LAS VEGAS (July 15, 2019) – World Boxing Council (WBC) female World super featherweight champion Eva Wahlstrom has a new title challenger, Ronica “Queen” Jeffrey, who has replaced Yareli “Chocolita” Larios, in the August 2nd headliner at the famed Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas.

Roy Jones Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions is offering free admission for this latest installment of RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, offering free admission to its loyal fanbase in Las Vegas. 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. will host a meet-and-great for VIP ticket holders prior to the fights.

The main card will stream live and exclusively, starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT, on UFC FIGHT PASS.

Former European champion Wahlstrom (22-1-1, 3 KOs), fighting out of Finland, captured her WBC female World super featherweight title in 2015, winning a 10-round decision over Natalia Vanesa del Valle Aguirre, followed with four successful title defenses, all by way of 10-round decisions, against Dahiana Santana (35-7), Anahi Esther Sanchez (14-0), Mayra Alejandra Gomez (18-5) and Melissa St. Vil (10-2-4).

Wahlstrom’s fifth title defense in the 10-round main event is now against Jeffrey (17-1, 1 KO), the former IWBF world super featherweight champion from Brooklyn. She is also a former WBC Silver featherweight and North American Boxing Federation (NABF) featherweight title holder.

Also fighting on UFC FIGHT PASS are a pair of Fort Worth, Texas fighters, middleweight John “The Phenom” Vera (18-1, 11 KOs) and featherweight Edward “Kid” Vasquez (6-0) in six-round matches.

The former world top 10-rated Vera takes on past WBA FEDALATIN welterweight champion Ravshan Hudaynazarov (17-1, 13 KOs), the Uzbekistan native living in Las Vegas, in the co-featured event.

Vasquez is matched against Dominican Republic knockout specialist Yeuri “Dinamita” Andujar (4-1, 3 KOs) in a battle of contrasting boxing styles.

UFC FIGHT PASS opens with WIBA bantamweight Interim world champion Rosalinda Rodriguez (10-0, 2 KOs) in a non-title, six-round bout against unbeaten Californian Jamie “The Miracle” Mitchell (5-0-1, 3 KOs).

Undefeated Colombian super bantamweight Brandon Valdes (12-0, 7 KOs) is scheduled to fight on the non-streaming undercard against an opponent to be determined.

The evening starts with a lightweight showdown between Californian Donald Brown (7-0, 5 KOs), the WBC Latino featherweight champion, versus fellow undefeated prospect, Dallas’ Francisco Martinez (5-0, 3 KOs), in a six-round bout.

All fights and fighters are subject to change.

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

LOS ANGELES, CA. (July 15, 2019): Golden Boy is saddened by the death of one the greatest fighters to ever lace a pair of gloves, Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker. The legendary boxer passed away late Sunday night at the age of 55.

The native of Norfolk, Va. was one of the best defensive fighters of all time. He began his journey in the sport with a tremendous amateur career, which he completed by capturing a Gold medal in the 1984 Olympic Games. Whitaker represented the United States as part of an all-star team that included Evander “Real Deal” Holyfield, Meldrick “The Kid” Taylor, Mark Breland and other great fighters.

Whitaker then began a historic professional career where he captured world titles in the lightweight, super lightweight, welterweight and super welterweight divisions. In his journey to becoming a four-division world champion, Whitaker faced the likes of Jose Luis “El Zurdo” Ramirez, Azumah “The Professor” Nelson, Julio Cesar Chavez, James “Buddy” McGirt, Felix “Tito” Trinidad and Oscar De La Hoya.

Whitaker completed his career in 2001, and in 2006, he joined the International Boxing Hall of Fame. The legacy of this great fighter will not be forgotten.

“I’m deeply saddened by the loss of this great champion, who gave a tremendous amount of joy to those who watched him,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. “It was an honor to share the ring with him. In terms of his defense and ring generalship, Pernell Whitaker was the best fighter that I ever fought. On behalf of everyone at Golden Boy, we send our prayers and condolences to his family and friends.”

“Pernell Whitaker was beautiful — both as a fighter and as a human being. An artist in the ring, “Sweet Pea” appeared on our World Championship Boxing platform for a decade (1990-1999), giving fans many unforgettable moments. His is a Hall of Fame legacy, which we are forever grateful to call our own heritage. Pernell’s passing is a great loss. We send our condolences to his family, as well as his extended family at Main Events and throughout the boxing community.”

Ray Flores
Thank you very much to the media joining us from all over the world, we are beyond excited for next Saturday, July 20, from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas — PBC on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View — all starting at 9:00 ET/6:00 PT. It is headlined by the eight-division champion Senator Manny “PacMan” Pacquiao battling the WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith “One Time” Thurman in the main event.

This is a stacked car from top to bottom. It is the biggest event of the summer for boxing and it is can’t miss. Tickets for the event, they are going so fast. It is all being promoted by MP Promotion, TGB Promotions, Mayweather Promotions. They are on sale now. You can get them online axs.com, charge by phone 866-740-7711, or in person at any MGM Resorts International Box Office.

Also on today’s call they are available for questions if the media has any questions for them is the President of TGB Promotions Tom Brown, who does an amazing job and works tirelessly. Also the CEO of Mayweather Promotions, a man who knows Manny Pacquiao quite well, Mr. Leonard Ellerbe.

At this time, it gives me great honor and pleasure to introduce the man who’s been involved in boxing for quite a long time and is very familiar with Manny Pacquiao, his long-time publicist Mr. Fred Sternburg.

Fred Sternburg
Thanks so much, Ray. Welcome everybody. Thank you for joining us today. Manny had an amazing camp. According to Freddie and according to Manny it may be their best camp in many years. They’re very excited. It’s the biggest challenge they’ve had in a long time.

Manny has spent about four weeks training in the Philippines. He is finishing his fourth week here in Hollywood at Wild Card Boxing Club. And Freddie Roach is on the call with us. Freddie, you’re just down the street from us where we prefer you to be. How did you think camp is going?

Freddie Roach
It’s a very good training camp, good sparring, and he’s ready to go. We have one more day of sparring today and then we close the camp down. Just getting ready for the fight.

F. Sternburg
Great. And Manny is here as well. Manny, you’re ready to join us? Here he comes. He literally just finished his run and if you were here at his house today, you would have seen about over a dozen people doing sit-ups with him in the front yard. Manny does things just a little differently here. Manny, welcome to the call.

Manny Pacquiao
Good morning. Training camp has been very good and I’m ready for this call.

Q
Did you ever think that you’d still be not only boxing professionally but still at a very high level at the age of 40?

M. Pacquiao
Yes, that’s what I’m trying to prove this time because we know that a lot of our fans and people in boxing were doubting my capability at the age of 40. So I have to prove something this time because at the age of 40 I’m not thinking about my age. I’m thinking about what I can do for the fans.

Q
What is it that gets you doing sit-ups in your front yard in the morning and running and putting in the hard work to train for these fights?

M. Pacquiao
I really love exercise. I’m addicted to exercise. And even if I don’t have a scheduled fight, I always most every day I exercise and I’m playing basketball four to five hours almost every day. So when this time comes and when I have a scheduled fight, then I’m so motivated myself to work hard, to train hard, and to focus to the fight.

Q
You could certainly exercise and do basketball and do all the things you just mentioned without actually getting hit, right?

M. Pacquiao
Yes. Actually after the fight I don’t go to the boxing gym. No boxing at all until I have a scheduled fight.

But I always exercise like playing basketball, sometimes jogging. But no boxing gym at all.

Q
Freddie, what do you see as the motivation for his continued boxing career?

F. Roach
Well, it’s still what he does best. It got him to where he is today. We want to fight a high level person. We’re not in this game just to fight anybody. We want to be the best. And we’d like another championship and I don’t think we’ll stop until we get that.

Q
Do you think Freddie that the opponent, Keith Thurman, is maybe the best of the opponents that Manny’s been with probably since the Mayweather fight?

F. Roach
You can say that. But I don’t think he’s the best fighter. We’ve fought a bunch of better fighters along the way. But yes, he’s a good, solid guy. And it should make for a very good fight.

Q
Do you feel that Thurman has gone over the line with some of the things he’s said to you?

M. Pacquiao
Well, it is kind of over the line for me, but I’m not angry with him. I’m somebody very motivated by all he says. The trash talk that he did, he made even my mom get mad. But it gives me more motivation to focus the training and to focus on my condition, how hard I push the training.

And believe me, this is a very interesting fight for me because it has been a long time that I have focused like this for a fight.

Q
How closely did you watch that fight against Josesito Lopez? And do you feel like watching that fight that he’ll be ready for you?

M. Pacquiao
I’m not considering his performance and style on that fight because he just came back from a long layoff of almost two years. So I understand that. This time, this fight I’m sure he’ll be in 100% condition and I’m sure he did a lot of things in training.

Q
At this point at 40 years old, in the event that you lost this fight would you consider retirement or would you like to keep fighting?

M. Pacquiao
I’m still okay. I can still fight. My body’s reacting well. My mind and everything is fine. And that’s a big favor from God. This is a blessing.

Q
Freddie, I wonder if you’re employing some reverse psychology when you’re saying no, you’re not predicting a knockout is going to happen for Pacquiao at this time. Is this a grand Freddie Roach plan reverse psychology?

F. Roach
No. Manny’s in great shape for this fight and we worked very hard for this fight. And someone asked me if we were looking for a knockout. No, we never look for knockouts. But if it comes, Manny’s in great shape right now and if Thurman wants to trade with us, he will get knocked out.

Q
Do you keep up on the politics and do you stay in touch with your vital political operatives and allies when you’re overseas in America getting ready for a fight? Or can you leave politics alone and purely focus just on the boxing?

M. Pacquiao
I’m focused on my training here in America. We have a long office break. So we resume the work July 22 which is the State of the Nation Address of the President. That’s the start of the work. That’s why after the fight I have to go back to the Philippines to work.

But I’m hearing from my staff in the office, what bills that we’re going to file and what we’re going to do, how many resolutions to file before the session start open.

Q
Are you going to fight one more time this year you think or is that still up in the air?

M. Pacquiao
Yes, there is a scheduled recess. But we will figure it out when the session starts.

Q
How do you prepare for someone that you really haven’t seen at his 100% best in at least a couple of years?

M. Pacquiao
I’m not basing anything off his last performances in his last fight because he was coming from a long layoff of almost I think almost two years. So I understand that as a boxer I really understand that it’s hard to start again. But this time around he worked hard, he’s well prepared for this fight because he’s not fighting Lopez but he’s fighting Manny Pacquiao. So I’m expecting him to work hard and prepare 100%.

