CLARESSA SHIELDS vs. IVANA HABAZIN RESCHEDULED FOR FRIDAY, JANUARY 10 LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

NEW YORK – November 15, 2019 – The long-awaited showdown between undisputed middleweight world champion Claressa Shields and former champion Ivana Habazin has been rescheduled for Friday, January 10 live on SHOWTIME from Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City, N.J. Shields and Habazin will face off for the vacant WBC and WBO 154-pound world titles as Shields attempts to make history as the fastest fighter in boxing, male or female, to become a three-division world champion. 

Shields and Habazin were scheduled to fight on October 5 in Flint, Mich. The bout was called off less than 36 hours from the opening bell following an altercation at the official weigh-in that resulted in an injury to Habazin’s trainer, James Ali Bashir. This is the third date for Shields and Habazin. They were first scheduled to meet on August 17 before Shields withdrew due to a minor knee injury. 

The January 10 SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature a WBA Super Lightweight World Title Eliminator between Shohjahon Ergashev (17-0, 15 KOs) and Keith Hunter (11-0, 7 KOs). The winner becomes the mandatory challenger for WBA Super Lightweight World Championship currently held by Mario Barrios.

Shields vs. Habazin is promoted by Salita Promotions in association with T-REX BOXING PROMOTIONS. Ergashev vs. Hunter is promoted in association with Greg Cohen Promotions. Ticket information for the live event will be announced next week.

The 24-year-old Shields (9-0, 2 KOs) became the undisputed middleweight champion with a near-shutout victory over previously undefeated world champion Christina Hammer in April on SHOWTIME. In doing so, the two-division titlist joined Terrence Crawford, Jermain Taylor, Bernard Hopkins, Oleksandr Usyk and Cecilia Braekhus as the only fighters to have unified all four major world titles in any weight class (Katie Taylor has since joined the prestigious list). On January 10, Shields will seek to make even more history in her sixth headlining appearance on SHOWTIME. With a win over Habazin, Shields would become a three-division champion in just 10 bouts, breaking the record of Vasiliy Lomachenko and Kosei Tanaka, who both accomplished the feat in 12 fights.

“My goal is to become three-division champ faster than any man or woman in history,” Shields said.  “This is a very significant fight for both of us. We have both trained really hard twice and great opportunities await the winner, so hopefully three times is the charm.”

Habazin (20-3, 7 KOs), of Zagreb, Croatia, is ranked No. 1 by the WBO at 154 pounds. The 30-year-old, who will be making her U.S. debut, won the IBF Welterweight Title over Sabrina Giuliani in 2014. In her next fight, Habazin dropped a unanimous decision to Braekhus in a historic unification bout where Braekhus picked up all four major world title belts. Most recently, Habazin avenged one of only three losses in her career to Eva Bajic in Zagreb.

Habazin will train in her native Croatia and has dedicated the fight to Bashir.

“I’ve been thinking about this since October and I have more of an incentive now given what happened,” Habazin said. “I feel like I’m fighting for James Ali Bashir, as well as for my own pride and respect. I’m also fighting for my country. I want to make Croatia proud that I am their daughter, and I feel that I now have their full support. Claressa is just a brief stop on my journey. I have bigger dreams and bigger shoes to fill in my life. I’m on my way to fulfilling my personal legend – being crowned the undisputed women’s junior middleweight champion. This is just another step on that journey. Given my faith, I feel that while what happened in October was incredibly unfortunate, this was God’s plan.  And I have faith that my hand will be raised in victory in January.”

Shields was the first American boxer in history – male or female – to win consecutive Olympic gold medals. She turned professional following the 2016 Olympics and headlined the first women’s boxing main event in premium television history in just her second professional fight in 2017.  Shields became unified women’s super middleweight world champion in just her fourth professional fight, and a two-division champion in her sixth professional contest.  She was crowned the undisputed 160-pound champion in her ninth fight, less than three years after turning professional following the 2016 Olympics. 

“January 10 is going to be an important date in boxing history as Claressa continues her unprecedented journey toward greatness,” said Dmitriy Salita, President of Salita Promotions. “A win over Ivana Habazin would make Claressa – in just her tenth fight – the fastest boxer ever to acquire world title belts in three weight categories. But a very determined, skilled and experienced boxer stands in her way, and Ivana is pursuing her own world championship dream. History will be claimed in the ring on January 10 at the Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City and live on SHOWTIME.”

“With five world titles in just nine professional fights, Claressa Shields has been making women’s boxing history at a record pace,” said manager Mark Taffet.  “Now, in her 10th fight on January 10, she seeks to win a world title in a third weight division faster than any man or woman in history, and in remarkable fashion by going down in weight each time. Claressa continues to render the impossible possible. It’s truly Herstory.”

“Ocean is proud to host Shields vs. Habazin inside Ovation Hall this January,” said Michael Donovan, Chief Marketing Officer and Senior Vice President, Ocean Casino Resort Atlantic City. “We are excited to bring world class boxing to Atlantic City and look forward to more shows in 2020.”

Hard-hitting super lightweight Shohjahon Ergashev (17-0, 15 KOs), of Uzbekistan, is ranked in the top-15 in three of the four major sanctioning bodies.  The 27-year-old Ergashev is coming off an impressive fourth round knockout of veteran Abdiel Ramirez this past August on ShoBox: The New Generation.  In his previous appearances on the prospect developmental series, the former member of the Uzbek national team scored a third round knockout against then top-10 rated Sonny Fredrickson, and a 10-round unanimous decision over previously unbeaten Mykal Fox.  The hard-hitting southpaw currently trains in Detroit with Javan “Sugar” Hill at the new Kronk Gym with stablemate Vladimir Shishkin. 

“My goal is to be the junior welterweight champion of the world in 2020,” Ergashev said.  “After I win this fight I will be just one step away from realizing my dream of bringing the world title home to my country Uzbekistan.”

The 27-year-old Hunter is ranked No. 12 in the WBA.  A native of Las Vegas, the 6-foot Hunter will make his national television debut against the first undefeated opponent of his career.  Hunter, who is the younger brother of former Olympian Michael Hunter, trains at Bones Adams Gym in Las Vegas and is co-managed by former heavyweight champion Hasim Rahman. 

“I’m looking forward to making my national television debut on Showtime,” said Keith “The Bounty” Hunter. “Boxing is in my blood and January 10 will be my chance to take my career to the next level. Ergashev has a bounty on his head, I’m here to collect!”

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




EXCITING UNDERCARD LINEUP FEATURES RISING PROSPECTS IN ACTION SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23 FROM THE MGM GRAND GARDEN ARENA IN LAS VEGAS

LAS VEGAS (November 15, 2019) – An action-packed lineup of undercard attractions will enter the ring on Saturday, November 23 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in support of the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View event headlined by boxing’s longest reigning heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder defending his WBC title in a rematch against once-beaten Cuban slugger Luis “King Kong” Ortiz.

The non-televised fights will stream live on PBC on FOX Youtube, Twitter and Facebook pages beginning at 4:10 p.m. ET/1:10 p.m. PT from inside the MGM Grand Garden Arena.

Entering the ring will be Huntington Park, California’s José Manuel Gómez (11-0, 4 KOs) in an eight-round super featherweight fight against Miami’s Daniel Placeres (8-2-1, 7 KOs), Ukraine’s Viktor Slavinskyi (10-0-1, 6 KOs) competing in an eight-round super featherweight contest against Mexico’s Rigoberto Hermosillo (11-1-1, 8 KOs) and the younger brother of heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder competes as Marsellos Wilder (5-1, 2 KOs) steps in for a six-round cruiserweight bout against Tennessee’s Dustin Long (2-1-2, 2 KOs).

The action continues with a pair of Dallas-natives as lightweight Arnold Alejandro (11-0, 10 KOs) battles the Philippines’ John Gemino (20-12-1, 10 KOs) for an eight-round duel and featherweight Angel Alejandro (7-0, 4 KOs) steps in for a six-round fight against Mexico’s Francisco Javier Rodriguez (5-1, 3 KOs), plus unbeaten Denver-native Shon Mondragon (4-0, 2 KOs) takes on Nicaragua’s Juan Centeno (4-3-1, 1 KO) in a six-round super bantamweight affair.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by BombZquad Promotions, TGB Promotions and Mayweather Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at www.mgmgrand.com or www.axs.com.

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ABOUT WILDER VS. ORTIZ II
Wilder vs. Ortiz II will see boxing’s longest reigning heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder defending his WBC title in a rematch against once-beaten Cuban slugger Luis “King Kong” Ortiz Saturday, November 23 in FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View action live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Three-division champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz seeks a title in another division when he takes on Miguel “El Michoacan” Flores for the WBA Super Featherweight Championship in the co-main event.

Pay-per-view action begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and also features undefeated rising star Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa making the first defense of his WBA Super Bantamweight Title against former champion Julio Ceja while undefeated Mexican power-puncher Luis Nery battles Puerto Rico’s Emmanuel Rodríguez in a matchup of former bantamweight champions.

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




TYSON IS A NUMBER ONE BEST SELLER

TYSON FURY’S brutally honest autobiography soared to number one in the Amazon best-selling book charts within 24 hours of release.

‘Behind the Mask: My Autobiography’ tells the story of Britain’s number one sportsman as he defied the odds and went from becoming World Heavyweight champion in November 2015 to the brink of suicide.

Fury’s TV appearances this week has seen the unbeaten boxer’s popularity grow further as he opened his heart during a procession of interviews where he discussed his mental health problems.

Fury, 31, is currently on a whistle stop tour to promote the explosive book ahead of a scheduled rematch against WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder, following their draw in Los Angeles almost 12 months ago.

It was a remarkable performance from Fury who lifted himself off the floor in round 12 when he looked to have been knocked out by Wilder, producing one of boxing’s most magical moments ever.

Since his comeback in June 2018 following a layoff of nearly 1000 days, Fury has been promoted by Frank Warren.

Warren is stunned to have witnessed and delighted to be involved in one of the greatest comebacks in boxing history.

The Hall of Fame promoter said: “I was in touch with Tyson during all of his well documented troubles.

“When he asked me to bring him back we could only dream he would be an author of a best selling book and drawn against Deontay Wilder in only his third comeback fight – a fight where he deserved the decision.

“It’s an absolute testament to the resilient character he is to have battled back from this adversity to become the biggest star in British sport.”

Despite Tyson’s recent WWE appearance and trips around Britain promoting his best-seller, Fury will soon be back in training preparing for February’s showdown against Wilder.

Warren added: “The next thing to do is to defeat Wilder in their big rematch and continue one of the greatest comeback stories in modern sporting history.

“If he beats Wilder he can go on and unify the world heavyweight titles. That would top what is already something very special.”




EDWARDS AND BRAITHWAITE COLLIDE AT COPPER BOX

SUNNY EDWARDS GETS his shot at the British super flyweight title when he takes on English champion Marcel Braithwaite for the vacant belt at the Copper Box Arena on December 21.

‘Showtime’ Sunny has already accumulated the WBO European, WBO International and IBF International titles at super flyweight, as well as the IBF International and WBO Intercontinental at flyweight in his 13 fights as a professional, while impressing the fans and BT viewers with his slick, speedy and slippery style, along with his sparky persona.

The 23-year-old has craved another domestic showdown since he put a big marker down in the division with a comprehensive schooling of the experienced former European champion Ryan Farrag in October 2018 and now it is another fighter from Liverpool looking to put a dent in his perfect record.

Braithwaite, 25, won his English belt by beating Craig Derbyshire for the second time in October and holds a record of 9-1 as a professional.

“I couldn’t be more happy, to be honest,” said Edwards on the British title match being made. “I had sort of given up on the prospect of fighting for the British title any time soon, which is why I made the move down to flyweight with a view towards world titles sooner rather than later.

“Then a few months ago Marcel called me out and then won the English title so it has all worked out that I finish the year with a British title shot. I have really been in the No.1 position for the last year at least.

“I wanted a fun fight, there is a bit of needle there and I think I am going to show complete levels. There will be very few people backing against me for this one but, at the same time, he is lively, he wants to have a go and this is his chance at the big time.

