Emanuel Navarrete 122 lbs vs. Francisco Horta 122 lbs
(Navarrete’s WBO Junior Featherweight world title — 12 Rounds)

   Jerwin Ancajas 115 lbs vs. Miguel Gonzalez 114.8 lbs
(Ancajas’ IBF Junior Bantamweight world title — 12 Rounds)

 Miguel Marriaga 126.5 lbs vs. Alfredo Mejia Vargas 126.7 lbs
(Featherweight — 8 Rounds)

WBC Middleweight World Championship

Jermall Charlo – 159 ¾ lbs.

Dennis Hogan – 158 ½ lbs.

Referee: Charlie Fitch; Judges: Mark Lyson (U.K.), John McKaie (N.Y.), Don Trella (Conn.)

WBA Interim Middleweight World Championship

Chris Eubank Jr. – 159 ½ lbs.

Matt Korobov – 159 lbs.

Referee: Steve Willis; Judges: Julie Lederman (N.Y.), Kevin Morgan (N.Y); Tony Paolillo (N.Y.)

IBF Interim Junior Featherweight World Championship

Marlon Tapales – 121 ½ lbs.

Ryosuke Iwasa – 121 ½ lbs.

Referee: Shada Murdaugh; Judges: Frank Lombardi (Conn.), Robin Taylor (N.Y.), Steve Weisfeld (N.J.)

FLASH QUOTES:

JERMALL CHARLO

“I fight for my family. I fight for my life. He’s going to be fighting for his life tomorrow. It’s Lions Only forever!”

DENNIS HOGAN

“It’s all about me and my destiny. This is about me being world champion. The rest is all noise. I showed up. I’m here. I’m ready to go. Who cares what anyone else says? I’m here and I’m ready. Let’s do it!

“To win, I’ll just have to bring something that no one else has brought before, and that’s exactly what I intend to do. We will win.”

CHRIS EUBANK JR.

“I feel great at this weight. I was eating all throughout the night last night, I was sipping on water all day today. This is my natural weight. I’m not fighting a guy that’s 20 pounds heavier than me on the night, now I’m fighting a guy that’s my size and it’s going to show. I’m going to go out there and I’m going to stop this kid.

“I was just letting him know what’s coming. I’m not out here to play. This is my first fight in the U.S., my first fight in New York. It’s a dream come true. I’m going to come out here and make an explosive statement to the middleweight division. And then I’m coming for all the belts after that.”

MATT KOROBOV

“Yes, of course it’s added motivation that it feels like Eubank is looking past me. But the big motivation is that this is a title fight. I’m really happy to be here again and I’m ready to show and prove that I’m ready to be the next WBA Champion.”

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING COUNTDOWN Live Streaming Online – 7:00 p.m. ET/4:00 p.m. PT

Super Middleweight Bout – 10-Rounds

Immanuwel Aleem – 163 ¾ lbs.

Ronald Ellis – 163 ½ lbs.

WBC Interim Atomweight Championship

Louisa Hawton – 101 ½ lbs.

Lorraine Villalobos – 100 ½ lbs.

#

ABOUT CHARLO VS. HOGAN

Charlo vs. Hogan will see WBC Middleweight Champion Jermall Charlo defend his title against highly-ranked contender Dennis Hogan live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features middleweight star Chris Eubank, Jr. and top contender Matt Korobov squaring off for the Interim WBA Middleweight Title plus former world champions clash when the Philippines’ Marlon Tapales and Japan’s Ryosuke Iwasa meet for the Interim IBF Super Bantamweight Title.

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

With the 2019 WBO convention in the history books, Frank Warren’s Queensberry Promotions can look back at a successful journey to Tokyo.

Chief amongst their successes was the announcement that Jack Catterall had secured himself a World Championship guarantee.In what should make for a Merry Christmas in the Catterall household, the WBO confirmed that ‘El Gato’ would get a Super-Lightweight title tilt once Jose Ramirez and Viktor Postol duke it out on February 2nd.

The subsequent World Title fight has to be held within 120 days of that date.

A beaming Frank Warren exclaimed: “I am delighted for Jack. He has waited and waited for his shot at the title and is finally getting what he deserves.”

Elsewhere, Queensberry representatives were hard at work trying to secure top rankings for their fighters.

Daniel ‘Dynamite’ Dubois, the hottest prospect in the sport, can hope to see his rating upweighted to a Top 5 spot.

Warren said: “After what Daniel has achieved at such a young age, it only makes sense.”

“I believe this’ll be another positive step on Daniel’s path to the very top of the sport!”

Another of Queensberry’s hard hitting Heavyweights, Joe ‘The Juggernaut’ Joyce, is looking for a Top 10 ranking but that’ll only be possible should he come past Marco Huck on January 11th.

There were significant requests lodged for other Warren fighters, too, with Lerrone Richards seeking a Top 10 spot, Archie Sharp a Top 5 position and Sunny Edwards hoping to land in the Top 3.

Elsewhere, Liam Williams will go to #1 should he beat Alantez Fox on December 21st, Sam Maxwell will hope to enter the Top 10, Hamza Sheeraz has been put forward as a Top 15 talent and Troy Williamson can look forward to being ranked should he win his next fight.

Francis Warren, present throughout the week, praised the WBO for their hospitality during his time in Tokyo and said: “It was a great convention, a wonderful time was had by everyone and I hope we’re successful in all of our requests.”

Promoter Frank Warren finished by saying: “We are thankful to WBO for recognising the continuing good work of Queensberry Promotions in developing the best British talent into world-level superstars.”

And when asked to make a prediction for the 2020 convention he added: “More success, more titles, higher rankings. As a team, we are only heading one way.”

And what way is that?

“Right to the top!”

WBA #8 cruiserweight Constantin Bejenaru says he’s ready to go in and do the job he set out to do when he started boxing.

Bejenaru (14-0, 4 KOs) will challenge WBA cruiserweight champion Arsen Goulamirian (25-0, 17 KOs) on December 28 at the Palais Des Sport in Marseille, France.

“I have been working my entire career for this opportunity,” said Bejenaru, “…the chance to win a world title; the chance to show myself on the biggest stage with the highest stakes.”

A tricky southpaw from Ungheni, in the Republic of Moldova and now living in Brooklyn, Bejenaru was a 10-time Romanian champion, a Bronze Medalist at the European Amateur Boxing Championships in 2006, a Finalist in the European Union Championships in both 2006 and 2007, and a Gold Medalist at World Combat Games in 2010.

After turning professional in 2012, Bejenaru went on to score wide decision victories on ShoBox: The New Generation over previously undefeated Alexey Zubov (10-0, 6 KOs) and Stivens Bujaj (16-0-1, 11 KOs), as well as a decisive points victory over previous world title challenger Thabiso Mchunu (18-3, 11 KOs).

Bejenaru’s career was stalled for nearly two years by what he called “promotional problems,” but he is now realizing his dream fight in just his second under the Salita promotional banner.

“I love the sport of boxing. I am always working to develop my craft, my skills, my fitness and my mind. It is ultimately the mind that makes a champion. The intelligence and creativity that are necessary to succeed in the ring. The mental discipline that allows a boxer to persevere at the hardest moments.

Goulamirian recently defended his belt for the first time by KO 4 over Australia’s Kane Watts on November 15 in Paris.

“Goulamirian has made a mistake taking this fight against a fighter of Constantin Bejenaru’s caliber so quickly after first defense,” said promoter Dmitriy Salita. “Constantin has incredibly high boxing intelligence and he’s been waiting for this fight his entire life. I look forward to having a new world champion in the Salita Promotions stable.”

Filip Hrgovi? (9-0, 7 KOs) is weighed in and ready for his WBC International Heavyweight Title defence against former two-time World Title challenger Eric Molina (27-5, 19 KOs) tomorrow night at the Diriyah Arena in Saudi Arabia.

Hrgovi?, who fights on the undercard of the huge heavyweight rematch between Andy Ruiz Jr and Anthony Joshua, tipped the scales at 109.32 kg, while his opponent Molina came in heavier at 112.49 kg. 

“I feel very good,” said Hrgovi?. “This is my biggest fight so far but I believe 100% that I can beat him if I put in my very best performance. I don’t think it will be easy but I am ready. I can throw a lot of punches, I have fast hands and I can take a punch, if necessary. I know I have the skillset to win.”

Hrgovi? is backing Joshua to regain his belts in Saturday’s main event, and having already earned top ten rankings, the 27-year-old is aware his World Title shot could come soon, but acknowledges first he must get past Molina. 

“I think Joshua wasn’t himself in the first fight,” he says. “You could see he was under pressure. I think the things around him, the money and fame, took a part and he lost focus. Now, I think he has that back and he will win the rematch and show that he is a big champion. If he doesn’t win, I expect him to retire.

“In boxing anything can happen. Andy Ruiz was only one place ahead of me when his chance came and he took advantage of it. I’m already top ten in the rankings so my chance could come very soon, but first I must win on Saturday.”

“Filip looks in great shape,” said promoter Nisse Sauerland. “He is fully focused and ready to go. This is a great opportunity for him to announce himself on the World stage. We believe he is the best fighter in the heavyweight division and tomorrow night he has the chance to show that.”

Hrgovic-Molina features on the undercard of the unified World Heavyweight Championship fight between Andy Ruiz Jr and Anthony Joshua which tops a stacked event at the Diriyah Arena, Saudi Arabia. Also on the card are heavyweight clashes between Alexander Povetkin and Michael Hunter, Dillian Whyte against Mariusz Wach, Mahammadrasul Majidov vs Tom Little and more. All the action will be available to watch on DAZN in the US and other territories, RTL in Croatia and Sky Sports in the UK.

