Lineal Heavyweight champion Tyson Fury will take on Otto Wallin on September 14th in Las Vegas, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com

The fight, which will headline a Top Rank Boxing on ESPN+ card, will take place at an MGM property in Las Vegas, meaning the MGM Grand Garden Arena, T-Mobile Arena or Mandalay Bay Events Center, Moretti said.

“The paperwork is being drafted, but there is an agreement,” Moretti said.

“I think it’s great Tyson Fury wants to get right back in the ring and stay active,” Moretti said. “It’s something uncommon nowadays.”

2 August 2019 – Manila, Philippines: The largest global sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship™ (ONE), returned to a packed Mall of Asia Arena in Manila for the biggest martial arts event in Philippine history with ONE: DAWN OF HEROES. Once again, the finest martial arts talent in the world came out to showcase their incredible skills. In the main event, Martin Nguyen retained his ONE Featherweight World Championship with a technical knockout victory over Koyomi Matsushima. In the co-main event, Rodtang Jitmuangnon captured the ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Championship with a unanimous decision victory over Jonathan Haggerty.

Visit the official ONE: DAWN OF HEROES photo gallery by clicking: https://bit.ly/onephotos

In the main event, Martin “The Situ-Asian” Nguyen of Australia and Vietnam continued his reign over the featherweight division with a second-round technical knockout victory over Japanese challenger Koyomi “Moushigo” Matsushima to retain the ONE Featherweight World Championship. Matsushima put the pressure on Nguyen early in the opening round with his solid ground game. The champion was able to make the necessary adjustments in the second round, however, as he picked apart a tired Matsushima with a barrage of strikes to get the stoppage win and successfully defend his title for a third time. 

In the co-main event, Rodtang “The Iron Man” Jitmuangnon of Thailand dethroned English striking sensation Jonathan “The General” Haggerty via unanimous decision to become the new ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion. Haggerty utilized his length in the early going, using front kicks to keep the challenger at bay. Rodtang picked up steam in the succeeding rounds and managed to drop Haggerty twice. After five rounds of explosive action, it was Rodtang who walked away with the victory and the prestigious ONE World Title. 

In the ONE Lightweight World Grand Prix Semi-finals, Eddie “The Underground King” Alvarez of the United States recorded his first victory under the ONE banner with a rear naked choke of former ONE Lightweight World Champion Eduard “Landslide” Folayang of the Philippines. Folayang attacked Alvarez with a blitz of strikes to open the contest and a low kick brought “The Underground King” to the mat. Alvarez, however, was able to sweep Folayang to wind up in mount. From there, Alvarez took Folayang’s back, fished for the submission, and forced the tap.

In the ONE Flyweight World Grand Prix Semi-finals, Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson of the United States outlasted Tatsumitsu “The Sweeper” Wada of Japan to take home a three-round unanimous decision. After a brief exchange on the feet in the first round, Wada was able to take Johnson to the mat and secure his back. Johnson however defended very well. Action continued in the second round with Johnson dominating the grappling exchanges. In the third and final round, Johnson appeared to have Wada figured out and took control of the bout to cruise to a unanimous decision victory.

ESPN+ (5 p.m. ET)

Michael Conlan 125.6 lbs vs. Diego Alberto Ruiz 124.8 lbs
(Conlan’s WBO Intercontinental and vacant WBA Intercontinental Featherweight titles – 10 Rounds)

  Chris Jenkins 146.4 lbs vs. Paddy Gallagher 147 lbs
(Jenkins’ British and vacant Commonwealth Welterweight titles  – 12 Rounds)

ESPN+ (3 p.m. ET)

           Luis Arias 161.5 lbs vs. Luke Keeler 161.1 lbs
(Middleweight – 10 Rounds)

Steve Collins Jr. 167.1 lbs vs. Padraig McCrory 167.1 lbs
(Super Middleweight – 8 Rounds)

    Sean McComb 142 lbs vs. Renald Garrido 143 lbs
(Super Lightweight – 8 Rounds)About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the multi-sport, direct-to-consumer video service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. It reached 2 million subscribers in less than a year and offers fans thousands of live events, on-demand content and original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, along with premium editorial content.

Programming on ESPN+ includes hundreds of MLB and NHL games, exclusive UFC, Top Rank boxing and PFL fights and events, top domestic and international soccer (Serie A, MLS, FA Cup, UEFA Nations League, EFL Championship, EFL Carabao Cup, Eredivisie, and more), thousands of college sports events (including football, basketball and other sports), Grand Slam tennis, international and domestic rugby and cricket, new and exclusive 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) and can cancel at any time.

ESPN+ is available as an integrated part of the ESPN App (on mobile and connected devices) and ESPN.com. They are the industry-leading all-in-one digital sports platform, delivering a rich, personalized experience to tens of millions of fans every month.

Following a relationship that has spanned the whole professional career of Billy Joe Saunders, that has included World Titles in two weight divisions, Hall of Fame Promoter Frank Warren and Saunders have agreed terms for an amicable release from his promotional contract.

Frank Warren enjoyed a successful partnership with Billy Joe in which he guided him in an unblemished run of British, Commonwealth, European and World Championships at both Middle and Super Middleweight. The partnership saw many big fights at different career levels, which has included wins over John Ryder, Chris Eubank Jr, Andy Lee and David Lemieux.

Whilst holding the WBO World Middleweight Championship, Billy Joe signed contracts to unify the World Middleweight titles against Gennady Golovkin, which did not ultimately take place due to Golovkin not signing and returning the contract but pursuing the Canelo Alvarez fight.

An outstanding career best win against Lemieux in Canada where Saunders announced himself to North American Boxing fans, unfortunately was followed by problems outside of the ring, a period of injury and having to vacate his World Title, losing the momentum built after his win.

Following dialogue between Frank Warren, Billy Joe and his management company MTK over recent weeks, it was mutually agreed that after struggling to regain this collective momentum, and with certain fights not immediately available within the partnership, that it is in the interests of both parties to pursue their respective goals separately.

Frank Warren and all the team at Queensberry Promotions have enjoyed a great personal relationship with Billy Joe over the years and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.

We are sure that Billy Joe can continue to demonstrate his always unquestionable talent and we look forward to seeing him achieve the remaining goals he has left in his career.

Frank Warren said “I’ve really enjoyed working with Billy Joe through his whole professional career and guiding him to become British, Commonwealth, European and a two Weight World Champion.

I’m personally very fond of Billy Joe and I wish him every success in the remainder of his career.”

Billy Joe Saunders said, “First of all, I just want to say a massive thank you to Frank for everything he has done for my career over the past decade.

Frank signed me after the 2008 Olympics and was with me every step of the way as I won the British, Commonwealth and European titles before becoming a world champion in two divisions.

It feels a little bittersweet and I’ll always be appreciative for everything Frank has done for me. We’ll stay close.”

Dmitriy Salita of Salita Promotions is happy to announce the signing of Russian middleweight Timur Kerefov to a promotional contract.

Kerefov (6-0, 4 KOs) was a heavily decorated amateur champion who won several important tournaments and 298 of his 310 unpaid fights. Designated a Master of Sports in Russia, he fought at the elite level internationally on the Russian National team for nearly a decade.

Kerefov, from Shalushka, Russia, has excellent hand and foot speed and the fast-twitch reflexes that only come from a lifetime in the sport. He punches with authority, especially with the left hand, to the head and body.

“I am excited about signing with Salita Promotions and taking my career to the next level,” said Kerefov. “I look forward to showing that I am the best 160 lb. fighter in the world.”

Promoter Salita, who has amassed a strong stable of Russian standouts in the last few years including, says Kerefov is going to fit right in. The plan, according to Salita, is to move the Russian southpaw quickly up the ranks.

“Timur is an extremely talented and skilled fighter,” said Salita. “In the near future, he will make a name for himself on the world stage and in the middleweight division.”

About Salita Promotions

Salita Promotions was founded in 2010 by Dmitriy Salita, a professional boxer and world-title challenger who saw the need for a promotional entity to feature boxing’s best young prospects and established contenders in North America and around the world. Viewers watching fighters on worldwide television networks including Showtime, HBO, ESPN, Spike TV, Universal Sports Network, UFC Fight Pass, DAZN, ESPN+ and MSG have enjoyed Salita Promotions fight action in recent years. We pride ourselves on offering our fighters opportunities inside and outside the ring. Salita Promotions looks forward to continuing to grow and serve the needs of fight fans around the globe.

Lincoln, RI (Aug. 2, 2019) — Marqus Bates is abiding by the philosophy that you no longer have to beat the best in order to be the best, you should probably train with the best, too.

The red-hot welterweight from Taunton, MA, aims for his sixth consecutive win next Friday on Aug. 9 at Twin River Casino Hotel when he faces 33-fight vet Evincii Dixon (8-23-2, 3 KOs) of Lancaster, PA, in one of nine bouts on CES Boxing’s stacked fight card at the Event Center.

To prepare for what he expects to be his toughest challenge, Bates (7-2, 5 KOs) has challenged himself during this training camp with some of the best sparring in New England, trading blows with regional standouts Irvin Gonzalez and Toka Kahn along with North Carolina’s Damon Towns, all of whom are preparing for upcoming bouts. The 26-2 Kahn, a Providence, RI, actually faces Gonzalez Aug. 29 in Connecticut. The experience has been beneficial for Bates, who continues to look for ways to improve despite his recent hot streak.

“I felt like it was definitely time to step it up,” Bates said. “When you’re sparring with someone like Toka, you have no choice but to get better. His hand speed, power and smarts in the ring is amazing, so if you think you’re catching on to him, think again, because then he’s doing something else.

“It’s a constant learning experience. Irvin, he’s strong, smart and fast, and Damon has incredible hand speed. To be able to get in the ring with these three was a blessing. It’s not something I’ve been used to. They definitely keep me on my toes and pushed me to get better.”

Tickets for Aug. 9 begin at $47 and are available online at www.cesboxing.com or www.showclix.com. Doors open at 6 p.m. ET and the first fight begins at 7.

Bates expects his hard work to pay off next Friday when he faces the well-traveled Dixon, arguably his toughest opponent to date despite Dixon’s record. Bates doesn’t pay attention to the numbers, noting that Dixon has consistently faced the best the sport has to offer between 140 and 147 pounds and is coming off a big upset win over previously-unbeaten Philadelphia prospect Marcel Rivers in June, a fight in which Dixon sent his opponent to the canvas three times in the second round before the referee waved it off.

Like Bates, Dixon is recharged heading into this fight, reuniting with his original coach Anthony Key, who brought Dixon to New England in 2013 to face CES stablemates Nick DeLomba, Christian Lao and Jimmy Williams in consecutive bouts.

“His record doesn’t matched how good he is,” Bates said of Dixon. “From what little tape I’ve watched of him, he’s a great fighter. This is something I need. I need to be able to step up and take this to the next level. I take nothing from him, and I don’t underestimate him. I’m coming ready to fight.”

“I’m an animal now,” Dixon said.

The same could be said for Bates, who has turned a corner since his disputed loss to Travis Demko, winning his next five bouts, including three by knockout. He stopped Connecticut’s Jair Ramos in February and then handed Wilfredo Pagan of Massachusetts his first career loss via knockout. The sudden surge in power, he said, stems from his improved patience, which he lacked in earlier bouts.

“I don’t go in there looking for the knockout. I just go in there and fight and be patient and work with whatever I’m given,” he said. “If it comes, I’ll take it. Everything I do for preparation is done in the gym. Then I let it all go in the ring on fight night.”

For a fighter who one day hopes to headline at Twin River, Friday’s showdown with Dixon is the next logical step for Bates as he continues to make up for his lost time after turning pro at the age of 30. Having laid the foundation with a strong camp, the rest is in his hands come fight night.

“I still have a lot to show, a lot to learn, a lot to prove. I haven’t even scratched the surface yet,” he said. “There’s so much I’m still learning, so many tricks. I’m getting faster, stronger and smarter. This is just the beginning.”

Next Friday’s main event features reigning NBA Heavyweight World Champion Juiseppe Cusumano (18-2, 16 KOs) of Sicily in the quest to add another belt to his collection when he battles “The Gentle Giant” Steve Vukosa (11-1, 4 KOs) of nearby Quincy, MA, in an eight-round bout for the vacant WBC USNBC crown.

In the co-main event, WBC Youth World Lightweight Champion Jamaine Ortiz (11-0, 6 KOs) of Worcester, MA, puts his unbeaten record on the line in an eight-round showdown against French challenger Romain Couture (8-1-1, 4 KOs), who makes his United States debut.

The undercard features six undefeated prospects looking to keep their perfect records, including Pawtucket, RI, featherweight Ricky De Los Santos (8-0, 1 KO), who battles Reading, PA, vet and Dominican standout Yeuri Andujar (4-1, 3 KOs) in a six-round featured bout. Lightweight Michael Valentin (6-0, 1 KO) of Providence, RI, also steps up in his toughest test to date against Philadelphia’s Lonnie Jackson Jr. (4-1-1, 1 KO), in a six-round special attraction.

Also facing a tall order on the undercard, Big Six Boxing Academy super welterweights Victor Reynoso (4-0, 4 KOs) and Lamont Powell (4-0, 1 KO), both of Providence, put their identical records on the line in four-round featured bouts. Reynoso battles Canadian Kenny Chery (2-2, 1 KO), whom Powell faced in February, while Powell looks to build off his impressive win in April in a major step-up against Reading’s Ricardo Garcia (14-7-1, 9 KOs), a Dominican Republic native and veteran of 22 professional fights.

