HOUSTON (June 11, 2019) – Houston-native Miguel Flores will return to the ring to fight in his hometown against Mexico’s Luis May Saturday, June 29 in a 10-round super featherweight fight that highlights an action packed night of undercard attractions from NRG Arena in Houston.

The event is headlined by another Houston-native, unbeaten WBC Interim Middleweight Champion Jermall Charlo, who will face middleweight contender Brandon Adams in the main event live on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT).

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through Ticketmaster. Charlo vs. Adams is promoted in association with Banner Promotions and The Tournament of Contenders.

Undercard bouts also feature unbeaten Brownsville, Texas-native Omar Juárez in a four-round welterweight attraction against Pennsylvania’s Seifullah Wise, undefeated Mycheal Teal of St. Petersburg, Florida taking on Mark Beuke for a four-round middleweight affair and unbeaten San Antonio-native Raymond Guajardo facing Compton, California’s Jaime Meza in a four-round middleweight fight.

Rounding out the action is undefeated Weslaco, Texas-native César Cantústepping in for a four-round super featherweight clash against North Carolina’s Chante Bowens, a six-round lightweight bout between McAllen, Texas-native Nelson Hampton and West Virginia’s Dakota Linger and the pro debut of Zamy Larry in a four-round super middleweight showdown versus North Carolina’s Carlos Umanzor.

Born in Michoacan de Ocampo, Mexico and living in Houston, Flores (23-2, 11 KOs) will return to the ring for the first time since April 2018, when he stopped Raul Chirino in two rounds. The 26-year-old was scheduled to challenge Leo Santa Cruz for his featherweight world title in February before suffering an ankle injury in training. He looks to get one step closer to regaining a title opportunity when he faces the 35-year-old May (21-14-1, 8 KOs) from Yucatan, Mexico.

# # #

ABOUT CHARLO VS. ADAMS
Charlo vs. Adams will pit unbeaten WBC Interim Middleweight Champion and Houston-native Jermall Charlo against middleweight contender Brandon Adams in Charlo’s hometown return Saturday, June 29 live on SHOWTIME from NRG Arena in Houston and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXINGbegins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features hard-hitting super welterweight Erickson “Hammer” Lubin taking on French contender Zakaria Attou in a 12-round WBC title elimination bout in the co-main event. Opening the telecast is a WBA featherweight title eliminator between slick Mexican southpaw Eduardo Ramirez and power-punching Dominican Claudio Marrero.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.

Kal Yafai will defend his WBA World Super-Flyweight title against Norbelto Jimenez on Saturday June 29 at the Dunkin’ Donuts Center in Providence, Rhode Island, live on DAZN in the US and on Sky Sports in the UK.
**TICKETS FOR ANDRADE VS. SULECKI ARE ON SALE NOW – CLICK HERE**
Yafai (25-0 15 KOs) puts his title on the line for the fifth time and the Birmingham star returns to action following a points win over Israel Gonzalez in Monte Carlo in November. The unbeaten champion makes his second appearance on American soil after forcing David Carmona to retire after dominating the Mexican over seven rounds.

Yafai’s next obstacle in the way of the unification bouts he desires comes in the shape of mandatory challenger Jimenez (29-8-4 16 KOs), the Dominican man is unbeaten in 30 fights after turning his career around from early defeats, and the 28 year old will fight for the WBA belt for the second time having drawn against previous champion Kohei Kono back in 2014.

“I’m very excited to be back in action,” said Kal Yafai, who turns 30 today. “After my last fight I’ve got to go out there and win and look good doing so.

“He’s obviously going to be a good fighter because he’s my mandatory. I know he boxed for the World title nearly four and a half years ago against Kono and he drew in Japan. Since then he hasn’t really boxed fighters of a high calibre. It’s a long time to box guys at that level and then step up and fight someone like me. I’m looking to show everyone that I’m one of the finest World champions out there and make my mark in America.

“I fought in America last year and we all thought we were going to fight Jerwin Ancajas afterwards, the IBF Champion, but they didn’t seem to be up for it at all. It’s been a bit frustrating at times, and I had a hand injury earlier this year. After my last fight, and especially the performance, it’s given me that hunger to want it even more, to stay at the top and get those big fights. I think at times I’ve got a bit complacent, before my last fight, and that’s completely changed for this one so I’ll be at my game 100 per cent.

“It was a disappointing night for me in Monte Carlo. I didn’t perform how I’d normally like to perform. Everyone can see that that wasn’t myself in there that night but like I said on the night, I don’t like to make excuses. I get in the ring and I fight, and when I get in the ring to fight I should beat them up, at my best, and if I’m not at my best I shouldn’t be in the ring fighting. There’s a few things that I could have done better, but I’ve rectified all of my issues that I had going into that fight and hopefully I can show that it was just an off night in my last fight.”

“I want to say thank you for the opportunity to Team Yafai because they waited until the WBA ordered the fight and I became a mandatory challenger,” said Norbelto Jimenez. “I feel like they are underestimating me, and that make me happy because it motivates me every day much more. I thank Bélgica Peña of Shuan Boxing for the great support of many years, and also thanks to Golden Boy who is allowing me to be part of their family.

“It has been a long wait after fighting to a draw in Japan in my first world title opportunity. And now I just want to say that on June 29, the Dominican Republic will have a new world champion, and his name is Norbelto “Meneito” Jiménez.”

“This is a big fight for Kal, especially in light of what lays ahead,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “If he can beat Jimenez on June 29, it’s very likely his next fight will be a unification with pound for pound star Juan Estrada, so he must get the job done in Providence. It’s amazing that he now stands as Britain’s longest reigning World champion and we are expecting a top class display on a huge night of boxing.

Yafai’s clash with Jimenez is part of a blockbuster night of action in Providence as hometown hero Demetrius Andrade defends his WBO World Middleweight title against Poland’s Maciej Sulecki, while former Heavyweight world ruler Joseph Parker fights for the first time under his new deal with Matchroom Boxing USA.

Tickets are on sale NOW – with tickets starting at just $28 (including fees) from https://www1.ticketmaster.com/event/010056AAED7788D1?brand=dunkindonuts&camefrom=cfc_dd_center_boxing19_web

BENSALEM, PA- Xcite Fight Night 4 is fast approaching and the action-packed card at Parx Casino® is quickly taking shape. Also quickly rising are the careers of two Philadelphia-based boxers in Daiyaan Butt (3-0 1K0) and Tyhler Williams (2-0 2K0s). They are looking to continue their success in the ring, and at Xcite Fight Night.