Q
Yesterday at the media workout, I was reading that you said that Thurman remind you the most of Ricky Hatton of all the fighters that you faced in the past. And I’m curious to see why you think Thurman reminds you of Ricky Hatton?

M. Pacquiao
The style, the similar style like that. I think they have similar style. But not really the same but it does look like a similar style.

Q
Does it enter your mind as sort of when the window of this great run is going to close or that doesn’t really enter your mindset?

M. Pacquiao
In balancing my body conditioning, my mind, and how I work hard, it depends on how I focus and work hard in training. Right now, I still hunger and I’m still enjoying this and happy to do a training preparation for the fight.

Even my coaching staff, they’re very happy because they’re still watching me and having to tell me when to stop, not watching me to push to do more. But watching me to stop because I might over train.

Q
Has your style changed at all over the years or do you fight the same way?

M. Pacquiao
My style is still the same but I’m more experienced now compared to before. How I fight in the ring and my strategy, my footwork that’s not changing but it’s still the same. But I’m more experienced and my timing in the ring is better than ever.

Q
Freddie from your perspective as the trainer, what do you see is the biggest difference in terms of let’s say training and preparation for Manny at this age versus how you guys prepared back when he was younger?

F. Roach
His work ethic is unbelievable. He wants to work every minute of every day. He wants to do 40 rounds a day in the ring and so forth. We do have to hold him back a little bit. We’re on a five-day running schedule right now instead of six and we’re giving him a couple extra days off during the week trying to get him not to over train because he does have a tendency of wanting to do that.

We got him right where we want him right now and he’s in great shape. He’s ready to go.

Q
Is Keith Thurman the first opponent you’ve faced with a combination of both power and speed at the highest levels?

M. Pacquiao
In my experience, I’ve encountered many boxers that have speed and power. And this is not new for me. I think Thurman, he’s not really that quick but I have to be careful in the ring, in the fight. I have to make sure that everything is fine.

F. Roach
Thurman’s a strong guy and he’s a good puncher. Manny’s speed will overwhelm him, I feel. He hasn’t been in the ring with speed like Manny Pacquiao has and most people get overwhelmed when they face Manny. His speed is unbelievable and at 40 years old it’s as good as ever.

Q
What are your dreams in boxing right now Manny?

M. Pacquiao
I just want to maintain my name in the top of boxing and continue my career. I already accomplished what I want to accomplish in boxing. I’m continuing my career because boxing is my passion. I have lots to do in this, especially because God gave me these blessings and favor that they gave me good health and this is speed and power.

Q
How many fighters have you faced before that you think were better or more complete than Thurman?

M. Pacquiao
Thurman is a different style. Thurman I can say similar style with Ricky Hatton. But I won’t take him lightly. I have to make sure that I’m not careless in the ring.

Q
What about your son fighting?

M. Pacquiao
My son is starting to do some boxing and I am going to support him.

Q
If Thurman fights exactly as you expect him to are you going to knock him out?

M. Pacquiao
That’s going to be lovely if he fights toe to toe with me. Knockouts will come but I’m not saying that I’m going to have a prediction with this fight. I don’t want to be careless in the fight.

But if that chance is given to me, why not? I have to grab that possibility to knock him out.

Q
If Thurman fights you the way Jeff Horn did, would that approach really bother you or would you welcome that?

M. Pacquiao:
Actually, on the Jeff Horn fight I think I over trained. That’s why I have to admit that. But this time around my coaching staff, Freddie, Buboy Fernandez, Justin Fortune, they’re watching closely to not let me get over trained so that in the fight I’m going to be throwing a lot of punches.

After the Horn fight, we learned a lot. I learned a lot. And we changed really the training, not the whole thing, but I give my body rest because it’s hard to make my body recovery when you hit the age of 40.

Q
Freddie, Dan Birmingham and Keith Thurman confirmed that they’re coming directly at you and looking for a knockout early in the fight. Thoughts?

F. Roach
Yes. Talk’s talk. Let’s see who really shows up.

Q
Do you feel as though Keith Thurman gives you any different challenges than Broner did?

M. Pacquiao
He has a different style compared to Broner. And I think this challenge is different than Broner’s fight. But I know Broner is faster than Keith Thurman.

Q
Freddie you said yesterday it’s not like Thurman’s a world class fighter. Why did you say that?

F. Roach
Because I think Broner is a better fighter.

Q
Will we ever see that Manny Pacquiao fight in the Philippines?

M. Pacquiao
That’s what I’m looking for, I’d like to.

F. Sternburg
All right. We’re ready to wrap up here. Manny, any last comments?

M. Pacquiao
Thank you everyone for this interview and I hope to see you in Vegas. And I can’t wait to fight on July 20 next week. Thank you.

F. Sternburg
Freddie before you clean the gym up before Manny gets there today, any final comments?

Freddie Roach
No, he’s just running and trying to catch up to the slowest fighter in the world. No comment.
It’s ‘One Time’ versus ‘All Time.’

ABOUT PACQUIAO VS. THURMAN
Order the PPV and visit PremierBoxingChampions.com for Fight Night Info and more on Manny Pacquiao and Keith Thurman.

Pacquiao vs. Thurman will pit boxing’s only eight-division world champion and Philippine Senator Manny “Pac Man” Pacquiao against undefeated WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith “One Time” Thurman in the main event of a Premier Boxing Champions on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View event Saturday, July 20 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will also feature undefeated former world champion Omar “El Panterita” Figueroa Jr. taking on Yordenis Ugás in a WBC welterweight title eliminator, plus hard-hitting former world champion Sergey Lipinets goes toe-to-toe against rugged veteran John “The Gladiator” Molina, Jr. and undefeated power-puncher Luis “Pantera” Nery faces slick-boxing Juan Carlos Payano in a bantamweight bout.

Tickets for the event are on sale now and can be purchased online through AXS.com, charge by phone at 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resorts International box office.

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

New York, July 15th, 2019

Star Boxing is pleased to announce that the entire ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 35 card, featuring one of The Paramount favorites, DANNY “EL GALLO” GONZALEZ (Woodhaven, NY 17-2-1 7KO’s), as he returns for his fourth main event against JEROME “THE CONQUEROR” CONQUEST (Philadelphia, PA 10-4 1KO) for the WBC FECARBOX Silver Super Lightweight Title. On the undercard, fan favorite TYRONE “PRETTY BOY” JAMES (Elmont, NY 9-0 6KO’s) makes his much anticipated 2019 debut, while highly touted welterweight prospect, RONNIE “TEFLON RON” AUSTION (10-1 6KO’s) challenges for the ABO America’s Welterweight title, against champion DENNIS “BILLABONG” OKOTH (Silver Springs, MD 3-2-1 2KO’s).

FITE, the world leader in the digital distribution of combat sports will stream the event live on the www.FITE.TV website, FITE mobile apps for iOS, Android, and the FITE channels of Amazon Fire, Android, Apple TV, and Roku on a PPV basis. The FITE PPV will stream all five bouts and be available for just $14.99 and will go live at 8:00PM/ET. Check availability in your area by going to the FITE.tv website.

GET YOUR TICKETS TO “ROCKIN’ FIGHTS” 35 TODAY!
FIGHT: FRIDAY, JULY 19TH, 2019
$50, $60, $100, $150, $200
BUY TICKETS HERE!
ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 35: GONZALEZ vs CONQUEST
FIGHT WEEK SCHEDULE
*All Times Are Eastern Times*

WEDNESDAY, JULY 17TH
1:00 PM | OFFICIAL PRESS CONFERENCE
EVENT TO BE STREAMED LIVE ON STAR BOXING’S FACEBOOK PAGE
FIGHTERS REPORT: 12:15 PM | OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
LOCATION: Tutto Pazzo Restaurant
84 New York Ave, Huntington, NY 11743

THURSDAY, JULY 18TH
3:00 PM | OFFICIAL WEIGH-IN
EVENT TO BE STREAMED LIVE ON STAR BOXING’S FACEBOOK PAGE
FIGHTERS REPORT: 1:00 PM | OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
LOCATION: Modell’s Sporting Goods
350 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station, NY 11746

FRIDAY, JULY 19TH
“ROCKIN’ FIGHTS” 35 – FIGHT NIGHT
DOORS OPEN: 7:00PM | FIGHTS BEGIN: 8:00PM
EVENT AVAILABLE ON FITE.TV PPV FOR $14.99, PRE-ORDER HERE.
LOCATION: The Paramount
370 New York Ave., Huntington, NY 11743

“Rockin’ Fights” is presented by JOE DEGUARDIA’S STAR BOXING, on a great night of action at The Paramount, in Huntington, Long Island with a WBC FECARBOX Silver Title on the line in the main event between DANNY “EL GALLO” GONZALEZ vs JEROME “THE CONQUEROR” CONQUEST. Featured on the undercard will be highly touted prospect RONNIE “TEFLON RON” AUSTION challenging for the ABO America’s Welterweight Title against champion DENNIS “BILLABONG” OKOTH, as well as undefeated, Long Island fan favorite, “THE JACKPOT” TYRONE “PRETTY BOY” JAMES, making his 2019 debut.

LAS VEGAS (July 15, 2019) – Welterweight contender, Yordenis Ugas (23-4, 11 KOs) wrapped up his final day of training camp and talks about his up coming showdown with Omar Figueroa Jr. (28-0-1, 19 KOs), a 12-round bout that will serve as the co-main event to Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao vs. WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith “One Time” Thurman, ahead of their Premier Boxing Champions on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View main event this Saturday from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Tickets for the event are on sale now and can be purchased online through AXS.com, charge by phone at 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resorts International box office.

Here is what he said about training camp, facing another undefeated fighter, and more.

On his upcoming fight with Omar Figueroa Jr.:

“This is a big opportunity for me to derail another undefeated fighter. Omar Figueroa Jr. is a young hungry fighter who’s never tasted defeat but that will all change on July 20th. He’s never been in with an experienced fighter like me. I have the style to beat him and I’m going to let my hands fly on fight night!

On fighting in the biggest boxing event of the year:

“I can’t ask for a better situation at this stage of my career. To be fighting on FOX PPV, on the same card as one of the greatest fighters to ever step in the ring in Manny Pacquiao, is a dream come true. I’m truly blessed to be fighting on such a big stage and I’m going to give the fans a night to remember. The fans deserve a war and that’s what I’m going to give them.”

On what a win will do for his career:

“Beating an undefeated fighter like Figueroa will get me right back into a world title fight. These are the type of fights I need to win if I’m going to become a world champion. I’m determined more than ever to prove to the world that I’m one of the best welterweights in the division.”

