For more information, visit T-MobileArena.com or follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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+ grew quickly to 3.5 million subscribers in 18 months, offering fans thousands of live events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, as well as premium editorial content.

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

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

About ESPN

ESPN, the world’s leading sports entertainment enterprise features more than 50 assets – nine U.S. television networks, ESPN Radio, ESPN.com, ESPN International, ESPN The Magazine and more.  ESPN is 80 percent owned by ABC, Inc. (an indirect subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company) and 20 percent by Hearst.

ONTARIO, Calif. (December 17, 2019) – A jam-packed lineup of undercard attractions will give fans excitement from beginning to end on Saturday, December 21 as part of the Premier Boxing Champions event headlined by the highly anticipated rematch between WBC Super Welterweight Champion Tony Harrison and former champion Jermell Charlo all from Toyota Arena in Ontario, California.

The Harrison vs. Charlo rematch serves as the main event of FOX PBC Fight night beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. Preceding the fights on FOX, FS1 PBC Fight Night will feature a tripleheader of action beginning at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT and headlined by top middleweight contender Hugo Centeno Jr. battling Juan Macías Montiel.

Non-televised undercard attractions will feature Andre Dirrell in a 10-round super middleweight bout against the Dominican Republic’s Juan Ubaldo Cabrera and2016 Lithuanian Olympian Eimantas Stanionis in a welterweight fight against the Dominican Republic’s Julio César Sanchez.

The action will also see Detroit prospect Anthony Flagg (4-0, 3 KOs) battling Tyler, Texas-native Jamarcus Warren (2-1-1, 1 KO) in a six-round super middleweight affair, Dallas heavyweight Adrian Taylor (10-1, 4 KOs) in a six-round fight against Tijuana, Mexico’s German Pérez (11-6-3, 3 KOs) and Russian prospect Petr Khamukov (4-0, 1 KO) taking on Massachusetts native Maceo Crowder (2-3, 1 KO) in a six-round middleweight bout. Bantamweight José Balderas (8-0, 2 KOs), the brother of Karlos Balderas, will battle in a six round match.

Rounding out the lineup is undefeated super lightweight prospect Justin Cardona in a four-round fight against Liberia’s Archie Weah, Glendale, California’s Yovani Rodarte battling Mexico’s Eduardo Reyes in a six-round lightweight affair and unbeaten Oak Hills, California native Jerry Pérez in a six-round featherweight affair against New Jersey’s Tyrone Luckey.

An accomplished veteran contender in the 168-pound division, Dirrell (33-2-1, 24 KOs) returns to the ring for the first time since March 2018, when he lost his interim super middleweight title in a slugfest against Jose Uzcategui. The Flint, Michigan native and brother of two-time champion Anthony, Dirrell won a bronze medal at the 2004 Olympics and lost narrow decisions in world title fights against Carl Froch and James DeGale. He will be opposed by Cabrera (24-2, 16 KOs), who fights out of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and was unbeaten in his first 24 pro fights.

A native of Lithuania who now live and trains in the U.S., Stanionis (9-0, 6 KOs) is one of the most promising fighters to come out of the 2016 Olympic games. The 25-year-old has picked up two victories so far this year and will look to close out the year against the 26-year-old Sanchez(11-2, 6 KOs), who was born in the Dominican Republic but now fights out of New York.

#

ABOUT HARRISON VS. CHARLO II
Harrison vs. Charlo II will see the highly anticipated rematch between WBC Super Welterweight Champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison and former world champion Jermell Charlo headlining the FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, December 21 from Toyota Arena in Ontario, California with televised coverage beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at the Toyota Arena box office and Ticketmaster.com.

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, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

Former four-division world champion Roman Gonzalez will be back in action after a 15-month layoff on December 23rd in Japan against Diomel Diocos, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com

“We are very happy to be fighting in Roman’s second home of Japan. He feels excited to be in the country of his father figure, Mr. Akihiko Honda of Teiken Promotions,” Carlos Blandon, Gonzalez’s manager, told ESPN on Tuesday. “We felt this tuneup fight is necessary in order to land a title shot next year. But nevertheless, we are very focused on the challenge ahead this Dec. 23.”

