LAS VEGAS, NV (December 13, 2019) – WBC Lightweight World Champion, Devin “The Dream” Haney (24-0, 15 KOs), is recovering from a successful surgery to his injured right shoulder. The procedure was performed this week in Los Angeles by world renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. Neal S. ElAttrache.

Haney suffered a microscopic tear of his right labrum on November 9, 2019, during his WBC title defense against Alfredo Santiago. The tear required immediate surgery. Now in recovery, Haney is focused on getting the proper rest and rehabilitation needed to make a full recovery.

“In my last fight with Alfredo Santiago, my right shoulder came completely out of the socket in the 12th round,” said Devin. Haney. “I stayed focused and showed the grit of a true champion. I’m very happy with my performance considering the injury. I’m the youngest world champion in the last 23 years. Unfortunately, my injury required that I have surgery, but I’m happy I went with Dr. Neal ElAttrache, who in my opinion is the best surgeon in the world with these types of injuries. His resumé speaks for itself and the procedure was a success. Right now, I’m all about healing so I can get back in the ring as soon as possible.”

Haney’s surgeon Dr. ElAttrache has performed procedures on other distinguished athletes such as Tom Brady. ElAttrache serves as team physician for the LA Dodgers and LA Rams. In addition, he serves as an orthopaedic consultant for the LA Lakers, LA Kings, LA Angels and the Anaheim Ducks.

Devin, who was expected to defend his WBC world title against mandatory challenger and the #1 ranked contender, Javier Fortuna, is expected to be out of the ring for at least six months. Upon a healthy recover, Haney plans to solidify his position as the best young fighter in boxing.

“As soon as I feel I’m ready to get back in the ring, I’m coming for everyone,” continued Haney. Lomachenko, Lopez, Commey…who ever, I’m coming for all the belts! I’ll be back stronger than ever, that you can bet.”

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About Devin Haney Promotions:
Based in California, Devin Haney Promotions (DHP) is a first-class promotional company headed by boxing phenom, Devin “The Dream” Haney. The company was founded in September of 2018. Devin Haney at 19-yrs old became the youngest active fighter/promoter in boxing history. DHP has a commitment to bring fans the most exciting shows with some of the best fighters in the world. Globally, DHP is respected as a premier promoter in boxing.

NEW YORK (December 13, 2019)- Tonight at the Massmutual Center in Springfield, Massachusetts, Split-T Management cruiserweight “Mighty” Joe Jones takes on Richard Rivera in the main event of a Star Boxing show.

Jones of Leesburg, Virginia has a record of 11-1 with eight knockouts, and the 24 year-old is riding a two fight win streak.

Jones is a six-year professional, who has a 1st round stoppage over previously undefeated Montez Brown (8-0). In his last bout, Jones won a unanimous decision over Twon Smith on June 29th in Laurel, Maryland.

Rivera of Hartford has a record of 15-0 with 12 knockouts. The 29 year-old, has been on a roll since turning professional in 2017 with notable wins over Kevin Cobbs (10-2), Jaime Solorio (12-3-2) and Brian Howard (14-2). Rivera is coming off a 1st round stoppage over Juan Zapata on November 1st in Daytona Beach, Florida.

Jones was 197 lbs. at Thursday’s weigh-in. Rivera was 191.5.

The fight can be seen live in the New England area on NESN at 9 PM ET or outside the New England region on FITE.TV PPV .

Also tonight, Split-T Management’s Marquis Moore battles Jeff Terrazas in Golden, Colorado in a super middleweight bout.

Moore of Colorado Springs is 9-0 with five knockouts.

The 28 year-old Moore was one of the top amateur boxers in the country as he compiled a record of 140-15, highlighted by representing Team USA in many international events including winning the World National Golden Gloves as well as winning the gold medal in numerous national championships including the 2012 Armed Forces Championships, 2013 and 2014 National Golden Gloves, 2015 National PAL and US Olympic Trials Qualifiers.

LAS VEGAS (December 13, 2019) – Veteran contender Lionell “Lonnie B” Thompson previewed his upcoming showdown from his training camp as he prepares to take on former champion Jose Uzcategui live on SHOWTIME Saturday, December 28 from the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta.

The Premier Boxing Champions event is headlined by boxing’s hottest attraction Gervonta “Tank” Davis as he moves up in weight to take on former unified champion Yuriorkis Gamboa for the vacant WBA Lightweight Title.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and also features Jean Pascal defending his WBA Light Heavyweight Title against two-division champion Badou Jack in the co-feature.

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

For Thompson, it will be his debut fight at 168 pounds, after fighting in the light heavyweight division throughout his career. Here is what Thompson had to say about his new division, his December 28 opponent and more, from training camp at Mayweather Boxing Club in Las Vegas:

LIONELL THOMPSON

“I’m not worried about his power. I’ve been in there with big punchers my whole career. I’m just ready to perform. I’m not worried about what he can do. I’m just concentrating on what I can do. Everyone can punch in the pros. One punch from anyone can hurt you. I’m fully focused on being excellent on December 28.

“We’re working hard. It’s a new weight class for me and that’s motivating me even more to be my best. This win is going to do wonders for my life and career. I believe I’ll be victorious in Atlanta. Don’t blink.

“All of my fights are important to me. Uzcategui is just another fighter. I don’t focus on what the perception of Uzcategui is. People say he’s a big puncher, but how do you know if he’s never hit you before? It’s someone’s job to pump their fighter up, but I’m only focused on what I can control.

“This is a huge opportunity for me and I’m definitely thankful to the Mayweather Promotions team for putting me in this position. When I saw that Uzcategui was looking for an opponent, I told (Mayweather Promotions CEO) Leonard Ellerbe that I wanted to fight him and he made it happen.

“I know it’s rare for someone at my age to go down in weight. I feel fresh for my age though. I’m making weight the right way and the healthy way. I think with my training camp and the challenge that Uzcategui presents, it will bring out the best of me on December 28.”

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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, plus former champion Jose Uzcategui battles Lionell Thompson in super middleweight action that kicks off the telecast.

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

ARCHIE SHARP MAKES a third defence of his WBO European super featherweight title when he takes on the unbeaten Artjoms Ramlavs at the Copper Box Arena on December 21.
 
In what is a strong addition to an already stellar BT Sport card – ‘Sharpshooter’ Sharp will be looking to solidify his position at the forefront of the 130-pound brigade. It is one of five title fights currently scheduled on the bumper bill that also includes the heavyweight collision between Daniel Dubois and Kyotaro Fujimoto for the WBO International and WBC Silver titles, Liam Williams going up against the American Alantez Fox for the right to fight for the WBO world middleweight title, Sunny Edwards and Marcel Braithwaite battling it out for the British super flyweight title, as well as the return to ring duties of Tommy Fury and title action for super welterweight contender Troy Williamson.
 
Sharp, 17-0 (9KOs) is on a roll since parting the previously unbeaten champion Lyon Woodstock from his belt in Leicester in October of last year. Injury prevented immediate title progression before he got back in the swing with a second round stoppage of Sergio Gonzalez at Wembley in April and he proceeded to make a first defence against the tough Scot Jordan McCorry at the o2 Arena in July, where he recorded a convincing points victory.
 
His most recent assignment came at the Royal Albert Hall in September, where he again defended his WBO strap, this time against the unpredictable Irishman Declan Geraghty. The Dubliner presented early problems to the Welling man before a peach of a punch dispatched by the 24-year-old spectacularly ended Geraghty’s night in the fourth round.
 