“He is going from boxing on small hall shows on small YouTube channels to boxing on BT Sport and he has got me to thank for that,” added Edwards, who went on to explain the backstory behind the spikey social media exchanges between the pair.

“He got offered the fight in June for July, I think it was. They turned it down and then a couple of weeks later he puts on Twitter that I am saying nobody will fight me and he will fight me before the end of the year.

“I went ‘fair enough’ and had my fights before he beat Craig Derbyshire – on a split decision – and now what he said is coming to fruition.

“Me and him actually used to be friends and shared rooms together on Team England and would support each other. Then, one day, he unfollowed me on Instagram because apparently I don’t like enough of his pictures.

“He has called me a bitch and I think he just got a bit excited with his little leather belt. On December 21 it will be a reality check for him and I just hope that no ghost injuries come out of nowhere and there is no U-turn.

“Like I said, he has got me to thank for this because the purse he is getting isn’t because he is Marcel Braithwaite, it is because he is fighting Sunny Edwards.

“For me, he is just a bang average fighter who is getting the opportunity just because he is British and nobody else wants it.”

For his part, Braithwaite sought to play down the discord and heaped praise on the accomplishments of his former amateur teammate.

“I’ve just won the English title so it is great to be straight in and it would be some story to beat him,” said the former bantamweight. “I am fighting against a world-ranked boxer, who has boxed internationally as an amateur and is expected to be the next big thing.

“It is a massive fight and one people want to see as well,” he continued, before explaining why he labelled Edwards a ‘bitch’ in a recent interview.

“What it was, a few months ago he claimed nobody would fight him for the British and I said in the most respectful way that I would. With that he just started talking bad about me and I didn’t understand why.

“If he genuinely wanted an opponent and someone said they would fight him, I thought he would be grateful. It wasn’t the case, so that is what it was about.

“I have never actually had a problem with him. I’ve heard what he’s said about Instagram and that is sly because nothing like that bothers me and I wouldn’t be that petty.

“I’ve always wished him well and been quite the fan of him. He is good to watch.

“I am a massive underdog and I’m not expected to win. Imagine if I did win! A Golden Ticket it would be.

“I want to keep things respectful, but whether he wants to is another thing. I am just looking forward to it, I have got a massive opportunity in front of me and I can only be grateful for it.

“Fighting at the Copper Box live on BT is what dreams are about. It is what you imagine as a kid when you think about being a professional boxer. Live on BT alongside big names like Daniel Dubois – it is massive and I am going to enjoy every second of it.”

Frank Warren’s Queensberry Promotions are heading to the Copper Box Arena to stage a bumper night of boxing on December 21st, which features the British super flyweight title showdown between Sunny Edwards and Marcel Braithwaite.
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.

Light Heavyweight prospect and Love Island star Tommy Fury (2-0) makes 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 will be available via Ticketmaster shortly

Ticket prices:

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




THANDERZ HAS STAR SUPPORT FROM BOXING LEGEND MARTINEZ

Katharina Thanderz (12-0, 2 KOs) will have star support from Argentinian boxing legend Sergio Martinez when she meets Danila Ramos (8-1, 1 KO) for the interim WBC World Super Featherweight title on November 16th in Oslo.

The former two-weight World Champion will be ringside as Thanderz looks to capture her first World title in front of her home fans at the Ekeberghallen.

“It means a lot to me that Sergio will be there,” says Thanderz. “He always promised that he would be there when I fought for my first World title and he hasn’t forgotten. I couldn’t believe it when he texted me a picture of his flights to show he was coming. I was very happy and got very emotional.”

Before signing for Team Sauerland, Thanderz fought under Martinez’s Maravillabox promotional banner, and the 31 year-old admits the former WBC and WBO champion has been a influential figure in her boxing career.

“He is a big inspiration for me. Not only because of his success as a boxer but also because of his whole life story, which is really special and unique,” she says. “He is the perfect example of the fact that you can achieve whatever you want in life with hard work and self-belief, even when starting from the very bottom.

“He started boxing when he was 20 years old and went all the way to the top winning World title fights more than 10 times. He grew up in a very poor family, and overcame a lot of adversity in life. It’s impossible not to get inspired with his story. He’s also an excellent human being, and so humble. I really appreciate and value his friendship.

“He always gives me a lot of advice, and takes an interest in watching my sparring videos to tell me his point of view. He never talks about specific techniques, but helps me a lot with the mental part of boxing, mental strategies, and the tactical part, which he thinks is the most important part of the game. He’s extremely intelligent, and understanding his philosophy helps me a lot.”

“In her most important fight, it’s a pleasure for me to be able to be there with Katharina to witness her World coronation,” says Martinez. “For me it is a tremendous honour to know her and to have been able to work with her. The most beautiful thing about Katharina, apart from being an excellent athlete, is her quality as a person. She’s a fantastic woman. I love and respect her a lot. I will be there supporting her. She really deserves that.”

Katharina Thanderz headlines a huge show at the historic Ekeberghallen as she faces Danila Ramos for the interim WBC Female World Super Featherweight crown, while Kai Robin Havnaa looks to bolster his World title claim in a crunch cruiserweight clash with Mariano Angel Gudino, and top talents Kevin Melhus, Alexander Hagen, Bernard Torres and Kent Erik Baadstad complete an action-packed card in the Norwegian capital.

Tickets are available online via www.ticketmaster.no. All the action will be available to watch live across Viasat 4, Viasport + and Viaplay in Norway.




CAPITAL SHOWDOWN – OFFICIAL WEIGHTS FROM OSLO

Katharina Thanderz (12-0, 2 KOs) and Danila Ramos (8-1, 1 KO) both made weight today ahead of their interim WBC Female World Super Featherweight title fight tomorrow night at the Ekeberghallen in Oslo, Norway.

Thanderz gets her first taste of World title action as she tops an action-packed card at the historic Oslo venue that also features Norway’s number one male boxer Kai Robin Havnaa (15-0, 13 KOs) in a crunch cruiserweight clash against Argentina’s Mariano Angel Gudino (13-3, 8 KOs).

WBC Interim World Super Featherweight Championship:
Katharina Thanderz: 58.6kg
Danila Ramos: 58.1kg

Cruiserweight – 10 Rounds:
Kai Robin Havnaa: 90.5kg
Mariano Angel Gudino: 90.7kg

Cruiserweight – 6 Rounds:
Kevin Melhus: 89.7kg
Ossie Jervier: 89.9kg

Light Heavyweight – 8 Rounds: 
Alexander Hagen: 79.3kg
Emmanuel Feuzeu: 80.7kg

Super Featherweight – 8 Rounds:
Bernard Torres: 58.3kg
Christian Lopez Florez: 58.5kg

Cruiserweight – 6 Rounds:
Kent Erik Baadstad: 91.7kg
Istvan Kun: 90.6kg

Tickets are available online via www.ticketmaster.no. All the action will be available to watch live across Viasat 4, Viasport + and Viaplay in Norway.




HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION DEONTAY WILDER RECALLS GREATEST REMATCHES IN BOXING HISTORY AHEAD OF HIGHLY ANTICIPATED SEQUEL AGAINST LUIS ORTIZ

LAS VEGAS (November 15, 2019) – Boxing’s longest reigning heavyweight champion, Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder broke down and relived historic rematches of boxing lore as he nears his own rematch against Cuban slugger Luis “King Kong” Ortiz in the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View main event Saturday, November 23 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Watch the whole video HERE as Wilder gives his thoughts on boxing rematches such as Ali-Frazier III, Holyfield-Tyson II, Pacquiao vs. Marquez IV and more.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by BombZquad Promotions, TGB Promotions and Mayweather Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at www.mgmgrand.com or www.axs.com.

Wilder passed the only rematch test of his career so far with flying colors, stopping Bermane Stiverne in the first round of their 2017 duel, after Wilder originally taking the title from Stiverne by decision in 2015. On November 23, Wilder will look to carve out his place in the history of great boxing rematches and rivalries by giving fans another memorable title defense.

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ABOUT WILDER VS. ORTIZ II
Wilder vs. Ortiz II will see boxing’s longest reigning heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder defending his WBC title in a rematch against once-beaten Cuban slugger Luis “King Kong” Ortiz Saturday, November 23 in FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View action live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Three-division champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz seeks a title in another division when he takes on Miguel “El Michoacan” Flores for the WBA Super Featherweight Championship in the co-main event.

Pay-per-view action begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and also features undefeated rising star Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa making the first defense of his WBA Super Bantamweight Title against former champion Julio Ceja while undefeated Mexican power-puncher Luis Nery battles Puerto Rico’s Emmanuel Rodríguez in a matchup of former bantamweight champions.

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




‘DYNAMITE’ DUBOIS COMPARES HIMSELF TO GRIZZLY BEAR AS HE ROARS “FUJIMOTO NEEDS TO BE CAREFUL”

One day after Christmas opponent Kyotaro Fujimoto compared Daniel Dubois to a bear, and unveiled a man in a panda suit as his sparring partner, ‘Dynamite’ has warned that “Fujimoto needs to be careful”.

Referencing his foes taunts, Daniel continued “He might be expecting a panda, but what he’ll get is a grizzly.”

“He says he wants to change his life and make a name for himself. That’s not a problem. On December 21st, I’ll make him famous.”

Dubois, 13-0 with 12 KO’s, has the credentials to do just that and is coming off a stunning first round stoppage over previously undefeated Ghanaian Ebenezer Tetteh.

Danel admitted that he didn’t “fully understand” the reasons behind Fujimoto’s bizarre press conference performance, but later added “it won’t matter once I knock him out.”

The heavyweight battle between Dubois and Fujimoto won’t just be for festive bragging rights, but for the WBO International Heavyweight title as well as the WBC Silver Title, previously held by Dillian Whyte.

Despite planning an assault on a world title in the near future, Daniel is eager to let his Japanese opponent know that he is taking this next fight seriously.

He said: “‘I hope he doesn’t think we’re taking this fight lightly, or that we think it’s an easy win. He’s the #12 ranked heavyweight with the WBA and is clearly a very good fighter.”

“Preparation is key with all these things. We are bringing world class sparring in from America, people i’ve never sparred before.”

But with experts predicting the break-up of the Heavyweight belts in 2020, it is hard for talk not to return to World Championships.

When pushed on his intentions Dubois insisted: “I’m laser focused, i’m ready for Fujimoto” but did admit that he intended to “use this fight as a stepping stone to rise up the rankings, and set my sights on a world title”

Away from bear chat, Kyotaro was also keen to let the world know that he was willing to channel the spirit of fictional fighter Rocky Balboa to get the win against his heavy-hitting and much younger opponent.

When asked about that quote particularly, Daniel responded: “He thinks he’s going to be Rocky Balboa? if he starts getting hit with the type of shots Rocky got hit with in the films then it’s going to be a short night.”

With tensions continuing to rise between the two fighters, the Copper Box Arena is sure to be nothing less than a bear pit for ‘The Fight Before Christmas’ on December 21st.

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Frank Warren’s Queensberry Promotions are heading to the Copper Box Arena to stage a bumper night of boxing on December 21st.

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.

Light Heavyweight prospect and Love Island star Tommy Fury (2-0) makes 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  




Split-T Management’s Ivan Golub and Ardreal Holmes in action TONIGHT!!in Utah

NEW YORK (November 15, 2019)–Tonight, two Members of the Split-T Management banner will be in action at The Salt Palace in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Once-beaten welterweight Ivan Golub takes on Janer Gonzalez in a ten-round contest for the WBC USNBC Welterweight title, while undefeated super welterweight Ardreal Holmes battles Jose Antonio Abreu in a eight-round bout.

Photo Credit_ Mason McEwen_DiBella Entertainment

Golub of Brooklyn, New York via Goravoka, Ukraine is 17-1 with 13 knockouts. The hard punching Golub is on a four-fight winning streak and over his five-year career, the 30 year-old has wins over Kirk Huff (3-0), Tyson Harrison (2-0), Juan Rodriguez Jr (12-3), Marlon Aguas (9-0), James Stevenson (23-2), and in Golub’s last bout he stopped Joaquim Cameiro on August 1st in Monroeville, PA.

