New York, New York (May 23, 2018)

STAR BOXING’S “Rockin’ Fights” series has seen major success at the Paramount since its creation in 2011. The chic Huntington venue has become the hub for boxing on Long Island. Promoter JOE DEGUARDIA continues to develop world-class talent at The Paramount, most notably world champion, CHRIS ALGIERI, light heavyweight sensation, JOE SMITH JR., and Long Island knockout artist CLETUS “THE HEBREW HAMMER” SELDIN. DeGuardia says the fighters developing at the Paramount feed off the great Long Island boxing fans that come out in droves to every “Rockin’ Fights” event supporting their local favorites.

Chris Algieri (21-3 8KO’s) defeated the feared Rusian Provodnikov, on HBO at the Barclay’s Center in 2014, getting off the canvas in round one, to earn the World Championship. Algieri later went on to face some of the biggest and best fighters in the world, including Manny Pacquiao (in Macao China), Amir Khan, and Errol Spence Jr.. Algieri first fought at The Paramount in 2011, and his eight appearances at The Paramount developed him into a world champion.

Joe Smith Jr. (23-2 18KO’s) burst onto the scene in 2016 when, as a 20-1 underdog, he blasted then, #2 rated light heavyweight contender, Andrzej Fonfara in Chicago on NBC (1st Round KO). Smith Jr. then took on the legendary Bernard Hopkins at The Forum in California on HBO, as he became the first fighter to ever knockout the legend, using a devastating left hand to knockout Hopkins (sending him clear out of the ring). Smith Jr. began his development at The Paramount in 2014, securing four knockout victories in four bouts. “THE BEAST” Joe Smith Jr. returns to the ring on June 30th at Mohegan Sun Arena. (Tickets for Joe Smith Jr. fight at Mohegan Sun on June 30th can be purchased HERE.)

Cletus Seldin (21-1 17KO’s) started his reign at The Paramount in 2011, leading way to becoming the venue’s all-time wins record holder. During his sixteen fights at The Paramount, Seldin owned an unblemished record, recording fourteen knockouts over that time. During his time at The Paramount, Seldin earned the WBC International Silver Super Lightweight title, which eventually led to his HBO appearance against Roberto Ortiz, in which Seldin lived up to his name, “The Hebrew Hammer”, destroying Ortiz in three-rounds.

“Rockin’ Fights 31” will give fans the chance to see if undefeated Elmont prospect TYRONE “PRETTY BOY” JAMES (7-0 4KO’s) is likely to be the next star to come out of The Paramount. Fans can see and evaluate if James can follow the footsteps of the elite alumni of the Paramount and break on to the biggest and brightest lights in the boxing. Tyrone’s fans certainly can feel it as he has begun to bring the same enthusiastic fans that have made the Paramount such a breeding ground for boxing’s bright lights.

Tyrone comes from an athletic background as his father, Derell, was a standout professional football player for the Oklahoma Outlaws of the USFL and his uncle Jerry was a National Golden Glove champion. Tyrone began boxing at the age of 10, and as an amateur, he won the Nebraska Golden Gloves and became a five-time Junior Olympic champion. He had a stellar amateur record of 79-16.

Fighting five-times at The Paramount, Tyrone James has shown promising speed, and growing power every fight. In his last appearance, he stepped up to face Alex DeJesus (then 13-3-1 10 KO’S). In the third-round at the 1:43 mark, Tyrone landed a flush left hand, stumbling DeJesus, followed by an onslaught of combinations, as the referee called a stop to the action.

On June 8th, Tyrone James will face Keasen Freeman (4-2 2KO’s) of Aiken, South Carolina in his sixth bout at The Paramount. Freeman has recently taken on the likes of Gary Russell (6-0 6KO’s) and Irish prospect Aaron McKenna (3-0 2KO’s). James is looking to climb to the top but the tough Freeman looks to stand in his way.

Joe DeGuardia had this to say about rising star, Tyrone James, “I remember seeing Tyrone for the first time in 2016, and was impressed by his length and speed. Two years later, Tyrone continues to develop in every fight we put him in. We have had serious success here at The Paramount with Chris Algieri, Joe Smith Jr. and Cletus Seldin, and I would not be surprised if Tyrone James is the next name added to that list.”
GET YOUR TICKETS TO ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 31 TODAY!
FIGHT: FRIDAY, JUNE 8TH, 2018
$50, $60, $100, $150, $200
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FACTS:
Featured in the main event is Queens native, DANNY “EL GALLO” GONZALEZ who is in search of his eighth consecutive win at The Paramount. See the next generation of New York rising stars such as TYRONE JAMES, MICHAEL STOUTE, JOHNNY HERNANDEZ and JOHN ARROYO.

*If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, please email us at TonyPalmieri@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.
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23 May 2018 – Yangon, Myanmar: The largest global sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship™ (ONE), has just announced the main event for the upcoming card, ONE: SPIRIT OF A WARRIOR, which is set for 29 June at the Thuwunna Indoor Stadium in Yangon, Myanmar. Reigning ONE Middleweight and Light Heavyweight World Champion “The Burmese Python” Aung La N Sang of Myanmar will defend his middleweight title against Ken Hasegawa of Japan.

Ticket information for ONE: SPIRIT OF A WARRIOR is available at www.onefc.com.

Chatri Sityodtong, Chairman and CEO of ONE Championship, stated: “Whenever Aung La N Sang steps foot on Myanmar soil, he is greeted by throngs of screaming fans. He truly is Myanmar’s biggest star, and is a great representative of the country’s strength and resolve. Our ONE Middleweight and Light Heavyweight World Champion is ready to face a tough new opponent in Japan’s Ken Hasegawa, and I am super excited for another action-packed evening in Yangon. ONE: SPIRIT OF A WARRIOR is shaping up to be one of the biggest nights in Myanmar’s martial arts history, and fans will not want to miss what goes down at the Thuwunna Indoor Stadium.”

33-year-old Aung La N Sang is Myanmar’s most successful athlete in history, whose impressive submission skills have earned him the moniker of ”The Burmese Python”. Born in Myitkyina in the mountainous Kachin State, he belongs to an ethnic minority known as the Kachin. Aung La N Sang captured the ONE Middleweight World Championship with a unanimous decision victory over Vitaly Bigdash in June of 2017. In his most recent bout, he defeated Brazil’s Alexandre Machado to be crowned the new ONE Light Heavyweight World Champion. Next up, Aung La N Sang will defend his middleweight title against Ken Hasegawa.

31-year-old Ken Hasegawa of Kanagawa, Japan is a martial arts veteran set to make his ONE Championship debut. The middleweight contender has finished three of his last five opponents, showcasing the undeniable submission skills and thunderous knockout power that he has become known for competing in Japanese martial arts promotions Deep and Rizin. With a professional record of 16-2-1, which includes four submissions and six scintillating knockouts, Hasegawa will step into the ONE Championship cage for the first time at ONE: SPIRIT OF A WARRIOR. He is set to challenge Aung La N Sang for the ONE Middleweight World Championship.

Aung La N Sang, ONE Middleweight and Light Heavyweight World Champion, stated: “It is always a pleasure and a privilege to share my skills and talents to everyone back home. As champion, I am willing to take on all comers. It is an honor to represent the country of Myanmar on the biggest global stage of martial arts competition. This world championship means a lot to me, to those who have been behind my career from the very beginning, to my family, and to my friends. I will do everything in my power to defend this title against the hungry lion that is Ken Hasegawa.”

Ken Hasegawa, ONE World Title Challenger, stated: “After eight years of excellence as a professional, I have reached the next stage in my career, and I can’t be any more excited for what is in store for me. I am grateful to ONE Championship for giving me the opportunity to showcase my talents to the world. It is an honor to face Aung La N Sang for the belt. I respect him and what he has accomplished, but I am confident of victory, and my hand will be raised as the new middleweight champion.”

For more updates on ONE Championship, please visit www.onefc.com, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @ONEChampionship, and like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ONEChampionship.

About ONE Championship™

ONE Championship is the largest global sports media property in Asian history. Headquartered in Singapore, ONE Championship is the home of martial arts and is the world’s largest martial arts organization, hosting bouts across all styles of martial arts such as Muay Thai, Kickboxing, Karate, Kung Fu, Silat, Sanda, Lethwei, Mixed Martial Arts, Tae Kwon Do, Submission Grappling, and more. The world’s most exciting martial arts organization hosts the largest sports entertainment events across Asia, featuring some of the world’s best martial artists and world champions, all signed to exclusive contracts, on the largest media broadcast in Asia. In addition to its digital platforms, ONE Championship broadcasts to over 1.7 billion potential viewers across 136 countries around the world with some of the largest global broadcasters, including Fox Sports, ABS-CBN, Astro, ClaroSports, Bandsports, Startimes, Premier Sports, Thairath TV, Skynet, Mediacorp, OSN, and more.