It was an emphatic statement delivered by Sharp, who is jostling for position in the super featherweight pecking order along with Commonwealth champion Zelfa Barrett and former British ruler Sam Bowen, who recently dropped a decision to Belfast man Anthony Cacace.
 
Ramlavs from Riga will enter into unfamiliar territory on the night of ‘The Fight Before Christmas’ at the Copper Box.
 
Known as ‘Supersonic’, the 30-year-old has not previously fought outside his native Latvia in a career that has spanned 11 professional fights, with six of his wins coming via KO.
 
The 5ft 7″ southpaw and the champion Sharp do have one opponent in common in the Nicaraguan Gonzalez, who Ramlavs fought in 2018 and recorded a points victory.
 
“He is a southpaw, 11-0 with six stoppages and I see he had a bit of amateur pedigree,” said Sharp on his forthcoming mission. “So we have got another unbeaten fighter to come and take me on and he is a little bit shorter than Declan (last opponent, Geraghty) and that will probably work a little bit in my favour.
 
“I think what is happening is he is tough and game, but I don’t think his ability is up there with the other boys I have fought and he will come to work and have a right go.
 
“Facing an unbeaten fighter brings another dynamic because every time he has showed up before he has won. He’s now got a shot at the WBO European title so we will see how he turns up.
 
“I’ve just got to make sure I am in tip-top shape and able to adapt to whatever he brings on December 21. It is another lively one and I think they are all going to be that now.”

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

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

MEXICALI, MEXICO. (Dec. 12, 2019): Diego De La Hoya (21-1, 10 KOs) and Renson Robles (16-6, 9 KOs) hosted their final press conference today at the Lobby Bar at Hotel Araiza ahead of their 10-round fight. The event will take place Saturday, Dec. 14 at The Auditorio del Estado in Mexicali, Mexico and will be streamed live on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page.

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

DIEGO DE LA HOYA, Featherweight Contender:

“I’m happy and motivated for this fight in Mexicali. I’m happy to go to war and score a victory for everyone here in my hometown. I’ve worked hard for my career, and I’m going to fight hard this Saturday.”

RENSON ROBLES, Featherweight Contender:

“I’ve been preparing a lot in Venezuela. I know it’s going to be a very hard fight, but no matter what I’m here to win.”

ROGER GUTIERREZ, Super Featherweight Contender:

“I’m prepared 100%. I love being here and I love Mexicans because they mean war and I’m ready for war.”

ANDRES TAPIA, Super Featherweight Contender:

“I’m doing a good job of keeping my confidence high. You don’t waste these types of opportunities. Roger is a great fighter and I’m going to fight hard and that trophy is staying in Mexicali.”

WILLIAM ZEPEDA, Lightweight Contender:

“I’m so honored to be here. I’m thankful for my Dad’s support and I’m excited to see all these fighters here. I’m ready to give it my all!”

JAMPIER OSES, Lightweight Contender:

“Thank you for the support. Thank you for the opportunity and we’re here for victory only. We are going to do everything right, we’re ready for Saturday.”

CHRISTIAN BAEZ, Lightweight Contender:

“It’s an honor to be here. It’s a good opportunity and thank you to the public. We’re ready for war, it’s going to be a good fight. This is my first but not my last time in Mexico.”

LUIS LOPEZ, Lightweight Contender:

“Thank you for GB for the opportunity and for being here in Mexicali and I’m excited to represent Mexicali. Christian is a great fighter, but I prepared for this fight. Like he said I’m ready for war and we’ll see each other this Saturday.”

De La Hoya vs. Robles is a 10-round featherweight fight presented by Golden Boy. The event is sponsored by Tecate “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING.” The fight will take place Saturday, Dec.14, 2019 at The Auditorio del Estado in Mexicali, Mexico. The event will be streamed live on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page. The series will also be available in your area, click here.

Tickets for De La Hoya vs. Robles are one sale and are available at www.Zonaticket.mx

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

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

SPRINGFIELD, MASS. (December 12, 2019) — The official weigh in for tomorrow night’s “New England Explosion” was held today at MGM Springfield in Springfield, Massachusetts.

Below find fighters’ weights, pictures and additional information:

MAIN EVENT – CRUISERWEIGHTS – 8 ROUNDS*
RICHIE “POPEYE THE SAILOR MAN” RIVERA: 191.5 lbs.
“MIGHTY” JOE JONES: 197 lbs.

CO-MAIN EVENT – SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS – 8 ROUNDS*
“ACTION” ANTHONY LAUREANO: 141.5 lbs.
ANGEL “AZTEC WARRIOR” HERNANDEZ: 144.5 lbs.

SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS – 8 ROUNDS*
OMAR “THE BEAST” BORDOY: 141.5 lbs.
DIEUMERCI “ELEPHANT” NZAU: 142.5 lbs.

WELTERWEIGHTS – 6 ROUNDS
DERRICK “BAD BOY” WHITLEY II: 148 lbs.
JERMAINE “REAL STEEL” CORLEY: 148 lbs.

WELTERWEIGHTS – 6 ROUNDS
JEFFREY “THE BLACK RICAN” TORRES: 147.5 lbs.
ANTONIO FERNANDEZ: 150.5 lbs.

LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS – 4 ROUNDS
ANGEL VAZQUEZ(0-1), Springfield, MA 175.5 lbs.
LEANDRO SILVA (1-3), Woburn, MA 177.5 lbs.

*denotes live on NESN
(card subject to change)

TICKETS:
Ticket prices start at $40.00 (excludes facility fees and convenience charges) and are on sale now HERE the MassMutual Center Box Office, as well as through Hartford Boxing Promotions (860.840.6244 / 519.1505).

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET, first bout at 7:30 p.m. ET and the NESN broadcast commences at 9 p.m. ET.

INFO: East Hartford super lightweight “ACTION” ANTHONY LAUREANO (12-0, 4 KOs) returns home in an 8-round tilt against ANGEL “AZTEC WARRIOR” HERNANDEZ (17-14-2, 11 KO’s), Hartford cruiserweight RICHIE “POPEYE THE SAILOR MAN” RIVERA (15-0, 12 KO’s) faces Virginia cruiserweight “MIGHTY” JOE JONES (11-1, 8 KOs), while Danbury lightweight OMAR “THE BEAST” BORDOY (9-1, 3 KO’s) meets Dublin, Ireland’s undefeated “SLICK” VICTOR RABEI (8-0, 2 KO’s). On the undercard will be local Springfield, Mass favorites, DERRICK “BAD BOY” WHITLEY II (6-1-1) the son of Springfield’s, Derrick Whitley Sr., former USA Massachusetts State Super Middleweight Champion, as well as ANGEL VASQUEZ (0-1).

DEC. 13 “NEW ENGLAND EXPLOSION” TICKETS
Ticket prices start at $40.00 (excludes facility fees and convenience charges) and are available for purchase at HERE or at the MassMutual Center Box Office.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET, first bout at 7:30 p.m. ET

WATCH LIVE ON NESN
NESN Star Boxing Night’s, “New England Explosion” sponsored by MGM Springfield will air live for the first on New England Sports Network (NESN), starting at 9PM ET / 6PM PT. The home of the Boston Bruins and Boston Red Sox, NESN is available nationally on a sports subscription basis. NESN is the only way to watch Star Boxing’s “New England Explosion” in the New England area (except Fairfield County, CT.)