The eight-fight card, set for Saturday, June 15th, is headlined by Philadelphia’s own Miguel Cartagena, who returns to the Xcite Center to face off against Jesus Solar. The semifinal bout is an all Philly contest between lightweights Jerome Conquest and Frank Trader with the USBF Continental title on the line. First fight is at 7 p.m.

Butt is enjoying a busy first year in the ring. Starting last June in his pro debut, Butt has shown his skills as a long, athletic welterweight. He’s reeled off three wins and earned his first stoppage in March at Parx Casino®. The busy schedule is exactly what Butt wants.

“I fight and I came back to the gym the next day. I love being in the gym,” Butt said. He trains out of TKO Fitness in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, the home of IBF world super featherweight champion Tevin Farmer.

Though he was born in LA, he’s spent most of his life in Philadelphia and is excited about the opportunity to start his boxing career in the area.

“I love it because I can build my own fan base in the Philadelphia area,” Butt said. “The more and more I grow, and more success that I have, I’ll have a strong fan base when I eventually come back and fight in a big fight, I’m going to have the whole crowd with me.”

Williams, a welterweight, also aspires of leaving Parx Casino with another win under his belt. He’ll face the same opponent as Butt did in his previous outing, a game newcomer in Tyree Arnold (0-1)

Williams is a young southpaw, and has quickly racked up two wins. He stopped Nyrome Lynch at Xcite Fight Night 3 and did the same the next month to Abdiel Padilla. He’s shown incredibly quick hands and knockout power.

The 2017 Mid-Atlantic Boxing Association national champion is looking to build off of his strong amateur background and a powerful start to his professional journey.

“I’ve been to Jr. Olympics, Silver gloves, getting around and fighting people gives you a different mindset,” Williams said.

The Philadelphia native has done his training at Rock Ministry for the last nine years, and is happy to be staying home to start his career.

“It means a lot to me – it’s everything,” Williams said. “I’ve got a big fan base. I love being able to have everybody come out and watch me fight. It’s good to be set up at home.”

Williams said his goals for the fight are simple. “Be sharper, smarter and stronger.”

ABOUT JUNE 15

The June 15 card will consist of seven fights, beginning at 7:00 p.m. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. The card is promoted by Joe Hand Promotions. This event is only for adults age 21 and older. Tickets priced at $50, $75 and $100 are on sale at Joe Hand Promotions (215-364-9000). You can also purchase tickets from the Hold My Ticket Call Center at (1-877-466-3404) and at www.parxcasino.com

ABOUT PARX CASINO®

Parx Casino® is owned and operated by Greenwood Racing, Inc. Parx Casino® is conveniently located 20 minutes north of center city Philadelphia, I-95 exit 37 or PA Turnpike exit 351 (westbound), exit 352 (eastbound) onto Street Road in Bensalem. Parx features over 200,000 square feet of gaming; over 3,300 slot machines and 133 live table games; a private poker enclave with over 80 poker tables; live racing & simulcast action; Parxgrill, an upscale signature restaurant; Liberty Bell Gastropub, farm-to-fork inspired menu; Foodies quick service dining; Chickie’s & Pete’s Crab House and Sports Bar; 360 bar and live music venue; Jax sports bar; Circle Bar; Bambu Noodle House; Earl of Sandwich®; Xlounge, ultramodern luxury lounge; the Xcite Center, an over 1,500-seat live entertainment venue and complimentary parking for 5,000 cars. For more information on Parx Casino®, visit www.parxcasino.com.

Italy’s fast-rising Cruiserweight star Fabio Turchi will make the first defence of his WBC International title against Tommy McCarthy at the Stadio Nicola Pietrangeli in Rome on Thursday July 11, live on DAZN.

Turchi (17-0, 13 KOs) blitzed Finland’s Sami Enbom in one round to land the WBC title at the Tuscany Hall in Florence in April. The ‘Stone Crusher’ lived up to his nickname by flattening Enbom 74 seconds into the opening round with a devastating left hook to the body. 

It was the southpaw’s second consecutive stoppage victory after he dominated and halted former Commonwealth Champion Tony Conquest to retain his WBC International Silver title in November, and the 25-year-old hopes that another early finish will put him within touching distance of a shot at World honours. 

McCarthy (14-2, 7 KOs) was stopped in the fourth round of his WBA Inter-Continental title clash with heavy-hitting Londoner Richard Riakporhe in Peterborough earlier this year but the Commonwealth Games silver medallist returned to winning ways with a third round KO win in his native Belfast last month.

Elsewhere on a big night of title action, Rome’s former World title challenger Emanuele Blandamura (29-3, 5 KOs) returns following his win over Nikola Matic in April to take on Manchester’s Marcus Morrison (20-3, 14 KOs) for the vacant WBC International Silver Middleweight crown and Serhiy ‘Sergio’ Demchenko (21-14-1, 14 KOs) clashes with former French Light-Heavyweight Champion Hakim Zoulikha (26-10, 11 KOs) for the vacant European Union title.

Some of the best talent the city has to offer feature on the undercard with slots for undefeated former European and WBC Silver Lightweight ruler Emiliano Marsili (37-0-1, 15 KOs), Super-Welterweight Mirko Natalizi (5-0, 3 KOs), Super-Lightweight Sebastian Mendizabal (2-0), Cruiserweight Simone Federici (14-2-1, 6 KOs), Super-Welterweight Vincenzo Bevilacqua (14-0) and the professional debut of 2016 Olympian Valentino Manfredonia at Light-Heavyweight. 

Eddie Hearn, Managing Director of Matchroom Boxing said: “Fabio Turchi is quickly establishing himself as the new poster boy for Italian boxing and on July 11 at the Stadio Nicola Pietrangeli in Rome he can take another step towards a shot at the Cruiserweight World title. I’m excited to be involved in my first promotion in Rome after the overwhelming success of our opening shows in Florence and Milan with our friends at Opi Since 82 and DAZN.”

Salvatore Cherchi, President OPI Since 82 said: “We are delighted to return to Rome for the latest instalment of our exciting partnership with our friends at Matchroom Boxing and DAZN at the beautiful Stadio Nicola Pietrangeli. Boxing fans are in for a treat on July 11 with three important championship fights at the top of the bill and a host of local talent on the undercard. This will be a brilliant night of boxing and one not to be missed!”

