CHEESEMAN AND FITZGERALD CLASH IN NEWCASTLE

Ted Cheeseman will defend his British Super-Welterweight title against Scott Fitzgerald at the Utilita Arena Newcastle on Saturday October 19 in support of Robbie Davies Jr vs. Lewis Ritson, shown live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US. 

Fitzgerald (13-0, 9 KOs) is coming off a career-best win as he dealt Anthony Fowler his first defeat at Liverpool’s M&S Bank Arena in March, and now plans to assert his dominance on the domestic scene with a victory over Bermondsey’s Cheeseman later this year.

British Champion Cheeseman (15-1-1, 9 KOs) fell short against Spain’s Sergio Garcia in a bid for the European title in February, and was forced to settle for a hotly disputed draw with Northampton’s Kieron Conway in the first defence of his title in June.

“I’m really excited for this fight,” said Cheeseman. “I had a bad start to the year but I overcame all of my demons. I thought I performed well against Conway in June but I didn’t get the win, but I’m still the champion and it’s my belt to lose.

“I’m in a much better position both mentally and physically now. It’s not about how you start the year, it’s about how you end it. When I win this fight I’ll be back at the top of the domestic Super-Welterweight scene. 

“The experience is going to be what counts in this fight. Scott is a good fighter and you can’t take anything away from him but I’ve had a lot of experience. Scott has only fought in ten rounders and he’s only had one tough fight. I’ve been in tough fights since my seventh fight really.

“Everyone is going to be intrigued by this fight. I’ll be the underdog in this one coming off a loss and a draw. It’s going to be an explosive fight. A win over Scott will shut everyone up and put me back at the top of the pile.”

“I’m feeling good, training is going well and I’m just where I need to be,” said Fitzgerald. “I’m working hard to make sure that the best version of me turns up and I win that British title on October 19.

“It’s neutral ground but I can still probably do a few tickets up there so I’m happy with the venue. I’ve never boxed in Newcastle before so it’s all good for me.

“I thought Cheeseman beat Conway but after that performance I’m confident I can beat him. I’m just working my hardest so I’m prepared for the best version of Ted Cheeseman possible to turn up.

“I’ve been in the gym since my win over Fowler. I’ve not had a big break out of the gym so I’m still where I need to be. I’ve been getting some good spars in and I’ll be ready to go. I’m expecting it to be a good fight and an exciting contest to watch. I’ll have a plan in place ready to get the win.”

Full card details including ticket information will be announced soon. 




UFC® RETURNS TO BOSTON’S TD GARDEN WITH LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT THRILLER BETWEEN (#4) DOMINICK REYES AND (#7-MW) CHRIS WEIDMAN

LAS VEGAS – UFC® returns to Boston with a spectacular light heavyweight bout, as undefeated No. 4 ranked contender Dominick Reyeswelcomes former middleweight champion Chris Weidman to the 205-pound division. In a featherweight contenders’ bout guaranteed to deliver fireworks, No. 5 ranked Zabit Magomedsharipov battles No. 11 Calvin Kattar.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT ON ESPN®: REYES vs. WEIDMAN will air live from the TD Garden exclusively on ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes at 9 p.m. ET on Friday, October 18, with the prelims kicking off at 6 p.m. ET on ESPN2 and on ESPN Deportes.  Doors open at 5 p.m. ET.

Reyes (11-0, fighting out of Victorville, Calif.) immediately turned heads upon joining the UFC in 2017 by delivering a Performance of the Night victory over Joachim Christensen. He has since made a rapid ascent up the light heavyweight rankings after securing impressive wins against Jared Cannonier, Ovince Saint Preux and former title challenger Volkan Oezdemir. Reyes now aims to add a former UFC champion to his resume and stake his claim for a title shot.

Weidman (14-4, fighting out of Baldwin, N.Y.) shocked the MMA world in 2013 by dethroning long-reigning middleweight champion Anderson Silva via knockout. He then went on to deliver spectacular title defenses against Silva, Lyoto Machida and Vitor Belfort. The Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and NCAA Division I wrestler now sets his sights on taking over the light heavyweight class by stopping one of the division’s biggest rising stars.

In less than two years on the UFC roster, Magomedsharipov (17-1, fighting out of Dagestan, Russia) has proven to be a must-watch featherweight contender. Known for his dynamic striking and slick grappling, he has netted memorable victories over Jeremy Stephens, Brandon Davis, Kyle Bochniak and Sheymon Moraes. Magomedsharipov now looks to once again steal the show and secure his 14th consecutive win.

A thrilling striker, Kattar (20-3, fighting out of Methuen, Mass.) has delivered sensational knockouts in his last three victories. During his UFC tenure, he has stopped Ricardo Lamas, Chris Fishgold and earned Fight of the Night honors for his TKO against Shane Burgos. Kattar is now poised to crack the featherweight top 5 with another highlight-reel finish in his Boston backyard.

Announced bouts on the card include:

  • In a clash of surging flyweights, No. 12 ranked contender Maycee Barber (5-0, fighting out of Greeley, Colo.) takes on dangerous finisher and No. 15 ranked Gillian Robertson (7-3, fighting out of Coconut Creek, Fla. by way of  Niagara Falls, Ont., Canada)
  • Deron Winn (6-0, fighting out of Gilroy, Calif.) looks to remain undefeated against tough Darren Stewart (10-4 1NC, fighting out of London, England)
  • Daniel Spitz (6-2, fighting out of Spokane, Wash.) welcomes newcomer Tanner Boser (16-5-1, fighting out of Edmonton, Alta., Canada) to the UFC heavyweight division

·       Molly McCann (9-2, fighting out of Liverpool, England) goes for her third straight win against Diana Belbita (13-4, fighting out of Drobeta-Turnu Severin, Romania)

·       Dana White’s Contender Series signeeBrendan Allen (11-3, fighting out of Milwaukee, Wisc.) debuts against Eric Spicely(12-6, fighting out of Olneyville, R.I.)

·       Massachusetts native Randy Costa (4-1, fighting out of Taunton, Mass.) looks for an impressive win at home against Boston Salmon (6-2, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.)

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

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

Tickets for UFC FIGHT NIGHT ON ESPN®: REYES vs. WEIDMAN go on sale Friday, August 23 at 10 a.m. ET. Tickets are available for purchase at ticketmaster.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person.

UFC Fight Club® members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets Wednesday, August 21 at 10 a.m. ET via the website www.ufcfightclub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thursday, August 22 starting at 10 a.m. ET. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

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About UFC®

UFC® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 300 million fans and 70 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to nearly one billion TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 60 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC was acquired in 2016 by global entertainment, sports and content company Endeavor, along with strategic investors Silver Lake Partners and KKR. UFC is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat and Instagram: @UFC.

About TD Garden

TD Garden, owned and operated by Delaware North, first opened its doors to the public on September 30, 1995. In the 20 plus years since, the venue has generated more than $365 million in direct economic impact to the Greater Boston region from its major national events alone, not including its high-profile Bruins and Celtics tenants.  The arena has played host to countless marquee events, including the Democratic National Convention, NHL All-Star Game, NCAA Frozen Fours, NCAA Women’s Final Four, U.S. Gymnastics Olympic Trials, U.S. Figure Skating Championships and ISU World Figure Skating Championships among others. 

About ESPN

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




HRGOVI? PROMISES EXCITEMENT AGAINST HEREDIA IN MEXICO

Filip Hrgovi? (8-0, 6 KOs) is promising excitement as he travels to Hermosillo, Mexico for a defence of his WBC International Heavyweight title against Mario Heredia (16-6-1, 13 KOs) on Saturday, August 24, live on DAZN in the US and Sky Sports in the UK. 

The Croatian boxing sensation returns to action following a first-round knockout win over Gregory Corbin in Maryland, and will be aiming for knockout number seven against the in-form Mexican at the Centro de Usos Múltiples.

“This is what I live for, every day of my life,” says Hrgovi?. “Boxing makes me feel alive. My preparations have gone perfect and I can’t wait to step in the ring again.

“I had four weeks in Zagreb with my coaches Yousef Hassan and Igor Cordas before going to Miami for a six week training camp with Pedro Diaz. We have done some things differently this time, which you will see on August 24.

“I’m feeling great and ready for my next victory. I hope it is going to finish like my last fight, but we will see. Knockouts are always more attractive for fans but if the fight continues round by round, I’m more than ready for that option as well.

“Either way, the fans can expect good boxing show, for sure. They are all familiar with my boxing style, and no doubt, I will give them an exciting fight!”

On a night headlined by pound-for-pound star Juan Francisco Estrada (39-3, 6 KOs) defending his WBC and Ring Magazine Super-Flyweight titles against Dewayne Beamon (16-1-1, 11 KOs), Liam Smith (27-2-1, 15 KOs) and Jono Carroll (16-1-1, 3 KOs) will aim to move into position to get World title shots in the winter.

Former Uzbek amateur star Shakhram Giyasov (8-0, 6 KOs) faces a step-up in his ninth fight over ten rounds against former World champion Darleys Perez (34-4-2, 22 KOs), and young Mexican talents Alexis Espino (3-0, 2 KOs) and Diego Pacheco (4-0, 3 KOs) continue their pro journeys on home turf.




Top Rank Signs Unbeaten Puerto Rican Featherweight Orlando Gonzalez

(Aug. 20, 2019) — Top Rank has signed undefeated Puerto Rican featherweight sensation Orlando “Zurdo de Oro” Gonzalez to a multi-year promotional agreement.

From Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, Gonzalez is 12-0 with eight knockouts, most recently scoring a six-round unanimous decision Aug. 2 over Aldimar Silva in Kissimmee, Florida.

He is the older cousin of unbeaten super featherweight prospect and fellow Top Rank signee Henry “Moncho” Lebron.

“Signing with Top Rank represents the best opportunity for my career and to expose my talent to the world,” Gonzalez said. “I have enough experience because I had 178 amateur fights. I achieved a lot during my time with the Puerto Rican national team, which prepared me to become a professional.

“In my last fights, I have had to implement a rigorous, strong and high-pressure style. However, I am ready when I have to demonstrate my technical arsenal.

“Now, more than ever, fans can expect the best from me. Everything has been part of a plan, and thank God my time has come to shine on the biggest stages.”

Said Top Rank matchmaker Brad Goodman: “Orlando is a very well-schooled young fighter who we expect big things from in the coming years. Like Henry Lebron, we believe Orlando has everything it takes to become a world champion.”

A three-year pro, Gonzalez turned pro following a 162-16 amateur campaign that included a gold medal at the 2012 Pan American Youth Championships. Gonzalez is a versatile southpaw who made his most emphatic statement May 25 on the Jamel Herring-Masayuki Ito undercard, knocking out Roxberg Patrick Riley (13-1 at the time) in the third round. 




Greg Cohen Promotions Signs African Super Featherweight Prospect Oluwaseun Joshua Wahab

Greg Cohen Promotions proudly announces the signing of undefeated African super featherweight Oluwaseun Joshua “The Machine” Wahab (18-0, 11 KOs) to a promotional contract.

21-year-old Wahab was born in Nigeria, but fought as an amateur for Ghana, where he was a three-time national amateur champion. He was mentored by Ghanaian great Azumah Nelson, who is widely considered the greatest African boxers of all time and trained by Nelson’s brother Charles.

Wahab has fought his entire professional career in Africa but will soon relocate to Las Vegas where he will work with another great former champion, Eddie Mustafa Muhammad. He was scheduled to make his US debut against former No. 1-ranked U.S. amateur Abraham Nova (12-0, 10 KOs) in an eight-round super featherweight bout February 1st of this year on ShoBox: The New Generation, however, this bout never materialized due to immigration delays. He’s scheduled to make his next appearance in Harare, Zimbabwe, before making his US debut later this year.

“I’m honored to have gained such important American representation,” said Wahab. “My goal is to come to the United States and train among other world-class boxers. I will be Africa’s next great champion.”

Wahab is currently managed by Nelson Aiyelabowo of LPMG Global, one of Africa’s largest boxing management companies.

“I feel great about this deal for Oluwaseun,” said Aiyelabowo. “I’ve been working with Greg for years and it’s a really a pleasure to bring a top talent to GCP. Oluwaseun is definitely one of the top-five talents in his weight class. That’s why he’s coming to America. Azumah has worked with him to this point and now he has his blessing to go ahead and conquer the world.”

Greg Cohen, known for discovering and developing unknown talents into champions, says his newest prospect is also his next coup in the world of boxing.

“Oluwaseun Joshua Wahab is a beast,” said Cohen. “He’s going to be unstoppable when he gets over here. I’ve been working with Nelson Aiyelabowo for many years and he and I both agree this is the next African superstar. I’m very proud to be working with him and his team and the boxing world should be getting ready for ‘The Machine.’”




RESPONDING TO TYSON’S FURY’S RECENT REMARKS, IBF #1 CONTENDER KUBRAT PULEV SAYS HE WILL CRUSH FURY RIGHT AFTER HE WINS THE HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

IBF #1-rated heavyweight contender Kubrat “The Cobra” Pulev has responded to former unified WBA, IBF, and WBO (and current Lineal) Heavyweight Champion Tyson Fury’s public claims that he turned down a fight with “The Gypsy King.”

Pulev asserts it is the exact opposite situation, in fact.

“Fury is using me and some other boxers that he knows are currently unavailable for different reasons, just so he can get some PR,” said Pulev. “A few years ago, Fury refused a fight with me and not because he wasn’t available like I am right now. He was available. He was just scared!”

By winning a unanimous decision over Fury’s cousin Hughie last October, Pulev became the mandatory next fight for the winner of the upcoming Ruiz vs. Joshua rematch.

Fury made the claim that Pulev is afraid to fight while justifying facing his next opponent, lesser-known Swedish heavyweight Otto Wallin on September 14 in Las Vegas.

“My first goal is to become a world champion,” continued the Bulgarian slugger, “not to just fight random unknown opponents like he’s doing! Winning those belts are my main focus right now. Fury’s turn will come and, when it does, I will make him just as powerless as his cousin, who also used to talk a lot.”




BLAIR “THE FLAIR” COBBS TRAINING CAMP QUOTES

LAS VEGAS, NV (August 19, 2019) – Prince Ranch Boxing’s undefeated welterweight prospect, Blair “The Flair” Cobbs (12-0-1, 7 KOs), who is by promoted by Golden Boy Promotions, will battle fellow undefeated prospect Steven Villalobos (11-0-1, 9 KOs) in a 10-round bout for Cobbs Jr. NABF title.

Cobbs vs. Villalobos will be shown live on RingTV.com and on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT. Tickets for the event are on sale and start at $25. Tickets will be available at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino box office, by calling 1-800-827-2946, or by purchasing online at www.fantasyspringsresort.com.

Here is what Blair Cobbs, who is managed by Greg Hannley of Prince Ranch Boxing had to say about his upcoming fight with Villalobos, training camp and more.

On his matchup against Steven Villalobos:

“I’m expecting a tough fight from Villalobos, who bring his own undefeated record to the ring. Whenever you have two undefeated prospects looking to stay undefeated, you know its going to be a fan friendly fight. He has a lot of power, but so do I, so its going to come down to who wants it more. I’ll be letting my hands go with bad intentions and If I get him hurt, I’m taking him out.”

On his recent training camp:

“My trainers Bones Adams and Brandon Woods have put together a great strategy for this fight. We’ve been working on several things in camp and it will all be on display for the world to see when I step into the ring on August 22nd. It’s been a hard training camp, but very productive.”

On defending his Jr. NABF Welterweight title:
“I’m looking to defend this title with everything I got, because I know that a victory will put me in a better position to fight for a world title. Defending this belt will be the first of many that will be acquired down the line as I march up the welterweight rankings.

On fighting at the Fantasy Springs Resort and Casino:

“I love fighting in the desert. The fans that come out and support boxing at the Fantasy Springs Casino are very energetic and I can definitely feel the love with I fight there. It’s all about entertaining the fans and that’s exactly what I’m going to do. It’s the Blair “The Flair” show, and I won’t be denied….WHOOOO!

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Feliciano vs. Gamez is a 10-round super lightweight fight presented by Golden Boy. The event is sponsored by Tecate “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING.” The fight will take place Thursday, August 22, 2019 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif. The event will be streamed live on RingTV.com and on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT. The series will also be available on regional sports networks around the nation. To see when and where the series is available in your area, click here.

Media interested covering Feliciano vs. Gamez must be pre-approved for credentials. Credential applications are due Monday, Aug. 19 at 5:00 p.m. PT. Click here to apply for a media credential. Submitting an application does not guarantee approval for a credential on-site, no expectations.

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

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




STAR BOXING SIGNS HEAVYWEIGHT CONTENDER CARLOS TAKAM

New York, August 19, 2019

Star Boxing is excited to officially announce the signing of distinguished heavyweight title contender CARLOS TAKAM (36-5-1 28KO’s) of France, by way of Douala, Cameroon. Standing at 6’3″, the heavy handed, Takam has taken on some of the best in the business, in the heavyweight division. Star Boxing revealed the signing last week on its social media platforms.

Takam was an amateur standout in Cameroon. In 2003, he competed in the All-African Games in Nigeria, finishing with a bronze medal. In 2004, Takam qualified for the Athens, Greece Summer Olympics by earning Gold at the AIBA African Olympic Qualifying tournament in Morocco. Later that year, representing his native country of Cameroon, Takam fought in the Summer Olympic games in Athens, Greece, making it to the sweet sixteen.

Turning pro in 2005, just one year after the Olympics, Takam was an immediate force to be reckoned with in the heavyweight division. After securing a record of 23-1 with 18KO’s, Takam defeated GBENGA OLUOKUN (then 18-5 12KO’s) by TKO to earn his first professional title, becoming the WBO International African Heavyweight Champion. Since then, Takam has held multiple titles, including the WBC Silver World Championship, the IBF Intercontinental Championship, and the WBF World Championship.

From 2011 on, Takam fought a gruesome list of boxing’s best heavyweights which include, heavyweight world title challengers, FRANS BOTHA (then 48-6-3 29KO’S), MICHAEL GRANT (then 48-7 36KO’S), TONY THOMPSON (then 39-4 27KO’s), JOSEPH PARKER (Then 18-0 16KO’s), DERECK CHISORA (then 28-8 21KO’s) as well as former world champion, ALEXANDER POVETKIN (then 27-1 20KO’s). In 2017, Takam challenged ANTHONY JOSHUA (19-0 19KO’s) in the biggest, bout of his career, for the WBA, IBF and IBO World Heavyweight Titles.