LOS ANGELES (May 22, 2018) – Featherweight world champion Leo Santa Cruz hosted a media workout in Los Angeles Tuesday as he prepares for his world title rematch against four-time world champion Abner Mares Saturday, June 9 live on SHOWTIME from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will also feature unbeaten super welterweight world champion Jermell Charlo defending his title against former world champion Austin Trout.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Ringstar Sports and TGB Promotions, begin at $50, plus applicable fees, and are on sale now. To purchase tickets visit AXS.com or click HERE.

Santa Cruz and Mares first battled in August 2015 at STAPLES Center with Santa Cruz earning the majority decision and a vacant featherweight title. The consensus top-five featherweights will look to put on a repeat of the performance that saw them throw over 2,000 punches combined.

Santa Cruz was joined at City of Angels Boxing Tuesday by his father and trainer, Jose Santa Cruz, and Ringstar Sports Chairman and CEO Richard Schaefer. Here is what they had to say Tuesday:

LEO SANTA CRUZ

“I think Abner has looked better in recent fights, but not so much that he looks unbeatable or anything. He’s shown some improvements but I feel I’ve gotten much better as well. It’s going to be a great fight and I’m going to come out victorious.

“He says he’s going to box me more this time, but it’s easier to say that than do it. When you get in the ring and hear the fans, they make you want to brawl. Once you hear the crowd you want to entertain them. You love to hear the people scream.

“I’m going to try to go out there and give the fans a great fight like I always do. I feel like I’m in great condition right now. I feel a lot stronger and even my dad has told me this is as good as he’s seen me look.

“I’ve learned a lot since the first Mares fight. I’ve learned how to adjust during a fight better. I’m a more complete fighter and it’s going to help me look even better this time.

“I’m still as motivated as ever. I have the same hunger as if this fight was for my first title. I never underestimate anyone and always give it my all in the gym. It’s no different heading into this one.

“We’re going to try to win bigger this time but I’ll be ready to go 12 rounds. I’d definitely love to stop him. If the knockout comes it comes, and if I see an opening I’m going to take advantage.

“I try to motivate my dad as much as I can by training hard. He says he’s happiest when I’m working hard so I just keeping trying to push it every day and make sure he’s happy.

“The two fights with Frampton definitely made me a better fighter. They gave me a lot of experience and I learned a lot from those fights. I know I’m going to be a better fighter for this fight than the first time we fought.

“We always prepare for 12 rounds. I’ve been going 13 rounds in sparring because my dad always likes to go one extra. This has been one of the best camps we’ve had as far as conditioning and sparring.

“I am ready to unify with any of the featherweight champions. Me and Gary Russell Jr. fought in the amateurs. He beat me but it was a good fight and I believe I can beat him. I know the tactics I’d use. Hopefully I can get my rematch.

“We’re focused on improving everything in camp. We’re working on my power, speed, foot work and all of the skills it will take to win this rematch.”

JOSE SANTA CRUZ, Leo’s Father & Trainer

“The first fight with Mares was a bit rough and even dirty at times. After four rounds I felt like they were stealing the fight from us so I told Leo to tire him out and show that he’s the better boxer. The results of the fight proved that.

“There are a lot of great fighters out there but not many have good defensive techniques and that is where every fighter can improve. With my kids and with Leo I have always trained him to be good defensively because anyone can throw punches but not everyone can take a punch and keep going. I have always loved this sport but I love to win even more. Leo is still growing but I think he’s the best fighter at featherweight right now.

“I definitely think that Mares will come with new skills to this fight and have a different approach with his new trainer now that he’s with Robert Garcia. I think he’ll try to box more and look to get us on the counterpunch.”

RICHARD SCHAEFER, Chairman & CEO of Ringstar Sports

“Leo is the kind of fighter who always rises to the occasion and always finds a way to come out victorious. It’s really a 50-50 fight. I can give you a lot of reasons why both guys are going to win. It’s the best fight on June 9 and it’s one of the best fights you’re going to see this year.

“Leo Santa Cruz and Abner Mares are never going to be in a boring fight. They create special action and drama in the ring. The winners are going to be the fight fans every time.

“This is an important fight for both of these guys. It’s about bragging rights in Los Angeles and in the loaded featherweight division. I know that it’s going to bring out the best in both fighters.

“Leo won a very narrow decision that could have gone either way, but Leo pulled it out in the first fight. Abner and Robert Garcia have meshed really well and Robert has been able to bring the best out of Abner. He’s going to give Leo Santa Cruz a great challenge again and with the fight in Los Angeles, the fans will definitely propel both guys to go extra hard.

“These are the kind of fights that fans love. This is the kind of fight that transcends boxing. These are two fighters who are just incapable of being in a boring fight. They put people on their feet.”

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.staplescenter.comfollow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing @LeoSantaCruz2, @AbnerMares, @Ringstar, @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.PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

(May 22, 2018) — The “Monster” will wake up American fight fans on Friday morning.

From the Ota-City General Gymnasium in Tokyo, two-weight world champion Naoya “Monster” Inoue will move up in weight to face WBA bantamweight champion Jamie McDonnell, and WBC light flyweight champion Ken Shiro will make the third defense of his belt in a rematch against Ganigan Lopez. This world championship doubleheader, promoted by Ohashi Promotions and Teiken Promotions, will be broadcast live and exclusively in the United States at 7:15 a.m. ET on ESPN+ — the recently-launched multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer and International segment and ESPN.

Inoue (15-0, 13 KOs) has been competing at the world level since 2014 when, in his sixth professional bout, he knocked out Adrian Hernandez in the sixth round to win the WBC light flyweight title. Later that year, he moved up two weight classes and stopped longtime WBO junior bantamweight champion Omar Narvaez in the second round. After making seven defenses of that title, Inoue is moving up to fight an established champion in McDonnell (29-2-1, 13 KOs), who has made six title defenses since winning the belt in May 2014.

Shiro (12-0, 6 KOs) won the WBC light flyweight over Lopez via majority decision in a closely contested bout May 20 of last year in Tokyo. Lopez (28-7, 17 KOs) fought valiantly in the championship rounds, but Shiro did just enough to earn the decision. Shiro last fought on December 30, scoring a fourth-round TKO over Gilberto Pedroza. For Lopez, this will be his first sanctioned fight since he lost the title.

ESPN+ is the first-ever multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer and International segment and ESPN. ESPN+ also offers fans two exclusive, original boxing programs The Boxing Beat with Dan Rafael (Mondays, weekly) and In This Corner (twice monthly). In addition to boxing content, fans that subscribe to ESPN+ get thousands of additional live events, on-demand content and original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks – for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year).

About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the first-ever multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer and International segment and ESPN. It offers fans thousands of additional live events, on-demand content and original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks. This includes hundreds of MLB, NHL and MLS games, Grand Slam tennis, Top Rank boxing, PGA Tour golf, college sports, international rugby, cricket, the full library of ESPN Films (including 30 for 30) and more. Fans can subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) and cancel at any time.

New York, NY (May 22, 2018) DiBella Entertainment has announced the signing of
top female prospect Tiara Brown (4-0, 2 KOs), an undefeated junior lightweight from
Washington, D.C.

“I am so proud to have signed Tiara Brown,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “She is a terrific fighter and an even better person. Tiara is a fulltime Washington, D.C. police officer, a mentor to kids and teens, and a true role model. She is another example of the strong, empowered women boxers who deserve to have their platform.”

“I’m so honored to be working with Lou and his team,” said Brown. “He works from his heart, especially for his female fighters and I felt great being around him. He’s had a great amount of success with numerous female fighters and, given his track record, this is a perfect fit for me.”

A three-year veteran of the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Police Department working in the Sixth District, Brown has the full support of her fellow officers who regularly attend her fights.

“The police department and the Chief of Police, Peter Newsham, are big supporters of mine and I look forward to putting on another show for them on June 30,” said Brown. “I’m here to make an impact on my weight division and fight top contenders as soon as possible.”

Brown will return to action on Friday, June 30, in Washington, D.C. against Carla Torres in the main event at the Sphinx Club.

While competing as an amateur, Brown was a bronze medalist at the 2015 World Championships in Korea and a gold medalist at the 2012 World Championships in China.

LAS VEGAS (May 22, 2018) – Jose “Sniper” Pedraza is nearing a title shot while Shakur Stevenson is well on his way. Pedraza and Stevenson will see action June 9 on the Terence Crawford vs. Jeff Horn world championship event at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Pedraza (23-1, 12 KOs), from Cidra, Puerto Rico, will challenge Antonio Moran (22-2, 15 KOs) in a 10-rounder for the WBO Latino lightweight belt, while Stevenson (6-0, 3 KOs), the 2016 U.S. Olympic silver medalist, will step up in class against Aelio Mesquita (16-1, 14 KOs) in an eight-round featherweight contest.