“After the success of the events in Milan and Florence, we are proud to land in the capital, in one of the most evocative sports locations in the world, with another evening dedicated to the great international boxing,” affirms Veronica Diquattro, Executive EVP Southern Europe of DAZN. “Over the last months, we have worked hard to bring more people closer to this discipline and the event in Rome confirms our desire to continue on this path and keep giving to all fans moments of incredible emotion.”

Full ticket details will be announced soon. 

Murat Gassiev will make his long-awaited Heavyweight debut against Joey Dawejko on Saturday July 29 at College Park Center in Arlington, Texas, live on DAZN in the US and on Sky Sports in the UK.

Gassiev has made the move up to join the big guns following an impressive run at Cruiserweight where his reign as IBF champion began when he ripped the title from Denis Lebedev in December 2012 and then stopping Krzystof Wlodarczyk and WBA champion Yuniel Dorticos in thrilling fashion to reach the final of the World Boxing Super Series.

The former unified champion 25 year old met Oleksandr Usyk in the finale to the WBSS in an blockbuster clash for the undisputed title in July where the Ukrainian travelled to Gassiev’s Moscow backyard and beat the hometown favorite. The California based Russian follows Usyk to Heavyweight after signing a co-promotional agreement with Matchroom Boxing USA, Ural Boxing Promotion and Warriors Boxing.

Dawejko promises to provide a stiff examination of Gassiev’s credentials at Heavyweight, with the Philly man coming into the bout having nearly shocked Gassiev’s fellow countryman Sergiy Kuzmin in Verona, New York in March. Dawejko – who turns 29 tomorrow (June 11) – faces his third Russian foe in a row having taken Andrey Fedesov the ten round distance in October in Ekaterinburg, and Gassiev is eager to impress when he steps back into the ring after a year’s absence.

“I just want to fight – I need big fights,” said Gassiev. “I haven’t boxed for a year. I am only 25 years old so I have time but I want to be in big fights.

“The most important thing for me is to be in shape and fit. I feel good up at Heavyweight in the gym, I don’t feel heavy, so I am excited to settle into the weight.

“I sparred with Heavyweights all through my time at Cruiserweight and it was good for me, but sparring is different. I think that the time is right to move up though and I’m very motivated.”

“This is a very solid Heavyweight debut for Murat and a big risk as his first fight,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “Joey is always competitor against the top Heavyweights, most recently against Russia’s Sergei Kuzmin in a fight that could have gone either way. This is an intriguing fight on what will be an outstanding night of boxing headlined by a potential fight of the year contender in Hooker vs Ramirez.”

Gassiev’s Heavyweight debut against Dawejko is part of a huge night of World championship action in Texas, headlined by the mouthwatering Super-Lightweight unification battle between Dallas’ WBO king Maurice Hooker and California’s WBC ruler Jose Ramirez.

Tickets go on pre-sale on Wednesday, with general sale starting on Friday.

LAS VEGAS (June 10, 2019) – Exciting welterweight Ryan “Cowboy” Karl competes in an eight-round bout while unbeaten Leduan Barthelemy will take on Mexico’s Jose Cayetano in an eight-round lightweight fight as part of an exciting undercard lineup Sunday, June 23 from Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas.

The event is headlined by former champion Jermell Charlo battling Mexico’s Jorge Cota in a super welterweight attraction that serves as the main event of FOX PBC Fight Night on FOX and FOX Deportes (8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT).

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

The card also includes a pair of Houston-natives as Marquis Taylor (10-1, 10 KOs) takes on Garden Grove, California’s Lucas Santa Maria (9-1, 7 KOs) in an eight-round welterweight fight and Quinton Randall (2-0, 1 KO) faces Milwaukee’s Kewone Hill (2-0, 2 KOs).

Also stepping into the ring are a pair of unbeaten welterweights as Los Angeles-native Emmanuel Medina (16-0, 9 KOs) takes on The Bronx’s Peter Dobson (10-0, 6 KOs) in an eight-round bout, plus unbeaten lightweight Julian Rodarte (16-0-1, 7 KOs) will fight in an eight-round attraction and Mexico’s Jose Valenzuela (3-0, 1 KO) will look to remain unbeaten in a four-round lightweight battle.

A 27-year-old from Houston, Karl (16-2, 10 KOs) avenged a loss to Kevin Watts in his last fight by stopping him in the fifth round of their January rematch. Karl had put together back-to-back wins before the pair of fights against Watts.

The younger brother of two-division champion Rances and Olympic gold medalist Yan, Barthelemy (14-0-1, 7 KOs) most recently out pointed Miguel Aispuro in March after a draw in September against unbeaten Eduardo Ramirez. The 29-year-old from Cuba now lives and trains in Las Vegas as he prepares to face the 32-year-old Cayetano (21-6, 10 KOs) from Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico.

# # #

ABOUT CHARLO VS. COTA
Charlo vs. Cota pits former super welterweight world champion Jermell Charlo against Mexico’s Jorge Cota in a super welterweight attraction that serves as the main event of FOX PBC Fight Night on FOX and FOX Deportes Sunday, June 23 from Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas.

FOX PBC Fight Night coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features former world champions Guillermo Rigondeaux and Julio Ceja clashing in a 12-round WBC featherweight title eliminator in the co-feature, plus sensational unbeaten prospect Joey Spencer faces Akeem Black in a six-round super welterweight bout.

Preceding that show is FOX PBC Fight Night Prelims beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and will see exciting unbeaten prospect Chris Colbert taking on Puerto Rico’s Alberto Mercado in an eight or 10-round lightweight bout and unbeaten welterweight prospect Jesús Ramos in a four-round attraction.

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

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions, @MayweatherPromo, @MandalayBay 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.

Jack Massey has questioned Lawrence Okolie’s hunger ahead of their British and Commonwealth Cruiserweight title showdown at Manchester Arena on Saturday July 6, shown live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US. 

Okolie had previously admitted that his heart was telling him to take a leap up in levels to fight WBA World Champion Dennis Lebedev in his next fight, but talk of the shock World title fight fell away after the Hackney man teamed up with new trainer Shane McGuigan. 

Massey has been vocal in his pursuit of 2016 Olympian Okolie and the undefeated 26-year-old from Chapel-en-le-Frith is promising to shine after finally landing his first major title opportunity on the big stage. A win over Okolie would propel him to the top of the domestic Cruiserweight pile and ‘One Smack’ believes his title shot has come at the perfect time.