WATCH ON FITE.TV PPV
For those outside of the NESN regional footprint, you can catch the action via FITE.TV. FITE, the world leader in the digital distribution of combat sports will stream the event live on thewww.FITE.TVwebsite, FITE mobile apps for iOS, Android, and the FITE channels of Amazon Fire, Android, Apple TV, and Roku on a PPV basis. The FITE PPV will stream the “New England Explosion,” and be available for just $14.99. Pre-order “New England Explosion” HERE.

NEW ENGLAND EXPLOSION DEC. 13 PROMO

SHARE ON SOCIAL MEDIA AND TAG @STARBOXING

FIGHT NIGHT: FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2019
TICKETS START AT JUST $40 (PLUS FEES)
BUY TICKETS
HERE!
Previous Releases:
New England Explosion Announced
New England Explosion: Richie Rivera Returns
New England Explosion: “Action” Anthony Laureano
New England Explosion: Laureano & Rivera Visit TD Garden
New England Explosion: Feature Fighters Open Workout
New England Explosion: Omar Bordoy Steps Up vs Victor Rabei
New England Explosion: Undercard Announced

About MassMutual Center
MassMutual Center is managed by the entertainment and hospitality industry leader, MGM Springfield, and owned by the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority. MassMutual Center is Western Massachusetts’ most diverse function space with over 100,000 sq. ft. of meeting space including a 40,000 sq. ft. flexible exhibit hall, five fully-functional meeting rooms, a 15,000 sq. ft. ballroom, and an 8,000-seat arena. The facility is the proud home to the AHL Springfield Thunderbirds and American International College D1 Men’s Hockey team, in addition to hosting family shows, concerts, meetings, social and corporate functions, sporting events and more.

About MGM Springfield
MGM Springfield covers three city blocks in the heart of downtown Springfield, Mass. As the world’s first LEED™ Platinum-certified gaming resort, MGM Springfield ignites a cultural and economic renaissance in a historic New England city by seamlessly blending new design with restored historic buildings. The resort offers more than 125,000 square feet of gaming space, a 250-room boutique hotel on Main Street, superior spa services, diverse retail and inspired dining headlined by award-winning Chef Michael Mina’s Cal Mare. MGM Springfield also features a seven-screen Regal luxury cinema complex, bowling lanes, a seasonal skating rink and outdoor marketplace displaying local art, events and talent. The property opened on August 24, 2018. For additional information, please visit mgmspringfield.com.

About NESN
NESN is consistently one of the top-rated regional sports networks in the country with award-winning Red Sox and Bruins coverage. NESN and NESNplus are delivered throughout the six-state New England region and are available anytime, anywhere on any device on the NESN app and at NESN.com. The network is also distributed nationally as NESN National. For the past six years, Forbes Magazine has ranked NESN as one of the 10 Most Valuable Sports Business Brands in the World. NESN.com is one of the country’s most visited sports websites with a state-of-the-art HD studio dedicated to digital video productions. NESN’s social responsibility program, NESN Connects, is proud to support and connect its employees with charitable organizations in our communities. NESN is owned by Fenway Sports Group (owners of the Boston Red Sox) and Delaware North (owners of the Boston Bruins).

About Star Boxing
For over a quarter century Star Boxing has consistently delivered boxing events of the highest caliber that attract loyal fans from all corners of the globe. Star Boxing has promoted events at practically every locale and on every network. From the Antonio Tarver – Roy Jones trilogy to the meteoric rise of Chris Algieri and Joe Smith Jr. through the critically acclaimed Rockin’ Fights Paramount Series, Star Boxing continues to develop world rated contenders and red-hot prospects into future world champions. Founded by its Joe DeGuardia, an attorney, former boxer and respected boxing leader, Star Boxing has become revered worldwide throughout the industry for its credibility, integrity, and exciting fights.

Undefeated Middleweight star Demetrius Andrade (28-0, 17 KOs) will defend his WBO World Middleweight Championship against contender Luke Keeler (17-2-1, 5 KOs) at Meridian at Island Gardens in Miami on Thursday January 30, live on DAZN in the US and Sky Sports in the UK.

Also featured on the packed evening of boxing is Tevin Farmer (30-4-1, 6 KOs) defending his IBF world super featherweight title against JoJo Diaz (30-1, 15 KOs) and unified world super bantamweight champion Daniel Roman (27-2-1, 10 KOs) defending his titles against Murodjon Akhmadaliev (7-0, 6 KOs). 

Andrade, 31, looks to successfully defend his piece of the middleweight title for the third time as massive unification fights loom in 2020. Following his homecoming debut in front of a packed crowd in Providence, Rhode Island, Andrade continues to stay active and take on all challengers following an impressive 2019. Standing in his way is Keeler, 32, of Dublin, Ireland. The former WBO European Middleweight Champion bested top contender Luis Arias in August, and will aim to make a statement in his U.S. debut against Andrade.

“I’m looking forward to getting back in the ring again finally! It’s a great opportunity to show the world my talents and to be part of Super Bowl weekend in Miami is incredible,” said Andrade. “Miami is a beautiful city and I’m looking to once again showing that I’m the best 160-pound fighter in the world. It’s me again!

“There are major fights for me in the Middleweight division,” Andrade continued. “Those are the fights I want and I’ve been very vocal about it. At the end of the day, I just need to keep winning. They can’t avoid me forever. On January 30, we have to take care of business against Luke Keeler. He’s tough and he’s coming to fight, which will make for a great night of action for the fans in Miami and everyone else watching around the world on DAZN.”

“Demetrius is a great fighter and I understand I’ll be written off as a huge underdog but it’s exactly how I like it, there isn’t a drop of pressure on me,” said Keeler. “It feels surreal in a way but at the same time, I’ve always visualized it so in a way I expected this opportunity to come. Again, there is no pressure on me at all. I’ll have nerves like every fight but I’m going to enjoy every moment, bounce to the ring and pull off the upset.

“It’s a life changing fight and winning brings life-changing paydays but I would’ve taken this fight for free to be in the position that comes with winning,” stated Keeler. “It puts me right up there for fights with Gennadiy Golovkin and Canelo Alvarez.”

In the chief support bout of the evening, a highly-anticipated grudge match will take center stage when Tevin Farmer puts his IBF world super featherweight title on the line against JoJo Diaz. The fight between Farmer and Diaz has been brewing for more than a year following multiple run-ins and trash talking between the two fighters. Farmer, 29, won his super featherweight strap in August 2018 against Billy Dib and successfully defended it four times in a nine-month span. Now, the slick southpaw will face Diaz, 27, also a southpaw, who will get his second chance at claiming a world championship after a decision loss to Gary Russell, Jr. in his first title opportunity in 2018.
 