On his recent training camp:

“Training camp is finally all wrapped up. I did my last day of sparring this past weekend. My trainer Ismael Salas has a masterful game plan in place that we believe will be the perfect blueprint to beat Figueroa. I’m in tremendous shape, ready to let me hands go.”

# # #

ABOUT PACQUIAO VS. THURMAN
Order the PPV and visit PremierBoxingChampions.com for Fight Night Info and more on Manny Pacquiao and Keith Thurman.

Pacquiao vs. Thurman will pit boxing’s only eight-division world champion and Philippine Senator Manny “Pac Man” Pacquiao against undefeated WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith “One Time” Thurman in the main event of a Premier Boxing Champions on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View event Saturday, July 20 from the MGM Grand Gardden Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will also feature undefeated former world champion Omar “El Panterita” Figueroa Jr. taking on Yordenis Ugás in a WBC welterweight title eliminator, plus hard-hitting former world champion Sergey Lipinets goes toe-to-toe against rugged veteran John “The Gladiator” Molina, Jr. and undefeated power-puncher Luis “Pantera” Nery faces slick-boxing Juan Carlos Payano in a bantamweight bout.

Preceding the pay-per-view is FOX PBC Fight Night on FOX and FOX Deportes, which is headlined by undefeated IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Caleb “Sweethands” Plant making the first defense of his title against unbeaten contender Mike Lee. Televised coverage begins at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT with rising unbeaten heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba squaring off against undefeated 2016 Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by MP Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased online through AXS.com, charge by phone at 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resorts International box office.

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

New York, July 14, 2019

Undefeated Elmont, Long Island prospect, TYRONE JAMES (9-0 6KO’s) has been making a name for himself in the New York boxing scene since 2016. James may well be the ‘heir apparent’ to the many Star Boxing world contenders and champions developed at the Paramount. James returns to The Paramount next Friday, July 19th against RAY OLIVIERIA JR. (New Bedford, MA 8-2 1KO) in an eight-round co-feature bout. The James-Olivieria bout will precede the main event for the WBC FECARBOX Silver Super Lightweight Championship between fellow Long Islander, DANNY “EL GALLO” GONZALEZ (Woodhaven, NY 17-2-1 7KO’s) and JEROME “THE CONQUEROR” CONQUEST (Philadelphia, PA 10-4 1KO).

James, standing at 5’10”, fighting in the super welterweight division, works behind a stiff jab, using his length to keep his opponents at a distance. While James has a strong ability to box, he has recently found success with his power, leading to a four-fight knockout streak. For all the skill James has in the ring, he doubles in flash outside of it and has steadily built up a big fan base at the “Rockin’ Fights” series that has become synonymous with thrilling boxing.

James says his nickname, “Pretty Boy,” was given to him because, “I always matched in the gym. People would say “he thinks he’s a ‘Pretty Boy,’ he never comes to the gym without matching from head to toe.'” Always seen wearing his signature, “The Jackpot,” sparkled headband, James says that moniker, “The Jackpot,” stems from his “initials, TJ, and a jackpot is three 7’s. Since my birthday is 3/7/91, I thought it was a perfect match.” From that point on, the growing legend of “The Jackpot” Tyrone “Pretty Boy” James was born.

Fighting a lot as a kid in the streets, James says his “father figured [he] could fight and get rewarded for it,” in hopes that, “it would stop [James] from fighting in the street.” The transition to the ring came naturally for James, who comes from a family of athletes. “My uncle was a professional boxer,” said James, “and my dad was a professional football player for the USFL Oklahoma Outlaws.”

After rising the amateur ranks with a record of 95-16, becoming a five-time Junior Olympic champion, and a Nebraska Golden Glove Champion, James turned pro in 2015. Fighting seven of his nine professional bouts at The Paramount, James says, “The Paramount is like a home to me. Every time the fans give me a standing ovation, and even when I have fought at other venues, you can never get The Paramount feel.” Interestingly, Nebraska’s other star, World Champion, and pound for pound great, Terrence Crawford enjoys coming and watching Tyrone James’ fights at the Paramount, to see his friend and fellow amateur standout at the exciting Long Island venue.

Star Boxing CEO JOE DEGUARDIA said: “we have high hopes for Tyrone James. He has charisma outside the ring and tenacity inside the ring and we think he has a bright future”.

As for what fans can expect from him on July 19th, in typical fashion, Tyrone James did not hold back, “an action-packed fight, and a KO. I fight for my fans and always give 110% each and every time.”

“Rockin’ Fights” 35 is presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.
Bouts subject to change
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FIGHT: FRIDAY, JULY 19TH, 2019
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INFO:
STAR BOXING is excited to return to its renown Long Island venue, The Paramount, on July 19th, for another thrilling night of “Rockin’ Fights.” The 35th edition of the acclaimed fight series yet again brings highly talented New York centric fighters, with an international flair to The Paramount. The main-event
features one of The Paramount’s favorites, DANNY “EL GALLO” GONZALEZ (Woodhaven, NY 17-2-1 7KO’s), as he returns for his fourth main event against JEROME “THE CONQUEROR” CONQUEST (Philadelphia, PA 10-4 1KO) for the WBC FECARBOX Silver Super Lightweight Title. On the undercard, fan favorite TYRONE “PRETTY BOY” JAMES makes his much anticipated 2019 debut, while highly touted welterweight prospect, RONNIE “TEFLON RON” AUSTION (10-1 6KO’s) challenges for the ABO America’s Welterweight title, against champion DENNIS “BILLABONG” OKOTH (Silver Springs, MD 3-2-1 2KO’s).

PREVIOUS RELEASES:
Rockin’ Fights 35 Card Announcement
Rockin’ Fights Media Credential Application
Rockin’ Fights 35: ABO America’s Title Bout – Austion vs Okoth
Rockin’ Fights 35 Official Media Schedule
FACTS:
ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 35 is presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing. “Rockin Fights” is sponsored by Modell’s Sporting Goods, The Inn At Fox Hollow, Camelot Limousine and The Tudor Advisory Group.
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Roseland, NJ (July 15, 2019) – Vito Mielnicki Jr. lived up to the hype as he blasted out Tamarcus Smith in just 76 seconds in what was an historic professional debut on Saturday night at The Prudential Center in Newark. 

The 17 year-old Mielnicki became the youngest boxer ever granted a license in The Garden State, and the Roseland, New Jersey native thrilled a crowd of nearly 1,000 of his own supporters who came out to witness the fight.
Mielnicki landed a booming right-left combination that sent Smith face-first into the bottom rope, and the fight was waved off by referee Shada Murdaugh at 1:16 of the opening frame.

The fight, which was streamed live on ESPN+, and the knockout earned the number-seven spot on ESPN SportsCenter. 

The fighter nicknamed “White Magic” was very happy with his performance.

“It was exactly how I envisioned it.  With the crowd and everything, it made it a lot more electric,” Said Mielnicki.  “I worked for this my whole life, and I knew everything was going to payoff tonight.”

On the finish, “I waited for the right moment to throw the overhand right.  We worked on it all camp.”

Mielnicki, who will be entering his senior year at West Essex High School, is looking to get back in the gym and start preparing for his school year. 

“I go back to school in September. I will consult with my manager Anthony Catanzaro and see what the best fit is for me in terms of a promoter and platform.  I just want to thank all of my trainers who were with me all camp.  I want to thank Top Rank especially Bob Arum and Carl Moretti who put me on their card, commissioner Larry Hazzard for believing in me.  I also want to thank all of my family friends who came out tonight.”

LAS VEGAS, NV (July 15, 2019) – Come celebrate the sport of boxing with at the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame Interactive Boxing Exhibit for “A Night with Boxing Legends” on July 19, 2019. This night will be an experience you will not want to miss, as the NVBHOF will have a raffle to win tickets to the Pacquiao vs. Thurman fight. While hanging out with some boxing legends, you can explore Nevada’s boxing history and try out the equipment used by champions. This event is sponsored by Title Boxing, WBC Boxing, TGB Promotions and HeadzUP.

Entry is $25 and includes 1 Raffle Ticket. The Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame Interactive Boxing Exhibit is located at HeadzUP in The Boulevard Mall at 3542 S Maryland Parkway, Las Vegas, NV 89169. The event starts at 6:00 pm PT.

Previous Night with Boxing Legends celebrity attendees included: Floyd Mayweather Jr., Evander Holyfield, Sugar Shane Mosley, Thomas Hearns, Roberto Duran, Sugar Ray Leonard, Roy Jones Jr., Badou Jack, Jessie Vargas, Leon Spinks, Zab Judah, Shawn Porter, Fernando Vargas, Layla Mc Carter, Ishe Smith, Bones Adams, Kevin Kelley, Ava Knight, James Quick Tillis, Earnie Shavers, Mike McCallum, Ana Julaton, Rock Icon Vince Neil of Motley Crue, R&B Sensation Lloyd, and the list goes on. Don’t miss your chance to mix and mingle with this year’s special invited guests.

The Hall was founded in 2013 by noted boxing broadcaster Rich Marotta. For more information, phone 702-3NVBHOF, or 702-368-2463. Below is the weekends itinerary.

For further information contact:

For Information And Sponsorship Opportunities Contact:
Chief Executive Officer Michelle Corrales-Lewis
Email: michelle@nvbhof.com
Phone: 702-3-NVBHOF (702-368-2463)

San Jose, Costa Rica (July 15, 2019) This Wednesday night, July 17, world ranked super featherweight O’Shaquie “Ice Water” Foster (15-2, 9 KOs), of Houston, TX, and undefeated heavyweight prospect Trey Lippe-Morrison (15-0, 15 KOs), of Tulsa, OK, will be in featured bouts from San Jose, Costa Rica, streamed live internationally on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports (8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT), as part of a stacked DiBella Entertainment Broadway Boxing event.

The card, held at the Gimnasio Nacional, is headlined by the highly anticipated homecoming of WBA Female Super Welterweight World Champion Hanna “La Amazona Black” Gabriels defending her title against undefeated challenger Abril Vidal (8-0, 3 KOs), of Neuquen, Argentina, scheduled for 10 rounds.

Following his final training session in the summer heat of Houston under the watchful eye of longtime trainer Bobby Benton, the 25-year-old Foster was excited to hit the ring again this Wednesday night against Jesus “Lightning” Bravo (19-1-1, 17 KOs), of Lima, Peru, competing for the WBA Fedecentro Super Featherweight Title in a 10-round contest.

“It’s a bit of a business trip, but I plan to make the most of it. I’ve never been to Costa Rica and I’m really looking forward to it,” said Foster, who returns to action following a third-round stoppage of Fatiou Fassinou on February 23, in Beaumont, TX.