In Takam’s last bout in December 2018, he defeated German prospect, SENAD GASHI (then 17-1 17KO’s) who was favored in the bout. Gashi was a 5x Saarland Champion, 2x Gold International Boxing champion, 2x Gold German Open champion, amongst many other accolades in the amateurs. The bout took place at the 02 Arena in London, ending in a seventh round TKO victory for Takam.

Takam said this about signing with Star Boxing, “I’m very happy to sign with Joe and Star Boxing. It’s almost one year now I’m free agent. I didn’t sign with any promoter. I have had several propositions on the table, but with Joe [DeGuardia], the way I see, I have good feeling that we can achieve my potential together. I have big ambition in boxing for these coming years. Because I was taking my time looking around before to make any decision. I am ready to do the job.”

Manager of Carlos Takam, DWIGHT YARDE, had this to say about the opportunities that are ahead for Team Takam with Star Boxing, “Exciting times in the heavyweight division! I have known Joe [DeGuardia] for some 20 years and truly believe he is the man to take Team Takam to the heavyweight title. With Carlos’ ability as a fighter, nothing can stop us now. Heavyweight division watch out – we are coming.”

Star Boxing CEO, JOE DEGUARDIA said this about the signing of Takam, “Carlos is a world class heavyweight who has faced some of the best in the division. Throughout boxing history, the heavyweight division has always cultivated the most buzz, and that buzz is back.” DeGuardia continued, “I think highly of Carlos. The hard-core boxing experts know how good he is, but now he will show the casual fans and will surprise many as to how good he can still be. We are really excited to bring some big things to the table for him, and are confident that a heavyweight championship of the world bout is in his future.”




Steven Ortiz, Alejandro Salinas to headline Xcite Fight Night 5 At Parx Casino® on Friday, Sept. 20th

Bensalem, PA-Joe Hand Promotions returns to Parx Casino® to kick off the fall boxing season on September 20th with Xcite Fight Night 5. The event will be headlined by a lightweight showcase between Steven “The Hitman” Ortiz and Alejandro “Popo” Salinas.The card is co-promoted by BAM Boxing and features matchmaking by Hall of Famer J. Russell Peltz.

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

Ortiz (10-0-0, 3 K0s), a Philadelphia native, won the vacant USA Pennsylvania State lightweight title in his last bout against Jeremy Cuevas in February. He’s excited to remain close to home for his return to action.

“I’m glad to be back in the ring again, after months of hard and dedicated training,” Ortiz said.

That training will be valuable, as his opponent Alejandro Salinas (10-2-0, 9 K0s) is also a state champion from Ohio. Ortiz is excited for the challenge.

“He’s a very skilled fighter and has an outstanding record,” Ortiz said. “The only difference is, he hasn’t fought anyone like me, my power, my speed. I’m very dangerous. He will soon know that. It’s going to be a great fight.”

In the co-feature, exciting prospect Omar Kabary Salem (9-0-0 4 K0s) takes his biggest step up in competition by facing former ABF USA Middleweight champion Jamaal “Da Truth” Davis (18-15-1, 7 K0s) in a super-middleweight battle.

The undercard features a classic battle between orthodox and southpaw – as well as PA versus New Jersey- as undefeated Joshafat Ortiz (6-0-0 4 K0s) takes on Andrew “Sweet Pea” Bentley (5-3-0 1 K0). That fight will take place at super featherweight.

The Bucks County native Milton “El Santo” Santiago (17-0-0 3 K0s), returns to the ring after more than 16 months away.

Super lightweights Daiyann Butt (4-0-0 2 K0s) and Tyhler Williams (3-0-0 2 K0s) are both looking to continue their win streaks at Parx Casino as they return again to Xcite Fight Night in separate fights.

ABOUT PARX CASINO®

Parx Casino® is owned and operated by Greenwood Racing, Inc. and is the #1 revenue generating casino property in Pennsylvania. Parx Casino® is conveniently located 20 minutes north of center city Philadelphia, I-95vexit 37 or PA Turnpike exit 351 (westbound), exit 352 (eastbound) on Street Road in Bensalem Bucks County. Parx features over 200,000 square feet of gaming; 3,270 slot machines and 148 live table games; 40 poker tables; live racing & simulcast action; Parx Grill, an upscale signature restaurant; Foodies quick service dining; Chickie’s & Pete’s Crab House and Sports Bar; Jax sports bar; Circle Bar; Bambu Noodle House; The Lucky Cheese ~ gourmet grilled cheese eatery; XLounge, luxury casino lounge and complimentary parking for over 5,000 cars. One year ago, Parx debuted a $50M expansion that included the 1,500-seat live entertainment venue, Xcite Center; Liberty Bell Gastropub, farm-to-fork inspired menu; Oliveto, New York City style pizza and Italian Classics; Parx Poker, new
custom built private poker room. In 2019, Parx launched sports betting and opened a massive year-round Beer Garden to rave reviews. For more information on Parx Casino®, visit www.parxcasino.com.




AZAT ‘CRAZY A’ HOVHANNISYAN TO FIGHT FRANKLIN MANZANILLA IN MAIN EVENT OF GOLDEN BOY DAZN THURSDAY NIGHT FIGHTS

LOS ANGELES (Aug. 19, 2019): Explosive super bantamweight contender Azat “Crazy A” Hovhannisyan (17-3, 14 KOs) will headline the Sept. 5 edition of Golden Boy DAZN Thursday Night Fights against fellow former world title challenger Franklin Manzanilla (18-5, 17 KOs) in a 12-round super bantamweight fight at the Belasco Theater in Los Angeles. The event will be streamed live on RingTV.com and on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT. The series will also be available on regional sports networks around the nation.

Hovhannisyan is a 31-year-old slugger who has developed into one of the most exciting contenders in the 122-pound division. After victories against the likes of Ronny Rios and Sergio “El Frio Finito” Frias, the native of Yerevan, Armenia earned is first world title opportunity against Rey Vargas in May 2018. Hovhannisyan delivered an impressive performance, though he was unsuccessful. He is now coming of three straight knockout victories and will be one step away from a world title shot if he can get past Manzanilla.

“I feel I have a big responsibility by being the main event,” said Azat Hovhannisyan. “I feel I have to put on an even better show now. Manzanilla is strong, but his boxing abilities aren’t strong. On Sept. 5, there will be a knockout.”

Despite a rough start to his professional career, Manzanilla exploded onto the scene at 122 pounds with a stunning upset victory against Julio Cesar “Pollito” Ceja in May of last year. That victory earned the Venezuelan contender a shot at Rey Vargas for the WBC Super Bantamweight World Title in February of this year. The 31-year-old boxer delivered a great performance and even dropped Vargas early in the fight Both me have fought the same person for a title belt, and now they’ll see who among them is worthy of another title shot.

“Without a doubt I left a great impression in my United States debut against world champion Rey Vargas,” said Franklin Manzanilla. “Now they have offered the opportunity to fight Azat Hovhannisyan, who is a strong fighter that is highly recognized in the sport. However, I promise that I will walk away with my hand raised in victory to show that I am a solid contender for a world championship.”

In the co-main event, Francisco “El Alacran” Esparza (9-1-1, 3 KOs) of Las Vegas will fight Rigoberto Hermosillo (11-1-1, 8 KOs) of Guadalajara, Mexico in an eight-round lightweight battle.

Edwin Soto (8-0, 8 KOs) of Salinas, Puerto Rico will return in a four-round bout in the super featherweight division.

Chris “Milly” Ousley (10-0, 8 KOs) of Chicago will take on Even Torres (7-8, 5 KOs) of El Paso, Texas in a six-round super welterweight bout.

James Wilkins (7-1, 6 KOs) of Staten Island, N.Y. will participate in a six-round super featherweight bout.

Opponents for Soto and Wilkins will be announced shortly.

Hovhannisyan vs. Manzanilla is a 12-round super bantamweight fight presented by Golden Boy. The event is sponsored by Tecate “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING.” The fights take place Thursday, Sept. 5 at the Belasco Theater in Los Angeles. The event will be streamed live on RingTV.com and on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT. The series will also be available on regional sports networks around the nation. To see when and where the series is available in your area, click here.

Tickets for the event are on sale now and start at the fan-friendly price of $25. Tickets are available for purchase now at http://www.goldenboytickets.com/.

Media interested in covering Hovhannisyan vs. Manzanilla must be pre-approved for credentials. Credential applications are due Monday, Sept. 2 at 5:00 p.m. PT, and can be found here. Submitting an application does not guarantee approval for a credential. You cannot transfer your credentials to someone else. Media will not be credentialed on-site, no exceptions.

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

Videos and images are available for download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link http://bit.ly/HovhannisyanManzanilla. Credit must be given to Golden Boy for any photos/video.




RJJ Boxing announces exclusive deal with Eldorado Group to co-promote multiple installments on UFC FIGHT PASS®

LAS VEGAS (August 19, 2019) – Roy Jones Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions has reached an exclusive agreement with Eldorado Group to co-promote multiple installments of “RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS®,” commencing October 25 with Joey Gilbert Promotions in Reno, Nevada.

The Oct. 25th show in Reno will be streamed live and exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT, from a venue to be determined.