Gonzalez of Colombia has wins over Victor Coronado (4-1), Devis Caceres (14-2) and Carlos Galven (9-1-1). the former Colombian and WBC Latino Super Welterweight champion, Gonzalez is coming off a loss to world ranked Jamal James on February 23rd in Minneapolis.

Golub weighed in at 146,2 lbs and Gonzalez weighed in at 149.4 lbs. Gonzalez is ineligible to win the title.

Holmes of Flint, Michigan, has a record of 10-0 with four knockouts. Holmes, who was a heralded amateur, was a National Golden Gloves Finalist, and has a win over Bryan Goldsby (4-1). Holmes is coming off an eight-round unanimous decision over veteran Walter Wright on October 11 in Warren, Michigan.

Photo Credit_ Ardreal Holmes Facebook Page

Abreu of La Romana, Dominican Republic has a record of 14-6 with eight knockouts.

The 31 year-old Abreu has quality wins on his resume over Jose Eduardo Souza (1-0-1), Euri Ginzalez (24-6-1) and Wesley Tucker (14-2).

Abreu is coming off a defeat to Eric Walker on August 1st in Monroeville, PA.

Holmes was 155.4 lbs. Abreu was 158.4 lbs at Thursday’s weigh-in

Golub is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Fight Promotions. Holmes is promoted by DiBella Entertainment.

The fights can be seen live on UFC Fight Pass beginning at 11 PM ET.




OFFICIAL WEIGHTS: DILMAGHANI-FONSECA & NEVIN-FONSECA

London, UK (15 November 2019) Here are the official weights from today’s weigh-in for this Saturday’s Hennessy Sports World Championship Boxing event at The York Hall, Bethnal Green, headlined by Alex Dilmaghani v Francisco Fonseca for the Vacant IBO World Super-Featherweight Championship and John Joe Nevin v Freddy Fonseca for the Vacant WBA International Super-Featherweight Championship:

The Vacant IBO World Super-Featherweight Championship
12 x 3 Minute Rounds at 9st 4lbs (130lbs)

Alex Dilmaghani
Crayford, England
9st 3lb 8oz (129.8lbs)

vs.

Francisco Fonseca
Managua, Nicaragua
9st 3lb 5oz (129.5lb)

The Vacant WBA International Super-Featherweight Championship
10 x 3 Minute Rounds at 9st 4lbs (130lbs)

John Joe Nevin
Mullingar, Ireland
9st 3lb 2oz (129.2lb)

vs.

Freddy Fonseca
Managua, Nicaragua
9st 3lb 6oz (129.6lb)

6×3 Minute Rounds Middleweight Contest

Michael Hennessy Jnr.
Sevenoaks, England
11st 5lb 8oz (159.8lb)

vs.

Richard Baba
Szeged, Hungary
11st 5lb 6oz (159.6lb)

Promoted by Mick Hennessy in association with Infinitum, Channel 5 and Priority Promotions, Dilmaghani v Fonseca will be televised exclusively live in the UK on free-to-air Channel 5 and 5Spike.

Headline attraction on the card features Alex Dilmaghani versus Francisco Fonseca for the Vacant IBO Super-Featherweight Championship. Chief support sees an exciting clash between Irish star John Joe Nevin v Freddy Fonseca for the WBA International Super-Featherweight Championship. A packed and top quality undercard also features: Fast rising Sevenoaks middleweight talent Michael Hennessy Jnr; Stockwell welterweight Samuel Antwi; Welsh super-featherweight Rhys Edwards; Chelsea Lightweight Connor Marsden; two London based Romanians: super-welterweight Flavius Biea and heavyweight Lucian Atani; Basildon super-lightweight Lewis Smith; Islington middleweight Billy Underwood; Luton super-lightweight Jahid Munim and Islington featherweight Alizara Ghadiri.

Tickets are available from MyFightTickets: https://myfighttickets.com/shop-1?olsPage=products%2Fhennessy-york-hall

DILMAGHANI V FONSECA HIT THE HEADLINES
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TURF WARS Boxing brothers Freddie and Francisco Fonseca dress as Kray twins as they look to rule East London at York Hall event

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Alex Dilmaghani & John Joe Nevin targeted by ‘The new Krays’

Radio Times
How to watch Alex Dilmaghani v Francisco Fonseca

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ALI-ESQUE John Joe Nevin believes he has the ability to emulate Muhammad Ali with world title fight at Croke Park

The Stat Zone
Alex Dilmaghani v Francisco Fonseca preview and prediction

World Boxing News
Alex Dilmaghani looks forward to Francisco Fonseca clash

Boxing Insider
Alex Dilmaghani: “Luckily For Me, I’m able to fight extremely well”

Boxing Scene
Dilmaghani Motivated To Topple Fonseca, Face Other Champions

15 Rounds
Alex Dilmaghani: I’m ready to go again right now

Boxing Monthly
Avoided like the plague: Alex Dilmaghani interview

British Boxers
Dilmaghani vs Fonseca grudge fight is back on!

Ringside Report
Ringside Report Takes a Closer Look at Boxer Alex Dilmaghani




ONE CHAMPIONSHIP AND THE GLOBAL ASSOCIATION OF MIXED MARTIAL ARTS HOST 2019 GAMMA WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP IN SINGAPORE THIS 18-23 NOVEMBER

15 November 2019 – Singapore: The largest global sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship™ (ONE), in partnership with the Global Association of Mixed Martial Arts (GAMMA), is set to host the 2019 GAMMA World Championship this 18-23 November at the Singapore Indoor Stadium. The event brings together over 40 teams from GAMMA member nations consisting of world-class amateur mixed martial arts athletes and coaches.

Chatri Sityodtong, Chairman and CEO of ONE Championship, stated: “ONE Championship is excited to host the 2019 GAMMA World Championship in Singapore this 18-23 November. As the world’s largest martial arts organization, we are committed to providing all amateur mixed martial arts athletes the opportunity to showcase their skills on the largest most prestigious global platform for martial arts competition. Working with GAMMA in this initiative is very important for us here at ONE Championship. Our athletes are the very foundation of the sport, who inspire the world with their incredible stories, and stand as role models for society. As a lifelong martial artist, I am personally invested in ensuring that all athletes have the right support to pursue a viable professional career in the mixed martial arts industry.”

Teams from over 40 countries have been confirmed to participate in the tournament, including over 300 top amateur athletes and 100 coaches.

Athletes will be competing for national pride in the discipline of mixed martial arts across 16 weight divisions, both male and female. At the end of the tournament, the top male and female athletes will earn a contract with ONE Championship worth USD $100,000 each. In addition, the winner of each weight division will earn a one year training scholarship at Evolve MMA, Asia’s premier championship brand for martial arts.

For more updates on ONE Championship, please visit www.onefc.com, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @ONEChampionship, and like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ONEChampionship.

About ONE Championship™
ONE Championship (ONE) is the largest global sports media property in Asian history, and the largest producer of millennial live sports content in Asia. Headquartered in Singapore, ONE is the Home of Martial Arts, and is the world’s largest martial arts organization, hosting bouts across all styles of martial arts such as Muay Thai, Kickboxing, Karate, Kung Fu, Silat, Sanda, Lethwei, Mixed Martial Arts, Tae Kwon Do, Submission Grappling, and more. ONE hosts the biggest sports entertainment events across Asia, featuring some of the world’s best martial artists and world champions on the largest global media broadcast in Asia. ONE Esports, a subsidiary of ONE Championship, runs Asia’s largest global esports Championship Series with some of the biggest blockbuster game titles in the world. In addition to its digital platforms, ONE Championship broadcasts to over 2.6 billion potential viewers across 140+ countries with some of the largest global broadcasters, including Fox Sports, ABS-CBN, Astro, ClaroSports, Startimes, Thairath TV, Skynet, Mediacorp, Great Sports, Tencent, Star TV, Mediaset Italia, ProSiebenSat.1, Dubai Sports, Turner Sports, and more.




Amilcar Vidal and Zach Prieto Both Predicting Slugfest When They Square Off This Friday on ShoBox: The New Generation From WinnaVegas Casino in Sloan, Iowa

SLOAN, IOWA – November 14, 2019 – Uruguayan knockout artist Amilcar Vidal (9-0, 8 KOs) and El Paso’s Zach Prieto (9-0, 7 KOs) are both predicting an all-action affair in their upcoming eight-round middleweight bout.

The two power punchers will collide this Friday, November 15, in the opening bout of a ShoBox: The New Generation tripleheader (10:30 p.m. ET/PT) from the WinnaVegas Casino in Sloan, Iowa.

In the 10-round main event, undefeated Erik Vega (16-0, 9 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico, will face 2016 Olympian and decorated amateur Alberto Palmetta (12-1, 8 KOs) of Argentina; and hard-hitting Marcos Escudero (10-0, 9 KOs), also of Argentina, will take on Houston’s Joseph George (9-0, 6 KOs) in the 10-round light heavyweight co-feature.

The event is promoted by Sampson Boxing in association with Paco Presents. Tickets, starting at $10, are on sale now and available at www.WinnaVegas.com.

23-year-old Vidal, from Montevideo, spent his training camp working primarily with older brother Richard Vidal and up-and-coming head coach Freddy Fundora at Fundora’s private gym in Coachella, Calif.

Vidal, who will be fighting for the first time in the U.S., said working with his team and sparring with undefeated welterweight contender Sebastian Fundora gave him the perfect preparations for his big opportunity. “I had great sparring and a perfect camp,” said Vidal. “This is a very important fight for my career and my growth as a professional fighter. It’s a chance for me to demonstrate I can compete at this level. I feel more motivated than ever fighting in the U.S.”

Vidal has only gone the distance once in his young career. In his most recent fight, he scored a dominant unanimous decision over Argentina’s Nicolas Luques Palacios for the WBC Latino Middleweight Championship in May. The South American slugger says he’s eager to start another extended knockout streak against Prieto.

“I’m always looking for the knockout and I will be Friday night. Prieto is a strong guy, but I trust my team and my training to carry me through to the devastating win. I always knew all my hard work would pay off. I’m not sure exactly how it will go in the ring, but I can adapt to any style and get them out of there. This is my dream come true and I will make the most of it.”

27-year-old Prieto says having the proper time to train with former fighter and renowned trainer Louis Burke at the Las Cruces, New Mexico PAL has made him more prepared for this fight than any he’s ever been in.

Training in Las Cruces has also put him in frequent contact with former world champion and hometown hero Austin Trout, who has been sharing advice with the young prospect.

“Camp went great,” said Prieto. “I’ve never had an opportunity to see film and come up with a strategy for an opponent before. We were able to work on a couple things we want to execute. Austin talked to me about a lot of things too, like about fundamentals, how to keep your composure and how to walk in without reaching. He also showed me how to stay active with the jab and assess distance and told me to stay calm and focused under the bright lights. I have a great team behind me.”

The son of a retired El Paso police officer, Prieto says that many of his hometown fans will be having watch parties when he steps in the ring Friday night. While he won’t commit to a prediction in the fight, he says his aggression and pressure will eventually wilt the Uruguayan.

“Vidal has got some reach and knows how to use it, but I’ve fought guys taller than him before in the amateurs and even in the pros. I’m comfortable with taller opponents. This sport puts you in dangerous places and tests you. That’s what I love about it. I’m going in there ready for whatever comes and hopefully I land the right punches to set the guy back. I just want to pick my targets and see how much damage I can cause. I’m ready.”

#

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

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

CONTACTS:
SHOWTIME Sports: (212) 708-1339
Steve Pratt, BZA PR for SHOWTIME: (310) 408-4555
Andre Courtemanche, Sampson Boxing: (954) 302-2462
About Sampson Boxing

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




PABLO CESAR CANO VS. ROBERTO ORTIZ FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTE

GUANAJUATO, MEXICO (Nov. 14, 2019): Pablo Cesar “El Demoledor”
Cano (32-7-1, 22 KOs) and Roberto “Massa” Ortiz (35-4-2, 26 KOs) hosted their final press conference today at Quince Restaurante Bar in Guanajuato, Mexico ahead of their 10-round fight for Cano’s WBC International Silver Super Lightweight Title. The action takes place this Saturday, Nov. 16 on the latest edition of Golden Boy Fight Night on Facebook Watch at The Plaza De Toros San Miguel De Allende in Guanajuato, Mexico. The fights will be streamed globally on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page.

