WARRINGTON: THE TIME IS RIGHT

Josh Warrington believes boxers have an obligation to boxing fans to make the right fights at the right time, which is why he is readying himself to take on Carl Frampton at the Manchester Arena on December 22.

The Leeds Warrior points out that some fights have been left in the file marked ‘pending’ for too long and can lose their appeal as a result of the delay.

There is no danger of Warrington falling into that trap, what with signing up to face two-weight world champion Frampton for a first defence of IBF world featherweight title he won in May from Lee Selby.

“Even when the fight was first talked about a couple of my pals said I should just have a steady defence,” recalled the unbeaten Warrington, who swiftly rejected the suggestion. “The way I responded was to say there isn’t an easy defence at world level and if you think there is you are maybe taking your eye off the ball.

“Secondly, I want these fights to happen because I want to prove I am the best and I want to be No.1 – I am ranked No.2 behind Carl and I want to be first because this is my year.

“Frank (Warren) said this fight should happen this year, but we weren’t under pressure to do so. The fight could’ve happened next year in a big stadium showdown, but there is the risk of a fighter getting injured and prolonging that or the dates not matching, or a fighter getting beaten.

“We are at a high level and one punch can change a fight, so get the fights going now because it is what the boxing public want to see.

“That is why the sport it booming again because fights are getting made that people want to see. When fighters dig their heels in, like Kell Brook and Amir Khan, a fight loses its gloss.

“A few years ago that would have been exciting, but not so much now. People might still want to see it, but is it going to be the same fight?

“Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather boxed a few years too late, but we are both in our prime now, so why not get the fight happening and we are doing so now.

“We want to prove who is the best and I think that is how it should be.”

IBF world featherweight champion Josh Warrington takes on former two-weight world champion Carl Frampton at the Manchester Arena on December 22nd live on BT Sport Box Office. Mark Heffron and Liam Williams contest the vacant British middleweight title and Belfast’s blue chip featherweight prospect Michael Conlan (9-0) takes on former commonwealth champion Jason Cunningham (24-5). In a step up, Nathan Gorman puts his undefeated record and WBC International Silver Heavyweight Title on the line against former World Title challenger Alex Leapai.

Elsewhere on the bill. world flyweight title challenger Paddy Barnes (5-1) and unbeaten Light Heavyweight contender Steven Ward (9-0) return to action. Manchester’s 12-0 Light Heavyweight Lyndon Arthur and 7-0 Darlington middleweight Troy Williamson also return.

Tickets are priced at £50 Upper Tier, £80 Tier, £100 Tier, £150 Tier, £200 Floor/Tier, £300 Floor, £400 Floor, £600 Inner Ring VIP Hospitality and are available.

Tickets available via Manchester Arena.




Oubaali – Warren title fight added to December 22 Brooklyn card

A bantamweight title fight between Nordine Oubaali and Rau’Shee Warren has been added to the December 22nd card at Barclay Center in Brooklyn. Also added will be a fight involving former world champion Rances Barthelemy, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.




Iraq War Veteran Chris Traietti retains N.E. Cruiserweight title

DORCHESTER, Mass. (November 21, 2018) — New England cruiserweight champion Chris Traietti closed tonight’s Thanksgiving Day show, “Championship Boxing at the Armory”, in grand style, picking apart challenger Nick Lavin on the way to an impressive eight-round unanimous decision win in the main event.

The “Championship Boxing at the Armory”, presented by Granite Chin Promotions (GCP), has become an annual tradition at the National Guard Armory in Dorchester, Massachusetts.

Fighting out of nearby Quincy, MA, the popular 33-year-old Traietti (27-4, 21 KOs), is an Irag War veteran and college graduate, who defeated the Lavin by way of an eight-round unanimous decision August 5, 2017 for the N.E. title.

Last night in their rematch, Traietti used his vast experience advantage, as well as power and aggressiveness, continually pounding his tough Shelton, CT challenger Lavin (5-10, 4 KOs), walking him down and effectively trapping Lavin on the ropes and in the corners. Traietti jabbed his way inside and unloaded blistering combinations, completely controlling the action from start to finish.

Traietti’s constant peppering of Lavin left no doubt in the minds of the three judges at ringside, who scored the bout in favor of Traietti by scores of 80-72 three times for a “shutout” victory.

“We had a great turnout and I’m glad that we are keeping this tradition alive,” Traietti the co-promoter said. “Fans enjoyed themselves, fighters came to fight, and I can’t wait to do it again next year.”

Traietti the fighter revealed that he’s going all-in on his career next year, when he is expected to reunite with his currently incarcerated head trainer, Jimmy Farrell. “When Jimmy went away,” Traietti explained, “I didn’t take it well. I took the Mike Lee fight and I was in shape, but for the past two years I’ve trained myself and regressed. Jimmy knows how to get the best out of me. trust him, it’s just there, and without him as my trainer it’s showed. I’m not easy to train because of my personality.

“Jimmy says he’s getting out in 2019. I’ve been buying my time, fighting locally, nothing too big. I’m going to make my final push with Jimmy next year. I’m not perfect, he’s not perfect, but together it works. We had an 11-fight knockout streak going when he went away. I’ll stay afloat until he gets back. I want to work up to a big fight and see what happens. I’m going to give it my all and, if things don’t work out, I’ll hang up my gloves for good.”

Former N.E. welterweight champion Derek “The Surgeon” Silveira (15-2, 8 KOs), fighting out of Salem, MA, was operating from the opening bell against Mexican veteran Franciso “El Mono” Medel (12-16, 8 KOs) in the co-featured event. Silveira never let up, snapping off a one-two to the body and suddenly Medel was finished in the second round.

Claremont, NH middleweight Ricky Ford (3-1-2, 1 KO) and Saul Almeida (0-10-3), of Woburn, MA. fought to a four-round majority draw.

Gloucester, MA super middleweight prospect “Handsome” Henry Gedney (1-0), a 2017 Rocky Marciano Tournamentchampion, stopped Francisco Neto (0-1), of Woburn, in round one. Fan-favorite Gedney ripped a short right to Neto’s body, resulting in a quick knockdown, and moments later he went down for good at the 1:16 mark.

Pembroke, MA cruiserweight Vinnie “American Dream” Carita (19-1-1, 18 KOs), a court officer in Brockton, MA, outclassed 62-fight veteran Steve “The Spoiler” Walker (26-36, 18 KOs), the former Mid-West middleweight titlist. Carita floored Walker mid-way through the opening round with a punishing right to the body. Walker managed to beat the count, however, Carita’s next punch landed in the exact same area of Walker’s body, and this time he stayed down.

New York junior welterweight prospect Ray Jay Bermudez (5-0, 3 KOs) kept his undefeated record intact, dropping Bruno Dias (0-5) three times in the second round. Dias never recovered from a vicious liver shot, which resulted in the first knockdown, and two later trips to the canvas ended the fight.

Providence (RI) middleweight Anthony Concepcion (2-0, 2 KOs), trained by World Boxing Organization (WBO) World middleweight champion Demetrious “Boo Boo” Andrade, opened the night against veteran Mexican fighter Roberto “El Viejo” Valenzuela (69-73-2, 56), a former Pacific Coast lightweight champion. Valenzuela has had 143 more pro bouts than Concepcion, but the 26-year-old Concepcion pressed the action from the start, using an effective body attack that paid off with a sizzling left-right combination in round two. Valenzuela dropped to one knee, unable to beat the count, and Concepcion had his second pro win without a loss.

Complete results below:

OFFICIAL RESULTS

MAIN EVENT – NEW ENGLAND CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
Chris Traietti (27-4, 21 KOs). Quincy, MA
WDEC8 (80-72, 80-72, 80-72)
Nick Lavin (5-10, 4 KOs), Shelton, CT
(Traietti retained the N.E. cruiserweight title)

CO-FEATURE – JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Derek Silveira (15-2, 8 KOs), Salem MA
WKO2 (1:03)
Francisco Medal (12-16, 8 KOs), Uruapan, Michoacan de Campo, Mexico

CRUISERWEIGHTS – 8 ROUNDS
Vinnie Carita (19-1-1, 18 KOs), Pembroke, MA
WKO1 (1:58)
Steve Walker (26-36, 18 KOs), Hannibal, MO

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS – 4 ROUNDS
Henry Gedney (2-0, 1 KO), Gloucester, MA
WKO1 (1:16)
Francisco Neto (0-2), Woburn, MA

MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Ricky Ford (3-1-2, 1 KO), Claremont, NH
WD4 (39-37, 38-38, 38-38)
Saul Almeida (0-10-3), Framingham, MA

Anthony Concepcion (2-0, 2 KOs), Providence, RI
WKO2 (2:16)
Roberto Valenzuela (69-73-2, 56 KOs), Aqua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico

JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS
Ray Jay Bermudez (5-0, 3 KOs), Troy, NY
WKO2 (2:24)
Bruno Dias (0-5), Woburn, MA

INFORMATION:
Facebook.com/GraniteChin
Twitter: @Granite_Chin

INFORMATION:
Facebook.com/GraniteChin
Twitter: @Granite_Chin




Video: DAY IN CAMP: Jarrett Hurd | Hurd vs. Welborn | Dec. 1 on SHOWTIME PPV




Dmitry Bivol vs. Jean Pascal Media Roundtable Quotes


Dmitry Bivol, WBA Light Heavyweight World Champion

Question: “How does it feel to be back on the Boardwalk?”

Bivol: “Good. It is a lot colder than last time, but it feels good.”

Question: “What did you take from your fight with Isaac Chilemba, a crafty guy like that?”

Bivol: “I took a lot of experience against Chilemba. He has good defense, and he has speed, a quick fighter. Just good experience.”

Question: “What does Jean Pascal offer to you?”

Bivol: “Pascal is a different fighter than I had before. He is a former champion. I know he’s a strong guy. He has a good counter attack. He has good experience.”

Question: “It doesn’t seem like you’ve ever stepped away from a challenge.”

Bivol: “No, it doesn’t matter. Every fighter has good sides and bad sides. It gives me a chance to show my good skills to people, and I think it will make a good fight.”

Dmitry Bivol
Photo Credits: Tom Briglia/Main Events

Question: “What is your good side?”

Bivol: “I’m not the quickest, I’m not the strongest, I’m not the most dynamic. But I have all these qualities for a boxer. I have something inside of me which helps me to be a winner.”

Question: “What is that?”

Bivol: “I don’t know, some voice inside of me.”

Question: “And it always comes out when you are fighting someone?”

Bivol: “It’s always been with me, yes.”

Question: “I understand this is one of the final fights HBO is broadcasting. Is this meaningful to you?”

Bivol: “I’m really grateful to HBO for this opportunity. When I was young, I watched famous boxers like Mike Tyson, Roy Jones, Manny Pacquiao, fight on HBO. I wanted to be famous like these guys, a champion fighting on HBO. And now I’m fighting in an HBO main event. It’s an honor for me.”

Question: “One of your main goals is to unify titles. Is it hard to stay focused in the meantime?”

Bivol: “This is just a step for my main goal. I can’t describe my main goal, but I know I want to realize my potential to be the champion. This is one of the steps to my goal. Unification fight, this is a step to my goal.”

Question: “Has every step you’ve taken recently been leading to your goal?”

Bivol: “I don’t know exactly if this will be the toughest fight for me, but every fight for me is important and a big responsibility. Every fight is like that. If I lost my previous fight, I would not have the opportunity for this fight.”

Question: “What do you have to do to win this fight?”

Bivol: “I have to do what I can, what I’ve trained, relax and focus on the plan from my training camp.”

Question: “I guess you can’t tell me the plan?”

Bivol: “No (laughs).”

Question: “What’s it like to be back in Atlantic City fighting again?”

Bivol: “I’m glad, because I’ve gotten used to this.”

Question: “Do you feel like you are getting a fan base here in Atlantic City?”

Bivol: “I met a couple people who wished me luck. I hope there will be more and more and more people.”

Question: “Do you notice people coming down from New York, where most of the Russians live?”

Bivol: “Yes, some people are sending me messages that they are going to be at my fight. My friends from Miami will come. From Russia, of course some people will come support me.”

Question: “A Korean newspaper is coming, too.”

Bivol: “That’s good!”

Jean Pascal
Photo Credits: Tom Briglia/Main Events

Jean Pascal – Former WBC Light Heavyweight World Champion

Question: “Are you looking forward to Saturday night?”

Pascal: “Of course!”

Question: “Have you ever fought in Atlantic City before?”

Pascal: “Not yet. I’ve been here twice. The first time I came to see Arturo Gatti fight, a Danish guy [Thomas Damgaard], I don’t remember the name. The second time I came to see Carl Froch fight against Andre Ward in the Super Six.”

Question: “Atlantic City has a reputation as a big fight town. Is it a big deal to fight on the Boardwalk?”