And, in a battle of unbeatens, welterweight contender Jose Benavidez (26-0, 17 KOs) will face the iron-fisted Frank Rojas (22-0, 21 KOs) of Caracas, Venezuela, in a 10-rounder.

Crawford vs. Horn and Pedraza vs. Moran will be streamed exclusively on ESPN+ beginning at 9:30 p.m. ET., while Stevenson vs. Mesquita, Benavidez vs. Rojas, and other undercard bouts will be shown on ESPN+ starting at 6:30 p.m. ET.

Tickets for Crawford vs. Horn, priced at $500, $300, $200, $100, and $50 (limited availability), are on sale now and can be purchased online through axs.com, charge by phone at 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resorts box office.

Pedraza, a former IBF super featherweight champion who made two successful title defenses, returned from a 14-month layoff on March 17 to score a shutout, eight-round decision over Jose Luis Rodriguez. Moran is riding a three-bout winning streak since a split decision defeat to Emanuel Lopez.

“I am excited because this will be my first fight in Las Vegas, which everyone knows is the fight capital of the world. I am determined to give a great performance,” Pedraza said. “I know Moran is a good fighter and coming to upset my plans, but I have worked very hard to make sure that does not happen. I expect to be victorious on June 9 and will continue to show I am a force at lightweight.”

Benavidez, who once held the interim WBA super lightweight title, will be fighting for the second time since returning from an 18-month layoff. Rojas has knocked out 19 opponents in a row and has fought all but one of his pro bouts in his native Venezuela.

“I have 21 knockouts in 22 fights. On June 9, I will add another knockout to my record,” Rojas said. “I’m coming for you, Benavidez! I’m 100 percent ready to give the fans a great fight. I hope you are ready because I’m going to knock you out. I’m going to rip his head off. Get ready.”

“I hope that Rojas trained hard and that he comes well prepared because I’m determined to stop him,” Benavidez said. “Rojas will not touch me at all. He will not rip my head off because I’m going to rip his head off first.”

Stevenson is coming off a career-best performance on April 28 in Philadelphia, when he knocked out the previously undefeated Patrick Riley in the second round.

“I’ve gotten the chance to fight at Madison Square Garden, and now I’m ready for my Las Vegas debut at MGM Grand on June 9,” Stevenson said. “There have been so many historic fights in that arena and now it’s my turn. It’s always fun to fight on Terence’s undercards. The Crawford family has adopted me, so I’m going to put on a great performance for them and everyone watching at MGM and on ESPN+.”

Also appearing on the undercard will be Maxim “Mad Max” Dadashev (10-0, 9 KOs), an Egis Klimas-managed fighter, who will be fighting former WBA lightweight champion Darleys Perez (33-3-2, 21 KOs) in a 10-rounder for the vacant NABF super lightweight title.

Light heavyweight prospect Steve Nelson (10-0, 8 KOs), who is trained and managed by Brian “BoMac” McIntyre, will face Dashon Webster (10-1, 8 KOs) in a six-rounder.

Gabe Flores, Jr. (7-0, 5 KOs) will fight the unbeaten Dustin Southichack (4-0-1, 1 KO) in a six-round featherweight bout. The 18-year-old Flores, who made his pro debut just after his 17th birthday, will be making his third ring appearance of 2018.

Top prospect David Kaminsky (1-0) will see action in a six-round super welterweight bout against Trevor Lavin (1-0, 1 KO) of Topeka, Kan.

For more information visit: www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing, Facebook: facebook.com/trboxing, facebook.com/espndeportes; Twitter: @trboxing, @ESPN, @ESPNBoxeo, @ESPNDeportes. Use the hashtag #CrawfordHorn to join the conversation on social media.

The ESPN App and ESPN+ are available on mobile and TV-connected devices and on ESPN.com. The new ESPN App with ESPN+ is available on devices and platforms including Amazon (Fire TV, Fire Stick, Fire Smart TVs, Fire tablets), Android (Android phones, Android TV), Apple (iPhone, iPad, Apple TV and supported in the Apple TV App), Chromecast and Roku.

ESPN+ is the first-ever multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer and International segment and ESPN. ESPN+ also offers fans two exclusive, original boxing programs The Boxing Beat with Dan Rafael (Mondays, weekly) and In This Corner (twice monthly). In addition to boxing content, fans that subscribe to ESPN+ get thousands of additional live events, on-demand content and original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks – for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year).

About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the first-ever multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer and International segment, in partnership with ESPN. It offers fans thousands of additional live events, on-demand content and original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks. This includes hundreds of MLB, NHL and MLS games, Grand Slam tennis, Top Rank boxing, PGA Tour golf, college sports, international rugby, cricket, the full library of ESPN Films (including 30 for 30) and more. Fans can subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) and cancel at any time.

ESPN+ is an integrated part of a completely redesigned ESPN App. Already the leading sports app, the new ESPN App is the premier all-in-one digital sports platform for fans and a showcase of the company’s culture of innovation. With a richer, increasingly more personalized experience, the new ESPN App curates all of ESPN’s incredible content into an experience unique to each fan’s individual tastes. ESPN+ is also available through ESPN.com.
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BENSALEM, PA—Anthony Prescott, of Cherry Hill, NJ, has agreed to a rematch with Isaiah Wise, of North Philadelphia, following their terrific fight March 9 at the Parx Casino®.

The entertaining six-round junior middleweight fight will serve as the semifinal to the eight-round main event of Xcite Fight Night 2 between flyweights Miguel Cartagena, of Philadelphia, and Carlos Maldonado, of Los Angeles, at Parx Casino® on Friday, June 29. The seven-fight card begins at 7:30 p.m.

Prescott (8-8-2, 2K0s), scored a knockdown in the second round en route to a six-round split decision victory in their first meeting, in what ended up as the Fight of the Night.

The 31-year-old Prescott ran track and played football at Cherry Hill East High School and he also played football (safety) at Kutztown University, where he studied Criminal Justice.

Prescott had 12 amateur fights, winning 11, before turning pro in 2012. His 8-8-2 record as a pro might not impress you, but he has boxed only three fighters (out of 18) who had losing records.

Prescott is 3-1 in his last four fights with wins over Wise and two Reading, PA natives, Erik Spring and Nicholas Hernandez.

“The first fight (with Wise) was fun to be a part of,” Prescott said. “Me and coach Nick (Rosario) had a good plan and we worked hard and executed. For the second fight I want to display clearly I’m the better fighter. I know Wise is gonna be coming with something to prove and so am I. I’ve been doing this for a while and it’s time to get respected.”

Wise, (6-2, 3K0s), is motivated to make a statement in this rematch against Prescott.

‘‘I’m excited to be back at Parx Casino®,” Wise said. “The first fight with Prescott was entertaining; the rematch will not disappoint expectations.”

Working as a personal trainer locally has given Wise, 25, the opportunity to grow his fan base, and he is known for always being in a good fight, so there is no question as to why there is always a great energy in the arena when he fights.

The crowd-pleasing fights that Wise has had the in the last year include his first fight with Prescott and unanimous decision wins over Fred Jenkins, Jr., of North Philadelphia, and then-undefeated Mark Daniels, Jr., of Wisconsin.

ABOUT JUNE 29

The June 29 card will consist of seven fights, beginning at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. The card is promoted by Joe Hand Promotions. This event is only for adults age 21 and older. Tickets priced at $50, $75 and $100 are on sale at Joe Hand Promotions (215-364-9000). You can also purchase tickets from the Hold My Ticket Call Center at (1-877-466-3404) and at www.parxcasino.com

ABOUT PARX CASINO®

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

Salita Promotions proudly announces that Living Essentials, LLC, the makers of 5-hour ENERGY®, the energy shot for hard-working people, has signed on as a principle sponsor of the upcoming “It’s Our Time to Shine” professional boxing event on Friday, June 22, at Masonic Temple in Detroit, Michigan.

Featuring two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and unified women’s super middleweight Champion Claressa Shields attempting to become a two-division world champion against unified 154-pound champion Hanna Gabriels, “It’s our Time to Shine” will be televised live on SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION (10 p.m. ET/PT). The two champions will be contesting for the vacant IBF and WBA Middleweight World Championships.

“I am delighted that the makers of 5-hour ENERGY® shots are supporting the historic world championship event taking place in Detroit,” said Salita Promotions Founder, Dmitriy Salita. ‘It’s Our Time to Shine’ will be an exciting night of professional boxing from beginning to end and I am sure a shot of 5-hour ENERGY® will keep fans engaged and energetic for all the exciting action happening in the ring.”