“Everyone has seen all the excitement the Eldorado Group has going on,” RJJ Boxing CEO and Co-Founder Keith Veltre said. “Signing a deal of this magnitude is sending a strong message to the public that Eldorado Group wants to deliver the best in combat sports to its customers. Adding Joey Gilbert as a co-promoter only adds to the growing excitement RJJ Boxing Promotions has in the store for the future. Joey is a massive asset to what we are doing. Roy and I are super happy that he’s part of the team.”

In addition to being a combat sports promoter, Gilbert is a criminal defense and personal injury lawyer in Reno, as well as a sports agent and motivational speaker. He earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of Nevada, where he was an outstanding amateur boxer, double majoring in English Literature and Political Science, and he went on to graduate from Thomas Jefferson Law School in San Diego.

Now retired as a boxer, Gilbert fought professionally from 2000-2010, compiling a 20-3 (15 KOs) record. He gained tremendous exposure participating in popular reality television series, The Contender, Season One.

“I am thrilled to bring professional boxing back to Reno,” CEO Joey Gilbert commented. “Reno has always been a fight town. I benefitted from this as both an amateur and professional fighter. I am beyond delighted to be involved in this endeavor with Roy Jones, Jr., who I have always held in such high regard, and looked up to as a fighter.

“I have been thoroughly impressed with the RJJ Boxing executive team and CEO Keith Veltre, who certainly produces one of the highest-quality and exciting boxing shows that I have ever seen. Together with UFC FIGHT PASS, we will absolutely impress and exceed expectations of all local fight fans, and The Row will be hosting this exciting opportunity. This will be one of many new fighting opportunities for our community to enjoy. I am excited that Eldorado Resorts International threw its proverbial hat in the ring to support this program. It’s safe to say that I can see this being the first fight series of many across numerous El Dorado International properties in the United States.”

The fight card will be announced at a future date.

INFORMATION:

Websites: www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com
Twitter: @RoyjonesJRfa, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @UFCFightPass, @JoeyPromotions
Instagram: @RoyJonesJRboxing, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @artofmusiclv, @rivalboxinggear, @JoeyPromotions
Facebook: /RJJBoxing, /JoeyPromotions

Upcoming RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS events:
Aug. 2 at Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada: Wahlstrom vs. Jeffrey (WBC world championship

Aug. 24 at Viajas Casino and Resort in Alpine, California: Torres vs. M. Dominguez




Prograis in talks to re-enter WBSS

Junior Welterweight titlist Regis Prograis is in talks to re-enter the World Boxing Super Series, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com

Prograis left the tournament last week after organizers failed to meet financial obligations.

“We always wanted to resolve this and right now that is what we are attempting to do,” Lou DiBella, Prograis’ promoter, told ESPN on Monday. “Regis doesn’t want to sit out and he wants to win the tournament.”

“WBSS strenuously denies that it has violated any contractual obligation towards Regis Prograis or DiBella Entertainment Inc. The WBSS has enforced its tournament contracts in the past. It will do so again with all resources available if needed.

“We look forward to the upcoming final of the (junior welterweights) for the Ali Trophy between Regis Prograis and Josh Taylor. It promises to be a spectacular boxing night. WBSS will defend the tournament against any attempts of third parties to interfere with the tournament with all means and in all jurisdictions available as necessary.”




YARDE: THIS IS NO ROCKY MOVIE

ANTHONY YARDE WAS quick to dispel the notion that his forthcoming mission into Russia to face Sergey Kovalev bears some sort of comparison to the storyline behind Rocky IV.

The unbeaten light heavyweight KO-artist this week travels to the outpost of Chelyabinsk, the home town of the man known as Krusher, in a bid to prize the WBO world title from the formidable foe.

Of course, in the fourth instalment of the Rocky series, Ivan Drago – played by Dolph Lundgren – was exported to America and slayed former world champion Apollo Creed in an exhibition contest, prompting Rocky to brave a brutal winter and go into full log-chopping mode to exact his Russian revenge.

“I don’t know about all that,” said the 18-0 challenger. “I like to keep movies as movies and reality as reality.

“I ain’t going out there and doing no Rocky IV because I’m sure the punches Rocky Balboa was taking were very unrealistic and I am not looking to leave there with a face looking like that!

“I am not looking to take as much punishment as Rocky did and I am not even putting that kind of thing into my brain. That was a movie and I would like to keep it as a movie.

“I might watch Rocky IV after the fight.”

Indeed, Yarde won’t be following a film script when he rocks up at the Traktor Sport Palace. In fact, visualising the experience at all – a popular tactic with elite sports people – will prove tricky because Yarde has no idea what to expect from his voyage into the unknown.

“I have no clue and that is the excitement for me,” added the 28-year-old. “I don’t know nothing, literally nothing! I don’t know what the venue is going to look like, what the crowd is going to be like…

“I might go out there and some of the crowd will be cheering for me. We might be fighting in the gym of his old secondary school. I don’t know.

“Again, that is the beauty of it and that is the challenge.”

Sergey Kovalev v Anthony Yarde for the WBO world light heavyweight title is live and exclusive on BT Sport 2 from 5pm on Saturday




Navarrete Retains Super Bantam Title; Stops De Vaca in 3

Emanuel Navarrete retained the WBO Super Bantamweight title with a 3rd round stoppage over previously undefeated Francisco De Vaca at the Bank of California Stadium in Los Angeles.

In round two, Navarrete dropped De Vaca with a left hook. In round three, Navarrete bloodied and battered De Vaca until the fight was topped at 1:54.

Navarrete, 122 lbs of Mexico City is 28-1 with 24 knockouts. De Vaca, 122 lbs of Phoenix, AZ is 20-1.

Former world champion Jessie Magdaleno won a technical decision after he was cut from a headbutt in round nine of their scheduled 10-round featherweight bout.

In round four, Magdaleno was cut on the nose with from an accidental headbutt.

In round nine, Magdaleno dropped Rivera with a right hook. Later in the round Magdaleno was cut around the right eye from another headbutt, and the fight was called due to the cut.

Magdaleno, 125.4 lbs of Las Vegas won by scores of 88-82 and 89-81 twice, and is now 27-1. Rivera, 125.6 lbs of Tijuana, MX is 27-4-2-1.




CHARLES FOSTER DEFEATS DENIS GRACHEV BY UNANIMOUS DECISION TO DEFEND NABA TITLE

Springfield, Massachusetts (August 17th, 2019):

In a special matinee outdoor event at MGM Springfield presented by Murphys Boxing and broadcast live on UFC Fight Pass, Charles Foster (19-0, 9 KOs) defended his NABA Light Heavyweight Championship against Denis Grachev (19-8-1, 10 KOs) winning a 10 round unanimous decision.

Foster, who is currently ranked #8 in the world by the WBA, outboxed the game Russian from the start, using his superior speed and ring generalship to win by scores of 100-90, 97-93 and 97-91.

To Grachev’s credit, he came forward the entire fight looking for an opportunity but he could never land more than one punch at a time and found himself walking into Foster’s combinations.

“I felt good about my performance tonight.”, said the world ranked contender who fights for Murphys Boxing.

“Grachev was durable and strong. He’s been in there with world champions and contenders and I was still able to sweep him with a unanimous decision. Definitely a good learning experience. I got cut in the second round and had to fight the rest of the night with it. I stayed calm under the pressure and I need to experience that type of adversity. Now it’s on to the next one. I want another fighter in the Top 10. I think I’m about two or three fights away from a world title shot.”

In regards to his next opponent, the soft spoken contender who prefers to do his talking in the ring, did mention one name he would love to share the ring with next.

“It’s up to my promoter, Murphys Boxing, my manager and my coach in regards to who I fight next but if I had my pick I would want to fight Jean Pascal. He looked great winning the WBA Interim Championship in a big upset and I’m ranked #8 in the world by the WBA and have the NABA title. I think it would make for a great fight between a former world champ and an undefeated contender. The winner would definitely be deserving of a world title shot.”

In additional action on the card…

In a shocking upset, former USA Olympian, Devin Vargas (21-5, 9 KOs) handed popular Irish heavyweight prospect, Niall Kennedy (13-1-1, 8 KOs) his first professional defeat by TKO in the 5th round of a scheduled 10 round bout.

Kennedy started strong, hurting Vargas in the third round but the crafty veteran began timing the undefeated prospect with surprisingly fast combinations. Continually beating Kennedy to the punch, the 37 year old showed flashes of the speed and ring generalship that once made him captain of the 2004 United States Olympic Boxing Team. After hurting and cornering Kennedy late in the 5th round, Vargas unleashed a barrage of punches that snapped the Irishman’s head back multiple times forcing the referee to stop the contest with only two seconds remaining in the round.

Kennedy, who has amassed an impressive following in the Massachusetts area and was on the verge of a world ranking, was naturally disappointed but still gracious and classy in defeat giving all credit to Vargas who in turn showed mutual respect to his opponent.

It was a show stealing, action packed heavyweight battle and it now leaves Vargas, a father of 5 who works full time at a Toledo, Ohio jeep manufacturing plant and also works as a high school football coach, suddenly back in the mix in the red hot division.

Springfield’s own Anthony Velazquez (7-0, 7 KOs) stopped Philadelphia’s Vincent Floyd (4-8-1, 2 KOs) 58 seconds into the 4th round of a 6 round welterweight bout. Floyd, who was giving the flashy young power puncher his toughest test to date, rightfully complained about a quick stoppage after a flurry from Velazquez brought the contest to a sudden end. The tough as nails Philly fighter, while down on the cards, didn’t even seem in trouble let alone hurt, but the crowd was in a frenzy and it may have influenced the hasty stoppage. Regardless with his combination of speed and power, Velazquez is without a doubt one of New England’s most promising young fighters.