New York, NY (12/6/19) – On Thursday night, DiBella Entertainment (DBE) debuted its long-running Broadway Boxing series at Terminal 5, in the Hell’s Kitchen section of Manhattan, NY, presented by Nissan of Queens, Azad Watches, OPTYX, Christos Steak House, and Gagliardi Insurance. The 112th edition of the series was streamed live on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. The night was also a celebration for DiBella Entertainment as it was announced on Wednesday that DBE President Lou DiBella will be inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2020.

(Photo Credit: Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment)

In the main event, world ranked super featherweight contender O’Shaquie “Ice Water” Foster defended his WBC Silver title for the first time, cruising to a 10-round unanimous decision against Puerto Rican Alberto Mercado. Foster, 129.9 lbs., of Houston, TX, spent much of the contest using feints to catch Mercado, 129.4 lbs., of Humacao, Puerto Rico, with quick counters upstairs. A patient Foster picked his shots well and showed good timing to land with maximum impact and efficiency. When backed against the ropes in round six, Foster found the space to land short right hooks to the body to weaken his adversary. Clearly hurt, Mercado’s legs were rubbery in the seventh and Foster wisely continued to dig downstairs. Outboxing Mercado in the closing rounds, Foster seized the victory with tallies of 99-91 twice, and 98-92. Ranked #8 by the WBC, Foster, now 17-2 (10 KOs), is working his way toward a world title shot. Mercado dropped to 16-4-1 (3 KOs).

(Photo Credit: Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment)

In a thrilling women’s world title fight, “Merciless” Mary McGee, 138.2 lbs., of Gary, IN, captured the vacant IBF women’s junior welterweight crown with a dominant 10th-round stoppage victory against Argentinean Ana Laura Esteche, 138.8 lbs., of Buenos Aires. McGee controlled the action, but the tough-as-nails Esteche, a former unified WBA/IBF/WBO super lightweight world champion, pressed forward throughout, willing to take shots to work her way inside. McGee, who had twice challenged for world titles going in, set the tone in round two, rocking Esteche with an overhand right then landing three left hooks flush. McGee’s left hook proved to be a key weapon for the entire bout, while Esteche’s sturdy chin and tenacity forced her foe to have a high work rate. In round five, a jab-straight right combination wobbled Esteche, who then stumbled to the canvas for what should have been called a knockdown but was ruled a slip. Esteche would fire back counter shots whenever she was backed up, but McGee’s power overruled her offensive offerings. The two combatants traded shots in an extended rally during the seventh to the delight of the cheering crowd. A jab-straight right felled Esteche in the eighth. Landing very sharp punches, McGee was determined to end the contest inside the distance and dished out a furious barrage of shots to start the 10th round. Feeling Esteche had taken enough punishment, the referee halted the bout. McGee became the first to knock out the Argentinean just 30 seconds into the final frame. With the victory, McGee’s record now stands at 26-3 (14 KOs), while Esteche returns home at 14-6-3 (2 KOs).

(Photo Credit: Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment)

The 6-foot-4, 27-year-old heavyweight prospect Stephan “Big Shot” Shaw, 246.8 lbs., of St. Louis, MO, lived up to his nickname, dropping Gregory “Bad News” Corbin, 274.4 lbs., of Dallas, TX, near the end of round one with a powerful jab-straight right combination to the temple. Following a barrage of shots to open the second, Shaw pumped a stiff jab to set up his power shots. In the third, a straight right downstairs followed by a left hook to the head stunned Corbin and another cracking right hand to the temple had him stumbling into the ropes, prompting the referee to stop the contest at the 2:14 mark of the stanza. Shaw upped his record to 13-0 (10 KOs), while Corbin’s resume dipped to 15-3 (9 KOs). As an amateur, Shaw won the USA Nationals and National PAL tournament in 2013.

Born in Vieques, Puerto Rico, now living in Berlin, NJ, 21-year-old lightweight southpaw prospect Victor “El Turu” Padilla, 136 lbs., outfought a very game Fredric Bowen, 134.8 lbs., of Jackson, TN, over five frames. Padilla began by applying pressure and trading shots with Bowen. Two right hooks to the temple wobbled Bowen near the end of the first. For the majority of the remaining rounds, it was Bowen pressing forward, though to his own detriment, as he ate a lot of leather. Padilla spent this time focusing on his counter attack. In the fourth, Padilla’s hooks to the body appeared to sap Bowen’s energy. Padilla continued to target the midsection in round five then, with under a minute left, he pawed his jab and followed up with a monstrous left hook that sent Bowen to the canvas and his mouthpiece flying. Bowen rose to his feet, but was met with a follow-up barrage until the referee jumped into save him from further punishment. The stoppage came at the 2:47 mark of round five. Padilla is now 7-0 (6 KOs), while Bowen, 6-4-1 (3 KOs), was stopped for the first time in over a decade. Padilla turned professional in December 2016 after a stellar amateur career that included three National championships and a record of 90-7.

(Photo Credit: Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment)

Fighting for the first time since challenging then-WBO junior welterweight world champion Maurice Hooker in March, Brooklyn, NY’s Mikkel “Slikk Mikk” LesPierre, 141.6 lbs., rebounded with an eight-round unanimous decision victory against Roody Pierre “Rude Boy” Paul, 141.2 lbs., from Terrebonne, Quebec, Canada. Standing toe-to-toe for much of the contest, LesPierre used his shoulder roll defense to evade fellow southpaw Paul’s offense and land well-placed counter shots. Paul did sporadically land a few punches cleanly, but LesPierre’s accurate uppercuts and consistent body attack wore him down. Scorecards read 80-72, and 79-73 twice, all for LesPierre, now 22-1-1 (10 KOs). Paul left the ring at 16-6-2 (6 KOs). Born in Trinidad and Tobago, LesPierre moved to the US at age six and was raised in the East Flatbush neighborhood of Brooklyn, NY. When he’s not training, LesPierre works full-time as a data specialist at Mt. Sinai Hospital, where he’s been employed for the past 10 years in various positions.

Welterweight southpaw Mathew “Lefty Gunz” Gonzalez, 146 lbs., of Ridgewood, Queens, NY, dominated Rondale Hubbert, 145.4 lbs., of Minneapolis, MN, en route to a four-round unanimous decision win via scorecards of 40-36 twice, and 39-37. Gonzalez is now 10-0 (7 KOs) while Hubbert fell to 13-11-2 (8 KOs).

Matthew Tinker, 174.4 lbs., of Long Island City, NY, by way of Scarborough, Yorkshire, England, improved to 2-0 (2 KOs) with a first-round stoppage victory against southpaw Dylan Brysan, 174 lbs., of Stuart, FL, now 0-2. The stoppage came at the 1:42 mark of the frame.

Nutley, NJ (December 6, 2019)- Saturday night at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, Ronald Ellis will move down in weight to take on hard punching Immanuwel Aleem in a 10-round bout that will be streamed live on SHOWTIME Sports®.

The digital offering begins live at 7:00 p.m. ET/4:00 p.m. PT on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page.

Ellis of Lynn, Mass., is looking to get back into the win column after suffering his first defeat to DeAndre Ware on Feb. 1 on ShoBox: The New Generation.

The 30 year-old Ellis won his first 14 bouts as he has racked up wins over Jerry Odom (13-2) and Christopher Brooker (11-2).

In Aleem, he will be facing a tough knockout artist who sports a record of 18-1-2 with 11 knockouts.

Aleem has wins over Oscar Riojas (12-2), Jonathan Cepeda (17-1), Ievgen Khytov (14-0) and is coming off a draw against Matt Korobov on May 11 in Fairfax, Virginia.

“This is a great opportunity for Ronald. He was disappointed in his last outing, but he is facing a very credible opponent, and a win will get back his momentum on the way to major fights,” said Vito Milenicki of GH3 Promotions.

Mykal Fox 142.5 – John Arellano 143

Kalvin Henderson 167.6 – Genc Pllana 168.3
Marcus Bates 121.9 – Francisco Pedroza 122,1
Shamar Fulton 134.4 – Tyrome Jones 134.3
Shinard Bunch 147.1 – Vicente Morales 150.6
Martino Jules 129.9 – Eric Manriquez 129.2
Devar Ferhadi 170.2 – Vincent Baccus 167.4

Promoter: King’s Promotions
1st Bell: 7 PM ET
Stream: Facebook Fightnight Live

Photo By Daniel Cork

Tickets are $100, $75 and $50 and can be purchased at www.2300arena.com

Ismael Barroso won a 12-round unanimous decision over Yves Ulysse Jr. in a junior welterweight bout at The Hanger in Orange County, California.

Barroso, 138.6 lbs of Miami, FL won by scores of 117-111 and 115-113 twice, and is now 22-3-2. Ulysse, 140 lbs of Montreal is 18-2.

“I want to thank God for this win,” said Ismael Barroso.”I didn’t just win on my strength; I won by the will of God. My trainer told me to push hard and so I won the championship rounds. I want to thank my whole team and everyone who stood by me.”

D’Mitrius Ballard and Yamaguchi Falcao battled to a 10-round majority draw in a middleweight bout.

Ballard won a card 97-93. Two cards were even at 95-95.

Ballard, 159 1/2 lbs is 20-0-1. Falcao, 160 lbs of Brazil is 16-1-1.

“I thought I came stronger in the later rounds,” said D’Mitrius Ballard. “I felt I won this fight. I controlled the pace, walked him down and finish strong. But this is boxing. What can you do?”

“I felt I did better,” said Yamaguchi Falcao. “I respect the judges’ decision. He is a very good fighter. I trained for several months, and this was not the result I expected. But now I want to train even harder for the next fight.”

Romanian amateur star Mihai Nistor stopped Christian Mariscal in round three of a scheduled six-round heavyweight bout.

In round three, Nistor dropped Mariscal with a hard combination. Mariscal got to his feet but had enough and the bout was waved off at 2:00.

Nistor, 243 lbs is 1-0 with one knockout. Mariscal, 247 lbs. is 13-5.