Living Essentials, LLC released the following statement: “The makers of 5-hour ENERGY® shots are excited to support Salita Promotions, as they prepare for the return of Claressa Shields and world championship boxing to Detroit – – a city rich in boxing history and the hometown of 5-hour ENERGY®.”

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Shields (5-0, 2 KOs), who grew up in nearby Flint, was the first American boxer in history – male or female – to win consecutive Olympic Gold Medals. The 23-year-old turned professional following the 2016 Olympics and became unified women’s super middleweight world champion in just her fourth professional fight. Shields now begins her first camp with renowned trainer John David Jackson as she attempts to become a two-division champion.

Two-division champion Gabriels (18-1-1, 11 KOs) is the reigning WBA and WBO World Champion. The native of Costa Rica won her first world title at welterweight in 2009 and has since fought in an astounding 11 consecutive world-title fights. The 35-year-old won her first belt in the 154-pound division in 2010 and became unified champion in 2016. In her last bout, Gabriels avenged the only loss on her record, a 2013 defeat to then-undefeated title challenger Oxandia Castillo. She looks to become a three-division world champion on June 22.

SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION will also feature extensive highlights of unified women’s middleweight champion Christina Hammer (22-0, 10 KOs) as she defends her WBC & WBO titles in her U.S. debut against former world champion Tori Nelson (17-1-3, 2 KOs).

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions, are available at Ticketmaster.com or at the Masonic Temple Box Office at (313) 832-7100. VIP tickets are priced at $300, ringside tickets at $125, and remaining tickets at $75, $50 and $35.

LONDON (22 May, 2018) – Super middleweight world champion Gilberto ‘Zurdo’ Ramirez will make the fourth defence of his WBO belt against the hard-hitting Roamer Alexis Angulo, live and exclusive on BoxNation.

Taking place at the home of the NBA’s Oklahoma City Thunder at Chesapeake Energy Arena on June 30th, 26-year-old Ramirez will face his third unbeaten challenger in a row as he defends his crown against the formidable Colombian Angulo.

Ramirez (37-0, 25 KOs), from Mazatlán, Mexico, became the first Mexican-born super middleweight champion when he shut out three-time world champion Arthur Abraham in 2016.

He has since gone on to beat Ukrainian Max Bursak, before a nip-and-tuck battle against No. 1 contender Jesse ‘Hollywood’ Hart, ultimately prevailing by unanimous decision.

In his last bout in February of this year Ramirez scored the first stoppage of his championship reign with a sixth-round TKO over Habib Ahmed.

His next challenge now comes against Angulo (23-0, 20 KOs), who has won his last five bouts by knockout, most recently winning the WBO Latino belt with a first-round knockout over Evert Bravo.

Now, as part of BoxNation’s exclusive output deal with promoters Top Rank, the pair will do battle next month live and exclusive in the UK and Ireland on ‘The Channel of Champions’ BoxNation.

“I want to prove that I’m the best fighter in the division. I’m willing to leave everything in the ring to defend my title,” Ramirez said. “I want to dedicate this fight to all the Mexicans and all the Latinos who reside in Oklahoma, I would like many of them to be present in the arena. That would motivate me even more. I’ll be waiting for you guys on June 30.”

Oklahoma City’s Alex ‘El Cholo’ Saucedo will also be on the bill as he looks to continue his march to a 140-pound title shot against Lenny Zappavigna in a 10-round special attraction.

Saucedo, ranked No. 3 by the WBO at 140 pounds, last fought in March against Abner Lopez, knocking him out in the seventh round with a left hook to the body.

Against Zappavigna, Saucedo will be fighting in his home city of Oklahoma City for the first time since 2014.

“We are looking forward to a great event in Oklahoma City. Zurdo Ramirez is always in great fights, and Angulo will give him a real battle,” said Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum, founder and CEO of Top Rank. “It’s also with great pride that we were able to put in Oklahoma City native Alex Saucedo against a world class fighter like Lenny Zappavigna.”

Jim McMunn, BoxNation Managing Director, said: “Gilberto Ramirez is one of the very best super-middleweights in the world and looks to be getting better and better each time we see him. Against Roamer Alexis Angulo he faces a real test against an undefeated and ferocious puncher who has everything to gain on June 30th. It’s going to be a great card, with Alex Saucedo also set to feature against Lenny Zappavigna, all live and exclusive on BoxNation.”

BoxNation is available on Sky/Freeview/Virgin/TalkTalk/EE/Apple TV/ online at watch.boxnation.com, via apps (iOS, Android, Amazon) and TV Player for just £12 a month. Buy now at boxnation.com.

– ENDS –

About BoxNation

BoxNation, the Channel of Champions and proud partner of Rainham Steel, is the UK’s first dedicated boxing channel. From £12* per month with no minimum term customers can enjoy great value live and exclusive fights, classic fight footage, magazine shows and interviews with current and former fighters.

Previous highlights have included Haye vs Chisora, Mayweather vs Maidana, Saunders vs Eubank Jr and Canelo vs Golovkin.

The channel is available on Sky (Ch.427), Freeview (Ch.255), Virgin (Ch.546), TalkTalk (Ch.415), TV Player, online at watch.boxnation.com and via apps (ios, Android, Amazon, Apple TV). BoxNation is also available in high definition on Sky (Ch. 490), at no extra cost to Sky TV subscribers, providing they are already HD enabled.

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Queens, New York (May 22, 2018)–Armin “The Bosnian Prince” Mrkanovic returned to the ring after an 11-month absence to win a win six-round unanimous decision over Nicholas Lavin in a cruiserweight bout that took place this past Friday night at Amazura Concert Hall in the Jamaica section of Mrkanovic’s hometown of Queens, New York.

Mrkanovic controlled the action, and won by shutout scores of 60-54 on all cards to up his record to 8-3.

The bout was the 1st ring appearance for Mrkanovic since his highly controversial defeat against Josh Himes that took place last June 24th in West Virginia.

In that bout, Mrkanovic should have been awarded the bout as he outboxed Himes, and even asked for a review of the fight by the UBF, but his requests fell on deaf ears, and now Mrkanovic is demanding a rematch for the UBF title.

“1st of all, it was good to come back and get a win. It its always special to perform in front of my hometown fans,” said Mrkanovic, whose focus quickly turned to Himes and the UBF.

“I demand a rematch with Himes. The UBF told me that they would make this happen, and to this point they have been silent. Everyone who saw the fight knows that I got screwed, so it is only right that we do this rematch. Himes knows what happened. He has not even fought since our fight. I am ready now, so hopefully the UBF and Himes do the right thing and make this happen.”

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com a big legal war is brewing between Top Rank of Sampson Boxing over the promotional rights to WBC Super Middleweight champion David Benavidez.

“We signed him. We want to give him big fights,” Top Rank’s Arum said. “But I don’t really want to talk about it right now because there’s going to be some litigation. [Lewkowicz] believes he’s still under contract and any further questions please contact our lawyers Dan Petrocelli and David Marroso.”

“Bob Arum, Top Rank, everyone involved in this will have a lawsuit,” Sampson Lewkowicz told ESPN. “People believe I am weak or they believe I am naive. But trust me — I am not naive and I am not weak. I never had a problem with Bob Arum before. We had a good relationship but no more. Arum is trying to steal the work I did. With David, I took him from nothing to world champion. But with money you can destroy any contract. It’s so unspeakable what Arum did. It’s a disgrace for an old man to do something like this. It’s savage. I hope he can sleep at night because what he did was totally wrong.

“We sent a cease and desist letter and now I have three lawyers working on the case, working on a lawsuit.”
“Arum is destroying a young man’s career,” Lewkowicz said. “This is a young man, 21 years old, who he refused to sign at the age of 18. After that I did all the work. I work so hard for this kid. I treat him like my son, like every fighter I have. I believe he made a mistake but I still have confidence he will come back home. I will wait for him. He will come back.”

“In April I sent (Benavidez) $50,000 for training expenses for the July 28 fight against Matt Korobov. He took the money and he never signed the bout contract,” Lewkowicz said. “But he cannot fight for Arum. I have a contract with him. It’s very simple. Arum gave him money to sign. I don’t know how much but it must be a lot of money because Bob Arum tried to buy me out for seven figures and I refused. I never accept. I worked so hard why should I give him the fighter?

“David Benavidez is 21, a young kid who doesn’t understand the consequences of signing two contacts with two promoters. He doesn’t understand the law.”

Jamie McDonnell’s title defense against Naoya Inoue will be streamed on ESPN+ this Friday morning, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

“In the short time since its launch [on April 12], ESPN+ is becoming a wonderful platform to see world-class global fighters at all different hours of the day,” Top Rank president Todd duBoef told ESPN. “Friday’s event is another step we are taking toward bringing compelling world-class boxing to the ESPN platforms.”