“We’ve wanted this fight for a long time so when I got my opportunity, I grabbed it with both f****** hands,” said Massey. “I’ve seen a few people knocking me for getting a shot at the belts but it’s time to let everyone know who I am. If they don’t know who I am now, then they definitely will after this fight. This is my time to shine. 

“I’ve been in the gym since my last fight in March so we’ve had great preparation for this. I’m always in the gym grinding away, you’ve got to be ready for these opportunities when they present themselves. You never know what’s going to come up and I’ve got my chance on July 6. 

“There’s no doubt that he’s had better opposition than me. This is a big step up for me but I’m ready for it. We’ve had a bit of back and forth on social media but it’s just banter isn’t it. He says that I’ve been giving him sh*t on Twitter but it’s important to remember he was the first one to do it. He was calling me out after his third fight.

“I’ve got it all to gain here. To me, it seems like he doesn’t like getting hit and he won’t like it when I connect with him. I don’t think he’s ever has been hit as hard as I hit in a fight. They’re looking past me a bit definitely. I’m hungry and I’m on my way up. He’s had the big fights and got a bit of money in his pocket and I’m still driving a Fiat Punto about. He had his eyes on other fights but I’m hungry for this and I’m ready to go.

“I’ve only gone eight rounds once and that’s it. I’ve done six rounds a few times. I don’t think it’s going to go the distance though. I’m looking to put it on him. I think I’ll be too explosive for him when I let them hands go. There’ll be punches in bunches and I’ll let them hands fly. I’m going to be smart about it and take my time to find those little pockets and openings. As the rounds go by I’ll get on the inside and work him.”

Okolie vs. Massey is part of a huge night of boxing in Manchester where Scott Fitzgerald (13-0, 9 KOs) defends his WBA International Super-Welterweight title against former World title challenger Brian Rose (31-5-1, 8 KOs) in a huge Preston vs. Blackpool Lancashire derby, Felix Cash (11-0, 7 KOs) defends his Commonwealth Middleweight crown against Bolton’s Jack Cullen (16-1, 7 KOs) and Anthony Fowler (9-1, 8 KOs) returns after his first pro defeat and Sheffield amateur star Dalton Smith looks to improve to 2-0 , with more exciting additions to the card to follow.

Tickets priced £40, £60, £100 and £200 (VIP) are available to purchase now via StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk), Manchester Arena via ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.co.uk) and Matchroom Boxing (www.matchroomboxing.com).

NEWARK, N.J. (June 10, 2019) — Shakur Stevenson, born and raised in Newark, New Jersey, and closing in on a world title shot, is coming home. Stevenson, a 2016 U.S. Olympic silver medalist and the WBO No. 1 featherweight contender, will face fellow unbeaten Hairon Socarras in the 10-round main event Saturday, July 13 at Prudential Center, home of the NHL’s New Jersey Devils.

In the co-feature, fast-rising bantamweight contender Joshua Greer Jr. will face Nikolai Potapov in an IBF eliminator for the organization’s No. 2 ranking.

Stevenson-Socarras and Greer-Potapov will be televised live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes beginning at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT.

The entire undercard will stream live on ESPN+ — the leading multi-sport streaming service — starting at 7 p.m. ET. 2008 Olympic bronze medalist Vijender Singh (10-0, 7 KOs), India’s most prominent professional boxer and the only Olympic boxing medalist in his nation’s history, will make his long-awaited return on the undercard in an eight-round super middleweight bout. Singh’s countryman, top super welterweight prospect Vikas “The Indian Tank” Krishan (2-0, 1 KO), will see action in a six-rounder.

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets priced at $100, $75, $50 and $25 (not including applicable fees) go on sale Tuesday, June 11 at 10 a.m. ET and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 800-745-3000 and in person at the Prudential Center box office starting Wednesday, June 12 at 11 a.m. ET.

“Newark, I’m coming home! I’ve wanted to fight at Prudential Center since my pro debut, and the time has finally come,” Stevenson said. “I haven’t fought in Newark in over four years, and I promise it will be worth the wait. On July 13, I’m going to show the ESPN audience and Hairon Socarras what Brick City is all about. Socarras is an undefeated fighter, but he has never been in the ring with anyone like me. This is my first main event, and my hometown fans are going to see the best Shakur Stevenson yet.”

“I am so excited to be on such a big stage,” Socarras said. “I am looking forward to fight night. This is what boxing is about. I will bring my ‘A’ game and give it my all. I have a surprise for Shakur. I have the utmost respect for my opponent until the bell rings. Although my mother isn’t here on earth any longer, I want to thank her for all the great years she gave me, and this one’s for her. Thank you to ESPN for this platform, and Top Rank for giving me a shot at their top prospect. I’m coming to win.”

“I’ve been ready for these types of fights. I’ve been perfecting my craft every day, and I’m ready to put on a great show,” Greer said. “I’m going to continue to be Mr. ESPN, and watch out, I have something special planned for everyone who tunes in. Potapov looks like my toughest fight on paper, but he’s an average fighter. I’m going to show that there are levels to this game. He will be exposed because I am on a different level. I’m the best fighter he ever fought.”

Stevenson (11-0, 6 KOs) returned from the 2016 Rio Olympics as one of the sport’s most highly touted prospects. He graduated from prospect to contender status in 2018, knocking out longtime contender Viorel Simion in one round as the ESPN-televised co-feature to the Terence Crawford-Jose Benavidez fight in Omaha, Nebraska. Stevenson shined on the Crawford-Amir Khan pay-per-view undercard April 20 at Madison Square Garden, dominating former world title challenger Christopher Diaz over 10 rounds.

Socarras (22-0-3, 14 KOs), who moved from Cuba to Miami at the age of 11, is an eight-year pro who is taking a massive step up in competition against Stevenson. A 5-foot-6 boxer-puncher who has competed as high as lightweight, he is 6-0 with three knockouts since the start of 2018, most recently knocking out Jesus Martinez in five rounds on May 10 in Hollywood, Florida.

Greer (20-1-1, 12 KOs) has emerged as one of the bantamweight division’s hardest punches, as he’s riding a seven-bout knockout streak dating back to early 2017. The Chicago native will be making his second consecutive ESPN appearance. Last time out, Feb. 15 in Hinckley, Minnesota, Greer got up off the deck in the third round to stop Giovanni Escaner in the eighth. Potapov (20-1-1, 11 KOs) has won three in a row since a TKO defeat to longtime flyweight and junior bantamweight world champion Omar Narvaez. Potapov was last seen on American airwaves in March 2017 when he edged Antonio Nieves by split decision. On that same card, Greer debuted his famed “Night Night” pillow celebration following his one-punch knockout over James Smith. Greer, whose pillows have become more elaborate with each passing fight, is having a special one designed for his New Jersey debut.