On the undercard, 29-year-old unified World Super-Bantamweight champion Daniel Roman will meet undefeated Uzbekistan-native Murodjon Akhmadaliev. Roman, a Los Angeles native, unified titles when he captured the IBF World Super-Bantamweight title from TJ Doheny in front of his hometown crowd this past April in one of the most memorable fights of 2019. This fight will mark Roman’s fifth defense of the WBA title that he won in 2017. Akhmadaliev, 29, is Roman’s mandatory challenger and one of the most lauded prospects in the Super-Bantamweight division. Entering just his third year in the professional ranks and eyeing his first World Championship, the southpaw’s tremendous knockout power is expected to thoroughly test Roman’s slick boxing ability. 
“Our goal all along was to have this fight in 2019, but injuries happen so we had to be cautious and wait a little longer than we wanted,” said Roman. “I’ve been back in the gym with no limitations and I can say I feel fresh and motivated to defend my title once again. This is the longest break I’ve had between fights in a long time so it’s only natural for me to be anxious to get back in the ring. Akhmadaliev presents a strong challenge and I know that I’ll be getting his best shot, but I’ve been down this road before and everyone knows my track record in world title fights.”

“I am very glad that Daniel Roman took this fight,” said Akhmadaliev. “I know that we are both warriors and this will be a real war! Don’t miss this fight!”

DAZN presents Miami Fight Night, brought to you by Matchroom Boxing USA will be held at Meridian at Island Gardens. Meridian is a 65,000 square-foot custom built multi-level premier live event and entertainment experience that will play host to additional VIP events. DAZN and Matchroom Boxing USA will kick off the big week at Meridian as the first of three nights of entertainment leading into Sunday. 

“We are excited to provide the perfect spot for a night of world-class boxing,” said Jack Murphy of Meridian. “We built Meridian to deliver a unique, one-of-a-kind venue to host events that stand out above the rest and are deserving of first-class hospitality and VIP experience for corporations and the general public alike.  We look forward to hosting DAZN, Matchroom Boxing USA, and boxing fans worldwide.”

“I’m delighted to announce our first show of 2020 and our first ever in Miami,” said Eddie Hearn. “This triple-header is the biggest card in Miami for many years and will be held in a purpose built arena on Super Bowl weekend. All these World championship fights are great match ups and there is plenty more to come for this electric show live on DAZN.”

“We are thrilled to continue to break into new markets as we enter our second year in boxing,” said Joseph Markowski, DAZN EVP, North America. “There is nothing quite like the big game in America and we have a tremendous opportunity to showcase boxing to all of the fans and media who will also descend upon Miami that week.” 

Tickets will go on sale tomorrow at www.ticketmaster.com. More details on the special night of boxing from Miami to be announced soon.

Los Angeles, CA (December 12, 2019) Fast-Rising Super-Welterweight Star, Serhii ‘El Flaco’ Bohachuk, (16-0, 16 KOs), of Vinitza, Ukraine, returns to battle Tomorrow Night, December 13 against heavy-handed Colombian Carlos ‘El Guerrero’ Galvan, (17-9-1, 16 KOs’) at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, CA in a scheduled eight-round bout. Bohachuk and Galvan have an outstanding combined 93% knockout victory percentage.

The event, headlined by the welterweight showdown between Vergil Ortiz Jr. and Brad Solomon is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions.

Trained by the renowned Abel Sanchez in Big Bear Lake, CA and promoted by Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions, the 24-year-old Bohachuk, known for crowd pleasing performances, looks to capitalize on an already outstanding 2019 campaign in which he has compiled four knockout victories all taking place at the popular ‘Hollywood Fight Nights’ events at the AVALON Nightclub.

Stated Sanchez, “Coming off of the October 27th win over Tyrone Brunson, training camp continued in preparation for this opportunity on this Golden Boy Promotions, Fantasy Springs event. Serhii has had very good sparring on and off the mountain, the weight has been easy to maintain because Serhii stayed in the gym training. Sparring and conditioning has been more intense; having the stellar record means he has to work that much harder to stay unbeaten.”

“Serhii is one of the most active and exciting, fastest rising stars in the sport,” said Loeffler. “We look forward to another spectacular performance tomorrow night and seeing if he can keep his perfect knockout streak alive.”

Most recently Bohachuk stopped veteran Tyrone Brunson in the fourth round on October 27, 2019 earning the vacant WBC Continental Americas Super Welterweight Title. Other knockout victims this year included former world title challenger Freddy Hernandez and battle-tested veterans Cleotis Pendarvis and Fernando Marin. He is currently world ranked #14 by the WBC.

The 28-year-old Galvan hits the ring against Bohachuk following a sixth-round knockout of Jose Miguel Rodriguez Berrio on November 18, 2019 in Tolu, Colombia. Over the course of his nine years as a professional Galvan has faced numerous world champions and top undefeated contenders including Caleb Plant, Willie Monroe Jr., Immanuwel Aleem, Javontae Starks and Bakhram Murtazaliev.

Advance tickets for the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino event may be purchased online HERE. Doors open at 4:30 p.m.

Harrisburg, PA (December 12, 2019)–Alycia Baumgardner (8-1, 5 KOs) will be looking to put on an emphatic performance when she appears in the headlining bout against Christina del valle Pacheco (11-12-2, 2 KOs) this Saturday night at The Zembo Shrine in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

The card is promoted by King’s Promotions.

Baumgardner, 25 years old of Fremont, Ohio, has a record of 8-1 with five knockouts, and has been working hard as she prepares for this coveted main event spot.

“My training camp has been amazing. This probably the best camp that I have had so far,” said Baumgarder.

Baumgardner knows that being the headliner is a chance to raise her profile, and that is something she is not taking lightly.

“It is an awesome opportunity to be the main event. Not only does it showcase me, but it showcases women’s boxing. I want to show everybody who I am and what I represent.”

She knows that she has a tough foe in the native of Argentina, Pacheco, but Baumgardner is ready for the challenge.

“My opponent is a veteran fighter who fought for a world title and she is very experienced. so I have prepared very hard for this fight.”

Baumgardner believes that when the calendar turns to 2020, she will make a breakthrough and be recognized as one of the top fighters in the world.

“2020 will be a fruitful year. I think the public will get a good look on who I am, and since signing with King’s Promotions, I have been promoted well. I am keeping busy and getting the fights that I need to get. I am ready for anybody, and that’s facts. You will have to tune in on Saturday to see “The Bomb””

The 39 year-old Pacheco is a 13 year-professional who in her last bout lost to Yazmin Rivas for the WBA Bantamweight title on November 10, 2018 in Tijuana, Mexico.

New King’s Promotions signee Carlos Vidal (15-0, 14 KOs) of North Las Vegas will also be in action in an eight-round lightweight bout against 62-fight veteran Jonathan Perez (38-24, 30 KOs) of Barranquilla, Colombia

Undefeated heavyweight Michael Coffie (7-0, 5 KOs) of Brooklyn, New York will be in action against crafty Grover Young (13-28-3, 9 KOs) of Memphis, TN in a six-round bout

In four-round bouts:

Luis Morales (2-0) of Harrisburg, PA will take on Ayron Palmer (0-2) of Tallahassee, FL in a lightweight fight.

Roudly Lolo of Harrisburg, PA will make his pro debut against Mike Diorio (0-2) of Cortland, NY in a middleweight contest.

Brent Oren (2-2) of Harrisburg, PA takes Dewayne Williams (1-2) of Philadelphia in a middleweight bout.

Unique Harris (1-3) of Philadelphia will fight Britain Hart (3-3-2, 2 KOs) of Bedford, VA in a lightweight fight.

James Bernadin (2-0-1, 1 KO) of Lancaster, PA squares off with pro debuting Nick Baez of Bronx, NY in a lightweight bout.