“Ideally, after this fight, I’d like to challenge for a world title against any of the titleholders; Miguel Berchelt, Gervonta Davis, Tevin Farmer or Jamel Herring,” continued Foster, who is world ranked #10 by the World Boxing Council and holder of their Silver Super Featherweight Title. Foster seized the WBC Silver Title with a dominant victory against previously unbeaten Jon Fernandez on September 21, 2018.

Discussing his training camp for this fight, Foster stated, “I’m always in the gym, always learning. For this fight, it was about getting better each day, so when that world title opportunity comes, I’ll be ready. I sparred with Shakur Stevenson for this camp and we gave each other great work. We really pushed each other to become better with every round.”

The 24-year-old Bravo returns to battle following a second-round knockout of undefeated prospect Cesar Diaz on April 27, in Lima, Peru.

Trey Lippe-Morrison, the son of former heavyweight champion Tommy Morrison, has consistently turned heads since his pro debut with his show-stopping knockouts in all of his professional bouts. Fighting on Wednesday night in a scheduled eight-rounder, Lippe-Morrison will seek to keep his knockout streak intact against Pedro Martinez (10-1, 4 KOs), of Ciudad Bolivar, Venezuela. The upset-minded Martinez will look to rebound from his first defeat against Artem Suslenko on March 23, in Russia.

Lippe-Morrison has finished up his training camp with Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach in Hollywood, CA, and is excited for the fight and to be traveling outside of the US for the first time.

“It’s an exciting journey for me. Most of my fights have been in Oklahoma, so this is a special opportunity to fight in Costa Rica. This has been my fourth camp with Freddie and I’m becoming a better boxer each time, always learning different things, not just focusing on a specific opponent but becoming a more well-rounded fighter.”

Speaking of his impressive knockout streak, Lippe-Morrison said, “It looks great on paper and I’m glad to finish impressively, but I never go into a fight thinking of when or how I’m going to stop the other fighter. I just do my thing, break down my opponent and if there’s an opportunity to finish inside the distance, I take advantage of it.

“For now, it’s just one fight at a time, keep learning, keep getting better and knowing that at the appropriate time, we’ll make a big move.”

Rounding out the UFC FIGHT PASS streaming event in an eight-round super welterweight clash, Abram Martinez (6-0, 5 KOs), of Las Vegas, NV, clashes with Jorge Mendez (4-4-1, 3 KOs), of Escazu, Costa Rica. The 23-year-old Martinez hits the ring following a first-round knockout of Carlos Cruz on March 17.

 HOLLYWOOD, CALIF. (July 15, 2019) – For the third time in 12 months, boxing’s only eight-division world champion and boxer laureate Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao (61-7-2, 39 KOs) will be battling in a world championship fight.  Forget collecting on a pension, amazin’ Manny, 40, the reigning Fighter of the Decade, will be punching more than the clock this Saturday, when he tries to complete his world title hat trick, against undefeated WBA welterweight super champion Keith “One Time” Thurman (29-0, 22 KOs), from Clearwater, Florida, who is 10 years Manny’s junior.  The Pacquiao – Thurman welterweight world title attraction headlines a PBC on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View event, live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, beginning at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT.        

“Keith Thurman has it easy.  His only job is to train for this fight.  I have three jobs.  I am a fighter.  I am a public servant.  And on Saturday, I am going to be Keith Thurman’s teacher,” said Manny.  “I have heard everything he has said about me.  I have heard everything he has said he will do to me in the fight.  Those things he says about me do not make me angry.  They inspire me.  This has been the best training camp I have had in years.  Keith Thurman thinks he is going to retire me.  I am not ready to look back.  I am still looking forward.  Keith Thurman is going to be very surprised by what he sees from me in the ring.  He is going to leave the ring a very disappointed fighter.”             

            “It will be ‘One Time’ vs. All Time,” said Manny’s Hall of Fame trainer world-famous Freddie Roach.  “Thurman may be ten years younger but Manny still has extraordinary talent and an era’s worth of experience against Hall of Fame opposition.  The betting action on this fight reflects that.  I have done a lot of interviews.  All the media seem to be picking Thurman to win.  They consider this a battle between Generation X and Generation Geritol.  But we’re talking about Manny Pacquiao.  He pushed himself to the limit in this training camp.  Youth will be served a big slice of humble pie on Saturday night.”

**************************ABOUT PACQUIAO VS. THURMAN

Order the PPV and visit PremierBoxingChampions.com for Fight Night Info and more on Manny Pacquiao and Keith Thurman.

The Pacquiao-Thurman Premier Boxing Champions on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View begins at 9 p.m. ET/ 6 p.m. PT and will also feature undefeated former world champion Omar “El Panterita” Figueroa Jr. taking on Yordenis Ugás in a WBC welterweight title eliminator, plus hard-hitting former world champion Sergey Lipinets goes toe-to-toe against rugged veteran John “The Gladiator” Molina, Jr. and undefeated power-puncher Luis “Pantera” Nery faces slick-boxing Juan Carlos Payano in a bantamweight bout.

Promoted by MP Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions, remaining tickets for the event can be purchased online through AXS.com, charge by phone at 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resorts International box office.
 

For more information: 

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

LAS VEGAS, NV (July 15, 2019) – Undefeated lightweight contender, Devin “The Dream” Haney (22-0, 14 KOs), has returned to the gym after his sensational knockout over Antonio Moran, a fight that took place at the MGM National Harbor Hotel in Maryland on May 25, 2019.

Haney, no longer a prospect, is now ranked top ten by all four sanctioning bodies in the lightweight division and is currently WBC #2, WBO #,5 WBA #3 and #9 in the IBF. Beyond that, the bible of boxing, Ring Magazine, has Devin Haney #4 on their own list of the best lightweights in the world. This is no small feat for a boxer who is barely 20-years old. Haney is back in the gym as he awaits his next fight date.

“I’m back in the gym getting ready with an unofficial date in September,” stated Haney. “Ironically the WBC ordered a lightweight tournament to decide the mandatory for the winner of Loma vs Campbell. When Teofimo Lopez went the opposite direction, it made me and Zaur Abdulaev the final elimination bout. I’m also ranked #3 WBA and #5 WBO so my opportunity for a World Title is right around the corner. I took a well deserved break that I hadn’t taken since I began the sport. Now I’m recharged and ready to reap havoc on the lightweight division.”

“I’m looking forward to getting back in the ring,” Haney Continued. “My time is coming and I will be 100% ready to show the everyone that I’m ready for a world title shot.”

# # #

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

LAS VEGAS (July 15, 2019) – The predictions are in from around the boxing world and the expert group that was polled is nearly split 50-50, but overall gives eight-division champion Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao a slight edge over WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith “One Time” Thurman ahead of their Premier Boxing Champions on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View main event this Saturday from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

The tally was 24-to-19 for Pacquiao over Thurman, with three picking a draw. Pacquiao even has a chance to stop Thurman based on the picks of at least three former champions who participated in the poll, while two picked Thurman to end the night early. In addition, eight respondents believe the fight is so evenly-matched that it will end in a split-decision.

Here are the predictions from a mix of boxing legends, current and former champions and contenders, plus some of the most renowned trainers in the sport:

Thomas Hearns, former five-division champion

Pick: Pacquiao W 12. Manny Pacquiao has the better skills and the experience overall in comparison to Keith Thurman, and I see Manny winning a decision by just out-boxing him.

Deontay Wilder, WBC Heavyweight Champion

Pick: Thurman SD 12. I like both fighters and what they’ve been able to achieve. Manny Pacquiao’s a legend who still is among the world’s best fighters despite his age and having to overcome so many ups and downs. But I’m going with Keith Thurman on a split-decision in this one based on his youth and mentality. People are talking about Keith’s last fight against Josesito Lopez, but he feels like he’s the best, and that he’s not going to let anyone take that away from him.

Roy Jones Jr., Former Three-Division World Champion

Pick: Pacquiao W12: I’m going to go with Pacquiao because he’s the older and therefore more experienced fighter.

Errol Spence Jr., IBF Welterweight Champion

Pick: Thurman SD 12. It just depends on which Pacquiao shows up and which Keith shows up. I think Keith will be a lot sharper than he was in his last fight. You know he had a long layoff and is just coming back. Keith is a lot tougher than people think he is. He took a lot of punches in that last fight. He took a lot of punches in the Shawn Porter fight, too. He might be a boxer, but he’s tough and he’s gritty, so I think he’s going to win a split-decision or he’s going to blow him out. It just depends on which Pacquiao comes out. If he can turn the tables a little bit and become the Pacquiao of back then, I think he can win. But if it’s the Pacquiao that fought Broner, then I think Keith will edge him out and outpoint him. Keith can get on his bicycle and move around and just pot shot him. I think Keith will edge it out.

Sugar Ray Leonard, former five-division world champion

Pick: Thurman W 12. Keith Thurman has a ton of talent, power and speed. I like him to win.

Gerry Cooney, former heavyweight title contender

Pick: Pacquiao W 12. Manny Pacquiao’s been a phenom, but age has been creeping up on him. Thurman’s gonna try to box and use his power, and Manny’s been knocked out before. It’s a 50-50 fight, but I’m going with Pacquiao, who is really awkward and fast, to win a decision.

Shane Mosley, former three-division world champion

Pick: Pacquiao W 12. I think that Pacquiao is going to win because of the experience, the speed and his power.

Shawn Porter, WBC Welterweight Champion

Pick: Pacquiao W 12. I’m going with Manny Pacquiao, who still has the hunger, several levels of competitive spirit and quickness out of that southpaw stance that’s hard to game plan for. Keith Thurman’s young but coming off of a very long layoff and a level of relaxation and comfort that makes it difficult for me to see him being ready for this fight. I don’t think Keith’s body will be able to withstand what’s going to come during those championship rounds. Pacquiao weathers the early storm and wins a decision.

Andy Ruiz Jr., Unified Heavyweight World Champion

Pick: Pacquiao W 12. I’m going with Pacquiao because of his speed and aggressiveness.

Mikey Garcia, four-division world champion

Pick: Pacquiao W 12. Ultimately Manny’s footwork, hand-speed, combinations and volume punching will carry him throughout the rounds. Keith Thurman has the power to win it, and he’s very dangerous for that power, but he’s not a better fighter, overall, than Manny. I think Manny takes it.

Julian Williams, WBA & IBF 154-pound World Champion

Pick: Thurman SD 12. Manny’s always super-competitive and I believe we’ll see a hungrier and more determined Manny Pacquiao than the one who beat Adrien Broner. Manny may even be able to hurt Keith Thurman as he does everybody, but I believe Keith Thurman will have too much youth for him. Keith may not look great, but I’m going with Keith to win a close decision.