“It was my first time as a professional with all these people and on TV,” said Mihai Nistor. “I had to warm up for a bit, but then I was able to finish the fight.”

PUEBLA, Mexico (Dec. 5, 2019) — When it came time for the traditional post-press conference face-off, Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete smiled. He is excited to be home.

Navarrete (29-1, 25 KOs) will make his fourth WBO junior featherweight world title defense of 2019 Saturday against Francisco “Panchito” Horta (20-3-1, 10 KOs) from the Auditorio GNP Seguros in Puebla, Mexico (ESPN+, 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT). Navarrete, who hails from San Juan Zitlaltepec, Distrito Federal, Mexico, won the world title from Isaac Dogboe last December and since taken the mantle as boxing’s most active world champion.

In the co-feature, Jerwin “Pretty Boy” Ancajas will make the eighth defense of his IBF junior bantamweight world title against Miguel Gonzalez. In the opening bout on the ESPN+ stream, three-time world title challenger Miguel Marriaga will battle Alfredo Mejia Vargas in an eight-rounder at featherweight.

The fighters went face-to-face for the first time Thursday at the final press conference. This is what they had to say.

Emanuel Navarrete
 “We are friends outside the ring, but I am sorry: Horta will pay for all the sacrifices that I have made during training camp. I am going to take it all out this Saturday on ‘Panchito.'”

“I’m just a few days away from completing my first year as world champion. I have to defend this belt that has cost me so much sacrifice, and I will not let anyone take it away from me. I can assure you that I will knock Horta out. That’s what I always try to do every time I get in the ring. He is the challenger, and I’m the champion, but I’m on the hunt. I’m going after Horta!”
Francisco Horta
 “I think that a lot of people talk about Emanuel — and he deserves it — but that doesn’t worry me. I know what I have to do to come out victorious on Saturday.”

“I’m going to do my job, and I’m going to come out with my hand raised. On Sunday, everyone will know who I am.”
Jerwin Ancajas
 “I’m excited to fight here in Mexico. We prepared very hard, and I’m looking forward to a great fight with Gonzalez.”

“I am one of the longest-reigning champions in boxing, and I don’t plan to end my reign yet. I will remain a world champion for a long time.”
Miguel Gonzalez
 “I am prepared to do what I have to do to bring the world title to Chile. If I have to box, I will box. If I have to fight, I will fight. That title goes with me.”
ESPN+, Saturday, 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT

Emanuel Navarrete vs. Francisco Horta, 12 rounds, Navarrete’s WBO junior featherweight world title

Jerwin Ancajas vs. Miguel Gonzalez, 12 rounds, Ancajas’ IBF junior bantamweight world title

Miguel Marriaga vs. Alfredo Mejia Vargas, 8 rounds, featherweight

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.

BROOKLYN (December 5, 2019) – WBC Middleweight Champion Jermall Charlo and highly rated contender Dennis Hogan went face to face Thursday at a final press conference to preview their world title showdown taking place this Saturday, December 7 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The final press conference also featured middleweight star Chris Eubank Jr. and top contender Matt Korobov, who battle for the Interim WBA Middleweight Title in the co-main event, and former champions Marlon Tapales and Ryosuke Iwasa, who square off for the Interim IBF Super Bantamweight Title in the televised opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on-sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com and 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.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from the Grand Ballroom at the Tillary Hotel Brooklyn:

JERMALL CHARLO

“I’m ready and I’m back like never before. I have a tough opponent in Dennis Hogan who’s real confident and he’s bringing Ireland and Australia with him. It’s going to be a show. If he can’t take my shot, I’m going to hit him flush and put him out.

“I believe I have something to deliver that Hogan has never seen before. I’m back to my most explosive days in boxing. I feel great about my training and the way I prepared myself to get this victory. I think it’s going to be tougher than he thinks it is.

“My daughter’s birth has given me even more motivation to knock this guy out and when you come to Brooklyn, you’re coming to my house. There’s nothing he can do and nothing he can say. They all say the same thing until they have to get in there with me.

“If Hogan says he’s more powerful at middleweight, than he’s going to come to fight and stay in the pocket. If he comes to box, I’ll come to fight, and if he comes to fight I’ll be able to box him. Regardless, we’re going to make adjustments in the fight.

“I’m going to come with a vicious attack. If he can hold it, then I’m going to try again later in the night. However the game plan plays out, I’m going to stop him.

“Dennis Hogan, I’ll see you Saturday night. We’re going to give everyone a great night of boxing. I’m going to deliver something explosive and give Hogan a nice little Christmas gift.

“The birth of my daughter has given me a whole new level of motivation, but I’ve always been fighting for my family. It’s just a new blessing and taking the inspiration to another level.

“I still have time to make Knockout of the Year, so hopefully this guy’s power is what he thinks it is and he comes to fight. I’m ready to shut him down.

“When you’re the champ, people are coming for you. When people know you’re great, they want to challenge you. I’m okay with that. I was on that road and now I’m here. In due time, you will see me get all of the biggest fights.

“I love Brooklyn and the energy I get from the crowd. It reminds me of Houston because the food is good and all my fans and family are here. I love Brooklyn.”

DENNIS HOGAN

“I just want to thank my team and Jermall’s team and everyone for making this fight and giving me this opportunity. It’s been a quick four weeks since our first press conference and I’ve gone to a whole new level of what I can accomplish and achieve in my training. I’ve left no stone unturned and I can’t wait to get out there on Saturday night and make my dreams come true

“I’ve always said that when you have a great atmosphere in the arena, it’s like a third guy in the ring. It gets me motivated and it’s always been a big thing for me. I’m going to feel like I’m fighting in front of my home crowd Saturday night.

“Every opponent that I’ve had thinks they’re going to knock me out. It’s not about how hard you throw a punch, it’s about how hard can you land a punch and that’s the difficulty people have with me. That’s one of my best attributes. When I land clean, they tend to realize I mean business and don’t want to come forward. I feel 20% more powerful and he’s going to feel my punches.

“We’re both professional athletes and we’re going to give the fans a great fight. One of us is going to walk away with the WBC belt and I truly believe it will be me.

“You’re going to see something explosive Saturday night. It’s two fighters who truly believe they’re going to win. That makes for brilliant viewing and I’m excited to deliver that to the public.

“I like fighting against taller fighters. It gives me more target and more opportunity to be elusive and show variations. I’m going to use my size to my advantage. You don’t really know what you’re up against with me until you’re actually in there.

“After the last press conference, I expected him to react and crack once I spoke, so I’m not surprised with what he said. It doesn’t matter either way, the talking has nothing to do with what goes on in the ring. He shouldn’t care what I have to say if he truly thinks that he’s going to win the fight. I think that’s a good sign for me, but either way I’m prepared for what happens in the ring.

“I’ve got an extra snap on my punches right now. The power is there, I’m strong, I’m not having to dehydrate as much and that’s going to make all the difference. I’m really excited. We built some extra muscle in certain areas for this fight and I feel a lot stronger because of that. My coach is brilliant at spotting weaknesses in opponents. Charlo doesn’t have many weaknesses but there are things that I can capitalize on with the right game plan. Even Muhammad Ali had these areas, so everybody has them and it’s about capitalizing on them.”

CHRIS EUBANK JR.

“My pro debut here in the U.S. has been a long time coming. It’s been a dream of mine to come out here and perform for you guys. Korobov is talking about decisions, but he will be stopped before the 12th round.

“I’m going to come for all the middleweight belts after this fight. I want all the big names. I’m 30-years-old and in my prime right now. Korobov is a great introductory fight for me in the U.S., then after that, it’s open season.

“There’s going to be a new kingpin in town after Saturday night. I’ve been fighting guys 20 pounds heavier than me. Now you put me in with guys my own weight, it’s going to be devastating.

“I’m at middleweight, so I’m the best in the division. Korobov is a great fighter and I respect him. He’s done a lot in the sport, but this is my time. I’ve worked too hard to come out here and not go through him.

“I’ve had a lot of big fights in the U.K., but now is the perfect time to introduce myself to the American public. Korobov is just standing in my way.

“I’ve been dreaming about this moment since I was a kid and started boxing. To finally be here after all this time is a great feeling. Especially to be able to perform here in New York. So many great champions were born here and fought here. I haven’t come all this way to have a flat performance. I’m going to dominate this fight.

“There were a lot of good opportunities and money to be made at super middleweight so I did what I had to do. Now I’m in a position where there are great middleweight fights in the states so I can be back to my natural weight and takeover.

“I’m not playing around. I’m not here to fight nobodies and coast. I want the big fights and the toughest guys out here so everyone knows I’m the man. Korobov fits that bill as a world class opponent.”

MATT KOROBOV

“I’m so glad to be here in Brooklyn one year after I fought here against Charlo. I’m so prepared and ready to give everyone a good show and leave the fans happy. I’m going to give the fans what they want to see.

“Looking to my future, this is a really important fight. What’s happened in this past is in the past. I’ve prepared for this fight really well and I’ll be ready Saturday night to win this title.

“Everybody works hard in this sport and goes through things inside and outside of the ring. It’s our job to be prepared. Whatever it takes to win this fight, I’m ready. He’s overlooking me and it’s going to be his mistake.

“We’ve done our research on Eubank. I’ve only watched a little but my team knows him very well. We’ve known him for a long time and known he’s a great fighter, just like his father.

“I’m glad that Eubank accepted the fight against me. It’s another opportunity for me to fight the best in the division and prove that I’m right up there and as good as anyone at middleweight.

“I just have to go in there Saturday night and take this belt home. Any way that I can with any strategy that works best. Whatever it takes, I will win this fight.

“I loved fighting at Barclays Center and it was a great experience for me last year. I think having that experience will definitely help me in this fight. There are a lot of Russians in Brooklyn and I’m excited for them to come out and support me.