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

PABLO CESAR CANO, WBC International Silver Super Lightweight Champion:
“Some of you may already know me, but the rest of you will have the pleasure of getting to know me this Saturday. I’m very happy to be here in Guanajuato. It’s not my first time fighting here. It’s my second time here. We’ve come very prepared and motivated. We are also very concentrated on this fight as it is very important for my career. I want to dedicate this fight to all of the people here.”

ROBERTO ORTIZ, Super Lightweight Contender:
“I want to thank my promoters, Roberto Diaz and Memo Rocha for giving me the opportunity to step in the ring again. I know it’s a great opportunity. It’s an opportunity to get to the top of the division. I’ve been very concentrated and prepared. I have been visualizing the fight and the victory. I’ve prepared very well with Joel and Antonio Diaz, so make sure you don’t miss this big night of boxing at the Plaza de Toros!”

RICARDO SANDOVAL, Flyweight Contender:
“I’m very happy and grateful to be fighting here. The truth is that it’s my first time fighting here. Tomorrow we will weigh-in and Saturday we will give everything. I’ve very concentrated and prepared for this fight. God willing we will get the victory, so don’t miss it this Saturday because it’s going to be a great one.”

GILBERO GONZALEZ, Flyweight Contender:
“This is going to be a great event. I want to thank Golden Boy for this opportunity. I want to thank thus great city for opening its doors for me. This will be a great fight, and a win will open many doors for me, so expect a great show.”

SULEM URBINA, Super Flyweight Contender:
“I want to thank God for allowing me to get to this point of my career. I come from a very humble background, so if it weren’t for boxing, I would have never even been able to ride on an airplane and be with you all today in this great city. It fills me with such happiness. Because of boxing, I’ve been able to travel the world, and that’s what keeps opening doors for me. I want to thank Golden Boy and Roberto Diaz for the opportunity. I haven’t fought in several months, so I am very happy to be fighting on a Golden Boy card. When I got the call to fight here, I think I almost cried. So, I’m very excited and you have to make sure you don’t miss the fights this Saturday.”

LUZ MARTINEZ, Super Flyweight Contender:
“I want to tell you all to not miss the fights this Saturday. I promise to deliver a great battle. I also want to say something to my opponent: Let’s make sure we give everything in the ring and deliver a great battle!”

Cano vs. Ortiz is a 10-round fight for the WBC International Silver Super Lightweight Title presented by Golden Boy. The event is sponsored by Tecate “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING.” The event will take place Saturday, Nov 16 at The Plaza De Toros San Miguel De Allende in Guanajuato, Mexico.The fights will be streamed live globally on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page.

Tickets for the event are on sale and are available at www. ETicket.mx

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

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




Gesta and Morales fight to Technical decision draw

Mercito Gesta and Carlos Morales battled to a technical decision draw in a scheduled 10-round lightweight bout at The Belasco theater in Los Angeles

After a headbutt in round four, Morales was cut over the right eye, and the bout was stopped after the 6th

The cards were 58-56 Morales and 57-57 twice.

Morales, 135 lbs of Los Angeles is 19-4-4. Gesta, 133.6 lbs of San Diego is 33-3-3.

“What happened is that we clashed heads while coming in,” said Carlos Morales.”The ref said the cut was too deep. I had trouble seeing out of my left eye. The medicine kept getting in my eye, and I kept trying to get it out. Mercito has a lot of experience, so it was a good learning experience for me. If the fans want a rematch, we can do it.”

I wanted to keep going, and I know he wanted to keep going,” said Mercito Gesta.”But that’s the way it is. This is boxing, and it happens. We can definitely do this again if the fans want it.

Jonathan Oquendo won a 10-round unanimous decision over Charles Huerta in a super featherweight bout.

Oquendo, 129.8 lbs of Vega Alta, PR won all scorecards 100-90 and is now 31-6. Huerta, 129.4 lbs of Paramount, CA is 21-7.

“It was a tough fight, and I felt I did well,” said Jonathan Oquendo.”I hadn’t fought in about six months when I fought Lamont Roach. But I did a good job. I knew he was the kind of fighter who likes to trade and I think I used that to my advantage. I also worked the body really well. God willing, we’ll get world title shot next.”

Travell Mazion won a 10-round unanimous decision over Diego Cruz in a super welterweight bout.

Mazion, 153 lbs of Austin, TX won by scores of 98-91 and 99-90 twice and is now 16-0. Cruz, 152.8 lbs of Mexico City is 19-8-2.

Mazion was deducted a point in round seven for low blows

“I think my performance was amazing,” said Travell Mazion.”I did exactly what I wanted to do. Everybody always thinks that I’m trying to go out there to get the knockout. You don’t always go out there and go for the knockout. He was really tough. I knew he was going to come in with some hell of a shots, and he did, but I knew I was going to come up top. I would change keeping my hands a little bit and go for to the body more. That’s pretty much it. I did what my coach wanted me to do. Whatever they have for me. I’m going to spend the holidays with my family, but we’re still going to be in the gym. Always in the gym.

Oscar Acevedo remained undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Darel Harris in a lightweight bout.

Acevedo, 134.4 lbs of Garden City, KS won by scores of 40-37 and 40-36 twice and is now 6-0. Harris, 133.2 lbs of Sarasota, FL is 3-18-2.

“I felt good. I had to get rid of some ring rust because I hadn’t fought since March,” said Oscar Acevedo. “I’m going to go back to the gym right away and see what’s next for me.”

Evan Sanchez needed just 23 seconds to dispose of Hector Hernandez in a scheduled four-round welterweight bout.

Sanchez landed a big hook that sent Hernandez down. Upon rising to his feet, the bout was stopped.

Sanchez, 146.8 lbs of Parlier, CA is now 6-0 with five knockouts. Hernandez, 146 lbs of Durango, MX is 2-2.

“I feel honored to have been on a Golden Boy card,” said Evan Sanchez.”I appreciate every opportunity that’s been given to me. I didn’t know it would end this quick, but I knew I would get the stoppage because I have been training extra hard.”




LIVE BOXING: #MoralesGesta Undercards





Punching in Puebla: Navarrete-Horta and Ancajas-Gonzalez World Championship Doubleheader LIVE on ESPN+ December 7

PUEBLA, Mexico (Nov. 14, 2019) — Boxing’s busiest world champion, WBO junior featherweight king Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete, will make his fourth world title defense in less than seven months against Francisco “Panchito” Horta Saturday, Dec. 7 at Auditorio GNP Seguros in Puebla, Mexico.

Navarrete, from Mexico City, will fight in his home country for the first time since before he won the world title from Isaac “Royal Storm” Dogboe at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden last December.

In the co-feature, Jerwin “Pretty Boy” Ancajas will make the eighth defense of his IBF junior bantamweight world title against Chilean veteran Miguel “Aguja” Gonzalez. The opening bout will showcase three-time world title challenger Miguel Marriaga against Alfredo Mejia Vargas in an eight-round featherweight bout.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Zanfer Promotions, Navarrete-Horta, Ancajas-Gonzalez and Marriaga-Vargas will stream live on ESPN+, the leading multi-sport streaming service, beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

“Emanuel Navarrete is one of Mexico’s great young champions, and he’s only getting started,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “At 24 years of age, he is wise beyond his years and hungry to challenge himself against the very best. He’ll have defended his belt four times in 2019, and 2020 is shaping up to be another spectacular year for ‘Vaquero.’”

“I am very excited to close the year by defending my world title in my beloved Mexico,” Navarrete said. “This will be another dream that will be fulfilled, and I assure you another exciting fight. I always go for the knockout. I think it is best to win by knockout, and on Dec.7, the fans in Puebla will see another action-packed fight from ‘El Vaquero.’”

“On Dec. 7, the fans will get to know who I am. This will be guaranteed war because we are both Mexican warriors,” Horta said. “This is a golden opportunity. Definitely a dream that will come true sooner than expected. I will dispute the world title against the best 122-pounder in the world, Emanuel Navarrete. I will win the title at any cost.”

Navarrete (29-1, 25 KOs) made his United States debut last December against Dogboe, but in 2019, he has crisscrossed the western part of the country knocking out top opposition. He repeated the deed in May against Dogboe in Tucson, Ariz., scoring a 12th-round stoppage. In August, headlining the inaugural fight card at Banc of California Stadium in Log Angeles, he stopped the then-unbeaten Francisco De Vaca in three scintillating rounds. Four weeks later, he returned on the Tyson Fury-Otto Wallin card in Las Vegas and knocked out Filipino contender Juan Miguel Elorde in four. The upset-minded Horta (20-3-1, 10 KOs), from Campeche, Mexico, is unbeaten in 13 fights dating back to 2014.

Ancajas (31-1-2, 21 KOs), one of boxing’s longest-reigning world champions, was scheduled to fight Jonathan Rodriguez Nov. 2 in Carson, Calif., but Rodriguez had to withdraw on Thursday of fight week due to visa issues. Ancajas, the Filipino star who won his world title in September 2016, remained in America to prepare for Gonzalez. Ancajas last fought May 4 in Stockton, Calif., knocking out Japanese challenger Ryuichi Funai in six rounds. This will be Ancajas’ first professional bout in Mexico. Gonzalez (31-2, 8 KOs), from Santiago, Chile, has fought only once outside of his home country. He has won two in a row since dropping a WBA world title eliminator earlier this year to Australian standout Andrew Moloney. 

“I am ready to defend my world title in front of the great Mexican fans,” Ancajas said. “Since my fight against Rodriguez was canceled, I’ve stayed in America to train, and I am in fantastic shape. Gonzalez is a worthy challenger and has beaten good opposition to earn this title shot.”

“This is the opportunity I’ve been waiting for,” Gonzalez said. “Ancajas is a great champion, but this is my time.”

Use the hashtags #NavarreteHorta and #AncajasGonzalez to join the conversation on social media.

For more information, visit www.toprank.comwww.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.




TONY HARRISON VS. JERMELL CHARLO II LOS ANGELES PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

ONTARIO, Calif. (November 14, 2019) – WBC Super Welterweight Champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison and former world champion Jermell Charlo continued their verbal sparring and nearly came to blows at a heated press conference in Los Angeles on Thursday, as they previewed their rematch taking place Saturday, December 21 in the FOX PBC Fight Night main event and on FOX Deportes from Toyota Arena in Ontario, California.

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

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

Harrison vs. Charlo II has been building ever since the end of the first matchup on December 22, 2018. The two were set to meet on June 23, but the rematch was postponed when Harrison suffered torn ligaments after spraining his ankle in training.

Now that he is fully healed, Harrison is ready to cement his hold on the title while Charlo is ready to take back what he believes belongs to him. The rematch comes just one day short of a full year from the first time the two stepped into ring against each other on FOX.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from the Conga Room at L.A. Live:

TONY HARRISON

“Every time I see Jermell I just feel like he’s pretending. He’s convinced everyone he’s the toughest guy in the world. He gets up here and barks and makes excuses. I beat you the first time and I’m here again.

“If I was scared, I wouldn’t be here right now. I didn’t take any fight in between. I haven’t fought for a year, but I wanted to be put right back in it.

“I could beat him anywhere, it doesn’t matter. We could fight in this room right now. Nothing is going to change.

“There’s no respect. I’m going to show him each and every time. I’m not the one to play with. This isn’t Jorge Cota. You have somebody from Detroit. Whatever you want to do, we’re ready to do it at any given moment.

“His words definitely sparked the fuel in me that’s on fire now. He talks loud, but he’s not going to do anything. He doesn’t have the skill set to beat me.

“When he fought against Jorge Cota, he was the exact same fighter he was against me. There was nothing different. A leopard doesn’t change his spots. He’s going to hunt the same.

“When I say it’s all on the line, it’s really all on the line. I’ve never had a fight that’s been this important. There’s nothing else that matters. This right here can change my life.”

JERMELL CHARLO

“December 21 is my day. December 22 was the day they made a decision to give Tony a victory. I could have fought for my belt already but you saw what I did to Cota on June 23 and you saw what I was going to get ready to do to you.

“The judges that gave him the first fight woke me up. It’s motivating me. I’m past all the talking. I don’t need to talk trash about him.