“Roman is highly motivated. He is looking sharp and his knee is back to normal or even better,” Blandon said. “Roman is eager to showcase that his knee is in great condition after surgery and that with God’s help he will be the [junior bantamweight] king once again. We understand that it takes one step at a time, but he is more than ready.”

LAS VEGAS – UFC® is set to make its debut at Santa Ana Star Center in Rio Rancho, N.M. with a critical rematch in the light heavyweight division, No. 5 ranked Corey Anderson and No. 6 Jan Blachowicz each look to secure the first title shot of their UFC careers.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT ON ESPN+®: ANDERSON vs. BLACHOWICZ will stream live from Santa Ana Star Center with all fights carried exclusively on ESPN+ in English and Spanish. The main card begins at 8 p.m. ET on Saturday, February 15, with the prelims kicking off at 5 p.m. ET. Doors open at 4 p.m. ET.

Currently riding the longest winning streak of his UFC career, Anderson (14-4, fighting out of Robbinsville, N.J.) aims to prove that his first win over Blachowicz was no fluke. The winner of The Ultimate Fighter season 19, Anderson has been a perennial contender for much of his career and has recently netted impressive victories over Glover Teixeira, Ilir Latifi and Johnny Walker. He now looks to make it five wins in a row and finally earn his shot at UFC gold.

Coming off the two biggest victories of his UFC career, Blachowicz (25-8, fighting out of Warsaw, Poland) intends to avenge his 2015 loss to Anderson in impressive fashion. One of the most successful Polish athletes in UFC history, Blachowicz holds wins over Jacare Souza, Luke Rockhold, Jimi Manuwa and Jared Cannonier. Now, he aims to cement himself as the clear No. 1 contender in the division by snapping Anderson’s win streak.

Announced bouts on the card include:

Fan favorite Diego Sanchez (31-12, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.) meets Michel Pereira (23-10, fighting out of Tucuma, Para, Brazil) in a welterweight bout guaranteed to deliver action
No. 7 ranked flyweight contender Rogerio Bontorin (16-1, fighting out of State of Paraná, Brazil) battles hometown hero Ray Borg (12-4, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.)
Women’s featherweight winner of The Ultimate Fighter: Heavy Hitters and No. 12 ranked bantamweight Macy Chiasson (6-1, fighting out of Dallas, Texas) takes on former UFC flyweight champion Nicco Montano (5-3, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.)
Top women’s flyweight contenders clash as No. 11 Montana De La Rosa (10-5, fighting out of Fort Worth, Texas) and No. 13 Mara Romero Borella (13-6, fighting out of Coconut Creek, Fla.) each look to break into the top 10
No. 14 ranked flyweight and Jiu Jitsu black belt Mark De La Rosa (11-3, fighting out of Fort Worth, Texas) meets No. 15 ranked Raulian Paiva (18-3, fighting out State of Amapá, Brazil)
Devin Clark (10-4, fighting out of Sioux Falls, S.D.) looks to bounce back into the win column against Gadzhimurad Antigulov (20-6, fighting out of Makhachkala, Russia) in a light heavyweight bout

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SAN ANTONIO. (Dec. 17, 2019): Franchon “The Heavy-Hitting Diva” Crews-Dezurn
(6-1, 2 KOs) will look to settle unfinished business as she defends her WBC and WBO Super Middleweight World Titles against WBC Heavyweight World Champion Alejandra “La Tigre” Jimenez (12-0-1, 9 KOs) in the 10-round co-main event of Munguia vs. O’Sullivan. The event will take place Saturday, Jan. 11 at The Alamodome in San Antonio, TX and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN.

This fight was initially going to take place in September 2019, but due to visa issues, Jimenez was unable to participate. Now, in a fight presented by Golden Boy in association with Cancun Boxing, they’ll have a chance to finally face each other in the ring in what will be a historic battle for women’s boxing.