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

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

There is no denying Houston, Texas is a fight town.

George Foreman, Wilford Scypion, Renaldo Snipes, Reggie Johnson, and Juan Diaz all called “The Space City” home.

Today, Jermall and Jermell Charlo continue H-Town’s storied boxing tradition, and boxing gyms across the city are loaded with world class champions, prospects, and trainers.

Jesse Garcia (7-0, 4 KOs), a 23-year old, 130-pound prospect who trains out of Main Street Boxing Gym, is planning on becoming Houston’s next world champion. In pursuing that goal. Garcia has signed with Double V Boxing Management.

“This next stage of my boxing career is very important,” said Garcia. “I took my time and wanted to make sure I made the right decision. I am confident that Vic Wainstein and Vinny Scolpino can guide me and my team all the way to the world title. I can’t wait for the journey.”

Garcia is co-trained by veterans Bobby Benton and Aaron Navarro. The duo is making a lot of noise out of Main Street Boxing Gym and currently trains world champion Regis Prograis and ranked contenders Miguel Flores, O’Shaquie Foster, and Darwin Price. Navarro believes Garcia can be next.

“Jesse is an extremely trainable kid. He is always in the gym and just wants to learn and get better. He does everything we ask. We just needed the right people to guide his career, and we are confident we have that,” said Navarro.

Double V’s Scolpino and Wainstein could not be happier with the signing.

“When I formed my partnership with Vinny, one of the first things I did was call long-time friend Aaron Navarro,” said Wainstein. “I asked Aaron if he had any gems for me and he told me to take a look at Jesse. After watching some film and getting to know the young man as a person, I was sold. I can’t wait to get to work!”

Garcia looks to get back in the ring in July. Now that he has found the right management team, the search will begin for an experienced promoter. Jesse Garcia is one to keep an eye on.

Interested boxers, trainers, and advisers can contact Vinny Scolpino at (201) 394-5026 or Victor Wainstein at (305) 308-4238 to find out more about Double V Boxing Management and all potential management opportunities.

RICKY HATTON believes Nathan Gorman has the ring IQ to make sure KO King Daniel Dubois is catching fresh air with most of his punches when the heavyweight giants collide.

The emerging youngsters meet for the vacant British title at The O2, London on Saturday July 13.

Former two-weight world champion Hatton is now making his name as a trainer.

Nantwich’s Gorman (16-0, 11KOS) is his latest star turn and likely to be heading towards would glory if he defeats Dubois (11-0, 10KOS).

Hatton said:  “You have to take the opportunities when they come along and this is the right fight for my lad.

“It has happened a little bit sooner that we thought and I think I can speak for both teams when I say that.

“We know we’ve got a tough task. Look at the size of Daniel, but I think my lad has more in his armoury and that’s why I accepted it.

“I think my lad is gonna win. I think Nathan has the ability to win – the speed, the boxing brain, the movement. With his speed and movement he will make Dubois miss.

“We will have to use that speed and movement to make him miss, but if you make him miss and then hit him with tap-tap punches Daniel will keep on coming.

“So, what we’re working on is the oldest saying in boxing; ‘Make him miss, make him pay and hit him with bad intentions.’

“Daniel isn’t the most elusive and can get hit. I think if Nathan comes back with mean intentions which is what we’re working on I only see it going one way and that is my lad wins.”

Tickets for ‘Heavy Duty’ featuring Daniel Dubois v Nathan Gorman for the vacant British Heavyweight Title, plus Olympic silver medallist Joe Joyce v Bryant Jennings are on sale now. The show also features British Middleweight Champion Liam Williams, super flyweight sensation Sunny Edwards and super featherweight contender Archie Sharp. Also returning after an impressive debut is Kent bantamweight Dennis McCann. Hamza Sheeraz, Mark Chamberlain, Jake Pettitt, Louie Lynn, Mickey Burke Jr and Florian Marku add to an exciting line up and tickets are available via AXS.com, Eventim and Ticketmaster and are priced as below:
 
£300 – (Hospitality)
£200 – Floor
£150 – Floor
£100 – Tier/Floor
£75 – Floor/Tier
£50 – Tier
£40 – Tier

NEW YORK (June 10, 2019) –Split-T Management young stars, Charles Conwell and Brian Ceballo gained the biggest wins of their careers with very impressive performances this past Saturday night as part of the Gennady Golovkin – Steve Rolls undercard at Madison Square Garden.
2016 U.S. Olympian Charles Conwell remained perfect with a 10-round unanimous decision over Courtney Pennington to win the USBA Junior Middleweight championship.    

In round two, the 21 year-old Conwell hurt Pennington with a left hook. In round six, Conwell continued to batter Pennington as he landed a hard combination along the ropes that featured a solid left hook and flush right.  In round eight, Pennington suffered a cut over his right eye from a left-right combination from Conwell.  In round ten, he stunned Pennington again with a right hand.

Conwell, 153.4 lbs of Cleveland won by scores of 97-92 twice and 96-93, and is now 10-0. Pennington, 152 lbs of Brooklyn is 12-4-3.

“I’m very happy with my performance. Pennington was a tough fighter, but we got the victory,” said Conwell. “Now it’s back to the gym to continue learning and growing as a fighter. It was an honor to fight at Madison Square Garden for the first time. Thanks to my promoter Lou DiBella for bringing me here and I hope to return in the near future.”  

Conwell is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Holden Promotions.
Five-time New York Golden Gloves winner Brian Ceballo turned in the best performance of his career and took an eight-round unanimous decision of Bakhtiyar Eyubov in welterweight contest.

Ceballo landed hard jabs and string right hands from the opening bell. .  Ceballo was very accurate with his shots.  The 25 year-old Ceballo looked very sharp as he landed crisp power shots in between Eyubov’s wild attempts to inflict on the Brooklyn native.  Ceballo continued to land sweet combinations that befuddled Eyubov.  In round eight, Ceballo hurt Eyubov was a nice body shot.  The two battled toe-to-toe down the stretch with Ceballo landing more, as he busted up Eyubov’s face with flush shots that thrilled Ceballo’s hometown crowd at The Garden.  

