Super bantamweight action hero Jesse Angel Hernandez has entered the IBF’s world rankings at #14 and is now gunning for their champion, Australia via Ireland’s
TJ Doheny.

In the last year and a half, Hernandez (12-1, 7 KOs), a southpaw from Fort Worth, Texas, has turned in three sensational Showtime-televised performances.

In August 2017, he stopped then-undefeated Russian Vladimir Tikhonov in five rounds. Then in November 2017, he took the undefeated 0 of Batlimore’s Glenn Dezurn via unanimous decision. Finally, Hernandez cemented his status as a TV favorite with a thrilling split decision over the very game Ernesto Garza III in January of this year.

27-year-old Hernandez says he’s happy with his career trajectory, working with promoter Dmitriy Salita.

“The plan has always been to fight for a world title and become a world champion!” said Hernandez. “I beat several top-rated and world-rated contenders already and if I need to beat some more before I get my shot, it’s no problem. Knowing that I’ve cracked the top 15 lets me know that we are headed in the right direction and my time is coming. Whoever it is I fight, I know that I must be 100 percent ready. There are no easy fights at this level and I will continue to show that I am the best super bantamweight in the world.”

His promoter, Dmitriy Salita, says that Hernandez will have a great 2019.

“Jesse is one of the best and most exciting fighters in the super bantamweight division. His aggressive, exciting style and world-class body punching make him a real attraction in this environment. Jesse is a Mexican American with a growing fan base. The sky is the limit for him next year.”

About Salita Promotions

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

HOLLYWOOD, Fla. (Nov. 8, 2018) – On Friday, Nov. 30, at Hard Rock Event Center at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla., promoter Kris Lawrence and The Heavyweight Factory, in association with All Star Boxing, return with “Rumble at the Rock III.”

A stacked night of Florida boxing will feature Colombian Bantamweight Champion Yeison Vargas (17-0, 12 KOs) of Cartagena, Colombia taking on WBO Latino Bantamweight Champion Ricardo Espinoza (21-2, 18 KOs) in a 10-rounder for the WBO-NABO Championship.

In the 10-round welterweight co-main event, Derrieck Cuevas (18-0-1, 14 KOs) of Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, will face well-known Miami via Barranquilla, Colombia, veteran Breidis “Khanqueror” Prescott (31-14, 22 KOs).

Yeison Vargas, 28, goes by the ring name “El Mulo” and is the current Colombian Bantamweight Champion. He won the title in his last fight, a KO 2 over Mauricio Fuentes in April. In his three-year professional career, the undefeated Vargas has also held the Colombian Super Bantamweight Championship. He stands 5 feet 5 ½ inches tall and knocks out 71 percent of his opponents.

“I want to thank Kris Lawrence of The Heavyweight Factory and my manager, Angel, for putting this deal together for me,” said Vargas. “They call me the mule ‘El Mulo.’ I am an action fighter with concrete in my fists. I respect Ricardo, but come Nov. 30, I’m going to knock him out on national television. Don’t blink.”

Ricardo Espinoza, 21, goes by the ring name “Hindu.” He will be looking to continue the momentum he started in his last fight by knocking out crowd favorite Daniel Lozano in two rounds last August in Tampa. The nationally televised destruction of Lozano won him the WBO Latino Bantamweight title. Espinoza stands 5 feet 7 inches tall and knocks out 78 percent of his opponents.

“I am coming to Florida once again to show the world that Mexico is above Colombia in boxing, and I am coming to take his undefeated record away,” said Espinoza. “I want to become a household name and shine on Telemundo. I want to thank All Star Boxing and The Heavyweight Factory for putting me on this stage. I will not disappoint. Vargas is going down.”

“I’d like to thank Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood and our friends at All Star Boxing and Boxeo Telemundo,” said Heavyweight Boxing Promoter Kris Lawrence. “We’re very excited to be back home here at the Hard Rock Event Center for our last show of the year. It has been a great year of boxing in South Florida, and I hope the fans enjoy this great event. 2019 will be a great year for boxing.”

“I’m happy to be working with Tutico and Ruben, they are my dear friends,” said Henry Rivalta, Director of Boxing Operations for the Heavyweight Factory. “In this business, we have to work together for the betterment of the sport. The fights are action packed as usual, and we expect a sold-out arena come Nov. 30. I’d like to thank Kris Lawrence for his support of boxing in our community.”

Tickets cost $500, $200, $150 and $100. All seats are reserved and available at all Ticketmaster outlets, online at www.myhrl.com, www.ticketmaster.com or charge by phone: 1-800-745-3000. Explore the new Hard Rock Event Center with a 360-degree virtual seat map of the venue at www.myhrl.com. Doors open one hour prior to show start time. Additional fees may apply.

About Hard Rock Event Center
Hard Rock Event Center is the newly constructed 3,600-seat venue located in the northwest corner of Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Hollywood. As part of the $1.5 billion property expansion, the former Hard Rock Live arena will be razed and replaced with a state-of-the-art 6,500-plus-seat venue in a theater-style configuration, slated to open in 2019. In the interim, a full schedule of concerts, comedy shows and other events will take place in the Hard Rock Event Center. Seminole Hard Rock has hosted some of the hottest musical acts such as John Legend, Bruce Springsteen, Eric Clapton, Marc Anthony, Billy Joel, Andrea Bocelli, Tim McGraw and Carlos Santana; top comedians including Kevin Hart, Tracy Morgan, Chris Rock, George Lopez and the late Robin Williams; as well as major sporting events and events of major sports stars, from UFC matches to charity galas for Jason Taylor, Alonzo Mourning, Dwyane Wade and more. For additional information, please visit www.myhrl.com.

About Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood is the flagship casino resort of Hard Rock International, owned by the Seminole Tribe of Florida. It is a world-renowned entertainment, gaming and hospitality destination that features a AAA Four Diamond-rated luxury hotel; expansive gaming offerings including first-in-class slots, high-stakes table games and South Florida’s premier poker room; spa and fitness center; award-winning dining and nightlife; and the popular Hard Rock Event Center which hosts A-list entertainers, comedy and sporting events. A $1.5 billion expansion slated to open in fall 2019 will bring 638 luxury guestrooms to a first-ever, iconic, guitar-shaped hotel and 168 upscale guest accommodations in an adjacent hotel tower overlooking a lush, “Bora Bora” style, private cabana environment; a 41,000 square-foot Rock Spa®; a 13.5 acre recreational water-focused experience for sunbathing, swimming, kayaking, sailing and paddle boarding; 30 distinctive restaurants, bars and lounges; an expanded gaming floor featuring 3,000 slots, 193 table games and a 46-table poker room; 120,000 square feet of premier meeting and convention space; and 21,000 square feet of new retail space. The highly anticipated 6,500 seat Hard Rock Live theater-style concert venue will feature headline performances and live broadcast capabilities. The resort is located on 87 acres of the Hollywood Seminole Reservation along State Road 7, (U.S. Highway 441). The resort is 10 minutes from Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport and 30 minutes from downtown Miami and Miami International Airport. For more information, visit us online at www.seminolehardrockhollywood.com, call 800-937-0010 or follow us: Facebook: SeminoleHardRockHollywood, Twitter: @HardRockHolly, Instagram: @HardRockHolly.

New York, November 8, 2018

Star Boxing’s CLETUS “THE HEBREW HAMMER” SELDIN (Long Island, NY 21-1 17KOs) will be making his much anticipated return to the ring on November 16th against NELSON LARA (Nicaragua 17-10 9KOs) live on ESPN+ at the Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. New York’s hard-hitting warrior has his sights set on bringing his East Coast power out West to give the people of Oklahoma an unforgettable night of action.

“The Hebrew Hammer” has garnered a significant reputation in the boxing world for his devastating knockout power. With a knockout percentage of 74%, very few have been able to go toe-to-toe with Seldin and withstand his strength. Seldin’s violent punching power was evident in his fight against Mexican heavy-hitter, Roberto Ortiz on November 11th of last year at the Nassau Coliseum. Televised on HBO, the New York native put on a performance for the ages, relentlessly landing heavy shots that put Ortiz on the canvas multiple times. Seldin would go on to secure the win in the third round after the fight was stopped by the referee, giving him the TKO victory.

The impressive performance was the first of back to back HBO fights that saw Cletus Seldin become one of only three fighters in boxing history to appear on the network in consecutive months. That accomplishment has Seldin forever joining only hall of fame world champions Mike Tyson and Roy Jones Jr. with such distinction. Seldin didn’t fare so well in the second HBO fight, losing a decision to Yves Ulysse Jr, and as result of an elbow injury suffered in that fight, had to have Tommy John surgery which has led to his 10 month layoff.

The Hebrew Hammer’s passion for the sweet science has seen him fight through the surgery an rehabilitation and the Hammer promises that he will be in the best shape of his career. Seldin is hungry to get back to the top world ranking he once held.

Seldin will have to do it against Nicaraguan veteran, Nelson Lara. As boxing fans know, Lara is never an easy fight. He is a crafty veteran with a bag of tricks that makes it difficult for fighters to land flush shots. The Nicaraguan-born fighter promises he will do whatever he can to make it a tough night for Seldin and has stated Seldin “picked the wrong guy to make a comeback against”.

ESPN +:
Watch the electric night of fights, LIVE through ESPN +. Head over to www.ESPN.com and create, or login into an already existing account. Click the ESPN+ button on the top right corner of the screen (be sure that your window is wide enough for the button to show). Follow the instructions to subscribe to the service.