Crews-Dezurn is a native of Virginia Beach, VA. and currently lives in Baltimore, MD. She is a former amateur standout who competed at national and international levels. In 2016, Crews-Dezurn made her professional debut against two-time Olympian Claressa “T-Rex” Shields, who was also debuting at the time. Though she lost a tough and close battle, Crews-Dezurn would score three more victories before capturing the WBC Super Middleweight World Title against Maricela “La Diva” Cornejo. Crews-Dezurn is coming off two wins as an official Golden Boy fighter, first against Kayla Williams and once more against Cornejo to also capture the WBO Super Middleweight World Title.

“As a champion you have responsibilities, and Jimenez is my mandatory, so I have to handle my responsibilities as WBC Champion,” said Franchon Crews-Dezurn. “Jimenez is disrespectful, a bully, entitled, and I don’t have respect for this person after trying to intimidate me at the 57th WBC convention.”

“I’m the champion of the world, and I’m good in any hood,” Crews-Dezurn continued. “Jimenez hates that I’m feminine and constantly tries to cyberbully me. Jimenez even gets the coaches and her girlfriend involved so much so I blocked them. Jimenez is too emotional for me, and I can’t wait to look in Jimenez eye and soul. I hope Jimenez keeps that same energy Jan. 11 because I will show that I am the dominant alpha female.”

“Boxing rivalries are not only good for the sport, they’re also really fun to watch,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. “Crews-Dezurn and Jimenez have developed such a rivalry that Jimenez even confronted Crews-Dezurn during the WBC convention in Cancun, Mexico. This tells us all that they cannot wait to get their hands on each other. And, as an added touch, this bout is also important because they’ll be fighting for two world titles. Golden Boy is a pioneer in women’s boxing, so we can’t wait to host this fight on Jan. 11.”

Jimenez is a native of Mexico City, Mexico who, after a short amateur career, debuted as a professional in October 2014. After only five bouts, she captured the WBC Heavyweight World Title with a majority decision victory against Martha Salazar. Since then, she has remained undefeated and has even dropped down in weight in order to become a two-division world champion.

Said Alejandra Jimenez, “Aside from being a new challenge, this fight means that I will continue making history by being crowned a world champion in a new division in a way that nobody has ever done. The fact that I’ll now be fighting for two titles is more motivation. This opportunity comes at the perfect moment in my life and career. Everything happens for a reason and when it’s supposed to happen. This is my moment.”

“The effort in my work and the team that supports me make me feel sure of my strengths as boxer,” Jimenez continued. “That the current champion has put so many ‘buts’ regarding this fight is an indication that I am on the right track and that all my work is reflected. It also shows that she knows I will not be an easy opponent and that I will do everything to get those titles.”

“This is a fight that will surely make history,” said Pepe Gomez of Cancun Boxing. “All of Mexico is already beginning to savor it, and it’s not for nothing. They have a strong rivalry, and we are sure that we will bring the belt back to Mexico. Crews-Dezurn has defended her world title with much pride, but it will be interesting to see her against the Aztec challenger in Alejandra ‘La Tigre’ Jimenez. They are two professional fighters who will come very well prepared this January. It’s a start to the year that is filled with anticipation, and from there on women’s boxing in the super middleweight division will occupy a special place in the marvelous world of boxing.”

The undercard for this event will be stacked with contenders and prospect from all over Texas.

Hector “El Finito” Tanajara Jr. (18-0, 5 KOs) of San Antonio, Texas will defend his USNBC Lightweight Title in a 10-round fight.

Joshua “The Professor” Franco (15-1-2, 7 KOs) of San Antonio, Texas will make his official debut at 115 pounds in a 10-round clash.

Travell Mazion (16-0, 12 KOs) of Austin, Texas will fight against Fernando Castañeda
(26-13-1, 17 KOs) of Aguas Caliente, Mexico in a 10-round super welterweight fight.

Mihai Nistor (1-0, 1 KO) of Bucharest, Romania will participate in a six-round heavyweight fight.

Alex Rincon (7-0, 6 KOs) of Caralton, Texas will fight in an eight-round super welterweight bout.

Tristan Kalkreuth (3-0, 2 KOs) of Duncanville, Texas will fight against Blake Lacaze (4-7-1, 2 KOs)of Monroe, Louisiana in a four-round light heavyweight fight.