Derrick James, trainer of welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr. and former champion Jermell Charlo

Pick: Thurman W 12. I think Keith Thurman’s gonna beat Manny Pacquiao by a decision as long as he can do what he did for the first seven rounds against Josesito Lopez for 12 rounds against Pacquiao. Keith’s consistency will win the fight.

Leo Santa Cruz, WBA Featherweight World Champion

Pick: Thurman W 12: I feel that Keith Thurman is going to win because he’s younger.

Roberto Duran, former four-division world champion

Pick: Pacquiao W 12: Manny Pacquiao is very tough and for me, he is going to win this fight.

Robert Garcia, trainer of former four-division champion Mikey Garcia, contender Josesito Lopez

Pick: Thurman W 12. Keith Thurman is strong, solid and smart in the ring, and he has youth on his side, so I see him winning a unanimous decision. I would no doubt pick Manny Pacquiao if this was four or five years ago the way he was dominating, but with him being at the age of 40, that’s hard for me to do.

Paulie Malignaggi, former two-division champion

Pick: Thurman TKO 11. I saw Pacquiao in January beating Adrien Broner who was willing to enter the pocket but not let his hands go. Pacquiao is not a defensive genius, and I’m not saying that he’s super hittable. But I do see Keith catching up to him and winning by a late-round TKO.

Tony Harrison, WBC Super Welterweight Champion

Pick: Draw. I have so much love and respect for Manny Pacquiao and Keith Thurman and I’ve seen fire in each of their eyes. I am envisioning an action-packed, seesaw battle that enhances the legacies of both fighters with the fans getting their money’s worth. Manny’s been re-awakened into the beast he’s been in the past, and when the final bell rings, I believe this fight will end in a draw.

Jarrett Hurd, former unified 154-pound champion

Pick: Thurman W 12. I believe the youth of Keith Thurman will play a big factor. Yes, Thurman had a long layoff but I think he broke the ring rust after the Josesito Lopez fight.

Josesito Lopez, Former title challenger

Pick: Pacquiao SD 12. In our fight, Keith Thurman took a really hard punch from me that would have taken out almost anyone. That proves a lot about his championship ability to come back to win a fight. Thurman has great power and boxing skills and movement, but I still see Pacquiao pulling out a close decision victory.

Gary Russell Jr., WBC Featherweight Champion

Pick: Pacquiao W 12. Keith Thurman is probably the bigger, stronger fighter, which will give him the puncher’s chance, but I think Manny Pacquiao’s work ethic and his punch output will dictate the fight. I really like Keith Thurman, but I don’t know which Keith will show up. He has the ability to get Pacquiao outta there, but I see Pacquiao being more consistent. So, I think Manny’s gonna outwork him and take it.

Ronnie Shields, trainer of 160-pound champion Jermall Charlo, former 154-pound champion Erislandy Lara

Pick: Thurman W 12. Keith is fast on his feet and has enough boxing ability to keep Manny at bay. I don’t believe a KO will occur. I really believe they both will try for one, but in order for Manny to win, he has to hurt Keith early and often. I don’t see it any other way.

Jessie Vargas, former two-division champion

Pick: Pacquiao W 12. I’m going with Manny Pacquiao because of his experience and explosiveness and the fact that I believe that’s something Keith Thurman’s never seen before. A knockout for Pacquiao is 85% possible. Each is a great fighter who doesn’t back down.

Stephen Edwards, trainer of unified 154-pound champion Julian Williams

Pick: Draw. I can’t call this fight. I was picking Keith Thurman due to youth and not being the better fighter. I thought he would control Manny Pacquiao with a check hook. But Thurman has not looked right to me in the training footage. Maybe that’s a ploy. Who knows? One fighter is 40 and the other looks rusty. I expect a close and controversial draw.

Sergio Mora, former 154-pound champion

Pick: Thurman KO 9. Manny Pacquiao’s speed and footwork has diminished with age but he is still dangerous. Both will be aiming for the body and both will have their moments. Ultimately, I see Pac getting over aggressive and caught attempting to be great once again. Size and youth prevails in an exciting and competitive fight.

Andre Berto, former two-time 147-pound champion

Pick: Thurman W 12. I’m picking Keith Thurman to win a decision because he is younger, faster and stronger than Manny Pacquiao.

Omar Figueroa, former world champion

Pick: Pacquiao by KO 8. Keith Thurman is a really smart fighter, but he leaves himself open with some of his punches. I think Manny Pacquiao catches him with those short lefts and right hooks inside and possibly stops the fight in eight.

Robert Guerrero, former two-division champion

Pick: Pacquiao by late round KO. Manny’s experience, combined with this speed and power, hitting off angles, is going to be too much for Keith Thurman.

Jay Deas, trainer of WBC Heavyweight Champion Deontay Wilder

Pick: Thurman W 12. Can Manny Pacquiao spell bound Keith Thurman, building a lead and holding off a late-round Thurman rally to take a decision? I don’t think so with only one knockout since 2010. Thurman’s left hand will be a key if he can jab the southpaw Pacquiao effectively. If Thurman is intelligently aggressive, uses his left and starts and finishes the exchanges, I believe he will win a decision in an exciting fight.

Joel Diaz, renowned trainer

Pick: Pacquiao W 12. Keith Thurman didn’t look good against Josesito Lopez, who is a warrior but not on the level of a Manny Pacquiao. Pacquiao’s a lefty with great speed and footwork to create problems for Thurman. Thurman’s bigger, younger and stronger, but Pacquiao has the power to hurt Thurman with either hand. I see Pacquiao increasing the pace over the later rounds and winning a decision.

Abner Mares, former three-division champion

Pick: Thurman W 12. Everyone is going off Manny Pacquiao’s last performance, where he looked phenomenal against an Adrien Broner who didn’t throw a lot of punches and was on the ropes a lot. Pacquiao’s not fighting Broner but a Thurman who knows how to work every round. He got hurt against Josesito Lopez, but that was after a long layoff.

Erislandy Lara, former 154-pound champion

Pick: Pacquiao W 12. This is a true 50-50 fight and a great one for the boxing fans. Going off their last few performances, I’m leaning towards Manny “Pac-Man” Pacquiao to win a decision. But I wouldn’t be shocked to see Keith Thurman return to form.

Sergey Lipinets, former 140-pound champion

Pick: Draw. The fight looks like a 50-50 proposition. Manny Pacquiao is a way more diverse fighter then Keith Thurman. The big question would still be if Pacquiao has got any of that left or enough to maintain that through 12 rounds. I think we’ll see them fight to a draw.

Gary Russell Sr., father and trainer of 126-pound champion Gary Russell Jr.

Pick: Thurman W 12. Manny Pacquiao has a herky-jerky style that can cause problems for Keith Thurman, who I don’t think can out-box Pacquiao. Keith’s gonna have to be the more physical fighter, coming out as the stalker and going to the body. I think that ultimately that’s what he’s gonna do to win a decision.

David Benavidez, former 168-pound champion

Pick: Pacquiao by KO 9. I feel like Manny is going to have a hard time with Keith Thurman running around in the first few rounds. Then I expect “PacMan” to start hurting Thurman by Round five or six and then I see him stopping “One Time” around the ninth. It’s gonna be a great fight though.

Marcus Browne, interim WBA 175-pound champion

Pick: Thurman W 12. This is a great fight that’s tough to call, so to pick a draw wouldn’t be far-fetched. I’m a big Manny Pacquiao fan and he looked great in his last fight beating Adrien Broner. But Keith ain’t Adrien Broner, and I think he’ll overcome the ring absence since he appears to be in a zone. I’m going to choose Keith to win a close decision.

Ruben Guerrero, father and trainer of former two-division champion Robert Guerrero

Pick: Pacquiao SD 12. It’s going to be one hell of a fight, but Manny Pacquiao will win the later rounds to win a close one.

Luis Ortiz, heavyweight title contender

Pick: Pacquiao SD 12. Manny Pacquiao will win via decision. He has too much experience and has been active. Keith Thurman has been too inactive. I think it will probably be a split decision for Pacquiao.

Erickson Lubin, 154-pound title contender

Pick: Pacquiao SD 12. Manny Pacquiao’s southpaw style will confuse Keith Thurman. “Pacman” wins by split-decision with his power, speed and combination punching.

Austin Trout, former 154-pound champion

Pick: Thurman SD 12. I’m going to rock with my man Keith Thurman. People who are judging off his last fight don’t understand how much inactivity can play a role. Now that the rust is off, I expect Keith to pull it off. Keith is going to go above and beyond in what will be a 12-round fight that he’s gonna win by a split-decision.

Kevin Cunningham, trainer of Erickson Lubin

Pick: Pacquiao W 12. I’m gonna have to go with Manny Pacquiao on this one because he still has good speed, explosiveness, footwork and punches well in combinations. Keith Thurman may be looking to land something big, and he may be able to hurt Manny in some way, but I’m picking Manny by decision.

Jamal James,147-pound contender

Pick: Pacquiao W 12. Keith Thurman comes in with great skills, but I don’t see him beating Manny Pacquiao, who is a really crafty southpaw, is still quick on his feet, and throws fast, sharp combinations. I don’t think Keith can match Pacquiao’s hand-speed and footwork. I can’t rule out a knockout, but I think Pacquiao wins a decision.

Caleb Truax, former 168-pound champion

Pick: Pacquiao W 12. I think the smart pick is Keith Thurman, but I can’t bet against Manny Pacquiao. I have “PacMan” by close decision in a back and forth fight.

Calvin Ford, trainer of WBA 130-pound champion Gervonta Davis

Pick: Thurman W 12. Keith Thurman’s motivated to get his name back into the spotlight, but Manny Pacquiao looks as if he’s up to the challenge after beating Adrien Broner. Pacquiao throws a lot of punches, but I’m going with the younger guy on this one and Thurman winning a great fight by decision.

Andre Rozier, trainer of former 160-pound champion Daniel Jacobs

Pick: Thurman W 12. I have a tale of two fights for you. If we see the “One Time” Thurman of old, it will be a long night for the “PacMan.” If we see the tentative, super cautious Thurman that we have been seeing lately, the “PacMan” will have a chance.

Stephen Fulton, Unbeaten 122-pound contender

Pick: Pacquiao W 12. I see Manny Pacquiao winning a unanimous decision based on his activity and that fact that Keith Thurman has been inactive for a while. Pacquiao lets his hands go more than Thurman, and I believe that, as well as Pacquiao’s heart and being smarter in the ring, wins the fight.