“I know McDonnell is a strong champion with his good height and good record,” said Inoue, who is 5-foot-5 to McDonnell’s 5-10. “I’d like to prepare well in order to win my third championship.”

“I am in better physical condition with no problem with the weight,” said Lopez, who will be fighting in Japan for the fourth time. “I have been frequently watching the video of my first fight with Ken Shiro. I’m sure that I can do things so much better in the rematch, capitalizing on the opportunity to defeat him in a clearer way.”

MULVANE, Kan. (May 21, 2018) — History was made this past Saturday night on the “SUPERBOX LIVE: High Stakes” pay-per-view card, when 2016 Olympic bronze medalist and local hero, Nico Hernandez, knocked out Hungarian challenger Szilveszter “The Silent Assassin” Kanalas in the opening round to capture the vacant International Boxing Association (IBA) Flyweight World Championship in only his fifth professional fight, at Kansas Star Arena in Mulvane, Kansas.

In the first world title fight ever held in Kansas, Hernandez (5-0, 4 KOs) overwhelmed Kanalas (14-7, 9 KOs), the former World Boxing Federation (WBF) super flyweight world champion, to become the youngest (22) IBA world champion ever, as well as setting the record for the fewest pro fights needied to become IBA world titlist.

SUPERBOX LIVE: High Stakes was launched as Super Channel’s new live boxing series, SUPERBOX LIVE, in association with KO Night Boxing LLC, and it aired live exclusively in Canada on Super Channel.

Integrated Sports Media distributed “SUPERBOX LIVE: High Stakes” in the United States on cable, satellite and digital pay-per-view as it was live-streamed worldwide on FITE.TV app and website (excluding Canada).

Hernandez was aggressive from the opening bell, pounding Kanalas’ head and body. A Hernandez left hook to the body really hurt Kanalas, who went down from a right that followed the vicious liver shot. Kanalas beat Hall of Fame Steve Smoger’s count, and it was only a matter of time before Hernandez would end the fight. It came soon, right after another body-and-head combination put the over-matched Hungarian on the mat for the second and final time.

“A lot of people underestimate my power,” Hernandez said after the fight. “I believe that once he felt my power, I don’t think he wanted it anymore. I felt like I took his heart away. I was patient, I wanted it to go a few rounds to see what he had, but I took his heart away. I can’t really be disappointed because I am a world champion now.”

“Nico was explosive Saturday night and he showed killer instinct,” promoter John Andersen commented. “He was going to box, but I think he smelled fear, and Nico got into Kanalas’ head. He sensed it and jumped on him.”

Before he left the ring, Hernandez took the microphone in the center of the ring and called out three-time Olympian and two-time Olympic bronze medalist, “Irish” Paddy Barnes (5-0, 1 KO), who was the favored to win a gold medal in the flyweight division at the 2016 Olympics. He was eliminated in the round of 16 and Hernandez took home the bronze medal. “There’s a bronze medalist from (Northern) Ireland, Paddy Barnes, and that’s who I’d really love to fight.”

“I think that’s a fight we should start a conversation about,” Andersen remarked. “It’s not line Barnes is 21 (he’s 31) and I don’t know of a lot of 30 or older flyweights. It makes a lot of sense and can be a big fight. They’re both Olympic bronze medalist, already fought in scheduled 10 and 12 round fights, and have belts. (Barnes is the WBO Intercontinental flyweight champ). Nico needs to step up in terms of competition, too. I think they should get in the ring and then we can see what happens.

“If they don’t want to make this fight right away, maybe we can build it up by putting them on the same card, and then fight next year. This fight makes a lot of sense for both fighters and Nico has already said he wants to fight Barnes.”

Hernandez joined reigning IBA world champions, light heavyweight Sergey Kovalev and junior middleweight Mark DeLuca, as well as past IBA world champions such as Hall of Famers Oscar de la Hoya, George Foreman, Roberto Duran and Arturo Gatti, in addition to stars Roy Jones, Jr., Bernard Hopkins, Shane Mosely, James Toney, Mikkel Kessler, Eric Morales, Diego Corrales, Jose Luis Castillo, Glen Johnson and Antonio Tarver.

2011 Russia Junior Championships gold medalist Andrey Afonin (6-0, 3 KOs) kept his undefeated record in tact when Pedro “El Reguilete” Rodriguez (23-4, 19 KOs), the Cuban native and former World Boxing Association (WBA) Fedalatin cruiserweight champion, was unable to answer the bell in the third round of the co-featured event.

Unbeaten Ukrainian heavyweight Oleksandr Teslenko (13-0, 11 KOs), promoted by DiBella Entertainment and fighting out of Toronto, stopped Terrance “Big Jim” Marbra (9-6, 7 KOs) in the second round.

Undefeated Washington featherweight Victor Morales, Jr. (9-0, 5 KOs) was too much for David Berna (15-4, 14 KOs), of Hungary, who complained of an elbow injury and lost by way of a second-round technical knockout, in the televised opener.

In the television swing bout, which was held prior to the main event, popular Wichita junior welterweight Jeff Strum (3-0, 2 KOs) kept the train rollin’ with a second-round knockout of Nigeria-native Archie Weah (2-11).

In the most competitive fight of the night, as well as the lone match that went the complete distance, St. Louis cruiserweight Leroy Jones (3-3, 2 KOs) won a four-round unanimous decision over Kansas City, KS favorite Chris Harris (2-3-2, 2 KOs).

Complete results below:

OFFICIAL RESULTS

MAIN EVENT – VACANT IBA FLYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
Nico Hernandez (5-0, 4 KOs), Wichita, KS
WTKO1 (2:52)
Szilveszter Kanalas (14-8, 9 KOs), Pecs, Hungary
(Hernandez won vacant IBA World flyweight title)

CO-FEATURE – HEAVYWEIGHTS
Andrey Afonin (6-0, 3 KOs), Kursky, Russia
WTKO2 (3:00)
Pedro Rodriguez (23-5, 19 KOs), Miami, FL by way of Cuba

HEAVYWEIGHTSs
Oleksandr Teslenko (13-0, 11 KOs), Toronto, Canada by way of Ukraine
WKO2 (0:30)
Terrance Marba (9-6, 7 KOs), Saint Petersburg, FL

CRUISERWEIGHTS
Leroy Jones (3-3, 2 KOs), Saint Louis, MO
WDEC4 (39-37, 39-37, 39-37)
Chris Harris (2-3-2, 2 KOs), Kansas City, KS

JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS
Jeff Strum (3-0, 2 KOs), Wichita, KS
WTKJO2 (2:56)
Archie Weah (2-11), Norcross, GA by way of Liberia

FEATHERWEIGHTS
Victor Morales, Jr. (9-0, 5 KOs), Vancouver, WA
WTKO2 (2:56)
David Berna (15-4, 14 KOs), Budapest, Hungary

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LAUREL, MARYLAND (MAY 21, 2018)–Welterweight Gerome Quigley will look to stay perfect when he takes on tough Raymond Serrano in a 10-round battle for the USBA and WBC United States titles on Saturday, June 16th at The Gardens Ice House in Laurel, Maryland.

The show is promoted by Jeter Promotions and GQ Promotions.

Quigley of Montgomery Village, Maryland has an unblemished mark of 18-0 with 16 knockouts, and is one of most underrated contenders in the world. He states that he will be ready for his toughest bout to date.

“I don’t know much about him other then he is tough and durable. This will be a good test for me, and I am stepping to the next level with this fight. Serrano is battled tested, so that should bring out the best in me,” said Quigley.

Despite having nearly a 90% knockout ratio, Quigley feels that he is more a of a boxer then a fight that is just looking for the knockout.

“I look at myself as a boxer-puncher. I am well balanced. When people see my record, they may look at me as just a puncher because of all of the knockouts, when the reality is that I am a boxer. I have more boxing ability then punching ability.”

This fight is a chance for Quigley to get on the map be mentioned with the top welterweights in the world.

“A win would get me in the mix and guarantee me a spot in the top-10 or top-15 of the WBC and IBF. It will put the world on notice about who I am as a fighter.”

Quigley has been plying his trade in the Beltway area (Quigley has fought in Germany 3 times) while slowly stepping up his competition level. Now he feels that he is ready to ascend on the national and world stages.

“I was staying low-key and build up my record and maybe sneak up on somebody. I was promoting my own fights. I saw this model that (show co-promoter) Tony Jeter used. He is an inspiration for what I have done. He promoted himself. He got ranked twice in the top-15 and got himself some major fights. I feel, especially with this win, I can do that.”

Even though the stakes are high for this bout, Quigley is fighting for more than just two belts and a world ranking.