Hector Valdez (11-0, 7 KOs) of Dallas, Texas will participate in a six-round super bantamweight bout.

James Wilkins (8-1, 6 KOs) of Staten Island, New York will fight in a six-round super featherweight fight.

Opponents for the undercard will be announced shortly.

Munguia vs. O’Sullivan is a 12-round middleweight fight presented by Golden Boy in association with Zanfer Promotions and Murphy’s Boxing. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle.” The event will take place Saturday, Jan. 11 at The Alamodome in San Antonio, TX and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN.

Tickets for Munguia vs. O’Sullivan are on sale and are priced at $25, $40, $65, $100, and $200, plus applicable taxes, fees and services charges. Tickets can be purchased online at ticketsmaster.com and by phone at 1-800-745-3000. Tickets will also be available at The Alamodome box office, which is open Monday – Friday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm C.T. and Saturdays and Sundays when events are taking place at The Alamodome.

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

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NEW YORK – December 17, 2019 – Undefeated welterweight sensation Jaron Ennis will make his 2020 debut against hard-hitting Bakhtiyar Eyubov on Friday, January 10 live on SHOWTIME from Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City.

The 22-year-old Ennis (24-0, 22 KOs) will take on Kazakhstan’s Eyubov (14-1-1, 12 KOs) just an hour away from his hometown of Philadelphia in the 10-round co-main event of a SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION tripleheader that begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. 

Two women’s blockbusters will bookend the welterweight bout.  Claressa Shields (9-0, 2 KOs) will take on Ivana Habazin (20-3, 7 KOs) for the WBC and WBO 154-pound World Championships in a long-anticipated main event.  In the telecast opener, WBA Super Middleweight Champion Alicia Napoleon Espinosa (12-1, 7 KOs) meets IBF Champion Elin Cederroos (7-0, 4 KOs) in a 168-pound world title unification.

The event is promoted by Salita Promotions in association with T-REX BOXING PROMOTIONS. The Napoleon-Espinosa vs Cederroos fight is promoted by Salita Promotions in association with DiBella Entertainment.

In Eyubov, Ennis will take on his toughest test to date as he looks to continue his rapid ascension in one boxing’s deepest divisions.  The switch-hitter has scored 14 consecutive knockouts as has his level opposition has steadily increased since turning professional in 2016.  He returned from a nine-month layoff in August of 2019 with a first round TKO of Franklin Mamani and followed that up with a third round TKO of Demian Fernandez on October 5.  Against Fernandez, the come-forward and aggressive Ennis landed 43 percent of his power shots as he switched from orthodox to southpaw in a clinical performance in the main event of SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION.  

Widely regarded as one of the top prospects in boxing, Ennis had two emphatic knockout victories on ShoBox: The New Generation in 2018.  The Philadelphia native, who owns 10 first round knockouts and has yet to be pushed past the sixth round, was a standout amateur who won the 2015 National Golden Gloves was ranked as the No. 1 amateur at 141 pounds before turning pro.

“I’m coming to make another statement to the welterweight division and the world,” said Ennis.  “I’m going to let them know that I’m here and that 2020 will be my year.  I’m the future of this division and January 10 is the next step in proving that.” 

The 33-year-old Eyubov, from Aktobe, Kazakhstan and currently based in Brooklyn, N.Y., is known for his relentlessly aggressive fighting style. Quickly making a name for himself in the welterweight division, Eyubov tore through his first ten professional opponents, knocking them all out within the first three rounds including a third-round stoppage of Jared Robinson on ShoBox in 2016. Eyubov also owns impressive wins over Nicholas Givan (21-2-1) and Karim Mayfield (21-5-1) but is winless in his last two outings, including a majority draw with Jose Luis Rodriguez and a unanimous decision loss to undefeated Brian Ceballo. With just 16 professional fights to his name since moving on from the amateur ranks in 2012, Eyubov is eager to turn heads with a career-defining win over the highly regarded Ennis.