TICKETS:
Tickets are currently on sale and are priced at $250, $150, $75, $50, and $35. Tickets may be purchased at the Chesapeake Energy Arena box office, online at Ticketmaster.com, all Ticketmaster outlets, or by phone at 1-800-745-3000.

Zach Parker suffered a dislocated left shoulder and tears to his rotator cuff, labrum and subscapularis during his British title win over Darryll Williams on November 3 at The SSE Hydro in Glasgow, and will undergo surgery this week to repair the damage.

Parker sustained the injury at the end of the second round and was forced to box with one arm for the remainder of the contest as he edged out Williams in a competitive fight to claim the Lonsdale belt via split decision.

“The pain was awful,” said Parker. “I’ve never felt anything like it before, but with the guidance of my trainers Errol Johnson and Paul Mann, I grit my teeth, kept my calm and boxed smart.

“There was never any question I would quit. That’s not in my nature. Obviously, it was killing me, but I couldn’t pull out of the fight of my life. I’ve been waiting for this opportunity for a long time and I wasn’t going to give it up.

“Considering I only had one arm and I was limited to what I could throw, I was pleased with my performance. I couldn’t throw combinations like I wanted to. I had to be smart and know when to stand and fight and when to move.”

Parker’s treatment and rehabilitation will be overseen by leading UK shoulder specialist Len Funk and former Manchester City physio Jamie Murphy.

The 24 year-old is expected to be out of action until April next year, but has already stated he is happy to give Williams a rematch when he returns.

“Most definitely,” says Parker. “I told Williams after the fight we should have a rematch because it was really close. It would be another good fight for the fans and this time I would be 100 percent with two hands.”

A sentiment shared by his manager Neil Marsh, who said: “We have absolutely no issue giving Williams a rematch. Zach Parker is an elite level fighter. It was a very close fight with one hand, but with two hands, there’ll be no question.”

Promoter Nisse Sauerland has praised Parker’s bravery and says he is proud for the Derbyshire man to become Team Sauerland’s first British Champion.

“Zach showed a real warrior’s heart on Saturday in Glasgow,” said Sauerland. “To fight the way he did with only one arm was impressive. Even more so now we know the extent of the damage. I’m extremely proud of his performance and proud of him becoming Team Sauerland’s first British Champion.”

MICHAEL CONLAN has spoken of his concern for the future of amateur boxing if the sport is expelled from the 2020 Olympics.

The Belfast Featherweight prospect was involved in one of Olympic boxing’s biggest ever controversies at the 2016 Rio Games.

He was tipped to win 56kg gold, but was the victim of a points defeat against Russian Vladimir Nikitin in the quarter-finals when he looked a clear winner.

Conlan famously gave a middle finger salute to AIBA judges officiating and then turned pro with American powerhouse promoters Top Rank.

Conlan (9-0) is on a collision course to face Nikitin next year, but is in action at Manchester Arena on December 22 when his friend Carl Frampton challenges IBF Featherweight champion Josh Warrington, live on BT Sport Box Office.

A row has broken out over the governance of the amateur sport putting its Olympic future under threat and fears have risen after Gafur Rakhimov was elected AIBA President.

Conlan, 26, said: “Boxing is en-route to being kicked out of the Olympics which is very, very unfortunate and something I would not like to see.

“I think Olympic boxing is the main reason so many boxers stay amateur. The only reason I stayed amateur for so long is because I wanted to be an Olympic champion.

“If boxing get kicked out it will be really unfortunate and you will see a lot of young amateurs turn professional.

“The only people I am sorry for is the boxers who are going to miss out on a chance to become an Olympic champion and experience that.

“I feel bad for them because they have the Olympic dream and want to be successful.

“If they can’t get a chance of going to the Olympics there is no point in staying amateur in my opinion.”

Boxing has taken place at every Olympics since 1904, apart from Stockholm eight years later because boxing was banned in Sweden.

Conlan is still clinging to feint hope, adding: “I know it doesn’t look like there will be Olympic boxing, but for some reason I think it will stay.”

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. JJ Metcalf will defend his WBC International super-welterweight title against Liam Williams in support of the main event, while Mark Heffron will challenge for the British middleweight title.

Belfast’s blue chip featherweight prospect Michael Conlan (9-0) also features on the bill along with world flyweight title challenger Paddy Barnes (5-1) and unbeaten Light Heavyweight contender Steven Ward (9-0).

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.com

Santa Monica, Calif.) – WBA Light Heavyweight World Champion Dmitry Bivol (14-0, 11 KOs) of Russia hosted a media workout at Churchill Boxing in Santa Monica, California on Tuesday, November 6 in preparation for his title defense against light heavyweight contender Jean Pascal (25-5-2, 10 KOs) of Montreal, Canada. Bivol and Pascal will fight in the main event at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City on Saturday, November 24. The card featuring Bivol vs. Pascal will be televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT.

Dmitry Bivol Quotes

About his opponent, Jean Pascal: “I saw his fights against (Sergey) Kovalev, and against Bernard Hopkins. He was different than he is now. I just want to win and make this defense.”

“Of course I respect him as a boxer, but when I go in the ring, he will be my enemy.”

A message for Pascal: “Thank you for taking this fight. I respect you, you’ve had a great career. Don’t forget about training, we need to make a great fight for the fans who are buying tickets.”

How Bivol sees the fight: “If I think I can get a knockout, of course I will do this. People want to see knockouts.”

On his growing recognition by fans: “After fights on HBO, I feel I’m becoming more popular. People know me. When I walk the streets in Russia, people know me. When I go into some shops in L-A, people know me. I like it. That means people like my fights.”

His goals as a fighter: “I want to fight the best, and do it for the people, for the boxing fans. I want to fight against the best, because I am next to the best (now), and I want to be the best.”

“When I come to the ring, I don’t think about my win. I think about making a great fight, a good fight so that people will be excited about my fights.”

“When I was young, of course I had a dream to be a champion. But now, it’s not enough for me. Now I want to realize my ability, and I want to show all my qualities to as many people as I can.”

Dmitry Bivol speaks with media at Churchill Boxing Tuesday.
Photo: Craig Bennett/Main Events

On scoring knockouts: “The most important knockout punch is not the hardest punch. It is the punch no one sees coming. It is the element of surprise.”

On his upcoming fights: “Our team is open for everyone. I have a good promoter, I have a good manager. I hope they find for me a good way. I’m open for everyone, for every channel.”

“I don’t like to predict the future. I am open for all fighters, for all the best fighters. I want to make big fights for people, because now all the champions in our division are busy. Me too. We will see.”

Message for fans about November 24: “Don’t miss my fight, because I’m going to make something great in the ring and I hope you will be glad to see it.”

On staying at light heavyweight: “Light heavyweight is my weight. But for a big fight, I can move down to super middleweight. And maybe in the future, I can move up. But it’s too much for me now, because I’m not a big guy.”

Vadim Kornilov Quotes

On the Pascal fight: “At the end of the day, Dmitry still has a tough test (against Pascal). He hasn’t had 20 fights. He’s fighting these guys with over 30, 40 fights. It’s still a big, big thing for him to experience and to be a main event fighter.”

On Bivol’s future: “Next year we are talking about unification. We don’t want to run ahead of ourselves, but if everything goes well in this fight.Pascal is a live dog, he’s a real fighter. We have all the respect for him.”

“He’s excited about unification. Wherever we can get the biggest fight, biggest unification, it doesn’t matter about the network. Dmitry wants anyone at 175. He’s been wanting this for the last year.”

On Bivol’s greatest strength as a boxer? “Bivol’s IQ in the ring. IQ is very important for any fighter, and Dmitry is one of the most intelligent fighters, that’s very important.”

This event is promoted by Main Events and World of Boxing. The bout will be televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT.

About Bivol-Pascal: Bivol vs. Pascal is a 12-round fight for Bivol’s WBA Light Heavyweight World Title taking place on Saturday, November 24, 2018 at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, NJ. The co-main event is a WBA Intercontinental Super Bantamweight title fight between Murodjon Akhamadaliev and Isaac Zarate. The event is promoted by Main Events and World of Boxing, and will be televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT. Tickets range between $30 and $150 and are on sale now through HardRockHotelAtlanticCity.com and Ticketmaster.com.

Reminder to news media: The deadline to apply for Fight Week credentials is Friday, November 16. Fill out the credential application at http://www.emcevents.com/

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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.

TORONTO, ON—On the heels of its biggest year as a promotional company, Lee Baxter Promotions is pleased to announce the signing of perhaps its biggest international prospect yet.

Call it the luck of the Irish.

Two-time Ireland national champion Lee Reeves has signed a promotional contract with Lee Baxter Promotions, and will make his debut on November 17 at the Danforth Music Hall in Toronto, ON.

Reeves is one of the most decorated Irish amateurs of his era, having collected eight Limerick championships and eight Munster championships to go along with his pair of national titles. In fact, in his years as a competitive boxer, he has never not appeared in anything less than a national final at year’s end, campaigning mostly as a light welterweight.

Now sitting comfortably in the welterweight division, Reeves is ready to make a splash in the professional ranks.

“I’m 23. I’ve done a lot of stuff as an amateur. I was thinking will I wait for the Olympics. But as we know in the amateur game, you can be on the top of your game, but one bad decision and you’re set back another 12 months,” said Reeves. “For the first 12 months of my professional career, all I’m looking at is learning, learning, learning. That’s all I want to do. I want to experience it, I want to enjoy the ride, but I won’t be getting beat.”

For Baxter, it’s an opportunity to expand the international reach, but also to connect with the notoriously astute fight crowd within the Irish-Canadian community as well.