Pascal: “I like it because Gatti used to fight here, he’s from my hometown. There is history here as well. I’ve been there, done that, I’ve fought in Vegas, England, Miami. it’s not my first world championship.”

Question: “How much do you think your experience will come into play?”

Pascal: “Definitely, I have a lot of experience. But I know he can beat me. I’m very glad to have this opportunity. I want to thank Dmitry Bivol for this opportunity. I respect Dmitry a lot. I think right now he’s the best fighter in the light heavyweight division. But I’m going to try and stop him Saturday night.”

Question: “Why did you pick him as an opponent?”

Pascal: “Because,I don’t back down from any challenges. When they call, I just say yes. When an opportunity comes, I just say yes. They call me up, I say yes, I take the challenge.”

Question: “What does he offer different from any other opponents you’ve fought?”

Pascal: “His nickname must be the problem, because I have a lot of problems to resolve Saturday night. He has good distance, he has good balance, he’s strong, he hits hard. It’s going to be a great fight on Saturday night.”

Question: “What do you present he hasn’t seen before?”

Pascal: “Like I said,you cannot buy experience. You need to live it. You need to experience it. I’ve been in there with Kovalev twice. I’ve been in there with Hopkins twice. I’ve been in there with Carl Froch, [Lucian] Bute, with [Adrian] Diaconu. Like I said, this is something you cannot buy. He might be young, fresh, but I’ve got experience on my side.”

Question: “What are your good sides?”

Pascal: “Come on Saturday night and you will see.”

Question: “I guess you can’t tell me your bad sides?”

Pascal: “Come Saturday, maybe you won’t see it though.”

Question: “Styles make fights. Is this one of the styles you think will make a good matchup?”

Pascal: “Dmitry’s not a chicken. He’s not going to run around, I know he likes to fight. He wants to put on a good show, he’s there to fight me and impress the public. I know it’s going to be a great battle on HBO. I think, seriously, I really think it’s going to be the best fight of this year on HBO.”

Question: “Is this fight important to your legacy?”

Pascal: “I’m making history again. I said before, I was the first Canadian boxer to be on HBO in Canada against Chad Dawson, so I was very proud. It was when I was world champion. I’m going to be the last Canadian boxer who fights on HBO World Championship Boxing. Once again, I’m making history. So, I’m very glad and happy and proud of myself.”

Question: “Do you study your opponent, or wait and see in the ring? Do you study someone’s style?”

Pascal: “I study my opponent, but not too much. Just because he’s fought like this the last time or the last three fights, it doesn’t mean he’s going to show up in the same way. So, I study my opponent, but not too much.”

Question: “You don’t know how he’s going to react to what you do, right?”

Pascal: “I know that he knows me really well. I know him too, really well. He knows what to expect from him. He’s got better and better. He’s a young champion. He’s getting better and better. So, I know it will be a great fight.”

Question: “Is there one fight out there you haven’t had you wish you had?”

Pascal: “I’m a veteran, I won’t be caught up on the speculation. I’m focused on Dmitry right now.”

Question: “How do you feel fighting in Atlantic City?”

Pascal: “It’s my first fight here, but it won’t be my last.”

Question: “Did you know this is a big vacation spot for Montreal?”

Pascal: “I didn’t know that. My main focus is to stay focused. After my victory. I’ll come down here.”

Murodjon Akhmadaliev
Photo Credits: Tom Briglia/Main Events

Question: “Your professional career has moved very quickly. Is that something you wanted when you turned pro?”

Akhmadaliev: “It is a big honor. And it is unexpected to be honest with you. I am thankful to my promoter and to my management that I am able to move that quickly. It is definitely a shock but is something that is making me happy. I am very pleased to be where I am.”

Question: “Do you ever worry about opponents that have more experience than you?”

Akhmadaliev: “Yeah definitely they have an experience advantage, but I have a lot of amateur experience and I feel that I am ready for this. I am ready for these fighters. I have fought a lot of top fighters in the amateurs and I feel like that experience is just as important. I feel good. I am happy to be fighting these top fighters right away.”

Question: “What is the biggest difference in the amateurs and the pros?”

Akhmadaliev: “I think the main difference is the number of rounds, the length of the fight, so the conditioning needs to be at a different level. We have been working on that a lot with my team and my trainers, Joel Diaz and Antonio Diaz. I have done a lot of sparring with Diego de la Hoya and JoJo Diaz. I have done a lot of work and I feel like I am ready, 100%. For me this is just a step forward.”

Question: “Were there any fighters that you idolized growing up that you try to pattern yourself after?”

Akhmadaliev: “Roy Jones Jr., Manny Pacquiao, Vasyl Lomachenko and GGG.”

Vadim Kornilov: “He has a lot of things that he takes from those fighters. You guys will see in the ring. A lot of people like where they are but not a lot of people are able to do what they do but M.J. does certain things in the ring that are taken from each of those fighters. He really enjoys performing. It is hard to describe but I think the best thing is to watch the co-main event on HBO and M.J. Akhmadaliev. People are going to see some of these things that are very interesting. He has a lot of combinations and a lot of punches that he uses that are very exciting. He takes the best from all these guys.”

Question: “Did you know all along that you were going to become a pro someday?”

Akhmadaliev: “Of course. It is my dream to become a pro. Right now, my career, is a dream come true. Those fighters that I watched, I wanted to be like them one day. I am taking steps forward to get to that level. My plan is for one day I will be like one of them.”

Question: “They say some amateurs have a style that is more suited for the pros. Is that the case with you?”

Akhmadaliev: “My style was already professional even when I was an amateur. But now I am doing a lot of work with my team, my trainers, to become more of a fitted pro. We are doing a lot of work on that. You will see in the ring on Saturday.”

Question: “What can the fans expect when they tune in on Saturday?”

Akhmadaliev: “I will perform at my best and it will be a very exciting fight. I can guarantee that. (laughs) It will be another ‘Big Drama Show.'”

FOLLOW US:
#BivolPascal
Twitter: @Bivol_D
Instagram: @Bivol_D
Twitter: @jeanpascalchamp
Instagram: @jeanpascalchamp
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeanpascalchamp/
www.mainevents.com
Twitter: @main_events
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MainEventsBoxing
Instagram: @Main_Events
www.vsenabox.ru
Twitter: @WorldofBox
Instagram: @vsenabox
www.hardrockhotelatlanticcity.com
Twitter: @HardRockHCAC
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/HardRockHCAC/
Instagram: @hardrockhcac
www.hbo.com/boxing
Twitter: @HBOBoxing
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/HBOBoxing
Instagram: @hboboxing

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City

Set on 17 acres, with the legendary Atlantic City Boardwalk as its backdrop, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City will be Atlantic City’s go-to entertainment destination, boasting 2,200 slots, 120 table games, more than 20 first-class restaurants and lounges, and world-class entertainment, including Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena, the beachside Sound Waves and Howie Mandel’s Comedy Club. The hotel and casino also features the iconic Hard Rock Cafe, overlooking the Atlantic City Boardwalk, showcasing a brand new elevated menu and state-of-the-art stage, allowing for an amplified level of service and entertainment. Along with an endless array of upscale amenities, including world-class shopping and the brand’s signature full-service Rock Spa and Salon, featuring 31 treatment rooms, the new, music-inspired property offers lavish guest rooms and suites, with stunning views of the city and Atlantic Ocean. From family vacations and business trips to weddings, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City offers an unparalleled experience. Each of the hotel’s guest rooms and suites radiates a contemporary style, including Hard Rock’s signature The Sound of Your Stay® music amenity program, which allows guests to set the mood with complimentary vinyl records or jam out on a Fender guitar in the privacy of their own room. Hotel guests can enjoy high speed, property-wide Wi-Fi, 24-Hour In-Room Dining, towel and chair service at Hard Rock Beach or at the indoor pool, and 24-Hour Access to Body Rock fitness. For more information and to book your stay, please visit hardrockhotelatlanticcity.com.




Video: Rocky Fielding talks Canelo Alvarez fight




TURCHI: I’M READY TO MAKE BOXING A MAINSTREAM SPORT IN ITALY

WBC International Silver Cruiserweight Champion Fabio Turchi says he is ready to make boxing a mainstream sport in Italy.

Turchi defends his belt against former Commonwealth Cruiserweight Champion Tony Quest at the Teatro Obi Hall in Florence on November 30, live on DAZN and Sky Sports.

Turchi vs. Conquest tops the inaugural event of the historic collaboration between Matchroom Boxing Italy, Opi Since 82 and DAZN. The eight-year joint venture will see Matchroom Boxing Italy stage eight marque events throughout Italy per year, and Turchi is delighted to leading the way.

“It’s an honour to be be headlining the first ever Matchroom Boxing Italy event in my city,” said Turchi. “I’m keeping my feet firmly on the ground but I’m ready to do what I can to make boxing a mainstream sport in Italy.

“The first step is defeating Tony Conquest. I have been training hard in the gym and I’ll be leaving it all in the ring next Saturday. I’ve seen videos of his fights and I know that he has long arms and knows how to use them. Besides that, he is a British fighter and Britain always produces tough fighters. None of this worries me.

“Fighting in my city, in front of my fans, is a big thrill for me. In my three previous fights in Florence, thousands of people showed up and I’m expecting my fans to turn up in big numbers again on November 30.”

‘Stone Crusher’ holds a perfect record of 15 consecutive wins since turning professional in 2015, 11 within the distance. He demolished Maurizio Lovaglio in six rounds to become the Italian Cruiserweight Champion in 2016 before stopping Cesar David Crenz to win the WBC International Silver title the following year.

Currently ranked no. 28 in the World by the WBC, Turchi is hungry for World title glory and credits his father Leonardo, a former Italian Light-Heavyweight Champion, for giving him the drive to achieve his dreams.

“My father got me in the boxing gym and he always told me stories about his good friend Giacobbe Fragomeni. After a while, Giacobbe became my idol. Like Giacobbe, I want to become World Cruiserweight Champion. The road to a World title is very long, but with the backing from my team and Matchroom, I know I can achieve my dream.”

Turchi’s clash with Conquest is part of a huge night of boxing in Florence.

Torino’s Andrea ‘Sugar Ray’ Scarpa (23-4) clashes with Malmesbury’s former British title challenger Joe Hughes (16-3-1) for the vacant EBU European Super-Lightweight title and Devis ‘Boom Boom’ Boschiero (46-5-2) takes on Brentwood’s former European Champion Martin J Ward (20-1-2) for the WBC International Silver Super-Featherweight title.

Super-Welterweight Orlando Fiordigiglio (29-2), undefeated Featherweight Carmine Tommasone (18-0), Welterweight prospect Mirko Natalizi (2-0) and Commonwealth Games bronze medallist John Docherty (1-0) all feature on the undercard.

Tickets priced 50 Euros (Ringside), 40 Euros (Parterre) and 20 Euros (Gallery) + the vendor’s fee can be purchased on Ticketone.it and Boxofficetoscana.it. Info: 338-7769949.




Undefeated Heavyweight Prospect Kye Brooks Faces Toughest Test of his Career

LAS VEGAS, NV (November 21, 2018) – Prince Ranch Boxing’s unbeaten heavyweight prospect, Kye Brooks (4-0, 3 KOs) returns to the ring, December 1, 2018, at The Scottish Rite Theatre in San Antonio, Texas, as part of a stacked undercard for Kendo Castaneda (14-0, 7 KOs) vs. Gilbert Venegas Jr. (10-0, 6 KOs), co-promoted by TMB & PRB Entertainment and Roy Jones Jr. Promotions.

Brooks will be stepping up in competition to face Vaughn Parham (3-1 3KOs), who has won every bout in his professional career via knockout.

“I wanted a challenge, so I made sure I faced the toughest opponent possible,” said Kye Brooks, who resides in Las Vegas, and is trained by former two-time world champion Bones Adams. “Vaughn Parham is a kill or be killed type of fighter. He has tremendous power and it’s a dangerous fight. I took this challenge so that I can make a statement.”

“Brooks is a great fighter with good power in both hands.” said Greg Hannely, CEO of Prince Ranch Boxing. “He’s eager to face the best in his division. I am very excited for what the future holds for him.

This is Brooks’ toughest test to date as the New York native Parham is a heavy-handed slugger looking to pull off the upset.

“I am ready!” Brooks continued. “I didn’t turn pro for anything, I am giving people good fights and entertaining bouts, December 1st is just another one.”

The entire card will be streamed via Facebook’s FIGHTNIGHT LIVE channel, which has already served more than three million fight fans since May 2017.

Tickets priced $35 General Admission $40 at the door, and $100 Ringside, are on sale now, and can be purchased by calling (210) 449-5599 or (210) 322-9974. The Scottish Rite Theatre is located at 308 Ave E, San Antonio, TX 78205. Doors open at 4:00 PM, first bell at 5:30 PM.