“On January 10, Jaron Ennis is going to be in the hardest fight of his life,” Eyubov said.  “He has never faced anyone with my strength, skills and will to win.  Bakha Bullet will shoot to do damage in Atlantic City and hand Ennis his first loss.” 

“The Ennis vs. Eyubov fight is a classic crossroads fight and a must-win for both fighters,” said Eyubov promoter Dmitriy Salita.  “It’s a big test for Ennis, who is a slick, skilled boxer, and a potentially career-changing opportunity for the aggressive, powerful and formerly world-rated contender in Eyubov.  We expect fireworks on January 10^th.

The previously announced WBA Super Lightweight World Title Eliminator between Shohjahon Ergashev and Keith Hunter has been postponed after Hunter injured his right hand during training.  A new date and opponent for Ergashev will be announced in the coming days.

An industry leading production team and announce crew will deliver all the sights, sounds and drama from Atlantic City. Veteran broadcaster Brian Custer will host the telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo will call the action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and former two-division world champion Paulie Malignaggi at ringside. Three Hall of Famers round out the SHOWTIME announce team – Emmy® award winning reporter Jim Gray, unofficial ringside scorer Steve Farhood and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. The Executive Producer of SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION is David Dinkins, Jr. with Bob Dunphy directing. The telecast will be available in Spanish via Secondary Audio Programing (SAP) with Alejandro Luna and former world champion Raul Marquez calling the action.

Daniel Jacobs says he’s a happy fighter now he’s campaigning at Super-Middleweight as he makes his debut at 168lbs against Julio Cesar Chavez Jr at the Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix, Arizona on Friday night, live on DAZN on US and Sky Sports in the UK.
TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW STARTING FROM $25 (plus booking fee)
 Jacobs (35-3 29 KOs) closed the book on his time at Middleweight in May with a unification clash with Canelo Alvarez in Las Vegas, and the two-time World ruler now embarks on his quest to become a two-weight World champion.

The ‘Miracle Man’ begins that journey in Phoenix against Chavez Jr (51-3-1 33 KOs) the Mexican star that is also hunting two-weight World honors, but Jacobs has warned the 168lbs division that the extra weight moving up has made a huge difference to his mood in camp.

“It’s been amazing,” said Jacobs. “I’ve been able to be genuinely happy, to focus only on training and focus only on my skillset and not on the idea of cutting 10 to 15 pounds before the weigh in. So, it’s a big deal for me and I’m happy and I’m looking forward to showing everyone in the world that it wasn’t an excuse last time around. 

“It was the actual fact of me cutting the weight and that would make a difference in the previous fights that I’ve been having. So now you’re going to see, in my opinion, a better version of myself and I look forward to that.

“I’m able to be a lot freer when it comes to putting more food and necessary foods in my body. I don’t have to limit myself and most importantly, I don’t have to go through that weight cut process that always drains me the 48 hours before the fight. 

“I think with this last fight; it really took a toll on me. Obviously, we know the stipulations. I was in a contract with my last bout, so that was a clear indication for me that maybe I need to try and test the waters in 168 pounds just to give myself an opportunity to be myself, to be 100 per cent and camp has been beautiful.”
Chavez Jr and Jacobs clash on a huge night of action in Phoenix as Julio Cesar Martinez takes on Cristofer Rosales for the vacant WBC World Flyweight title. The Welterweight division is in focus on the card as Maurice Hooker starts his quest to become a two-weight World champion as he moves up to Welterweight and takes on Uriel Perez on his bow at 147lbs. Josh Kelly is one of the stand out talents in the Welterweight division, and he meets Winston Campos as he closes in on a clash with European champion David Avanesyan at the start of 2020. Olympic gold medal man Daniyar Yeleussinov is another Welterweight star on the card and he looks to impress in his ninth pro outing against Alan Sanchez. Gabriel Rosado will have a keen eye on the main event as he fights for the 38th time as a pro against Humberto Ochoa while Brit star Liam Smith continues his charge to a second World title reign in a ten round clash with Roberto Garcia. Three of Matchroom Boxing USA’s bright young things complete the stacked card in Nikita Ababiy, Reshat Mati and Raymond Ford.