Khainell Wheeler (3-0, 3 KOs) of Bethlehem, PA fights Patrick Pierre (3-9, 1 KO) of Brooklyn in a light heavyweight bout.

Tickets for this outstanding evening are $25, $50 and $400 for VIP tables and can be purchased by CLICKING HERE

The Zembo-Shine Auditorium is located at 2801 North 3rd Street, #2 in Harrisburg.

VERONA, N.Y. (Dec. 12, 2019) — The previously announced light heavyweight showdown between former world champion Eleider “Storm” Alvarez (24-1, 12 KOs) and Michael “Cannon Handz” Seals (24-2, 18 KOs)— Saturday, Jan. 18 from Turning Stone Resort Casino — will air live on ESPN and the ESPN App (in Spanish) beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m.

Alvarez-Seals will be part of Top Rank on ESPN’s 2020 January kickoff schedule that also includes the Jan. 11 light heavyweight battle between Jesse “Hollywood” Hart (26-2, 21 KOs) and Joe Smith Jr. (24-3, 20 KOs) on ESPN, 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Alvarez-Seals and a soon-to-be-announced co-feature will follow the undercard stream live on ESPN+, the leading multi-sport streaming service, starting at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Groupe Yvon Michel, tickets priced at $89, $75, $69, $62, $59 and $40 are on sale now and can be purchased at the Turning Stone Resort Box Office, charge by phone by calling 800.771.7711 or online at Ticketmaster.

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

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

About Turning Stone Resort Casino
Host of the January 18th event, Turning Stone Resort Casino is a Forbes Four-Star Award-winning destination resort, which continues to distinguish itself as a premier venue for fight-of-the-year caliber boxing. Turning Stone features world-class amenities including The Lounge with Caesars Sports, its new sports book in partnership with Caesars Entertainment, four hotels, more than 20 signature dining options, two spas, a 125,000 square foot Las Vegas style gaming floor, multiple entertainment venues, five golf courses, and several bars and lounges offering live entertainment every weekend. Additionally, Turning Stone and the International Boxing Hall of Fame announced a multifaceted partnership to spotlight boxing throughout the entire region. The program includes a series of boxing events at Turning Stone, culminating every year in June with an elaborate and bigger-than-ever International Boxing Hall of Fame Weekend celebration. International Boxing Hall of Fame Weekend will be held June 11-14, 2020.

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, former heavyweight champion Leon Spinks is serioulsy ill in a Las Vegas hospital.

“Leon is currently hospitalized and in the care of an exceptional team of doctors,” Brenda Glur Spinks, the former fighter’s wife, told ESPN in a statement on Thursday. “We kindly request that privacy be given to his family at this time. I, Brenda, Leon’s wife, and our family would like to graciously thank all of Leon’s friends and fans for all of the outpouring support of love and prayers.”

“Dear Friends: I know it’s been awhile. However, you know how I Believe in the Power of Prayer,” she wrote. “It’s been a tough year for us. Leon has endured a lot of medical problems. I’m reaching out to ask you to kindly pray for my Beautiful Husband Leon. So that he may overcome the obstacles that have crossed his path. We Love You.”

Just a day after the WBO ordered heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua to fight Oleksandr Usyk, the IBF ordered Joshua to fight Kubrat Pulev.

“Negotiations should commence immediately and be concluded by January 11, 2020,” IBF championships committee chairman Carlos Ortiz Jr. wrote in the letter. “If you are unable to come to an agreement for this bout the IBF will call for a purse bid.”

Anthony Joshua has been ordered to face Oleksandr Usyk by the WBO, according to Dan Rafael of ESPN.com.

“The WBO World Championship Committee hereby orders the parties herein commencement of negotiations for the above-mentioned WBO heavyweight mandatory championship contest,” the WBO wrote in the letter, a copy of which was obtained by ESPN. “Please be advised that the parties have 30 days upon receipt of this letter to reach an agreement. If an accord is not reached within the time frame set forth herein, a purse bid will be ordered pursuant with the WBO regulations of world championship contests.”

NEW YORK CITY (Dec. 11, 2019) — The fighters were all business on the press conference dais. The best triple-header of the 2019 boxing calendar didn’t need any pomp and circumstance.

Saturday evening at Madison Square Garden (ESPN, 9 p.m. ET), Terence “Bud” Crawford (35-0, 26 KOs) will defend his WBO welterweight world title against Egidijus “Mean Machine” Kavaliauskas (21-0-1, 17 KOs), while the co-feature will see IBF lightweight world champion Richard Commey (29-2, 26 KOs) hoping to avoid the takeover in Teofimo Lopez (14-0, 11 KOs).

The ESPN opener will see Irish sensation Michael “Mick” Conlan (12-0, 7 KOs) hoping to turn back amateur nemesis Vladimir Nikitin (3-0, 0 KOs) in a 10-rounder at featherweight. Nikitin defeated Conlan twice as an amateur, including in their 2016 Olympic quarterfinal bout, a decision that sparked international controversy.

At Wednesday’s final press conference, this is what the fighters had to say.

Terence Crawford

“I’m starting to get used to fighting on these big stages, so it ain’t nothing new to me. This week is going to be a great, spectacular show. I am well-prepared for whatever he brings to the table, and I’m sure they know that as well.”

“Nothing really changed between me and {trainer Brian McIntyre}. We’re a team. Iron sharpens iron. We added some more great fighters to the team. We’re pushing each other each and every day in camp. If I’m tired, {Maurice Hooker} will talk to me, ‘Come on little guy, you tired?’ And that just motivates each and every one of us to go that extra mile. Either we’re running, sparring, hitting the bag. Everything is a competition when we’re in the camp.” 

“I’m not focused on no other opponent besides the opponent that’s in front of me. My goal is to make sure I get the victory come this weekend, and that’s the only person I’m focused on now. Anyone else is talk. It goes in one ear and out the other. He’s young, hungry and I’m not taking him lightly.”

Bob Arum

“They’re all good fights.The Teofimo-Commey fight, bookmakers have made that a 50-50 fight, so that’s obviously of great interest. And the other two fights are not walkovers. They’re tough, tough matches. Terence is worth the price of admission by himself. He is pound-for-pound the best fighter in the world, and everybody will have an opportunity to watch him fight a very tough Lithuanian in Kavaliauskas, who has fought for us for many years and is a tough, tough Eastern European fighter.”

“Mick Conlan gets his chance for revenge. You all know the story. When most people thought he’d won his fight in the Olympics and Nikitin was given the nod, now they have a chance in professional boxing for revenge, a rematch. And that will be of interest to fans all over the world.”

On Commey-Lopez

“Some young man who has three of the lightweight titles and is looking to fight for a fourth will be on hand. He’s coming in on Friday to watch this match. Vasiliy Lomachenko will be here. A lot at stake in this Lopez fight with Commey. Both great fighters.”

Egidijus “Mean Machine” Kavaliauskas

“Crawford was on my mind from the start of training camp in June. So every day was Crawford, Crawford, Crawford. My mindset is good. I’m happy for this fight. When this fight was made officially, I was super happy. I was smiling all day. I want to fight the best, and we’re fighting in the Mecca of Boxing.”

“We started {training} in June, but we started light. Still, all the tactics, everything was about how Crawford fights, which stance {he’ll use}. Sparring, we had lots of different guys, southpaw, orthodox, guys in different stances. And the training camp, [we worked on} speed, power, sparring, technique and tactics, all in this five, six months.” 