“Nothing’s going to make me slow down. I’m going to move forward and I did. I went on and fought and showed everyone what I do. You see why I’m that guy.

“I have to prove a point. He has to prove a point. Let it be what it is. I have no problem with that. All of the talking doesn’t matter. He’s going to have to live up to his word and I’m going to live up to mine.

“It would be great to get a knockout, but we’re down to go 12. I’ll go to 15. It doesn’t matter. He can’t stand up to me in there and hurt me. He’s running scared. I’m for real about this. It’s about our hearts.

“I know that I won that first fight and I’m going to do things in a more dominant fashion this time. I’m going to be overpowering and ferocious. It will be the best Jermell Charlo. My plan is to show everyone that Tony Harrison is not on my level.

“The loss taught me to be more patient. It’s serving as a great motivator. I feel I’m the best in the division and it’s my job to show everyone why I’m a threat to everyone at 154-pounds.”

ALI SALAAM, Harrison’s Father & Trainer

“We’re thankful to everyone who made this fight happen and we appreciate Jermell and Derrick for giving us the opportunity to fight for the title the first time, and now we have the chance to solidify ourselves in the rematch.

“Tony and I are here to solidify ourselves as world champions. We deserve to be here and we’ve had an outstanding camp. It’s been excellent work with excellent sparring. We look forward to December 21 and showing the world we deserve this.”

DERRICK JAMES, Charlo’s Trainer

“I’m very happy to be here. It’s our third time doing this so hopefully third time is the charm. We’re going to be very prepared for this fight. This is what Jermell has been waiting on since December 23 last year. It’s the opportunity to get his title back.

“We know that Tony is here to defend his title but it’s our job to take it. We’re having great sparring and getting in the work so that we’re prepared for this fight. We’re looking forward to it.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“December 21 is really a tremendous fight between two elite fighters. Tony earned a victory during the first fight, but I know that Jermell is even more motivated for the rematch.

“We know that the fight was originally scheduled for June 23, until Tony suffered his injury. Jermell fought that night and drilled Jorge Cota in spectacular fashion. When we had the press conference to announce that fight, these fighters really did a lot of talking, but now I know they’re sick of talking. Now it’s time to fight.

“The Southern California fight fans are going to get another great fight here at the end of the year in Ontario. The 154-pound division is one of the hottest in boxing but first it’s time to settle this rivalry. This is a fight that promises nothing but fireworks.”




ERIK VEGA VS. ALBERTO PALMETTA OFFICIAL WEIGHTS, QUOTES AND PHOTOS FOR SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION TOMORROW LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

SLOAN, Iowa – November 14, 2019 – Undefeated welterweight prospect Erik Vega (16-0, 9 KOs) and 2016 Olympian Alberto Palmetta (12-1, 8 KOs) both made weight a day before their ShoBox: The New Generation debuts Friday night live on SHOWTIME (10:30 p.m. ET/PT) from WinnaVegas Casino in Sloan, Iowa.

The 24-year-old Vega, of Tijuana, Mexico, will make his U.S. debut against his toughest test to date, decorated amateur and Argentinian Olympian Palmetta.

In the co-feature, hard-hitting Marcos Escudero (10-0, 9 KOs) will take on Houston’s Joe George (9-0, 6 KOs) in a 10-round light heavyweight bout, and in the telecast opener, Uruguayan knockout artist Amilcar Vidal Jr. (9-0, 8 KOs) will fight for the first time in the U.S. when he meets Zach Prieto (9-0, 7 KOs) of El Paso, Texas, in an eight-round middleweight bout.

The event is promoted by Sampson Boxing in association with Paco Presents. Tickets, starting at $10, are available at www.WinnaVegas.com.

The ShoBox tripleheader will immediately follow the 9 p.m. ET/PT premiere of PARIAH: THE LIVES AND DEATHS OF SONNY LISTON, a documentary chronicling the rise and precipitous fall of one of the most vilified and misunderstood sports champions of all time. 

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

FINAL WEIGHTS, REFEREES AND JUDGES

Welterweight 10-Round Bout 

Erik Vega – 146 ½ lbs.

Alberto Palmetta – 146 lbs. 

Referee: Mark Nelson; Judges: Carlos Sucre (Florida), Gloria Martinez-Rizzo (Florida), Bob Lafratte (Iowa)

Light Heavyweight 10-Round Bout 

Marcos Escudero – 174 ½ lbs.

Joe George – 173 ½ lbs.

Referee: Adam Pollack; Judges: Carlos Sucre (Florida), Gloria Martinez-Rizzo (Florida), Bob Lafratte (Iowa)

Middleweight 8-Round Bout 

Amilcar Vidal Jr. – 160 ½ lbs.

Zach Prieto – 160 lbs.

Referee: Mark Nelson; Judges: Carlos Sucre (Florida), Gloria Martinez-Rizzo (Florida), Bob Lafratte (Iowa)

FINAL QUOTES:

ERIK VEGA:

“I know how important this fight is for me. Tomorrow, my entire career gets a new start. Everything that has happened in the past doesn’t matter. Tomorrow is all that matters. ShoBox is a great platform and it’s done so much to start the careers for so many fighters. We won’t take this lightly.

“I’m a boxer first but I have a lot of power too. I think I’m the total package. I have a little bit of everything that a boxer needs to be successful. I have skills, I know how to use the angles and I possess knockout power.

“This is a new route for me. All of my fights have been in Mexico but this is a tremendous opportunity for me and that’s why I took the fight. I’ve prepared for this fight very well and I’m taking it very seriously. My opponent is a southpaw, he’s got good skills. But I feel very confident that with the work I put in the gym, I will be victorious tomorrow night.

“I know a little bit about my opponent. I know that he’s aggressive and he likes to come forward. If I want to win, I have to listen to my team and do exactly what we worked on in the gym. I have to outbox him.”

ALBERTO PALMETTA:

“This fight is so important for me. When I left Argentina to come to the U.S. and fight for my dream, my first goal was always to be champion of the world. My team believes in me. Now, we have this opportunity to fight on TV in the main event and get closer to that goal. I’ve trained really hard for this. This is the right moment, the right time, and the right place for me.

“I know that I’m the smaller guy but It’s not important if you are tall or short. It’s more important whether you know how to move and control the distance. In my opinion, if you control the distance, you win the fight. That’s more important than size.

“I’ve watched my opponent a lot. He tries to attack and be aggressive, but we think he’s slow. In my opinion, he doesn’t control his body when he throws his punches. He’s off balance and he reaches. We want to counter every thing he does.

“I miss my family and friends a lot in Argentina. But when you have a dream, when you have a goal, you have to fight for it. My family supports me. It was really hard to leave and get on that plane. But I had to do it. I’m chasing my dream and I won’t stop until I accomplish it.

“My favorite fighters to watch were Roy Jones and Sergio Martinez from Argentina. My favorite boxer now is [Vasyl] Lomachenko and I try to model myself after him.”

MARCOS ESCUDERO:

“This fight means everything to me. I know it’s a step-by-step process to make it to the top, and this is the next step. It’s the most important fight of my life. We plan to bring the smoke.

“I don’t have any nerves about being on TV. I’m just excited for the world to see my talents. I can’t let the cameras and the lights affect me. I just need to stay calm and stick to the game plan.

“I’ve had a great training camp, and I’ve been working hard in camp for three months straight. My team around me is great. Charles [Mooney] knows what it takes and he has really helped me, especially defensively.

“When I came to the United States, I only had 10 amateur fights. I was a baby, brand new to boxing when I started the World Series of Boxing. I came here without experience. I don’t like to compare the amateurs to the pros too much. They are completely different.

“I grew up in the new generation of boxing. I grew up watching Canelo and Mayweather, and of course the Argentinians Sergio Martinez and Lucas Matthysse. Sergio Martinez was my inspiration but Marcos Maidana is the fighter that my style is closest too. I’m aggressive, a hard puncher and I’m always moving forward.”

JOE GEORGE:

“Tomorrow night, you’ll see speed, footwork, sharpness, head movement. When I’m in the zone, it’s hard to explain. You just have to witness it. It’s a beautiful thing. I’m more of a boxer, but I can do both. I can brawl but I prefer to show my boxing skills. This guy is going to fight, so I’ll be able to show more of my skill.

“As a kid, I’ve always dreamed of this opportunity. At the time, it felt impossible. It felt like you needed to be superhuman to get the opportunity to fight on SHOWTIME. So to be here is surreal, but I am ready.

“I’ve trained hard. I’m ready for whoever is put in front of me. I treat all my opponents as a champion, so I put all my work and effort to be prepared for moments like these.

“I know that my opponent has a high knockout ratio. He’s undefeated, but I don’t know how he’ll respond to a fighter of my quality. I won’t take him lightly.”

AMILCAR VIDAL JR.:

“I want to be my country’s first world champion. It would mean so much, not only to my country, but to myself and to my family. That is my goal and this is just a step to getting to that ultimate goal.

“My father was a boxer. My brother was a boxer. I was born in the ring. I started boxing when I was 6 years old and I realized I had a natural talent. As a pro, I was knocking everybody out. My last opponent was the first one that went the distance with me. I wasn’t frustrated that I didn’t knock him out. I still dropped him.

“I’m prepared. I’ve seen a couple of my opponent’s fights. He’s very strong and he has more amateur experience than I do. I know that he’s a knockout artist too, and I’m coming to knock him out. I need to take advantage of every opportunity I get.

“This is my first fight on TV, but I’m calm. I’m not anxious. I know this is a very important fight for me and I’m ready to go.

“I was hit by a car in 2015. I broke my pelvis and my humerus bone in my arm. I was in the hospital for two months and it took a year to fully recover. But I’m 100 percent now and I’m so grateful to be here and have this opportunity.”

ZACH PRIETO:

“We’ve been at it for a while. I’ve trained nearly my whole life for this. I’ve always been involved in the sport, and to finally have an opportunity like this means the world.

“I like the quick knockouts. You never know what’s going to happen in a fight, so the quicker I can end it the better. But I need to be smart with this guy. I can’t expose myself and open myself up to get hit. I’m prepared to go eight rounds and it’s important for me to stay calm while I’m in there.

“I view this as an audition. Of course, I would love to sign with a promoter. I want the fans to remember who I am when they see me, and I want them to say: ‘Where did this guy come from? I like what he has.’ I really like to ‘wow’ the crowd. As a fan growing up, I always liked those underdogs.

“I’ve learned a lot from Austin Trout. How to stay busy, how to keep moving, how to manage your angles, manage distance. He’s been great for me. One of the biggest things he’s taught me is how to stay up on your feet. I’ve sparred countless rounds with him.

“This is my first fight on TV but I’ve seen it all fighting in Mexico. In my eyes, a fight is a fight. The nerves are always going to be there, that’s never going to change. You’re stepping into a dangerous situation and you need to manage your feelings.”

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

About ShoBox: The New Generation

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




DIBELLA ENTERTAINMENT SPREADS BROADWAY BOXING HOLIDAY CHEER, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, LIVE ON UFC FIGHT PASS, FROM TERMINAL 5, IN HELL’S KITCHEN, NEW YORK CITY

New York, NY (November 14, 2019) DiBella Entertainment’s acclaimed Broadway Boxing series, now in its 17th year, returns to Manhattan with its annual New York City Holiday Show at Terminal 5 in Hell’s Kitchen on Thursday, December 5. The 112th edition of Broadway Boxing will be live streamed exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. Broadway Boxing is presented by Nissan of Queens, Azad Watches, OPTYX, Christos Steak House and Gagliardi Insurance.

Advance tickets, priced at $175, $110 and $70 (Standing Room Only), may be purchased by calling 212-947-2577. Terminal 5, one of the premier live music venues in New York City, is located at 610 W. 56th Street (11th Avenue) in New York City. Doors on the night of the event will open at 6:30pm with the first fight scheduled for 7:00pm. For further information, please visit their website, www.Terminal5NYC.com.