“You couldn’t ask for a more marketable fighter than Lee Reeves. On top of obviously being an exceptional talent in the ring, he has movie star good looks, he can talk a good game, and he’s shown through his life that he knows how to deal with adversity,” said Baxter. “I think once the Canadian boxing marketplace is introduced to him, they’re going to fall in love with him.”

Naturally, Reeves fielded offers from promotional entities around the world, but decided that Canada, and Toronto specifically, would be the ideal place to base his career.

“I kept going back to Lee. Things just clicked,” said Reeves. “I was like, you know, the following for Irish boxing in Canada is huge. My skill, my confidence will go well over there. The Irish following is massive. My style of boxing will sell.”

Irish boxing is perhaps enjoying its finest era ever, with heavyweight kingpin Tyson Fury, women’s trailblazer Katie Taylor and pound-for-pound stalwart Carl Frampton all holding the spotlight as the moment.

But it’s a former Irish world champion Reeves has the closest connection to—former middleweight champion Andy Lee. Both Reeves and Lee are from the same city, Limerick, and came up through the same channels during their respective amateur careers.

“There’s a big boxing following in Limerick, so it’s a good place. I always looked up to Andy Lee. I always saw him and thought I could be on that level one day too,” said Reeves.

The 23-year old’s journey will begin on November 17 when he battles Benito Aburto, a four-fight veteran middleweight from Mexico who is coming off a knockout victory over Emmanuel Matias in May.

“The fans want to see what Reeves truly has to offer, and the only want to do that is to put him in real fights, which is exactly what Lee wants to be in,” said Baxter.

Reeves, a slick southpaw who grew up idolizing and imitating Pernell Whitaker, insists he’s as much about substance as he is style.

“I’m an aggressive counterpuncher. If a guy wants to push me, he’s going to get hurt,” said Reeves.

Tickets for “The Next Generation” are available through Ticketmaster. Doors open at 7:00 PM ET.

PHILADELPHIA, PENN.(November 6, 2018)–Banner Promotions is proud to announce the signing of undefeated lightweight, Golden Garcia to a promotional contract.

Garcia, 30 years-old of Montreal, Canada, has a record of 11-0-1 with six-knockouts.

Garcia began boxing at the age of 12 when he walked in to a gym to get in shape.

“I got into a few scraps in the street, so it was nice to go to a place where fighting was allowed,” said Garcia.

Garcia had about 60 amateur bouts, where he competed at 130 pounds.

Garcia turned professional on June 28, 2014 with a 2nd round stoppage over Michael Gargouri in Quebec, Canada. He has fought all of his bouts in Canada, which included a win over Oscar Mejia (10-2-1).

In his last bout, Garcia stopped Adalberto Borquez on March 24th in Montreal.

Garcia is a pressure fighter, that throws a high volume of punches, and tries to overwhelm his opponents. Garcia prides himself for his endurance and he believes that the longer the fight goes, the better he is.

“This is a great opportunity for me to step up. I will get better chances to show off my skills, and being with Banner Promotions can help me get farther in my career then I could imagine,” said Garcia. “I am looking forward to this partnership, and together we will do big things.”

Said Garcia’s manager, former world champion, Otis Grant, “Golden has a lot of potential. He is a very hard worker. I have confidence in Artie Pelullo and Banner Promotions. I was his 1st world champion. This will open the door to sign more fighters with Banner. I have a lot of good fighters, and I am looking to send more to Artie.”

“I am happy to be working with my 1st world champion Otis Grant, and his brother Howard. They have a terrific eye for talent, and Golden will be the 1st of many fighters that we will be working together, to bring to world championships,” said Banner Promotions President, Artie Pelullo.

For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please check Banner Promotions Facebook Page , and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @BannerBoxing

Poland’s Krzysztof Glowacki and Russia’s Maksim Vlasov have studied each other thoroughly before their Ali Trophy Cruiserweight Quarter-Final November 10 at the UIC Pavilion in Chicago.

Tickets are available via TicketMaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000.

“I’ve watched a lot of his (Vlasov’s) fights together with my coach and we have tactics ready,” said 32-year-old Glowacki (30-1, 19 KOs). “Of course, he does have a lot of weak points but he also has a lot of strengths.

“But I’m not focused on him, really. I don’t care what he does, what he eats or whether he sleeps a lot. I’m mostly interested in myself and what I do. Because I know that if I give everything, I’ll win.

“What am I bringing to the tournament? My faith for the most part, my faith that I’m going to win and I know there can only be one champion.”

Vlasov, a fighter with success at multiple weights, is well prepared for the challenge.

“I know a lot about my opponent Krzysztof Glowacki,” said 32-year-old Vlasov (42-2, 25 KOs). “I watched many of his fights, he is a difficult and dangerous boxer. He is a fighter who can shoot at any moment and one always need to watch him and stay focused.

“At this stage of my career, this fight against Glowacki is key. It’s either do or die.”

Latvia’s Mairis Briedis vs Germany’s Noel Mikaelian and Krzysztof Glowacki vs Maksim Vlasov are the two Cruiserweight Quarter-Finals on an incredible doubleheader when the World Boxing Super Series comes to the UIC Pavilion in Chicago.

Fans in the U.S. can watch the quarter-finals LIVE on DAZN, the global sports streaming platform. To sign up for a one-month free trial, fans can visit DAZN.com or download the DAZN app to their preferred connected device.

THE KUDOS OF adding both Lee Selby and Carl Frampton to his win column in 2018 was the key attraction for Josh Warrington in putting his IBF world featherweight title at such significant risk in the first defence of his belt.

Respected champion Selby successfully defended his title five times after winning it with the impressive stoppage of the previously unbeaten Evgeny Gradovich in May 2015. He came unstuck against a rampant Warrington at Elland Road in May and many in the business anticipated the Leeds man taking on a more routine assignment on home turf next time out.

Instead he will venture across to the Manchester Arena on December 22 to tackle two-weight world champion – and current WBO Interim world title holder – Carl Frampton in a BT Sport Box Office spectacular.

If he can add the name of the decorated Frampton to that of Selby it will make for quite a year for the 27-year-old, but he points out that it is about more than just impressive entries on his CV. Warrington wants to prove that he is the best about at the weight in Britain at the moment.

“That is what I’ve been saying to folk, there are not many people that do that,” he stated on his bid for a big win-double.

“There are not many fighters who go straight from one big name to another.

“Obviously it is a massive opportunity for Carl and, as I have said before, we didn’t have to take this fight but I want to prove that I am the best featherweight in the UK. I believe I am and the best way to show it is to fight.

“Carl is also signed up with Frank (Warren) so the fight was easy enough to make and, as Frank says, ‘it’s on!’.”

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. JJ Metcalf will defend his WBC International super-welterweight title against Liam Williams in support of the main event, while Mark Heffron will challenge for the British middleweight title.

Belfast’s blue chip featherweight prospect Michael Conlan (9-0) also features on the bill along with world flyweight title challenger Paddy Barnes (5-1) and unbeaten Light Heavyweight contender Steven Ward (9-0).

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.com

PHILADELPHIA — November 7, 2018 — Two members of the Hard Hitting Promotions stable will fight for NBA title belts on the non-televised undercard of a ShoBox: The New Generation event on Friday, November 16 at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

Junior welterweight Branden Pizarro will take on Jerome Rodriguez in an eight-round bout for the NBA Intercontinental title, while undefeated super featherweight Gadwin Rosa faces German Meraz in a six-round bout for the NBA Intercontinental title.

Those bouts will precede a ShoBox: The New Generation tripleheader live on SHOWTIME® (9:35 p.m. ET/PT) that will feature an all-Philly showdown between undefeated Jaron Ennis and veteran Raymond Serrano. In the televised co-feature, Hard Hitting Promotions’ Samuel Teah will face Kenneth Sims Jr. in a junior welterweight bout. Opening the telecast will be a super bantamweight matchup between Arnold Khegai and Jorge Diaz.

“The NBA belt is a great springboard title, and to have two of our young prospects fight for titles on this great card is terrific for them,” said Manny Rivera of Hard Hitting Promotions. “The NBA has a long history of champions which include Roy Jones and Hector Camacho, so we definitely think that this will be the first of many titles for Branden and Gadwin.”

Pizarro, of Philadelphia, has a record of 12-1 with six knockouts, and the 19-year-old keeps improving with each fight. Rodriguez (7-10-3, 2 KOs), of Allentown, Penn., is battle tested and has wins over two undefeated fighters, including world-ranked Avery Sparrow.

Rosa ,of Ocala, Fla., is 8-0 with seven knockouts. The unbeaten super featherweight will look to continue his knockout prowess as he fights the 113-fight veteran German Meraz, who has faced numerous top prospects and contenders. For Rosa, this fight will be a solid indicator of where the talented youngster stands as he climbs the 130-pound ladder.

In more non-televised action:

Kieran Hooks (3-1-1, 1 KO), of Philadelphia, will fight Gledwin Ortiz (5-2, 4 KOs), of Bronx, N.Y., in a welterweight bout.

Christian Tapia (6-0, 5 KOs). of Coamo, Puerto Rico, fights Darnell Pettis (3-12), of Cleveland, in a super featherweight contest.

Light heavyweight Benny Sinakin (1-0), of Philadelphia, will face Darren Gibbs (1-5, 1 KO), of Ferndale, Mich.

Also seeing action against opponents to be named will be super bantamweight Angel Pizarro, of Philadelphia, and light heavyweight David Stevens, of Reading, Penn., who will make his professional debut in a cruiserweight fight.

Tickets for the show, which is promoted by Victory Promotions in association with Hard Hitting Promotions, are priced $50, $75 and $125 and can be purchased at 2300arena.com and hardhittingpromotions.com.