“Going straight ahead to Crawford is not an option because he’s too smart and he showed in his last fight that he’s smart in the ring. So, yeah, we’ll work on my combinations. We don’t want to go very wild at him.”

Richard Commey

“2019 has been a great year. I’ve worked so hard coming from Ghana. You know how it is. To get to this stage, man, just an amazing feeling.”

“How many boxers have come from Ghana with a chance to fight in {The Garden} in the co-main event…God bless us, and I’m ready to retain my title. There is no way I’m going to lose.”

Teofimo Lopez

“It’s a blessing. It’s a breathtaking moment. It’s just something I have to visualize and just know that, 22 years old, I have a great opportunity here to do a lot. I’m excited, man. What better way to finish off the year than fight in the Mecca of Boxing, Madison Square Garden, for my first world title, in New York? This is a moment right here.”

On the criticism from his last fight against Masayoshi Nakatani

“I think everybody needs something like that. I needed that. Everything happens for a reason. I take everything they try to throw at me negatively and turn it into a positive. You can’t faze me. You can’t bring me down. I’m here for a reason. Teofimo is doing what he’s doing come Saturday night. We’re going to go out there and take over. I have vengeance in me. I’m holding that, holding everything. I want to shut everyone up the best way I can, and that’s doing what I do best.”

“God didn’t bring us this far for nothing. I didn’t come out here just to talk my smack and not back it up. We’re gonna do what we have to do. Richard Commey is a {former} world champion for a reason. And we know that it’s going to be a great and exciting fight.”

Michael Conlan

“This is straight business for me. There is no personal or emotional attachment to it. Vladimir, obviously he beat me in 2013 when I moved up to bantamweight. 2016, he got the decision, but he knows deep down he needs to prove something because his career will always be remembered for losing to me in the Olympics. He’s gotta prove something Saturday night. I don’t believe he will. I’ve prepared fully, and I’ve been training for 14 or 13 weeks for this camp. I’m ready for anything Saturday night.”

“It’s very fitting for me to be boxing here, having this rematch in MSG. This is where I re-started my boxing career after the Olympics, and this is where I’ll close the chapter. We’ll put everything in the past and we’ll stop talking about him because I’m fed up with it. I just want to take care of business and move on.” 

Vladimir Nikitin

“I don’t have to prove anything to anyone. I won two bouts against him in the amateurs and, right now, this is just another big step in my professional career.”

“I fought my last fight here at the {Hulu Theater} at Madison Square Garden. I’ve been in the arena. This is the next step in my professional career. I am preparing for every fight {the same}. It doesn’t matter.”

“I’m ready for 10 rounds. We’ll see what will happen in the ring.”

ESPN, 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT

Terence Crawford vs. Egidijus Kavaliauskas, 12 rounds, Crawford’s WBO welterweight world title

Michael Conlan vs. Vladimir Nikitin, 10 rounds, featherweight

ESPN+, 5:45 p.m. ET/2:45 p.m. PT

Josue Vargas vs. Noel Murphy, 10 rounds, vacant IBF North American junior welterweight title

Edgar Berlanga vs. Cesar Nunez, 8 rounds, super middleweight

Julian Rodriguez vs. Manuel Mendez, 8 rounds, super lightweight

George Kambosos Jr. vs. Mickey Bey, 10 rounds, lightweight

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

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with DiBella Entertainment and MTK Global, tickets priced at $506, $306, $206, $106 and $56 (not including applicable fees) are on sale now and can be purchased at the Madison Square Garden Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster charge by phone (866-858-0008) and online at www.ticketmaster.com or www.MSG.com.

Use the hashtags #CrawfordMachine, #CommeyLopez and #ConlanNikitin to join the conversation on social media.

(Dec. 11, 2019) — Boxing’s most action-packed single-elimination tournament — The Golden Contract — returns Saturday from the Brentwood Centre in Brentwood, England, with the quarterfinals of the light heavyweight tournament.
 
The action begins at 3 p.m. ET/12 p.m. PT live on ESPN+, the leading multi-sport streaming service. The semifinal and championship bouts of the three Golden Contract tournaments (featherweight, super lightweight and light heavyweight) will stream on ESPN+ in 2020.
 
The eight fighters in the light heavyweight bracket are as follows: former British champion Hosea “The Hammer” Burton (24-1, 11 KOs), former British and Commonwealth champion Bob “Lionheart” Ajisafe (19-3, 9 KOs), Steven “The Quiet Man” Ward (12-0, 4 KOs), Liam Conroy (17-5-1, 9 KOs), Serge “Bavarian Sniper” Michel (9-1, 7 KOs), Latvian veteran Ricards Bolotniks (15-5-1, 6 KOs), Andre Sterling (10-1, 4 KOs) and Scottish prospect Tommy Philbin (13-0, 4 KOs).
 
The quarterfinal draw was set Wednesday afternoon and will feature the following bouts: Sterling vs. Conroy, Ward vs. Bolotniks, Philbin vs. Michel and Burton vs. Ajisafe.
 
#MTKFightNight Comes to Kazakhstan
Monday, 10 a.m. ET/7 a.m. PT
 
Many of Kazakhstan’s top prospects will fight in a highly anticipated homecoming celebration from Baluan Sholak Sports Palace in Almaty, Kazakhstan. In the main-event, WBC International lightweight champion Viktor Kotochigov (10-0, 4 KOs) will face former South American lightweight champion Javier Jose Clavero (27-5, 5 KOs) in a 10-rounder.
 
Kotochigov, who signed with MTK Global earlier this year, has already fought in seven nations during his career. The world traveler returns home for the third time in the paid ranks for his fourth outing of 2019. A former amateur standout, Kotochigov has fought at lightweight and super lightweight as a pro, most recently defeating Jairo Lopez over 10 rounds to win the WBC International lightweight belt. Clavero, from Cordoba, Argentina, has won five of his last six and will be making only his third ring appearance away from his home country.

In other action on the ESPN+ stream:

• Kazakh prospect Iskander Kharsan (7-0, 6 KOs), who is coming off an impressive TKO victory over Isidro Ochoa on the Tyson Fury-Otto-Wallin card in Las Vegas, will face Cameroonian veteran Thomas Essomba (9-5, 3 KOs) in an eight-round bantamweight clash.
   
• Sultan Zaurbek (8-0, 6 KOs), a former Kazakh amateur sensation, will fight for the sixth time this year against Chinese veteran Leshan Li (16-3-2, 9 KOs) in an eight-round junior lightweight tilt. In the unpaid ranks, Zaurbek defeated the likes of 2016 Brazilian Olympic gold medalist Robson Conceicao.
   
• 2016 Olympic gold medalist Fazliddin Gaibnazarov (7-1, 4 KOs) will make his return against Jose Guadalupe Rosales (38-22, 20 KOs) in an eight-round junior welterweight bout.
   
• In a six-round middleweight fight, Kazakh prospect Abay Tolesh (4-0, 3 KOs) will face Czech veteran Tomas Bezvoda (8-10, 5 KOs). 

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

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.

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA — Kiante Irving is ending 2019 on a high note with a fourth round stoppage over veteran fighter Carlos Garcia Hernandez last Saturday evening. Irving remained unbeaten, improving his record to seven wins, all by knockout.

The popular Reading middleweight, promoted by Chris Middendorf’s Victory Boxing Promotions, saw the fourth round for the first time since his September 2018 professional debut.