Back from one of the shorter retirements in recent memory, world title challenger and New England fan favorite, Shelly Vincent (26-2, 1 KO) returned to the ring to win a unanimous decision over Karen Dulin (3-20-1, 1 KO) in a 6 round featherweight bout. ‘Shelito’s Way’ dedicated the fight to her first trainer who recently passed away and hinted at retirement again but said the right fight could bring her back to the ring.

Elvis Figueroa (7-0, 4 KOs) who trains alongside Charles Foster in New Haven made incredibly short work of Argentina’s Marcelo Molina (23-16-1, 19 KOs) overwhelming and stopping him in the 1st round of a 6 round super middleweight bout.

Albany, New York’s Ray Jay Bermudez (8-0, 5 KOs) won a unanimous, but very close, decision against Quincy, Florida’s Leonardo Kenon (3-7, 1 KO) in a back and forth 4 round junior welterweight bout.

Derrick Whitley Jr. (6-1-1) of Springfield’s famed fighting Whitley family won a unanimous decision over Massachusetts veteran Antonio Chaves Fernandez (9-29-4, 3 KOs) in a 6 round welterweight bout.

Springfield’s Josh Orta (5-0, 2 KOs) won a unanimous decision over Argentina’s Matias Arriagada (6-7, 3 KOs) in a well matched 4 round junior welterweight bout.

In the opener, Springfield’s Rollin Whitley (1-0) made his long awaited professional debut winning a unanimous decision over Florida first timer, Ayron Palmer (0-1). Whitley pumped up the partisan crowd by coming out to the ring to the theme song from the classic tv western, Rawhide before dropping Palmer in the 1st round on way to a 4 round unanimous decision in a competitive fight in the junior welterweight division.




Light Heavyweight Mayhem: Unbeaten Champions Beterbiev and Gvozdyk Set to Unify Titles October 18 in Philadelphia LIVE on ESPN and ESPN Deportes

PHILADELPHIA (Aug. 17, 2019) — Two very bad men are set for an old-fashioned Philadelphia throwdown.

WBC light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk and IBF light heavyweight world champion Artur Beterbiev will fight in a highly anticipated title unification bout Friday, Oct. 18 at the Liacouras Center. 

Beterbiev and Gvozdyk enter this can’t-miss clash with a combined record of 31-0 with 28 knockouts.

Gvozdyk-Beterbiev will headline a special edition of Top Rank on ESPN beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes.

The undercard will stream live on ESPN+ — the industry-leading sports streaming service — beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Peltz Boxing, tickets priced at $150, $90, $75 and $50 (not including applicable fees) go on sale Friday, Aug. 23 at 12 p.m. ET and can be purchased at the Liacouras Center Box Office, www.liacourascenter.com or charge by phone at 800-298-4200.

“This could very well be the fight of the year,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “These are two evenly matched, undefeated light heavyweight champions. There is nothing better in the sport of boxing.”

“My first goal was to win a light heavyweight world title. Now, I want to unify the belts, and that mission starts with Artur Beterbiev,” Gvozdyk said. “This is going to be a spectacular fight, one that the fans will enjoy. The fans asked for this fight, and we will deliver. One thing I know is that I will be the unified champion. I have the best trainer, Teddy Atlas, in my corner. This is our third fight together, and under his guidance, I will continue to get better.”

“I wish to thank Top Rank and my opponent, Oleksandr Gvozdyk, for making this unification bout possible and giving the fans around the world what they want,” Beterbiev said. “This will be a great fight between the two champions who aspire to become the undisputed light heavyweight world champion. I am looking forward to stepping into the ring on October 18.”

Gvozdyk (17-0, 14 KOs) will be making the second defense of the title he won from longtime champion Adonis Stevenson in a come-from-behind 11th-round KO last December in Quebec City, Canada. He followed up the Stevenson win with a dominant fifth-round TKO March 30 over Doudou Ngumbu in Philadelphia, where a large Ukrainian contingent showed up to cheer on their countryman. Gvozdyk captured a bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics, where he was teammates with current professional stablemate and pound-for-pound great Vasiliy Lomachenko. A five-year pro, Gvozdyk climbed the ranks with victories over established veterans like Isaac Chilemba, Yunieski Gonzalez and Nadjib Mohammedi.

Beterbiev (14-0, 14 KOs), a former Russian amateur star, has a come-forward, take-no-prisoners ring approach that has made him the only current world champion with a 100 percent KO ratio. He won the vacant IBF world title with a 12th-round TKO over Enrico Koelling, preserving his perfect KO record by stopping Koelling with 27 seconds left in the bout. His two title defenses have lasted a total of nine rounds, and most recently, he walked through longtime contender Radivoje “Hot Rod“ Kalajdzic in five rounds in the main event of the May 4 Top Rank on ESPN telecast.

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

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




VINCENT FEIGENBUTZ WINS IBO INTERNATIONAL TITLE AND EYES WORLD TITLE SHOT AGAINST EUBANK JR

Vincent Feigenbutz (31-2, 28 KOs) claimed the IBO International Super Middleweight title with an emphatic eight round TKO victory over the brave Cesar Nunez (16-1-1, 8 KOs) at the Friedrich-Ebert-Halle in Ludwigshafen, Germany. 

The previously unbeaten Cesar Nunez climbed off the canvas twice in the eighth round before the referee waved off proceedings following yet another onslaught from Vincent Feigenbutz. Having captured the IBO International belt, Feigenbutz moves closer towards a world title shot against Eubank Jr. 

“I implemented my tactics well, kept him at distance, varied my punches and found space,” said Feigenbutz. “I want to go to the top and take anyone who comes in my way. I’m not backing down from anyone.”

Vincent’s desire for a world title shot was echoed by his promoter Nisse Sauerland. “Vincent boxed really well, it was another entertaining and exciting performance. He took care of his job and he’s ready for big, big fights.”

Ahmad Ali (15-0-1, 10 KOs) maintained his unbeaten record with a unanimous points decision victory over Arman Torosyan (19-7-1) winning 117-109, 115-113 and 117-110. Sophie Alisch (4-0, 1 KO) put in another dazzling performance as she won every round and improved her record to 4-0 with victory over Vanesa Caballero (1-6-3). 

Team Sauerland’s latest Norwegian signings impressed on their German debuts, with Katharina Thanderz (12-0, 2 KOs) winning every round against Monica Gentili (6-11) whilst Hadi Srour (4-0, 2 KOs) overcame the tough Evgenii Vazem (8-8, 3 KOs) to win via unanimous decision. 




EARLY RESULTS FROM LOS ANGELES

Dmitry Yun was knocked down twice, but was still able to edge out a six-round unanimous decision over Javier Martinez in a lightweight bout.

Martinez was docked two points for spitting out his mouthpiece.

Yun, 135.4 lbs of Chelyabinsk, RUS won by scores of 57-54 twice and 56-54, and is now 2-0. Martinez, 134.5 lbs of Austin, TX is 4-7.




Weigh-In Results: Navarrete vs. De Vaca & Magdaleno vs. Rivera

Emanuel Navarrete 122 lbs vs. Francisco De Vaca 122 lbs
(Navarrete’s WBO Junior Featherweight title – 12 Rounds)

    Jessie Magdaleno 125.4 lbs vs. Rafael Rivera 125.6 lbs
(Magdaleno’s WBC USNBC Featherweight title  – 10 Rounds)

ESPN+ (6:30 p.m. ET)

       Arnold Barboza Jr. 141.6 lbs vs. Ricky Sismundo 141.4 lbs
(Super Lightweight – 10 Rounds)

     Janibek Alimkhanuly 159.8 lbs vs. Stuart McLellan 159.2 lbs
(Alimkhanuly’s WBC Continental Americas and WBO Global Middleweight titles – 10 Rounds)

Chris van Heerden 146.4 lbs vs. Aslanbek Kozaev 147 lbs
(Welterweight – 10/8 Rounds)

     Javier Molina 140.2 lbs vs. Manuel Mendez 141 lbs
(Super Lightweight – 8 Rounds)

Dmitry Yun 135.4 lbs vs. Javier Martinez 134.6 lbs
(Lightweight – 6 Rounds)

SWING BOUTS

    Elvis Rodriguez 140.8 lbs Jesus Gonzales 141 lbs
(Super Lightweight – 6 Rounds)

 Brian Mendoza 148 lbs Rosemberg Gomez 147.8 lbs
(Welterweight – 8/6 Rounds)

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Zanfer Promotions and Iron Boy Promotions, tickets priced at $100, $80, $70, $60, $45 and $25 (not including applicable fees) are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 800-745-3000 and in person at the Banc of California Stadium box office.

For more information, visit: www.toprank.comwww.espn.com/boxing; Facebook:facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing.
 Use the hashtags #NavarreteDeVaca and #MagdalenoRivera to join the conversation on social media.