Floyd Mayweather has pulled out of his proposed New Year’s eve bout with Japanese kickboxing phenom Tenshin Nasukawa, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

“Now that I am back on U.S. soil after a long and disappointing trip to Tokyo, I now have the time to address you, my fans and the media in regard to the upcoming event on December 31st that was recently announced,” Mayweather wrote in his Instagram account. “First and foremost, I want it to be clear that I, Floyd Mayweather, never agreed to an official bout with Tenshin Nasukawa. In fact (with all due respect) I have never heard of him until this recent trip to Japan.”

“Ultimately, I was asked to participate in a 9 minute exhibition of 3 rounds with an opponent selected by the Rizen Fighting Federation,” Mayweather wrote. “What I was originally informed of (it) by Brent Johnson of One Entertainment was that this was to be an exhibition put on for a small group of wealthy spectators for a very large fee. This exhibition was previously arranged as a ‘Special Bout’ purely for entertainment purposes with no intentions of being represented as an official fight card nor televised worldwide.”

“Once I arrived to the press conference, my team and I were completely derailed by the new direction this event was going and we should have put a stop to it immediately,” he said. “I want to sincerely apologize to my fans for the very misleading information that was announced during this press conference and I can assure you that I too was completely blindsided by the arrangements that were being made without my consent nor approval.

“For the sake of the several fans and attendees that flew in from all parts of the world to attend this past press conference, I was hesitant to create a huge disturbance by combating what was being said and for that I am truly sorry. I am a retired boxer that earns an unprecedented amount of money, globally, for appearances, speaking engagements and occasional small exhibitions.”

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, former world title challenger Yoshihiro Kamegai has announced his retirement.

“I’ll be retiring from boxing,” he wrote. “My last 2 bouts, I’ve been losing power in my arms in the early rounds. Unlike before when I could throw more power punches throughout the whole fight, now I can’t. Back when I fought (Robert Guerrero) and (Jesus Soto Karass), those were the fights when my performance was at best but the last 2 was far from it. I didn’t feel like I was in my body.

“But still I was more humbled and appreciative than ever to see the fans all around the world crossing different countries to cheer me on! That was my PRIDE and MOTIVATION! To all the fans that supported me throughout my boxing career my biggest appreciation goes out to all of you! Thank you very much!!”

LEGENDARY fight promoter Bob Arum believes Josh Warrington and Carl Frampton’s blockbuster battle will live up to expectations.

Warrington’s first defence of his IBF featherweight title at Manchester Arena on December 22 is tipped by many experts to be a classic battle.

Arum has a huge interest in the fight and is in talks with his friend and fellow promoter Frank Warren to match the winner against his WBO champion, Oscar Valdez next year in a unification.

Two-weight world champion Frampton (26-1) has been in brilliant form this year thrashing Nonito Donaire on points and stopping Luke Jackson.

Warrington (27-0) caused one of the biggest upsets of 2018 when he snatched his world crown from Lee Selby in May, in front of 25,000 hometown fans in Leeds.

So it’s easy to see why Arum expects the BT Sport Box Office clash to deliver for the expected 20,000 fans packed into the arena and armchair viewers.

Arum said: “We are looking forward to the Frampton-Warrington fight, which should be a real barnburner.

“Hopefully, we can match the winner with WBO featherweight champion Oscar Valdez in the spring or summer of 2019.”

Arum is expected to be ringside sitting alongside Warren in Manchester to see his unbeaten featherweight prospect Michael Conlan box.

Conlan (9-0) is a close to his fellow Belfast boxer, Frampton and the pair insist they will never fight each other, but he is a possible future rival for Warrington.

Arum added: ”The addition of Mick Conlan to the card makes it a very attractive presentation on ESPN+ here in the States.”

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. JJ Metcalf will defend his WBC International super-welterweight title against Liam Williams in support of the main event, while Mark Heffron will challenge for the British middleweight title.

Belfast’s blue chip featherweight prospect Michael Conlan (9-0) also features on the bill along with world flyweight title challenger Paddy Barnes (5-1) and unbeaten Light Heavyweight contender Steven Ward (9-0).

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.com

New York, November 7, 2018

There has been an overwhelming response to the return of boxing sensation and former WBO Junior Lightweight World Champion, CHRIS ALGIERI to the Paramount on NOVEMBER 30TH as he headlines “Rockin’ Fights” 33. Ticket demand to see the Huntington native has been tremendous. All of the top-priced tickets and all of the Sky Bar seats have already been sold out.

Only limited tickets remain. We are contacting you, because you are one of Star Boxing’s most loyal fans and ardent supporters and we greatly appreciate your patronage. We do not want you to be shut out from this top-tier event. If you want the opportunity to see this stellar night of boxing action please be sure to purchase your tickets today as there are only a handful of seats left.

Chris Algieri returns to The Paramount for the first time since 2014, when he defeated highly touted prospect Emmanuel Taylor by a unanimous decision. Algieri has dominated at his home venue, having fought eight times at The Paramount and having defeated the likes of world title challenger, Mike Arnaoutis, and then, highly regarded prospect, Jose Peralta. On November 30th, Algieri intends to pay homage to his strong hometown fanbase, earn his ninth consecutive victory at The Paramount, and make it a memorable homecoming. Be there to see the return of Chris Algieri, by purchasing your tickets HERE.

INFO:
Algieri, who was developed at the famed Star Boxing venue, The Paramount, moved to the big stage and had a career defining, real life “Rocky” story unfold on HBO on June 14th, 2014 at the Barclay’s Center, in Brooklyn, against heavily favored and feared Ruslan Provodnikov (then 23-2 16 KO’s) for the WBO World Championship. After peeling himself off the canvas two times in the opening round, Algieri put on the fight of his life. With one eye virtually closed, the gutsy Algieri fought the rest of the fight in brilliant fashion dominating the defending champion Provodnikov to become the new WBO Super Lightweight World Champion*.

The win catapulted the local sensation to international fame. Algieri was awarded a mega-multi-million dollar fight with boxing legend and superstar, Manny Pacquaio. The Pacquiao-Algieri bout took place around the world in Macao, China and was telecast on HBO/Pay Per View. Subsequently, Algieri continued to take the most challenging bouts taking on world class fighters such as Errol Spence Jr and Amir Khan, after the Pacquiao fight.

Algieri decided a couple of months ago that he was ready to make a comeback and re-signed a promotional agreement with his long-time promoter Joe DeGuardia and Star Boxing. The two agreed it was time to return to the roots of Algieri’s career and give back to the loyal Long Island fans. Therefore, on November 30th, after a two-year layoff, Chris Algieri returns home to the place where it all began, The Paramount. Algieri will headline “Rockin’ Fights” 33 as he begins another march towards a World Championship fight.

*Note: Super Lightweight Division is also known as the Junior Welterweight Division and both have a Maximum weight of 140 lbs.

PROMOTER JOE DEGUARDIA WITH, THEN NEWLY CROWNED WORLD CHAMPION, CHRIS ALGIERI AT THE BARCLAYS CENTER IN 2014
GET YOUR TICKETS TO “ROCKIN’ FIGHTS” 33 TODAY!
FIGHT: FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30TH, 2018
$50, $60, $100, $150, $200
BUY TICKETS HERE!
FACTS:
ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 33 is presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing. “Rockin Fights” is sponsored by Modell’s Sporting Goods, Four Seasons Sunrooms & Windows, Camelot Limousine and Tudor Advisory Group.

*If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, please email us at
info@starboxing.com
TICKETS:
Tickets are on sale now at The Paramount Box Office (631) 673-7300 or Ticketmaster by clicking HERE, or by calling 1 (800) 745-3000 or Star Boxing (718) 823-2000 or www.starboxing.com. Tickets prices are $50, $60, $100, $150, $200.
PAST RELEASES:
“Rockin’ Fights” 33 Date Announcement
Chris Algieri to Headline “Rockin’ Fights” 33
SOCIAL MEDIA:
For more information visit www.StarBoxing.com, follow along on Facebook at www.facebook.com/starboxing, follow along on Instagram at @StarBoxing, @TheParamountNY, or on Twitter @StarBoxing, or @TheParamountNY.

Las Vegas – UFC® will put an exclamation point on 2018 with a pair of blockbuster world championship fights. In a bout to crown a new light heavyweight champion, former titleholder Jon Jones will take on No.1 contender Alexander Gustafsson in a rematch of their 2013 classic. Also, women’s featherweight champion Cris Cyborg aims for her third successful defense against bantamweight titleholder Amanda Nunes. UFC® 232: JONES vs. GUSTAFSSON 2 takes place Saturday, Dec. 29 from T-Mobile Arena and will air live on Pay-Per-View.

The most dominant light heavyweight champion ever, Jones (23-1 1NC, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.) is looking to regain his spot atop the division. During his previous reign, he earned spectacular victories over Daniel Cormier, Glover Teixeira, Rashad Evans, Lyoto Machida and Quinton Jackson. His first encounter with Gustafsson yielded arguably the greatest light heavyweight championship fight in UFC history. He’s now ready to run it back against one of the toughest tests of his career.

A two-time title challenger, Gustafsson (18-4, fighting out of Stockholm, Sweden) is hoping the third time will prove to be the charm. A talented and devastating striker, he has netted incredible wins against Glover Teixeira, Jimi Manuwa, Shogun Rua, Vladimir Matyushenko and Matt Hamill. Though he came up short against Jones in their first bout, he came close to edging the then-champ on judges’ scorecards. He is now gunning to even the score and capture UFC gold.