A potential showstopper between unbeaten super lightweight prospects Elijah Peixoto (1-0, 1 KO) of East Providence, RI, and 26-year-old “Slick Hands” Carlos Otero (2-0) of Tampa highlights the preliminary card. Peixoto debuted earlier this year in grand fashion with a knockout win over Carlos Galindo. Otero, a decorated amateur much like Peixoto, returns from a two-year layoff. Worcester, MA, welterweight Nicholas Briggs (4-0, 3 KOs), also unbeaten, returns to face Macon, GA, native Bryan Goldsby (5-13), a veteran of 18 professional bouts.

Visit www.cesboxing.com, www.twitter.com/cesboxing or www.facebook.com/cesboxing for more information, and follow CES Boxing on Instagram at @CESBOXING.

LOS ANGELES – Today, FOX Sports announces WBC Heavyweight ChampionDeontay Wilder joins former undisputed, three-time heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis and blow-by-blow announcer Kenny Albert to call FOX PBC FIGHT NIGHT: ADAM KOWNACKI VS. CHRIS ARREOLA on Saturday, Aug. 3 (8:00 PM ET) live on FOX and streaming on the FOX Sports app. Veteran combat sports journalist Heidi Androl interviews fighters, while International Boxing Hall of Famers Jimmy Lennon Jr. and Larry Hazzard Sr. join the show as ring announcer and FOX Sports PBC rules expert / unofficial scorer, respectively. On FOX Deportes, blow-by-blow announcer Jessi Losada is joined analyst Jaime Motta to call the bouts in Spanish.

Leading up to the fights, undefeated former super middleweight champion David Benavidez joins International Boxing Hall of Famer Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini and host Chris Myers live in FOX Sports’ Los Angeles studios on Thursday, Aug. 1 (4:30 PM ET) for the one-hour FOX PBC PRESS CONFERENCE on FS1, FOX Deportes and the FOX Sports app. Androl presides over the press conference. The same desk crew works the FOX PBC WEIGH-IN SHOW on Friday, Aug. 2 (1:00 PM ET) on FS2 and the FOX Sports app. Lennon Jr. hosts the weigh-ins on stage and Androl interviews fighters onsite.

Saturday’s fight action begins at 8:00 PM ET on FOX and the FOX Sports app and is headlined by undefeated heavyweight Polish star Adam Kownacki (19-0, 15 KOs) taking on veteran former title challenger Chris Arreola (38-5-1, 33 KOs). Plus, unbeaten Interim WBA Light Heavyweight Champion “Sir” Marcus Browne (23-0, 16 KOs) battles former world champion Jean Pascal (33-6-1, 20 KOs) in a 12-round Interim WBA World Light Heavyweight title bout. Super welterweights Curtis Stevens (30-6, 22 KOs) and Wale Omotoso (27-4, 21 KOs) open the show with a 10-round clash.

The evening wraps up with the FOX PBC POSTFIGHT SHOW: ADAM KOWNACKI VS. CHRIS ARREOLA at 10:00 PM ET on FS1 and the FOX Sports app, as Albert, Lewis, Wilder and Androl recap the fights and interview winners.

Leading up to the fights, PBC fighters offer unique, behind-the-scenes clips on the FOX PBC social pages. Follow @PBConFOX on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for all updates throughout the #PBConFOX fights Saturday.Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or athttp://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 FOX Sports Press Pass.
FOX SPORTS PBC PROGRAMMING SCHEDULE

*All programs available on FOX Sports App and FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 **Delayed
 –FOX SPORTS– About FOX Sports 
FOX Sports is the umbrella entity representing FOX Corporation’s wide array of multi-platform US-based sports assets. Built with brands capable of reaching more than 100 million viewers in a single weekend, the business has ownership and interests in linear television networks, digital and mobile programming, broadband platforms, multiple web sites, joint-venture businesses and several licensing relationships. FOX Sports includes the sports arm of the FOX Network as well as FS1, FS2, FOX Soccer Plus and FOX Deportes. FOX Sports’ digital properties include http://FOXSports.com and the FOX Sports App, which provides live streaming video of FOX Sports content, instant scores, stats and alerts to iOS and Android devices. Additionally, FOX Sports and social broadcasting platform Caffeine jointly own Caffeine Studios, which creates exclusive eSports, sports and live entertainment content. Also included in FOX Sports’ portfolio are FOX’s interests in joint-venture businesses Big Ten Network and BTN 2Go, as well as a licensing agreement that established the FOX Sports Radio Network.

New York, NY (August 2, 2019) – On Thursday night, DiBella Entertainment hosted a special edition of its Broadway Boxing Summer Series, titled “Night of the Contenders”, from the Monroeville Convention Center, in Monroeville, PA. The event was promoted by DiBella Entertainment, in association with Pinnacle Fighting Championships, and presented by Nissan of Queens, Azad Watches, OPTYX, Christos Steak House and Gagliardi Insurance. The action was streamed live on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports.

Returning to the ring for the first time since competing for “The Contender”, Ievgen “The Ukrainian Lion” Khytrov, 167.6 lbs., of Brooklyn, NY, moved up to the super middleweight division to face Gabriel Pham, 167.6 lbs., of Atlantic City, NJ, in the main event. Khytrov turned in a tremendous performance, pressuring his way inside the tall 6’3″ frame of southpaw Pham for the entire fight. Continually backing Pham against the ropes, Khytrov pounded the body with stinging jabs and followed up with hooks to the head. Pham attempted to counter off of the ropes, but an undeterred Khytrov maintained control and focused on cutting off the ring. Needing to offset Khytrov’s aggression to find any success, Pham increased his work rate near the midway point, attempting uppercuts as the Ukrainian pressed forward, but was never able to shift the momentum. By round six, Pham was growing fatigued and Khytrov’s left hook to the body resulted in three knockdowns. The referee waved the contest over following the third trip to the canvas at the 2:38 mark. With the win, Khytrov, now 19-2 (16 KOs), seized the WBC USNBC super middleweight title. Pham’s record is now 11-2 (5 KOs). The heavy-handed Khytrov, co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Fight Promotions Inc., defeated both Morgan Fitch and Malcolm McAllister by knockout on “The Contender” series last year.

Also fighting in his post-Contender ring return, Eric “The Baby Faced Assassin” Walker, 154.2 lbs., of Plaquemine, LA, took on Jose Antonio “Bachata” Abreu, 155 lbs., of La Romana, Dominican Republic, in the co-featured bout. Walker and Abreu began the contest trading their jab-straight right combinations. Whenever he found an opening, Walker launched powerful overhand rights as well. In the third frame, Walker set up his looping right hands over the top with stiff jabs downstairs. Now in full control, Walker let Abreu walk to him with an attack while he countered off of the ropes with accuracy. In the fourth, Abreu injured his right hand during an exchange and, after issuing an eight-count, the referee stopped the bout due to the Dominican being unable to continue. The time of the stoppage was 1:28. The TKO victory upped Walker’s record to 19-2 (9 KOs), with Abreu dropping to 14-6 (8 KOs). While on “The Contender”, Walker defeated John Jackson and John Thompson before losing a hard-fought majority decision over five rounds to tournament champion Brandon Adams on May 22, 2018, in Los Angeles.

Ukrainian welterweight contender Ivan “The Volk” Golub, 148.6 lbs., of Brooklyn, NY, used pressure and a varied arsenal of punches to dominate a game Joaquim Carneiro, 150.4 lbs., of Sao Paulo, Brazil. Co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Fight Promotions Inc., the southpaw Golub stalked Carneiro and consistently landed in combination, with jabs, straight lefts and right hooks to the midsection throughout the contest. To his credit, Carneiro fought back as best he could, attempting to work the body and trade shots with Golub, but never landed anything significant. In the fourth, Carneiro tried to counter Golub’s offense with haymaker overhand lefts. In round five, Golub shifted his focus downstairs and a sneaky right jab sent Carneiro to his knees for a knockdown. Once he arose, a few more lefts and rights to the ribs convinced the referee to halt the bout at the 1:52 mark. The victory improved Golub’s ledger to 17-1 (13 KOs), while Carneiro left the ring at 25-11 (23 KOs). In April, Golub captured the WBC USNBC welterweight title with a 10-round unanimous decision against Manuel Reyes. As an amateur, Golub accumulated a 270-32 record, while becoming a five-time Ukrainian National champion, and won bronze medals at the Junior World Championships in 2006 and at the World Championships in 2009. He also participated in the World Series of Boxing, winning all five of his bouts.

In his DiBella Entertainment debut, 20-year-old Puerto Rican junior welterweight prospect Victor Padilla, 139.4 lbs., ended a near two-year ring absence in devastating fashion, stopping Benjamin Borteye, 140.4 lbs., of Silver Spring, MD, inside the opening frame. The southpaw Padilla quickly stunned Borteye with his first jab-straight left then patiently cut off the ring until he had his foe trapped near a corner. Padilla then threw a right jab that decked Borteye. A follow-up barrage to the head and body forced a stoppage at the 1:12 mark to up Padilla’s record to 5-0 (5 KOs), while Borteye dropped to 4-8 (4 KOs). Now living in Berlin, NJ, Padilla was born in Vieques, Puerto Rico, and had a stellar amateur career, compiling a 90-7 record while becoming a three-time National champion. He is trained by Raul “Chino” Rivas and fights out of the same camp as IBF Super Featherweight World Champion Tevin Farmer.

Heavyweight prospect Mike Balogun, 233.6 lbs., of Upper Marlboro, MD, overcame a first-round knockdown in the toughest test of his career against Ed Fountain, 240.6 lbs., of St. Louis, MO, to earn a unanimous decision victory. After recovering from his trip to the canvas via a Fountain right hand, the southpaw Balogun found the proper distance to dictate the action with his jab and ring generalship. Over the second half, Balogun began to throw jabs to the body and come back upstairs with straight lefts to keep Fountain from closing the gap, in what was his first scheduled eight-rounder. Scorecards read 78-73, and 77-74 twice, all for Balogun. Now 14-0 (10 KOs), Balogun is a former college football standout who started for the Oklahoma Sooners before playing in the NFL for three years. Fountain’s record dipped to 12-6 (5KOs).

Local fan favorite Bill Hutchinson, 134.4 lbs., of Pittsburgh, PA, improved to 17-4-2 (6 KOs) with a third-round stoppage of Charlie Serrano, 127.6 lbs., of Tampa, FL, who fell to 16-5-2 (5 KOs).

Heavyweight Bob Weisen, 195.8 lbs., of Pittsburgh, PA, made his pro debut a successful one, winning a four-round split decision against Dennis Vance (1-1, 1 KO), 235 lbs., of Detroit, MI. Scorecards read 40-36 each way, and 39-37 Weisen.

LOS ANGELES, CA. (Aug. 1, 2019): Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy, has issued the following statement in response to the International Boxing Federation’s decision to strip middleweight world champion, Canelo Alvarez.

“We are extremely disappointed at the IBF for forcing the world’s best fighter to relinquish his world title. We have been in serious negotiations with Sergiy Derevyanchenko’s promoter. We offered his team an unprecedented amount of money for a fighter of his limited stature and limited popularity, but the truth is that I’m now certain they never had any intention of making a deal. But instead they wanted to force us to relinquish Canelo’s belt. This is an insult to boxing and more importantly an insult to the boxing fans of the world. This decision validates already existing concerns about the credibility of the IBF championship. Canelo inherited a mandatory challenger by defeating Daniel Jacobs, the man who beat Derevyanchenko, so to strip him of his title without giving him enough time to make the best fight possible is truly what is wrong with boxing, and I plan to aggressively consider all legal actions possible.”

LAS VEGAS (August 1, 2019) – All of the fighters made weight today for tomorrow night’s RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS® card, headlined by World Boxing Council (WBC) female World super featherweight champion Eva Wahlstrom defending title against challenger Ronica “Queen” Jeffrey, at the famed Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas.

Roy Jones Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions is offering free admission for this show, which will be streamed live on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT. Fans may register online to receive their free tickets, minimum of eight per person, by going to: https://www.unlvtickets.com/eventInfo/spe/739/roy-jones-jr-boxing/.

RJJ Boxing co-founder and living legend Roy Jones, Jr. (center in picture below, photo by Manny “Mitts” Merullo) will host a meet-and-great for VIP ticket holders prior to the fights.

All fighter’ weights are below:

MAIN EVENT – WBC WORLD FEMALE SUPER FEATHRWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP (10)*
(R) Eva Wahlstrom (22-1-1, 3 KOs), Champion, Helsinki, Finland 128.8 lbs.
(L) Ronica “Queen” Jeffrey (17-1, 1 KO), Challenger, Brooklyn, NY 127.2 lbs,

CO-FEATURE – MIDDLEWEIGHTS (6)*
John “The Phenom” Vera (18-1, 11 KOs), Fort Worth, TX 157 lbs.
Ravshan Hudaynazarov (17-1, 13 KOs), Las Vegas, NV by way of Uzbekistan 156.2 lbs.

SUPER BANTAMWEIGHTS (6)*
Jamie “The Miracle” Mitchell (5-0-1, 3 KOs), Las Vegas, NV 120.8 lbs.
Britain Hart (3-3-1, 2 KOs), Roanoke, VA 118 lbs.

SUPER FLYWEIGHTS (4)*
Trevor Covington (pro debut), Henderson, NV 112.4 lbs.
Ming Freedom (1-3-1), Los Angeles, CA 113.4 lbs.

(all fights and fighters are subject to change)

*demotes streaming on UFC FIGHT PASS
.