Murodjon Akhmadaliev vs. Issac Zarate Scouting Report

(Atlantic City, NJ) – The opening bout on HBO’s “World Championship Boxing” this Saturday, November 24 between Morodjon Akhmadaliev (4-0, 3 KOs) and Isaac Zarate (16-3-3, 2 KOs) pits a young rising star against a determined opponent, both with plenty to prove. Below is the scouting report for this exciting match-up.

Category
Murodjon Akhmadaliev
Isaac “Dinamita” Zarate
Age
24
27
Record
4-0-0 (3 KOs)
16-3-3 (2 KOs)
Strength
Akhmadalieiv is a busy fighter in the ring. He has a high punch output and is always looking to finish. He is light on his feet and consistently keeps it moving during his fights, making it difficult for his opponents to get going offensively.
Zarate has a stiff jab that he uses extremely well in setting up his shots. He has legitimate defense and is a solid counter-puncher. He has been in the ring with high-quality contenders throughout his career.
Weakness
“MJ” lacks the experience at this level when compared to his opponent.
“Dinamita” comes into this fight lacking the punching power his opponent possesses.
Experience
Akhmadaliev lacks experience at the professional level. This will be his toughest test to date.
He has much more experience at this level than his opponent. He is also a very active fighter. This will be his fourth bout of 2018.
Power
The 2016 Olympic Bronze medalist is a great body puncher. He attacks from all angles, and has a vicious left hook.
Zarate is not known for being a knockout artist, or having much power. However, he is a technician in the ring, and makes his opponents work rigorously from start to finish.
Speed
Akhmadaliev has quick hands and even quicker feet, he is always on the move and keeps a rapid pace throughout the fight
He is very fast defensively, moves his head well and does a superb job of keeping out of harm’s way.
Endurance
His endurance is still in question. The furthest he has gone in previous bouts is six rounds. This will be a giant step up for the young prospect.
Zarate will have the advantage. Seven of his last eight bouts have gone the distance.
Accuracy
Akhmadaliev is a very accurate body puncher and has a pinpoint accurate jab.
Similar to his opponent, Zarate is an accurate body puncher and picks his shots wisely.
Defense
Akhmadaliev is stronger on offense than he is on defense. He likes to drop his guard at timea in hopes of diverting his opponent’s attention. This tactic could backfire if he attempts it against his seasoned opponent.
Zarate has effective defense that has gotten him to this point in his career. He moves his head and slips punches well. He also has sharp body movement and a pinpoint accurate jab that has posed problems for his previous opponents
Chin
Akhmadaliev’s chin is still a question. If he decides to stand in front of Zarate, there is a good chance it will be tested
Zarate has a sturdy chin. He has never been stopped in his professional career.
Style
Akhmadaliev is a highly regarded prospect who has an exciting style. He comes forward with fast combinations and delivers a high punch output each and every fight.
Zarate is a technician in the ring and a solid defensive fighter. He doesn’t carry big pop in either hand, but he does let his hands go and keep a consistent and entertaining pace throughout the fight.
Intangibles
Akhmadaliev has opted to take a challenging road to start his young career. With a professional record of just 4-0, he will take another huge step-up in competition when he takes on Zarate. This is his second consecutive bout scheduled for 10 rounds. He made a statement in his recent bout when he scored a first round knockout over Ramon Contreras.
His opponent this time around is a tremendous defensive fighter, and has yet to be stopped. A win this Saturday would be game-changing for his career, and would undoubtedly put the entire super bantamweight division on high Akhmadaliev alert.
Zarate has been taking on tough opposition throughout his entire career. He will fight anyone and everyone and has proved it throughout the years. He is coming fresh off a win two months ago over formerly ranked and always tough Horacio Garcia. Rather than take some time off and embrace other potential opportunities, Zarate will instead jump right back in the ring and put a stamp on what has been a successful year for him so far.
A win over the highly regarded prospect will cap off an outstanding year for the veteran, and will leave Zarate in a strong position to make the case for a shot at a title.
Crowd Support
Akhmadaliev has an exciting style that will inevitably earn him some fans by the time the fight is over.
Zarate has never competed in New Jersey, but if he can find a way to put an end to the hype behind his opponent, then he will be on the radar of fight fans for sure.
The Match-Up
Will Zarate be able to handle the body punches and power from Akmadaliev?
Will Akmadaliev be able to handle Zarate’s nonstop, come forward style?

Main Events matchmaker Jolene Mizzone says, “I like this match-up. You have a guy in Akmadaliev who is only 4-0, and not wasting any time in challenging himself against a tough opponent in Zarate.

“Zarate has been on the short end of the stick in many fights. Out of his three losses, only one was a unanimous decision. All the others were split decisions. Zarate is going into another tough fight with Akmadaliev, so kudos to him. Akmadaliev is taking his toughest fight to date in only his fifth fight.

“This says so much about him. These are the kind of guys I love as a matchmaker and as a fan!” said Mizzone.

FOLLOW US:
#BivolPascal
Twitter: @Bivol_D
Instagram: @Bivol_D
Twitter: @jeanpascalchamp
Instagram: @jeanpascalchamp
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeanpascalchamp/
www.mainevents.com
Twitter: @main_events
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MainEventsBoxing
Instagram: @Main_Events
www.vsenabox.ru
Twitter: @WorldofBox
Instagram: @vsenabox
www.hardrockhotelatlanticcity.com
Twitter: @HardRockHCAC
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/HardRockHCAC/
Instagram: @hardrockhcac
www.hbo.com/boxing
Twitter: @HBOBoxing
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/HBOBoxing
Instagram: @hboboxing

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City

Set on 17 acres, with the legendary Atlantic City Boardwalk as its backdrop, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City will be Atlantic City’s go-to entertainment destination, boasting 2,200 slots, 120 table games, more than 20 first-class restaurants and lounges, and world-class entertainment, including Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena, the beachside Sound Waves and Howie Mandel’s Comedy Club. The hotel and casino also features the iconic Hard Rock Cafe, overlooking the Atlantic City Boardwalk, showcasing a brand new elevated menu and state-of-the-art stage, allowing for an amplified level of service and entertainment. Along with an endless array of upscale amenities, including world-class shopping and the brand’s signature full-service Rock Spa and Salon, featuring 31 treatment rooms, the new, music-inspired property offers lavish guest rooms and suites, with stunning views of the city and Atlantic Ocean. From family vacations and business trips to weddings, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City offers an unparalleled experience. Each of the hotel’s guest rooms and suites radiates a contemporary style, including Hard Rock’s signature The Sound of Your Stay® music amenity program, which allows guests to set the mood with complimentary vinyl records or jam out on a Fender guitar in the privacy of their own room. Hotel guests can enjoy high speed, property-wide Wi-Fi, 24-Hour In-Room Dining, towel and chair service at Hard Rock Beach or at the indoor pool, and 24-Hour Access to Body Rock fitness. For more information and to book your stay, please visit hardrockhotelatlanticcity.com.




HABAZIN REMATCHES BAJIC ON HRGOVIC-PEREA UNDERCARD

Ivana Habazin (19-3, 7 KOs) rematches Eva Bajic (14-14, 9 KOs) on the undercard of Filip Hrgovi?’s WBC International Heavyweight title defence against Ytalo Perea on December 8 at the KC Drazen Petrovic in Zagreb.

The 29 year-old from Zagreb is fired up as she gets the opportunity to avenge her first career defeat in a ten-round super welterweight clash with Bajic, who defeated Habazin via unanimous decision for the IBF World title in March 2013.

Since suffering defeat to her Serbian rival, Habazin has gone on to claim both IBF Welterweight and IBO Middleweight World titles, and with an improved approach to her preparations she is confident of reversing the decision.

Habazin is also looking forward to fighting in front of her home fans again having successfully defended her IBO Middleweight World title with a one-sided points win over Gifty Amanua Ankrah on September 8 at the Arena Zagreb.

“I’m excited to be fighting again in Zagreb,” said Habazin. “It was quite overwhelming to box in front of my home fans last time, especially as this was the first boxing event of such significance. I was eager to prove myself and I wanted everyone to see the hard work and dedication I invested in my training.

“I’m even more excited to be boxing Eva again. The first fight I ever lost in my career was against Eva, and that is why my motivation is even greater this time.

“I think Eva is a very formidable and experienced opponent. However, our last fight resulted in defeat because I wasn’t prepared how I should have been. I defeated myself. I expect she considers herself the favorite in this fight because of that win, but I’m ready to show everyone that I will be victorious this time.

“Since our first fight, my approach has changed. I am really putting boxing as my priority. My health is finally good. I have a great team around me, and a great coach in James Ali Bashir. I really believe this fight could result in KO”

Habazin’s revenge mission will provide chief support on Hrgovi?’s WBC title defence, with Petar Milas having been forced to withdraw from a heavyweight showdown with Serhiy Radchenko after suffering a hand injury in training.

The WBC International Heavyweight Championship contest between Filip Hrgovi? and Ytalo Perea will top an action-packed fight card at the KC Dražen Petrovi? on December 8 with a full undercard set to be announced.

Tickets start from 150 KN and are available online www.eventim.hr. All the action will be broadcast live and exclusive on RTL in Croatia.




January 18: Bryant Jennings-Oscar Rivas Heavyweight Battle Tops ESPN+ Card at Turning Stone Resort Casino


VERONA, N.Y. (Nov. 20, 2018) — Bryant “B.Y.” Jennings is itching for another heavyweight world title shot. The 34-year-old Philadelphia native has won five consecutive bouts, four by knockout, and is intent on making an emphatic statement.

Jennings will put his IBF International and NABO heavyweight belts on the line in a 12-round showdown against the unbeaten NABF champion Oscar “Kaboom” Rivas on Friday, Jan. 18 at the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, N.Y. In the 10-round co-feature, undefeated featherweight sensation and 2016 U.S. Olympic silver medalist Shakur Stevenson will face an opponent to be determined.

Rivas’ participation in the bout is contingent on him defending his NABF title on Dec. 1 against Fabio Maldonado in Quebec City.

Jennings-Rivas and the Stevenson bout will stream live at 9:30 p.m. on ESPN+ — the new multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer & International segment in conjunction with ESPN. The undercard will stream live on ESPN+ beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Groupe Yvon Michel (GYM), ticket information for this world-class night of boxing will be announced shortly.

“I’ve been in this situation before. This is not a tall order at all,” Jennings said. “The job is to stay focused. I’m going to keep grinding and not take anybody lightly. Talk is cheap.”

‘‘I’ve waited for this opportunity for a very long time,” Rivas said. “Jennings is an excellent boxer. He is a world-class fighter and exactly the kind of challenge I was hoping to face. It is now time to take care of business and step up for the real challenges.’’

“I am ready to begin 2019 where 2018 left off,” Stevenson said. “This will be the year where I take my career to the next level. The fans are going to be in for a treat. It’s my time to shine.”

Jennings (24-2, 14 KOs), a former football, basketball, and track star at North Philadelphia’s Ben Franklin High School, did not pick up a pair of boxing gloves until he was 24 years old. He turned pro following an abbreviated 17-fight amateur career and quickly rose the ranks despite his limited experience. He fought valiantly in a 2015 title shot against Wladimir Klitschko, pushing the future Hall of Famer the distance in front of 17,056 fans at Madison Square Garden. Following a TKO defeat to Luis Ortiz later that year at Turning Stone Resort Casino, Jennings took 20 months off, returning to action in August 2017 under the Top Rank banner.

Since then, he has been one of the busiest heavyweight contenders as he seeks another shot on the world championship stage. In his last bout, Aug. 18 in Atlantic City as the headliner on an ESPN-televised card, Jennings recovered from a fourth-round knockdown to stop longtime contender Alexander Dimitrenko in the ninth.

Rivas (24-0, 17 KOs), a former Colombian amateur standout who now lives in Montreal, has fought all but two of his professional bouts in Canada. A nine-year pro, he transitioned to the paid ranks following a 2007 Pan American Games silver medal and quarterfinal berth at the 2008 Olympics. At 31 years old, the athletic, 240-pound Rivas is in his physical prime. He won the NABF title on Sept. 28, 2017 with a spectacular first-round stoppage against former world title challenger Carl Davis Drummond. In his last outing, May 19 at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto, he wore down Herve Hubeaux and prevailed via 10-round unanimous decision to retain the NABF title.

Stevenson (9-0, 5 KOs), a proud native of Newark, N.J., authored one of the great United States amateur careers. At the 2016 Olympics, Stevenson earned a silver medal following a controversial 2-1 decision loss to Cuba’s Robeisy Ramirez in the championship match. Using that heartbreak as motivation, Stevenson soon showed why he is considered among the sport’s rising stars. He went 5-0 with three knockouts in 2018, and in his last fight, Oct. 13 on the ESPN-televised undercard of the Terence Crawford-Jose Benavidez Jr. main event, he knocked down Viorel Simion three times en route to a first-round TKO. Simion, 21-2 entering the fight, had never been knocked down as a pro.