The two met at Rivers Casino in Pittsburgh in a scheduled six round contest. Irving controlled the action throughout the fight, dropping the experienced Hernandez in the second round with a heavy right hand. The Puerto Rican fighter would finish the round, and survive until 2:32 into the fourth round, when a barrage of punches from Irving prompted Referee Ernest Sharif to wave off the bout.

It was the fourth fight for Irving in 2019, and the only one in his home state of Pennsylvania. He is expected to return in January 2020 in Washington DC.

For more information about Victory Boxing Promotions, visit www.victoryboxingpromotions.com

ONTARIO, Calf. (December 11, 2019) – WBC Super Welterweight Champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison and former champion Jermell Charlo continued their heated war of words while previewing their highly anticipated rematch on “PBC FACE TO FACE” this past Saturday on FOX. The title showdown headlines FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, December 21 from Toyota Arena in Ontario, California.

Catch the next airings of this episode Thursday, December 12 at 11 p.m. ET and Saturday, December 14 at 5:30 p.m. ET on FS1 and Friday, December 13 at 9:30 a.m. ET and 1:00 p.m. ET on FS2.

With their rematch set to take place almost one year after their first battle, Harrison and Charlo have kept up the animosity that has boiled ever since their controversial first meeting.

“There’s not a drop of love in my heart for him,” said Harrison “There’s a lot of animosity and there’s only one way to settle it. That’s fighting. I’m the most dangerous guy in the division. I’m 6’1, super-fast, strong and I have all the attributes of a guy no one wants to fight.”

“He’s a fraud,” said Charlo. “He manipulated the system and he isn’t the real champ like I am. I’m the real champion and it will take me going in there and showing why I am the champ. I get to do that on December 21.”

The rematch was originally set to take place in June, before Harrison was forced to withdraw from the fight due to an ankle injury. Charlo went on to knockout Jorge Cota in the main event on FOX June 23. The rematch that didn’t happen has been its’ own saga and only added to the rivalry.

“He wasn’t really injured, we’re all boxers and we all go through things,” said Charlo. “It’s a wear and tear sport. It puts a lot on our mind and on our bodies. If you don’t do it the right way, it’s going to tear you down. Maybe he used the smallest excuse and used it to get him out of the fight. There’s no easy routes in this thing. When you’re at the top, you have to fight.”

“For me, everything happens for a reason,” said Harrison. “Whatever the reason was, I just answered back and said I’ll do better and make the turnaround from it. I never questioned it. I knew my heart wanted to go and keep fighting. It told me to go beat him, because he’s not what he says he is. But my brother and my dad told me that if you’re not 100 percent, no one will want to hear the excuses If you let him beat you.”

Having already squared off at four press conference and multiple “FACE TO FACE” tapings, Harrison and Charlo have had plenty of opportunities for mental battles in anticipation of their encounters in the ring.

“This is going to be easy because I’m already in his head,” said Harrison. “I think he’s trying to figure out what he has to do different to beat me. I’ve got the mental battle won. I have him all riled up, now it’s just about capitalizing.

“I’m living rent free in that head,” added Harrison. “He’s mentally weak. Period. He’s emotional. He fears me and he fears everything about me. He knows I’m a threat. He likes the way I walk. He likes everything about me. He likes the way I talk what I talk.”

“This energy he’s portraying isn’t really him,” said Charlo. “I know something about you. They made you up to be this clown. You have a different animal in front of you now. This won’t be the same Jermell Charlo on December 21. The good thing is, I get a chance to show you and everyone that night.

“I’m a passionate person,” continued Charlo. “I’m a winner. When they took that one from me, of course a passionate person is going to have a different reaction than he would have had. I found out where your heart was. I’ve been able to make more investment into myself to destroy you ever since then.”

With their high-stakes rematch just around the corner, Harrison and Charlo gave their final thoughts on how the second fight will look, and how they will put themselves in position for a career-defining victory.

‘I don’t like ‘phony’ Harrison,” said Charlo. “It’s easy to explain why the rematch will be different. I’m knocking him out. I can’t let them judges make any decisions. That’s what I need. He’s going to sleep. Cold.”

“I’m a better athlete than Jermell Charlo and I will beat this man at anything we do,” said Harrison. “I know in my heart I would never lose to a sucker and he’s a sucker. As long as he’s walking this earth, there’s nothing he can do to beat me. I’m going to dominate this man. I just want to beat him 12 rounds like he stole something.”

#

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.

Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features former world champions Guillermo Rigondeaux and Liborio Solis fighting for the vacant WBA Bantamweight World title and rising heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba taking on Iago Kiladze in a 10-round opening attraction.

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.

LOS ANGELES (Dec. 11, 2019): Golden Boy is delighted to announce that it has signed the highly sought-after prospect Luis “El Matador” Hernandez (20-0, 18 KOs) to a promotional agreement. The reigning WBC Youth Super Lightweight Champion will return to the ring in early 2020.

Hernandez is a 23-year-old native of Chihuahua, Mexico who debuted as a professional in November 2015. Since then, he has remained undefeated across 20 fights, winning 18 of them by knockout. After several months of vetting many offers from different promoters, this young man has decided to take his career to the next level with Golden Boy. Hernandez, who has the same name as the legendary soccer player Luis “El Matador” Hernandez, will now look to follow in the footsteps of fellow fighters who also hail from Chihuahua, Mexico, such as Quirino Garcia, Juan Carlos “El Ranchero” Ramirez, David “Tacubayo” Murillo and Miguel “Mickey” Roman.

“I am very pleased to sign with the biggest promoter in the world,” said Luis Hernandez. “I have a job to do, and my promoter will get me to where I need to go, and that is to bring a world title back to Chihuahua, Mexico! Viva Mexico!”

“Luis Hernandez represents a new generation of Mexican talent, so we are proud to have him in our growing stable,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. “He has an exciting style and is in a very competitive division, so we look forward to promoting Hernandez as we continue to extend our presence in Mexico and beyond.”

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

GILROY, CA (December 11, 2019) – After winning three fights on his comeback trail, Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero (36-6-1, 20 KOs) is ready to step up in competition. The former multiple division world champion is looking to step in the ring with any of the big names at welterweight in the upcoming 2020 year.

“In 2020 I want to step up and fight any of the big names at welterweight,” said Guerrero. “I wouldn’t mind stepping in the ring with Mikey Garcia, who I think is one of the best fighters in boxing. I’ve always respected Mikey and I think that would be a good fight for the fans. Manny Pacquiao is another big name that I can see myself fighting. I also wouldn’t mind doing a rematch with Danny Garcia.”

In 2013, Guerrero fought Floyd Mayweather Jr., followed by some tough fights with Keith Thurman and Danny Garcia to name a few. The Ghost always gives the fans their money’s worth and he’s looking to do the same in the upcoming year.

“Everyone knows I always come to fight, who ever it is,” Guerrero continued. “I feel the time off during my lay off did my body some justice as I needed the proper rest. I’ve won all my comeback fights and now its time to step up. Given my track record, I feel I’ve earned the right to be in a big fight. 2020 is going to be a big year for me and I’m ready to take on all the big names.”