INFORMATION:
Websites: http://www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com, www.ufc.tv/page/fightpass, www.thomasandmack.com
Twitter: @RoyjonesJRfa, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @UFCFightPass, @KeithVeltre, @ThomasAndMack, @wahlstrom_eva
Instagram: @RoyJonesJRboxing, @artofmusiclv, @rivalboxinggear, @UFCFightPass, @KeithVeltre, @ThomasandMack, @eva_wahlstrom
Facebook: /KeithVeltre, /UFCFightPass, /Thomas&MackCenter, /EvaWahlstrom

BROOKLYN (August 1, 2019) – Unbeaten Polish star Adam Kownacki and former title challenger Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola went face to face at Thursday’s final press conference, two days before they meet in a heavyweight showdown headlining FOX PBC Fight Night this Saturday live on FOX and FOX Deportes from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

The press conference also featured fighters competing in action beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT as unbeaten WBA interim light heavyweight champion “Sir” Marcus Browne and former champion Jean Pascal, plus Brooklyn’s Curtis Stevens and Wale Omotoso, all faced-off ahead of their respective matchups Saturday night.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.

The fighters were joined on stage by former lineal heavyweight champion Michael Spinks. Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from the Brooklyn Marriott:

ADAM KOWNACKI

“This is one of my dreams coming true. Since the amateurs I’ve wanted to fight at Barclays Center and on Saturday night I’m the main event. I couldn’t be more excited

“I’ve been pushed hard in training camp and I can’t wait to show everyone all of my work on Saturday. The key is going to be jabbing in and throwing my punches in bunches like I always do.

“This is a new experience for me being the headliner, but in the ring it doesn’t matter. It’s just two guys fighting each other. We both love to fight. I can’t wait to get it over with and punch him in the face.

“Chris Arreola is a warrior. You always know that when Chris fights, it’s a good fight. But I’m going to test how much he has left in the gas tank. Chris has been in there with three champions and when I take care of business on Saturday, I’ll be one step closer to being world champion.

“It’s truly a great feeling to have all this support from my fans here. These fans are trusting me to bring the title back to Brooklyn and to Poland.

“Barclays Center has been my boxing home. I can’t wait to get in the ring. This is a tough fight and I have to make sure I send the fans home happy.

“This definitely has Fight of the Year written all over it. Neither of us are afraid to let our hands go and no matter what happens, the fans are going to be winners on Saturday.”

CHRIS ARREOLA

“I understand that Adam is the favorite because he’s undefeated and fighting in his hometown. At the end of the day, none of that matters to me. I’m going to give it my all for this fight.

“I’m carefree right now. I have no stress. If I lose, I’m okay with walking way. But I’m not here to do that. I’m here to win.

“I know I have a tough opponent in front of me. I have my work cut out for me. But ‘The Nightmare’ is going to keep going.

“I went to Joe Goossen as my trainer because I knew it was time to make a change. I have to make this last run count. This is the best team I could imagine. Joe makes you work on your mistakes. I believe the winner of this fight is whoever takes advantage of the first mistake.

“I respect everybody outside of the ring, but once we’re in the ring, I’m not friends with anyone. We’ll shake hands after the final bell, but I’m here to put on a show. It’s lights, camera, action and time to shine.

“He’s a volume puncher. He just keeps coming and he’s smiling at you the whole time. At the end of the day, I’m going to put a frown on his face Saturday.

“My prediction is that the fans are going to get their money’s worth. You better record this one, because you’re going to watch it again and again. I’m going to come out with my hand raised.”

MARCUS BROWNE

“Being in training in Colorado really lets me get attuned to my game plan. It’s just waking up every day and working with that same mentality where I’m focused on nothing but the fight. It’s all about going in there and getting that win.

“I’m going to punish Pascal on Saturday. If the knockout is how he wants to go, I’ll be ready. I promise I’m going to beat him for 12 rounds.

“It feels great to be here defending my belt. I’ll be in a better position after this fight. I’m going to make a statement in this fight and put Pascal in his place.

“Pascal is a guy who doesn’t come to lay down, he comes to beat you. That’s what the sport is about. You have to fight guys of that stature if you’re not fighting champions.

“A win on Saturday puts me in contention to fight for a world title next. That’s my focus, but before that, it’s about Jean Pascal and taking care of him the right way.

“This is a great card for New York with me, Adam and Curtis all representing our home city. It’s great for us to be in this position together.”

JEAN PASCAL

“Marcus has been saying that he’s going to go in there and try to knock me out, but I’m no amateur. I know what his game plan is going to be. He’s going to run around the ring and try to hold. We all know he’s the best at running like a chicken.

“When I was Marcus’ age, I was already a world champion. He was watching me on TV when he was at the Olympics.

“How is he going to knock me out? I think without the cut that Badou Jack had in their fight, he would have knocked Marcus out.

“I’m ready. I’m a solid fighter. I’ve fought the best, so I don’t think Marcus will be able to knock me out.

“I’m too good all-around for Marcus. This is my chance to show that I still have a lot of gas left in the tank. I’m still good enough to fight at the very top level of the sport.”

CURTIS STEVENS

“This is my first time fighting at Barclays Center, and I’m going to give the fans a taste of what they’ve been missing.

“I decided that I’d go down to 154-pounds because my camp has a lot of the top 160-pound fighters so we were getting in each other’s way. There are a lot of opportunities for me in this weight class as well.

“No matter what has happened in my career, I have always come back. I’m mentally always ready to bounce back. I’ve had layoffs in my career, but I know that I’m going to get where I need to be.

“Nobody calls me out because they know I can punch. I’m too risky for the top fighters because they know there’s a chance they get knocked out.

“It’s incredible to have this opportunity to fight at Barclays Center for the first time. It’s going to be a good time for me and all the fans.”

WALE OMOTOSO

“I’m not worried about Stevens being at a new weight. I don’t think it’s going to affect him that much. On Saturday, we’re both going to do our best to get the win.

“He’s a big puncher who brawls. But I’m a big puncher too. He’s been there and fought everybody, but I’m going to show the world what I can do.

“I think this is going to be a toe-to-toe fight. There might be some feeling out, but as the fight goes on and we get into the middle rounds, it’s going to be fought in the middle of the ring.

“I’ve trained well for this fight and had sparring with lots of different fighters. The different styles that I’ve seen throughout camp will have me prepared for anything Stevens shows me on Saturday night.”

# # #

ABOUT KOWNACKI VS. ARREOLA
Kownacki vs. Arreola pits undefeated Polish star and Brooklyn-native Adam Kownacki against veteran former title challenger Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola for a heavyweight showdown that headlines FOX PBC Fight Night on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday, August 3 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

The broadcast starts at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features unbeaten interim WBA Light Heavyweight Champion “Sir” Marcus Browne battling former world champion Jean Pascal in a 12-round bout, plus Brooklyn’s Curtis Stevens makes his 154-pound debut against Wale Omotoso in a 10-round fight.

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

LAS VEGAS, NV (August 1, 2019) – The Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame is happy to announce that all its living inductees will be present at the 7th Annual Induction Gala Weekend happening August 9th and 10th 2019 at Red Rock Casino Resort and Spa in Las Vegas.

The 2019 Induction Class consists of Bernard Hopkins, Juan Manuel Marquez, “Terrible” Terry Norris, Joel Casamayor, Leroy Haley, Wayne McCullough, Hasim Rahman, Humberto “Chiquita” Gonzalez, Vinny “The Pazmanian Devil” Paz, Ronald “Winky” Wright and “School Boy” Bobby Chacon. Non-Boxer Participants Duane Ford, Dan Goossen, Dr. Flip Homansky, Floyd Mayweather Sr. and Marc Risman.

“It brings me great pleasure to know that all our living inductees will be present at this year’s Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Gala,” said CEO and NVBHOF President Michelle Corrales-Lewis. “This is going to be a fun weekend where fans of all ages will be able to hang out with some of boxing most recognized fighter’s, past and present. Proceeds from our events help support boxing programs in the state of Nevada, so I encourage everyone to get their tickets now, and be part of this great community.”

Tickets priced $95 (Ceremony only) $250, $350 (Dinner and Ceremony), and $500 (Access to all weekend events) for the weekend’s events and Induction Gala are on sale now. For more information please visit www.NVBHOF.com

For Credentials Please Apply HERE

New York, NY (August 1, 2019) DiBella Entertainment’s Broadway Boxing returns tonight with a special edition of the Summer Series, titled “Night of the Contenders”, from the Monroeville Convention Center, in Monroeville, Pennsylvania. The event will be live streamed exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, beginning at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT. Broadway Boxing: NIGHT OF THE CONTENDERS is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, in association with Pinnacle Fighting Championships, and is presented by Nissan of Queens, Azad Watches, OPTYX, Christos Steak House and Gagliardi Insurance.

Fighting for the first time since competing for “The Contender”, Ievgen “The Ukrainian Lion” Khytrov (18-2, 15 KOs), of Brooklyn, New York, will headline the event against Gabriel Pham (11-1, 5 KOs), of Atlantic City, New Jersey, in an eight-round contest with the vacant WBC USNBC super middleweight title at stake. The heavy-handed Khytrov, co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Fight Promotions Inc., defeated both Morgan Fitch and Malcolm McAllister by knockout on “The Contender” series last year. Pham is riding a five-bout winning streak, including a unanimous decision victory against previously undefeated Jaba Khositashvill on June 20, in Atlantic City. Each fighter weighed in at 167.6 pounds.

In the co-featured bout, junior middleweight Eric “The Baby Faced Assassin” Walker (18-2, 8 KOs), of Plaquemine, Louisiana, will take on Jose Antonio “Bachata” Abreu (14-5, 8 KOs), of La Romana, Dominican Republic, in an eight-round bout. On “The Contender”, Walker defeated John Jackson and John Thompson before losing a hard-fought majority decision over five rounds to tournament champion Brandon Adams on May 22, 2018, in Los Angeles. In his last fight, Walker won an eight-round unanimous decision versus Michael Moore on November 9, 2018, at the Forum in Los Angeles, CA. Walker weighed in at 154.2 pounds and Abreu, 155 pounds.

The upset-minded Jose Antonio Abreu returns following an outstanding victory against hometown favorite Wesley Tucker in Toledo, Ohio, on July 6. The battle-tested veteran has faced numerous contenders and top prospects over his seven years as a professional, including Kerman Lejarraga, Euri Gonzalez and Madiyar Ashkeyev.

Welterweight contender Ivan “The Volk” Golub (16-1, 12 KOs), of Brooklyn, New York, will meet Joaquim Carneiro (25-10, 23 KOs), of Sao Paulo, Brazil, in an eight-round bout. Co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Fight Promotions Inc., the 30-year-old Ukrainian southpaw is currently riding a three-bout winning streak. He last fought on April 10, earning a dominant 10-round unanimous decision against Manuel Alejandro Reyes at Sony Hall in New York City. As an amateur, Golub accumulated a 270-32 record, while becoming a five-time Ukrainian National champion, and won bronze medals at the Junior World Championships in 2006 and at the World Championships in 2009. He also participated in the World Series of Boxing, winning all five of his bouts. Golub tipped the scales at 148.6 pounds, while Carneiro came in at 150.4 pounds.

Puerto Rican junior welterweight prospect Victor Padilla (4-0, 4 KOs), will make his DiBella Entertainment debut tonight against Benjamin Borteye, of Silver Spring, Maryland, in a scheduled four-round bout. Now living in Berlin, NJ, Padilla was born in Vieques, Puerto Rico, and had a stellar amateur career, compiling a 90-7 record while becoming a three-time National champion. He is now trained by Raul “Chino” Rivas and fights out of the same camp as IBF Super Featherweight World Champion Tevin Farmer. Padilla weighed in at 139.4 pounds and Borteye, 140.4 pounds.

Undefeated heavyweight prospect Mike Balogun (13-0, 10 KOs), of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, faces St. Louis, MO, veteran Ed Fountain (12-5, 5 KOs) in what promises to be an exciting clash, scheduled for eight rounds. The athletic Balogun is a former college football standout who started for the Oklahoma Sooners before playing in the NFL for three years. The southpaw Balogun will be fighting for the third time this year, with knockout victories against Marquis Valentine and Danny Calhoun coming in February and April. Fountain is seeking to rebound from a hard-fought loss to undefeated contender Hemi Ahio on March 2, in Columbus, Ohio. Balogun weighed in at 233.6 pounds, and Fountain, 240.6 pounds.

Local fan favorite Bill Hutchinson (17-2-4, 8 KOs), 134.4 pounds, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, faces Charlie Serrano (16-4-2, 5 KOs), 127.6 pounds, of Tampa, Florida, in a scheduled eight-round lightweight attraction. The 30-year-old Hutchinson is currently on a seven-bout winning streak, which includes a stoppage victory against Justin Savi last August.

Heavyweight Bob Weisen, 195.8 pounds, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, will make his pro debut against Dennis Vance (1-0, 1 KO), 235 pounds, of Detroit, Michigan.

Tickets for tonight’s Broadway Boxing: NIGHT OF THE CONTENDERS, promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Pinnacle Fighting Championships, and presented by Nissan of Queens, Azad Watches, OPTYX, Christos Steak House and Gagliardi Insurance, are priced at $100, $50 and $25, and can be purchased online HERE. The Monroeville Convention Center is located at 209 Mall Plaza Blvd., Monroeville, PA 15146, just 12 miles east of Pittsburgh. Doors will open at 6:30 pm, with the first fight scheduled for 7:30 pm. For more information on the venue, please visit their website HERE.

Boston, MA. (August 1, 2019):

After a sold out debut event last month that saw 2,300 people pack Encore Boston Harbor’s Picasso Ballroom, Murphys Boxing is proud to announce an immediate return to the newly opened 2.6 billion dollar resort on Friday, August 23rd.