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

To subscribe to ESPN+, visit www.plus.espn.com.




Deontay Wilder, Tyson Fury, Jarrett Hurd, Luis Ortiz & More Share What They Are Thankful for This Thanksgiving Ahead of Saturday, December 1 SHOWTIME PPV® From STAPLES Center in Los Angeles & Presented by Premier Boxing Champions


LOS ANGELES (November 20, 2018) – For those fighting in the blockbuster night of boxing on Saturday, December 1 from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, this year’s Thanksgiving will come during the tail end of training camp for their respective matchups. While the fighters may not be able to surround themselves with their loved ones or enjoy a traditional holiday meal, they still have plenty to be thankful for.

Fighters who are competing in the Wilder vs. Fury SHOWTIME PPV and SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION from STAPLES Center discussed what they are most thankful for this time of year. The SHOWTIME PPV begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions. The night kicks off with SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION at 6:45 p.m. ET/3:45 p.m. PT live on SHOWTIME and on SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and Facebook page.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by BombZquad Enterprises and Queensberry Promotions, in association with TGB Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, are on sale now and are available via AXS.com. Wilder vs. Fury will be produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV. The suggested retail price (SRP) for the pay-per-view telecast is $64.99 for standard definition.

The event is headlined by a heavyweight world championship showdown that pits WBC champion Deontay Wilder against lineal champion Tyson Fury on SHOWTIME PPV®. The PPV undercard features unified super welterweight world champion Jarrett Hurd returning to take on Jason Welborn, Cuban heavyweight slugger Luis Ortiz facing-off against Travis Kauffman and rising heavyweight Joe Joyce battling Joe Hanks. In action on SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION are former champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and hard-hitting Alfredo Angulo in a super middleweight clash. Non-televised action will see the return of former multiple-division champion Robert Guerrero.

Here is what the fighters said they are thankful for this holiday season:

DEONTAY WILDER

“I’m just thankful for my beautiful family – my wonderful children and my beautiful lady. I’m just so thankful for all the positive energy that I’ve been receiving from my family. This is the happiest I’ve been in my life – career wise and in my personal life. I don’t have any drama and I’m ready to go December 1.”

TYSON FURY

“I’m most thankful for being alive, for being healthy and for being in a right mind. Business and jobs are very unimportant when you’ve got no health. You can be a billionaire but dying inside. It’s all irrelevant if you haven’t got your health. Because your health is your wealth. I’m very qualified to say it because I’ve been in some tough positions before. I’m just thankful to be alive.”

JARRETT HURD

“I’m thankful for my family, my team, my health and the chance to get back in the ring and do what I love on December 1. Unfortunately, no Thanksgiving for me this year. I think I’ll even be on the plane on the holiday, which is fine for me so I don’t get the urge to eat. I’m also going to do a Turkey Drive in my community and make sure that I’m giving back as much as I can.”

JASON WELBORN

“2018 has been my year. I’m thankful for my family – my wife, children, my dad and my Mom who looks over us all.

“I became British Champion in 2018, defended my title and now I’m going to shock the world in L.A. to cap a wonderful year.”

LUIS ORTIZ

“First and foremost, I’m thankful for my daughter’s health and well-being, along with my whole family. I know that in boxing, there are no holidays. Thanksgiving will be whenever it lands and whenever I have the opportunity for it. Boxing is my first love and I’m happy to be training even during this time of year.”

TRAVIS KAUFFMAN

“I’m thankful for this opportunity against Luis Ortiz; I’m thankful for my family and my three children, plus the blessing of having another baby on the way.

“I’m away from my family training in Texas and I’ll be sticking to my meal plan through Thanksgiving. This isn’t the first Thanksgiving I’ve missed though, it’s just a part of this sport. This is an opportunity of a lifetime and I’m staying focused on that. After this fight is over, I’ll make sure I get a Thanksgiving meal.”

JOE JOYCE

“I am thankful for the people I have in my life, my mum, my dad and my brothers. I’ve got a great team and my career is just taking off. I am also about to be a part of a huge event on December 1st so for all this I am very thankful.”

JOE HANKS

“I’m thankful for family, friends and the ability to help provide for my family doing by doing what I love.

“I am actually going to have a little turkey on Thanksgiving. That’s part of the whole heavyweight lie. I’m still sacrificing every day in camp and I’m looking forward to the fruits of my labor. We’ll give up Thanksgiving to have a good Christmas.”

ALFREDO ANGULO

“I’m thankful for many things this year, but at the very top of that list are my wife and kids and especially my newborn son, Alfredo Angulo Jr., my biggest blessing. I’m thankful to my team for the opportunity to compete in this great fight in December. I’m going to repay with a huge win.”

ROBERT GUERRERO

“During the holidays, I’m always grateful that I’m able to spend time with family and friends. In addition, I’m grateful for all the blessings boxing has brought me, especially this latest journey that I’m excited to start on December 1.”

# # #

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.staplescenter.com follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing @BronzeBomber, @Tyson_Fury, @TGBPromotions, @STAPLESCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports,www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.facebook.com/STAPLESCenter.




MANNY PACQUIAO VS. ADRIEN BRONER LOS ANGELES PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES


BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. – November 20, 2018 – Boxing’s only eight-division world champion Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao and former four-division champ Adrien “The Problem” Broner were all business on Tuesday as they concluded their two-city press tour in Los Angeles announcing their Saturday, January 19 showdown for Pacquiao’s WBA Welterweight World Title. The event will be produced and distributed live by SHOWTIME PPV (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Promoted by MP Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions, tickets to the Pacquiao vs. Broner welterweight world championship event will go on sale on Saturday, November 24. Tickets are priced at $1,500, $1,000, $750, $500, $300, $200, $100, not including applicable service charges, 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 are what the fighters and executives had to say on Tuesday.

MANNY PACQUIAO:

“This fight is going to be a good fight. I have to pass through him before fighting Floyd Mayweather. I want to prove to the boxing fans that Manny Pacquiao is still in the pack. You will see more fights with Manny Pacquiao here in the United States.

“He’s young and he’s fast – and he’s fast with his mouth. There will be more action in the ring – we know what the people want. It’s going to be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see a fight you will never forget.

“I continue my career as a boxer because boxing is my passion. When I hung up my gloves once, I felt sad not being in the ring and giving inspiration to people in the Philippines and boxing fans.”

On potentially fighting Floyd Mayweather again:

“I don’t think Adrien will agree with that, because I need to pass through him. This is not an easy fight.”

On working with Al Haymon:

“I have only good things to say about Top Rank – they helped me a lot. But I’m really thankful to be partnered with Al Haymon and have a chance to work with him.”

“[Broner’s] a funny guy. I think after his boxing career, he could have another career as a comedian. I don’t get upset about the jokes. I can’t help but laugh when I look at his face.”

Will the Mayweather rematch be next?

“I can’t give you an answer, but if you ask me, it would be good for me to have that fight.”

ADRIEN BRONER:

“January 19, I am coming to win. Screw the money, I’m going to be victorious. They keep talking about a Pacquiao-Mayweather 2, but I’m going to mess those plans up. I just don’t see Manny Pacquiao beating me.

“He’s still in great condition. He’s trained his ass off. I have to keep my composure and stay focused on my game plan. But I’m not going to tell you what that plan is.

“Hope isn’t my strategy – there will be no luck. I feel like he can’t beat me. Look at my resume – what do I do to southpaws? I stop them. Going into this fight, I’m very confident. I’m going to do what I always do to southpaws and dismantle him.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc.

“These two fighters have resumes that you’re all familiar with. On the surface they seem very different, but they’re more similar than you’d think.

“They’re two of the most entertaining and popular fighters in the sport. They are also two fighters who are all heart. We’ve seen them in tough fights, and there’s one thing you know you’re going to get out of Manny Pacquiao and AB, and that’s 100 percent effort throughout the fight.

“When Adrien Broner and Manny Pacquiao fight, it’s a huge event. Add in Mayweather Promotions and MGM Grand and Las Vegas, and it’s one of the biggest fights of the year. There’s a lot at stake – this will be an all action fight. It will be a special weekend, and we can’t wait.”

JOE RAMOS, Head of MP Promotions

“We all know Adrien is hungry, but he’s fighting boxing’s only eight-division champion. Manny will show the world that he’s the best fighter on the planet come January 19. Don’t miss a chance to be part of history.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“We know we have a great fight come Jan. 19. You’ll see a future Hall of Famer in Manny Pacquiao, and a guy in Adrien Broner who has never backed down from a challenge. He knows he has to be at his best to beat Manny Pacquiao. The style matchup with these two guys is very intriguing. I promise you this will be a great fight.”

RAVONE LITTLEJOHN, Co-Head of About Billions Promotions

“It’s going to be a great fight. If my man AB hits the right shot, it could be a short night. We’ve never been down for the count, and we’re not going to start now. We know the position we’re in. It’s a pleasure to fight a legend like Manny Pacquiao.”

RICHARD STRUM, President of Las Vegas Live Entertainment and Sports

“This fight kicks off another tremendous year of entertainment for MGM. I’d like to welcome Manny Pacquiao and Adrien Broner, two of the sport’s most iconic fighters, back to MGM Grand and Las Vegas.”




MURRAY-N’DAM ADDED TO MASSIVE MANCHESTER CARD


Martin Murray will face former world champion Hassan N’Dam as part of a massive night of boxing at the Manchester Arena on December 22, headlined by Josh Warrington defending his IBF world featherweight title against two-weight world champion Carl Frampton.

Murray, 37-4-1, is building towards another world title challenge, with his only career reverses having come in three previous bids – with one drawn – and against former WBA world champion George Groves.

The St Helens warrior put himself firmly in position for a tilt at the WBC title with the winning of the governing body’s Silver middleweight belt in June by defeating the champion Roberto Garcia via a unanimous decision over 12 rounds at the 02 Arena.

He is now up against a dangerous opponent in N’Dam, 36-3, who has operated at world level since winning the WBA Interim world title with a points victory over Avtandil Khurtsidze in 2010.

His winning streak continued with wins over Giovanni Lorenzo and Max Bursak – before he lost on points to Peter Quillin in 2012 with the WBO world middleweight title at stake.

The Frenchman rebuilt with four victories across 2013-14, with the fourth being a landslide points win over Curtis Stevens that qualified him for a shot at the IBF world title. A thrilling encounter with David Lemieux followed with the Canadian prevailing via the scorecards, with N’Dam showing huge bravery after being put to the canvas on four occasions by the heavy-hitting Lemieux.

A further four wins followed for the now 34-year-old before he headed to Japan in May 2017 to face London 2012 Olympic gold medallist Ry?ta Murata for the vacant WBA regular world title, which he won via a controversial split decision.

The pair rematched five months later, again on Japanese soil, where N’Dam was forced into retirement in the seventh round.

“He is obviously a good opponent and I have known about him for a while,” reacted Murray to the news of a tough night’s work being booked for him at the Manchester Arena. “He is a former world champion and a good fighter.
“It’s a good fight for me, one where I need to be on top of my game because he can box, he can move and he can fight as well. I am happy with it.

“I don’t want to be fighting in six or eight rounders against opponents who I am going to get out in two or three rounds. I need proper live opponents and this guy is one – and he will be coming to win.

“It is just the sort of fight I need.

“I am creeping my way back up there. It has been a slow rebuilding process from the Groves loss for me, but I am keeping myself afloat now and a win against this guy will keep me in the mix.”

IBF world featherweight champion Josh Warrington takes on former two-weight world champion Carl Frampton at the Manchester Arena on December 22nd live on BT Sport Box Office. Mark Heffron and Liam Williams contest the vacant British middleweight title and Belfast’s blue chip featherweight prospect Michael Conlan (9-0) takes on former commonwealth champion Jason Cunningham (24-5). In a step up, Nathan Gorman puts his undefeated record and WBC International Silver Heavyweight Title on the line against former World Title challenger Alex Leapai.

Elsewhere on the bill. world flyweight title challenger Paddy Barnes (5-1) and unbeaten Light Heavyweight contender Steven Ward (9-0) return to action. Manchester’s 12-0 Light Heavyweight Lyndon Arthur and 7-0 Darlington middleweight Troy Williamson also return.

Tickets are priced at £50 Upper Tier, £80 Tier, £100 Tier, £150 Tier, £200 Floor/Tier, £300 Floor, £400 Floor, £600 Inner Ring VIP Hospitality and are available.

Tickets available via Manchester Arena.