Ceballo of Brooklyn NY won by scores of 80-72, 79-73 and 78-74 to raise his perfect mark to 9-0. Eyubov of Kazakhstan is 14-1-1.  

Ceballo will now be looked up as one of the best prospects in the welterweight division with the win over the acclaimed Eyubov.
“We did what we had to do to win tonight. He was a tough opponent. We knew that. We took this step up. We had another opponent lined up and (promoter) Tom Loeffler said “If you want to be on this card, you have to take this bout.” We did not even hesitate. We said if it’s on DAZN, its on the biggest platform, it’s time to showcase our skills, and I think we did that tonight,” said Ceballo.
“We have a big amateur pedigree. I had 219 amateur fights, and I fought all over the world, and we jumped on this opportunity because it was right on all angles. We needed a bigger step up then our last opponent where we got a 3rd round stoppage. We said this is the platform to do it here at the Mecca of Boxing Madison Square Garden and on DAZN. We work so hard in the gym on how to take shots. We are here for the long run. We have to sit back and talk to our team. Weather we take another step up.”
Ceballo is promoted by 360 Promotions.

JOSH WARRINGTON is unimpressed by Kid Galahad in the build-up to this week’s big world featherweight title showdown.

Warrington makes the second defence of his IBF crown when he faces Galahad at the First Direct Arena, Leeds on Saturday night.

The champion is bristling with fury because mandatory challenger, Galahad (26-0, 15KOs) – whose real name is Barry Awad – is doing most of his talking on social media during the build-up.

The Sheffield man recently teased Leeds United fan Warrington over his side’s failure in the Championship Play-off against Derby County.

Warrington, 28, snapped: “I’m looking forward to sorting Barry out. He has talked a lot in the media and social media, but doesn’t say much when we go head-to-head on that front.

“The way he has gone about it during the build-up has been a bit cringey. He is in for hard night.

“I don’t know if he is trying to use a certain persona or be a certain character to get to me.”

Warrington (28-0, 6 KOs) will be making the second defence of his crown. He took the belt from Lee Selby last May and came through a war against Carl Frampton in December.

He claims to have seen a change in Galahad since his epic win against Selby in front of 25,000 fans at Elland Road.

“I have known Barry from the amateur days,” recalled Warrington who defeated Galahad twice when they were amateurs.

“I can even remember speaking to him at the Boxing Writers’ Club dinner in 2014 when we both nominated for young fighter of the year and he was right as rain.

“Over the last year this different person has come out, by disrespecting myself and other fighters in the division like Frampton.

“If he is trying to get under my skin it isn’t working and almost laughable, but it has given me more motivation to do a number.”

Josh Warrington tops the bill at First Direct Arena, Leeds when he defends his IBF featherweight championship against Kid Galahad on Saturday June 15.
Leading super featherweights Zelfa Barrett and Lyon Woodstock meet in a hotly anticipated clash for the Commonwealth title, with Jason Welborn and JJ Metcalf also vying for the vacant Commonwealth super welterweight championship.

Other fighters confirmed in action on the bill so far include Lyndon Arthur, Alex Dickinson, Tommy Fury, Mark Heffron, Jack McGann and Troy Williamson.

Tickets for Warrington v Galahad are available via Ticketmaster and are priced as below:

£450 – Hospitality
£300 – Floor
£200 – Floor
£150 – Floor
£100 – Floor/Tier
£75 – Tier
£50 – Tier
£40 – Tier

Despite many rumors that Zab Judah was in a coma, he is in fact awake and in a Syracuse area hospital following a brain bleed following his 11th round stoppage loss to Cletus Seldin this past Friday night at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

“[Judah is] awake, communicating with his family and doctors and making progress,” Star Boxing promoter Joe DeGuardia told ESPN. “Beyond that his family is requesting privacy at this time about his medical condition.”

DeGuardia said because it had been such a brutal fight “we had Zab go the hospital to get checked. It was a high-volume fight, not a minute to breath kind of fight. Cletus was all over Zab for almost the entire fight. Zab really dug down and showed his champion’s heart.”

“I saw him at about 2:30 in the morning. He was with his family having food at the diner in the hotel and I was with my staff there. I talked to Zab for about 10 or 15 minutes. We talked about the fight, how he had a great career and how it’s time [to retire]. He agreed. He said he had a good career and accomplished a lot and that he was proud of the fight he fought against Cletus. He seemed fine. I went upstairs, but later at the diner he wasn’t good and went back to the hospital.

“We’re all pulling for him. In boxing it’s all a fraternity but with Judah and his father (and trainer Yoel Judah) I go back 30 years with them so it hits home.”

Las Vegas ­– UFC^® today announced that the classic 2009 fight between season one winner of The Ultimate Fighter^® Diego Sanchez and former Strikeforce^® lightweight champion Clay Guida will be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame’s ‘Fight Wing’ as a part of the class of 2019. The 2019 UFC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, presented by Toyo Tires^®, will take place on Friday, July 5, at The Pearl at the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas. Tickets can be purchased via Ticketmaster. The event will be streamed live and exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS^® starting at 7 p.m. PT. 

“There are certain guys that when you match them up, there’s no doubt in your mind that it’s going to be a good fight, and this was one of those fights,” UFC President Dana White said. “This fight represents everything that fans around the world love about UFC and the sport of mixed martial arts. Diego and Clay are two maniacs and as soon as the fight began, they both came out blasting each other, it was crazy! This was an absolute war and both guys gave everything they had for all three rounds. This fight was so good it was named the 2009 Fight of the Year. It is one of the best displays of heart, endurance and will to win that you will ever see. Congratulations to Diego Sanchez and Clay Guida on a fight that will always be remembered as one of the best ever!” 

As the main event of The Ultimate Fighter^®: United States vs. United Kingdom Finale, which took place on Saturday, June 20, 2009, at the Pearl at the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, both athletes entered the highly-anticipated matchup on three-fight winning streaks.

Sanchez entered the Octagon^® with an impressive 22-2 record that included victories over former WEC^® welterweight champions Nick Diaz and Karo Parisyan, former WEC^® middleweight champion Joe Riggs and 2007 Strikeforce middleweight grand prix champion Jorge Santiago.

“The fight with Guida was really fun,” said Sanchez. “My mentality was that it was time to get street on this wrestler and that’s exactly what I did!”