The stacked card will feature the stateside return of one of Murphys Boxing’s most popular fighters, Top 20 world ranked junior middleweight contender, Gary ‘Spike’ O’Sullivan (30-3, 21 KOs) and Top 10 world ranked, Abraham Nova (15-0, 11 KOs) who will defend his NABA Super Featherweight Championship.

O’Sullivan will take on hard hitting Argentinian veteran, Diego Marocchi (18-4-1, 14 KOs) in an 8 round showdown that promises fireworks between two fighters that don’t know how to take a step back.

‘Spike’, the handlebar mustached fighter from Cork, Ireland, has a massive following in Boston having fought over 10 times in the New England area, including his last fight this past St. Patrick’s Day when he stopped Khiary Gray in a bloody slugfest.

In the co-headliner, one of the hottest fighters in the super featherweight division, Murphys Boxing’s own, Abraham Nova will take on famed Mexican veteran, Miguel Beltran Jr. (33-7, 22 KOs) for Nova’s NABA Super Featherweight Championship in a 10 round bout.

Nova, the flashy young fighter known for his bleached blonde beard and elaborate ring entrances is currently ranked #7 in the world by the WBA and is closing in on a world title shot in the red hot division that features popular champions like Gervonta Davis, Tevin Farmer and Andrew Cancio.

The co-main event will see Murphys Boxing’s own Ecuadoran Olympian, Carlos Gongora (16-0, 12 KOs) in his toughest test yet in a 10 round middleweight bout against ‘The Mexican Windmill’, Alan Zavala (15-4, 13 KOs) that will see the winner move into bona fide prospect status.

The undercard will feature a who’s who of Boston area based fighters including:

Lynn, Massachusetts’ Khiary Todd (8-1, 6 KOs) who will face Florida based Brazilian, Alex Sandro Duarte (14-7-1, 11 KOs) in a 6 round junior middleweight bout.

Mansfield, Massachusetts’ James Perella (4-0, 3 KOs), who fought on the debut Encore Boston Harbor event this month. The amateur standout will return in a 4 round welterweight bout against an opponent to be named and it will be the young fighter’s 5th bout in just five months as a professional.

The card will be rounded out with 6 local fighters who will be making their pro debuts against each other when Stoneham, Massachusetts native, James Perkins takes on Boston’s Aaron Trecell Smith in a 4 round cruiserweight bout, Watertown, Massachusetts’ Greg Bono takes on Whitman, Massachusetts’ Brian Urday in a 4 round junior welterweight bout and Boston’s Jonathan Depina takes on an opponent to be named in a 4 round lightweight bout.

“People are still buzzing about our last event at Encore Boston Harbor.”, says Ken Casey, Murphys Boxing founder and promoter.

“It’s so exciting to be coming right back to Encore and on UFC Fight Pass with our big guns like Spike, Nova and Gongora all on the same card while the excitement is still in the air.”

“We were thrilled to see such success with our inaugural Murphys Boxing event,” says Robert DeSalvio, President of Encore Boston Harbor.

“We are so happy to bring these Las Vegas-style events to the Boston area and we’re glad to see the community responding so well. We plan to continue offering these can’t miss nights.”

Murphys Boxing presents O’Sullivan vs. Bonelli and Nova vs.Beltran for the NABA Super Featherweight Championship on Friday, August 23rd at Encore Boston Harbor (1 Broadway, Everett, MA., 02149). Doors open at 7pm. Tickets start at 50 dollars and are on sale now 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, Greg Vendetti, Gary ‘Spike’ O’Sullivan and undefeated prospects like Niall Kennedy, Carlos Gongora, William Foster III and more.

For more information visit: www.murphysboxing.com

ABOUT ENCORE BOSTON HARBOR

Encore Boston Harbor is a $2.6 billion Five Star global destination gaming resort featuring 671 hotel rooms with sweeping views of the Boston skyline and Boston Harbor, an ultra-premium spa, specialty retail, 15 dining and lounge venues and a state-of-the-art ballroom and meeting spaces. It is the largest private, single-phase development in the history of the Commonwealth.

Situated on the waterfront along the Mystic River and connected to Boston Harbor, Encore Boston Harbor will open up the Everett shoreline to the public for the first time in more than a century. The resort has created a six-acre park along the water which will feature pedestrian and bicycle paths that provide access to the waterfront, an events lawn, picnic and public viewing areas. Ornate floral displays, public art, retail and dining experiences will overlook the Encore Harborwalk.

For more information visit: www.encorebostonharbor.com

ABOUT UFC FIGHT PASS

UFC FIGHT PASS® is the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. Since launching in 2013, FIGHT PASS is now available in more than 200 countries and territories. FIGHT PASS provides its members with unlimited access to live UFC FIGHT PASS Prelims; live mixed martial arts and combat sports from around the world; original series and historical programming; special features; behind-the-scenes content; in-depth interviews; and up-to-the minute reports on the world of combat sports. FIGHT PASS subscribers also have 24/7 access to the world’s largest fight library, featuring more than 17,000 bouts from dozens of combats sports organizations, as well as every fight in UFC history. Fight fans can access FIGHT PASS on personal computers, iOS and Android mobile devices, Apple TV, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Sony TVs with Android TV.

For more information visit: www.ufc.tv/page/fightpass

For credential requests to the August 23rd event or to speak with any of the fighters on our roster for coverage – drop us a line at info@murphysboxing.com and we will hook it up!
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Former welterweight champion Carlos Baldomir was sentenced to 18 years in prison for sexually abusing his daughter in Argentina, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

Baldomir denied the charges. And when he arrived at court for the beginning of his trial, he gave the middle finger to reporters covering it. According to media reports in Argentina, Baldomir’s ex-wife, who is the mother of the child, reported Baldomir to police when she discovered what had happened.

Charlie Edwards will make the second defence of his WBC Flyweight World title against his Mandatory Challenger Julio Cesar Martinez at The O2 in London on Saturday August 31, live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK.

Edwards ripped the WBC 112lbs crown from Cristofer Rosales on an emotional night at The O2 in December, outclassing the Nicaraguan with a masterful display to take a well-earned unanimous decision in his second World title attempt. 

He turned on the style as he successfully defended his World title for the first time against Spain’s Angel Moreno at the Copper Box Arena in March, winning every round against his former sparring partner in a dominant display. 

Martinez, hailing from Mexico City, landed his shot at the coveted green and gold belt by taking out highly-rated Welshman Andrew Selby in five rounds in their Final Eliminator bout earlier this year in March.

It was a first career loss for Selby, who was once regarded by many as one of the brightest prospects in the UK. A brutal left hook liver shot ended proceedings in the fifth session to set up a first World title shot for Martinez. 

Losing on his professional debut in October 2015, ‘El Rey’ has since won fourteen fights on the bounce, scoring eleven knockouts in that impressive run. Halting Selby means no opponent has gone more than six rounds with the 24-year-old since June 2017.

“He’s a very tough Mexican who can bang with both hands,” said Edwards. “His record shows that he’s a massive puncher and we saw that in his last fight against Andrew Selby. He got him out of there in the fifth round and was hurting him on a number of occasions. He’s coming to bring it and he’s going to try and rip that WBC title off me. This is his World Cup final.

“He’s going to put it all on the line. He’s going to be coming hard and fast from early to try and put me under pressure, but I believe my boxing skills and the experience that I’ve gained throughout my short pro career will see me through. I expect to have a punch perfect performance. I believe that he will bring out the very best in me. 

“Timing is everything, I believe this is my era. I have arrived at my destination at the right time and I’m loving the journey. This is another legacy fight for me, and I believe that I will build a great legacy. To fight your Mandatory Challenger on one of the biggest cards in British boxing this year is brilliant because it showcases my skills around the world.” 

“I can’t wait to challenge for the WBC Flyweight World title in London,” said Martinez. “I’ll be taking that famous green and gold belt back to Mexico with me. I have already knocked out one Brit and on August 31 I will make it two.”

Promoter Eddie Hearn said: “This is another great fight added to a brilliant card at The O2. We saw Martinez knock out Andrew Selby recently in his Final Eliminator and he is an aggressive, fearless fighter who will be coming to try and take Charlie’s belt. Charlie is now established as the best 112lb fighter in the World right now and I expect another brilliant performance from him at The O2. This will be a fast paced, explosive fight and there’s still plenty more to come on this card!”

Adam Smith, Head of Sky Sports Boxing, said: “Charlie Edwards has been an enthralling success story in British boxing and it’s fantastic to add his next WBC title defence to the Vasiliy Lomachenko-Luke Campbell bill.

“Charlie has grown as a fighter since claiming the WBC belt on that emotional night last December, but Julio Cesar Martinez is a real danger-man as shown in that win over Andrew Selby. 

“We also have Hughie Fury’s heavyweight clash against Alexander Povetkin on an action-packed evening, with more fights to be added before Luke Campbell’s epic World title battle with Lomachenko.”

BELFAST (Aug. 1, 2019) – The final press conference for Michael Conlan’s homecoming bout — Saturday evening at Falls Park against Diego Alberto Ruiz — was a relatively subdued affair compared to what will be a raucous, sold-out atmosphere when he steps into the ring.

Conlan (11-0, 6 KOs), one of the sport’s top featherweight contenders, will face his hardest test to date against Ruiz (21-2, 10 KOs). Conlan-Ruiz will headline the ESPN+ stream starting at 5 p.m ET. The undercard stream, which will begin at 3 p.m. ET, will feature the middleweight showdown between Luis Arias (18-1-1, 9 KOs) and Dublin native Luke Keeler (16-2-1, 5 KOs).

Two days before the big event, part of the annual Féile an Phobail summer festival, this is what everybody had to say.

Michael Conlan
“I’ve had a target on my back since the amateur days. Even when I came into the professional ranks, there were expectations on my shoulders. I know how to deal with the pressure.”

“This is obviously different and something bigger than I could have ever imagined, but I just plan on going in there and enjoying it. When I get into the ring, it’s all business.”

“Over the last six or seven months everything has clicked. I’ve been in training for this fight since April, and I’ve learned so much. I believe this is a coming out party for me and it’s the best Michael Conlan you’ll see.”

Diego Alberto Ruiz

“I know Michael Conlan very well and he’s a very quick and fast boxer. He’s had a fantastic amateur career, but we’ve come here to win this fight and that’s what we’ll do.”
Adam Booth (Conlan’s Trainer)

“I want to see the progression and want to see what Michael does in the gym when he’s out in the spotlight. It’s all about the evolution of him as a fighter, and this is an event to match it.”

“This event is extremely popular, and he’s fighting a guy who is better than anyone he’s boxed so far in his career. This is a special event, and my job is to ensure he does his job and that he performs how he’s supposed to perform.”

Jamie Conlan (MTK Global Professional Development Coordinator)

“Boxing is a major part of Belfast, especially West Belfast. It was always a safe haven for us as kids. Boxing is a savior for a lot of kids growing up, and the Feile is the same.

“It’s given the people of West Belfast something to look forward to in the summer, so to combine the two together is fantastic.”

Luis Arias

“I’ve done my homework on Keeler and I don’t think he’s ready. I like to back my things up with facts. I fought a world champion at 27. When he was 27, he was fighting bums. The experience will be a big factor.”

ESPN+, 5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT

Michael Conlan vs. Diego Alberto Ruiz, 10 rounds, Conlan’s WBO Intercontinental and vacant WBA Intercontinental featherweight titles

Chris Jenkins vs. Paddy Gallagher, 12 rounds, Jenkins’ British and vacant Commonwealth welterweight titles

ESPN+, 3 p.m. ET/12 p.m. ET

Luke Keeler vs. Luis Arias, 10 rounds, middleweight

Padraig McCrory vs. Steve Collins Jr., 8 rounds, super middleweight

Paddy Barnes vs. Joel Sanchez, 6 rounds, flyweight
For more information, visit: www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook: facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing.

Use the hashtags #ConlanRuiz and #TheConlanRevolution to join the conversation on social media.

About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the multi-sport, direct-to-consumer video service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. It reached 2 million subscribers in less than a year and offers fans thousands of live events, on-demand content and original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, along with premium editorial content.

Programming on ESPN+ includes hundreds of MLB and NHL games, exclusive UFC, Top Rank boxing and PFL fights and events, top domestic and international soccer (Serie A, MLS, FA Cup, UEFA Nations League, EFL Championship, EFL Carabao Cup, Eredivisie, and more), thousands of college sports events (including football, basketball and other sports), Grand Slam tennis, international and domestic rugby and cricket, new and exclusive 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) and can cancel at any time.

ESPN+ is available as an integrated part of the ESPN App (on mobile and connected devices) and ESPN.com. They are the industry-leading all-in-one digital sports platform, delivering a rich, personalized experience to tens of millions of fans every month.

Savannah Marshall, Britain’s first ever female amateur World Champion, has signed a promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing.

The undefeated Hartlepool sensation, trained by Peter Fury, has cruised to six straight wins since announcing herself in the professional ranks on the blockbuster Floyd Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor bill at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in 2017.

The 28-year-old ‘Silent Assassin’ remains the only boxer to have inflicted a ring defeat on undisputed Middleweight World Champion Claressa Shields. Marshall outpointed the US golden girl in China on route to cementing herself as Britain’s first ever female amateur World Champion in 2012.

She was last seen demolishing tough Bulgarian Borislava Goranova in one round at Victoria Warehouse in May and believes her link up with Matchroom Boxing will provide her with the perfect platform to secure a mega fight will long-term rival Shields.

“I couldn’t be happier to announce I’m teaming up with Matchroom Boxing and Sky Sports, alongside my team mate Hughie Fury and many other great fighters,” said Marshall. “I am blessed to be back working with Adam Smith who mentored me though my achievements in Team GB. I’d like to thank my coach Peter Fury, Mick Hennessy, Eddie Hearn not forgetting MTK for making this dream a reality. With this platform I aim to show the boxing World another level to female boxing.”