Las Vegas – UFC^® returns to Toyota Center with two blockbuster world championship fights. UFC light heavyweight champion and No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter Jon Jones looks to continue his dominance when he meets undefeated No. 4 ranked contender Dominick Reyes. UFC women’s strawweight champion and No. 11 pound-for-pound Valentina Shevchenko aims for her third successful title defense when she faces battle-tested No. 1 contender Katlyn Chookagian.

UFC^® 247: JONES vs. REYES will take place Saturday, Feb. 8 at Toyota Center 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 announced in March and continuing through 2025.

As UFC^® 247: JONES vs. REYES 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.

The most dominant light heavyweight champion in UFC history, Jones (25-1 1NC, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.) aims to tie the UFC record for total title defenses at 11. Throughout his storied career, Jones has earned impressive victories over world champions Daniel Cormier, Rashad Evans, Quinton ‘Rampage’ Jackson and Shogun Rua. He now looks to put on another show-stealing performance to further etch his name in the history books.

A dangerous finisher sporting a perfect record, Reyes (12-0, fighting out of Victoriaville, Calif.) looks to become the first fighter to stop Jones. Since joining the UFC roster in 2017, he has delivered memorable wins against Chris Weidman, Volkan Oezdemir, Ovince Saint Preux and Jared Cannonier. He now hopes to become the 14^th undefeated fighter to earn a UFC world championship by dethroning one of the biggest names in mixed martial arts.

Undefeated since moving to the UFC flyweight division in 2018, Shevchenko (18-3, fighting out of Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan) has proven to be a force at 125 pounds. After capturing the vacant championship last year against Joanna Jedrzejczyk, the former kickboxer has delivered successful title defenses over Jessica Eye and Liz Carmouche. Shevchenko aims to keep her spot at the top with another spectacular performance.

A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu brown belt under Renzo Gracie, Chookagian (13-2, fighting out of Kenilworth, N.J.) has proven herself to be one of the toughest fighters on the UFC flyweight roster. Throughout her career, she has secured impressive wins against Jennifer Maia, Joanne Calderwood and Alexis Davis. Chookagian looks to stop Shevchenko and achieve her dream of winning a UFC championship.

Additional bouts on the card include:

• No. 5 ranked contender Derrick Lewis (22-7 1NC, fighting out of Houston, Texas) goes for another highlight-reel KO when he welcomes Ilir Latifi (15-7 1NC, fighting out of Malmo, Sweden) to the heavyweight division
• In a pivotal flyweight contenders’ bout, No. 6 ranked Lauren Murphy (11-4, fighting out of Glendale, Ariz.) takes on No. 8 Andrea Lee (11-3, fighting out of Shreveport, La.)
• Heavyweight prospects collide when Juan Adams (5-2, fighting out of Houston, Texas) faces Justin Tafa (3-1, fighting out of Brisbane, Australia)
• Mirsad Bektic (13-2, fighting out of Montreal, Canada by way of Srebrenica, Bosnia) squares off with Dan Ige (12-2, fighting out of Haleiwa, Hawaii) in an exciting featherweight bout

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^® 247: JONES vs. REYES go on sale Friday, Dec. 13 at 10 a.m. CT. Tickets are available for purchase online at www.toyotacenter.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person.

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

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About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 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 Toyota Center:
Since opening in October 2003, Toyota Center has set a new standard for sports and entertainment, becoming one of the premier live entertainment venues in the nation. Laid over the span of six city blocks, Toyota Center is home to the NBA’s Houston Rockets. Toyota Center also plays host to the nation’s top concerts and touring shows. The arena’s playing surface is set nearly 32-feet below street level giving Toyota Center the largest lower level of any arena in the nation. Coupled with the exclusive Lexus Lounge, trendy Golden Nugget Club, Red and White Bistro’s superior food and service, Toyota Center offers something for everyone making it the hottest spot for sports and entertainment in Houston. For more information, visit ToyotaCenter.com.

About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the leading direct-to-consumer sports streaming service from Disney’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ 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.

Top Rank on ESPN returns to the big house at Madison Square Garden, the historic “Mecca of Boxing”, this Saturday, December 14, for a live presentation of a special tripleheader headlined by pound-for-pound undefeated king, Terence “Bud” Crawford (35-0, 26 KOs), defending his WBO welterweight world title against mandatory challenger, Egidijus “Mean Machine” Kavaliauskas (21-0-1, 17 KOs). The undercard bouts will stream live on ESPN+ beginning at 5:30 p.m. ET. Main event coverage will air exclusively on ESPN and stream on the ESPN App (in Spanish) starting at 9 p.m. ET. ESPN Deportes will join the event in progress at 10 p.m. ET.   

The tripleheader will also feature IBF lightweight world champion Richard “RC” Commey (29-2, 26 KOs) defending his title against Brooklyn native and rising star Teofimo Lopez (14-0, 11 KOs). In addition, in a 10-round featherweight special attraction, Irish sensation and New York fan favorite Michael “Mick” Conlan (12-0, 7 KOs), will take on the undefeated Russian Vladimir Nikitin (3-0, 0 KOs) in a rematch of their highly controversial 2016 Olympic quarterfinal bout.  

Calling the action for ESPN will be Joe Tessitore (play-by-play), former #1 pound-for-pound two-division world titleholder and 2004 Olympic gold medalist Andre Ward (analyst), and former two-division world titleholder Tim Bradley (analyst). The on-location desk team will feature analysis from Max Kellerman, Mark Kriegel and Bernardo Osuna.  

ESPN’s presentation will feature unique production enhancements to bring fans closer to the ring and deliver views that enhance their experience. The production will feature 25 cameras, including a mini FlyCam, an aerial tracking camera system, five super-slow-motion cameras, a jib camera for unique 360-degree vertical and horizontal shots, as well as bumper corner cameras.  The mini FlyCam and bumper corner cameras were exclusively developed for Top Rank on ESPN telecasts.  

ESPN’s official coverage of fight week continues Wed., Dec 11 with a re-air of “Blood, Sweat & Tears: Countdown to Crawford vs. Kavaliauskas,” (ESPNEWS, 8 p.m. ET) a show that takes fans inside the training camps of the main event fighters. 

Coverage will also include:

Preview here

• Unguarded: Andre Ward with Terence Crawford – in-depth one-on-one interview between ESPN’s Andre Ward and Terence Crawford. 
• Crawford vs. Kavaliauskas official press conference (Wednesday, Dec. 11 at 12 p.m. ET on ESPN+).
• New episode of “The Prospects” featuring Michael Conlan (Available now on ESPN+).
• 17 on-demand replays of Crawford’s past fights, including showdowns with Yuriorkis Gamboa, Amir Khan, Jeff Horn, Julius Indongo and more.  (Exclusively on-demand on ESPN+).
• Max on Boxing: Crawford vs. Kavaliauskas Weigh-in (Friday, Dec. 13 at 4:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2, Live).

From ESPN.Com

Preview here

• A video and written piece from Mark Kriegel on Teofimo Lopez, boxing’s most electrifying young fighter, who was 14-0, on the cusp of a title shot, but was also about to crack, carrying a weight that went back generations. On ESPN.Com Thursday, Dec. 12. 
• Tim Bradley breaks down the Crawford-Kavaliauskas bout (available Tuesday, Dec. 10 on ESPN+).
• News updates, predictions and a complete guide to the fight on ESPN.com and the ESPN app from Dan Rafael out Friday, Dec. 13.  

Top Rank on ESPN(All times Eastern)

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 – eight 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.