“I’m really happy to be back here, especially on the undercard to Jermall Charlo. It makes sense for us because if we both go in and take care of business, we can make the rematch happen easily.”

MARLON TAPALES

“I have trained so much and worked so hard to get here today. We’re going to put on a great show for you Saturday night, and the best man will win.

“I’m going to make this my fourth knockout in the U.S. I’ve worked really hard to make sure that happens and we give all the fans a lot of excitement.

“The training camp that I had was definitely one of the best of my career. I’m strong and ready to show off everything we’ve worked on.

“I’m very motivated for this fight. Every day we focus on becoming world champion again. It is up to me and my team to fight the right way and make sure do everything we can Saturday night.”

RYOSUKE IWASA

“My opponent has very good skills and is a tough fighter. But I also have good skills and a lot of experience. I will give everyone a great fight on Saturday night.

“I’ve been training very hard for a tough southpaw. I’m going to show you the adjustments I’ve made for southpaws on Saturday night. I won’t have any problems with his style.

“I think that my experience will definitely help me in this fight. I’ve fought all over and against every different style throughout my career. Not just in fights, but in sparring too. There won’t be anything we can’t handle.

“We definitely want to steal the show. We work hard so that we can leave it all in the ring and I know that Tapales will bring the same mentality to fight night. It’s going to make the fans the winners and the best man will have his hand raised.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc.

“This is our 20th event at Barclays Center, and 22nd if you count CBS, which is far more than any other network. We’ve been to Barclays Center more than any other venue since it opened. Anybody who is a fan of boxing knows what Barclays Center has done for the sport and we are looking forward to getting back there again.

“This is Jermall’s 10th fight on SHOWTIME. He is a graduate of ShoBox and this is his fourth fight at Barclays Center. We are proud of our history with Jermell and Jermall and bringing you what we feel is a very intriguing card.

“In our co-main event we have the U.S. debut of Chris Eubank Jr. and we are thrilled that it is with SHOWTIME. Of course his father, Chris Eubank Sr., has a history with SHOWTIME and we were proud to be a part of his career and now with Chris Eubank Jr. Chris’ last few fights were at super middleweight and now he returns to his more natural weight of 160. And all six of his victories at 160 were by knockout. So he is certainly someone who should be reckoned with at 160 or 168.

“As for Matt Korobov, he is certainly someone no one wants to fight. We have heard the dialogue around this fight and people question Chris on why he would do this fight – ‘It’s too tough a fight, too risky a fight. It makes no sense.’ Well, it does make sense if you are fighting for your legacy. If you are fighting for meaningful fights. If you’re trying to elevate the sport, these are exactly the fights that make sense and I give much credit to Chris Eubank Jr. and Matt Korobov for taking this very entertaining fight.

“In our main event, what can you say about Jermall Charlo. He is entertaining, he’s charismatic. He’s certainly, undoubtedly, one of the top middleweights in the world. And you can make a good argument, at least in my book, that’s he’s the very best middleweight in the world. I think the most effective think you can say about Jermall is that you never hear him called out. You never hear, or almost rarely, do you hear another middleweight call out Jermall Charlo. When it’s time to set up fights all of the sudden there’s a lot of amnesia going around. And the name Jermall Charlo doesn’t get mentioned, and for good reason. He is the boogieman of the division. When he put a call out for this fight, there are a lot of guys who did not answer and I can testify to that.

“I give much credit to Dennis Hogan because he did step up to a fight that many others did not. We are expecting to see a better Dennis Hogan than we’ve ever seen before, and he will tell you that himself. He’s fighting at a heavier weight of 160 and feeling much stronger.”

#

ABOUT CHARLO VS. HOGAN
Charlo vs. Hogan will see WBC Middleweight Champion Jermall Charlo defend his title against highly-ranked contender Dennis Hogan live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features features middleweight star Chris Eubank, Jr. and top contender Matt Korobov squaring off for the Interim WBA Middleweight Title plus former world champions clash when the Philippines’ Marlon Tapales and Japan’s Ryosuke Iwasa meet for the Interim IBF Super Bantamweight Title

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

Beverly Hills, CA (December 5, 2019)–Fridayu Undefeated Super Middleweight Kalvin “Hot Sauce” Henderson returns to the site of his biggest victories, The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia when he takes on Genc Pllana in the eight-round co-feature of King’s Promotions card.

Henderson of Dallas, who trains in Fayetville, Arkansas has a record of 12-0 with eight knockouts, and will be making his 3rd start at the 2300 Arena.

On December 7,2017, Henderson stopped Brandon Robinson in seven rounds in a fight that dubbed “The Philadelphia Fight of the Year: On May 10th, Henderson

With those wins, Henderson established himself as one of the fastest rising super middleweight contenders in the world.

“Back in Philly which feels like another home to me. I’m excited to be fighting at the 2300 Arena as the co-main event against a game opponent. Getting back in the ring and continuing our quest to our first world title on December 6th has been on my mind since August! I’m feeling great and ready to put on a show #TeamSauce #Straightright #NoLimitMindset #KingsPromotions #ALLGloryToGod,” said Henderson.

Henderson is managed by Shane Shapiro’s No Limit Mindset LLC, and is promoted by King’s Promotions.

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (Dec. 5, 2019)– Rob “Bravo” Brant’s quest to regain a world title will begin on the Boardwalk. Brant, a former middleweight world champion, will make his ring return against former super middleweight world title challenger Habib “Wild Hurricane” Ahmed Saturday, Jan 11 as the co-feature to the Jesse Hart-Joe Smith Jr. main event at Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena (ESPN & streaming on the ESPN App (Spanish), 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT).

Brant is fighting for the first time losing his belt via second-round stoppage to Ryota Murata, the man he upset to win the WBA middleweight title in October 2018. Following the Murata defeat, Brant enlisted the services of trainer/manager Brian “BoMac” McIntyre and has been training alongside pound-for-pound king Terence “Bud” Crawford, WBO junior lightweight world champion Jamel “Semper Fi” Herring and former junior welterweight world champion Maurice “Mighty Mo” Hooker.

“I am excited to be back fighting under the Top Rank banner with a new team,” Brant said. “Training in Colorado Springs has shown me what it’s like to work with a coaching staff that have mastered their craft. I am expecting a tough fight with Ahmed, as he has proven to be a dangerous Ghanaian fighter. I’m confident my team will train me to showcase my talent. There hasn’t been a day that has gone by that I haven’t thought about regaining my title. None of that happens until I conquer the task at hand. I will reign again as a world champion.”

“This is a great opportunity to prove I am a middleweight to watch,” Ahmed said. “Super middleweight was not my natural weight, and I feel fresher and more powerful since moving down in weight. Rob Brant and his team made the wrong choice for a comeback opponent. I am coming to shock the boxing world and earn another world title shot.”

Brant (25-2, 17 KOs), from St. Paul, Minn., authored one of the biggest upsets of 2018 when he bested Murata over 12 scintillating rounds in Las Vegas. He threw 1,262 punches that evening and followed up his title-winning effort with a dominant 11^th-round TKO over Khasan Baysangurov in Hinckley, Minn. In July, he traveled to Osaka, Japan, and Murata flipped the script, engaging in a toe-to-toe battle that lasted 5 minutes, 34 seconds. Murata landed 64 power punches in the second round before referee Luis Pabon stopped the bout.

Ahmed (27-1-1, 18 KOs), from Accra, Ghana, is best known for his February 2018 title challenge against Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez, which ended via sixth-round TKO defeat. He moved down to middleweight in May, notching a shutout eight-round decision over Juan De Angel in Biloxi, Miss. Ahmed has been training in Miami recently and has sparred with the likes of former world champion Andre Dirrell.

The ESPN+ undercard stream, which begins at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT, will include the following bouts:

• The fighting Adorno brothers will once again appear on the same undercard. Older brother Joseph “Blessed Hands” Adorno (14-0, 12 KOs) will face Hector Garcia (14-7-3, 8 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight bout, while 18-year-old Jeremy “Magic Hands” Adorno (3-0, 1 KO) will battle Artrimus Sartor (4-3, 1 KO) in a four-rounder at super bantamweight.
   
• South Jersey native Chris “Sandman” Thomas (13-1-1, 8 KOs) will fight for the sixth time as a pro in Atlantic City versus Samir Barbosa (37-16-3, 26 KOs) in a six-rounder at super middleweight.
   
• Shinard Bunch (4-1, 4 KOs), the fighting pride of Trenton, N.J., will take on Dennis Okoth (4-2-1, 2 KOs) in a six-round welterweight tilt. Bunch’s only defeat came via close decision in August to unbeaten prospect Paul Kroll.
   
• Heavyweight prospect Sonny “The Bronco” Conto (5-0, 4 KOs), who hails from South Philadelphia, will make his Atlantic City debut in a four-rounder against an opponent to be named.
   
• Xander Zayas (2-0, 2 KOs), the 17-year-old welterweight fresh off a first-round TKO Nov. 30 in Las Vegas, will see action in a four-rounder against Antonio Duarte (2-2, 0 KOs). Zayas, a native of San Juan, Puerto Rico, won 11 national amateur titles before signing a pro contract with Top Rank at the age of 16. 

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 Star Boxing, tickets priced at $100, $60, $40 and $25 (not including applicable fees) are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting www.ticketmaster.com and www.hardrockhotelatlanticcity.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.

ALANTEZ FOX has warned Middleweight banger Liam Williams that the “doctor is going to have to save him from himself” come December 21st.

The American boxer, ranked #1 by the WBO, was responding to a wild interview by Williams where he referred to Fox as a “skinny little rat” and predicted he’d bank an “easy victory” for British boxing.

The pair do battle on Queensberry Promotions’ ‘The Fight Before Christmas’ card at the Copper Box Arena, which will see Heavyweight prospect Daniel Dubois headline against Kyotaro Fujimoto.