The first and only women’s featherweight champion, Cyborg (20-1 1NC, fighting out of Huntington Beach, Calif. by way of Curitiba, Brazil) has not lost a bout in over 13 years. Throughout her storied career, she has secured thrilling victories over former bantamweight champ Holly Holm, Yana Kunitskaya, Tonya Evinger, Marloes Coenen and Gina Carano. She’s now poised to put on another vintage performance and deliver her 18th career knockout victory.

Nunes (16-4, fighting out of Miami, Fla. by way Salvador, Brazil) looks to make history by becoming the first female two-division champ in UFC history. During her current run of dominance, she’s picked up impressive wins against UFC Hall of Fame inductee and inaugural titleholder Ronda Rousey, former champ Miesha Tate, Valentina Shevchenko, Raquel Pennington and Sara McMann. She now plays the role of underdog against the most destructive women’s fighter the sport has ever seen.

Additional bouts on the card include:

Former interim welterweight champion Carlos Condit (30-12, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.) welcomes dangerous finisher Michael Chiesa (14-4, fighting out of Spokane Valley, Wash.) to the 170-pound division
In a clash of light heavyweight contenders, No.4-ranked Ilir Latifi (15-5 1NC, fighting out of Malmo, Sweden) looks to keep his momentum rolling against surging No.7 Corey Anderson (12-4, fighting out of Robbinsville, N.J.)
Two-time featherweight title challenger and No.5-ranked contender Chad Mendes (18-4, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif.) squares off with rising No.11 Alexander Volkanovski (18-1, fighting out of Windang, Australia)
Former heavyweight champ and No.13-ranked contender Andrei Arlovski (27-17 1NC, fighting out of Chicago, Ill. by way of Minsk, Belarus) aims to rebound against hard-hitting Walt Harris (11-7, fighting out of Birmingham, Ala.)
No.6-ranked women’s bantamweight contender Cat Zingano (9-3, fighting out of Denver, Colo.) moves up to featherweight to face former Invicta champ Megan Anderson (8-3, fighting out of Kansas City, Mo. by way of Gold Coast, Australia)
Former two-division champion BJ Penn (16-12-2, fighting out of Hilo, Hawaii) returns against The Ultimate Fighter winner Ryan Hall (6-1, fighting out of Falls Church, Va.)
No.14-ranked bantamweight contender Douglas Silva de Andrade (25-2 1NC, fighting out of Castanhal, Brazil) takes on fellow hot prospect Petr Yan (10-1, fighting out of Krasnoyarsk Krai, Russia)
Tom Duquesnoy (15-2 1NC, fighting out of Paris, France) meets Nathaniel Wood (14-3, fighting out of London, England) in a battle of bantamweight prospects
No.12-ranked middleweight contender Uriah Hall (14-9, fighting out of Queens, N.Y.) meets Dana White’s Tuesday Night Contender Series contract winner Bevon Lewis (5-0, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.)
Curtis Millender (16-3, fighting out of Fullerton, Calif.) locks horns with seasoned veteran Siyar Bahadurzada (23-6-1, fighting out of Amsterdam, The Netherlands by way of Kabul, Afghanistan)

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

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

UFC® 232: JONES vs. GUSTAFSSON 2 will air live from T-Mobile Arena on Pay-Per-View at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT on Saturday, Dec. 29, with the prelims kicking off the evening on FS1 at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and on UFC FIGHT PASS® at 6:15 p.m. ET/3:15 p.m. PT. Doors open at 5:15 p.m. ET/2:15 p.m. PT.

Tickets for UFC® 232: JONES vs. GUSTAFSSON 2 go on sale Friday, Nov. 9 at 10 a.m. PT and are priced at $1,255, $1,005, $805, $655, $505, $430, $355, $285, $235, $190 and $140 (not including fees). Tickets are available for purchase online at www.axs.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person.

UFC Fight Club® members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets Wednesday, Nov. 7 at 10 a.m. PT via the website www.ufcfightclub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thursday, Nov. 8 starting at 10 a.m. PT. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

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About UFC®

UFC® is a premium global sports brand and the largest Pay-Per-View event provider in the world. Celebrating its 25th Anniversary in 2018, UFC boasts more than 284 million fans worldwide and has produced over 440 events in 22 countries since its inception in 1993. Acquired in 2016 by global sports, entertainment and fashion leader Endeavor (formerly WME | IMG), together with strategic partners Silver Lake Partners and KKR, UFC is headquartered in Las Vegas with a network of employees around the world. UFC produces more than 40 live events annually that consistently sell out some of the most prestigious arenas around the globe, while programming is broadcast in over 160 countries and territories to 1.1 billion TV households worldwide in 40 different languages. UFC FIGHT PASS®, a digital subscription service, delivers exclusive live events, thousands of fights on-demand and original content to fans around the world. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat and Instagram: @UFC.

About T-Mobile Arena

T-Mobile Arena, the 20,000-seat venue located on the Las Vegas Strip between Park MGM and New York-New York, opened April 6, 2016. The arena hosts more than 100 events annually including major headline entertainment, awards shows, UFC, boxing, basketball and other sporting events, family shows and special events. T-Mobile Arena also is the home of the Vegas Golden Knights, a National Hockey League expansion team and the city’s first professional sports team. The city’s newest landmark, recently named the No. 1 venue on Billboard Magazine’s 2018 Arena Power List as well as the “Best New Major Concert Venue” by Pollstar Magazine, features 50 luxury suites, more than two dozen private loge boxes, complete broadcast facilities, and other specially designed exclusive hospitality offerings and fan amenities destined to create a guest experience second to none. Toshiba Plaza, an adjacent two-acre outdoor entertainment space, features performance stages, a variety of video screens and other interactive content and display areas. Industry-leading architect Populous designed T-Mobile Arena to meet the U.S. Green Building Council’s standards for LEED® Gold Certification. T-Mobile Arena is a privately funded joint venture between AEG and MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM). For more information, visit at T-MobileArena.com or follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

PHILADELPHIA, PENN.(November 6, 2018)–Banner Promotions is proud to announce the signing of former Olympian and current super middleweight Naim Terbunja.

Terbunja of Linkoping, Sweden by way of Pristina, Kosovo, represented Sweden in the 2008 Olympics. He currently holds a professional record of 10-2-1 with one knockout.

The 34 year-old Terbunja began boxing at the age of 14, as he was a young soccer player looking to get stronger. Terbunja took up boxing, and fell in love with the sport.

That sparked an amateur career that saw him go 200-36. Terbunja fought all over the world for the Swedish National team, and then to the 2008 Olympics where he lost to Matt Korobov in the round of 36.

Terbunja moved to Long Island and spent part of his amateur career in the United States and captured the National Golden Gloves title in 2009 by defeating Luis Arias in the finals.

Terbunja turned professional on April 27, 2012 with a unanimous decision over Vladimir Spasojevic in Sweden. Terbunja has fought six times in Sweden and twice in Kosovo.

Terbunja has a 1st round stoppage over previously undefeated Joel De La Paz (7-0) on July 23, 2016.

Terbunja is coming off a disputed draw with regarded Lanell Bellows on May 11th in Las Vegas.

“I am happy to sign with Banner Promotions,” said Terbunja. “If I have a good team around me, I believe that I can fight for a world title. Banner Promotions can help me where I need to go.”

“Naim has a blue chip pedigree. He was an Olympian, and the bout he lost was close. He has had one bad fight at super middleweight. I believe he has the ability to be in position to fight for a world championship. He has an awkward style, and a good chin. He now has a good opportunity with Banner Promotions to realize his potential,” said Terbunja’s manager, Pat Zagarino.

“We happy to have signed Naim. He was an Olympian, and we think he can become a player in the super middleweight division. We look forward to getting him in the ring before the end of the year, and we will get him in prime position in 2019,” said Banner Promotions President Artie Pelullo.

For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please check Banner Promotions Facebook Page , and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @BannerBoxing

Greg Cohen Promotions proudly announces the signing of once-beaten super middleweight Derrick “Take It to The Bank” Webster.

Glassboro, New Jersey’s Webster (28-1, 14 KOs) stands an enormous 6’ 4”, with fast and powerful hands. The naturally athletic southpaw only had 40 amateur fights and didn’t even start boxing until age 24 but picked up the sport very quickly.

Unlike most world-class fighters, Webster is a successful home-remodeling and construction business owner. He also played power forward for two seasons for the University of Maryland basketball while earning a bachelor’s degree in Juvenile Criminal Justice.

“It feels amazing,” said Webster of the signing. “I feel like I belong on this level. I have a different story from the people I’m around. They’ve been fighting since they were kids. I didn’t pick up gloves until I was 24. For me to be here, with people who have been fighting all their lives… I’ve already reached a level a lot of guys never reach.”

Webster says trusting the wrong people made for a tough road earlier in his career, but he’s ready for a run at a world championship now that he has father figure/trainer Denny Brown and the experienced promoter Cohen on his side.

“From early on, people have been promising this and promising that. I’m past that point. I deal with that earlier in my career. I don’t have the patience to be playing around anymore. Greg says we’re fighting December 1 and then we will come back and fight again early next year. I expect to break into the world ratings and take my shot at a world championship.”

Webster is unique in that he’s not financially dependent on boxing. All of his sacrifice and work is done because he wants to.

“A lot of guys fight because they need it for their identity. I am successful in business already. I have built myself up as a brand. I have businesses that are doing well. Boxing just adds to my life. I still act. I do modelling. I don’t have to worry about money in boxing.”

Cohen says he’ll act quickly with Webster to get him into position for a world championship challenge.