“I’m delighted to welcome Savannah to the team, it’s another great signing,” said Eddie Hearn. “I watched Savannah in the GB squad where she was an exceptional amateur winning Gold in the first ever Women’s World Championships and also represented GB in the 2012 Olympic Games. As a pro she has been faultless and is almost ready to take her shot at a World title. There are some great fights out there for her, particularly Claressa Shields, who she defeated as an amateur. Claressa has been a driving force behind the women’s game and a rematch between the two would be great to watch.”

Adam Smith, Head of Sky Sports Boxing, said: “We’re absolutely delighted that the next stage of Savannah Marshall’s exciting career will be shown on Sky Sports. I know Savannah well, she was a Sky Sports Scholar for four years, and she’s a fantastic talent.

“Savannah now has a perfect platform to showcase her skills with Sky Sports and Matchroom Boxing. Eddie has already guided Katie Taylor to undisputed World title glory – and now we’ll also be following Savannah’s rise towards a World title fight.”

Lincoln, RI (Aug. 1, 2019) — Rivalries renew next Friday as CES Boxing returns to Twin River Casino Hotel with a loaded championship doubleheader to close out the summer season.

Reigning NBA Heavyweight World Champion Juiseppe Cusumano (18-2, 16 KOs) of Sicily looks to add another belt to his collection when he battles “The Gentle Giant” Steve Vukosa (11-1, 4 KOs) of nearby Quincy, MA, in the eight-round main event for the vacant WBC USNBC crown.

In the co-main event, WBC Youth World Lightweight Champion Jamaine Ortiz (11-0, 6 KOs) of Worcester, MA, puts his unbeaten record on the line in an eight-round showdown against French challenger Romain Couture (8-1-1, 4 KOs), who makes his United States debut.

Tickets for the Aug. 9 fight card begin at $47 and are available online at www.cesboxing.com or www.showclix.com. Doors open at 6 p.m. ET and the first fight begins at 7.

“On Aug. 9, we’re showcasing two peak performers at the top of their game in what will be the event of the summer!” said CES Boxing president Jimmy Burchfield Sr. “Juiseppe Cusumano and Jamaine Ortiz belong on the sport’s biggest stage and we’re thrilled to deliver two competitive bouts at Twin River Casino Hotel, New England’s premier boxing venue.

“The last time these two stepped into the ring on the same night, we sold the arena out and we intend to do the same next Friday.”

The undercard features six undefeated prospects looking to keep their perfect records intact in dangerous bouts against worthy adversaries, including Pawtucket, RI, featherweight Ricky De Los Santos (8-0, 1 KO), who battles Reading, PA, vet and Dominican standout Yeuri Andujar (4-1, 3 KOs) in a six-round featured bout. Lightweight Michael Valentin (6-0, 1 KO) of Providence, RI, also steps up in his toughest test to date against Philadelphia’s Lonnie Jackson Jr. (4-1-1, 1 KO), in a six-round special attraction.

Even with a stacked undercard, next weekend’s headliners will be tough to match. Cusumano enters fresh off a thrilling win over Brendan Barrett in February, earning the victory via sixth-round knockout. He has now won three in a row and 16 out of 17 dating back to 2012 with 14 of those wins coming by knockout as he continues to climb the ladder in the wide-open heavyweight division, a weight class officially put on notice with Andy Ruiz Jr. unseating title-holder Anthony Joshua in June.

An accomplished amateur, Vukosa returns following a comeback bout in July, which ended a four-year layoff. The slick, 6-foot-4 southpaw formerly trained under Freddie Roach at the famed Wild Card Boxing Gym in Los Angeles before a knee injury derailed his career. He came back in 2014 after 12 years away from boxing and dethroned former Olympian Jason Estrada before earning a spot on the short-lived ESPN Boxcino Tournament, where he battled Donovan Dennis.

The WBC USNBC title has been held by some of the best heavyweights in boxing, past and present, including world-title challengers Chris Arreola and Eric Molina, former world champion Bermane Stiverne, and “Baby” Joe Mesi, a contender under the guidance of CES Boxing who captured the belt at Twin River with a win over Shannon Miller in 2007.

There’s not much that hasn’t been said already about the ever-improving Ortiz, who followed up his masterpiece against previously-unbeaten Ricardo Quiroz in February with a crushing first-round knockout win over Vitor Jones in April. As the accolades continue to pour in, Ortiz keeps pushing himself to the limit, stepping up again next week against the dangerous, relatively unknown Couture, who makes his U.S. debut after launching his career on foreign soil. Couture has won five in a row since a draw in October of 2017.

Another red-hot fighter, Marqus Bates (7-2, 5 KOs) of Taunton, MA, aims for his sixth consecutive win in an intriguing six-round welterweight bout against well-traveled Lancaster, PA, vet Evincii Dixon (8-23-2, 3 KOs), who fights for the 34th time in six years and returns to Rhode Island for the first time since 2013.

Bates has gone on a tear of late, stopping Connecticut’s Jair Ramos in February and then handing Wilfredo Pagan of Massachusetts his first career loss via knockout. Dixon become a fixture in New England in 2013 when he battled CES stablemates Nick DeLomba, Christian Lao and Jimmy Williams in consecutive bouts and makes his way back to the Ocean State following what might be his most impressive win, a second-round knockout over previously-unbeaten Philadelphia native Marcel Rivers in June.

Also facing a tall order on the undercard, Big Six Boxing Academy super welterweights Victor Reynoso (4-0, 4 KOs) and Lamont Powell (4-0, 1 KO), both of Providence, put their identical records on the line in four-round featured bouts. Reynoso battles Canadian Kenny Chery (2-2, 1 KO), whom Powell faced in February, while Powell looks to build off his impressive win in April in a major step-up against Reading’s Ricardo Garcia (14-7-1, 9 KOs), a Dominican Republic native and veteran of 22 professional fights.

A potential showstopper between unbeaten super lightweight prospects Elijah Peixoto (1-0, 1 KO) of East Providence, RI, and 26-year-old “Slick Hands” Carlos Otero (2-0) of Tampa highlights the preliminary card. Peixoto debuted earlier this year in grand fashion with a knockout win over Carlos Galindo. Otero, a decorated amateur much like Peixoto, returns from a two-year layoff. Worcester, MA, welterweight Nicholas Briggs (4-0, 3 KOs), also unbeaten, returns to face Macon, GA, native Bryan Goldsby (5-13), a veteran of 18 professional bouts.

Visit www.cesboxing.com, www.twitter.com/cesboxing or www.facebook.com/cesboxing for more information, and follow CES Boxing on Instagram at @CESBOXING.

BROOKLYN (July 31, 2019) – Undefeated Polish star and Brooklyn native Adam Kownacki and former heavyweight title challenger Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola showed off their skills at world famous Gleason’s Gym on Wednesday as they near their main event showdown that headlines FOX PBC Fight Night this Saturday from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

Also in attendance and competing in action beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT were unbeaten WBA interim light heavyweight champion “Sir” Marcus Browne and former champion Jean Pascal, who meet in a 12-round duel, plus Brooklyn’s Curtis Stevens, who takes on Wale Omotoso in a 154-pound matchup.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

ADAM KOWNACKI

“I’m ready to go. I’m looking to make a statement on Saturday. It’s been a long full camp and I’m ready for anything Arreola is going to bring.

“My focus is completely on Chris Arreola. Of course somewhere in the back of your mind you think about the future. But I know that I have to take care of business Saturday before anything.

“I’m ready to go 12 rounds. I want to get the knockout and we’re going to fire versus fire. The knockout is definitely what we trained for and I’m expecting that result.

“This is great exposure for me and we’re going to give the fans a great fight. We’re both coming in with heavy hands and we’ll be ready to let them go.

“It’s going to be an amazing atmosphere. I can’t wait to see the crowd and enjoy the moment. It’s going to be a sea of red and white shirts. You can’t miss it.

“I used to go to all of Tomasz Adamek’s fights at Prudential Center and that was really inspiring. Seeing everyone come together was amazing. One guy being able to bring everyone together is incredible.”

CHRIS ARREOLA

“I’m excited and I feel great. I’m looking forward to the fight. This is going to be a fun heavyweight fight. We’re going to put on a show for the fans.

“I wouldn’t consider it an upset if I win. I’m here to win. I’m supposed to win. Just because he’s undefeated, that doesn’t mean anything. He’s fought some good fighters, but I’ve fought better.

“This is a whole new challenge for him. He’s never faced anyone like me. I’ve had a strong training camp and I’ve gotten tremendous work in this camp. This isn’t the same Arreola who fought Deontay Wilder.

“I love fighting. There’s nothing better than two men going in a ring and testing each other. Hitting someone in the face is the best feeling in the world.

“I don’t think Adam is overconfident. He should be confident. He’s undefeated and fighting in front of his home crowd. It doesn’t bother me if he thinks he’s going to beat me up.

“At the end of the day, it’s only me and him in the ring. His fans can cheer all day, but it’s only going to give me added motivation to beat him.

“I absolutely have to get the knockout on Saturday. I’m in his backyard. I don’t like judges. I have to get it done as soon as I can Saturday.”

MARCUS BROWNE

“This is going to be fireworks. It’s going to be his last hurrah, so I know he will go down fighting like a champ. I’m ready for it.

“Whatever the future holds, will come together after this fight. I’m just focused on putting on a great performance and defending my title.

“Training camp was very good. I had some really tough sparring partners. I’m going to keep my game plan in my back pocket. But if the knockout presents itself, it presents itself.

“I’m in tip-top shape and I’m ready to go to work. I’m going to show off all of my God-given abilities on Saturday night.

“I’m completely focused on Jean Pascal and only him. Whatever happens after this fight, I’ll let my team do the work. They’ve done a great job so far. I just have to be ready for whoever it is.

“My long term goal is to be unified and undisputed in this division. I’m going to conquer this division first before I worry about any next steps.

“Training camp in Colorado was tremendous. I’m ready to get in there and have some fun. This is the fun part for me.”

JEAN PASCAL

“I feel great right now. It’s exciting to be back in New York. Training camp went very well. I have no injuries and no excuses leading into Saturday night. I’m ready to unleash.

“I’m training to be back on top. I was already a world champion when I was Marcus’ age. I’m training to get back to that spot and beating Marcus Browne will help me get there.

“Experience is definitely in my favor and of course I’m going to use it. He has youth, and he has speed, but I also have speed. He’s strong, but I believe I’m stronger. Experience is not something you can buy or learn, you have to live it.

“I don’t know exactly how much more I have left, but I know for a fact that the tank is not empty yet. That’s why I’m still in the game. I’m going to empty the tank and then live peacefully.

“I’ve proven it already that I’m one of the best. I still believe I’m one of the best in the weight class. Marcus still has to prove that.”

CURTIS STEVENS

“I’m feeling strong right now. We had a good training camp and we’re just putting the finishing touches on right now. I’ve been working hard for a while and when I got the call for this fight I was very excited.

“You never want to see an injury like what happened to Andre Berto. It does feel good to have this opportunity to fight on FOX and at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

“I’ve been sparring some faster guys in training since it’s my first fight at 154-pounds. That’s the only difference in the weight. But it’s been the same style of hard work that we always put in.

“Wale Omotoso comes forward when he wants to but also will try to box. He’s never been knocked out, so that gives me something to aim for.

“I’m going to have the same power as I did at the other weights. The speed is going to be different and everyone is going to see on Saturday.”

# # #

ABOUT KOWNACKI VS. ARREOLA
Kownacki vs. Arreola pits undefeated Polish star and Brooklyn-native Adam Kownacki against veteran former title challenger Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola for a heavyweight showdown that headlines FOX PBC Fight Night on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday, August 3 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

The broadcast starts at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features unbeaten interim WBA Light Heavyweight Champion “Sir” Marcus Browne battling former world champion Jean Pascal in a 12-round bout, plus Brooklyn’s Curtis Stevens makes his 154-pound debut against Wale Omotoso in a 10-round fight.

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

ATLANTIC CITY (JULY 31, 2019)-This Saturday night’s big fight card at The Carousel Room at The Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City has been Postponed.
Unforeseen circumstances and logistical issues with some of the bouts is the reason for the show being moved to an early Fall date.

Rising Star Promotions is deeply sorry, and will be back with a great night of  action at The Showboat.

Tickets may be returned to the point of purchase and more information for upcoming events can be viewed at www.rspboxing.com

Ray Flores
We greatly appreciate the media joining us from around the world as we are very excited and thrilled for this Saturday’s FOX PBC Fight Night Live on FOX and FOX Deportes headlined by undefeated Polish star and Brooklyn native Adam Kownacki as he battles the exciting former title challenger, the hard-hitting, Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola in a heavyweight showdown from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

We get started 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT, and feature unbeaten interim WBA Light Heavyweight Champion “Sir” Marcus Browne, also an Olympian as he battles the former world champion Jean Pascal in a 12-round matchup.

Also Brooklyn’s own Curtis Stevens dropping down to 154-pounds as he squares off against Wale Omotoso in a 10-round matchup. Tickets for the event, they are going quickly. You can purchase them at ticketmaster.com or also at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center and all brought to you by TGB Promotions.

It gives me great honor and pleasure to introduce the President of TGB Promotions – one of the smartest minds in boxing. Please welcome my dear friend, Mr. Tom Brown.