SHOWTIME PPV® OFFERS BLOCKBUSTER HEAVYWEIGHT FIGHT DEONTAY WILDER VS. TYSON FURY DIRECTLY TO CONSUMERS OVER THE INTERNET VIA SHOWTIME®


NEW YORK – November 20, 2018 – For the first time, Showtime Networks Inc. is offering viewers the opportunity to purchase the blockbuster WBC Heavyweight World Championship Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury on SHOWTIME PPV directly through the SHOWTIME app. Subscribers and non-subscribers will be able to purchase and live stream as WBC World Champion Wilder defends his title against lineal champion Fury via the SHOWTIME app on Apple mobile and AppleTV (4th Generation) devices, Amazon Fire TV devices, Android phones and tablets and directly on Showtime.com for $74.99 or through cable, DBS, telco and streaming providers nationwide. The showdown of undefeated heavyweights will air on Saturday, December 1 live at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles. For more information on where the fight is available and pricing per distributor, visit: SHO.com.

The bout is currently available for purchase on Showtime.com and will roll out on select platforms via the SHOWTIME app during fight week. Customers who purchase the PPV event through the SHOWTIME app and have never subscribed to the SHOWTIME streaming service will receive a 30-day free trial offer. Viewers can purchase the fight through a number of distributors including ATT U-Verse, Comcast, Cox, DirecTV, Dish, Frontier, Optimum, PlayStation Store, Spectrum, Verizon Fios and more. The Wilder vs. Fury fight will also be available through Fathom Events in movie theaters and at select bars and restaurants nationwide. Showtime Networks will continue to roll out PPV capabilities on additional streaming devices in time for the highly-anticipated SHOWTIME PPV event of Senator Manny Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner on January 19.

Wilder vs. Fury tests the raw power of Wilder against the unmatched size and mobility of Fury. America’s only heavyweight champion since 2007, Wilder has 39 knockouts in 40 professional fights, including knockouts in all seven of his title defenses. Fury is a former IBF, WBA and WBO heavyweight world champion who is undefeated in 27 professional fights and holds boxing’s coveted lineal heavyweight title.

Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBS Corporation, owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ and FLIX®, and also offers SHOWTIME ON DEMAND®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ ON DEMAND and FLIX ON DEMAND®, and the network’s authentication service SHOWTIME ANYTIME®. Showtime Digital Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of SNI, operates the stand-alone streaming service SHOWTIME®. SHOWTIME is currently available to subscribers via cable, DBS and telco providers, and as a stand-alone streaming service through Amazon, Apple®, Google, LG Smart TVs, Oculus Go, Roku®, Samsung Smart TVs and Xbox One. Consumers can also subscribe to SHOWTIME via Amazon’s Prime Video Channels, DirecTV Now, FuboTV, Hulu, Sling TV, Sony PlayStation™ Vue, and YouTube TV. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks™, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution, which offers Smithsonian Channel™, and offers Smithsonian Earth™ through SN Digital LLC. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV. For more information, go to www.SHO.com.




“Championship Boxing at the Armory” OFFICIAL WEIGHTS

DORCHESTER, Mass. (November 20, 2018) — The official weigh in was held today for tomorrow (Friday) evening’s “Championship Boxing at the Armory”, presented by Granite Chin Promotions, at the National Guard Armory in Dorchester, Massachusetts.

OFFICIAL WEIGHTS

MAIN EVENT – NEW ENGLAND CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP – 8 ROUNDS
(R) Chris Traietti (26-4, 21 KOs), Champion, Quincy, MA 194.8 lbs.
vs.
(L) Nick Lavin (5-0, 4 KOs), Challenger, Shelton, CT 196.2 lbs.

CO-FEATURE – JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS – 6 ROUNDS
Francisco Medal (12-15, 8 KOs), Uruapan, Michoacan de Campo, Mexico 147.2 lbs.
vs.
Derek “The Surgeon” Silveira (14-2, 7 KOs), Salem MA 153.4 lbs.

MIDDLEWEIGHTS – 4 ROUNDS
Ricky Ford (3-1-1, 1 KO), Claremont, NH 158 lbs.
vs.
Saul Almeida (0-10-2), Framingham, MA 164.8 lbs.

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS – 4 ROUNDS
Henry Gedney (1-0), Gloucester, MA 169.6 lbs.
vs.
Francisco Neto (0-1), Woburn, MA 167.2 lbs.

CRUISERWEIGHTS – 8 ROUNDS
Vinnie “American Nightmare” Carita (18-1-1 (17 KOs), Pembroke, MA 192 lbs.
vs.
Steve “The Spoiler” Walker (26-35, 18 KOs), Hannibal, MO 193.8 lbs.

JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS – 4 ROUNDS
Bruno Dias (0-4), Woburn, MA 144 lbs.
vs.
Ray Jay Bermudez (4-0, 2 KOs), Troy, NY 141 lbs.

MIDDLEWEIGHTS – 4 ROUNDS
Anthony Concepcion (1-0, 1 KO), Providence, RI 159.2 lbs,
vs.
Roberto “El Viejo” Valenzuela (69-72-2, 56 KOs), Aqua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico 164.2 lbs.

(all fights & fighters subject to change)

Tickets, priced at $60.00 ringside and $40.00 standing room, are available to purchase fight night at the National Guard Armory and on line at
https://eur04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=WWW.TICKETRIVER.COM&data=02%7C01%7C%7C8eadd0515808469a4cdc08d63606ecc5%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C636755800699338618&sdata=iDQvM%2FOsaWTYc1IDC3t%2B%2Fu9EtMbj8Egv1vbhT2YYqU4%3D&reserved=0.

Doors open at 6 p.m. ET with the first bout scheduled at 6:30 p.m. ET.

INFORMATION:
Facebook.com/GraniteChin
Twitter: @Granite_Chin




VIDEO: Jaron Ennis talks after his KO over Raymond Serrano




HEFFRON SPARRING LIAM SMITH, GETTING INSIDE TRACK ON LIAM WILLIAMS

MARK HEFFRON HAS locked horns in training with an informative ally as he prepares to challenge for the vacant British middleweight title against Liam Williams at the Manchester Arena on December 22.

Heffron, 21-0, last week received the welcome news that he would still be competing for the coveted Lonsdale belt against Williams, who is jumping up to 160lbs for a fight that has caused a big stir in the boxing fraternity and one of many that could potentially steal the show on the epic Josh Warrington-Carl Frampton card, live on BT Box Office.

The knockout artist from Oldham – also known as ‘Kid Dynamite’ – is now in possession of some useful inside knowledge on the workings of his opponent, otherwise known as ‘The Machine’.

Because, he shared a ring on Monday with none other than Williams’ nemesis Liam Smith, who has experienced two ultimately successful encounters with the Welshman.

“It was good, man, and I got a good solid eight rounds in with Liam where my fitness was mint,” reported the 27-year-old. “I would say I am ahead of where I thought I would be at this point.

“Yeah he has been telling me loads of things, Liam, just loads. I’ve been taking it all in when he is telling me what Liam Williams is good and bad at.

“I won’t say what, but I have picked up loads of little things myself from watching him too. So with Liam Smith telling me lots of points too I would say everything is going to plan up to now.

“I am looking forward to it,” added the WBC International title holder, who is happy that the British title remains on the line for a fight he considers to be of far greater magnitude than the one he was originally mandated for.

“I’m buzzing, Liam Williams is a big light middleweight anyway and it is a big name for me when I beat him.

“I am still getting to fight for the British and at this level I will beat them all.

“I am even more happy that it is against Liam because he is a massive name for me, much more so than Jason Welborn, and he will bring the best out in me.

“It is a much bigger fight.”

IBF world featherweight champion Josh Warrington takes on former two-weight world champion Carl Frampton at the Manchester Arena on December 22nd live on BT Sport Box Office. Mark Heffron and Liam Williams contest the vacant British middleweight title and Belfast’s blue chip featherweight prospect Michael Conlan (9-0) takes on former commonwealth champion Jason Cunningham (24-5). At heavyweight, Nathan Gorman takes a step up in class against former world title challenger Alex Leapai.

Elsewhere on the bill, world flyweight title challenger Paddy Barnes (5-1) and unbeaten Light Heavyweight contender Steven Ward (9-0) return to action. Manchester’s 12-0 Light Heavyweight Lyndon Arthur and 7-0 Darlington middleweight Troy Williamson also feature.

Tickets are priced at £50 Upper Tier, £80 Tier, £100 Tier, £150 Tier, £200 Floor/Tier, £300 Floor, £400 Floor, £600 Inner Ring VIP Hospitality and are available.

Tickets available via Manchester Arena




WBA Middleweight Champion Rob Brant Signs Co-Promotional Agreement with Top Rank


(Nov. 20, 2018) — Top Rank has signed WBA middleweight world champion Rob “Bravo” Brant to a multi-year co-promotional agreement with Greg Cohen Promotions and Rapacz Boxing, Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum announced today.

Brant, from St. Paul, Minn., defeated then-champion Ryota Murata via unanimous decision on Oct. 20 in Las Vegas, throwing a mind-boggling 1,262 punches. Brant (24-1, 16 KOs) is unbeaten as a middleweight and looking to unify the division.

Brant’s first fight under this new agreement will be announced shortly.

“I am very excited to be a part of one of the oldest and most prestigious promotions in the sport of boxing,” Brant said. “I look forward to reaching my maximum potential and maintaining my status as a world champion under Top Rank. This is a dream come true, and I will not take this opportunity for granted.”

“We are delighted to have entered into a co-promotion agreement with Greg Cohen Promotions and Rapacz Boxing to exhibit future fights for middleweight champion Rob Brant,” Arum said. “Rob is a tremendous talent, he comes with very high character, and he will be a future superstar in the United States.”

“I couldn’t be more excited about our partnership with Top Rank,” Cohen said. “They are the gold standard in our business, and with the platform that ESPN provides, Rob Brant will become a household name. We can’t wait to get started.”

“For years, as Rob developed in Minnesota, we always believed he has had the necessary intangibles to become one of the top names in this sport,” said Cory Rapacz, CEO of Rapacz Boxing. “His performance on Oct. 20 against Murata showed he has world-class talent, and now we’re confident this new partnership with the sport’s biggest platform, Top Rank on ESPN, will give him the opportunity to reach the highest levels of stardom. This is a fantastic deal for everyone involved.”

Brant, a six-year pro, turned pro following a decorated amateur career that included gold medals at the 2009 U.S. National Championships and 2010 National Golden Gloves Championships. A 178-pounder for much of his amateur career, Brant moved down to middleweight when he transitioned to the paid ranks. He won the first 22 bouts of his career before moving up to super middleweight to participate in the World Boxing Super Series, where he lost a unanimous decision to hometown favorite Juergen Braehmer in Schwerin, Germany.

He immediately returned to the more comfortable confines of the middleweight division. In March, he knocked out Colby Courter in the opening round to set up his title challenge versus Murata. Armed with a new trainer in his corner, former light heavyweight world champion Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, Brant put forth a combination punching tour de force, immediately stamping himself as an elite middleweight.




CHARLO TWINS TALK THANKSGIVING MEMORIES & TRAINING DURING HOLIDAY SEASON


BROOKLYN (November 20, 2018) – Twin world champions Jermall and Jermell Charlo will be with their family this Thanksgiving, but they’ll be unable to feast as they are deep in training for their respective matchups that headline primetime action Saturday, December 22 on FOX and FOX Deportes in Premier Boxing Champions action from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

Jermall defends his interim WBC middleweight title against Willie Monroe Jr., while WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Jermell Charlo battles Tony Harrison on the telecast that begins at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT. Luckily for the Charlo twins, they have plenty of experience training during the holiday season.

“We’ve pretty much fought on Thanksgiving all our lives,” said Jermall. “It’s a big day for our family, but we’ve always had to cut weight or train. My mom would always make a separate meal for me and Jermell. That’s one of my main memories of Thanksgiving.”

Jermall has a busy resume of fighting during the holiday season as he fought in either after Thanksgiving or in December or January every year from 2012 through 2016. This includes a world title defense two days after Thanksgiving in 2015 and his sensational knockout over Julian Williams in December 2016.

Jermell is no stranger to entering the ring this time of year either, as his pro debut came in December of 2007. He also scored victories in December 2009 and two days after Thanksgiving in 2012 before returning in January 2013. His victory over Gabriel Rosado in 2014 also came in January as he rang in the new year with a win.

“My Thanksgiving memories are definitely unique because I’m always fighting,” said Jermell. “It’s a great time to be with our whole family even if we can’t eat anything we want. The family gets all dressed up and we just have fun together.”

Despite being busy in the gym and in the ring, the Charlos have still been able to keep up the Thanksgiving traditions that make the holiday mean so much to them.

“One thing we do different is that our family always has gumbo at our Thanksgiving,” said Jermell. “That’s a tradition my mom started. The whole family looks forward to it.”

“We always have the gumbo from my mom, and we always watch an old boxing fight and the Detroit Lions game,” said Jermall. “Something about the old school Lions uniforms always feels like Thanksgiving.”