“If all goes well, I can bring my Fiance and two kids here. They are living in Frankfurt, Germany, and I can bring them back here.”

Quigley was 68-5 as an amateur, and was a 2-time United States open champion, as well as a 2007 semifinalist at the National PAL Tournament.

A stacked undercard with a 6 undefeated fighters will see action.

Charlotte, NC (May 21, 2018) – Results from last Thursday night’s card at The Grady Cole Center in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Rosalinda Rodriguez (6-0, 2 KOs) captured the WIBA Bantamweight title with an 8th round stoppage over Ivana Coleman (1-10)

Santario Martin (4-3) won a six-round unanimous decision over Curtis Waller (1-6-1) in a light heavyweight bout. All three judges scored it 59-55

Andrew Stroud (4-0) won a six-round unanimous decision over Frank Gonzalez (3-1) in a super bantamweight bout. Scores were 58-55, 56-55 and 57-55

Willie Harvey (2-0-1, 2 KOs) won via 1st round stoppage at 1:53 over Mose Smith (0-3) in a heavyweoght.

Alexander Dedovets (5-1-2) won a six-round unanimous decision over over Alejandro Esquilin Santiago (0-3) in a heavyweight bout. All three judges scored it 60-54

Mathew Strode (25-6) won a six-round unanimous decision over Dennis Sharpe (17-26-4) in a middleweight bout. Scores were 60-54 twice and 59-55.

Francisco Vazquez Irizarry (3-0) won a four-round unanimous decision over Kevin Cooper (1-15) in a lightweight bout. All three judges 40-36

Tivan Young (1-0, 1 KO) won via 1st round TKO over Hakeem Atkinson (0-4) in a junior wlterweight bout. The time as 1:52.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania…. “Right idea, wrong fight”, those were the words of Dallas welterweight, Jonathan Steele who gained his 8th victory as a professional on WFC 87 at Meadows Racetrack and Casino. Steele, who entered the ring on Saturday with 9 fights under his belt squared off against the seasoned veteran, Steven Upsher, 25-5-1(6kos), who was attempting a comeback bid in front of his hometown crowd.

Steele dominated the fight from the opening bell, banging Upsher to the body, which ultimately led to the 31 fight veteran to quit in the 5th round of their scheduled 8 round bout.

“We took the fight on a two week notice. My initial fight on May 18th was canceled, and Upsher’s opponent pulled out at the last minute. I didn’t care what his record was, or who he fought. I knew he had never faced a guy like me before.” Steele added.

The 27-year old former United States Marine is managed by Dallas based boxing manager, Adrian Clark.

Tyson Fury will face Sefer Seferi over ten rounds in his highly-anticipated June 9 comeback fight, live on BT Sport.

The former WBA, WBO and IBF Heavyweight World Champion will end an exile of over two-and-a-half years when he fights at the Manchester Arena for the first time in his career.

‘Gypsy King’ Fury looks in incredible shape, having lost a remarkable seven stone since teaming up with new trainer Ben Davison.

Albania’s Seferi holds a record of 23 wins from 24 fights, with 21 of his wins coming by way of knockout. His sole career loss came against WBA Heavyweight World Champion Manuel Charr, when he was outpointed over ten rounds.

“I can’t wait to get in there and prove that I’m a better fighter than I’ve ever been,” said Fury. “I’m coming into the prime of my career now and I’ve never felt better. I’m fitter, stronger and faster than the Fury of 2015.

“We’re just three weeks away from what is going to be a huge night for the city of Manchester. I’m delighted to be fighting at the iconic Manchester Arena for the first time in my career and I’m promising the fans a special performance to thank them for their loyal support.”

“This is going to be a hard fight for Fury,” said Seferi. “I’m very disciplined and always ready to take on everyone and anyone. This will not be an easy night for him. I’m coming to Manchester to beat one of the boxing legends of the 21st century.

“He is tall and strong but he won’t be ready for the pressure that I will bring on June 9. Two-and-a-half years out of the ring is a long time and nobody knows if he is still the same fighter that dethroned Wladimir Klitschko. I am going to seize this opportunity with both hands.”

“Tyson is back, in fantastic shape and full of beans, ready to take the first step on the road back towards World domination once again,” said Frank Warren. “He needs comeback fights in order to shake off the ring rust after such a lengthy absence and I am sure the fans will once again enjoy the ride back to the top.

“Seferi is no push over, he’s gone the distance with a World class fighter in Manuel Charr. He has spent the majority of his career at Cruiserweight but so had Tony Bellew and David Haye before stepping up to the Heavyweight division.”

Also confirmed for ‘He’s Back’ is the Vacant WBC International Middleweight title fight between Oldham’s ‘Kid Dynamite’ Mark Heffron (19-0, 15 KO’s) and Andrew Robinson (21-3-1, 6 KO’s);

Liverpool’s James Metcalf (17-0, 9 KO’s) takes on Jorge Fortea (16-1-1, 5 KO’s) for the Vacant WBC International Super-Welterweight Championship;

A huge night of boxing in Manchester also sees local hero Terry Flanagan (33-0, 13 KO’s) bid to become a two-weight World Champion when he clashes with unbeaten American Maurice Hooker (23-0-3, 16 KO’s) for the Vacant WBO Super-Lightweight crown;

Ricky Hatton-trained Heavyweight prospect Nathan Gorman (12-0, 10 KO’s) collides with rival ‘Big Sexy’ Sean Turner (12-2, 8 KO’s) over ten rounds; unbeaten Middleweight prospects Troy Williamson (6-0, 4 KO’s) and Jack Flatley (11-0, 4 KO’s) rematch after their Senior ABA final in 2015 that Williamson won;

Zelfa Barrett, Jordan Thompson, Lyndon Arthur, Jack Massey and Jack McGann complete an unmissable card.

Tickets for ‘He’s Back’ are available purchase NOW via the Manchester Arena on www.manchester-arena.com and tel: 0844 847 8000.

Tickets for this unmissable event start from just £40.

WBC Light Heavyweight champion Adonis Stevenson retained his title with a majority draw with two-division champion at Air Canada Centre in Toronto, Canada.

Stevenson won most of the early rounds as Jack seemed to be feeling out the 40 year-old champion. Jack got rolling in the middle rounds as he was dividing up his shots between the head and head sanpping right hands. With the momentum seeming swung in his favor, Jack got hit with a body shot in round ten, that was the door opener for Stevenson to get back into the fight. Over the final three frames there was plenty of toe to toe action with not much separating the two combatants.

Jack took a card at 115-113 while two cards were even at 114-114.

Stevenson is 29-1-1. Jack is 22-1-3.

“I went to the body and saw that he was fatigued,” said Stevenson, who moves to 9-0-1 in world title fights. “I had to keep the pressure on him. He’s a slick fighter, a two-time world champion but I felt I won the fight.

“I used both hands. I touched him a lot with the right hand on the body and slowed him down. He tried to come and attack me. I feel like I won the fight but I’ll give him a rematch if he wants it.

“I thought I definitely won the fight,” said Jack, who drew for the fourth time in his career. “No judge had him winning. I have no idea why I can’t get a decision. It could be that they’re jealous of Floyd and don’t like him. I’m one of his top fighters. I can’t do anything about it. I’m not the judge. I have to respect their decision.

“Maybe I started the fight too slow. I gave away those rounds. He didn’t really hit me. I can’t do anything about it, let’s do a rematch in Las Vegas. I came to his backyard, it’s time he comes out to Vegas.”

Gary Russell, Jr. retained the WBC Featherweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Joseph Diaz at the MGM National Harbor in National Harbor, Maryland.

Russell used his jab and handspeed to keep the charging Diaz.  Diaz landed some nice punches early, but it was the ring generalship of Russell that was the difference of the fight.  The landed a similar amount of punches (199-192 in Russell’s favor), but Russell threw 500 more punches, and he won by scores of 117-111 twice and 115-113.

Russell, 125.5 lbs of Washington, DC is 29-1.  Diaz, 126 lbs of South El Monte, CA is 27-2.

“We train to survive those body shots,” said Russell Jr. “We put the work in every day in the ring. We consistently grind and push ourselves to be great and we push ourselves to the limit.

“I was disappointed in my performance because I wasn’t planning on going the distance. I hurt the right hand, but I still had to use it, because he could not get past my jab.”

“The game plan was to break him down with the body shots and start attacking him more in the later rounds,” said the South El Monte, Calif. native. “But I started attacking him too late and didn’t pick it up until the 8th or 9th round. Gary Russell Jr. is a tremendous fighter and he did a great job keeping me at bay.”

“This will just make me a hungrier fighter. I hope I got the respect of a lot of fight fans. I wanted to become champion against the best featherweight fighter in the world. Tonight wasn’t my night but I’m going to bounce back harder and I’ll be champion soon.”