Mario Barrios, undefeated 140-pound contender

Pick: Pacquiao W 12. I believe Manny’s going to be too crafty for Keith Thurman and Thurman won’t be able to land those big shots on him.

Total:
Pacquiao – 24
Thurman – 19
Draw – 3

ABOUT PACQUIAO VS. THURMAN
Order the PPV and visit PremierBoxingChampions.com for Fight Night Info and more on Manny Pacquiao and Keith Thurman.

Pacquiao vs. Thurman will pit boxing’s only eight-division world champion and Philippine Senator Manny “Pac Man” Pacquiao against undefeated WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith “One Time” Thurman in the main event of a Premier Boxing Champions on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View event Saturday, July 20 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will also feature undefeated former world champion Omar “El Panterita” Figueroa Jr. taking on Yordenis Ugás in a WBC welterweight title eliminator, plus hard-hitting former world champion Sergey Lipinets goes toe-to-toe against rugged veteran John “The Gladiator” Molina, Jr. and undefeated power-puncher Luis “Pantera” Nery faces slick-boxing Juan Carlos Payano in a bantamweight bout.

Tickets for the event are on sale now and can be purchased online through AXS.com, charge by phone at 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resorts International box office.

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

LOS ANGELES (July 15, 2019) — The soccer field will become a fistic battleground Saturday, August 17, as Jose Benavidez Jr. will battle former world champion Luis Collazo in a 10-round welterweight co-feature at Banc of California Stadium, the home of Major League Soccer’s Los Angeles FC.

In the other co-feature, WBO junior featherweight champion Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete will make the second defense of his title against the undefeated Francisco “Panchito” De Vaca.

Benavidez-Collazo and Navarrete-De Vaca will headline the inaugural fight card at the year-old stadium and will be televised live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. The undercard, including the returns of unbeaten super lightweight contender Arnold Barboza Jr., welterweight contender Chris van Heerden, undefeated middleweight sensation Janibek Alimkhanuly and featherweight Adam Lopez, will stream live on ESPN+ — the leading multi-sport streaming service — starting at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Zanfer Promotions and Iron Boy Promotions, tickets priced at $100, $80, $70, $60, $45 and $25 (not including applicable fees) go on sale Tuesday, July 16 at 10 a.m. PT and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 800-745-3000 and in person at the Banc of California Stadium box office.

“I am very focused, and I see this as a must-win fight,” Benavidez said. “Collazo has been in the game for a long time and is still a top fighter, but I am going to push him towards retirement. He looks good for his age, but trust me, youth will prevail when we fight.”

“I’m coming for everything they said I couldn’t have,” Collazo said. “Talk is cheap. I’m here to show that I’m still one of the top welterweights in the world.”

Benavidez (27-1, 18 KOs) is coming off his most notable performance to date, a spirited effort in a 12th-round TKO loss versus pound-for-pound great Terence Crawford in Crawford’s hometown of Omaha, Nebraska. Crawford-Benavidez was ESPN’s most-watched boxing event of 2018, and now, the Phoenix native has a chance to return to title contention with a victory over Collazo (39-7, 20 KOs). A native of Brooklyn, New York, Collazo held a piece of the welterweight title from 2005-2006 and has remained a top contender in the 13 years since he lost his belt via controversial decision to Ricky Hatton. Collazo has won three in a row since falling short in a title challenge to Keith Thurman, most recently edging Samuel Vargas by split decision on St. Patrick’s Day at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden.

Navarrete (27-1, 23 KOs) has won 22 consecutive bouts dating back to 2012, but his breakthrough came last December when he upset Isaac “Royal Storm” Dogboe via unanimous decision to win the WBO junior featherweight title. Five months later, in Tucson, Arizona, he repeated the deed, this time knocking out Dogboe in the 12th round. A native of San Juan Zitlaltepec, Mexico, Navarrete had a reported 108-7 record in the amateur ranks and comes from a family of fighters. His uncle, Pedro Navarrete Sr., and two of his cousins, Pedro Navarrete Jr. and Johnny Navarrete, fought as professionals.

De Vaca (20-0, 6 KOs) was born in Michoacán de Ocampo, Mexico, and moved to Phoenix, Arizona, as a small child. All but one of De Vaca’s pro fights have taken place in the Phoenix area, where he has developed into one of the region’s most popular attractions. The 24-year-old boxer-puncher made his Top Rank debut last August in Glendale, Arizona, outlasting Jesus Serrano by unanimous decision in a crowd-pleasing brawl. He last fought in February at the Celebrity Theater in Phoenix, where he shut out Ernesto Guerrero over eight rounds.

“This is a great opportunity to defend my title against an exciting fighter like De Vaca,” Navarrete said. “I’ve worked hard to prove myself as a true champion, and I won’t let anyone take that away from me. It’s going to be a great night outside in Los Angeles, and whenever you have two Mexicans in the ring, you can expect a battle.”

“This is the fight of my life,” De Vaca said. “I am going to show my Mexican heart and prove to the world that I belong on the world stage. I’m not going to talk any trash. I have a lot of respect for Emanuel Navarrete, but his reign will end on August 17.”

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

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

About Banc of California Stadium

Located in the heart of Los Angeles in Exposition Park, Banc of California Stadium is the first open-air stadium built in Los Angeles since Dodger Stadium in 1962. Home to the Los Angeles Football Club, the stadium is a $370 million, state-of-the-art, world-class venue specifically designed to present all types of star-studded live entertainment and creates an unparalleled fan experience for music, sports, and more. At a capacity of 23,500 for concerts (22,000 for soccer), the venue’s unique “outdoor arena” design provides for an intimate experience with excellent sightlines of the stage from every seat and superior quality sound throughout the house. Banc of California Stadium sits atop the hallowed grounds of the former Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena, which hosted some of the most legendary music artists of all time — befitting its history, the new stadium continues the tradition of hosting the very best in live entertainment. For more information, visit www.bancofcaliforniastadium.com.

Queens, N.Y. – Ronson Frank’s Uprising Promotions and The New Mexican Promotion returned on Friday night with another exciting slate of boxing, presenting a seven-bout card to an energetic audience at Club Amazura in Queens, New York.

“It was another great night of boxing for Uprising Promotions and the New Mexican Promotion here at Club Amazura,” said Rory Frank, Vice President of Uprising Promotions. “This show had a nice mix of everything. The fights were competitive, and we also saw some exciting knockouts. We want to thank all of the fighters, coaches and fans who brought the energy to make it such an entertaining night.”

In the showcase bout of the evening, featherweight Titus Williams (9-2, 4 KOs) needed less than a round to dispose of Aaron Echeveste Lopez (6-4, 3 KOs). Despite the action lasting less than three minutes, the right-handed Williams put on a very impressive display of well-timed counter punching while holding court in the center of the ring.

About a minute into the opening frame, Lopez looked to flash inside of Williams, only to see the New York native unload a perfectly timed counter right uppercut that immediately flattened his opposition. Lopez got back to his feet, and Williams displayed patience as he methodically stalked his man while looking for another opening. He soon found it just before the close of the opening frame, as Lopez stepped into a beautifully timed counter right hand that put him on his back for a second time.

Lopez did once again climb to his feet, but referee Steve Willis did not like what he saw when he looked into his eyes. He opted to wave off the bout so Lopez did not receive any more damage, with the official stoppage coming at 2:54 of the very first round.

In the co-feature of the evening, bantamweight Ariel Lopez (13-0, 8 KOs) had a game opponent in Ivan Martino Jiminez (5-4, 5 KOs), but he was able to break him down over the course of four frames before getting a deserved stoppage. Lopez continually showed off some quick hands while picking his spots, also throwing hooks around the tightly worn guard of Jiminez to get inside.

Midway through the fourth round, Lopez unleashed a body shot directly to the solar plexus of Jiminez that put him on the floor in obvious pain. Although it looked like Jiminez would be unable to continue, he somehow worked his way back onto his feet. When action resumed, Lopez intelligently returned to the body, backing up a hurt Jiminez until the referee stoppage came at the 1:53 mark of the fourth frame.

In a 143-pound catchweight bout, Cesar Francis (6-0, 4 KOs) engaged in an entertaining six-round scrap with Antonio Sanchez Hernandez (6-7-2, 3 KOs). Francis was able to use his height and length advantage in the early frames, but Hernandez adjusted and slipped well throughout the encounter to force Francis to fight on the inside. While Hernandez was certainly a game opponent, Francis proved that he was on a more elevated level in this one to eventually pick up the well-earned victory.

When the six action rounds concluded, Francis increased the tally on his unblemished record with scores of 60-54 (twice) and 59-55.

Mathew Gonzalez (9-0, 6 KOs) also improved his unbeaten mark on Friday night, making quick work of veteran Federico Jesus Malespina (16-13-2, 2 KOs) in less than one frame. Gonzalez showed off his quickness and ability to pivot in the little time he was allotted before unloading a fight-ending right hook to the body of Malespina. A 10-count was delivered after the vicious blow, officially ending this one 73 seconds after it started.

In his pro debut, Brooklyn welterweight Raymond Wilburg (1-0, 1 KO) engaged in an action-packed first round with Jean Hernandez (0-2) that saw both fighters giving and taking. In the second frame, Wilburg quickly settled in comfortably and started firing some heavy punches with both hands. His powerful strikes were repeatedly finding a home, and this bout was forced to be waved off just 27 seconds into that second round. The stoppage sent the hometown fans into an uproar, making it a successful debut for Wilburg.

In a cruiserweight attraction, Jan Czerklewicz (2-0, 0 KOs) was able to outwork Mike Diorio (0-2) over four frames, moving well and using his length to score flush 40-36 scorecards from the ringside judges.

In the opening fight of the evening, Brooklyn middleweight Hosam Abdeldayem (1-0, 0 KOs) and Daniel Jefferson (0-1) engaged in a competitive four-framer that saw scores all over the place once it concluded. However, it was Abdeldayem who earned his first professional win when the judges turned in those final tallies. The first card was read 39-37 for Jefferson, but that count was nullified with scores of 39-37 and 38-37 in favor of Abdeldayem on the final pair of cards.

Miss the action? Watch the full fight card now via Fight Night Live on Facebook, with Michael Woods and Xavier Porter calling the action from ringside.

Next up for Uprising Promotions is the promotional debut of undefeated heavyweight Vladimir Tereshkin (20-0-1, 10 KOs), who take on Williams Ocando (21-8, 17 KOs) on Saturday night at the Ambassador Theatre in Kingston, Jamaica.

Keep it locked to UprisingPromotions.com and @UprisingNYC for all of the latest information from Uprising Promotions.