“I’m thrilled to bring Broadway Boxing back to Manhattan on Thursday, December 5, for a special holiday edition of heated action from Terminal 5 in Hell’s Kitchen, streamed live on UFC Fight Pass,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Coming off of a spectacular knockout-of-the-year candidate, WBC Silver super featherweight champion O’Shaquie Foster is determined to move one step closer to a world title shot facing experienced Puerto Rican southpaw Alberto Mercado in the main event. Women’s world championship boxing will be highlighted on this card with Ana Laura Esteche and Mary McGee vying for the vacant IBF super lightweight title. Brooklyn’s Mikkel LesPierre returns to the ring following his spirited battle against world champion Maurice Hooker earlier this year. Heavyweight knockout artist Stephan Shaw and future lightweight star Victor Padilla see action as well. A trio of popular New York prospects round out the stacked undercard, including Tom Loeffler-promoted Brian Ceballo along with Brooklyn’s Christian Bermudez and Frederic Julan.”

Headlining the event, O’Shaquie “Ice Water” Foster (16-2, 10 KOs), of Houston, TX, will defend his WBC Silver Super Featherweight Title in a 10-round clash against Alberto “The Transformer” Mercado (16-3-1, 3 KOs), of Humacao, Puerto Rico.

The 26-year-old Foster, rated #8 by the WBC and one of the sport’s fastest rising stars, won the title by defeating previously unbeaten Jon Fernandez via unanimous decision on September 21, 2018, in a bout telecast on SHOWTIME. The Bobby Benton-trained world ranked contender has been victorious twice this year; a third-round stoppage of Fatiou Fassinou on February 23 followed by a devastating highlight-reel eighth-round knockout of Jesus Bravo on July 17. The upset-minded Mercado seeks his way back into the win column following an eight-round decision loss to Chris Colbert on June 23, 2019, in Brooklyn, NY. Over the course of 10 years as a professional, Mercado has fought numerous top contenders, including Lamont Roach, Jayson Velez and Braulio Rodriguez.

Co-featured in a 10-round women’s world championship bout, former world champion Ana Laura “La Monita” Esteche (14-5-3, 2KOs), of Buenos Aires, Argentina, and former world title challenger “Merciless” Mary McGee (25-3, 13 KOs), rated #1 and #2 respectively by the IBF, square off with the vacant IBF Super Lightweight World Title at stake.

The 29-year-old Esteche will be looking to regain the world title she lost to fellow Argentinian Erica Farias in a very close 10-round decision on December 29, 2017. Earlier this year, Esteche defeated Maria Angelica Ruiz in a six-round unanimous decision on July 12. Having fought most of her nine-year career in the battlegrounds of Argentina, Esteche will be fighting in the United States for the first time on December 5. Riding a five-bout winning streak, the 33-year-old McGee has twice challenged for world titles, coming up short against champions Holly Holm and Farias. Fighting at home on April 6, 2019, she won a six-round unanimous decision against Szilvia Szabados.

Heavyweights will see action as undefeated top prospect Stephan “Big Shot” Shaw (12-0, 9 KOs), of St. Louis, MO, clashes with Gregory “Bad News” Corbin (15-2, 9 KOs), of Dallas, TX, in a scheduled 10-round bout.

The 27-year-old Shaw continues to impress boxing fans around the country with his thrilling knockouts. He kicked off 2019 with a third-round stoppage of Donovan Dennis on March 2, in Columbus, OH. Following that up on August 29, Shaw knocked out Willie Jake Jr. in the fourth round at Foxwoods Resort Casino. Coming from a family of fighters, the 6-foot-4 Shaw capped his amateur years with 2013 championships at the USA Nationals and the National PAL tournament. The heavy-handed Corbin has provided tough tests this year for heavyweight contenders Charles Martin and Filip Hrgovic.

Popular Puerto Rican lightweight prospect Victor “El Turu” Padilla (6-0, 5 KOs), of Berlin, NJ, will face Fredric Bowen (6-3-1, 3 KOs), of Jackson, TN, in a six-round tilt.

The 20-year-old Padilla, recently signed to DiBella Entertainment, has looked sensational in 2019, thrilling crowds with his world class skills. Competing on August 1, he knocked out Benjamin Borteye in the first round in Monroeville, PA. In his last start on October 4, the southpaw won a six-round shutout decision against Romain Tomas in Philadelphia, PA. Padilla turned professional in December 2016 after a stellar amateur career that included three National championships and a record of 90-7. The battle-tested Bowen hits the ring following a third-round knockout versus Ronald Rivas on April 27, 2019, in Joliet, IL.

Former world title challenger Mikkel “Slikk Mikk” LesPierre (21-1-1, 6 KOs), Brooklyn, NY, clashes with Roody Pierre “Rude Boy” Paul (16-5-2, 6 KOs), of Terrebonne, Quebec, Canada, in an eight-round super lightweight bout.

A professional and fan favorite for seven years, LesPierre looks to rebound from his only loss, a hard-fought defeat via decision in a world title clash against then-WBO World Champion Maurice Hooker on March 9, 2019. In his last Manhattan appearance, LesPierre won a highly entertaining 10-round unanimous decision versus previously undefeated Noel Murphy on February 7, 2018. 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. Nine-year veteran Paul has faced a wealth of top Canadian fighters and will be making his New York City debut against LesPierre. The upset-minded Paul hits the ring following a 10-round decision loss to Steven Wilcox on May 9, 2019, in Toronto, Canada.

Other top prospects seeing action in separate bouts on the stacked card include welterweight Brian Ceballo (11-0, 6 KOs), of New York, NY, lightweight Christian Bermudez (1-0, 1 KO), of Brooklyn, NY, light heavyweight Frederic Julan (11-0, 9 KOs), of Brooklyn, NY, and female light heavyweight prospect Shadasia Green (3-0, 2 KOs), of Paterson, NJ. More information on these bouts will be announced shortly. The Ceballo bout is promoted in association with Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions.




ALL NEW YORK BATTLE OF THE UNDEFEATED: RISING STARS ALEX “EL TORO” VARGAS & DASHAUN “TOOSWEET” JOHNS PUT THEIR UNDEFEATED RECORDS ON THE LINE NOVEMBER 23 AT THE PARAMOUNT

New York, November 14, 2019

Unlike the glory years of boxing, these days it is not often that two young stars, with perfect records and future aspirations of world title contention, take the risk to fight one another so early in their respective careers. This statement is a testament to the desire of greatness for both ALEX “EL TORO” VARGAS (Bellport, NY 4-0 1KO) and DASHAUN “TOOSWEET” JOHNS (Bronx, NY 2-0 1KO). Vargas and Johns will battle to keep their undefeated records when they fight on Star Boxing’s show on November 23rd. The fight will be part of a great undercard to the championship (WBC and ABO), grudge rematch between DANNY “EL GALLO” GONZALEZ (Woodhaven. NY 18-2-1 7KO’s) and JOHNNY “HITMAN” HERNANDEZ (Huntington, NY 10-4 1KO) at The Paramount in Huntington, NY as part of the “Rockin’ Fights” Series (#RF37).

Both Vargas and Johns are active in their communities and represent themselves with extreme character and authenticity. Both were decorated amateur fighters, Vargas a 2013 New York Golden Gloves Champion and Johns a Title National Champion. Both also have huge fan bases that will be competing on the noise meter at the Paramount. However, make no mistake, on November 23, chivalry will have no place in the ring; New York bragging rights as well as a perfect record are on the line. Both fighters have made it very clear that they know what is at stake as “someone’s 0 must go!”.

“I’m really excited for this and I’m ready for it” said Vargas. “Two undefeated fighters both from New York has a lot of bragging rights.” Alex Vargas has proven the ability to rise to the moment over his first four fights at The Paramount. His loud and colorful fan base continues to grow, and creates an entertaining atmosphere, fight after fight. As for what those fans can expect come November 23, “they can expect a very exciting, but smart fought fight. I won’t be the one taking my first loss.”

Vargas’ comments did not go unheard by Dashaun Johns. “Come fight night, he better keep that same energy,” said Johns. Returning to The Paramount for the third time, Johns is prepared to put on a show for his fans and knows a fight of this caliber, at this point in his career, could be a defining moment. “Champions are created inside and out of the gym,” said Johns. “To be the best you have to fight the best. This is my legacy! The time is now.”

“Rockin’ Fights” 37 is promoted by Star Boxing on a thrilling night of fights from The Paramount in Huntington, Long Island, featuring a WBC title doubleheader.
JOE DEGUARDIA, President of Star Boxing stated “This is what makes the Paramount so special. It is a throwback to the glory days of boxing, where fighters can develop in an atmosphere that prepares them for mega-fights since they become accustomed to pressure-cooker situations early in their career. Two warriors, under the lights in a packed house, fighting to keep their undefeated records. This is like a world championship fight for them and provides the experience needed for future success. They are both winners and will benefit from this experience, and I applaud them both for having the desire to succeed”.

Tickets are on sale now via ticketmaster.com. Doors open at 7:00 PM and event begins at 7:30 PM. Follow us on social media for more information @StarBoxing and join the conversation by using #RockinFights.
BUY TICKETS TO “ROCKIN’ FIGHTS” AT THE PARAMOUNT HERE
TICKETS START AT $50 | FIGHT NIGHT: SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23
BUY TICKETS HERE!




SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT BEKTEMIR ‘BULLY’ MELIKUZIEV SIGNS CO-PROMOTIONAL AGREEMENT WITH GOLDEN BOY AND WORLD OF BOXING

LOS ANGELES (Nov. 14, 2019): Fresh off his impressive victory on the undercard of Canelo vs. Kovalev, super middleweight prospect Bektemir Melikuziev (3-0, 3 KOs) has signed a co-promotional agreement with Golden Boy and World of Boxing. Details for his next fight will be announced shortly.

Melikuziev is a 23-year-old puncher with an impressive amateur resume, having captured silver medals at the 2015 AIBA World Boxing Championships and the 2016 Summer Olympics, among other accolades. The native of Shoimbek, Uzbekistan made his professional debut in June of this year, and he has remained undefeated in three fights that he has won by knockout. With his impressive background, Melikuziev plans to make a quick rise up the super middleweight rankings, and he is proud to do so with Golden Boy and World of Boxing.

“I am looking forward to a long and successful career working together with World of Boxing and Golden Boy,” said Melikuziev. “It’s a pleasure for me to have such a professional team! I have watched many of these great fights on TV and dreamt of one day becoming someone like the boxers that fight in the U.S. Now I have this chance, and I will take full advantage of this opportunity! Don’t blink, every one of my fights will be a performance not to miss!”

“Weare very excited to be working with World of Boxing to promote Bektemir Melikuziev,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. “This man is an absolute beast. He’s strong, tough and very quick with his hands and feet, especially for his weight class. We look forward to moving him fairly quickly up the rankings as he puts everybody on notice at 168 pounds.”

Said Andrei Ryabinskiy, head of World of Boxing, “Bektemir is still young, but already a very experienced boxer that has proven his talent in the amateurs. I am confident that working together with Oscar De La Hoya, who has himself stepped into the highest pro ranks from the Olympic pedestal, we will be able to push Melikuziev’s career all the way to the top!”

“Bek is a real ‘Bully’ in the ring, but a very nice and happy person outside of the ring,” said Vadim Kornilov, Manager of Melikuziev. “I look forward to working with World of Boxing and Golden Boy to make Bek into the future star that he is already becoming!”

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




Former World Champions Guillermo Rigondeaux & Liborio Solis Square Off for Vacant WBA Bantamweight World Title Live in Primetime Saturday, December 21 in FOX PBC Fight Night Action & on FOX Deportes from Toyota Arena in Ontario, California

ONTARIO, Calif. (November 14, 2019) – Former world champions Guillermo Rigondeaux and Liborio Solis will battle for the vacant WBA Bantamweight World title Saturday, December 21 in the FOX PBC Fight Night co-main event and on FOX Deportes live in primetime from Toyota Arena in Ontario, California.

Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will see rising heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba taking on Iago Kiladze in a 10-round opening attraction. The event is is headlined by the highly anticipated WBC Super Welterweight Title rematch between Tony “Superbad” Harrison and Jermell “Iron Man” Charlo.