Follow all the action as Adonis Stevenson defends the WBC Light Heavyweight title against Badou Jack.  The action begins around 11 PM ET / 8 PM PT

NO BROWSER REFRESH NEEDED.  THE PAGE WILL UPDATE AUTOMATICALLY 

Round 1: Stevenson lands a left

Round 2 Straight left from Stevenson..Left..Jack lands a jab..

Round 3 Jack lands a right to the body.  Another..Stevenson lands..Right from Jack..left from Stevenson..

Round 4 Right from Jack..right to body..Right to body..jab..Right..Left uppercut from Stevenson..

Round 5 Left hook from Jack..Right and left to body from Stevenson..Uppercut..Right uppercut from Jack..Right..Stevenson works on the inside

Round 6 Left to body from Stevenson..Lead uppercut and right hook..Counter right from Jack..Sweeping left from Stevenson..right to body..Straight left..Right uppercut from Jack..2 left hooks from Jack..Right from Stevenson

Round 7 Good right Jack..Counter right from Stevenson..Right from Jack..Good right

Round 8 Jab from Stevenson..Left..Jab from Jack..Jack warned for a low blow..Short left from Stevenson..Quick combination from Jack..right…left from Stevenson..2 rights from Jack

Round 9 Short right to body from Jack..Left from Stevenson..Left and right snaps Stevenson head back..Right from Jack

Round 10 Left hook from Jack..Right uppercut.Right..Stevenson lands a couple shots

Round 11 Stevenson lands a body shot..Left hook from Jack..right to body..Jack backpedaling..2 rights from Jack..Right hook from Stevenson..Right from Jack..Body shot..Left uppercut from Stevenson..Jab and combination from Jack..

Round 12 Good uppercut from Jack..Lead left from Stevenson..Uppercut on inside from Jack..Right hook from Stevenson..Jack lands a right to the body..Over hand right..

115-113 JACK; 114-114 TWICE —DRAW

Follow all the action as Gary Russell Jr. defends the WBC Featherweight title against Joseph Diaz, Jr in a battle of former U.S Olympians.  The action begins at 10:05 Et / 7:05 PT

NO BROWSER REFRESH NEEDED.  THE PAGE WILL UPDATE AUTOMATICALLY 

Round 1: Double jab from Russell..Jab to body..Diaz lands a left to body

Round 2 Right hook from Russell..Jab from Diaz…Good left..3 punch combination..Body shot from Russell..Left uppercut on inside…Diaz lands a right to the body Combination to the body..right to the head..Left to head..Left to body..left to jaw..Double left hand..body shot

Round 3 Left uppercut in inside from Russell..Counter left from Diaz..Lopping left from Russell..Counter left from Diaz….Body shot..Nice left..

Round 4 Combination from Diaz..Nice body shot and another..Right from Russell…Right to body from Diaz..Left to jaw from Russell..

Round 5 Jab from Russell..Left from Diaz..Good combination..Right to the body..Counter left..Good body shots and nice uppercut

Round 6 Combination from Russell..Left from Diaz..Right to the body..Nice combination..Left..Body work from Russell..Double right from Diaz..Double jab and over hand left…Counter right from Russell..Combination..

Round 7 Jab..from Russell..1-2…

Round 8 Left hook from Russell…Left to body..Nice left from Diaz..Jab from Russell..Left from Diaz..Double right from Diaz..

Round 9 Double jab from Russell

Round 10 Counter left from Diaz..Left to body..Double left hand..Ripping combination from Russell..Good counter from Diaz..

Round 11 Russell pot shotting..Body shots from Diaz..2 rights from Russell..body and head from Diaz..uppercuts exchanged on the inside..Left cross from Russell

Josh Warrington captured the IBF Featherweight title with a 12-round split decision over Lee Selby in Leeds, England.

Selby was cut around the left eye in round two from a clash of heads.  In round six, it was another accidental headbutt that caused a cut around the right eye of Selby. Warrington contentiously beat Selby to the punch ver the 1st nine rounds. Selby showed a champions heart as he fought through two cuts to make the fight close, but he came up on the wrong end of the cards which read 116-112 and 115-113 for Warrington and 115-113 for Selby.

Warrington is 27-0. Selby is 26-2.

“I can’t put into words how I feel. I got into the ring tonight with the expectation of the city on my shoulders,” said Warrington. “I outboxed the boxer tonight.

“I’m overcome with emotion. We worked on gameplans but that all went out of the window and it was sheer grit and determination and this crowd got me through tonight.”

Queens, N.Y. – Ronson Frank’s Uprising Promotions, in association with the New Mexican Promotions, returned to New York on Friday night, bringing a loaded roster of action fights to Club Amazura in Jamaica, Queens.

“It was an exciting night to be back in New York,” said Ronson Frank, President of Uprising Promotions. “We faced some challenges along the way, but we were still able to pull off a successful event. It is encouraging to see the audience enjoying the show as much as they did tonight, and we are looking forward to booking another date in the near future.”

Headlining the show was a bantamweight attraction between local favorite Elton Dharry (23-5-1, 14 KOs) and a very game Oscar Mojica (11-5, 1 KO) of Dallas, Texas. In an exceptional back-and-forth bout, Dharry used movement and attacked with volume when he found his openings, but Mojica stood strong in the pocket and was getting through with shots of his own throughout the contest.

The New York crowd was fully behind its native son, ready to erupt anytime Dharry started to mount his attack. Things did get interesting in the 5th round when Mojica unloaded a left hook that buckled Dharry, but he showed true grit to persevere from the shot and recovered by the latter part of the frame.

Over the second half of the fight, Dharry really started to turn up the volume and engaged a more focused attack on the body. One of his best moments came at the end of the 7th round when he had Mojica hurt in the corner, peppering him with a flurry as the bell rang to bring the frame to a close. The following round, Dharry found himself at a disadvantage when he was deducted a point for low blows, but the infraction only seemed to ignite him the rest of the way.

Both fighters continued to give and take in a back-and-forth manner over the final two frames, concluding the 10th round with the same action they were bringing since the opening bell. In the end, Dharry impressed the ringside judges to a unanimous decision win, earning tallies of 98-91, 96-93 and 95-94.

In the co-main event, Ariel Lopez (9-0, 6 KOs) and Rudolph Hedge (10-7-3, 4 KOs) put on another action bout, stepping into a phone booth in the first frame and staying there for the entirety of a six-round scrap in the bantamweight division. Both men refused to back down on the inside, and the fight was rarely outside of the range of each fighter. Lopez landed the crisper of the shots with the heavier volume, but Hedge also found openings to get through on punches of his own.

When the six frames had expired, Lopez remained undefeated after seeing his hand raised via scores of 60-54×2 and 59-55.

In a cruiserweight attraction, Armin Mrkanovic (8-3, 3 KOs) was able to outpoint Nicholas Lavin (5-9, 4 KOs) over six rounds. Mrkanovic did his best work when he was able to bully Lavin to the ropes and get off his shots, but the Connecticut native also handled himself well on exchanges throughout the bout. When all was said and done, Mrkanovic controlled the better of the action, with the judges awarding him a unanimous decision victory by flush counts of 60-54.

Washington, D.C. resident Marquis Moore (7-0, 4 KOs) was able to maintain his unblemished record on Friday night, but it was not without heavy resistance from Bronx veteran Troy Artis (5-8-1, 3 KOs). Making him earn it every step of the way, Artis used his length to cause problems for Moore, who showed head and body movement to find his opportunities. The two fighters continued to give and take over the six frames, with Moore delivering heavy numbers on his combinations to keep his opposition off rhythm. However, Artis was finding a home for his right hand and created a mouse under the left eye of Moore in the 4th round that kept things interesting. By the time the final frame had arrived, both fighters were banging it out on the inside, and the final bell rang with a roar of approval from the fans in attendance.

When the scorecards were read, Moore saw his perfect record remain intact with tallies of 59-55×3.

In the opening bout of the evening, Brooklyn welterweight Paul Anthony (1-0, 0 KOs) made his professional debut a successful one, dealing good body work and switching up his angles on Tyryen Hamilton (0-2, 0 KOs) in a four-round affair. Anthony walked down his opponent throughout the encounter and dealt him some crafty combinations, securing a shutout win from the ringside judges.

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

New York, NY (May 19, 2018)-Super Middleweight prospect Marquis Moore remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Troy Artis at The Amazura Concert Hall in the Jamaica section of Queens, New York.

Moore used quick combinations and focused on the body to control the action to cruise home with the victory, and he remained perfect at 7-0.

Moore is managed by Split-T Management.