As they near another holiday fight night, and a chance to defend their titles in back-to-back fights, the Charlo brothers are thankful for all they have inside and outside of the ring.

“This is a great opportunity to shine with my brother and I’m very thankful for it,” said Jermall. “We’ve been blessed to be in this position and have a great support system around us. We’re going to make all of our hard work count.”

“I’m really thankful for my son and all of the great people I have around me,” said Jermell. “I’m thankful that I’ve created peace in myself and that I can be a happy person. I can’t wait to show my joy in that ring.”

Tickets for the show, which is being promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with DiBella Entertainment, are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com, or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

# # #

Fans can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FOX or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSports.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku.

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




PACQUIAO – BRONER LOS ANGELES PRESS CONFERENCE




Canelo vs. Rocky – WBA Super Middleweight World Championship Fight Live in U.S. Movie Theaters December 15


DENVER – November 20, 2018 – Fresh off his middleweight victory over Gennady “GGG” Golovkin, WBC, WBA, Lineal and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Champion
Canelo Alvarez (50-1-2, 34 KOs) steps up to 168 lbs. to face Rocky Fielding(27-1, 15 KOs) on Saturday, December 15. Broadcast live from the historic Madison Square Garden in New York City, boxing fans can catch all the action in their local cinemas as Canelo challenges Rocky for his WBA Super Middleweight World Title in what is certain to be a thrilling 12-round main event.

In the co-main event, middleweight knockout sensation David Lemieux (40-4, 34 KOs) will look to make a second potential Knockout of the Year performance before 2018 ends as he takes on Tureano Johnson (20-2, 14 KOs) in a scheduled 12-round battle.

Tickets for “Canelo vs. Rocky” can be purchased online at www.FathomEvents.com or at participating theater box offices.

The live broadcast of “Canelo vs. Rocky,” presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Fathom Events, is set for Saturday,December 15 at 9 p.m. ET/ 8 p.m. CT/ 7 p.m. MT/ 6 p.m. PT/ 5 p.m. AK/ 4 p.m. HI. Fans throughout the U.S. will be able to enjoy the event in more than 500 select movie theaters through Fathom’s Digital Broadcast Network (DBN). A complete list of theater locations is available on the Fathom Events website (theaters and participants are subject to change).

A 31-year-old native of Liverpool, England, Fielding will be making his U.S. debut as he defends his title against one of the biggest names in boxing. Fielding has only suffered one loss in his career as he worked his way up the division through some of the toughest fighters in the U.K. Fielding’s last fight was in July, a victory over Germany’s Tyron Zeuge to capture the WBA Super Middleweight World Title.

“This is great way to watch Canelo make history as he steps up in weight to win a world title in a third division,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions. “I’m pleased that fans will be able to watch this event at local cinemas across the nation.”

“With each of his fights broadcast in cinemas, Canelo continues to enthrall boxing fans coast to coast,” said Ray Nutt, Fathom Events CEO. “We’re pleased to partner once again with Golden Boy, and for the first time with Matchroom and DAZN, to bring this highly-anticipated bout to fans nationwide.”

Canelo vs. Rocky is a 12-round fight for the WBA Super Middleweight World Title presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Matchroom Boxing.
Lemieux vs. Johnson is a 12-round middleweight fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Eye of The Tiger Management. The event is sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING,” and Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle.” The event will take place Saturday, December 15 at Madison Square Garden in New York City and will be streamed live on DAZN.

For artwork/photos related to “Canelo vs. Rocky” visit the Fathom Events press site.

About Fathom Events
Fathom Events is the leading event cinema distributor with theater locations in all top 100 DMAs® (Designated Market Areas) and ranks as one of the largest overall theater content distributors. Owned by AMC Entertainment Inc. (NYSE: AMC), Cinemark Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CNK) and Regal Entertainment Group (NYSE: RGC), Fathom Events offers a variety of unique entertainment events in movie theaters such as live performances of the Metropolitan Opera, top Broadway stage productions, major sporting events, epic concerts, the yearlong TCM Big Screen Classics series, inspirational events and popular anime franchises. Fathom Events takes audiences behind the scenes for unique extras including audience Q&As, backstage footage and interviews with cast and crew, creating the ultimate VIP experience. Fathom Events’ live Digital Broadcast Network (“DBN”) is the largest cinema broadcast network in North America, bringing live and pre-recorded events to 975 locations and 1,578 screens in 181 DMAs. The company also provides corporations a compelling national footprint for hosting employee meetings, customer rewards events and new product launches. For more information, visit www.FathomEvents.com.

About DAZN
Globally, DAZN is a live and on-demand sports streaming service created by fans, for fans, that is leading the charge to provide access to sports anytime, anywhere. DAZN guarantees no long-term contract, no bundles, just one affordable price for access to all the service’s sports on connected devices including Smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, games consoles and PCs. DAZN is currently available in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Japan, Canada, Italy and now the U.S. at just $9.99 per month after a one-month free trial – where it is set to become a must-have service for fight fans, with 100+ fight nights already lined up from Matchroom Boxing, Bellator MMA, the World Boxing Super Series, Combate Americas and the newly announced Golden Boy Promotions.
About Golden Boy Promotions
Los Angeles-based Golden Boy Promotions was established in 2002 by Oscar De La Hoya, the first Hispanic to own a national boxing promotional company. Golden Boy Promotions is one of boxing’s most active and respected promoters, presenting shows in packed venues around the United States on networks such as HBO, ESPN, ESPN Deportes, EstrellaTV and the newly announced partnership with DAZN.




MORE TICKETS RELEASED AT STAPLES CENTER FOR DEONTAY WILDER VS. TYSON FURY HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP SHOWDOWN SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1 IN LOS ANGELES & PRESENTED BY PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS


LOS ANGELES (November 20, 2018) – Overwhelming demand has led to more tickets being released for sale to the public at STAPLES Center for the highly-anticipated heavyweight world championship clash presented by Premier Boxing Champions Saturday, December 1 between WBC champion Deontay Wilder and lineal champion Tyson Fury on SHOWTIME PPV® from Los Angeles.

The newly released tickets are priced at $125 and $75 and are on sale now. All tickets for the event, which is promoted by BombZquad Enterprises and Queensberry Promotions, in association with TGB Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, are available via AXS.com. Wilder vs. Fury will be produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV. The suggested retail price (SRP) for the pay-per-view telecast is $64.99 for standard definition.

Wilder vs. Fury tests the raw power of the 6-foot-7 Wilder against the unmatched size and mobility of the 6-foot-9 Fury in the most significant heavyweight event in the U.S. in more than 15 years. America’s only true heavyweight champion since 2007, Wilder has 39 knockouts in 40 professional fights, including knockouts in all seven of his title defenses. Fury is a former IBF, WBA and WBO heavyweight world champion who is undefeated in 27 professional fights and holds boxing’s coveted lineal heavyweight title.

The PPV undercard features unbeaten unified super welterweight world champion Jarrett Hurd returning to take on Jason Welborn, Cuban heavyweight slugger Luis Ortiz facing-off against Travis Kauffman and rising undefeated heavyweight Joe Joyce battling Joe Hanks.

# # #

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.staplescenter.com follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing @BronzeBomber, @Tyson_Fury, @TGBPromotions, @STAPLESCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports,www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.facebook.com/STAPLESCenter.




Chance of a lifetime for heavyweight prospect Alexander “The Great” Flores Hits road to face former world champion Joseph Parker

LAS VEGAS (November 20, 2018) – Former World Boxing Organization (WBO Youth World Heavyweight Champion Alexander “The Great” Flores, promoted by Roy Jones, Jr. Boxing (RJJ), has an opportunity of a lifetime December 15, when the gifted 28-year-old Mexican-American travels halfway around the world to take on former world heavyweight titlist Joseph Parker in New Zealand.

Fighting out of Rowland Heights, California, the heavy-handed Flores (17-1-1, 15 KOs) is confident as he trains at home to face Parker in his backyard.

“There is no way this fight goes 10 rounds,” Flores said. “I’m going to knock him out. A lot of people might not have heard of Alexander ‘The Great’ Flores yet, but they’ll all know who I am after December 15th.”

Flores’ lone loss as a professional came 3 ½ years ago against former world champion Charles Martin for the North American Boxing Association (NABF) crown. Flores, who took the fight with only two weeks’ notice, was stopped in the fourth round.

“Alexander can dramatically change his life by defeating Parker and we’re confident he can go to New Zealand and pull off an upset,” said Keith Veltre, co-promoter of Roy Jones, Jr. Boxing. “Alexander has power in both hands and he will certainly test Parker’s chin. Flores isn’t going over there just for a paycheck, he’s going to send shockwaves throughout the boxing world.”

An impressive victory against Parker, who has lost his last two fights against unified world champion Anthony Joshua and Dillian White, should propel Flores high in the competitive heavyweight division.

“I’m really glad that Alex is coming to New Zealand full of confidence,” remarked Parker, who is training in Las Vegas. “For me, boxing is all about the challenge, and this is another big one. I know what is at stake. I need to win and win well. I need to knock him out and I will knock him out, but I can’t focus on that. I need to focus on getting better each and every time I get in the ring.”

Parker has never been knocked out as a pro and he’ll be fighting at home for the first time in 1 ½ years.

“After a five-year undefeated run that took Joe all the way to the WBO World title, we now find ourselves in very unusual territory, coming off back-to-back loses,” Parker’s head trainer Kevin Barry noted. “Joe has never been in this position before and needs a top performance. Joe finds himself under huge pressure to not only win this fight, but to win big and get his career back on track.

“These guys (Parker and Flores) are the same height (6’ 4”) and both pack a serious punch, so it stacks up as a great contest. This is a dangerous fight, one that Joseph Parker is fighting for his career.”

Parker, however, may be looking past Flores, according to his recent statements in the media. First, Parker called out Tony Bellew, who just lost to undisputed, undefeated world cruiserweight champion Oleksandr Usyk, and then the big New Zealander said he’d like to fight the winner of Whyte-Derek Chisora II.

Meanwhile, Flores is training like Rocky to make a major statement, one that promises to surprise a lot of boxing fans.

INFORMATION:
Websites: http://www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com
Twitter: @RoyjonesJRfa, @alexflores919
Instagram: @RoyJonesJRboxing, @artofmusiclv, @rivalboxinggear, alexander_thegreat_flores

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/RJJBoxing

About Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions:

Co-founded in 2013 by 10-time world champion Roy Jones, Jr. and Keith Veltre, Roy Jones, Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions is on its way to reinventing boxing. RJJ has already made a huge impact in the boxing community in a few short years. Creating exhilarating content for CBS Sports, Showtime, ESPN and beIN Sports in some of the finest venues across the country, RJJ has proven it is conquering the sweet science of the sport.

Based in the fight capital of the world, Las Vegas, NV, Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions is climbing to the top at a fast pace, adding young talent to its growing stable: super bantamweight Joseph Agbeko, super flyweight Aston Francis Palicite, super welterweights John Vera and Daniel Rosario Cruz, super featherweight Randy Moreno, bantamweights Max Ornelas and Tony Lopez, cruiserweight Adrain Taylor and middleweight Shady Gamhour, featherweight Edward Vazquez, super lightweight Kendo Castaneda and heavyweight Alexander Flores.




YAFAI: I WANT UNIFICATION FIGHTS IN 2019

Kal Yafai is targeting unification fights with the Super-Flyweight division’s other World Champions in 2019 should he get past Mexico’s Israel Gonzalez this Saturday at the Casino de Monte-Carlo in Monaco.

The unbeaten Birmingham star puts his WBA crown on the line for the fourth time against former World title challenger Gonzalez, live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US, and is planning on delivering an explosive performance to end the year with a bang.

“The most important thing is winning and looking good in doing so,” said Yafai. “There’s some huge fights to be made in 2019 so I just need to get in there and do what I do best and impress. I’ll be looking to put on an explosive performance to end the year in style.

“Gonzalez looks like a tough fighter and he looks dangerous on the counter. From his record you can tell that he’s durable, so I’ve got to be on it. I’ll need to put in a solid performance to deal with him.

“I expect him to be looking to counter early on but then as the first three or four rounds go by, if it goes that far, he’ll realise that he can’t outbox me or counter me. He’ll have to resort to coming forward and applying pressure which won’t work out for him very well.”

Yafai emphatically announced himself in the US when he stopped David Carmona in seven rounds on his American debut at the Save Mart Arena in California earlier this year and is keen to fight in the States again next year.

“I really enjoyed my American debut. It was an exciting fight to be involved in and entertaining for the fans. Hopefully on Saturday I’ll do a good job on this guy, look good, and then head back over to America next year and get some big fights.

“I love the States and I love being over there. I’m looking forward to going back over there and impressing once again. I need to get the job done on Saturday and then we can look forward to an exciting 2019.”