###




UNBEATEN HEAVYWEIGHT PROSPECT STEPHAN SHAW FACES WILLIE JAKE JR. ON BROADWAY BOXING STREAMED LIVE ON UFC FIGHT PASS

New York, NY (August 16, 2019) On Thursday, August 29, undefeated heavyweight prospect Stephan “Big Shot” Shaw (11-0, 8 KOs), of St. Louis, MO, will face off against Willie “The Snake” Jake Jr. (8-2-1, 2 KOs), of Indianapolis, IN, in an eight-round featured bout on DiBella Entertainment’s Broadway Boxing series held at Foxwoods Resort Casino, in Mashantucket, CT. The event will be live streamed exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, starting at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. Broadway Boxing is presented by Nissan of Queens, Azad Watches, OPTYX, Christos Steak House and Gagliardi Insurance.

“Stephan Shaw is an unbeaten heavyweight prospect with a lot of potential. He has heavy hands and is coming off of a very impressive knockout in his last fight,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “On August 29, in a featured bout on the UFC Fight Pass stream, ‘Big Shot’ Shaw will be facing a stern test against Willie Jake, a southpaw who likes to mix it up and brawl, so the crowd at Foxwoods will be in for an entertaining fight. The bout compliments a terrific card that also features a New England featherweight matchup between Toka Kahn Clary and Irvin Gonzalez as well as women’s world champion Alicia Napoleon-Espinosa defending her title.”

Speaking from his training camp in San Diego where he is guided by former Olympic coach Basheer Abdullah, Shaw was enthusiastic about his fight on August 29.

“I’m very excited to be back in action and display my talents to the world once again. I’m coming off what I feel is the biggest win of my career so far.

“Willie Jake Jr. is a gutsy fighter, but he hasn’t faced anyone with the talent that I possess. He’s a southpaw and may be somewhat elusive, but my last opponent was an elusive southpaw and we saw how that worked out,” said the confident Shaw.

The 26-year-old Shaw turned professional in December 2013, starting off his pro career with three straight stoppages. Coming from a family of fighters, the 6’4″ Shaw capped his amateur years with 2013 championships at the USA Nationals and the National PAL tournament. On March 3, Shaw knocked out Donovan Dennis in the third round in Columbus, OH, on a special Broadway Boxing card from the annual Arnold Schwarzenegger Sports Festival.

Going into his last fight, Jake had rebounded well after his first loss in 2016, securing six victories and a draw. Now, following his loss to Frank Sanchez Faure in January, Jake will look to get back into the win column again. Prior to his November 2015 pro debut, Jake was a football player at Pasadena City College in California. An injury ended Jake’s football career early and he then turned to boxing, competing in 70 amateur bouts and winning a bronze medal at the 2012 National Golden Gloves tournament. Jake is trained by his father, Willie Sr., a former cruiserweight boxer during the nineties.

Headlining Broadway Boxing on Thursday, August 29, will be featherweight contenders Toka Kahn “T Nice” Clary (26-2, 18 KOs), a native of Liberia, now fighting out of Providence, RI, and Irvin Gonzalez (12-1, 9 KOs), of Worcester, MA, in a 10-round contest.

World champion Alicia “The Empress” Napoleon-Espinosa (11-1, 6 KOs), of Lindenhurst, NY, will defend her WBA Super Middleweight title for the second time against undefeated world-ranked contender Schemelle Baldwin (3-0-1, 2 KOs), a four-time Golden Gloves champion from Newark, DE.

Tickets for the Broadway Boxing event, presented by Nissan of Queens, Azad Watches, OPTYX, Christos Steak House and Gagliardi Insurance, are priced at $125, $75 and $45, and can be purchased online at Foxwoods.com, Ticketmaster.com, by calling 800-200-2882, or visiting the Foxwoods box office. Foxwoods Resort Casino is located at 350 Trolley Line Boulevard, Mashantucket, Connecticut 06338. Doors will open to the Fox Theater at 6:30 p.m., with the first fight scheduled for 7:30 p.m.




WEIGHTS FROM SPRINGFIELD, MASS. FOR ‘FOSTER VS. GRACHEV’ – WATCH TOMORROW AFTERNOON LIVE ON UFC FIGHT PASS & FACEBOOK

UFC FIGHT PASS LINE UP

Charles Foster 173.8 (18-0, 9 KOs) vs. Denis Grachev 174 (19-7-1, 10 KOs)
10 Rounds – NABA Light Heavyweight Championship
Niall Kennedy 222.6 (13-0-1, 8 KOs) vs. Devin Vargas 219.6 (20-5, 8 KOs)
10 Rounds Heavyweights
Anthony Velazquez 149.8 (6-0, 6 KOs) vs. Vincent Floyd 151.8 (4-7-1, 2 KOs)
6 Rounds Welterweights
FACEBOOK LINE UP

Shelly Vincent 125.8 (25-2, 1 KO) vs. Karen Dulin 124.4 (3-19-1, 1 KO)
8 Rounds Featherweights
Ray Jay Bermudez 140 (7-0, 5 KOs) vs. Leonardo Kenon 136.2 (3-6, 1 KO)
4 Rounds Junior Welterweights
Elvis Figueroa 167 (6-0, 3 KOs) vs. Marcelo Molina 166.2 (23-16-1, 19 KOs)
4 Rounds Super Middleweights

Derrick Whitley Jr. 148.4 (5-1-1) vs. Antonio Fernandez 148.6 (9-28-4, 3 KOs)
6 Rounds Welterweights

Josh Orta 127.8 (4-0, 2 KOs) vs. Matias Arriagada 124.4 (6-6, 3 KOs)
4 Rounds Junior Lightweights

Rollin Whitley 141.2 (0-0) vs. Ayron Palmer 137.4 (0-0)
4 Rounds Junior Welterweights

?Foster vs. Grachev for the NABA Light Heavyweight Championship takes place tomorrow afternoon – Saturday, August 17th in Springfield, Massachusetts at MGM Springfield. Doors open at 1pm for the special outdoor matinee event. Limited tickets remain at www.murphysboxing.com.

ABOUT MURPHYS BOXING

Murphys Boxing was founded by Dropkick Murphys’ frontman, Ken Casey in 2014. In just 5 short years, Murphys Boxing has become the premier boxing promoter in the New England area and one of the hottest young promotions in the country. 2018 was a breakout year for Murphys Boxing as they took their first fighter to a world title. Along with the promotion’s first champion, several Murphys Boxing fighters secured world title opportunities and nationally televised fights in 2018. Murphys Boxing closed out their banner year by co-promoting the WBO Middleweight Championship bout between Demetrius Andrade and Walter Kautondokwa in front of over 10,000 fans at the TD Garden, the legendary home of the Boston Celtics, which was broadcast internationally on DAZN. Murphys Boxing’s current roster features world ranked contenders like Mark DeLuca, Charles Foster, Abraham Nova, Carlos Gongora, Gary ‘Spike’ O’Sullivan, Greg Vendetti and undefeated prospects like Niall Kennedy, William Foster III, Luis Arcon and more! For more information visit: www.murphysboxing.com




FEIGENBUTZ AND NUNEZ MAKE WEIGHT AHEAD OF IBO INTERNATIONAL TITLE BOUT IN LUDWIGSHAFEN

Vincent Feigenbutz (30-2, 27 KOs) and Cesar Nunez (16-0-1, 8 KOs) both made weight today ahead of Saturday’s IBO International Super Middleweight title fight at the Friedrich-Ebert-Halle in Ludwigshafen, Germany. 

Feigenbutz became Germany’s youngest ever World Champion when he claimed the WBA Super Middleweight title in 2015 and is hoping that victory over Cesar Nunez will propel him back into contention for world honours. 

The ‘KO King’ Feigenbutz has promised to deliver a knockout performance whereas his opponent ‘Bam Bam’ Nunez is confident he can rise to the occasion and upset the odds in the biggest challenge of his career. 

IBO International Super Middleweight Title – 12 Rounds: 
Vincent Feigenbutz: 76.0 kg
Cesar Nunez: 76.2 kg

Feigenbutz-Nunez tops a stacked card in Ludwigshafen that will see the return of 17-year-old boxing sensation Sophie Alisch, Norway’s Katharina Thanderz and Hadi Srour making their Team Sauerland debuts, plus a mouth watering 50/50 clash between German rivals Ahmad Ali and Arman Torosyan.

GBU World Super Welterweight Title – 12 Rounds
Ahmad Ali: 69.7 kg
Arman Torosyan: 69.6 kg

Featherweight – 6 Rounds
Sophie Alisch: 56.8 kg
Vanesa Caballero: 56.7 kg

Lightweight – 8 Rounds
Katharina Thanderz: 61.2 kg
Monica Gentili: 60.6 kg

Super Lightweight – 6 Rounds
Hadi Srour: 69.0 kg
Evgenii Vazem: 69.7 kg

Light Heavyweight – 6 Rounds
Benjamin Gavazi: 82.5 kg
Ondrej Budera: 82.5 kg

Super Middleweight – 6 Rounds
Dimitar Tilev: 77.9 kg
Rene Molik: 76.7 kg

All the action from the Friedrich-Ebert-Halle is available to watch live on Sport1 in Germany and Viasport+ and Viaplay in Norway. Tickets are available online via www.eventim.de or by calling +49 01806-570440.




AMATEUR STANDOUT LEWIS EDMONDSON TURNS PRO WITH QUEENSBERRY PROMOTIONS – DEBUT AT THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL

THE SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT former amateur standout Lewis Edmondson has signed a promotional agreement with Frank Warren and he will make his Queensberry Promotions debut at the Royal Albert Hall on Friday September 27.