But the fight with the most immediate World Title permutations is the one between Williams and Fox, with the winner perfectly poised to challenge Demetrius Andrade.

Asked about his championship ambitions Fox said: “I don’t know if Liam is world level but I know he won’t be the man to stop my rise to a world title.”

Williams raised eyebrows earlier this week when it was revealed he had brought in the giant 6’6” Light Heavyweight Shakan Pitters to mimic the equally lofty Fox in sparring.

His opponent, though, doesn’t believe there is anything the Welshman can do to improve his chances come fight night.

“I know what he is going to do and I know what I am going to do… you will find out on fight night!”

When questioned as to what sort of sparring partners he’d brought in to prepare for the December 21st bout, Fox simply said: “Better, sharper fighters than Liam Williams.”

Fans’ mouths were watering already at the idea of the two squaring off but the anticipation has reached new heights since Williams’ began branding ‘lanky’ Alantez a “skinny little rat”.

Fox, however, thinks this is just a trick Liam is using to psyche himself up for war.

“I think he needs to not like me in order to talk himself into this fight” he said, before joking “I told him to call me Master Splinter, I am the sharpest rat he has ever seen!”

Fighting for the first time in the UK can be intimidating for any fighter, with British fans famed for creating a raucous atmosphere, but Fox insists he’s up to the task.

“I’m very excited to travel to the UK. UK fans are amazing and incredibly supportive of their fighters. I am looking forward to putting on a great show and not only beating Liam Williams but taking all his fans as well.”

And when asked for a prediction of his own he was quick to channel his inner Brit.

“I believe his coaches, doctor or the ref are going to have to save him from himself because as you Brits say, I’m going to beat the stuffing out of him.”

Having lost only one fight in his professional career, Fox has every reason to feel confident and his manager, Mike Borao, believes his man is going to bring a few surprises to East London too.

He said: “I think Williams is going to be shocked and overwhelmed by the fighter he is facing on the 21st. On the night, Alantez Fox will show why he is the WBOs number one ranked middleweight contender.”

With the WBO Champion Andrade waiting just around the corner for the victor, both men are adamant they are the one to step up and wrest the title from his control.

And if Fox is right, Williams may yet need to be saved from himself but the fans can certainly be safe in the knowledge they’re guaranteed a Christmas cracker of a fight come December 21st.

ALSO ON 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.

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

UNBEATEN cruiserweight hope James Branch Jr has snubbed the chance to sign up for Love Island.

The Hainault pretty boy was tracked down by agents who believed he would be a smash with females on the ITV reality show next year, but Branch told them he was a fighter not a lover.

Branch (6-0, 1KO) is back in action on Frank Warren’s ‘The Fight Before Christmas’ bill at London’s Copper Box Arena on Saturday December 21, live on BT Sport.

Ironically light-heavyweight Tommy Fury returns to action on that big Christmas show following his successful Love Island stint.

Branch is happy to leave romance to his Frank Warren stablemate and explained: “I was approached about it by a few agents and a lot of people were pushing me forward, but I said; ‘No’.

“For me it wasn’t something I was interested in doing, but fair play to Tommy. He did well, but I am not really interested.

“Tommy become a public figure from doing it and got a following. It should help him do well selling on the shows he boxes on.

“My life has been boxing from a very young age. Fighting means everything to me and I just don’t really know how I would come across on Love Island.

“I enjoy speaking and being in front of the camera. I’m not bad at talking, but prefer fighting.

Branch, 24, joked that he would have been a nightmare for Love Island producers, adding: “I am a different character to Tommy. I’ve got behavioural problems and might have been slung out after a week.”

Seven-time National amateur champion Branch spoke with his trainer Martin Bowers and believes he will move into title contention next year.

Branch said: “My career is going all right, but after Christmas we will start looking for titles. There is talk of the Southern Area title. Then I can start pushing on.

“I am blessed to be on a platform with Frank Warren promoting me and BT Sport.

“I’m learning and it has taken me some time to adapt from amateur to pro. I am sparring well and going good.

“It is going to be a good night at the Copper Box and a great event to come to. I am gonna put on a lovely boxing performance.

“My opponents will need to run otherwise he will get obliterated.”

ALSO ON 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.

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

RED CORNER BLUE CORNER

                 10 ROUNDS - WBC SILVER SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP 

O’Shaquie Foster vs. Alberto Mercado
Houston, TX Humacao, Puerto Rico
16-2, 10 KO’s 16-3-1, 3 KO’s
129.9 lbs. 129.4 lbs.

                 10 ROUNDS - VACANT IBF WOMEN'S SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Ana Laura Esteche vs. Mary McGee
Buenos Aires, Argentina Gary, IN
14-5-3, 2 KO’s 25-3, 13 KO’s
138.8 lbs. 138.2 lbs.

                                                       10 ROUNDS - HEAVYWEIGHTS 

Stephan Shaw vs. Gregory Corbin
St. Louis, MO Dallas, TX
12-0, 9 KO’s 15-2, 9 KO’s
246.8 lbs. 274.4 lbs.

                                                      8 ROUNDS - WELTERWEIGHTS

Mikkel LesPierre vs. Roody Pierre Paul
Brooklyn, NY Terrebonne, Quebec, Canada
21-1-1, 10 KO’s 16-5-2, 6 KO’s
141.6 lbs. 141.2 lbs.

                                                           6 ROUNDS - SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS 

Victor Padilla vs. Fredric Bowen
Berlin, NJ Jackson, TN
6-0, 5 KO’s 6-3-1, 3 KO’s
136 lbs. 134.8 lbs.

                                                           6 ROUNDS - WELTERWEIGHTS 

Mathew Gonzalez vs. Rondale Hubbert
Ridgewood, NY Minneapolis, MN
9-0, 6 KO’s 13-10-2, 8 KO’s
146 lbs. 145.4 lbs.

                                                          4 ROUNDS - LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS 

Matthew Tinker vs. Dylan Brysan
Long Island City, NY Port St. Lucie, FL
1-0, 1 KO 0-1
174.4 lbs. 174 lbs.

                                                                   All Bouts Subject to Change

PUEBLA, Mexico (Dec. 4, 2019) — For the fourth time in seventh months, Mexico’s Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete will defend his WBO junior featherweight world title. Boxing’s most active world champion will make his fourth title defense of 2019 Saturday against countryman Francisco Horta at Auditorio GNP Seguros in Puebla, Mexico (ESPN+, 9 p.m. ET).

In the co-feature, Jerwin “Pretty Boy” Ancajas” will make the eighth defense of his IBF junior bantamweight world title against Miguel Gonzalez.

Fight week kicked off Wednesday with the open workouts. This is what Navarrete — returning home as world champion — had to say.

Emanuel Navarrete

“After I won the title, I told Zanfer and Top Rank that I wanted to fight as often as possible. That’s what world champions are supposed to do. Look at the great Mexican champions that came before me. Julio Cesar Chavez, Oscar De La Hoya and Erik Morales built their names and their legacies by being active. That’s the tradition I am following. I am the Mexican ‘Iron Man’ of boxing.”

“I always knew I could get to this point. When I fought Isaac Dogboe the first time, very few people gave me a chance. I seized the opportunity.”

“It means a lot to defend my world title back in my home country. I have fought at many of the great venues in America, but this is extra special for me.”

“The fans in Puebla have welcomed me with open arms. This is going to be a classic all-Mexican battle, but ‘Vaquero’ will once again be victorious.”

“In 2020, I would love to unify titles at 122 pounds, and if any of the bantamweight champions would like to move up to 122, I am here. I want to fight the best. That’s the Mexican way.”

“I’m very happy to be defending my world title in my beloved Mexico. I’m excited to get in the ring. Horta is a very strong fighter. I told him to train hard so we can give a great fight to the people of Mexico. This fight will be won by the fighter that is the most prepared.”

“I want to thank Zanfer and Top Rank for allowing me to appear in Mexico as a world champion.”

ESPN+, Saturday, 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT

Emanuel Navarrete vs. Francisco Horta, 12 rounds, Navarrete’s WBO junior featherweight world title

Jerwin Ancajas vs. Miguel Gonzalez, 12 rounds, Ancajas’ IBF junior bantamweight world title

Miguel Marriaga vs. Alfredo Mejia Vargas, 8 rounds, featherweight

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.
 

SPRINGFIELD (December 4, 2019) — There’s no place like home for undefeated super lightweight prospect “ACTION” ANTHONY LAUREANO (12-0, 4 KOs). Although he won’t be fighting at home in East Hartford, Connecticut, Laureano returns to familiar surroundings for his December 13th fight on a loaded “New England Explosion” card, presented by JOE DEGUARDIA’S STAR BOXING, at MassMutual Center in Springfield, Massachusetts.

“New England Explosion,” sponsored by MGM Springfield, will air live from Mass MutualCenter on New England Sports Network (NESN), starting at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, in NESN’s first live boxing broadcast. The home of the Boston Bruins and Boston Red Sox, NESN is available nationally on a sports subscription basis.
In 2016, Laureano captured top honors in the same venue at the Western New England Golden Gloves Championships. He went on to become the New England Golden Gloves champion and placed third in the National Golden Gloves Championship.

Laureano’s last two fights have been in New York at Resort World Catskills. “I love fighting at home,” Laurano said. “Springfield is less than a 30-minute drive from my home and I have history there. I’ve built up a good fan-base at the Caskills and a lot of fans are coming to Springfield to support me with my New England fans. I’ll never forget all the people from there who helped me along the way. There’s no place like home!”