Saturday will be the second World title attempt for Gonzalez (23-2, 10 KO’s) after he was stopped in ten rounds by IBF kingpin Jerwin Ancajas Bank of America Center in Texas. The feisty Filipino southpaw is no stranger to these shores having wiped out Jamie Conlan in 2017 and Yafai is eager for a blockbuster showdown with the Manny Pacquiao-promoted fighter.

“Jerwin Ancajas and Sor Rungvisai are obviously the two names that stick out,” added Yafai. “They hold the IBF and WBC belts so I’d like a crack at either of them next year. Donnie Nietes and Kazuto Ioka are fighting for the Vacant WBO title on New Year’s Eve so the winner of that is another option.

“Roman Gonzalez is still a massive name in the division and that would be a huge fight for me that would bring a lot of money to the table. It’s an exciting time to be fighting at 115lbs and I just need to make sure that I shine on Saturday.”

Yafai’s clash with Gonzalez is part of a huge night of action in Monaco.

Main event sees dangerous Russian Denis Lebedev defend his WBA Cruiserweight World title against undefeated American Mike Wilson.

Former World title challenger Frank Buglioni takes on undefeated Chinese amateur star Fanlong Meng for the IBF Inter-Continental Light-Heavyweight title.

Fresh from a shock win over highly-touted Heavyweight prospect Martin Bakole, America’s Michael Hunter steps in to face Russia’s Alexander Ustinov and Kazakhstan’s Rio Olympic gold medallist Daniyar Yeleussinov faces Marcos Mojica in his fifth professional contest.




Top Rank Signs Vijender Singh


(Nov. 19, 2018) — Vijender Singh, a three-time Indian Olympian, 2008 Olympic bronze medalist, and current unbeaten super middleweight contender has signed a multi-year agreement with Top Rank, Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum announced today.

Singh (10-0, 7 KOs), who has fought all but one of his professional bouts in India and England, will make his debut under the Top Rank banner in early 2019.

“Top Rank is very excited to enter into a contract with Vijender,” Arum said. “We intend to make him a big star in the United States and look forward to him participating in major events in India, where he is already a major superstar.”

“I am really excited to be on board with Bob Arum and Top Rank,” Singh said. “I have always wanted to work with someone who is the best in the business, and I know Top Rank has been the driving force behind boxing’s biggest superstars, including Oscar De La Hoya, Floyd Mayweather, and Miguel Cotto. I am eagerly waiting a date for my U.S. debut to take on the world and keep the Indian flag on the world boxing map fluttering high. I also want to thank Mr. Neerav Tomar and IOS Boxing Promotions for helping get me to this point of my professional career, and I look forward to working with Top Rank.”

“We at IOS are thrilled to be signing with the top boxing promoter in the world today, Mr. Bob Arum,” said Tomar, CEO of IOS Boxing Promotions. “There was only one choice when we decided to go with a promoter in United States, and Bob has done so much for professional boxers over the years and has been instrumental in building the careers of so many of the best boxers in the world today. We are honored to be promoted by him, and we look forward to a great future and shaping Vijender as a force to be reckoned with in the world of professional boxing.”

Singh, 33, turned pro in 2015 following an extensive amateur career that made him a mainstream celebrity in India, which included stints in Bollywood films and on the popular Indian dance reality show, “Nach Baliye.” But it was Singh’s in-the-ring accomplishments that set him apart. As an 18-year-old, he represented his homeland as a light welterweight at the 2004 Olympics in Athens. Four years later, at the Beijing Olympics and fighting as a middleweight, Singh captured a bronze medal to become India’s first Olympic boxing medalist. During the 2008 Olympics, he defeated Badou Jack, a current light heavyweight contender and former two-weight world champion.

Singh went on to capture bronze at the 2009 World Championships (where he defeated current top middleweight contender Sergiy Derevyanchenko), gold at the 2010 Asian Games, and qualified for the 2012 Olympics.

As a professional, he’s captured WBO Asia Pacific and Oriental super middleweight honors. He last fought on Dec. 23, 2017, scoring a shutout 10-round decision against tough Ghanaian Ernest Amuzu at the Sawai Mansingh Indoor Stadium in Jaipur, India. Armed with Top Rank’s backing, Singh is hoping to become India’s first professional world champion. That journey begins in 2019.




Chris Algieri, Joe DeGuardia and Mike Stanton to be featured speakers at Ring 8 Meeting this Tuesday night at O’Neils Restaurant in Maspeth, New York


New York (November 19, 2018) – Former world junior welterweight champion champion Chris Algieri; his promoter Joe DeGuardia of Star Boxing and author Mike Stanton will be the featured guest speakers this Tuesday night at the Ring 8 meeting at O’Neill’s Restaurant in Maspeth, New York (64-21 53rd Dr, Maspeth, NY 11378) beginning at 7 PM

“All of our meetings have great guest speakers, but this one will be outstanding” said Ring8 president Jack Hirsch. “Chris Algieri will be boxing at the end of the month and will speak in detail about his latest comeback as well as his career. His promoter Joe DeGuardia will not only be talking about Algieri’s future plans, but also the other fighters who Star Boxing promotes. New York Times best selling author Mike Stanton will talk about his latest book, UNBEATEN, on former world heavyweight champion Rocky Marciano. The book has material on Marciano, that is revealing and has never before been published. Books will be available for sale.”

Algieri, who will be making his return to the ring on November 30th at the Paramount in Huntington, New York will discuss his career as he has forged a championship career in the ring as well as being a coveted health guru to many other world champions.

Former World Boxing Organization (WBO) Jr. Welterweight Boxing Champion, ISKA World Welterweight Kickboxing Champion and WKA World Super Welterweight World Kickboxing Champion, with over 13 years professional fight experience. Been featured on HBO PPV, HBO Boxing After Dark, NBC Primetime, Showtime EXTREME, PBC on Spike, ESPN Friday Night Fights, and NBC Sports.
Algieri established himself as the ‘Pride of Huntington’, fighting in Long Island, NY just miles from his hometown of Greenlawn at The Paramount Theater in Huntington, NY, selling out the Theater eight consecutive times. He then went on to headline HBO’s Boxing After Dark, where he staged Ring Magazine’s Upset of 2014, by defeating Ruslan Provodnikov to win the WBO Super Lightweight World title at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. This led to the biggest fight of his life…

In only his 21st Professional Boxing match; Chris moved up in weight to fight the future Hall of Famer, Manny Pacquiao, in Macao China on HBO Pay Per View. Chris dropped the decision to the Philippino Great, but earned much respect in defeat. The world tour that preceded the build up to fight night saw 7 countries and exposed Chris to countless fans from all over the world.

Joining Algieri will be his longtime promoter Joe DeGuardia.

DeGuardia, who is the President of Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing has promoted countless world champions and championship fights over the past two-plus decades.

Joe began promoting boxing fights in 1992, founding Star Boxing, a boxing promotional company originally based in the Bronx, NY. For the last 26 years, DeGuardia has been professionally active in the boxing industry promoting. Past and present, boxers promoted by Star Boxing include former world champion Antonio Tarver, two time World Champion and 2008 US Olympian Demetrius Andrade, former WBO Jr. Welterweight champion Chris Algieri, former IBF Welterweight champion Joshua Clottey, former Heavyweight contender Vinny Maddalone and former WBC International Light Heavyweight champ Joe Smith Jr.. In 2016, DeGuardia moved Star Boxing’s offices to White Plains, NY.

Stanton will be talking about his terrific book titled “Unbeaten,” which is a story about Rocky Marciano – The son of poor Italian immigrants, with short arms and stubby legs, Rocky Marciano accomplished a feat that eluded legendary heavyweight champions like Joe Louis, Jack Dempsey, Muhammad Ali, and Mike Tyson: He never lost a professional fight. His record was a perfect 49-0.
Unbeaten is the story of this remarkable champion who overcame injury, doubt, and the schemes of corrupt promoters to win the title in a bloody and epic battle with Jersey Joe Walcott in 1952. Rocky packed a devastating punch with an innocent nickname, “Suzie Q,” against which there was no defense. As the champ, he came to know presidents and movie stars – and the organized crime figures who dominated the sport, much to his growing disgust. He may have “stood out in boxing like a rose in a garbage dump,” as one sportswriter said, but he also fought his own private demons.

In the hands of the award-winning journalist and biographer Mike Stanton, Unbeaten is more than just a boxing story. It’s a classic American tale of immigrant dreams, exceptional talent wedded to exceptional ambitions, compromises in the service of a greater good, astounding success, disillusionment, and a quest to discover what it all meant. Like Suzie Q, it will knock you off your feet.

ABOUT RING 8: Ring 8 became the eighth subsidiary of what was then known as the National Veteran Boxers Association – hence, RING 8 – and today the organization’s motto still remains: Boxers Helping Boxers.
RING 8 is fully committed to supporting less fortunate people in the boxing community who may require assistance in terms of paying rent, medical expenses, or whatever justifiable need.

Go on line to www.Ring8ny.com for more information about RING 8, the largest group of its kind in the United States with more than 350 members. Annual membership dues is only $30.00 and each member is entitled to a buffet dinner at RING 8 monthly meetings, excluding July and August. All active boxers, amateur and professional, with a current boxing license or book are entitled to a complimentary RING 8 yearly membership. Guests of Ring 8 members are welcome at a cost of only $10.00 per person.




MANNY PACQUIAO VS. ADRIEN BRONER PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES


NEW YORK – November 19, 2018 – Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao and Adrien “The Problem” Broner announced their Saturday, January 19 mega-fight during the first leg of a two-city press tour at New York City’s Gotham Hall on Monday. The welterweight championship showdown will be produced and distributed live by SHOWTIME PPV (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Boxing’s only eight-division world champion, Pacquiao will end his two-year hiatus from a U.S. boxing ring when he returns to Las Vegas to defend his WBA Welterweight World Title against former four-division world champion and must-see attraction Broner.

Promoted by MP Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions, tickets to the Pacquiao vs. Broner welterweight world championship event will go on sale on Saturday, November 24. Tickets are priced at $1,500, $1,000, $750, $500, $300, $200, $100, not including applicable service charges, 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 are what the fighters and executives had to say on Monday.

MANNY PACQUIAO:

“I just want to prove that I’m still in boxing and my journey in boxing is continuing. I want to entertain people and give a good show on January 19. You don’t want to miss the opportunity to see this great and prestigious fight in the ring with Adrien Broner. I know my opponent is fast and a top caliber fighter, he’s good and we have to work hard and train hard for this fight so the people will be happy. We will give a good fight for the fans.

“I chose Broner because we can have a good fight and entertain the fans. Adrien is a top caliber fighter and a good boxer. We cannot underestimate him.

“When I met up with Floyd [Mayweather] in Japan, we talked and he said he wants to come out of retirement to challenge me. All I know is fighting in the ring and entertaining people. That’s my job. Floyd has come out of retirement and we’ll see after this fight, but we cannot underestimate Broner and this fight. We will discuss anything with Floyd Mayweather after that.

“I can fight at 140 pounds or 147 pounds and I want to fight the biggest fighters in the world and one of those is Adrien Broner. I can fight anybody.

“I expect more action in the ring, that’s what we want. We don’t talk too much outside the ring but we will do it in the ring.

“Yes, I still have the [knock out] power. In fact, I have learned how to develop that and by the grace of god, who has given me this power and with hard work and training, that technique is my weapon for this fight.

“I have already accomplished my dream and what I want to accomplish in this sport. I just want to continue in the top of boxing and give honor to my country.”

ADRIEN BRONER:

“I’m real thankful hearing that he was coming over to PBC, ‘Pacquiao’s Broner Crisis’. I’m happy – there are a lot of people that wanted this fight and god blessed me to get it. I guess I’m just the chosen one. What can I say about Pacquiao, he’s a future Hall of Famer.

“I had to call my momma after I looked in the mirror this morning. I had to let her know she has a beautiful son. We finally made it to pay-per-view at 29. I’m the only African-American do to that.

“It’s going to be a hell of a fight. I’m not coming to just pick up a check. I know when I win this fight, there’s more money to come.

“This fight means a lot to me. A win and I turn legend overnight. I got the whole hood with me just like he has the whole Philippines with him. I don’t even know how to spell that. But I have the whole hood with me: H-O-O-D.

“Of course I consider Manny one of the elite fighters at 147. The things he’s done in this game are unbelievable. I talk trash, I play but I know on January 19 I have to be on top of my game. This is his break-out fight to be on the A-side. I know he isn’t trying to look bad. But I’m here to knock him out. I feel like a bum trying to fight for a sandwich.

“I’m not worried about what Manny does. He has to worry about what I’m doing. I have three losses and he has eight. But he has been knocked out three times so we know he can go to sleep. He doesn’t need Nyquil for that, and I have the power to do it. He better be on his p’s and q’s because I’m trying to knock him out.