Tom Brown
Thank you, Ray, and thanks everyone for joining us for this conference call, for what should be an amazing PBC on FOX and FOX Deportes card presented by Premier Boxing Champions at Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™ on Saturday night. BROOKLYN BOXING is now a very well-known brand in the industry because of the dedication to boxing and the support of Brett Yormark, the CEO of BSE Global.

I’m very excited about this fight. I’ve been waiting for this one for a long time. I know Adam and Chris have as well. It’s a very intriguing fight in the heavyweight division, a division which has certainly got a lot of attention and a lot of buzz lately.

So thank you everyone again for joining us, and I’ll hand things back over to Ray to introduce the fighters.

R. Flores
Let’s meet one of the participants in our main event of the evening. His record, 38 wins, 5 losses, 1 draw, 33 wins coming by way of knock out. From Los Angeles, California, a three-time heavyweight title challenger who’s gone up against the likes of Deontay Wilder, Vitali Klitschko, Tomasz Adamek and also Bermane Stiverne. Most recently in action at AT&T Stadium, a part of the Spence – Garcia FOX Sports Pay Per View Event. He finished off the previously unbeaten Jean Pierre Augustin in March. Please welcome, ladies and gentlemen, the always entertaining and the extremely dedicated and focused Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola.

Chris Arreola
First I’d like to thank everyone that’s out here right now and FOX for putting this great show on. I can’t wait to get in the ring with Adam. It’s going to be a fun night. It’s going to be a great night of boxing and I’m excited. I’ve been working hard, and I know Adam’s ready, and I’m very ready to get this show on the road.

R. Flores
Now for Adam Kownacki. His record, 19 wins, no losses, 15 wins coming by way of knock out. A 30-year-old who was born in Poland before moving to Brooklyn when he was only seven years of age. He is no stranger to Barclays Center. This will be the ninth time that he has sparred at Barclays Center but the first as the main event at Barclays Center. He had an impressive decision over former champion Charles Martin last September and most recently halted Gerald Washington in two rounds in January.

Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome the entertaining Adam Kownacki.

Adam Kownacki
Hello. Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure. I can’t wait to put on a show on August 30.

Q
With the recent news with Dillian Whyte, do you feel like a convincing win on Saturday night would, help you possibly slip in there and get that fight with Wilder a little sooner than expected, perhaps?

A. Kownacki
Yes, I think so. I think what I heard was that Deontay had some other stuff coming up with Luis Ortiz, and the fight with Tyson Fury. So definitely, hopefully towards the 2020 I’ll be able to get a crack at him. But most importantly I’ve got to make sure I get past Chris Arreloa August 3 this Saturday.

Q
Chris, when you called Joe Goossen three months ago, you knew it’s going to be a hard training camp. Why Joe Goossen and what happened during those three months?

Adam, for many, many years the number one on your list was Chris Arreola. Why Chris?

C. Arreola
Well, the reason I went with Joe Goossen is first I’ve known Joe for many years. I’ve always been a fan of Joe ever since the Castillo – Corrales fight. And he’s part of the family. Dan Goossen was my old promoter, rest in peace. I wanted to keep it in the family. I like the way he works. I like that he’s an old school — very old school — kind of a coach. He’s very methodical and he makes sure that he’s there every minute of training camp.

It’s been very beneficial and it was a great experience for me. And I can’t wait to fight this Saturday so I can put everything on the line.

A. Kownacki
I think he’s still one of the biggest names in the heavyweight divisions. With all the great fighters he was in there with, he beat a lot of them. And then against the top ones he came up a little bit short. So I knew if I could beat Chris Arreola, I’m more on those sides that are really on the top of their game and top of the division. So I thinking beating a guy like Chris Arreola puts me up there in the top 10, top five category.

Q
I had the pleasure to speak with Joe Goossen last night and he said he doesn’t believe the fight goes past seven rounds. Chris, your opinion? Also Adam, you?

C. Arreola
I honestly agree on that. And it’s not saying anything negative against Kownacki because it could go either way. He can knock me out like I can knock him out. The thing is that we both have extensive amateur experience. We both know how to fight. We both just need a little window of opportunity to knock someone out. That’s all we need because we have the experience and we have the power. That’s the reason why Joe will say that because we’re both the fighters that – exciting fighters that are going to put it on the line.

A. Kownacki
Yes. I’m ready for 12 rounds but if I get an opportunity to make it quick or go for it, I’ll go for it. It’s like you said before, if you guys have been boxing for a while, you’ve seen Chris around for a while. You see me coming up with the past couple of years so it sounds like the perfect matchup, like a great matchup for fans. We’re both looking for a knockout, so there is definitely going to be a lot of heavyweight haymakers being thrown. It’s not one of us trying to get the finish, it’s both of us trying to get the finish.

Q
Chris, I wonder if you could speak to your experience of having that sort of pressure that was part of your identity of the guy trying to become the first from your heritage to become heavyweight champion, now the way Adam is trying to become the first from his background.

C. Arreola
See the thing is that he has the whole Polish nation behind him, and it is a bit of a burden. Not so much a burden, but it’s a big weight on your shoulders to be carrying around. And as for myself, it was. It was a hard burden and a hard weight on my shoulders for me to carry around. And now that Andy did it, I feel like the weight is off my shoulders now. Now I can just actually just fight.

I think Adam just needs to just fight and not worry about first this or first that because the main thing is is getting that win and getting that fight and not getting caught up in the whole being the first because it’s a bit overwhelming. If you let yourself be caught up in that situation.

Q
Chris did you get caught up in that the first time you fought for the title?

C. Arreola
The first time was really the most pressure, when I fought Klitschko. That was the biggest pressure. The second time when I fought Stiverne, I didn’t have any pressure. I didn’t feel like I had the pressure because I was actually in really good shape and I was ready for that fight. Just happened that I got caught, and it’s boxing.

I was actually worried about the fight more than worrying about making history. And that’s really what you really have to be worried about, is just the fight in hand, the task in hand, because if you don’t take care of the task in hand, then there is no history.

It wasn’t even on my mind at all against Wilder. My mind at that point was just on winning the title. I wasn’t even thinking about being the first Mexican champion or being the first anything. All I wanted to be is be the champion. I just wanted to be a champion.

Q
Now that Andy has done that and did so in a huge upset, what were your feelings about that?

C. Arreola
I was happy for him, for his family, because he deserves it. Like I said, I’ve known the kid since he was 17 years old and he’s always been hungry. He’s always worked hard. He’s always been a big boy, but he’s always been a big boy with skill. And I was elated for him. I was elated for the Mexican fans that finally we had a Mexican champion. And he did it, man. And honestly, a lot of pressure came off of me and I congratulate him. I’m happy for him.

Q
So no disappointment that should you get another chance to fight for a heavyweight title that you cannot accomplish that particular feat?

C. Arreola
Absolutely not. Not at all. I’m not a bitter man and I’m not a man that’s going to be a resentful man. I love it. And I appreciate him, and I love what he did for the sport because he didn’t just do something big for the Mexican people but he made something big for the sport of boxing and for the heavyweight division because now it’s wide open.

Q
How does it feel to be the veteran in this type of fight instead of being the younger heavyweight?

C. Arreola
It’s the circle of life, man. Everything goes around, right? Goes around full circle. I was once a young lion and now I’m the old veteran. That’s exactly how I feel. I feel like Jameel McCline against me, but I feel like I’m in great shape. I feel like I’m ready to put on a great show, and I don’t feel like this is the end of my show. I think this is just another chapter of my boxing career.

I honestly believe that Adam is a great fighter. I think that he’s a really good fighter, but I’ve got to keep my career going.

Q
Do you still look at this fight and this run overall where it’s still one loss and you’re done, you’re retired for good?

C. Arreola
Absolutely. Absolutely man. No disrespect to anybody, no disrespect to Adam, because I think he’s a great fighter, but personally, if I lose, there’s no reason for me to be in the sport of boxing. I’m in boxing to be a champion. If I lose, it brings me all the way back to the bottom, and I don’t want to keep crawling back up and keep crawling back up again. I’m too old to be doing that.

So it’s a make or break kind of fight. It’s a win or go home thing. I know Adam has intentions to retire me, and I’m not planning to retire no time soon. I know Adam worked his butt off to get me out of boxing, but I worked hard myself.

Q
How do you feel getting this opportunity and potentially maybe enticing a guy like Deontay Wilder to fight, especially if you get a big win over Chris?

A. Kownacki
I grew up there. I grew up in Brooklyn. So it’s a great feeling being the headline and having all my friends, all my family, the whole community there and having my back and supporting me making something of myself. Growing up in Brooklyn, it’s very tough but it’s very rewarding. But yes, this is just the beginning. I feel this is the step in making something even bigger and greater.

Q
You mentioned wanting to beat Chris quicker than when Deontay Wilder did a couple of years ago. If you do beat him in quick fashion, do you think that alone will be enough to get that world title opportunity? Or do you feel like maybe there’s a still a little more before you can fully convince the title holder that’s heavyweight before getting that shot?

A. Kownacki
I think so. We spoke about his fight against McCline earlier today. So maybe that’s what I’ll do to Chris. I know it took Wilder seven or eight rounds. So if I do it in half the time, I’ll be happy. Especially with somebody tough like Chris Arreola.

Q
Are you concerned about Adam’s home field advantage at the Barclays Center?

C. Arreola
No not at all, man. No disrespect to the Polish fans for anything like that because I appreciate every fan. Every fan that comes in there gives me added motivation. At the end of the day it’s going to be me and Adam in the ring. There are not going to be any fans in the ring. So I’m okay.

Q
Do you picture yourself and imagine yourself as a future heavyweight champion with all the money and celebrity that can come with that or do you really just take things one fight at a time?

A. Kownacki
That’s my goal. I have a mission to be the first Polish born heavyweight champion of the world, and that’s my goal. You’ve got to stay humble because a lot of times you know it could drop you down back to earth real quick. I remember being an up and coming fighter, being four and 0, four knockouts. And I had a little misfortune of breaking my left hand and I was out for three years. I felt my whole world came crashing down.

But it was a very valuable lesson to make sure I’m humble. The goal remains the same, to be the world champion. And the fame and all that stuff that comes with it great. Right now I’m just laser focused on becoming heavyweight champion. Chris is in my way so I’ve got to make sure I’m able to win on Saturday.

Q
What are some of the new things that maybe you paid attention to with Joe that you didn’t necessarily focus on in the past?

C. Arreola
One of the main things that Joe does is he is a back to basics trainer. He makes sure that you’re tall and jab right. So I think that my punches are going to come out of the pocket a lot smoother and he’s taught me a lot of new defensive movements. The main thing is doing this and making everything just flow.

Q
You debuted as a professional in 2003. It’s 2019 now and you’re 38 years old. How would you say our perspective towards boxing has changed from then to now?

C. Arreola
Well, my perspective from boxing, the main thing I have changed is the work ethic, the way you work. You really have to work, because boxing is my job, so I have to work like it’s my job. I have to treat my body right, like it’s a machine, because it is a machine. The main thing now, especially because I’m older, is paying attention to my body and working hard and not beating myself up where I ain’t going to have nothing left tomorrow.

Q
What’s the biggest piece of knowledge that’s been invaluable to you as a veteran?

C. Arreola
Well inside the ring, as far as inside the ring, the main thing is staying calm. You can’t get all wild and get excited because that’s just wasted energy. And outside the ring is just being open with the fans man. Because you’ve got to remember, you’re nobody without the fans. And just like that, they could pull the carpet under your feet and legs and you can land flat on your face. Got to be humble. Got to treat everyone the way you want to be treated. So that’s just my main thing. And moderation. Everything in moderation.

Q
Adam you and Chris are very physically similar to each other same height, same reach. What do you feel that you do that separates the two of you?

A. Kownacki
It’s definitely very similar styles. Obviously we fight very similar. We throw a lot of punches, we both come forward. So I guess it’s going to be a more experienced lion fighting a younger, hungry lion. You’re going to see whose lands on top. Me and Chris are so similar, like I said, so we have similar aspects from our height, our reach, the way we fight, but it’s going to be the experience could stopping the youth.

Q
Chris, do you think it’s a good thing for boxing to be able to kind of breakdown the sides of the street mentality?

C. Arreola
That’s the way it seems. Boxing is also good because everybody’s their own boss. I think what PBC is doing with boxing is great. It gives us a platform to perform. I think it’s got to be great for the fighters and there are a lot of great fights. So I think it’s just a better when everybody’s satisfied.

Q
Adam are you pretty confident those fights can still be made that are kind of cross that promotional divide?

A. Kownacki
Of course. The fights are going to happen it’s just a matter of coming to an agreement that satisfies everyone.

Q
Chris, being that Adam is a heavy favorite in the fight and you’re viewed as kind of the older guy, how much motivation has that given to you that you’re kind of in some respects being counted out this time?

C. Arreola
I don’t even pay attention to the odds to be honest with you. My main motivation is win or go home. That’s my motivation. My motivation is to keep fighting, to keep putting food on my family’s table, keep making a living off of boxing. That’s my motivation.

Q
Chris, do you view this as your last chance, basically, so to speak?

C. Arreola
Absolutely. This is my last chance, man. This is my last chance not because the media or anything like that. This is my last chance because I say so. If I lose, I go home, no matter if it’s a great fight, if it’s a great fight or great event or it’s a could have gone either way, plain and simple. I lose it, I go home. I stay home. One and done, no more. So this is my added motivation. This is all I want. This is what I’m living for.

Q
Adam, how much more dangerous does that make Chris being that he’s toward the end of his career and he does view this as his last opportunity to kind of get where he wants to go?

A. Kownacki
A lot. I think that a desperate man is a dangerous man and I think he’s very desperate to get in line for a title shot. He had two knockout wins in a row so I’m prepared for the best Chris Arreola. He looks like he’s in great shape. I’ve just got to make sure I have a better game plan and that I’m in better shape, which I know I’ve put in a lot of hard work for.