“Derrick is a unique talent who is overdue for a big fight. With almost no previous experience, he has worked his way to a 28-1 record with solid wins over several reliable veterans. At the top of his potential, he can be a super middleweight version of (former welterweight champion) Paul Williams. He’s a smart and naturally talented fighter with excellent potential to become a force at 168 lbs.”

PHILADELPHIA / LOS ANGELES – November 6, 2018 – Brandon Adams won a majority decision over Eric Walker to advance to the final of The Contender on EPIX®.

Adams dropped Walker in round four with a hard right-left combination and came through the hard fought contest by scores of 49-45, 48-46 and 47-47.

Adams, 20-2 with 13 knockouts, will now advance to the finals, where he will take on Shane Mosley, Jr. (13-2, 8 KOs) at The Forum in Inglewood, California this Friday night live on EPIX at 10 PM ET / 7 PM PT.

“We are very proud of Brandon. We are excited to watch Brandon fight for The Contender title on Friday. He is a terrific fighter, and with a win, we can expect to see Brandon in big fights,” said Matthew Rowland, Vice-President of Banner Promotions.

The original Contender series ran for four seasons (2005-2009) and launched multiple fighters into contention for world titles, including title winners Sergio Mora, Cornelius Bundrage, Sakio Bika, and Sam Soliman.

Eric Van Wagenen serves as executive producer and showrunner of the revived franchise alongside Mark Burnett. The format is owned by MGM Television and Paramount Television.

EPIX is available nationwide through cable, satellite, telco and streaming TV providers including Charter Spectrum, Cox, Verizon FiOS, AT&T U-verse, Dish Network, Sling, PlayStation Vue and, as of June 13, Comcast.

About MGM Television
MGM Television is a leading producer and global distributor of premium content for television and digital platforms, with distribution rights to original productions and a robust catalog of television episodes and feature film titles including such premiere entertainment franchises as James Bond, Rocky, Stargate and The Hobbit trilogy. Current scripted and unscripted projects include Fargo (FX); Vikings (HISTORY); The Handmaid’s Tale (Hulu); Get Shorty (EPIX); The Voice (NBC); Survivor (CBS); Shark Tank (ABC); Teen Wolf (MTV); Steve Harvey’s FUNDERDOME (ABC); Beat Shazam (FOX); Signed (VH1); Lucha Underground (The El Rey Network); and through its distribution entity, Orion TV Productions, the syndicated daytime courtroom series Lauren Lake’s Paternity Court and Couples Court with The Cutlers. In addition, MGM owns Evolution Media, the innovative unscripted television producers of The Real Housewives of Orange County, The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, Vanderpump Rules, Vanderpump Rules: Jax and Brittany Take Kentucky, and Sweet Home Oklahoma (Bravo); Botched (E!); Bug Juice (Disney Channel) and Growing Up Supermodel (Lifetime).MGM’s television programming regularly airs in more than 100 countries worldwide. For more information, visit www.mgm.com.

About EPIX
EPIX, an MGM company, is a premium pay television network, delivering the latest movie releases and biggest classic film franchises, plus original programming including series, documentaries, and comedy specials – all available on TV, on demand, online and across devices. Launched in October 2009, EPIX became profitable in its first year of existence and is now available nationwide to 70 million homes through cable, telco, satellite and emerging digital distribution platforms. A pioneer in the development and proliferation of “TV Everywhere,” EPIX was the first premium network to provide multi-platform access to its content online at EPIX.com and to launch on Xbox, PlayStation®, Android phones and tablets, and Roku® players. EPIX is also available across hundreds of consumer devices including Apple TV, iPhone and iPad, Amazon Fire TV, TiVo, Chromecast, and Android TV, delivering more movies than any other network with thousands of titles available for streaming. For more information about EPIX, go to www.EPIX.com. Follow EPIX on Twitter @EpixHd (http://www.twitter.com/EpixHD) and on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/EPIX), YouTube (http://youtube.com/EPIX), Instagram (http://instagram.com/EPIX) and Snapchat @EPIXTV.

About Paramount Television
Paramount Television is a leading studio, developing and financing a wide range of cutting-edge and entertaining television content across all media platforms for distribution worldwide. The studio’s robust slate includes Tom Clancy’s “Jack Ryan” (Amazon), “13 Reasons Why” (Netflix), “Maniac” (Netflix), “Shooter” (USA), “Berlin Station” (EPIX), “The Alienist” (TNT), “The Haunting of Hill House” (Netflix), “Catch-22” (Hulu), “First Wives Club” (Paramount Network), “Looking for Alaska” (Hulu), “Briarpatch” (USA), “Boomerang” (BET), “Shantaram” (Apple), “Dream Team” (BET), “The Contender” (EPIX) and “Snow Crash” (Amazon), among others. Paramount Television is part of Paramount Pictures Corporation (PPC), a global producer and distributor of filmed entertainment. PPC is a subsidiary of Viacom (NASDAQ: VIAB, VIA), a global content company with premier television, film and digital entertainment brands.

Atlantic City, NJ) – Murodjon Akhmadaliev (4-0, 3 KOs), age 24, a 2016 Olympic bronze medalist and accomplished amateur originally from Uzbekistan, will make his American television debut in the co-main event of the HBO World Championship Boxing show featuring Dmitry Bivol vs. Jean Pascal fighting for the WBA World Light Heavyweight title at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City on Saturday, November 24.

Akhmadaliev will face Isaac Zarate of San Pedro, California, (16-3-3, 2 KOs) in a 10-round fight with the WBA Intercontinental Super Bantamweight title at stake. Zarate, age 27, is hot off his upset split decision victory over Horatio Garcia in September.

The bout will be televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT.

Akhmadaliev lives in Brooklyn, New York, and trains in Indio, California with Joel and Antonio Diaz. “It’s been my dream to fight on HBO where Roy Jones, Manny Pacquiao, and many other great fighters have fought. I can’t believe that I’ll have this opportunity,” said Akhmadaliev. “I’m grateful to my promoter World of Boxing, to Dmitry Bivol for this chance, and of course HBO.

“Don’t miss my fight. I’ll bring the New Drama Show on HBO on November 24th,” promised Akhmadaliev.

“We are very excited that Akhmadaliev will be featured with Dmitry Bivol’s HBO appearance,” said Vadim Kornilov, Akhmadaliev’s manager. “This should be an exciting night of boxing. Akhmadaliev really knows how to get the fans out of their seats. I promise you’ll be sorry if you miss this debut on November 24th.”

As an amateur, Akhmadaliev won the 2012 and 2015 World Championship Silver Medal. In the 2015 final, he knocked down Michael “Mick” Conlan of Ireland, but lost the gold in a controversial decision. He won a Bronze Medal at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, and closed his amateur career as a 2017 Asian Games Gold Medalist. His amateur record stands at 300 wins with 80 knockouts, against just 15 losses.

After turning professional in 2018 and signing with Andrey Ryabinsky and World of Boxing, Akhmadaliev has now fought four times, with three knockout wins and one decision. A southpaw with power in both hands, it won’t take long for American boxing fans to discover “MJ’s” fan friendly, aggressive style, which should suit him well in the professional ranks and quickly make him a star.

“Every time MJ steps in the ring it is a spectacular show,” said Kornilov, who co-manages Akhmadaliev with Oleg Frolov. “His favorite fighters are Gennady ‘GGG’ Golovkin and Vasyl Lomachenko, exceptional role models. He wants to become undisputed champion and a major star in his division in the first three years of his career. He is one to watch.”

About Bivol-Pascal: Bivol vs. Pascal is a 12 round fight for Bivol’s WBA Light Heavyweight World Title on Saturday, November 24, 2018 at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, NJ. The event is promoted by Main Events and World of Boxing, and will be televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT. Tickets range between $50 and $200 and are on sale now through HardRockHotelAtlanticCity.com and Ticketmaster.com.

Reminder to news media: The deadline to apply for Fight Week credentials is Friday, November 16. Fill out the credential application at http://www.emcevents.com/

Champion Warrington confessed that his only slight regret from his dismantling of then title holder Lee Selby at Elland Road in May was that he did not capitalise and attempt to force a stoppage when he had the Welshman tiring and cornered.

He vowed to avoid a repeat in his BT Box Office blockbuster against two-weight world champion Frampton and, if the opportunity presents itself, he intends to go for the jugular.

“I don’t like making predictions and I see a Josh Warrington win, but I am going to go for a stoppage this time,” stated the Leeds Warrior last week. If I see it I am going to go for it.

“Coming out of the Selby fight, if I was going to criticise myself or kick myself, I wish I had just pressed on. This time around, if I see the opportunity I am just going to go for it.”

Frampton, for his part, was unimpressed with the thinking of his opponent and mocked the 27-year-old by posting his Boxrec page on Twitter, circling his record which shows six stoppages from his 27 unbeaten contests.

“He may take the pillows off then,” added the Belfast hero in a caustic follow-up comment.
Friendly fire aside, Frampton did agree in response to another poster that all eventualities are being catered for and he was ‘preparing for a hard fight’.

Warrington’s punch power has been questioned in the past, but he has answered critics in recent fights with impressive stoppages over both Patrick Hyland and Dennis Ceylan, with Hyland having previously only been stopped by Gary Russell jr and handing the experience to the Dane for the first time in his career.

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. JJ Metcalf will defend his WBC International super-welterweight title against Liam Williams in support of the main event, while Mark Heffron will challenge for the British middleweight title.

Belfast’s blue chip featherweight prospect Michael Conlan (9-0) also features on the bill along with world flyweight title challenger Paddy Barnes (5-1) and unbeaten Light Heavyweight contender Steven Ward (9-0).