The 23-year-old, who is trained by Josh Burnham in Bushey, narrowly missed out on a place on the GB team for the Rio Olympics in 2016, having previously won the youth ABAs, the CYPs and the Three-Nations titles.

His amateur career spanned 60 fights, with 52 wins.

The Southampton man has been preparing to take the professional plunge for over a year now and is thrilled to have a promoter as well as a date for his debut firmly in place.

“Basically I am just very happy and ready to move forward,” said Edmondson. “I believe I am in the best hands I could possibly be in and having a date for my professional debut has given me an extra drive in training.

“It couldn’t be anywhere better for me than the Royal Albert Hall, it really couldn’t and it is unbelievable. Literally every person I speak to about it is excited and hopefully they will make some big noise for me.

“Boxing fans will see that I try to box clever and try not to take too many shots, but I can dig deep and get stuck in when I need to.”

You can follow Lewis’ journey on his social media accounts:

Twitter: @EdmondsonLewie
Instagram: www.instagram.com/lew.edmondson

Daniel Dubois will fight the Ghanaian Ebenezer Tetteh for the vacant Commonwealth heavyweight championship at the Royal Albert Hall on Friday September 27, when Nicola Adams will also defend her WBO world flyweight title or enter into a unification fight with the IBF title also at stake.

Archie Sharp makes a defence of his WBO European super featherweight title on a card that also features middleweight banger Denzel Bentley, heavyweight prospect Jonathan Palata, exciting bantamweight Dennis McCann and lightweight talent Mohammad Bilal Ali, while there are professional debuts for Lewis Edmondson, Ethan James and Sam Noakes.

Tickets for the September 27 bill at the Royal Albert Hall are available to purchase from www.ticketmaster.co.uk and www.royalalberthall.com. Prices £40, £50, £75, £100, £150 Ringside.




Ron Johnson to defend GBO heavyweight title in rematch vs Sergio Ramirez on 10/12 in LA

In 2017 Ronald “The American Dream” Johnson defeated Sergio Ramirez in Las Vegas in the season finale of Knockout Season 3.  The fight aired live on Azteca America. While Johnson won via unanimous decision, Ramirez proved to be a game opponent and gave Johnson a tough fight.

The two warriors will renew acquaintances on October 12th when they collide at the Sports Arena in Pico Rivera.  This time Johnson’s GBO heavyweight title will be at stake when they set foot in the ring. Johnson captured the title on June 15th in Davao City, Philippines when he dropped Saul Farah twice in route to a wide points victory.  This time newly elected Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame trainer Floyd Mayweather Sr. will be in Johnson’s corner. 

The rest of the card promises to be action packed as Adelaida “La Cobra” Ruiz (8-0) will defend her GBO super flyweight continental title versus an opponent to be named in the near future.

Eddie Murphy’s nephew Brandyn Lynch (9-1) will fight for the GBO super welterweight California State title versus TBA in a chief supporting bout so the stars will definitely be in attendance. 

Angel “El Moreno” Rodriguez’s GBO lightweight California State title will also be at stake versus an opponent to be announced in the near future.

The loaded fight card will also feature the pro debut of Nicholas Irizarry who is trained by Milton Lacroix who trains YouTube sensation Logan Paul and many other celebrities. His fight will be set at a catchweight of 142 pounds. 

The fight will be broadcast live onthe new streaming media platform Lookhu and will be available to a worldwide audience on all major outlets. Visit Lookhu.com for more information.

**The initial press conference to announce this fight will take place this Wednesday August 21, 2019 at 3pm at the Beverly Wilshire inside the Champagne room**  All media is invited and all participants and celebrities such as Ray J, and Steven Nia, Chariman of Wardour Studios and W1 Platform – The Hollywood Block Chain, and many others will be available for interviews.

American Dream Presents was founded by Ronald Johnson in 2007. The promotional outfit has put on numerous shows with the likes of Don King, Zab Judah, Fernando Vargas, Joel Cassamayor , Michael Grant and many others. American Dream Presents is also working on a reality show with Ray J and Princess Love and Ronald Johnson called “Fit Two Deliver”. It will be featured on a major network sometime in 2019. ADP President Moses Miller was instrumental in putting this deal together to bring in the powerhouse Wardour Studios to help brand Johnson and set him up for million dollar fights in the near future.   

RED Boxing Promotions is a Filipino-owned promotional company founded by Mr. Rey Cacoi Almirante Rodis. The company started last year and has already done several promotions here in the United States and also in the Philippines and Mexico. Rodis is the third generation of nationally respected boxing promoters tracing back to the 1960s when his grandfather Dr.Antonio Almirante started promoting in the Philippines.

With RED Boxing Promotions leadership having a unique background in professional athletics, we are able to provide experience and knowledge based management and agent services for athletes. We allow our clients to grow professionally and personally while we assist in securing their athletic future. 

RED Boxing promotions being under RED Inc. or RodisEntertainment Digital is also an emerging multifaceted entertainment company engaged in the development of independent film for theatrical, direct to video, DVD and digital release

Lookhu is a streaming entertainment platform that broadcast the highest-quality digital entertainment live, and on-demand, our menu offers niche, celebrity-created content, across multiple devices. Lookhu is app-based, and highly focused on content within specific genres, including Sports, Comedy, Faith, DIY and more. We offer both short and long-form programming for subscribers in the U.S. and around the world. We stand out from the rest by offering our content at multiple price points, becoming the go-to platform for entertainment consumers who want more from their subscription services. For more information please visit http://Lookhu.com. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram

About Wardour Studios™

Wardour Studios™ is a state of the art, next generation, film studio, with a creative and advanced technology foundation, specializing in Hollywood – China co-producing and co-financing. Wardour Studios is a full service Hollywood film and TV production company, with film and television IP, as well as expertise in live action and animated films. Wardour Studios’ team strives and is committed to the creation and development of advanced digital production, visual effects (VFX), virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), motion capture,  artificial intelligence (AI) and Robotics, as well as exploitation of ancillary on a global basis. The team also possess extensive experience in post production, editing, cinematography, workflow management, and various other aspects of digital production and distribution. 

Wardour Studios is rapidly emerging as a leading global entertainment company, with its advanced digital streaming platform, “W1 Platform™ – The Hollywood Blockchain™”, offering global 4K streaming and Content Delivery Network (CDN). 




Hall of Famer Jose Napoles Passes away at 79

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, former welterweight champion and Hall of Famer Jose Napoles has dies at the age of 79.

It is with profound sorrow that we report that Jose Angel ‘Mantequilla’ Napoles died today, and with his the passing, a golden era of the world welterweight championship closes full circle,” the WBC said in a statement. “Typical of the man, who was the bravest, most courageous of fighters, that although he had been affected by various illnesses for some time, he bravely battled on, attending WBC events, always smiling and being greeted by his many friends and fans who admired him as a fighter and as a man. Today that struggle came to an end with his children and grandchildren at his bedside in Mexico City.

“The World Boxing Council is in deep mourning with the departure of one of the very greatest welterweight champions of all time and one of the most beloved people in this sport. A fierce competitor in the ring, he was a kind gentleman outside of it. Rest in peace dear champion.”




Video: UFC 241 Embedded: Vlog Series – Episode 5




BROTHERS TYSON AND TOMMY FURY CLASH OVER YARDE V KOVALEV

THE FURY BROTHERS, Tyson and Tommy, came up with a split decision when asked to assess the prospects of Anthony Yarde dethroning WBO light heavyweight king Sergey Kovalev when the pair collide in Krusher’s home town of Chelyabinsk in Russia on August 24.

Heavyweight ruler Tyson, a devout student of the sport, placed himself firmly in the corner of Yarde, the mandatory challenger who has notched up 18 wins, with 17 of them coming via brutal KO.

The lineal champion believes the time is right for a young, hungry lion to overthrow the long-standing leader of the light heavyweight pride.

“I fancy Anthony Yarde,” stated Tyson, who faces Otto Wallin in Las Vegas on September 14. “I really do fancy Yarde. I think Kovalev is on the slide.

“He has been a good world champion in his time and has done very well, but I think the Andre Ward losses have done him really, although he lost that fight to (Eleider) Alvarez and then came back and beat him.

“I think a young man will always beat an older one and that has always been my motto. I fancy Anthony Yarde to knock him out, not just beat him on points, stop him.

“Because that is what he needs to do in Russia anyway. It will only make his career better when he wins away from home. I’ve been all over and kept winning. If you’re any good, you’ll win, and if you’re not, you’ll lose, simple as.

“Home advantage means nothing to me but it does to a lot of people because they are not natural fighting men. Some people can’t fight off their own soil, but I can because it was bred in me.

“So we are going to see what Anthony Yarde is made of and I think he’ll do it. A good young man should beat a good older one. I believe he’ll do it and I believe he’ll be a good world champion.”

Love Island inhabitant and fellow light heavyweight Tommy suspects Yarde might just be biting off more than he can chew in bidding to knock Kovalev off his world championship perch.

“It is a very, very good fight for Yarde and I think he deserves it,” commented the 2-0 20-year-old. “His time has come and I hope to God he can pull it off because he is from here and we’ve got to support our own.

“As far as the actual fight is concerned, it is a huge task. If he is going to beat him at any time it is going to be now because he is on the downfall and has been for quite a long time. So I am pretty sure he is going to be at his most vulnerable.