Boston, Massachusetts (July 12th, 2019):

In the first ever ticketed event at Encore Boston Harbor, the brand new 2.6 billion dollar resort casino located on Boston’s waterfront, a sold out crowd of 2,300 fans watched hometown hero, Greg Vendetti (22-3-1, 12 KOs) score a shutout unanimous decision over Newark, New Jersey’s Michael Anderson (17-3-1, 12 KOs) to capture the IBA Junior Middleweight World Championship.

Entering the ring to “The Imperial March” aka Darth Vader’s theme song, Vendetti took a cue from the Sith Lord and began a non stop pressure onslaught that Anderson had no answer for at any point in the 12 round fight.

‘The Villain’ continually backed Anderson to the ropes and unleashed a steady torrent of combinations averaging close to 100 punches per round. Vendetti never slowed down, putting on a near flawless performance that saw a bloody and swollen Anderson hold on desperately throughout the fight.

Vendetti’s performance was so dominant that one judge gave him two 10-8 rounds despite no knockdowns in the fight for a final scorecard tally of 120-108 x2 and 120-106.

The Stoneham, Massachusetts native was his usual blunt self in his post fight interview to the delight of the chanting crowd.

“I just love to fight.”, said the new IBA Junior Middleweight Champion who is considering a move down to welterweight.

Whether it’s in the main event of a sold out ballroom for a title or whether I’m alone in a room with another man and two rusty machetes. It’s all the same to me. It’s a fight. I’m ready to die in there and that’s what makes the difference.”

“This was probably one of Vendetti’s best performances. Look at the scorecards. 120-106 is something you don’t see too often.”, said Murphys Boxing founder and Vendetti’s promoter, Ken Casey.

“He’s just relentless. He’s constantly coming forward. Then he’s the type of kid that when he’s done throwing punches in bunches, he gets on the mic and says all the right things. He’s really turning into a star in the area. Sold out venue. Main event. Fighting 12 rounds. Doesn’t phase him at all. The better the competition is, the more rounds he goes, the more pressure he’s under, the better he seems to be. We’re looking to get him back in the ring as soon as possible.”
In the 6 round junior welterweight co-main event Venezuelan Olympian and recent Murphys Boxing signee, Luis Arcon Diaz (8-0, 8 KOs) dominated Argentina’s Mario Lozano (18-4-1, 9 KOs) before scoring a brutal knockout in third round. In what was supposed to Diaz’s toughest fight to date, the 27 year old’s speed and power overwhelmed his opponent from the get go finally stopping him with a face first on the canvas highlight reel knockout.

Dublin’s Lawrence Fryers (11-1, 4 KOs), who was set to face Ray Moylette in a highly anticipated all Irish junior welterweight showdown until visa issues earlier this week left Moylette unable to enter the United States, suffered a major scare in the first round before stopping last minute replacement Bryan Abraham (6-34-1, 6 KOs) by second knockout. Seconds into the fight Abraham caught Fryers with a massive overhand right sending him to the canvas. Fryers beat the count on shaky legs and Abraham charged in and dropped Fryers to his knees for a second knockdown. The heavy handed veteran tried to finish off the New York based Irishman but somehow he survived the onslaught. Clearing his head between rounds, Fryers roared out of the corner at the start of the second and fired off a straight right that badly hurt Abraham who froze and slumped over the ropes, causing the referee to wave off the contest to the roar of the sold out crowd.

In a surprising upset, Carlos Hernandez (4-3-1, 2 KOs) handed local favorite Mike Ohan Jr. (9-1, 5 KOs) his first loss by way of majority decision with scores of 57-57, 58-56 and 59-55. In an incredibly close contest that could have went either way, Hernandez didn’t let the partisan crowd or Ohan Jr.’s undefeated record intimidate him and the Connecticut welterweight fought a gutsy toe to toe performance that earned him a razor thin victory in the 6 round welterweight bout.

Boston based amateur standout, James Perella (4-0, 3 KOs) went the distance for the first time in his young career winning a shutout unanimous decision over crafty MMA veteran, Bryan Goldsby (5-12) with identical scores of 40-35 x3. The popular young welterweight is off to a fast and furious start having 4 fights in only 4 months and against the elusive Goldsby got in some much needed rounds of professional experience.

Soft spoken South Boston favorite, Joe Farina (7-1, 4 KOs) continued his busy 2019 in ring campaign picking up his third win of the year over the near 25 year veteran Jose Angel Ortiz (5-14-1, 2 KOs) with a 4 round unanimous decision in the welterweight division with scores of 39-36 x2 and 40-35. Farina kept Ortiz on the ropes for virtually the entire fight and dropped Ortiz once in the third round.

Opening up the event, Belgium’s Antoine Vanackere (11-1, 6 KOs) made his American debut a successful one, dropping and stopping the always game Mexican veteran, Francisco Medel (13-20, 8 KOs) in the third round of a scheduled 6 round junior welterweight bout.

The phenomenal turn out of 2,300 people, with hundreds more turned away at the door, was enough for Murphys Boxing and Encore Boston Harbor to announce at the end of the night an immediate return event on August 23rd.

“It was a very special night.”, explained Casey after the show.

“To be the first ever ticketed event at a brand new resort casino that hasn’t even been open for month and to sell the place out with a local fighter in the main event, was an amazing experience and a historic night. We want to keep the momentum going and we’ll be back next month with another stacked card. We’re thankful to everyone who supported the event tonight. Boston is truly becoming one of the hotbeds of boxing in the United States and with Encore, Murphys Boxing now has the perfect venue to showcase that.”

UPCOMING MURPHYS BOXING EVENTS

8/17 – SPRINGFIELD, MA. – MGM SPRINGFIELD
8/23 – BOSTON, MA. – ENCORE BOSTON HARBOR
9/7 – MARSHFIELD, MA. – SOUTH SHORE SHAMROCK FEST

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, Abraham Nova, Charles Foster, Greg Vendetti, Gary ‘Spike’ O’Sullivan and prospects like Niall Kennedy, Carlos Gongora, William Foster III, Mike Ohan Jr., Luis Arcon Diaz and more!

For more information visit: www.murphysboxing.com

To speak with any of the fighters on our roster or to request credentials to any upcoming events – drop us a line at info@murphysboxing.com and we will hook it up.

Follow Murphys Boxing on Social Media!

Jermain Franklin Jr. remained undefeated with a 10-round split decision over Jerry Forrest in a heavyweight bout at the Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington.

It seemed that Forrest may have landed the better shots and deserved the nod, but two judges ruled in favor of Franklin by 97-93 tallies, while Forrest took a card 96-95.

Franklin, 240 1/4 lbs of Saginaw, MI is 19-0. Forrest, 222 3/4 lbs of Newport News, is 25-3.

“I didn’t think it was that close,” said Franklin, widely regarded as the top American heavyweight prospect who was the 2014 National Golden Gloves Champion. “I won more rounds. I think you could give him a couple rounds, but it wasn’t that close. Even when they said split decision I knew it wasn’t that close. I wasn’t worried.”

“My big chance on SHOWTIME was well deserved and I proved I belong in this league,” Forrest said. “I said before the fight that I have already been doing this for years. Now more people know about it. My people knew what was up already.”

Giovanni Cabrera Mioletti remained undefeated by pounding out a 10-round unanimous decision over Luis Porozo in a junior lightweight bout.

Mioletti, 129 1/2 lbs of Seattle, WA won by scores of 98-92 twice and 97-93, and is now 17-0. Porozo, 129 1/2 lbs of Santo Domingo, ECU is 14-1.

“It took me a couple rounds to relax,” said Cabrera Mioletti, who was fighting in Tacoma for the 11^th time in 17 career bouts. “My whole strategy was to stay relaxed, but in the first couple rounds, the cameras got to me a bit. But once I started getting my rhythm and working my jab, I started to take control.”

“I didn’t feel his punches, but I felt his head,” said Cabrera Mioletti, who was born in Seattle but currently lives in Chicago. “That guy has a head like a rock. He butted me a bunch of times and that’s what cut open my eye, but I don’t think about that I just focused on what I had to do.

“I started to hear him breathing heavily when I’d hit him to the body, not even that hard and that’s when I knew he wanted to fight a much slower pace. Once my jab started landing a lot, I knew I had him.”

Porozo said he simply ran out of gas in the later stages of the fight. “I lost because I moved too much and didn’t throw enough punches,” said Porozo, who had more than 500 amateur fights. “I give him credit. I felt some of his power shots. I was winning for the first five rounds. After that I got tired. I feel bad. I’m very disappointed. I could have done so much more.”

STATEMENT FROM SALITA PROMOTIONS REGARDING OTTO WALLIN vs. B.J. FLORES HEAVYWEIGHT FIGHT

”As part of the licensing process in the state of Washington, the doctor appointed by the boxing commission to oversee tonight’s event reviewed medical tests and determined that B.J. Flores would not be medically cleared to compete. Based on that opinion, Washington State Department of Licensing spokesperson Gigi Zenk notified Salita Promotions this afternoon that they would not issue B.J. Flores a license to fight against Otto Wallin tonight.  Due to medical privacy requirements we are unable to provide further information at this time.”

STATEMENT FROM WASHINGTON STATE DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING SPOKESPERSON GIGI ZENK:

“Benjamin Flores was not medically cleared to compete.”

Tonight on the un-televised undercard of the SHOWTIME televised “Battle at the Boat 122” at the Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington, cruiserweight contender Constantin Bejenaru (14-0, 4 KOs) got back to business after a year and a half away by pounding out a sixth-round TKO (time 2:02) over Mexican veteran Jose Corral.
The southpaw Bejenaru looked sharp and won every minute of the fight with his crisp, fast hands and excellent work to the head and body.
“It felt good to be back,” said Bejenaru, “I’m happy that I’m back in the title hunt and in good shape. After a year and a half, I felt a little rusty for a little bit in the beginning, but I came back pretty quick.”
Bejenaru says he’d have liked to go the full eight-round distance but did enough to know he won’t be needing another tune-up fight before getting back in the mix.
“I am ready for a big fight next. I kept myself in good shape the whole time I was away. I wasn’t sure if I needed one or two tune-up fights, but I felt really good in the ring. Thank you to my opponent for lasting as long as he did and thank you to my team and my new promoter. I’m hoping for a title fight as soon as possible.”
Bejenaru, from Ungheni, in the Republic of Moldova and now living in Brooklyn, is a former 10-time Romanian champion, a Bronze Medalist at the European Amateur Boxing Championships in 2006, a Finalist in the European Union Championships in both 2006 and 2007, and a Gold Medalist at World Combat Games in 2010.
After turning professional in 2012, Bejenaru has gone on to score wide decision victories on ShoBox: The New Generation over previously undefeated Alexey Zubov (10-0, 6 KOs) and Stivens Bujaj (16-0-1, 11 KOs), and in his most recent fight (broadcast on NESN), a decisive points victory over previous world title challenger Thabiso Mchunu (18-3, 11 KOs).
In his seven-year career, he has held both the WBC Continental Americas Cruiserweight Title and the WBC International Cruiserweight Championships.
“We hoped he might have to go all eight rounds to make him breathe and to make him feel the ring,” said trainer Ilia Masishchev, “but once he lands a few punches, he tries to finish. That’s how he is.”
Battle at the Boat 122 is presented by Salita Promotions and Brian Halquist Productions.