The 24-year-old Laureano takes on Texas super lightweight ANGEL “AZTEC WARRIOR” HERNANDEZ (17-14-2, 11 KOs) in an eight-round bout airing live on NESN. Hernandez, fighting out of McAllen, TX, has become somewhat of a gatekeeper in the super lightweight division. The tough Mexican-American fighter has taken on former IBF lightweight champion Robert Easter and one of the brightest in Star Boxing’s stable, former WBO super lightweight world champion, CHRIS ALGIERI (24-3, 8 KOs) the full 10-round distance, albeit in losses by decision.

“For me,” Laureano commented about Hernandez, “I respect him like any fighter I’m in the ring with, but I’m not looking at him differently than any fighter I’ve faced. My team chooses my opponents and I’m ready to fight anyone. They always do what’s best for me and I have full confidence in my team.”
Far from a typical boxer, Laureano holds an associate degree and he’s a para-educator at an elementary school in Hartford. He plans to earn his bachelor’s degree, majoring in criminal justice, but his education has been put on hold due to his professional boxing career. Working and training full-time doesn’t leave time to take courses, at least not right now.

“I definitely know I have potential in boxing,” the Puerto Rican-American explained, “but I have a brain, too, and there’s life after boxing. I want to give back to my community. Whatever I end up doing will be in the juvenile system for me to have an impact on youth. I love being a teacher’s assistant and I’m a good example for kids. I thank the principal. Dr. Greene, for giving me this chance and believing in me. Education is on hold for boxing, but I will get my bachelor’s degree.”

Laureano believes fighting live on NESN will open new doors for him, his career and brand.

“Right now,” he concludes, “people are noticing me more and more. I’m there but not there yet. I want to be a household name and I’m grateful to be fighting on NESN. I’ve had some fights shown on NESN, but those were taped, but this fight is live. The more people who see me, the more they will be drawn to me. I work hard and have a good, pure heart. I’ll never forget where I come from.”

“I look forward to watching “Action Anthony” at the MassMutual Center in Springfield.” said Star Boxing CEO JOE DEGUARDIA. “Anthony is one of the most exciting fighters around today and truly is non-stop action. The fans in Springfield and throughout New England are in for a treat on December 13.”
“ACTION” ANTHONY LAUREANO OPEN WORKOUT DEC. 10 IN SPRINGFIELD
Laureano will hold an open workout Tuesday, Dec. 10, between 5:30-7:30 p.m. ET, at Central City Boxing & Barbell, Inc in Springfield to promote his Dec.13th fight. City Boxing gym is located at 22 Tyler St., Springfield, MA.
The public is welcome.
Two other Connecticut fighters will also be in action in 8-round bouts on NESN. Hartford cruiserweight RICHIE “POPEYE THE SAILOR MAN” RIVERA (15-0, 12 Kos) faces Virginia cruiserweight “MIGHTY” JOE JONES (11-1, 8 KOs), while Danbury lightweight OMAR “THE BEAST” BORDOY (9-1, 3 KOs) meets Dublin, Ireland’s undefeated “SLICK” VICTOR RABEI (8-0, 2 KOs). 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).

WHAT: SHOWTIME Sports will provide live streaming coverage of fight week events as undefeated WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo defends his title against highly-ranked contender Dennis Hogan this Saturday, December 7, live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

Each event will stream live on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page. YouTube embed codes and links are listed below. 

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and also features middleweight star Chris Eubank Jr. making his U.S. debut against top contender Matt Korobov for the WBA Interim Middleweight Title and former world champions Marlon Tapales and Ryosuke Iwasa clashing for the Interim IBF 122-pound title.

SHOWTIME Sports will also provide live undercard streaming coverage and pre-fight analysis on social platforms beginning at 7:00 p.m. ET/4:00 p.m. PT.  In action on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page, once-beaten middleweight contenders Immanuwel Aleem and Ronald Ellis face off in a 10-round fight while Louisa Hawton battles Lorraine Villalobos in a rematch for the women’s Interim WBC Atomweight Championship (102 pounds).

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5 – 12:30 p.m. ET/9:30 a.m. PT

Final Press Conference – The Tillery Hotel Brooklyn

SHOWTIME Sports YouTube Event Page: https://s.sho.com/2OHR9DE

Embed Code: <iframe width=”560″ height=”315″ src=”https://www.youtube.com/embed/nHRduI5HnwQ” frameborder=”0″ allow=”accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture” allowfullscreen></iframe>

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6 – 1:00 p.m. ET/10:00 a.m. PT

Official Weigh-In – The Tillery Hotel Brooklyn

SHOWTIME Sports YouTube Event Page: https://s.sho.com/2OMDOKp

Embed Code: <iframe width=”560″ height=”315″ src=”https://www.youtube.com/embed/p3kHwSG6FRE” frameborder=”0″ allow=”accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture” allowfullscreen></iframe>

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7 – 7:00 p.m. ET/4:00 p.m. PT

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Countdown – Barclays Center

SHOWTIME Sports YouTube Event Page: https://s.sho.com/2RhKzp8

Embed Code: <iframe width=”560″ height=”315″ src=”https://www.youtube.com/embed/vgSTFuXP5o4” frameborder=”0″ allow=”accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture” allowfullscreen></iframe>

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7

Post-Fight Press Conference – Barclays Center

SHOWTIME Sports YouTube Event Page: https://s.sho.com/2P8DvbN  

Embed Code: <iframe width=”560″ height=”315″ src=”https://www.youtube.com/embed/TxXaeC3kAKM” frameborder=”0″ allow=”accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture” allowfullscreen></iframe>

BROOKLYN (December 4, 2019) – Fighters stepping into the ring this Saturday, December 7 showed off their skills at a media workout in Brooklyn Wednesday before they compete live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Headlining Wednesday’s workout was highly rated contender Dennis Hogan,who battles WBC Middleweight Champion Jermall Charlo in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING.

The event also featured middleweight star Chris Eubank Jr. and top contender Matt Korobov, who battle for the Interim WBA Middleweight Title in the co-main event, and former champions Marlon Tapales and Ryosuke Iwasa, who meet for the Interim IBF Super Bantamweight Title in the televised opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on-sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com and 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 workout also featured Australia’s Louisa Hawton, who takes on Lorraine Villalobos in a rematch for the Interim WBC Strawweight Championship in SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING COUNTDOWN action on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

Also working out for media on Wednesday was Ghana’s Duke Micah, who trains in Brooklyn and will compete in non-televised action Saturday at Barclays Center.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

DENNIS HOGAN

“It means the absolute world to me to win this title on Saturday night. I’m very conscious of that and I’ve worked so hard for it. This is my opportunity to make all of my dreams come true and raise that belt over my head.

“I showed in the fight against Jaime Munguia that I’m willing to do whatever it takes inside that ring. I’m so persistent and I want to achieve my goals more than anything. Losing the fight just made me want to go even harder and that led right into my training. It’s made me twice the fighter I was before and everyone will see that on Saturday night.

“This is 100 percent the best version of myself. I’ve worked so hard after the last fight and here I am now. I’m proud of the levels that I reached in training and how hard I pushed to become champion of the world.

“We’re prepared for absolutely everything. It’s really all come together perfectly. I believe that in life, if you work hard and want something, it will come. This time we really put the intent into making sure we take full advantage of any opportunity that presents itself in this fight.

“Everyone who’s seen me fight fully knows that I can win this and I have 100 percent confidence that I will get it done. If you know how determined I am, you know that I can win this fight.

“I’ve been training in Miami where it’s very humid and we arrived here last night. I like the cold weather here and I love this air. It’s crisp and clean. This is the atmosphere where I do my best work. On top of that, being in New York has real prestige to it. Just being here makes me feel like I’m truly living my dreams.

“I’ve gained power because of the extra carbohydrates that I’ve been able to have in camp. I have more back muscle, leg muscle and I can feel the power. It’s an extra 10 to 15% snap on my punches.

“We sparred with Jeison Rosario in Miami and he was exactly what I needed for this fight. He’s prepared me and gotten me ready for anything that Charlo can bring on Saturday.”

CHRIS EUBANK JR.

“I’ve been dreaming about coming here and fighting in the U.S. since I was a kid. You dream about fighting where all your favorite fighters came to perform on the big stage. To do it here in New York is special. It’s an iconic place and so many great world champions have come from here.

“I’m not a true super middleweight so I’m excited to be fighting at 160-pounds. I’m going to be a beast. I’m going to be an absolute savage. The power and the speed is going to really shine through against guys my own size.

“Anyone with a belt in the middleweight division, I’m coming for them. If that means Charlo, I’ll be more than happy to get in there with him.

“This is an iconic place to fight, right here in Brooklyn. We’re aiming to make our own history. I’ve done so much in England and I feel like this is the right time to expose myself to the American public.

“My goal is to make a name for myself in the U.S. and broaden our horizons. The fight fans here have known me for a while, but I want to break out past that. This is a great starting fight for me in the U.S. After this, it’s 2020 and I’m going to be very active fighting all of the champions.

“I’ve got a lot of fights left in me. I’ve got years ahead of me where I’m going to do a lot of damage. My career is on track and I’m very happy with where I am. I’m ready to go.

“This is not the time to go in there and coast. I’m here to make a statement. I’ve always been the type of fighter who looks to stop my opponent in spectacular fashion. This is my time to shine. Nobody is going to be able to stop me.”

MATT KOROBOV

“I’m really happy with how my training camp was. I had no injuries and everything was very smooth. Training camp definitely went to plan so that we can get this win on Saturday night.

“I’m excited to be back in Brooklyn one year later after I fought Jermall Charlo at Barclays Center. There’s definitely some de ja vu for me. It’s the same gym and the same time and same people I saw last year. I’m really happy about it and focusing on being able to show my best on Saturday night.

“The Charlo fight put me on another level as a fighter. They’re all going to have to start looking at me as one of the best in the division. I’m excited to take advantage of my opportunity Saturday and get another big fight.

“It’s Eubank’s problem if he’s focused on getting the Jermall Charlo fight. I’m just focused on doing my job and doing my best. I’m very confident for this fight.