“If the knockout comes, it comes. I’m just focused on my win. I’m trying to win in good fashion. I’m going to train my ass off and give it my all.

“This fight is very important from a business standpoint and for About Billions. A lot of young fighters want to work with me and I have to show them the way. As a leader, if I win this fight it gives them something to brag about. I’m not only fighting for me, I’m fighting for my family and my kids. It’s the longevity, it’s for after boxing. I have a chance to set myself up so that my kids’ kids can live comfortably.

“We’re boxers. We’re not afraid of nobody. We bleed the same, we walk the same, we put our pants on one at a time. There’s nothing to be afraid of. I’m trying to knock this guy out. I might laugh, I might play around but I’m trying to get him out of here.

“Every fighter is different. I don’t compare fighters to each other. Every fighter has their good habits and their bad habits. All around, he’s a great fighter. He’s done something that nobody has ever done in the sport but it’s time to turn over a new leaf. Adrien Broner will be the biggest name in boxing.

“I feel good at any weight. I feel strong. I will let everything show January 19. It’s going to be a hell of a fight. I just want to beat the man in great fashion. It’s nothing personal, it’s just for me so I can wake up and say I beat Manny Pacquiao.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc.

“SHOWTIME is thrilled to be hosting this press conference and to be bringing this matchup of two must-see fighters – there is a very short list of must-see attractions, and of course these two active fighters are on the top of the list.

“Boxing’s only eight-division world champion taking on the youngest boxer ever to be a four-division world champion. We would like to welcome Manny Pacquiao back to SHOWTIME, back to the U.S. as this is his first fight in the U.S. in two years. These two are perennial draws at the box office, ratings, and in the streets. Two of the most well-known, widely recognized boxers in the sport of boxing. Two of the most athletically gifted fighters in the sport – power, speed, quickness, they have it all.

“At this point, odds makers have favored Pacquiao. That’s understandable because he is a Hall of Famer with a Hall of Fame resume. But it would be a mistake to overlook Broner in this fight. Broner never backs down from a challenge. As long as I’ve known him and worked with him he’s never turned down a fight, not against bigger opponents like Shawn Porter, not against big punchers like Marcos Maidana, not against the guys that no one wants to fight. Broner gives them tough fights: 12 rounds against Porter, 12 grueling rounds against Maidana. So for those of you that think this is an easy fight, or easy bet because of the odds, think again. These are two of the most talented fighters of this generation, two of the most athletically gifted fighters of this generation. I guarantee this fight will be a must-see attraction.”

JOE RAMOS, Head of MP Promotions

“This is a fight that we’ve been trying to make for several years. Our new partnership with the great Al Haymon and the PBC has finally made this possible. I’d like to thank Al and his team for making this happen. I’d like to acknowledge our new partners in this fight, Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions, our broadcast partner SHOWTIME and Manny’s home away from home, the MGM Grand. To Team Broner, thanks for stepping up to the plate. I hope you have a great training camp and I wish you all the best. To Senator Manny, thank you for giving all your fans this opportunity to showcase your greatness and show you are still the best fighter in the world.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“This is a huge fight. I can’t say enough about what I personally think will be the biggest fight of 2019. You have Manny Pacquiao, a future Hall of Famer, who’s fought everybody in this era against Adrien Broner, one of the most exciting fighters in the sport. He’s the biggest attraction with the biggest ratings and never shy about the cameras. This will be a great promotion. We expect the fans across the world to tune in to this great event. Will Manny Pacquiao be able to use his plethora of experience to defeat a young Adrien Broner whose still in the prime of his career? Or will Adrien Broner be able to utilize his outstanding speed and his skillset to defeat the legendary Hall of Famer, Manny Pacquiao? Tune in, SHOWTIME PPV on January 19.”

RAVONE LITTLEJOHN, Co-Head of About Billions Promotions

“This is the biggest fight that we’ve been involved with, so I would like to thank everybody involved. Adrien knows what he needs to do. I’ve been with him since we were 18-years-old and we’ve been through a lot. I’ve never seen him back down from anything and anybody who’s watched him fight knows that. We look forward to bringing it and we’re going to bring it. I’m very happy to be in this position and we’re going to go far.”

About Showtime Networks Inc.

Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBS Corporation, owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ and FLIX®, and also offers SHOWTIME ON DEMAND®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ ON DEMAND and FLIX ON DEMAND®, and the network’s authentication service SHOWTIME ANYTIME®. Showtime Digital Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of SNI, operates the stand-alone streaming service SHOWTIME®. SHOWTIME is currently available to subscribers via cable, DBS and telco providers, and as a stand-alone streaming service through Apple®, Roku®, Amazon, Google and Samsung. Consumers can also subscribe to SHOWTIME via Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling TV, Sony PlayStation® Vue and Amazon Channels. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks™, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution, which offers Smithsonian Channel™, and offers Smithsonian Earth™ through SN Digital LLC. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV®. For more information, go to www.SHO.com

About Premier Boxing Champions

The Premier Boxing Champions series was created and is produced by Haymon Sports, LLC. It features the most accomplished and decorated array of international professional boxing talent across the most popular weight divisions.

About MGM Grand Garden Arena

The MGM Grand Garden Arena is home to concerts, championship boxing and premier sporting and special events. The Arena offers comfortable seating for as many as 16,800 with excellent sightlines and state-of-the-art acoustics, lighting and sound. Prominent events to date have included world championship fights between Evander Holyfield and Mike Tyson as well as Floyd Mayweather vs. Canelo Alvarez as well as Floyd Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquaio; and concerts by The Rolling Stones, Madonna, Elton John, Bruce Springsteen, Paul McCartney, Bette Midler, George Strait, Justin Timberlake, Beyonce, U2, Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, Coldplay, Alicia Keys, Jimmy Buffett and the Barbra Streisand Millennium Concert. The MGM Grand Garden Arena also has been home to annual events including the Academy of Country Music Awards, the Billboard Music Awards, iHeartRadio Music Festival, Pac-12 Men’s Basketball Championship and Frozen Fury NHL pre-season games hosted by the Los Angeles Kings.




ATLANTIC CITY BOXING HALL OF FAME ANNOUNCE THEIR CLASS OF 2019

Atlantic City, N.J. – November 19, 2018 – The Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame (ACBHOF) has announced its 2019 Induction Class. The Induction Weekend will take place at The Claridge, a Radisson Hotel located at Park Place & Boardwalk in Atlantic City, New Jersey on June 21 – 23, 2019.

“We’re extremely excited about the Class of 2019 and are very much looking forward to paying tribute to the new inductees in Atlantic City at our 3rd annual induction weekend next June” said ACBHOF President and Founder Ray McCline.

The 2019 inductees in the Fighter category are:

Bernard Hopkins Tim Witherspoon, Sr.
Kevin Watts Virgil Hill, Sr.
Iran Barkley John Brown
Roberto Duran, Sr. Micky Ward

Trainers and Cutmen:

Ace Marotta English “Bouie” Fisher

Non-Participants–Special Contributors:

Butch Lewis Bobby Goodman
Stan Hoffman Nigel Collins
Henry Hascup Jimmy Binns Sr.
Tom Kaczmarek Tony Orlando Jr.
Rhonda Utley-Herring

Bernard Hopkins will be inducted into his first Hall of Fame as part of the third annual class that will include a total of 19 inductees.

“I feel appreciated and it’s starting to settle in that I’m near that mark of living legend. I don’t see myself as a living legend. Let other people decide that. This is a great honor and I’m grateful for the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame for making this happen,” Hopkins said in a November 16 RingTV interview with Joseph Santoliquito.

“Watch who you co-sign for; you can’t sell me black to get in the door. You can’t sell me white to get in the door. You can’t sell me half white or half black or none of that to get in the door. But you can sell me LOYALTY” said former two-division champion Bernard Hopkins.

The 3rd Annual Induction Ceremony & Celebration Weekend will honor some of the world’s most iconic figures from the sport of boxing: Butch Lewis, Nigel Collins, English “Bouie” Fisher and New Jersey Boxing Hall of Fame’s President Henry Hascup are just a few named who will be enshrined with the 2019 induction class.

Inductees will be named in three categories: Fighter, Trainer & Cut-Men and Special Contributors.

“It was a great honor to hear I was going to be inducted into Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame. Atlantic City is my second home, and as a pro fighter I’ve fought numerous times in this great city. It’s a great boxing town and it is an honor to be inducted into the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame” says Micky Ward.

Over the next several weeks there will be updates on the schedule of events, room packages and expected VIP appearances on the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame and the Claridge Hotel websites and social media platforms.

For more information on the Hall of Fame’s 3rd Annual Induction Weekend please contact the ACBHOF at (609) 318 -3188 or acbhof@gmail.com, or visit on Facebook Instagram and on Twitter.

ACBHOF is pleased to recognize our partners:




Tori Nelson to defend UBF Middleweight title against Sanna Turunen in Saturday, December 1st at The Entertainment and Sports Arena in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. (November 19, 2018) – Tori Nelson will defend her UBF Middleweight world championship against Sanna Turunen in the ten-round co-main event on Saturday night, December 1st at The Entertainment and Sports Arena in Washington, D.C.

That title bout will be the chief support fight to the previously announced main event between the returning Dusty Harrison taking on James Winchester in a ten-round super welterweight bout.

Nelson of Ashburn, Virginia has a record of 18-2-3 with three knockouts.

The 42 year-old Nelson is an eight-year professional who won the WBC Super Welterweight title with a 10-round split decision over Lorissa Rivers on July 29, 2011. On February 11, 2012 Nelson won the WIBA Middleweight title with a unanimous decision over Vashon Living.

On September 13, 2013, Nelson won the WIBA Welterweight title with a unanimous decision over Aleksandra Magdziak Lopez (10-1). Nelson made four defenses of the title over the likes of Kali Reis (5-1) and Mia St. John.

Nelson also captured the UBF Welterweight, Super Welterweight, Middleweight and Super Middleweight world titles, which included a win over undefeated and current world champion Alicia Napoleon.

Nelson has shared the ring with world champions Claressa Shields and Christina Hammer. Nelson is coming off a 6th round stoppage over Tiffany Woodward on August 4th in Sterling Virginia.

“I have been lucky to travel the country, fighting for, and defending my world titles. I have fought everywhere, but surprisingly, living in Ashburn, VA, I have never fought in DC. Now to be a part of this groundbreaking show at the Arena of the Washington Mystics is very special to me. My opponent lost in her first chance at a world title, and I know she does not want to lose a second time. What she does not yet know is that she is traveling a long way to fight me, and I will do everything in my power to make sure that’s she does not leave with my belt,” said Nelson.

Turunen of Tuusula, Finland has a record of 4-1-1 with one knockout.

Turunen is coming off a loss to Hannah Rankin on June 16th in England.

Also on the will be 2018 National Golden Gloves champion Kiante Irving (2-0, 2 KOs) of Beaver Falls Pa, in a four round super middleweight bout against George Sheppard (1-4-1) of Virginia,

Irving, 24 years old, has had two consecutive 1st round stoppages, including his last bout when he took out Brandon Clark on October 20th in Pittsburgh.

“In the amateurs, I traveled everywhere, but never fought in D.C. I know that the audience here is as knowledgeable about boxing as any city in the country. I am hoping to put on a good show for them, and earn some new fans from DC. I am extremely grateful to the promoters, Erwin Pendergrast and Sean Magruder to give me this opportunity.”

In an eight-round bout, Alexander Johnson (16-4-1, 7 KOs) will take on Mengistu Zarzar (6-5-1, 5 KOs) of Palmer Park, MD in a light heavyweight bout.

In six-round bouts:

Kareem Martin (10-2, 3 KOs) of Washington, DC takes on Juan Arturo Esquivel (10-8, 2 KOs) of Chihuahua, Mexico in a welterweight bout.

Sam Crossed (7-0, 5 KOs) of Greenbelt, MD will fight Twon Smith (3-1, 2 KOs) of Oklahoma City, OK in a cruiserweight contest

In four-round bouts:

Antonio Magruder (5-0, 4 KOs) of Washington, DC will fight Gabriel Gutierrez (7-5, 3 KOs) of El Paso, Texas.

George Harris of Washington, DC will make his pro debut against Lamar Lewis (0-3) of Arkansas in a heavyweight bout.

Jordan White (5-1, 4 KOs) of Washington, DC will take on an opponent to be named in a super welterweight fight.

Tyrell Boyd of Baltimore, MD will take on an opponent to be named in a middleweight contest.

Tricky Entertainment has been promoting music, entertainment and lifestyle events in D.C. for the past ten years, and is run by Erwin Pendergrast.

DCFightNight is run by Sean Magruder, and this will be his second boxing show in DC.

The Matchmaker is Chris Middendorf.

Ticket Prices begin at $45 and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.