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 Eventim.

Germany’s Noel Mikaelian believes he has what is takes November 10 in the Ali Trophy Cruiserweight Quarter-Final against Latvia’s Mairis Briedis at the UIC Pavilion in Chicago, USA.

Tickets are available via TicketMaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000.

“Boxing is a really tough sport and somehow you get addicted to it,” said 28-year-old Mikaelian (24-1, 10 KOs).

“If you are a boxer, you are a boxer for life. Boxing taught me that I am really disciplined; I got a dedication for the sport and I never give up.”

Mikaelian is a former WBO Youth champion and WBO International Cruiserweight Champion, but his biggest test to date is only days away.

“The quarter-final against Briedis… it is going to be a tough fight. He is the favorite, he is a really good fighter. He has a good school, the Soviet school, punching power. He is also a thinker in the ring, but I think I am the smarter one.

“I will do what is necessary to win. I fight after the model; hit and not get hit. That is boxing to me and how boxing should be.”

“I’ve been giving a second chance,” said Briedis (24-1, 18 KOs) one of the stars of Season I of the World Boxing Super Series.

And the Latvian sports hero is undoubtedly a favorite to take home this season’s Ali Trophy in the 200 lb division.

“I want to use this second opportunity. I am going to use it, and let us see how far I get. Each one of us in the tournament is different. It’s a very big test for myself. Both physically and psychologically.”

Last year in October the former WBC World Champion was awarded as Commander of the Order of the Three Stars, the highest state award in Latvia, for ‘outstanding achievements in sports and significant contribution to the promotion of Latvia in the world.’

“I want to show by my example that there is a need for Latvians, and not only Latvians, but for everyone in general to pull together. That people need to have fighting spirit,” said the 33-year-old.

“There are many things I have to work on myself, both physically and psychologically. I am not getting any younger, but I am going to do everything I can.

“Physically I feel good in myself. My physical indexes are good. Now, the most important thing, with God’s help, is to work hard with all my boxing techniques. I want to show what I am capable of in boxing and show what I am like.”

Mairis Briedis vs Noel Mikaelian and Krzysztof Glowacki vs Maksim Vlasov are the two Cruiserweight Quarter-Finals on an incredible doubleheader when the World Boxing Super Series comes to the UIC Pavilion in Chicago.

Fans in the U.S. can watch the quarter-finals LIVE on DAZN, the global sports streaming platform. To sign up for a one-month free trial, fans can visit DAZN.com or download the DAZN app to their preferred connected device.

Several local prospects will highlight the exciting undercard.

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CREDENTIAL APPLICATIONS
To apply for credentials, please email:

Peter Banke
Head of Press, World Boxing Super Series
peb@worldboxingsuperseries.com

When applying, please include your name(s), media affiliation, email address, telephone number and if you are requesting a spot in the press section or ringside photography. Please note there are only a limited number of ringside photography spots and you may be assigned to an auxiliary photo section.

Women’s superstar and two-division world champion Claressa Shields is in Florida with trainer John David Jackson, finishing up preparations for her showdown with Glasgow, Scotland’s Hannahh Rankin on Saturday, November 17, at the Kansas Star Arena and Casino in Mulvane, Kansas.

Shields (6-0, 2 KOs) will defend her IBF and WBA World Middleweight Championships, and be looking to add the vacant WBC title, against Rankin (5-2, 1 KO) in the 10-round co-featured bout to Salita Promotions stablemate Jarrell Miller’s heavyweight showdown against Romania’s Bogdan Dinu.

Both fights, along with former world champion Brandon Rios taking on Canelo’s brother, Ramon Alvarez, in a super welterweight 10-rounder and former two-time world middleweight title challenger Gabriel Rosado going against once-beaten contender Luis Arias, will be broadcast live on DAZN.

23-year-old Shields, a former two-time Olympic Gold Medallist, has reignited interest in women’s boxing and become a ratings favorite for her nationally televised championship exploits. A proud native of Flint, Michigan, Shields mixes her brash pronouncements of greatness with a genuine and continued effort to inspire female athletes and render aid to members of her home community.

Shields was originally scheduled to face WBC and WBO World Middleweight Champion Christina Hammer on November 17, but the bout was postponed after Hammer withdrew due to medical reasons.

Did the change of opponents from Hammer to Rankin affect your training?

I don’t train for my opponents, I just push to get the best out of me, physically and mentally. If I’m the best ‘me,’ I don’t have to worry about who the opponent is. The change of opponents didn’t bother me at all; the worst thing about this camp for me was just all the date changes – constantly having to get my mind focused on the pace and timing of training depending on the fight date. I can’t wait to get in the ring!

You’ve fought at super middleweight 168 and recently at middleweight 160 pounds. How is your training, diet and any other efforts different to make 160?

Training is always hard and I’m constantly learning. I’ve had a completely different diet this camp – a real change and a positive one for me. I’ve teamed up with Perfecting Athletes for my daily meals, and I feel great. I’ve always tried to eat healthy but these folks are pros and are more educated in that field than myself. I have this magic drink that makes my stomach smile – I love it! It’s watermelon mixed with a green vegetable. I’m not going to tell you what vegetable it is, but I’ve been drinking it everyday, and I feel GREAT.

Your viewership numbers have been very strong. Why do you think people are drawn to you?

I believe that people are drawn to how real and honest I am, both in and out of the ring. I say what I mean and mean what I say. I’m hard but I have a soft side also. And I think people are drawn to how I fight — not only do I talk a good game but I fight my a– off too! I give 1000% every time – I want to change the game and bring a whole new generation of fans to women’s boxing and boxing overall.

What do you know about your opponent Hannah Rankin?

I know that my opponent Rankin is very tough and determined to be a world champion. I like her drive, I like her heart. I know that she has been in the ring as a sparring partner for many champions, one being Christina Hammer. So Rankin has seen some good fighters. But one thing is for sure – she has never seen a fighter like me. And since Hammer couldn’t fight because of her medical condition, in many ways the next best thing is to fight and beat her sparring partner and let Rankin tell Hammer what she’s in for when she returns!

What needs to be done to solve the Flint water crisis?
To solve the flint Water crisis, I think that people should continue to give water and also keep it in the news that there is a city in America where, unbelievably, US citizens don’t have clean water. And hopefully the president or our governor do something to fix all the pipes.

What’s the secret to becoming the best of the best in any sport?

I believe the secret starts with believing in yourself, being dedicated, working hard and just always striving to be better. I feel I’m my biggest critic when I train and box. It’s hard to watch film of my fights because even though I’m doing 97 things right I just can’t stand to see the 3 things I’m doing wrong. I’m a person who strives to pull out my full potential. It takes guts to be great. Nothing will stand in the way of achieving my goals, which includes being the GWOAT and creating equality for all women fighters when it comes to the money, opportunities and coverage the men get.

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About Salita Promotions

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

LOS ANGELES (November 5, 2018) – WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder held a jam-packed media day Monday in Los Angeles where he discussed his blockbuster matchup against lineal heavyweight champion Tyson Fury taking place Saturday, December 1 on SHOWTIME PPV® from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

Wilder arrived in Los Angeles, along with trainer Jay Deas, to show off his skills in front of media at Churchill Boxing Club in Santa Monica. The most significant heavyweight event in the U.S. in more than 15 years, 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.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by BombZquad Enterprises and Queensberry Promotions, in association with DiBella Entertainment and TGB Promotions, are on sale now. Ticket prices start at $75, plus applicable fees and are available via AXS.com. Wilder vs. Fury will be produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV.

Here is what Wilder and Deas had to say Thursday at media day, where Wilder was joined by his girlfriend Telli Swift and their eight-month-old daughter Kaorii:

DEONTAY WILDER

“I feel like I’m at my very best right now. Mentally, physically and emotionally I’m ready to go. Everything is perfect. I just want to get in the ring and show action. Tyson Fury doesn’t know what he’s gotten himself into.

“As a true champion, I know how to adjust to any fighter that’s in front of me. My experience facing fighters of all styles has prepared me for this special fight.

“I’ve had tremendous sparring. Every day I’m making adjustments and getting myself right so I can get my timing and style exactly how it needs to be. If the fight was this weekend, Deontay Wilder is ready to go.

“Luis Ortiz was the most avoided fighter in the heavyweight division and I understand why he had never gotten the title shot before. I’m the type of fighter who gives people opportunities and he was the fighter I needed to face to prove to the world what I’m all about.

“This is not a game for me. Everyone has heard about what it’s like to be in the ring with me, but until you’re in there, you don’t know for sure that what you’ve been hearing is for real. I’m the best in the world. I don’t think any heavyweight has been through what I’ve been through.

“I’m training for a certain type of mission. As a fighter I have to have the mindset that I must be ready for anything. Then, once it’s time for the bell to ring, I become ‘The Bronze Bomber’.

“Fury has height just like me and he also brings an awkward style like myself. He’s rangy, mobile and he believes he’s the best in the world. You’ll get two giants who are athletic and move around the ring like no one else in this sport.

“They say that I have the power and he has the boxing skills. We’ll see on December 1. It’s a puncher versus a boxer. I think the puncher is going to box his lights out, and then I’m going to knock his lights out.

“I don’t watch too much film or study guys past getting their style down and seeing how they use their styles. My trainers watch film and use that knowledge to give me advice throughout the fight. I find that my opponents fight differently depending on who they’re facing, so I can’t dwell too much on watching past fights.”