Q
When do you think you think your world title shot will come and what do you intend to do until then?

A. Kownacki
Keep training. Stay in shape. I could have had an opportunity to fight Anthony Joshua but I was out of shape. So I didn’t pick up the challenge. So from now on, I’m in boxing shape. That’s it. Because the title shot could come around the corner in a couple of weeks’ notice because injuries and accidents happen. So I’m definitely going to be in camp nonstop, always working and perfecting my craft.

Q
Did you regret not being ready when that call came just because Joshua was upset in that fight?

A. Kownacki
Yes, as I said I was not in any shape. I wasn’t in the boxing shop. I wanted to fight. It was my birthday. I found out my wife was pregnant, so I enjoyed life a little bit, which I regret because boxing’s my fulltime profession. And since that call I was, like, yo I got to get in shape and make sure that never happens again.

So it was a learning lesson which maybe stopped me from achieving my goal a little faster than I would have. But I kind of wasn’t ready so it was the right choice. I just got to compete to go down there. That’s what life is about. It’s about getting through our experiences, learning new lessons and making sure you’re always in shape. So I’m in pretty good shape now, and if that call comes again in the near future I’ve got to be ready.

R. Flores
All right, guys. We appreciate both Chris Arreola and Adam Kownacki taking out the time. Before we let them go as they get prepped for their showdown this Saturday FOX PBC Fight Night from Barclays Center in Brooklyn all promoted by TGB Promotions. We go live 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. Final comments from Chris Arreola and Adam Kownacki. We’ll start off with Chris Arreola. Chris?

C. Arreola
You know what? I’m just ready for this Saturday. Let’s get this show going, man. See you guys this week. Thank you.

R. Flores
Adam, final comments?

A. Kownacki
No sleep till Brooklyn. I’ll see you guys on August 3.

# # #

ABOUT KOWNACKI VS. ARREOLA
Kownacki vs. Arreola pits undefeated Polish star and Brooklyn-native Adam Kownacki against veteran former title challenger Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola for a heavyweight showdown that headlines FOX PBC Fight Night on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday, August 3 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

The broadcast starts at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features unbeaten interim WBA Light Heavyweight Champion “Sir” Marcus Browne battling former world champion Jean Pascal in a 12-round bout, plus Brooklyn’s Curtis Stevens makes his 154-pound debut against Wale Omotoso in a 10-round fight.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.

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.

LOS ANGELES, CALIF. (July 31, 2019): Former world title challenger Antonio “Relentless” Orozco (28-1, 17 KOs) of San Diego, Calif. discussed the importance of experience as he prepares to invade enemy territory in his 12-round fight against hometown hero Vergil Ortiz Jr. (13-0, 13 KOs) for the WBA Gold Welterweight Title. The event, which features a stacked undercard, will take place on Saturday, Aug. 10 at The Theatre at Grand Prairie in Texas and will be streamed live on DAZN.

Below is Orozco had to say at a recent visit to the Maywood Boxing Club in Southern California, where he spent many days sparring during camp:

ANTONIO OROZCO, Former World Title Challenger:

“When the fight was presented, I thought it would be one hell of a fight because of the type of fighter that I am, and the type of fighter Vergil Ortiz is. This is a fight that pretty much sells itself. Going to a fighter’s hometown is a situation that I’ve been in before when I fought for a world title. I went in there determined to win. For this particular fight, I have the same determination, but I’m looking for a different outcome. I just want to win; I need a big win.”

“Because he is young, you can see that Vergil is a fighter that wants to put on a show. That’s a big danger in any fight, and it’s something you have to look out for. Vergil is just that type of fighter, very exciting, aggressive. We have to be ready for that. I know that he’s never been past the fourth or fifth round but can’t just rely on that. We have to make our fight. These are just statistics, facts that are put out there. Once we’re up in the ring, the scenarios can change.”

“From my defeat last year, I learned to be patient. Sometimes it won’t be an all-out brawl. We’re learning how to control the pace. This is a fight where we’re looking to control the distance and take it into the later rounds. Every fight is a learning experience, not just in my loss to Jose Ramirez, but from previous fights as well. There’s always something to learn, but obviously staying composed is very important.”

“On August 10, I’ll come with a lot of experience, but I’m just not counting on that. This is boxing, and anything can happen. Every fighter has his flaws and every fighter has his strengths. So, we’re just going to have to stay really focused on what corrections we may have to do during the fight. That’s how we’re going to approach the fight.”

“For this fight, I’ll be fighting in a new weight division. I think there’s a lot more opportunities at 147 pounds. We’re going to work for a victory, and we’re going to sit down and see what our options are after. With a big fight, plenty of doors can open, especially since it’s against a fighter of this caliber.”

“Going into somebody’s backyard is no easy task. We just have to be prepared to the best of our abilities and expect a very strong fighter that night. After the Ramirez fight, I think found out exactly what I’m about. I faced a champion like Ramirez, and I pushed myself until finished the fight. I think that speaks a lot about myself. We’re going to bring that same passion on August 10.”

“Come August 10, the fans can expect an explosive fight. Like I mentioned before this fight sold itself. The styles that myself and Ortiz have will give the fans what they want, which is fireworks.”

Ortiz vs. Orozco is a 12-round fight for the WBA Gold Welterweight Title presented by Golden Boy. The event is sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING,” and Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle.” The event will take place on Saturday, Aug. 10 at The Theatre at Grand Prairie in Texas and will be streamed live on DAZN.

Tickets for Ortiz vs. Orozco are on sale and are priced at $125, $75, $50, and $30, plus applicable taxes, fees, and service charges. Tickets can be purchased at goldenboytickets.com, AXS.com, by phone at 888-9AXS-TIX (888-929-7849), and at The Theatre at Grand Prairie Box Office (Monday -Saturday 11:00 am CT – 3:00 pm CT or 972-854-5076).

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

Photos and videos are available for download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link: http://bit.ly/OrtizOrozco into a browser. Credit must be provided to Golden Boy for any photo and/or video usage.

PHILADELPHIA (July 31, 2019) — Former super featherweight world champion Jason Sosa won’t have to travel far for his next assignment. The native of Camden, New Jersey, will make the short drive to Philadelphia to face veteran Haskell Lydell Rhodes in a 10-round super featherweight bout Saturday, Aug. 10 at the Liacouras Center.

Sosa-Rhodes will be the co-feature to the Carl Frampton-Emmanuel Dominguez featherweight clash and will stream live on ESPN+, the leading multi-sport streaming service, beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

The undercard will stream live on ESPN+ beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT.

“I was supposed to fight July 19 against Erick De Leon, but he got injured. That doesn’t matter now. I’m ready for Rhodes,” Sosa said. “I couldn’t care less as long as my team prepares me to fight that person I’m scheduled to fight. That’s all I care about.”

“I’m going to show everyone watching on ESPN+ and all the great boxing enthusiasts in Philly that Haskell Lydell Rhodes is a top fighter,” Rhodes said. “Jason Sosa is a former world champion, and that has motivated me to show what I’m made of.

“Yes, this is short notice, but I’m an old-school guy. I’m in the gym every day.”

Sosa (22-3-4, 15 KOs) was the sport’s “Cinderella Man” of 2016, as he knocked out WBA world super featherweight champion Javier Fortuna in the 11th round of an all-action bout. Later that year, he defended the title in Monte Carlo with a unanimous decision over Stephen Smith. Back-to-back defeats to Vasiliy Lomachenko and Yuriorkis Gamboa halted Sosa’s momentum, but he has won two in a row, most recently grinding out a 10-round unanimous decision over Moises Delgadillo on Jan. 18 in Verona, New York. Rhodes (27-3-1, 13 KOs), who is now based in Las Vegas, is an eight-year pro who has never been stopped in 31 professional bouts. An Oklahoma native, Rhodes is 4-1 since an 0-2-1 skid that included competitive decision losses to Sergey Lipinets and Edner Cherry.

The following bouts are scheduled for the undercard stream:

• The long-awaited professional debut of two-time Cuban Olympic gold medalist Robeisy Ramirez will come against Adan Gonzales (4-2-2, 2 KOs) in a four-round featherweight bout.
• South Philadelphia-born heavyweight puncher Sonny “The Bronco” Conto (3-0, 3 KOs) will take on Guillermo Del Rio (2-2-1, 2 KOs) in a four-rounder. Conto was one of Tyson Fury’s chief sparring partners for Fury’s June 15 bout against Tom Schwarz. Conto stopped Daniel Infante in two rounds on the Fury-Schwarz card in Las Vegas.
• Middleweight sensation Edgar Berlanga (11-0, 11 KOs), who has 11 straight first-round knockouts to begin his career, will face an opponent to be named in an eight-rounder.
• Donald Smith (9-0, 6 KOs), a 5-foot-11 southpaw featherweight from Philadelphia, will look to notch his second victory of the year against Abdur-Raheem Abdullah (3-2, 0 KOs) in a six-rounder.
• Paul “The Punisher” Kroll (4-0, 4 KOs) will look to thrill the hometown fans versus fellow unbeaten Shinard Bunch (2-0, 2 KOs) in a six-round super welterweight bout. Kroll, who turned pro last August, has three first-round knockouts on his ledger.
• Jeremy “Magic Hands” Adorno (1-0, 0 KOs) will fight the upset-minded Fernando Robles (2-1, 0 KOs) in a four-round super bantamweight bout.

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

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Peltz Boxing and Queensberry Promotions, tickets priced at $100, $55 and $35 (not including applicable fees) are on sale now and can be purchased at the Liacouras Center Box Office and www.liacourascenter.com, or by calling Peltz Boxing at 215-765-0922.

Use the hashtags #FramptonDominguez and #SosaRhodes to join the conversation on social media.

About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the multi-sport, direct-to-consumer video service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. It reached 2 million subscribers in less than a year and offers fans thousands of live events, on-demand content and original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, along with premium editorial content.

Programming on ESPN+ includes hundreds of MLB and NHL games, exclusive UFC, Top Rank boxing and PFL fights and events, top domestic and international soccer (Serie A, MLS, FA Cup, UEFA Nations League, EFL Championship, EFL Carabao Cup, Eredivisie, and more), thousands of college sports events (including football, basketball and other sports), Grand Slam tennis, international and domestic rugby and cricket, new and exclusive 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) and can cancel at any time.

ESPN+ is available as an integrated part of the ESPN App (on mobile and connected devices) and ESPN.com. They are the industry-leading all-in-one digital sports platform, delivering a rich, personalized experience to tens of millions of fans every month.

Anthony Fowler – Liverpool, England – 9-1, 8 KOs – fighting Brian Rose for the vacant WBO Inter-Continental Middleweight title:

“Obviously in my last fight I learned a harsh lesson of going in all guns blazing and going for the knockout, not the win, so I learnt a lot that night and I’m just grateful to have a great fight straight away. I couldn’t think of anything worse than boxing some journeyman over six rounds like I did for my first nine fights. As Brian says, the respect is there and it is a great fight and he’s a great fighter but I walk into this fight knowing that I’ve given everything, every ounce of strength that I’ve got. I’ve trained my arse off, I’ve studied tapes, I’ve watched that last fight about ten times, it kills me to watch it. I’ve watched the mistakes, I’ve learned and I know with this fight that I’m at my best so whatever happens happens because I’ve given it 100%.

“I’d boxed him (Fitzgerald) before at amateur, I’d watched his whole career and I wasn’t impressed. I didn’t think he was capable of that performance so I just thought it would be a routine win. Obviously I got the shock and got proved wrong. I’ve learned not to underestimate anyone, I’m prepared for the best Brian Rose there’s ever been and I’m prepared to beat that fighter.

“Obviously that defeat is still there but you know what I haven’t slept for 15 weeks I’ve just been thinking I need to win this fight more than anything. It has been on my mind constantly. I need to win no matter what. I’ve been a bit obsessed with this fight and this fight is one more step closer to that rematch that I desperately want.”

Brian Rose – Blackpool, England – 31-5-1, 8 KOs – fighting Anthony Fowler for the vacant WBO Inter-Continental Middleweight title:

“I’m in the shape of my life. I am bigger and making the weight better. I’ve not made weight yet but I know tomorrow it will be easy, I’m on weight now. I’m in peak condition, this has the makings of a great fight. I respect Fowler and his team, we’ve spent a bit of time in Marbella together and I like Dave Coldwell and what he’s done with the lads, he’s done a great job, they’re actually friends of mine. It is nothing personal, it is just business, he’s looking to get his career back on track and I’m looking to revive mine. There’s no doubt in mine that I will be reviving mine.

“What started it was that I wanted no regrets. I didn’t want to finish my career on the loss of Jack Arnfield, he’s was one of my best friends, I didn’t want that to happen. I went to America and going to America changed my life. I got pushed to limits that I didn’t even know my body could go. I’m doing things now that I couldn’t even do at 24, 25 so for me, two or three years ago this could have been a good fight but I believe that he’s got me at the wrong time. It sounds mad because I’m 34 and I know Anthony thinks that he’s got me at the right time because I’m a little bit older and people think I’m past it but I honestly believe he’s getting me at the wrong time. I’m in the shape of my life. Like I say, I’m doing things in sparring and in the gym that I’ve never done before. 

“I think in the end experience is what will tell in the fight, but like you say it’s got the makings of a great fight. I know I’m going to get him and I’m sure he knows he’s going to get hit but as I said I think experience will take its toll and that’s what will win me the fight.”