“It makes sense to me that I’d fight Charlo next if I win. I’m definitely hoping to get that fight in 2020 but first I have to take care of Eubank.

“We’ll see what Eubank can do Saturday night. It’s hard to say what he’ll fight like until then. It’s boxing. Any of us could have a bad night or the night of our life.

“Eubank looked very good when he beat James DeGale. It surprised a lot of people but I know that he’s a strong fighter. I wasn’t that surprised. DeGale might not have been ready, but I’m always 100 percent prepared.”

MARLON TAPALES

“I’m very excited for this fight. I trained hard very hard so I’m hoping that Iwasa can hold up for the whole 12 rounds. I’m proud to continue representing for the Philippines.

“I’m in great shape and I’m coming to be at my best on Saturday night. I’m going to leave it all in the ring like I always do. I’m definitely ready for this fight.

“First I have to win this fight against Iwasa. He’s not an easy fight at all, especially considering he’s a former world champion. All of my concentration is on that, but when I win, I’ll be ready to fight the champions.

“It’s very inspiring to me that my teammate John Riel Casimero just won a world title recently. It makes me want to give my all even more when the bell rings on Saturday night.

“Iwasa is a very good boxer. He’s proved a lot in winning a world title. I have to be focused and 100 percent ready, that’s why I trained so hard for this fight.

“I want to be world champion again. The first step is winning this fight against Iwasa. I can’t say whether I’ll get the knockout, but I’m going to try my best to give a great fight.”

RYOSUKE IWASA

“I’m going to fight my own style. The opponent doesn’t matter. I will be ready and be at my very best once we get in the ring Saturday.

“I know that I’m facing a very skilled opponent with good power but I’m not worried about what he does in the ring. I’m going to make him miss and land my best shots.

“I want the biggest fights against the best champions. That’s why I have to win on Saturday night. Nothing else can happen until then. I’m really focused on Marlon Tapales.

“I’m very comfortable at this weight and I feel like my power has definitely improved. This helps me have the best training camp possible and I believe it will have me at my best on fight night.

“I definitely want the knockout, but only if it comes to me naturally. I believe in my boxing skills and I know that I can win a 12 round fight if that’s what it comes to.”

LOUISA HAWTON

“I think people enjoyed our first fight and saw that it had a lot of action. The opportunity came up to get the rematch and I was happy to do it. To have it here in Brooklyn is incredible. It’s my first time here so I’m really pumped for Saturday.

“As a fighter I’m always looking to entertain the crowd and light up the arena. I’ll definitely be ready to take the knockout if the opportunity comes.

“I like to fight at a fast pace. I can battle on the inside or box on the outside. I believe I can do it all and we worked hard to show off every part of our game.

“I’m looking to keep moving forward and get better and better fights. My job is to take care of business in the ring and that’s what we’re here to do Saturday.”

DUKE MICAH

“I feel great. My training camp was flawless. I can’t wait to prove to the world that I’m the best bantamweight in the world Saturday night.

“Fans should expect a really good show from me. That’s what the people came to see. People from Africa know me and I’m here to show the rest of the world what I can do.

“We trained hard. I’m going to show off my boxing skills and when the opportunity comes, I’m going for the finish and a spectacular knockout.

“I work in training camp so that the fans can enjoy my fights. Everyone brings their own style and I have things that I can bring to the ring that are going to impress a lot of people. This is a chance to show it on the big stage.”

#

ABOUT CHARLO VS. HOGAN
Charlo vs. Hogan will see WBC Middleweight Champion Jermall Charlo defend his title against highly-ranked contender Dennis Hogan live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features features middleweight star Chris Eubank, Jr. and top contender Matt Korobov squaring off for the Interim WBA Middleweight Title plus former world champions clash when the Philippines’ Marlon Tapales and Japan’s Ryosuke Iwasa meet for the Interim IBF Super Bantamweight Title

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

NEW YORK CITY (Dec. 4, 2019) – Two of New York City’s flashiest and most promising prospects, Brooklyn’s Edgar “The Chosen One” Berlanga and the Bronx’s Josue “The Prodigy” Vargas, are ready for their hometown close-ups Saturday, Dec. 14 at Madison Square Garden before pound-for-pound king Terence “Bud” Crawford closes the show.
 
Berlanga (12-0, 12 KOs) will look to extend his streak of first-round knockout to 13 against Cesar Nunez (16-1-1, 8 KOs) in an eight-round super middleweight bout, while Vargas (15-1, 9 KOs) will battle Noel Murphy (14-1-1, 2 KOs) in a 10-rounder for the IBF North American junior welterweight belt.
 
Berlanga-Nunez and Vargas-Murphy will be the featured undercard bouts live on ESPN+, the leading multi-sport streaming service, beginning at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT. Later that evening, following the Heisman Trophy Ceremony, Crawford will defend his WBO welterweight world title against Egidijus “Mean Machine” Kavaliauskas live on ESPN and the ESPN App (in Spanish) at 9 p.m. ET, with ESPN Deportes joining in progress at 10 p.m. ET. The ESPN telecast will also include Richard Commey’s IBF lightweight world title defense against rising star Teofimo Lopez and unbeaten featherweight sensation Michael “Mick” Conlan seeking Olympic revenge against Russian nemesis Vladimir Nikitin.
 
Berlanga, boxing’s newest Puerto Rican knockout artist, has never seen the second round as a pro and has scored seven knockouts in 84 seconds or less. He made his Top Rank debut on the Crawford-Amir Khan card April 20 at Madison Square Garden, knocking out Samir dos Santos Barbosa in 46 seconds. He last fought Aug. 10 in Philadelphia, and his ring entrance with hip-hop icon Fat Joe lasted longer than the 2 minutes, 24 seconds it took him to knock out Gregory Trenel. Spain’s Nunez is the stiffest test of Berlanga’s career, as his only career defeat came via eighth-round stoppage to former WBA super middleweight world champion Vincent Feigenbutz.
 
“It’s a blessing to fight at MSG, my second time fighting in the big room,” Berlanga said. “I’ve had a few opponents who were supposed to take me rounds and I’ve knocked them out in the first round. I’m ready to go those rounds, so let’s see if he can handle my power.”
 
Vargas, the flashy southpaw who turned 21 years old in May, is seeking his 10^th consecutive win since a 2016 disqualification defeat. The Puerto Rican-born Vargas moved to New York City with his family when he was 5 years old and, in 2011, he was dubbed a “13-year-old prodigy” by the New York Daily News. This will be his fourth fight of 2019 and fifth since making his Top Rank debut on the Vasiliy Lomachenko-Jose Pedraza card at the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden last December. Murphy, from Cork, Ireland, now resides in the Woodlawn section of the Bronx. He is unbeaten in three bouts since a close decision defeat to the then-unbeaten Mikkel LesPierre.
 
“I went to see a lot of fights there, especially when Miguel Cotto fought at the Garden,” Vargas said. “I remember seeing all the Puerto Rican fans. It gives me goosebumps every time I think about it. I always dreamed of fighting at MSG in front of my supporters from New York and Puerto Rico. I finally got here. I just can’t wait to perform under the lights at MSG, the big one.”
 
In other action on the ESPN+ stream:

• In a battle of unbeatens, Crawford stablemate Steve “So Cold” Nelson (15-0, 12 KOs) will take on Cem “Champ” Kilic (14-0, 9 KOs) in a 10-rounder for the vacant NABO super middleweight title. Nelson made his super middleweight debut Sept. 1 in his hometown of Omaha, Neb., knocking out Derrick Findley in four rounds. Kilic has four knockouts in his last five bouts.
   
• Julian “Hammer Hands” Rodriguez (18-0, 12 KOs), who hails from just across the Hudson River in Hasbrouck Heights, N.J., will face Manuel Mendez (16-6-3, 11 KOs) in an eight-round super lightweight tilt.
• Australian lightweight contender George Kambosos Jr. (17-0, 10 KOs) will fight former lightweight world champion Mickey Bey (23-2-1, 11 KOs) in a 10-rounder.

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.
 
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.

Andy Ruiz, current unified Heavyweight World Champion:

On importance of keeping the belts: “It’s been a long three months of camp. I’ve been training really hard for this fight. Like June 1, I made history, and I think the importance is to remake history on Dec. 7 in Saudi Arabia. Not much to say, but I’m ready to rock androll, I know AJ is going to come in with a different game plan. I know he’s prepared, motivated, being more cautious – I know he’s going to try and box me around. My job is to prepare for whatever comes my way.”

On if the motivation is still there: “Of course, I don’t want these beautiful belts to go away. Remember I’ve been doing this since I was six, it’s finally paying off, and no way I’m going let these belts go. I’m going to die trying, and do anything that’s possible to get that victory. It’s been a long journey, long roller coaster in my life, and no way I’m going to let these go Dec. 7. Let the best man win.”

Anthony Joshua OBE, former unified Heavyweight World Champion

On this being a great opportunity: “It’s interesting to be on this side of the table, as you said in my 16th fight, I challenged for the world title, challenged for the title again with Klitschko, then Parker, and now I’m challenging again, so this is my fourth title challenge in a short space of time. I’m used to being in this position, and even when you’re champion, I think Andy being a respected heavyweight he knows you have to have the challenge and mindset. All these quotes that these fighters come up with is reality, challenger mindset. I’ve said that previously when I had the belts around my waist. Now I’m speaking this into existence, this is my challenge and mindset. So I’m going back to my 16th fight, focused and determined on the goal.”