Guida arrived at the Palms with a 25-6 record and wins over season five winner of The Ultimate Fighter^® and current UFC welterweight Nate Diaz, season six winner of The Ultimate Fighter^® Mac Danzig and former Strikeforce lightweight champion Josh Thomson.

“When you take a rampaging beast like Diego Sanchez, and a wild Tasmanian devil like me, you get a recipe for Fight of the Year, and that’s what we gave UFC fans that night,” said Guida. “The fans were the true winners and they deserved it more than anyone. Thank you for inducting this prolific battle into the UFC Hall of Fame! On behalf of my team, family, and friends that helped us prepare for that fight, we are truly honored!” 

Known for their intense personalities and tenacious fighting styles, both athletes ignited the crowd with their pre-fight antics and met in the center of the Octagon following introductions for an epic staredown that would be an indicator of things to come over the next three rounds.   

Sanchez quickly advanced to Guida’s side of the Octagon as the fight began and both athletes stood toe to toe exchanging punches until Diego connected on a right uppercut that almost floored Clay ten seconds into the first round. Sanchez continued his attack with a barrage of flying knees and punches as Guida covered up in an attempt to regain his footing. A third flying knee by Sanchez sent Guida’s mouthpiece out of his mouth and onto the canvas, as he moved to avoid Diego’s punches.

Sanchez continued as the aggressor, bombarding Guida with flying knees, uppercuts and jabs until Clay was able to secure his first takedown, directly into full guard, 69 seconds into the fight. Now with the advantage, Guida began landing a series of elbows while pushing Sanchez into the side of the Octagon as Diego, now bleeding, feverishly scrambled to get up off the canvas. Sanchez was able to shake Guida off as both fighters stood up at the 2:20 mark of the round.

Referee Josh Rosenthal immediately stopped the action to allow Clay to go to his corner and secure his mouthguard before fighting resumed at the center of the Octagon. Both fighters circled the center of the canvas for nine seconds until Sanchez connected on a left head kick that floored Guida, allowing Diego to resume his attack. Sanchez would take Clay down into side control with 37 seconds remaining, maintaining control for the remainder of one of the most explosive rounds in UFC history. At the conclusion of the round, both fighters combined to throw 114 significant strikes and received a standing ovation from the crowd.

The action continued in round two, with Guida taking Sanchez down 30 seconds into the round and controlling the action via ground-and-pound. Known for his jiu-jitsu, Diego attempted various submissions from his back and connected on a series of elbows from guard position. Guida maintained control throughout the round, matching Diego’s opening round success heading into the third.    

Having each won one round, both athletes were exhausted entering round three, with Guida starting the action by throwing punches to try and set up a takedown. Both athletes traded punches for the majority of the round, until Guida’s takedown attempt at the 1:50 mark was countered by Sanchez, resulting in Diego taking Clay’s back and trying to submit him via arm triangle. Diego lost his arm triangle bid and Clay ended up on top in full guard with Sanchez maneuvering to attempt a kimura. Guida was able to defend Diego’s submission attempt and the fight ended with a final barrage of punches from both fighters.

Sanchez would win the bout via split decision, earning a title shot against UFC Hall of Famer BJ Penn for the lightweight title in the main event of UFC^®107: PENN vs. SANCHEZ. He would lose his title bid against Penn but has continued to fight the best athletes in the world inside the Octagon.

During his career, Sanchez has competed in 29 fights inside the Octagon and is one of only two fighters that have competed in UFC’s middleweight, welterweight, lightweight and featherweight divisions, joining Kenny Florian. Diego is currently on a two-fight winning streak and most recently defeated Mickey Gall via TKO at UFC^® 235: JONES vs. SMITH, in Las Vegas on Saturday, March 2, 2019. 

Guida has also continued to flourish inside the Octagon following this historic fight, winning 10 of his last 18 fights, including three of his last four. Clay recently earned a unanimous decision victory over Penn at UFC^® 237: NAMAJUNAS vs. ANDRADE, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on Saturday, May 11, 2019.  

The 8^th Annual UFC International Fight Week™ will take place from Wednesday, July 3 – Sunday, July 7 in Las Vegas. For more information, download the official UFC International Fight Week app, that is available on the App Store and Google Play.

To view the Hall of Fame fight library, please visit UFCHOF. To see a complete list of UFC athletes and fights enshrined in the UFC Hall of Fame, as well as details regarding the UFC Hall of Fame format, please visit UFCHOFFAQ. For additional information, please visit UFC.com.

About UFC^®
UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization and the largest Pay-Per-View event provider in the world. UFC boasts more than 300 million fans worldwide, including 70 million social media followers across all of its digital platforms, and its programming is broadcast in over 170 countries and territories to one billion TV households worldwide in 40 different languages. UFC produces more than 40 live events annually and consistently sells out some of the world’s most prestigious arenas. Since 2001, UFC has been proudly headquartered in Las Vegas, supported by a network of employees around the world. UFC’s current roster of athletes features more than 570 men and women representing over 55 countries. UFC FIGHT PASS^®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, delivers exclusive live events, thousands of fights on-demand, and original content to fans around the world. UFC was acquired in 2016 by global sports, entertainment, and fashion leader Endeavor, along with strategic investors Silver Lake Partners and KKR, in what is among the largest transactions in sports history. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat, and Instagram: @UFC.

Oscar Valdez dropped Jason Sanchez en-route to a 12-round unanimous decision to retain the WBO Featherweight title at Reno-Sparks Convention Center in Reno, Nevada.

In the opening seconds of round five, Valdez dropped Sanchez with a hard left hook. The two had some nice exchanges that Valdez got the better in most of those skirmishes.

Valdez, 125.4 lbs of Nogales, MEX won by scores of 118-109 twice and 117-110, and is now 26-0. Sanchez, 124.8 lbs of Albuquerque, NM is 14-1.

“I hope {to fight at featherweight again}. I also have to listen to my body. We’re going to see what’s best,” Valdez said. “Sometimes I get tired in there, and I’m not sure if it’s because of the weight loss. We’ll talk about {my next move} as a team and will do what is best. I want to fight everybody at 126, 130. Let’s do it.”

“Sanchez lacked experience, but he showed tremendous guts. Oscar Valdez fought him back and showed his championship heart,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “We’re going to look for a fight later on in the year between Valdez and Carl Frampton if Frampton is successful in his next fight.”

19 Year-Old Gabriel Flores Jr.remained undefeated by winning an eight-round unanimous decision over Salvador Briceno in a light weight bout.