Jack Cullen – Bolton, England – 16-1, 7 KOs – defending his English Middleweight title against John Harding Jr:

“This is a really important fight for my career. I’m just glad that John Harding Jr has taken this fight. I am the English Middleweight Champion and I’m staying the English Middleweight Champion. That’s a fact. I’ve trained hard so it doesn’t matter who you fight. As long as you train hard and you put the time and effort in. I can beat anyone, I’m ready. I’ll have a lot of fans in there, it’s going to be a good night.”

John Harding Jr – Brixton, England – 7-0-1, 1 KO – challenging Jack Cullen for his English Middleweight title:

“I want to thank everyone for coming out and I want to thank God for this situation that I’m in now. I’m getting so many messages of support from people that I’ve touched with my story and my progression. I’m so thankful. When this opportunity came I just said ‘yes’ straight away. As soon as they said who it would be against I said ‘yes I can take him’.

“It just fits so right with the situation of my life and my story. He’s got more experience than me and had more fights. I’m coming to take his crown and win. I just feel fired up about being the underdog right now. My heart is blazing and I’m ready for war. I’m just ready to go in there, all guns blazing. It’s going to be a good fight, it’s going to be war.”

Sean McGoldrick – Newport, Wales – 9-0, 2 KOs – fighting Thomas Essomba for the vacant WBA Continental Bantamweight title:

“This fight has really got me excited. I’m looking forward to this one more than any of my other fights. I’m really excited for it and it is a great fight. This is my first title fight which is a massive thing for me. I think our styles will gel. It will be a good fight.”

Thomas Essomba – Ryhope, England – 8-5, 3 KOs – fighting Sean McGoldrick for the vacant WBA Continental Bantamweight title:

“Firstly I would like to say thank you for this opportunity. I’m looking forward to Friday.”

Robbie Davies Jr – Liverpool, England – 18-1, 12 KOs – fighting Michal Dufek in a 8 round Welterweight contest:

“It’s great to be back in Liverpool. It’s another chance to show everyone what I can do. All of these unification fights coming back in the 140lbs division, that’s the mix I want to be in. I feel like I’ve paid my dues with the British, Commonwealth and European titles. I’m looking now for World title eliminators and pushing onto that World scene. That’s my main goal now. I’m having a tick over fight to keep busy but I’m looking for those big fights towards the end of the year. Friday night I’m looking to put on a performance and get a big KO win.”

Martin Bakole – Airdrie, Scotland – 12-1, 9 KOs – fighting Ytalo Perea in a 8 round Heavyweight contest:

“Firstly I want to thank my God, and thank you Matchroom for welcoming me to the team. Thanks to my coach Billy Nelson and to AJ for helping me. I’m looking forward to Friday night. I want to look good so Eddie can put me on his show in Glasgow. I’m very excited to fight live on Sky Sports. I can’t wait for Friday night.”

John Docherty – Montrose, Scotland – 5-0, 5 KOs – fighting Darryl Sharp in a 4 round Super-Middleweight contest:

“I’m here to put on a good show. When I get in that ring I’m looking for the knockout. On Friday night I’ll be looking for my best knockout yet. I’m looking forward to boxing in Liverpool. I’ve never boxed in Liverpool before so I’m looking forward to getting another big knockout. I’m ready to step up now. I feel like I’m ready but it’s just down to my coach Tony and yourself Eddie. I’m ready to fight these boys now. I think I’m British title level now. Never mind in a few months time.”

Qais Ashfaq – Leeds, England – 6-0, 3 KOs – fighting Sean Davies in a 8 round Super-Bantamweight contest:

“This kid on Friday is going to come to fight. I think that suits me perfectly. Liverpool has been good to me, I won my second senior ABA title here and I’ve boxed here plenty of times. I’ve not lost, so touch wood we don’t lose on Friday and we get an excellent performance and a excellent win.”

Dylan Evans – Manchester, England – 2-0 – fighting Aleksandrs Birkenberg in a 4 round Super-Featherweight contest:

“I was a bit upset when the Manchester card fell through because it’s every Manchester lad’s dream to fight at the MEN but I’m grateful to Matchroom for getting me on this show and I’m looking forward to putting on a big performance. It’s great working with Crolla. He’s been through everything in his career. I can only gain top experience from him. I’m picking more and more up each day.”

Thomas Whittaker Hart – Liverpool, England – 1-0 – fighting Ivo Krastev in a 4 round Light-Heavyweight contest:

“I was gutted about the show in Manchester but it’s probably worked out better for me now getting to fight back in my own city. I’m happy. It’s just about putting on a good performance on Friday night. My debut opponent hung in there at times. I was gutted to not get him out of there but it was all good experience for me. I came through the fight easily so it was a good night.”

BELFAST (July 31, 2019) –  Michael “Mick” Conlan emerged from Belfast City Hall and walked up the steps of the makeshift ring set up outside in Donegall Square. In the center of the city, Conlan, the fighting pride of Belfast, took center stage.

Conlan (11-0, 6 KOs), one of the greatest amateur boxers to come out of the Irish system, will fight Diego Alberto Ruiz (21-2, 10 KOs) Saturday evening at Falls Park as part of the city’s annual Féile an Phobail summer festival.

Conlan has fought in Belfast once before as a pro, but this event is expected to draw roughly 10,000 of his most rabid supporters. Wednesday’s media workout was a celebration of Conlan’s Belfast roots, as the city’s Lord Mayor, John Finucane, stopped by to say a few words.

Ranked in the top 10 by two of the major sanctioning organizations, Conlan has a world title shot on his mind. In Ruiz, he is facing the toughest test of his career, a bruiser from Argentina who has won 10 straight dating back to June 2016.

After working out, this is what Conlan had to say.

Michael Conlan

“Fighting at Falls Park is really a dream come true. Féile an Phobail is now in its 31st year. I remember going to the festival for many years when I was a kid. The atmosphere has always been very celebratory for the Irish people, and fighting there on August 3 will be very special. I have so many friends and family who live very close to Falls Park. When I was younger, we lived very close, and it was like a second home for my friends and I.”

“I’m really excited. {Ruiz} is very, very good. He’s a tough guy, and if I want to be world champion, I need to beat this guy. I think you’ll see the best Michael Conlan yet come Saturday.”ESPN+, 5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT

Michael Conlan vs. Diego Alberto Ruiz, 10 rounds, Conlan’s WBO Intercontinental and vacant WBA Intercontinental featherweight titles

Chris Jenkinsvs. Paddy Gallagher, 12 rounds, Jenkins’ British and vacant Commonwealth welterweight titles

ESPN+, 3 p.m. ET/12 p.m. ET

Luke Keeler vs. Luis Arias, 10 rounds, middleweight

Padraig McCrory vs. Steve Collins Jr., 8 rounds, super middleweight

Paddy Barnes vs. Joel Sanchez, 6 rounds, flyweight

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

Use the hashtags #ConlanRuiz and #TheConlanRevolution to join the conversation on social media. About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the multi-sport, direct-to-consumer video service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. It reached 2 million subscribers in less than a year and offers fans thousands of live events, on-demand content and original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, along with premium editorial content.

Programming on ESPN+ includes hundreds of MLB and NHL games, exclusive UFC, Top Rank boxing and PFL fights and events, top domestic and international soccer (Serie A, MLS, FA Cup, UEFA Nations League, EFL Championship, EFL Carabao Cup, Eredivisie, and more), thousands of college sports events (including football, basketball and other sports), Grand Slam tennis, international and domestic rugby and cricket, new and exclusive 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) and can cancel at any time.

ESPN+ is available as an integrated part of the ESPN App (on mobile and connected devices) and ESPN.com. They are the industry-leading all-in-one digital sports platform, delivering a rich, personalized experience to tens of millions of fans every month.

Miami – July 31, 2019 –?“Boxeo Telemundo,” the #1 Spanish-language boxing program in the U.S., wraps up its summer instalment this Friday, August 2 at 11:35 p.m. on Telemundo, featuring two championship events live from Kissimmee, FL. WBO/NABO title holder Yomar “The Magic” Alamo will defend his belt against challenger Salvador “Bufon” Briceno; and WBO #3, Latino champion Jeyvier Cintron faces WBO #2 ranked Koki Eto in a 10-round WBO elimination bout for the chance to challenge the newly crowned WBO super flyweight champion.

“Boxeo Telemundo” commentators René Giraldo and Edgar López will call the action alongside World Boxing Champion and former Olympian Abner Mares. The show will continue its 30th anniversary celebration with special segments that look back at the best moments of the show. The action will also be available via live stream on Telemundo Deportes En Vivo app with additional extensive news and content on TelemundoDeportes.com and social media platforms using hashtag #BoxeoTelemundo.

WBO #10 Yomar Alamo (16-0 12 KO’s) of Puerto Rico will be making his first defense after winning the title in a 10-round shutout over spoiler Manuel Mendez on Boxeo Telemundo this past spring. The challenger, Salvador Briceño (16-4 10 KO’s) of Guadalajara, is coming up in weight to face the champion. On his last fight, he gave top rank prospect Gabriel Flores Jr his toughest fight in an 8-round bout last June.

In the second championship event of the night, WBO #3 Latino champion Jeyvier Cintron (10-0 5 KO’s) of Puerto Rico meets WBO #2 ranked Koki Eto (16-4 10 KO’s) of Japan. The winner will be the mandatory challenger to newly crowned WBO super flyweight champion Kazuto Ioka. Cintron-Eto II is a rematch bout of their May 25th fight in the same venue that ended in a no decision due to an accidental headbutt that ended the fight. The ruling of the contest was a no decision.

“Boxeo Telemundo” will return in October with its fall season. Debuting in 1989, the show has grown to become the #1 combat sports program in the U.S. among Hispanics, across broadcast and cable landscape. Since its launch, “Boxeo Telemundo” has broadcast over 350 title fights, showcasing some of the biggest boxing stars as they rose to stardom and won their first championship titles, earning a reputation as the show “where champions are born.” Among these stars is Saúl Canelo Alvarez, who won his first pro boxing title on “Boxeo Telemundo” in 2008. Other notable champions featured include ?Juan Manuel Marquez, Diego Corrales, Carlos Maussa,? Floyd Mayweather,? Israel Vázquez,? Wilfredo Vázquez,? Rafael Ruelas,? Jorge Solis and many others. In addition, renowned boxing Hall of Famers have also appeared on the show, including Erik Morales, Marco Antonio Barrera and?Felix Trinidad.?

Hughie Fury will take on Alexander Povetkin at The O2 in London on Saturday August 31 on the undercard of the huge Lightweight World title showdown between Vasiliy Lomachenko and Luke Campbell, shown live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK.

Aged just 24, Manchester’s Fury (23-2, 13 KOs) has been fearless in taking on the World’s Heavyweight contenders, losing a majority 12 round decision in a close and controversial WBO World title challenge to New Zealand’s Joseph Parker in 2017.

Then in October 2018 he travelled to Bulgaria to battle former World title challenger Kubrat Pulev, losing on points in a gallant and gory IBF Final Eliminator in Sofia. He heads into his next challenge coming off the back of two wins over Chris Norrad and Sam Peter earlier this month.

Former WBA World Champion Povetkin, a 2004 Olympic gold medallist, was last seen falling short in his challenge to dethrone former WBA, IBF, WBO and IBO Champion Anthony Joshua at Wembley Stadium in September 2018, succumbing to an onslaught in round seven.

The Russian powerhouse (34-2, 24 KOs) remains one of the most fearsome punchers in the Heavyweight division and is well-known amongst UK fight fans following his devastating knockout of Liverpool’s David Price at the Principality Stadium in March 2018.

“I’m over the moon with this news,” said Fury. “I can’t wait. These are the kind of fights I want to be in. Matchroom can get me these big names and I’m just really looking forward to it. Povetkin is a dangerous man. You can’t take anything away from that. He’s not been where he’s been for nothing. It’s a very serious fight but I’m confident of getting the win on the night.

“This fight here represents a massive opportunity. As soon as it was suggested, I said ‘yes.’ Povetkin is a completely different level to my last fight and I believe his style will compliment mine.”

“Hughie Fury is a young, strong and challenging boxer for me to face,” said Povetkin. “I am glad this fight will take place in the United Kingdom where people really love their boxing. I am anticipating an exciting fight and I look forward to returning to London next month.”

“I can’t quite believe this fight has been made,” said Promoter Eddie Hearn. “It’s happened very quickly and it has to be said Hughie Fury has a big set of balls. There’s huge risk in the fight but there is also huge reward and if Hughie can beat Povetkin on August 31 he catapults himself into huge fights and immediate World title contention. It’s going to be a great fight on a great card – a huge night for British boxing.”

Peter Fury, father and trainer of Hughie, added: “It’s a very big fight for Hughie. He gets big exposure and it’s like anything else. Eddie gave us a list of seven opponents and we said we want the best one – Povetkin.

“He’s gone the rounds umpteen times with top opponents. He’s a gold medallist amateur and a former World Champion. He’s a tough fight for anybody. He’s not ranked up there for nothing. I believe Hughie’s ready now. He’s had 25 fights as a professional and this is his time. He’s achieved a lot for his age already but he’s ready for the top.”

Adam Smith, Head of Sky Sports Boxing, said: “Hughie Fury’s Heavyweight clash against Alexander Povetkin is an exciting first addition to the Vasiliy Lomachenko-Luke Campbell bill, with more thrilling fights to be added to another bumper night of action at The O2.

“We’re delighted to have Hughie Fury on Sky Sports Box Office, having worked with his cousin Tyson in the past, and Alexander Povetkin has always produced fireworks throughout his career. Luke Campbell will then test his razor-sharp skills against the supremely talented Vasiliy Lomachenko in a mouthwatering main event.”