JAY DEAS, Wilder’s Trainer

“Tyson Fury is kind of like a Rubik’s cube. But a Rubik’s cube can be solved. Fury is a very versatile fighter who can move, he can box and fight from lots of distances. He’s the total package as a fighter and on top of that he’s strong-willed mentally.

“We have our hands full, but I know that Deontay Wilder is the guy to handle Tyson Fury. Deontay is the the right guy to take over boxing and this is the first step in that.

“Deontay has had a fantastic camp and we’ve had really good sparring partners. Fury is a tall fighter, but it’s really the athleticism that makes him what he is. We believe we’re better off finding more athletic guys who are slightly shorter than Fury, rather than someone his height who is a statue.

“Fortunately Deontay has always been a focused fighter, so keeping him right mentally I don’t think will ever be a problem. Deontay can handle any chaos around him better than anyone I’ve seen. When he says he’s the man for this job, he really means it.

“The tough thing with preparing for Tyson Fury is that even he doesn’t know exactly what he’s going to do in there. He can fight lefty, righty, dirty or clean. We’re working on being prepared for all of these things and more.

“Both guys are very athletic and very awkward style-wise, but once this fight combusts, it’s going to be phenomenal. You don’t want to blink or go to the bathroom, the pretzel can wait, because you’re going to want to catch every second of it.”

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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.

Former welterweight champion Kell Brook will take on Michael Zerafa on December 8th in Sheffield, England, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

Brook is aiming to eventually fight at 147 pounds for a much-anticipated showdown with British rival Amir Khan in 2019, but he needs to take care of business against Zerafa for that fight to be finalized.

“We know that the Khan fight is on the horizon, but this is all part of Kell’s preparation for being razor-sharp and bringing his weight down to 147 pounds. Zerafa aims to spoil the party,” promoter Eddie Hearn said.

“I’m delighted to be back at Sheffield Arena in front of my people,” Brook said. “‘The Special One’ is back, and all of my focus and attention is on getting myself ready to put on a spectacular performance for my loyal fans. I want to close the year in special fashion and set up some blockbuster fights in 2019. I was ringside for Amir Khan’s last fight [on Sept. 8], so let’s see if he’ll be there on Dec. 8, or will he be too shook for Brook?”

“This is the biggest opportunity of Zerafa’s career, and he will be coming over here to take my scalp, but there’s levels in this game, and I need to put him away to get the big fights that I desire,” Brook said. “Meticulous work, dedication, preparation and focus has gone into this camp and I will continue to grind until fight week.”

“I thrive from being the underdog, and I believe that Kell Brook’s team have made the mistake of overlooking me,” Zerafa said. “I’m a completely different fighter to the man that lost to Peter Quillin, and on Dec. 8 I will prove that.

“I’ve already dreamt of beating Kell and replayed the fight over and over in my head. I was born for greatness, and Dec. 8 is the beginning of my rise to the top of the sport. Kell is a true warrior and a great champion, but he’s been in some tough fights and put a lot of miles on the clock. I see a ship with a lot of holes ,and too many holes leads to a sunken ship. On Dec. 8 there will be a huge upset, and I will make a lot of people eat their words.”

Wade, 28 years-old of Largo, Maryland has a record of 18-1 with 12 knockouts.

Wade was a four-time Junior Olympic Champion and a participant in the 2007 Olympic Boxing Trials.

He turned professional on March 14, 2009 with a 1st round stoppage over undefeated Chris Davis (3-0). Wade climbed up the rankings with victories over Michael Faulk (2-0), Grover Young (4-0), Nick Brinson (16-1-2) and former world champion Sam Soliman.

Those wins catapulted Wade to face unified Middleweight world champion Gennady Golovkin on April 23, 2016 at The Forum in Inglewood, California.

Wade suffered his only professional defeat in that fight, and has not fought since the world title opportunity.

“I am excited to get back in the ring, and the show the world what I got. I will get back to the top of the rankings, and do it better, and more proper this time.” said Wade.

“It is time to show the world that I am back. I want to take my time until the big fights come up. I can see me in fights against Canelo Alvarez, Golvkin, Daniel Jacobs, Jermall Charlo, Demetrius Andrade or any of the other top middleweights out there. I feel that after a couple of fights, I will be up there with the top names in the division. I am just excited to do my thing. I got to the top of the rankings with just natural talent. Now I have a good team behind me with GH3 Promotions, I have a great work ethic, and I am back with my original trainer Adrian Davis. I feel the best is still ahead of me.”

“I feel that we can get Dominic back to the top really soon. I plan to have him fight November 17th in Indiana, then I want to bring him back in December in New Jersey, and a 3rd fight in January, that will get him in a fight that will get him in position. He has always had the talent, now he is with us, and we will have him on a schedule to get him back in the rankings, and eventually another world title shot,” said Vito Mielnicki of GH3 Promotions.

NEW YORK CITY (Nov. 5, 2018) – Teofimo Lopez is determined to take over the lightweight division. Italian heavyweight and former amateur standout Guido Vianello, who recently signed a multi-year professional contract with Top Rank, is hoping to make a statement in his scheduled six-round pro debut against Luke Lyons (5-1-1, 2 KOs).

Lopez (10-0, 8 KOs), who hails from Brooklyn, will battle Mason Menard (34-3, 24 KOs) for the vacant NABF lightweight title in a 10-rounder on the undercard of the Vasiliy Lomachenko-Jose Pedraza lightweight world title unification bout, Dec. 8 at the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden.

Lomachenko-Pedraza, Isaac Dogboe’s WBO junior featherweight title defense against Emanuel Navarrete, and Lopez-Menard will headline a special edition of Top Rank on ESPN at 9 p.m. ET, which will follow the 84th Annual Heisman Memorial Trophy Presentation.

Vianello-Lyons and the rest of the undercard will stream live at 6 p.m. ET 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.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Madison Square Garden, tickets for this world championship event are on sale now. Priced at $506, $356, $206, $106, and $56, tickets can be purchased at the Madison Square Garden Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster charge by phone (866-858-0008), and online at ticketmaster.com and MSG.com.

“The ‘Takeover’ is coming back to the Mecca of Boxing,” Lopez said. “I am going to steal the show once again. It’s my night. It’s time to finish 2018 with a bang. Expect a big celebration after I stop Mason Menard. I was born in Brooklyn, so you know I have to represent my hometown.”

“I am looking forward to fighting Teofimo on Dec. 8. It’s been my dream to fight at Madison Square Garden, and the fact that I am being given a chance to perform on Lomachenko’s undercard live on ESPN is incredible,” Menard said. “I can assure everyone that I will be 100 percent ready, and my performance will lead me to a world title shot.”

“I am so happy to be joining Top Rank and to debut at Madison Square Garden on a Lomachenko undercard, which is a dream come true for me,” Vianello said. “I will do my country proud. I promise I will bring excitement and knockouts to the heavyweight division and ultimately fulfill my destiny of becoming the heavyweight champion of the world.”

The 21-year-old Lopez emerged in 2018 with a string of dominating wins and attention-grabbing post-win dances. In May, on the Lomachenko-Jorge Linares undercard at Madison Square Garden, he knocked out Vitor Jones Freitas in the opening round and went viral after performing the “Take The L” dance from the Fortnite video game. He last fought July 14 in New Orleans, knocking out the durable William Silva in six rounds despite suffering a broken right hand earlier in the fight. He underwent surgery the following week. Fully recovered, Lopez hopes to make headlines once again. Menard, an 11-year pro with a vicious right hand, is coming off a decision victory against Ronald Rivas on Oct. 13 in Gary, Ind.

Vianello, a 6-foot-6 power puncher from Rome, went 87-15 in the amateur ranks and fell short in the Round of 16 at the 2016 Olympics. One of the most popular boxers to emerge from the Italian amateur system in quite some time, Vianello is training in Big Bear Lake, Calif., under the guidance of Abel Sanchez. He’s already sparred the likes of lineal heavyweight champion Tyson Fury as he prepares his transition to the paid ranks.

In addition to Vianello-Lyons, the ESPN+ stream will include:

Welterweight punching sensation Alexander Besputin (11-0, 9 KOs) will make the first defense of his USBA title against Juan Carlos Abreu (21-4-1, 19 KOs) in a 10-rounder. Besputin knocked out Alan Sanchez on Sept. 14 to win the belt. Abreu is coming off a competitive unanimous decision defeat to Egidijus Kavaliauskas, which headlined an ESPN broadcast on July 7 in Fresno, Calif.

Josue “The Prodigy” Vargas (11-1, 7 KOs), from The Bronx, N.Y., will make his Top Rank debut against John Renteria (16-5-1, 12 KOs) in an eight-round super lightweight fight. Vargas has won five straight since his lone defeat, which came via disqualification against Samuel Santana.

Michael Perez (25-2-2, 11 KOs) will come back from a nearly 20-month layoff to take on Abdiel Ramirez (23-3-1, 21 KOs) in an eight-rounder at lightweight. Perez, a longtime contender, hails from Newark, N.J.

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

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

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

About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the premium multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer & International (DTCI) segment in conjunction with ESPN.ESPN+ offers fans two exclusives, original boxing programs: The Boxing Beat with Dan Rafael (Tuesdays, weekly) and Counterpunch (twice monthly). In addition to exclusive Top Rank boxing content, programming on ESPN+ includes hundreds of MLB, NHL and MLS games, thousands of college sports events (including football, basketball and multiple other sports from more than 15 conferences), UFC (beginning in 2019), Grand Slam tennis, international and domestic rugby, cricket, new and exclusive documentary films and series, acclaimed studio shows and the full library of ESPN’s award-winning 30 for 30 films. Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) and cancel at any time.