Scores were 79-73 and 78-74 twice for Flores, 132.8 lbs of Stockton, California and is now 14-0. Briceno, 132.2 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is 15-4.

“I want to fight in the next two, three months. If they want me to fight next month, we can talk about it,” Flores said. “I am only 19, and I am only getting better. I’m staying busy and fighting better opponents. Top Rank is developing me perfectly, and it’s about fighting all different types of fighters to get me ready for the championship level.”

Robson Conceicao won an eight-round unanimous decision over Carlos Ruiz in a super featherweight bout.

Conceicao, 127.8 lbs of Baiha, BRA won by scores of 80-72 twice and 79-73, and is now 13-0. Ruiz, 127.2 lbs of Mexico City is now 16-7-2.

Sergio Vega and Diego Elizondo battled to a unanimous draw in a lightweight contest.

All three judges saw the score 38-38.

Vega, 133.6 lbs of Sacramento, CA is 2-0-1. Elizondo, 1348.8 lbs of Crason City, NV is 2-0-2.

Michael Seals scored a one-punch stoppage of Christopher Brooker in round two of their scheduled 10-round light heavyweight bout.

Seals landed a right hand to the top of the head that put Brooker out and briefly out cold and the fight was stopped at 2:00.

Seals, 175.2 lbs of Atlanta is 23-2 with 17 knockouts. Brooker, 174.6 lbs of Philadelphia is 14-7.

“He’s a tough guy. I did my homework on him,” Seals said. “I knew he was crafty, so I had to take my time. I knew I was going to walk him into something.”

In a battle of pro debuting super lightweights, J.J. Mariano stopped William Flenoy in the final round of their scheduled four-round bout.

Mariano registered a knockdown in round three from a left hook. In the next round, Mariano landed some hard shots, and Flenoy bowed out of the fight citing an injured shoulder.

Mariano, 138.2 lbs of Reno is 1-0 with one knockout. Flenoy, 139.4 lbs of Fresno, CA is 0-1.

Gennady Golovkin stopped previously undefeated Steve Rolls in round four of a scheduled 12-round over the limit middleweight fight at Madison Square Garden.

In round two, Rolls gave as good as he received as he landed a hard left that snapped Golovkin’s head back. Golovkin landed some nice body shots. In round three, Rolls landed a nice counter right. Golovkin came back with hard body work.

In round four, Golovkin landed a chopping hook that sent Rolls back to the ropes. Golovkin landed a head and body shot before landing a flush left to the face that sent Rolls face-first on the canvas, and he was counted out by referee Steve Willis at 2:09

Golovkin of Kazakstan is now 39–1-1 with 35 knockouts. Rolls of Toronto is 19-1.

Super Middleweight Ali Akhmedov stopped Marcus McDaniel in round three of a scheduled 10-round super middleweight bout.

Super Middleweight Ali Akhmedov stopped Marcus McDaniel in round three of a scheduled 10-round super middleweight bout.

In round three, Akhmedov landed a hard combination on the ropes that sent McDaniel to a knee. McDaniel got to his feet, but was unsteady and the fight was stopped by referee Benji Esteves at 1:41.

Akhmedov, 167.4 lbs of Kazakhstan is 15-0 with 11 knockouts. McDaniel, 168 lbs of New Orleans is 15-1.

Five-time New York Golden Gloves winner Brian Ceballo turned in the best performance of his career and took an eight-round unanimous decision of Bakhtiyar Eyubov in welterweight contest.

Ceballo landed hard jabs and string right hands from the opening bell. .  Ceballo was very accurate with his shots.  Ceballo looked very sharp as he landed crisp power shots in between Eyubov’s wild attempts to inflict on the Brooklyn native.  Ceballo continued to land sweet combinations that befuddled Eyubov.  In round eight, Ceballo hurt Eyubov was a nice body shot.  The two battled toe-to-toe down the stretch with Ceballo landing more, quicker and much more fluid combinations that marked up the face of Eyubov.

Ceballo of Brooklyn NY won by scores of 80-72, 79-73 and 78-74 to raise his perfect mark to 9-0. Eyubov of Kazakhstan is 14-1-1.

Israil Madrimov remained undefeated by stopping Norberto Gonzalez in rounds six of their scheduled 10-round junior middleweight contest.

Madrimov was dominant by stalking Gonzalez, and in round six, he turned up the activity by landing a heavy combination that hurt Gonzalez and the fight was stopped at 49 seconds.

Mdrimov, 152 lbs of Uzbekistan is 3-0 with three knockouts. Gonzalez, 152.8 lbs of Monterrey, Mexico us 24-13.

2016 U.S. Olympian Charles Conwell remained perfect with a 10-round unanimous decision over Courtney Pennington to win the USBA Junior Middleweight championship.

In round two, Conwell hurt Pennington with a left hook. In round six, Conwell continued to batter Pennington as he landed a hard combination along the ropes that featured a solid left hook and flush right.  In round eight, Pennington suffered a cut over his right eye from a left-right combination from Conwell.  In round ten, he stunned Pennington again with a right hand.

Conwell, 153.4 lbs of Cleveland won by scores of 97-92 twice and 96-93, and is now 10-0. Pennington, 152 lbs of Brooklyn is 12-4-3.

Nikita Ababiy made quick work of Juan Francsico Lopez Barajas as he scored a one-punch, 41-second knockout in their scheduled four-round middleweight contest.

Ababiy landed a left hook to the liver that sent Barajas down. Barajas was in pain, and tried to get up but fell right back down and the fight was stopped.

Ababiy, 162.6 lbs of Brooklyn is 5-0 with five knockouts. Lopez, 157.2 lbs of Mexico is 5-1.

NEW YORK (June 8, 2019) –Split-T Management’s Boubacar Sylla remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision in a welterweight bout over gritty Marquis Hawthorne on Friday night at The Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York.

Sylla boxed well, and scored by working behind an accurate jab.  Sylla used his almost 6’1″ frame to his advantage to keep Hawthorne at the end of his work, before mixing it up on the inside.  Hawthorne, who had defeated four undefeated foes, put up a good effort, but in the end, it was the technically sound Sylla that came home with the victory by scores of 58-56 twice and 59-55.

Sylla of Cincinnati, Ohio who is now trained by world championship trainer Brian McIntyre, continues to stay unblemished at 10-0.
The 24 year-old Sylla is promoted by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.