“But, listen, big props to him if he can pull it off, but my money would be on Kovalev because he has mixed it at a higher level and fought much better fighters.

“Obviously I hope Yarde can pull it off, but I just don’t see it happening.”

Kovalev v Yarde on August 24 can be seen exclusively live on BT Sport




Presser Notes and Quotes: Emanuel Navarrete & Francisco De Vaca Set to Light Up Banc Of California Stadium Soccer Pitch

LOS ANGELES (Aug. 15, 2019) – The press conference overlooked the new crown jewel of Los Angeles soccer, the year-old Banc of California Stadium, home to Major League Soccer’s LAFC. In two days, the inaugural boxing card will take place at the stadium, headlined by Emanuel Navarrete’s WBO junior featherweight title defense against unbeaten challenger Francisco De Vaca (ESPN, 10 p.m. ET).

In the co-feature, former junior featherweight world champion Jessie Magdaleno will take on former world title challenger Rafael Rivera in a 10-round featherweight bout expected to produce fireworks.

At the Banc of California Stadium’s Founders Club, this is what the fighters had to say.

Emanuel Navarrete

“The reality is that my life has changed a lot in these last eight months. The fact that I have become world champion and that I have won over a wide margin to Isaac Dogboe, who came from beating Jessie Magdaleno, makes me very happy. I feel very satisfied with the results we have achieved for the hard work we have done in recent months.”

“The truth is that it doesn’t matter who is my opponent. I always prepare 100% for each of my fights, and this was no exception. We already did the hard work in the gym, and we are ready for a great fight. If De Vaca comes to fight hard, I am prepared to go even harder. I’m ready to give a great battle to all the fans.”

“I’ve said it several times already: If the other champions of the division don’t want to accept the challenge of unifying titles, I will be moving up to the featherweight division. If everything goes well on Saturday, maybe I will make another fight in the super bantamweight division, but if I don’t get a unification fight, I would go up to 126 pounds.”

Francisco De Vaca

“I’m grateful for this opportunity. I’m ready! I wanted to fight for a world title since I was 5 years old, and now that we have the opportunity, we are going to make our dream come true this Saturday. Come Saturday, there will be a new world champ for Phoenix and Michoacán. I’m coming for that world title.”

On his first 12-round fight

“I feel like I’m debuting all over again. We are ready! I’m going to give everyone a great show. I’ve focused on preparing very well mentally because physically I’m always ready. You will see that come Saturday night.”

Jessie Magdaleno

“{Fans can expect} the same Jessie Magdaleno that always brings a fight to the table, the Magdaleno that comes to fight and puts on a show for the fans. That’s what I’m always aiming for, to please the fans and show everyone what Jessie Magdaleno is capable of.”

“I don’t take none of these guys lightly. Every opponent is difficult. He’s fought great fighters. He’s been in there with great fighters and done a hell of a job. I can’t overlook him because he’s here to put on a great show as well. He throws a lot of punches, and he’s quick. That’s what I am, and that’s what is going to make a hell of a fight for this fight card.”

“I’m hoping once this fight goes through, everything goes well, God willing we come out with the victory, I’m hoping it puts me at the top of the spots in all the rankings, all the titles, so I can come back and be a two-time world champion.”Rafael Rivera

“I’m very grateful and happy for the opportunity that Top Rank has given me. Fighting on the first card here is a big opportunity on a big stage, and I’m going to take advantage of it.”

“Jessie is a good fighter. I’ve seen him fight before. He’s an aggressive fighter, but I’m just here to do my work.” 

“I’ve been fighting against top-level fighters for a long time, so I feel confident and secure that whether it’s against a world champion or a former champion, I’ll put up a good fight.”ESPN and ESPN Deportes, 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT

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

Jessie Magdaleno vs. Rafael Rivera, 10 rounds, featherweight

ESPN+, 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT

Arnold Barboza Jr. vs. Ricky Sismundo, 10 rounds, super lightweight

Janibek Alimkhanuly vs. Stuart McLellan, 10 rounds, Alimkhanuly’s WBC Continental Americas and WBO Global titles

Chris van Heerden vs. Aslanbek Kozaev, 10 rounds, welterweight

Javier Molina vs. Manuel Mendez, 8 rounds, super lightweight

Dmitry Yun vs. Javier Martinez, 6 rounds, lightweight

Brian Mendoza vs. Rosemberg Gomez, 8 rounds, welterweight

Elvis Rodriguez vs. Jesus Gonzales, 6 rounds, super lightweight
 Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Zanfer Promotions and Iron Boy Promotions, tickets priced at $100, $80, $70, $60, $45 and $25 (not including applicable fees) are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 800-745-3000 and in person at the Banc of California Stadium box office.

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

Use the hashtags #NavarreteDeVaca and #MagdalenoRivera to join the conversation on social media.




Amir Imam Signs With Top Rank

(Aug. 15, 2019) — Amir Imam, a former super lightweight world challenger known for his explosive knockouts, has signed a multi-year promotional agreement with Top Rank.

Imam (21-2, 18 KOs) has been out of the ring since March 17, 2018, the evening he challenged Jose Ramirez for the vacant WBC super lightweight world title. He lost via unanimous decision in a brutal toe-to-toe battle to Ramirez, who is currently the unified WBC/WBO 140-pound world champion.

Imam will campaign at either super lightweight or welterweight, and he recently enlisted the services of South Florida-based manager Peter Kahn. He is expected to make his long-awaited ring return later this year.

“I am grateful to have joined the best promotional company in boxing. I have learned a lot from my past fights and have made positive changes that will allow me to succeed as I move forward to my goal of becoming a world champion,” Imam said. “I’m eager to get back into the ring before the end of the year and showcase my skills as part of the Top Rank team. I’m looking forward to seeing what the future holds for me.”

“Amir Imam is a naturally gifted fighter who can best be defined as potential unrealized to this point in his career,” Kahn said. “He has the physical and mental tools to be a world champion. He’s a perfect fit for Top Rank. Whether Amir continues to campaign at super lightweight or welterweight remains to be seen, but the fans will see a rejuvenated, well-prepared Amir who is on a mission to be a world champion.”

Imam, from Albany, New York, knocked out 12 out of his first 13 opponents in the paid ranks, and won an eight-round unanimous decision in 2014 over Yordenis Ugas, who is currently one of the welterweight division’s top contenders. He scored highlight-reel knockouts over Jason Robinson and Fidel Maldonado before being stopped in shocking fashion by Adrian Granados in 2015. Imam rebounded with three consecutive knockout wins before locking horns with Ramirez in a memorable clash at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden.




DAVIES ENTERTAINMENT OFFICIALLY LAUNCHES SPORTS MANAGEMENT DIVISION WITH PROFESSIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING AT THE FRANK ERWIN CENTER!

Austin, Texas – Professional championship boxing returns to the Frank Erwin Center on August 24 with Capital City Fight Night. In association with Underwood promotions, Davies Entertainment is helping to continue the tradition of quality boxing at the Erwin Center, Showcasing four prize fighters fighting under the Davies Entertainment banner.

With his new management team (Davies Entertainment), local Austin knockout artist James Kirkland (32-2, 28KO) returns from a 4-year absence following a defeat to pound-for-pound fighter Saul”Canelo” Alvarez. Kirkland has been one of boxing’s most explosive fighters with knockout wins over Brian Vera, Joel Julio, Alfredo Angulo, and Glen Tapia. This fight marks the 18th anniversary of his pro debut in 2001. Kirkland looks to make one final run toward a championship taking on upset-minded Missouri brawler Colby Courter (13-14, 10KO) in a six round Middleweight bout.

Capital City Fight Night will feature three title bouts headlined by San Antonio’s Eddie Ortiz (8-0-2, 4KO) battling Killeen’s rough and rugged brawler Jas Phipps (10-6-2, 5KO) in an eight round Middleweight contest for the World Boxing Council USNBC Silver Middleweight Title. Ortiz comes in fresh off a third round knockout over Jesus Gomez Rodriguez in April while Phipps comes in on a 5-fight winning streak that last saw him beat former world title challenger Brian Vera.
In the Co-main event, the American Boxing Federation USA Welterweight title is up for grabs when San Antonio’s Daniel Baiz (13-1, 5KO) takes on Waco’s upset specialist Marquis Hawthorne (7-11, 1KO) in an eight round welterweight contest. Hawthorne has wins over four undefeated fighters while fighting some of the nation’s up and coming talent. Baiz comes in looking to build on his 6-fight winning streak and attempt to pick up his first title in his 5-year career.
Also featured on the card, San Antonio’s Benjamin Whitaker (11-3, 2KO), a crafty ring technician who faces southpaw Raymond Guzman (3-2, 2KO). Whitaker, along with James Kirkland, Daniel Baiz, and Eddie Ortiz are all represented by the sports management division of Davies Entertainment.

The event will also showcase Davies Entertainment Music artists Vi$ion and Bankreaux performing during ring introductions. Additional Information is available at www.daviesentertainment.com

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About the Frank Erwin Center:
Located in the heart of downtown Austin, the Frank Erwin Center has served Central Texans with the best in live entertainment, including concerts, theatrical performances, family shows and sporting events since 1977. The multi-purpose facility, which celebrated its 40th Anniversary in November 2017, is owned and operated by The University of Texas at Austin and serves as the home court for the Texas Longhorns Men’s and Women’s basketball teams.