On feeling less pressure without the belts: “I’ve been boxing a while now, and when I came into boxing I didn’t really come to take part, I came to take over. I came with full force, fully committed. The focus has already been there, but never had a chance to reflect. It was European Championships, Olympics Championships, British Title, World Championships. I’m not here to put on show I’m here to win. I’ve been around the block for a short space of time, so you have to understand I’m experienced and know what I’m doing. Through reflection in my own time, me and Andy are very different, but like everyone in this room we have time. I just have to use my time and as soon as I got back from New York I got that commitment back, got into shape, I didn’t lose any heart, didn’t lose any fire in my belly, started hitting the heavy bag, preparing for this day. I’m actually really looking forward to it. No fear in my heart, no fear in my eyes. I’m just looking forward to putting on a show, and I’m confident.”

On how special a win will be: “I was asked if this will be a special moment and I said no because I know I belong there. It’s not special, I’ve been there, I know what I’m doing. When I regain those belts I will probably keep calm and stay focused. It’s not a time to celebrate, it’s time to keep that challenge, mindset and find the next target, so one by one I’m picking them off. I’ve been doing that since I started boxing and Ruiz is just my next target on my list.”

On fighting in Saudi Arabia: “This the Mecca of boxing I’m hearing. The real Mecca of boxing. I’m going to turn this into something special, a real event. As you can see we have put together a great undercard and a great show. I went to the venue, its perfect, perfectly designed, said my prayers, I took time to really embrace what’s going to happen Saturday. I’m just going in with confidence, and I want everyone to have that same confidence and have a great time.”

Manny Robles, Andy Ruiz’s trainer:

On defending belts: “It’s been three months of preparation which is something we didn’t have for the last fight. I’m very pleased to say we had a great camp, perfect sparring partners, perfect time, perfect time to prepare to come up with a better game plan. Understand we have a very difficult task in front of us. We respect him, and we know he’s a great fighter. We’re going to be ready for the task. Andy has a had a great camp, and mentally and physically prepared for the challenge. We look forward to it. I hope no one walks away disappointed Saturday night.”

On being a different fight this time around: “Absolutely it will be a different fight. We worked hard, we’re ready for the challenge. We’re taking this fight very seriously, we’ve been very tough on him, Andy knows it. He’s been focused, ready to go every day. We’re up to the challenge.”

Robert McCracken MBE, Anthony Joshua’s trainer:

On mindset going into this fight: “Anthony is in a much better place than last time at this stage, and I’m much happier with where he’s at. Everybody has said his training camp has gone really well. We’ve been training well out here in Saudi. Anthony has been training at the British Embassy, he’s got his own facility, and able to train diligently and hard. Listen we know how good Ruiz is, we know he’s a top heavyweight fighter, and he’s the champion. We’re totally confident, completely different mood going into this fight than back in New York. And I think you will see the real AJ for sure.”

On having more time to train: “For Andy Ruiz we had about five week notice for the last fight, at the same time Anthony’s opponent pulled out, so we had to restructure and change things, but with Ruiz’s ability that isn’t easy to do, but that isn’t a excuse. The right man won on the night, they both had 12 weeks to prepare for this fight, I think it’s a level playing field now. I think Anthony knows exactly what is in front of him, the sparring partners have been tailored to suit what Andy does. I think it you will see the real AJ on Saturday night and see a great performance.”

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Boxing Managing Director:

“We talked about our friend Neil Leifer who is here with us in Riyadh. Neil was on the canvas taking photos for the “Thrilla in Manila” and the “Rumble in Jungle” and on Saturday, he will be there for “Clash On The Dunes.” It will be another historic night for the sport of boxing and a heavyweight that will go down as one of the biggest ever. Andy Ruiz shocked the world in New York in June and now they enter this fight totally differently – Ruiz is the champion and Anthony Joshua is the challenger. This fight has everything.

“We were very close to going to Cardiff, and very close to taking this rematch back to Madison Square Garden in New York. We even looked at Mexico. I had finally made the decision to keep the fight in the UK but then I got the call from Saudi. I think I was quite rude at first actually, I told them not to waste their time because we were taking the fight to Cardiff. But the passion they had to bring this fight to Saudi Arabia was unmatched and within four or five days, we have an agreement to stage this fight here. Sometimes there was shock and criticism, but this was an absolutely wonderful decision. The hospitality from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been incredible. The fighters have had an amazing experience here with first class facilities being specifically built for them to prepare. The is a new dawn for the sport of boxing.

“We are thankful for our friends at DAZN. Just one year in, they have completely changed the face of boxing in America. Look at the names they have already brought to their wonderful platform: Anthony Joshua, Andy Ruiz, Oleksandr Usyk, Canelo Alvarez, Gennadiy Golovkin, and the list goes on and on. It is a wonderful time to be involved with the DAZN business and there’s such a bright future ahead for them.”

Adam Smith, Head of Sky Sports Boxing:

“There has been some magical and memorable nights of boxing on Sky watching so many greats. We then embarked on the journey with Anthony Joshua since he won his gold medal in London and he has been such a great ambassador for the sport.

“What a fight we had back in June and now how we love a rematch. This will be the biggest night for us of the year and we will make sure this dazzles in a wonderful new arena.

“What happens who knows! You cannot pick a winner.”

RIVERSIDE, CALIF. (Dec. 3, 2019): Vergil Ortiz Jr. (14-0, 14 KOs), WBA Gold Welterweight Champion, hosted a media workout yesterday at Robert Garcia Boxing Academy in Riverside, Calif. ahead of his 12-round fight against Brad “King” Solomon
(28-1, 9 KOs). The fight will take place Friday, Dec. 13 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif. and will be streamed live as part of fight season on DAZN.

Joshua Franco (15-1-2, 7 KOs) and Hector Tanajara Jr. (18-0, 5 KOs) also participated in the workout as they prepare to return on the undercard of Munguia vs O’Sullivan on Jan. 11 at the Alamodome in San Antonio and also live on DAZN.

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

VERGIL ORTIZ JR., WBA Gold Welterweight Champion:
“I feel like I’ve really shown that I belong in the top dogs. I feel like people are starting to recognize me a lot more, this was my breakout year and I’m going to break out even more next year. What I know about Brad Solomon, he’s a very experienced fighter, he has double the wins that I have. He’s crafty, he definitely brings something different to the table than my past fighters you know, he’s not going to stay in the ring, he’s going to want to make me miss, going to want to stick a move. We haven’t seen me fight someone like that in the professionals yet so everyone’s going to see how I do against a fighter like that. I’m ready to show people that I can fight any way, if I need to adjust then I can adjust. I haven’t had to make those adjustments yet. Some people say that I don’t move my head a lot, but I move my head a lot, especially in sparring. The thing is I haven’t needed to yet, I haven’t needed to do a lot of things in my fights yet because they’ve ended so early. There’s going to be a time when I’m going to need to use everything I have and that’s probably going to be one of my greatest fights. My work ethic comes from my dad pushing me this entire time. He’s really pushed me to not be satisfied with anything that I do, there’s always room for improvement, you can always work harder. A lot of my success has come from my dad.”

JOSHUA FRANCO, WBA International and NABF Bantamweight Champion:
“I came to that decision [to change weight] because of the past times that I’ve fought at 115lbs, I feel like I’m stronger at that weight, I feel like I have more power at that weight. I want to get a world title at 115lb right now, I’ll make the weight good with a good diet, and after that I’ll move right back up to 118lb and get a title right there. I’m really excited to finally fight in my hometown. I haven’t fought there since I was an amateur, so everybody back home is excited to see me. I’m excited myself to put on a great show for my fans and all my family so it’s going to be great.”

HECTOR TANAJARA JR., WBC USNBC Lightweight Champion:
“I’m ready to take on the next level, I already have 18 fights, it went by fast, but I feel like I’m ready for that next step and for whatever comes in 2020. Training here we’re all like a family. We all push each other. I always say sparring is tougher than the fights, that’s what makes the fights easy. We push each other in here we see one person going hard and it makes us go harder. If we see one person doing a little more, it makes us do a little more, it’s like a family affair. We all push each other naturally. I’m so excited to fight in the Alamodome, it’s my hometown. It’s the first time fighting back home since I’ve been pro. I’m really excited and motivated because now my family and friends, they don’t have excuses because it’s right there in the city so it’s going to be a good turnout and I’m just motivated. At this stage of my career, I feel like everything is coming together little by little. I’m going on five years of being pro and I feel like I’m becoming a complete fighter. In these next couple fights it’ll show, everything’s going to come together, and people are going to be real surprised.”

ROBERT GARCIA, Trainer of Ortiz Jr., Franco and Tanajara Jr.:
“Vergil is only 21 so he’s a very young fighter but at 21 he already has the strength, the mentality, the experience of a 27-year-old. He’s focused on one thing and that’s to become a world champion and to beat anybody in front of him. He’s one of the, if not the hardest working fighter I have in my gym, including all the world champions. He works his ass off. That’s one thing that he was raised to do, since he was a kid with his dad, his dad prepared him for one thing and that’s to be great in boxing. Little by little, he’s been growing and now he’s a professional, now he’s ready for any top fighter in the division. It was something his dad brought since they were kids to where they’re at now. We don’t want to rush him, we want to go fight by fight, especially right now at welterweight, we have to understand that a lot of the champions are fighting for other promotions and the fights are going to be very hard to negotiate. We’re not looking for any type of fight right now, we’re going fight by fight. if the right fight for a title comes maybe at a different weight division maybe we would consider it, but it would have to be the right fight against the right champion. At welterweight I don’t see any champion fighting Vergil in 2020. There’s no rush. The fans still haven’t seen the best of Vergil Ortiz.”

Ortiz Jr. vs. Solomon is a 12-round fight for the WBA Gold Welterweight Title presented by Golden Boy. The event is sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING,”
and Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle.” The event will take place Friday, Dec. 13 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif. and will be streamed live on DAZN.

Tickets for the event are on sale and are priced at $25, $35 and $45. Tickets will be available at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino box office, by calling 1-800-827-2946, or by purchasing online at www.FantasySpringsResort.com

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on
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