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

“With two world title fights and one of boxing’s most exciting prospects entering the ring, Saturday, December 21 is going to be a night of action that fans in Southern California won’t want to miss,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “In addition to the main event, one of boxing’s most skilled fighters, Guillermo Rigondeaux, will look to become a two-division world champion against a battle tested former champion in Liborio Solis. Plus, hard-hitting phenom Efe Ajagba hopes to pass another test with flying colors against Iago Kiladze to round out a tremendous lineup on FOX and FOX Deportes.”

Rigondeaux (19-1, 13 KOs) will look to move down and capture a title in a second weight class while showing off the masterful technical skills that made him a unified 122-pound world champion and perennial member of the pound-for-pound list. A two-time Olympic gold medalist for his native Cuba, Rigondeaux made his name with victories over the likes of Nonito Donaire, Rico Ramos and Joseph Agbeko. Most recently, Rigondeaux scored an exciting eighth-round stoppage of former champion Julio Ceja in June on FOX.

Born in Venezuela and fighting out of Panama, Solis (30-5-1, 14 KOs) will make his U.S. debut on December 21 while riding a five-fight winning streak. Solis captured a super flyweight world title in 2013 amidst a 14-bout unbeaten run. He has lost by decision in his two previous attempts at 118-pound title, including a controversial loss to Jamie McDonnell, which he has bounced back from on his current win streak.

Nigeria’s Ajagba (11-0, 9 KOs) most recently passed the toughest test of his professional career when he defeated fellow 2016 Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen by 10-round unanimous decision in July. The 25-year-old Ajagba gained widespread notoriety in August 2018 when his opponent, Curtis Harper, walked out of the ring after touching gloves to start the first round. Ajagba won the fight without throwing a punch as Harper was disqualified. Living in Stafford, Texas and training with Ronnie Shields, Ajagba has steadily increased his competition and added knockouts wins over Amir Mansour and Michael Wallisch this year.

The 33-year-old Kiladze (26-4-1, 18 KOs) broke a three-fight losing streak by fighting to a split draw in May against undefeated heavyweight Robert Alfonso. Kiladze’s losses had come against top heavyweight Adam Kownacki, Michael Hunter and Joe Joyce, who own a combined 34-1 record. Originally from Georgia and now fighting out of Los Angeles, Kiladze won six straight fights between 2014 and 2018.

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

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




CAPITAL SHOWDOWN – PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

Katharina Thanderz (12-0, 2 KOs) came face-to-face with her opponent Danila Ramos (8-1, 1 KO) for the first time at a press conference today in Oslo ahead of their interim WBC World Super Featherweight title fight on Saturday night.

Thanderz, a former European and WBC International Champion, headlines a stacked card at the Ekeberghallen as she challenges for her first World title, while Norway’s number one male boxer Kai Robin Havnaa (15-0, 3 KOs) takes on Mariano Angel Gudino (13-3, 8 KOs) in a crunch cruiserweight clash.

“I feel great. I can’t wait until Saturday,” said Thanderz. “I’ve had a great camp with really hard training. Some days I was completely exhausted but that’s what you have to do to win a fight like this. I have lots of friends and family coming on Saturday so I’m really happy about that. I’m not sure what’s going to happen but I know that I’m going to give it all. This is a big chance for me to realize my dream and win my first World title.”

“I’m very happy to be here,” said Ramos. “Norway is beautiful and it’s the first time I’ve ever seen snow. I feel like I’m already the champ. I didn’t take my belt home to Brazil last time, but there is no way that’s happening again. I’m certain I will win. Come to the fight or watch on TV, I will put in a sensational performance and you will see a new champion on Saturday!”

“It’s a tough fight for both girls and both fighters are here to win,” said promoter Nisse Sauerland.  “It’s a massive night for Norway. Boxing is growing sport over here. It’s been illegal for many years and there have been lots of restrictions, so I’m just happy to put on this great fight night. If Katharina wins then I think there will be a new Norwegian national hero and there will be some very big fights to be made, people like: Terri Harper, Eva Wahlstrom and other big names.”

“I’m happy to be here in Norway,” said Gudino, who comes in as a late replacement for Al Sands. “Havnaa is in trouble. He will see what it is like to fight a real warrior. I’ve come here to fight and I’ve come here to win. I’ve not come here for a holiday. I give the same importance to every fight I have. It doesn’t matter where it is or who it is against. I know Havnaa is a good fighter. He is a big opponent for me, but I’m ready for a war!”

“I can’t wait to get into the ring on Saturday night,” said Havnaa. “I’ve had a late change of opponent before so I’m used to this and I’m not going to let it affect me. My opponent looks fit and strong. I know he is coming here to fight and I will be prepared to face my best opponent yet. He’s says that he’s going to make it war so I’m expecting a war. Let’s go to war!”

“Kai’s had a late replacement. I gave him a list of three fighters and he’s picked the hardest one,” says Sauerland. “I really like his attitude and fingers crossed it doesn’t backfire. I expect a very good, tough fight. It’s going to be a great crowd and we are building something special here in Norway.

“The name Havnaa is synonymous with boxing in Norway. It’s a huge name here. His dad was a World Champion and now Kai is following in his footsteps and emulating his success. He’s the biggest star in boxing in Norway at the moment. He’s taking over and now he needs to produce the goods in the ring.”

Katharina Thanderz headlines a huge show at the historic Ekeberghallen as she faces Danila Ramos for the interim WBC Female World Super Featherweight crown, while Kai Robin Havnaa looks to bolster his World title claim in a crunch cruiserweight clash with Mariano Angel Gudino, and top talents Kevin Melhus, Alexander Hagen, Bernard Torres and Kent Erik Baadstad complete an action-packed card in the Norwegian capital.

Tickets are available online via www.ticketmaster.no. All the action will be available to watch live across Viasat 4, Viasport + and Viaplay in Norway.




SMITH: ANFIELD DISAPPEARS IF I LOSE TO RYDER

Callum Smith has admitted that his 2020 Anfield dream would disappear if he were to surrender his WBA World, WBC Diamond and Ring Magazine Super-Middleweight titles to mandatory challenger John Ryder at the M&S Bank Arena Liverpool on Saturday November 23, live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US. 

‘Mundo’ returns home to fight in his native Liverpool for the first time since outpointing Sweden’s Erik Skoglund in September 2017 knowing that a win over his fellow Brit Ryder is vital if he is to secure a mega-fight against the likes of Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez or Billy Joe Saunders next summer. 

“I want the big fights, I want the superstar names and the only chance of me getting them is by having a World title, so I’ve got to keep my belt for as long as I can,” said Smith. “John Ryder poses a big threat. He wants to take what I’ve worked so hard for. I worked hard to win my World title and I’ve got to work even harder to keep it now.

“I’m expecting a tough fight from John Ryder, he’s in good shape and it’s a big opportunity for him. I just think the best version of me beats any Super-Middleweight on the planet. With the way I’ve been performing in the gym, I think I’m going to put in a big performance. You’ve got to respect him because he’s in good form. He’s won fights where he was the underdog and he wasn’t supposed to win.

“He deserves a lot of respect. He hasn’t just been picked out of a hat, he earnt the mandatory position with good wins. I respect every fighter and John especially, but like I said before I think the best version of me beats any Super-Middleweight in the World and as long as I turn up and perform the way I know I can then I think I’ll be too much for him.”

Smith (26-0, KOs 19), rated as the No 1 fighter in the 168lbs division, will fight for the first time as World Champion on home turf after blowing away Hassan N’Dam in three rounds last time out on the Anthony Joshua-Andy Ruiz Jr undercard in New York in June.

Ambitious plans are in place for Smith to fight at the home of his beloved Liverpool FC in May next year, potentially a unification clash against fellow Matchroom man Billy Joe Saunders who successfully defended his WBO title in LA last week, but Smith isn’t getting carried away and insists his focus is firmly on Ryder next week. 

“This fight is like every other fight in my career, they’ve always been must-win. I always wanted to be where I am now so any loss along the way would have derailed those plans. Now people are talking about 2020 and the massive names and the thought of Anfield. All of that disappears if I lose to John Ryder.

“It’s the same motivation that I’ve always had. I always want more and I’m always wanting to see what’s next. This fight is no different, a win over Ryder opens the door for possible huge fights in 2020. A loss to Ryder and they all disappear and I become a challenger again and I join the queue. It’s a must-win fight for me and that’s all I need. As long as I’ve got a World title I’m in a very good position.”

Smith vs. Ryder tops a huge night of action in Liverpool. 

Craig Glover (10-2, 8 KOs) takes on Chris Billam-Smith (9-1, 8 KOs) for the vacant Commonwealth Cruiserweight title, Anthony Fowler (10-1, 8 KOs) meets Harry Scarff (8-0, 1 KO) for the WBA International Super-Welterweight title, James Tennyson (25-3, 21 KOs) and Craig Evans (20-2-2, 3 KOs) square-off in a final eliminator for the British Lightweight title, Tom Farrell (17-2, 5 KOs) clashes with Sean Dodd (16-5-1, 3 KOs) in a must-win encounter for both men, Liverpool Light-Heavyweight talent Thomas Whittaker-Hart (3-0, 1 KO) aims to end his first year as a pro in style and Liverpool Super-Lightweight Marcus Molloy (1-0) and Skelmersdale Welterweight Tom Aitchson (1-0) both go for their second win in the pro ranks. 




KYOTARO FUJIMOTO HOLDS PRESS CONFERENCE WITH PANDA AHEAD OF DANIEL DUBOIS BOUT

Japanese Heavyweight Kyotaro Fujimoto today unveiled his secret weapon for defeating Daniel Dubois on December 21st: a panda.

At a press conference in Tokyo’s famous Korakuen Hall, Fujimoto declared the bear was key to getting him ready to tackle his “scary” opponent.With his trademark multi-colour hair, and equally impressive suit, Fujimoto stunned the room when he said: “My opponent is a giant of a man. He seems as big and strong as a bear. It’s a little scary to fight a bear, so I’ve brought in a panda as a sparring partner.”

Introducing his unorthodox training partner to the assembled media, Fujimoto finished the remainder of the press conference with his bamboo-loving friend at his side.

Fujimoto, a 33 year old Heavyweight with an impressive 21-1 record and a #12 ranking with the WBA, confessed to being impressed with what he’d seen of Daniel Dubois in the ring.

He said: “I watched some of his fights… my impression is that he boxes very skilfully”

Daniel ‘Dynamite’ Dubois, at just 22, is widely regarded as the most exciting prospect in Heavyweight boxing and at 13-0 with 12 KO’s represents a huge challenge to the Asian boxer.

Fujimoto accepts the deck is stacked in Daniel’s favour, but believes the fight is a milestone moment in his life and one that could change it for the better.

“It’s been a long road getting here so I’m really excited to finally make it to the big stage. Winning this fight is going to change my life, and I want to change my life.”

On the line in this epic match-up will be Daniel Dubois’ WBO International Heavyweight Title and also the WBC Silver Title.

The WBC’s Silver championship was formerly held by Dillian Whyte and is seen as a key stepping stone to a shot at a World title.

When asked about Dubois and promoter Frank Warren’s plans to make him a World Champion Fujimoto said: “They think they’re going to win, of course. They think they’re bringing me over as an easy win, but that’s not the case. I’m ready to take on the world.”

Channelling the spirit of Sylvester Stallone’s famous character, he went on to insist that on December 21st at the Copper Box Arena he could battle to an unlikely Rocky Balboa-style win.

“I’m going to go over there and fight with the spirit of Rocky. This is my big chance to show what I’m made of. I’m going to do my best to make this my Christmas present.

If I win, it’s going to change my life.”

With less than 6 weeks to go until what’s being called ‘The Fight Before Christmas’ Fujimoto, and the panda, had better to get to work if they plan to turn that dream into reality.

———-

Several images from the press conference are available here

Frank Warren’s Queensberry Promotions are heading to the Copper Box Arena to stage a bumper night of boxing on December 21st.

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.

Light Heavyweight prospect and Love Island star Tommy Fury (2-0) makes 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 will be available via Ticketmaster shortly

Ticket prices:

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




JOHN JOE NEVIN: “I’M COMING TO HUNT THE WORLD CHAMPIONS DOWN!”