ESPN (10:30 p.m. ET)

Shakur Stevenson 126 lbs vs. Alberto Guevara 125.4 lbs
(Stevenson’s NABO featherweight title – 10 Rounds)

    Joshua Greer Jr. 117.4 lbs vs. Nikolai Potapov 117.4 lbs
(IBF bantamweight eliminator for No. 2 ranking  – 12 Rounds)

ESPN+ (7 p.m. ET)

        Josue Vargas 141.8 lbs vs. Manuel Lopez 142.4 lbs
(Welterweight – 8 Rounds)

     Vito Mielnicki Jr. 146 lbs vs. Tamarcus Smith 139 lbs
(Welterweight – 4 Rounds)

John Bauza 138.2 lbs vs. Angel Sarinana 137 lbs
(Super Lightweight – 8 Rounds)

     Julian Rodriguez 140.8 lbs vs. Hevinson Herrera 140 lbs
(Super Lightweight – 6 Rounds)

Vijender Singh 169 lbs vs. Mike Snider 168.6 lbs
(Super Middleweight – 8 Rounds)

   Joseph Adorno 134.8 lbs Adriano Ramirez 134.4 lbs
(Lightweight – 8 Rounds)
 Promoted by Top Rank, tickets priced at $100, $75, $50 and $25 (not including applicable fees) are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 800-745-3000 and in person at the Prudential Center box office.

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

Use the hashtags #StevensonGuevara and #GreerPotapov to join the conversation on social media.

NEW YORK – July 12, 2019 – Undefeated super middleweight prospect Vladimir Shishkin will make his ShoBox: The New Generation debut against the streaking DeAndre Ware on Friday, August 23 live on SHOWTIME from Main Street in Broken Arrow, Okla.

Shishkin (8-0, 5 KOs) is a fast-rising 168-pound prospect from Russia who has secured a top-10 rating in the WBC and top-15 position in the WBA in just eight fights. The 27-year-old will make his U.S. and national television debut in a 10-round showdown with Ware (13-1-2, 8 KOs), an all-action fighter who is coming off a career-best win over then-undefeated Ronald Ellis in February on ShoBox.

The outdoor event is promoted by Salita Promotions in association with Tony Holden Productions. 

“Vladimir Shishkin, after only eight professional fights, is the best new face in the super middleweight division,” said promoter Dmitriy Salita.  “He is facing a very tough, skilled and accomplished DeAndre Ware in what I expect will be a very competitive fight and the type of test Vladimir needs to show his world-class abilities.”

The 6-foot-1 Shishkin was a standout amateur in Russia, compiling 301 wins in 330 fights before turning professional in 2016.  He has won his last three contests – all scheduled 10 or 12 round fights –via knockout, including a career-best 10^th round TKO of former world title challenger Nadjib Mohammedi in his last bout in October of 2018.  Now aligned with Salita and training in Detroit under Javan “Sugar” Hill Steward at the new Kronk Gym, Shishkin looks to make a statement in his U.S. debut and prove he has what it takes to compete in the wide open super middleweight division.

“I can’t wait to get in the ring and show the U.S. fans what I am all about,” said Shishkin.  “DeAndre Ware is strong and spirited, but not technically equipped to handle me.  I know that I may be unknown to a lot of fans in America, but on August 23 I’ll win them over with my skills, power and exciting style.”

The 31-year-old Ware will look to hand another undefeated fighter his first professional defeat on ShoBox. The Toledo native was the aggressor against the favored Ellis last February, winning via majority decision to make Ellis the 185^th fighter to lose their unbeaten record on the long-running series.  A 2013 National Golden Gloves Bronze Medalist, Ellis also owns a win over 2012 Olympian and previously undefeated prospect Enrique Collazo.  A former collegiate football player at the University of Toledo, Ware works fulltime as a firefighter in his hometown of Toledo and expects to use similar tactics from his victory over Ellis.

“Shishkin is a good fighter, I respect him just like any fighter that steps in the ring with me, but when the fight starts he’ll be another obstacle in my way,” Ware said.  “Fans can expect nothing but excitement come fight night.  As you saw in the Ellis fight, I’m here to win and I’m here to fight. ShoBox has given me the opportunity to showcase my talent multiple times and now I have these titles to show for it.  I look forward to putting my talents on display once again as I work towards my first world title shot.”

The full televised undercard will be announced in the near future.

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

ANTHONY YARDE WILL challenge long-standing world champion Sergey Kovalev for his WBO World Light Heavyweight championship in Chelyabinsk, Russia on August 24. The fight will be broadcast live and exclusive in the UK on BT Sport.

Yarde, 18-0 with 17 Kos, has again accepted the delayed mission of heading into the home nation of the world champion known as Krusher in order to fulfil the first part of his dream of holding multiple world title belts and ruling the division for years to come.

The 27-year-old now gets the opportunity to take on the most experienced and formidable of the current world champions, with the 36-year-old having clocked up 28 Kos from his 33 wins. Kovalev has operated in world title competition since parting Nathan Cleverly from his WBO belt in August 2013 in Cardiff.

“This is my time now and I am going to show the world what I am all about,” said the challenger, the self-styled Beast from the East of London. “Waiting for my time to come around could have been a frustration but we turned it into a positive and I am even more ready to seize the moment.

“Everything has fallen perfectly into place for me, this will be my coronation as world champion and I am going to realise my dream by beating the most decorated of the current world title holders.

“I am more than happy to achieve my goal in Russia and I think it is only right that a great world champion such as Kovalev is given the opportunity to defend in his home country. He has earned that right.

“What I know is that on August 24 another world title belt will be under British ownership and I will have done it the hard way, one that nobody will be able to question.

“My promoter and my manager have made all the right moves to get me into this position and I thank Frank Warren and Tunde Ajayi for creating this opportunity for me. They have done their part and it is now up to me to deliver.”

Frank Warren said the self-belief of his light heavyweight star was the key to accepting a mandatory challenge on away territory.

“It is a fantastic opportunity for Anthony and he has earned his shot by working his way to the No.1 spot in the rankings,” said the promoter. “He has showed what he is all about by being prepared to go into Kovalev’s back yard and it demonstrates the confidence he has in his own ability.

“Everybody knows Kovalev is a tremendous puncher and a fearsome presence in the ring. It is something we first saw over here when he fought Nathan Cleverly and he has continued to operate at the very highest level.

“Anthony possesses tremendous self-belief and we back him to come away with the spoils but, whatever does happen in the fight, it is one that he will take a lot of valuable experience from.”

Yarde’s trainer-manager Tunde Ajayi added: “We’re here now! It’s been stage by stage, it’s been calculated and everything is timing, which I have said from the start.

“The time is now and we are about to shock the world. I cannot remember a fighter with so little experience going over to another man’s back yard to take on a great champion, so I don’t want to hear any excuses when Anthony knocks him out.

“I know that is going to happen.”

Former world title challenger Martin Murray won a 10-round decision over Rui Manuel Pavanito in a super middleweight bout.

Murray won by a 99-92 score and is now 38-5-1. Pavanito is 10-9-1.

Gerard Carroll remained undefeated with a decision over Jordan Ellison in a super lightweight fight.

Carroll won by 58-56 tally and is now 11-0. Ellison is 11-23-1.

Natasha Jonas stopped Bec Connolly in round four of their scheduled six-round lightweight bout.

Jonas dropped Connolly twice in the first 20 seconds of the contest.

Jonas continued to pound away at Connolly until a couple of hard boy shots forced a referee stoppage at 1:07.

Jonas, 135.8 lbs of Liverpool is 8-1 with six knockouts. Connolly, 131.8 lbs is 2-6.

Former world champion Terry Flanagan stopped Jonas Segu in five round of a scheduled eight-round junior welterweight bout.

In round one, Flanagan dropped Segu with a crisp 1-2 combination. In round five, a straight left sent Segu down for the count at 1:25.

Flanagan, 139 lbs of Manchester, ENG is 34-2 with 14 knockouts. Segu of Tanzania is 19-9-2.

The Heavyweight title eliminator between Dillian Whyte and Oscar Rivas for the number one spot in the WBC will be streamed live in all DAZN markets on Saturday, July 20, from The O2 in London. DAZN is available across four continents with the service available in the United States, Canada, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, Japan and Brazil.

Whyte (25-1 18 KOs) holds the number one slot with the WBC and puts that on the line as the hard-hitting ‘Body Snatcher’ continues to blast his path to a World title shot. The Brixton banger put Derek Chisora away in devastating style in his last outing, the pair thrilling the Greenwich crowd in their rematch in December – before icing Del Boy in the 11th round.

The 31-year-old Briton will be gunning for a tenth straight win against Rivas, with wins over Joseph Parker, Robert Helenius and Lucas Browne sandwiched between his two wins over Chisora. Whyte has become a must-watch fighter since rocking old foe Anthony Joshua in their battle at The O2 in December 2012, and yet again takes on a high-risk challenge as he cements his spot as the leading Heavyweight contender in the world.

Rivas (26-0 18 KOs) is yet another dangerous challenger for Whyte to risk his number one rankings with, and the Colombian comes into the bout on the back of his biggest win in the paid ranks. Rivas traveled to Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York in January and KO’d former World title challenger Bryant Jennings in the final round of their clash, underlining his dangerous potential to World titlists and fellow contenders.

In the United States, action will begin on DAZN at 1:00 p.m. ET with the full six-fight Matchroom Boxing undercard from The O2 in London.

Promoter Eddie Hearn said: “This is a huge night of Heavyweight boxing and I’m excited that DAZN subscribers will get to watch it live. Dillian Whyte, who has proved himself as one on the best Heavyweights on the planet, takes on the relentless and unbeaten Oscar Rivas who is coming off a brutal KO of Bryant Jennings. Brit Derek Chisora faces off against Poland’s Artur Szpilka and crowd favourite Dave Allen tackles David Price in a big domestic shootout. Tune in and don’t miss it!”