London, UK (14 November 2019) Irish ace John Joe Nevin scoffs at suggestions that he is being pitched into a world class assignment without the appropriate professional seasoning.
In 13 paid outings so far, the super-skilled 2012 Olympic finalist and 2013 European amateur gold medallist is yet to feature beyond eight rounds.
However, at London’s York Hall this Saturday (16 November), Nevin has been cast against Nicaragua’s seriously nasty Freddy Fonseca, a proven world grade operator who has conceded just four times in 32 starts and sent 18 opponents down before the scorecards were required.
The pair collide over 10 rounds for the WBA International Super-Featherweight Championship with the victor assured a world ranking. The salivating showdown will be screened live and exclusive in the U.K on free-to-air Channel Five.
‘I’m not remotely worried. After being told I’d never boxing again, I’m enjoying these new challenges. I’ll be walking my way to the world title!’ quipped the Mullingar traveller who was told he might never box again after both his legs were broken in an out-of-ring altercation in April 2014.
‘You have to remember all my experience from the WSB (World Series of Boxing). I had 11 bouts (9 wins) boxing for Paris United, then the London Lionhearts; without head guards, wearing eight-ounce gloves in five round fights against elite opposition with professional style scoring. They were proper, aggressive scraps. They more than compensate.
‘On November 16th, U.K fans will see the skills of a genuine contender who’s coming to hunt the world champions down. After nailing the WBA International title I’ll chase a world title straight after. I’d only be interested in the European belt and the like if it guarantees getting me closer to a world title.
‘(Reigning IBF Champion) Tevin Farmer would be my preferred choice. He’s from Philly where I was based for the start of my pro career (under promoter Tom Moran’s GreenBlood organisation). When we were on the same bill, I sold a lot more tickets than Farmer ever did. They weren’t boxing fans who attended, they were John Joe Nevin fans.
‘Farmer beat two Irish guys already, Jono Carroll and James Tennyson, so I’d like to avenge that for Irishmen everywhere. I’d willingly fight Tevin in his home town but before MY fans. He’s pretty slick too but he’s not got what I’ve got.’
But if he’s to force that grudge match, nifty, nimble Nevin knows he must cast a spell over the formidable Fonseca in London on Saturday week in what is easily the stiffest assignment of his five and a half year pro career.
‘This kid’s no journeyman. He’ll not go into hiding. He’ll really go for it,’ acknowledges the man from County Westmeath.
‘Fonseca brings this big, big left hand. He knows he can punch but I’m confident I can frustrate him then walk him onto stuff. And I hit very hard. My record shows just the four kayos but it’s very hard to knock a man out when he’s running away. It’s just about timing the right punch.
‘An impressive win will stick me into the world top 15 and then I’ll not be too far away.’
Promoted by Mick Hennessy in association with Infinitum, Channel 5 and Priority Promotions, Dilmaghani v Fonseca will be televised exclusively live in the UK on free-to-air Channel 5 and 5Spike.
Headline attraction on the card features Alex Dilmaghani versus Francisco Fonseca for the Vacant IBO Super-Featherweight Championship. Chief support sees an exciting clash between Irish star John Joe Nevin v Freddy Fonseca for the WBA International Super-Featherweight Championship. A packed and top quality undercard also features: Fast rising Sevenoaks middleweight talent Michael Hennessy Jnr; Stockwell welterweight Samuel Antwi; Welsh super-featherweight Rhys Edwards; Chelsea Lightweight Connor Marsden; two London based Romanians: super-welterweight Flavius Biea and heavyweight Lucian Atani; Basildon super-lightweight Lewis Smith; Islington middleweight Billy Underwood; Luton super-lightweight Jahid Munim and Islington featherweight Alizara Ghadiri.
Tickets are available from MyFightTickets: https://myfighttickets.com/shop-1?olsPage=products%2Fhennessy-york-hall
Tickets are available from MyFightTickets: https://myfighttickets.com/shop-1?olsPage=products%2Fhennessy-york-hall



Palmetta stops Vega in 10th

Alberto Palmetta stopped previously undefeated Erik Vega in the 10th and final round of their welterweight bout at The WinnaVegas Casino in Sloan, Iowa.

It was a nip and tuck fight until Palmetta clipped Vega with a right hook in the final round. Palmetta was all over Vega and landed 11 unanswered blows until referee Mark Nelson stopped the fight at 1:03.

Palmetta, 146 lbs of Argentina is 13-1 with nine knockouts. Vega, 146 1/2 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 16-1.

Joseph George took a 10-round split-decision over Marcos Escudero in a battle of undefeated light heavyweights.

George won two cards 97-93 and 97-94 while Escudero won a card 96-94.

Escudero landed 177 of 911 punches; George landed 161 of 545.

George, 173 1/2 lbs of Houston is now 10-0. Escudero, 174 1/2 lbs of Argentina is 10-1.

Amilcar Vidal Jr. stopped Zach Prieto in round one of their scheduled eight-round middleweight bout.

In the opening frame, Vidal dropped Prieto with a heavy left. Prieto was hurt, and Amilcar jumped on him with a relentless flurry and ending the fight with a hard right that sent Prieto to the deck just as referee Mark Nelson was stopping the fight at 2:59.

Vidal, 160 1/2 lbs of Montevedo, UR is 10-0 with nine knockouts. Prieto, 160 lbs of El Paso, TX is 9-1.




LEO SANTA CRUZ LOS ANGELES WORKOUT QUOTES

LOS ANGELES (November 13, 2019) – Three-division world champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz showed off his skills at a media workout in Los Angeles Wednesday as he prepares to battle Miguel “El Michoacan” Flores for the vacant WBA Super Featherweight Title on Saturday, November 23 in the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Pay-View co-main event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and is headlined by boxing’s longest reigning heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder defending his WBC title in a rematch against once-beaten Cuban slugger Luis “King Kong” Ortiz.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by BombZquad Promotions, TGB Promotions and Mayweather Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at www.mgmgrand.com or www.axs.com.

Los Angeles’ Santa Cruz hosted media at City of Angels Boxing as he nears his opportunity to win a world title in a fourth weight class. Here is what Santa Cruz had to say Wednesday:

LEO SANTA CRUZ

“I’m only focused on my fight because I know that Miguel Flores is going to bring everything he has to try to win that title. There are a lot of great champions in this division but I can’t think of anything past Flores.

“I’m expecting a classic Mexico vs. Mexico brawl. Flores is from Michoacan and the people from there have a lot of heart and they leave everything in the ring. I’ve seen him do it. He throws to the body really well. He has a good uppercut too. So I know it’s going to be a tough fight.

“We always work hard in the gym so that we can throw a lot of punches in the fight. We want to put the pressure on and give the fans a great fight and take home the win.

“I train hard no matter who the opponent is. That’s the only thing I know how to do. So I don’t think about any let downs, only about winning the fight in front of me. I think this is a great opportunity to introduce myself to the division.

“I’m going to go in there and fight hard for 12 rounds or as long as it lasts. I’m going to be smart and make sure I get the win. But we also always want to give the fans a great show from start to finish.

“I feel really good right now. I think I’m going to be strong at that weight and have extra power in the ring on fight night. I don’t spend as much time in camp worrying about cutting weight so everything else will be better because of that. I’m going to be ready for everything Miguel Flores can bring.

“I want to win another title for my legacy and so I can continue to give fans great fights. This is a great opportunity so I’m going to go ahead and make the most of it.

“It’s great to be on this card with such an exciting main event. You know that Deontay Wilder can knock anyone out at any minute. The heavyweight division is really exciting right now and I know Wilder and Luis Ortiz are going to give everyone something to remember. I want to make an exciting fight too and steal the show. It’ll be hard to do, but I’m going to go out there and try to do it.”

#

ABOUT WILDER VS. ORTIZ II
Wilder vs. Ortiz II will see boxing’s longest reigning heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder defending his WBC title in a rematch against once-beaten Cuban slugger Luis “King Kong” Ortiz Saturday, November 23 in FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View action live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Three-division champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz seeks a title in another division when he takes on Miguel “El Michoacan” Flores for the WBA Super Featherweight Championship in the co-main event.

Pay-per-view action begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and also features undefeated rising star Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa making the first defense of his WBA Super Bantamweight Title against former champion Julio Ceja while undefeated Mexican power-puncher Luis Nery battles Puerto Rico’s Emmanuel Rodríguez in a matchup of former bantamweight champions.

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




Elton Dharry planning a major upset Down Under Friday in WBA Interim super flyweight title fight against undefeated Aussie boxer Andrew Moloney

MELBOURNE, Australia (November 13, 2019) – Guyana-native Elton Dharry didn’t travel halfway around the world from New York City to Australia simply to pick-up a paycheck, after his World Boxing Association (WBA) Interim super flyweight title fight this Friday, against undefeated Aussie fighter Andrew “The Monster” Moloney.

Dharry (24-5-1, 14 KOs) plans to ruin the expected coronation of Moloney (20-0, 13 KOs), the No. 1-rated WBA contender for the vacant title, who knocked out Miguel Gonzalez (29-1) this past March in the fourth round of their WBA Title Eliminator.

Moloney vs. Dharry is the 12-round main event streaming live on ESPN+ from Melbourne, Australia.

“I’ve trained and worked hard a really long time, so, for me, it doesn’t matter where this fight is being held,” Dharry said. “Traveling here wasn’t a problem. This is for a world title and that’s what I want. I do recognize it as my biggest fight, but I’m treating it as just another fight, and he’s just another opponent to me. That’s how I see it.

“I came here because I believe I can win this fight. It’s the reason I traveled 30-plus hours to get here. I don’t predict my fights; I just go in the ring prepared for whatever style. I’m going to do whatever it takes to win. His style doesn’t really mean anything to me. I’m here to win!”

The 33-year-old Dharry, WBA-rated No. 5 and reigning WBA Fedecentro and World Boxing Council (WBC) FECARBOX super flyweight champion, will enter the ring riding a 21-fight win streak dating back to 2010. As a bantamweight, Dharry is a former International Boxing Federation (IBF) Inter-Continental, Guyanese, and WBC Caribbean Boxing Federation title holder. In his sixth pro fight, back in 2007, Dharry extended future four-time, three-division world champion Leo Santa Cruz the full distance in a loss by way of a four-round unanimous decision.

“We’re extremely excited about this opportunity,” Havoc Boxing Promotions CEO Rob Diaz added. “Elton’s head trainer, Martin Gonzalez, has put together a masterful plan. We have no doubt Elton will execute and bring the championship back to Brooklyn.”

INFORMATION:

Website: www.TeamHavocUSA.com
Twitter: @HavocBoxingNYC, @elton_dharry
Instagram: @havoc_ceo
Facebook: www.facebook.com/HavocBoxingNYC




SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT CONTENDER SONNY FREDRICKSON HEADLINES “FIGHT FOR CHILDREN” EVENT AGAINST SAMUEL TEAH THURSDAY NIGHT IN WASHINGTON, D.C.

New York, NY (November 13, 2019) On Thursday night in Washington, D.C., top contender Sonny Fredrickson (21-1, 14 KOs), of Toledo, OH, defends his USBA Super Lightweight Title against
Samuel “Tsunami” Teah (15-3-1, 7 KOs), of Philadelphia, PA, in the 10-round main event at the
30th Annual “Fight for Children” Gala held at the Hilton Hotel in our nation’s capital.

Today at the pre-fight weigh-in, the 25-year-old Fredrickson tipped the scales at 139.8 pounds, while Teah weighed in at 139.4.

Promoted by DiBella Entertainment, Fredrickson will be seeking his fourth straight victory. On May 18, 2019, the 6-foot-1 Fredrickson knocked out former world title challenger Joseph Laryea in the first round in Dearborn, MI.

Headlining last year’s “Fight for Children” event on November 1, 2018, Fredrickson won the vacant USBA Super Lightweight Title via 10-round unanimous decision versus Manuel Mendez. The only loss of his six years as a professional came in a hard-fought battle against Shohjahon Ergashev on January 12, 2018, in a bout telecast on SHOWTIME.

Fredrickson is currently world ranked #8 by the IBF and #11 by the WBA.

The 32-year-old Teah looks to rebound following a tough decision loss to Tre’Sean Wiggins on February 23, in Philadelphia, PA.

More information on the “Fight for Children” event can be found on their website at: www.FightForChildren.Org.