“I got some good work in and I take my hat off to Troy Artis because he came to fight. I’m already looking forward to get back in the gym and get ready for my next fight,” said Moore.

Said Split-T Management CEO, David McWater, “When I first saw Marquis win the National Golden Gloves, I felt he would be a star in the pros because he has the style and power to become an attraction. He punches real hard , has a great work ethic, and he has a lot of natural ability you just can’t teach. With the help of his trainers Davarryl Williamson and Terry Buterbaugh, I know he will become a World Champion!”

ABOUT SPLIT-TMANAGEMENT

Headed by David McWater, Split-T Management has amassed one of the top stables in boxing.

Their impressive roster includes:

World Rated Contenders

IBF Super Lightweight Mandatory Title Challenger Ivan Baranchyk

Welterweight “The New” Ray Robinson

Former Bantamweight Title Challenger Antonio Nieves

2016 Olympians

Lightweight Teofimo Lopez

Junior Middleweight Charles Conwell

Bantamweight Antonio Vargas

Undefeated Prospects

Heavyweights: Stephen Shaw, Marcus Carter, Yegor Plevako

Cruiserweights: Joshua Temple, “Mighty” Joe Jones

Light Heavyweights: Joseph Williams, Bortirali Mamajonov

Super Middleweights: Isiah Steen, DeAndre Ware, Isiah Jones

Middleweights: Marquis Moore, Raquel Miller

Junior Middleweights: Ardreal Holmes, Hurshidbek Normatov, Fred Wilson, Jr.

Welterweight’s Janelson Bocachica, Poindexter Knight, Mark Dawson, Boubacar Sylla, Brian Ceballo

Junior Lightweight: Erick De Leon

Follow all the action as Lee Selby defends the IBF Featherweight title against Josh Warrington from Leeds, England.  The action kicks off at 5 PM ET / 2 PM ET / 10 PM in Great Britain

NO BROWSER REFRESH NEEDED.  THE PAGE WILL UPDATE AUTOMATICALLY

Round 1: Trading left hands..Right from Warrington

Round 2 Good jab from Selby..2 good rights from Warrington..Selby is cut over the left eye..Hard left and right from Warrington…Good left hook to body from Selby..Good right from Selby..Right and left bucked Warrington..Cut caused by accidental clash of heads.

Round 3 Straight right from Warrington..Right..Right and left uppercut from Selby..Left hook..Good right..Right

Round 4 Good left from Selby…Double left from Warrington…Sneaky right from Warrington..Good left lead..2 body shots…Good left hook..Right from Selby

Round 5 Jab from Warrington..Straight right from Selby..Left from Warrington..Solid right..Good left hook from Selby…1-2..Good left from Warrington

Round 6  Good right from Selby..Good right…Right from Warrington..Left and right to the head..Good right..Doctor checking on cut as Selby is now cut around his right eye..Great combination from Warrington..

Round 7 Good body shot from Selby..Good body shot from Warrington..3 punch combination from Selby..Jab from Warrington..Good left to body from Selby…

Round 8 Good jab from Warrington..Good right from Selby…Nice right..Good left hook and another..Good right from Warrington

Round 9 Good uppercut from Selby..Right to body from Warrington..Good right..Left hook..Nice left hook in close..Right hand..Good work inside..3 punch combination..

Round 10  Good right from Warrington…

Round 11 Jab and right over the top from Warrington…Good right at the bell

Round 12 Good right from Warrington..Good right from Selby…Right to head from Warrington..Good right..Good left from Selby..

115-113 FOR SELBY….116-112 WARRINGTON…115-113 WARRINGTON

MANILA–With the arrival of strength and conditioning coach Justine
Fortune Friday, Manny Pacquiao’s training shifted to higher gear as he
prepares for the all-important fight of his life opposite WBA champion
Lucas Matthysse on July 15.

Pacquiao, also the promoter of the mega-fight, dispelled rumors that
there might even be a possibility of a postponement of this battle
which he is treating with utmost concern and pride.

“We are shifting our training to higher gear now with less than two
months before the fight,” said Pacquiao, who like Matthysse, is deep
in training for their monumental clash at the posh Axiata Arena in
Kuala Lumpur.

Dubbed as “Fight of Champions,” the Pacquiao Vs Matthysse clash hopes
to equal, if not surpass the “Fight of a Lifetime” duel between
Mumammad Ali and Joe Bugner in Malaysia in 1975.

“That is malicious and untrue,” said Pacquiao, referring to published
reports that his inaugural promotional show under his MP Promotions
banner will be postponed. Calling the persons involved as “saboteurs,”
Pacquiao, the fighter, said he is very serious about winning this
fight as he knows that Matthysse is also hoping to retire him from
boxing.

“Ironically, I would like to thank these rumor-mongers for the extra
publicity that they are contributing to make this fight such a huge
success. I am turning this negative news into something good because
no news is actually bad news,” added Pacquiao.

Additionally, Matthysse’s Arano Box organization and Golden Boy
Promotions have concurred with Pacquiao.

“Given the wrong versions of the postponement of Pacquiao-Matthysse,
such as the news that we retweeted, Arano Box clarifies that the fight
has no problem and the date remains unchanged,” said Matthysse’s
manager Mario Arano on Tweeter, after Argentine TV network TyC Sports
reported that the fight was headed towards postponement. The news was
picked up by several other websites who are keenly keeping tabs of
everything that is related to the fight.

TyC Sports, the Spanish channel of Argentina, claimed that there were
disagreements between the promoters and the Kuala Lumpur organization,
a fact that doesn’t exist, according to Pacquiao.

Likewise, Havas Sports & Entertainment, a division of Havas Media Asia
Pacific, has been appointed as the International Media Rights and
Commercial Partner by fight promoters MP Promotions and Events for the
highly anticipated ‘Fight.’

The deal covers worldwide distribution across the Asia Pacific,
Europe, Latin America and Africa and includes media rights across all
platforms and devices including television, broadband, mobile, radio
and in-flight rights. All inquiries and expressions of commercial
interest should be sent to fight.champions@havasmedia.com.

The ex-pro and head honcho at the thriving St Joseph’s gym in Newport insists defending IBF champ Lee Selby is several rungs above Josh Warrington in terms of talent, ahead of Saturday’s salivating Featherweight world title fight at Leeds United’s Elland Road, shown live on BT Sport and BoxNation.

“When Lee’s dad brought him to me, to look after him as a pro 10 years ago, he was already possibly the best technical boxer at the gym. But he was a long way from the fittest.

Lee came from an area where kids hung around doing nothing, drinking lager. He told me he didn’t do circuits! He just wanted to punch the bag, spar his brother Andrew then go home. No hard graft.

Among my small squad, Lee came sixth or seventh in the ground work drills but he dug in deep and within nine months had pulled himself to the front of the pack. Now he can’t wait to get to the gym. He loves his training. It’s a fact that he’s not drunk alcohol since he had a bottle of lager to celebrate defending his Commonwealth title against an African in Newport six years ago. Now he celebrates his title wins eating cheesecake!

Believe me, Lee is anything but cocky. He’s pretty serious, very laid-back. However, in the changing room for an hour before he fights, he becomes very ‘edgy’, a bag of nerves, constantly repeating himself, doubting himself. Then when the call comes to fight, when the lights go on and the music starts, he completely changes. Suddenly, he’s in the ‘zone’, buzzing with confidence, a true gladiator. He just looks cocky!

And he’s going to thrive on walking out at Elland Road to all the hostility. He can’t wait. He loves attention. He always trains hard but if a stranger walks into our gym he instantly ups his game to impress.

I remember taking him to Belfast to defend his British and Commonwealth titles against Martin Lindsay. Martin was from the Falls Road and his fans were proper tough, hard guys; very intimidating at the press conference and weigh-in, and during Lee’s ring walk. But when Lee ducked between the ropes, he just winked at me and with this huge grin he says: ‘This is wicked!’ The Belfast boys booed him into the ring, whistled at him throughout the fight but gave him a big ovation afterwards.

Whereas I view Lee as an elite world class fighter, Josh Warrington is just a very good British level kid. I see Josh’s strengths – his fitness and determination – proving his downfall against Selby. He’ll keep coming. For the first four or five rounds, Lee will use his height and reach, capitalise on his excellent jab and start to mark Warrington up. He’ll then aim at those targets. By the time Warrington gets close, when we allow him to get close, he’ll be very sorry he got there!

Lee has fought these super-fit, strong men types many times before and seen them all off. Stephen Smith fell in eight, Corey McConnell wilted in round five, Evgeny Gradovich round eight, Joel Brunker stopped in nine…All viewed Selby as a tall, skinny boxer-type but he can be a spiteful, nasty b*stard. Latterly, he’s not needed to engage in hard wars because he wants a long career so he can unify all the titles. But if Josh Warrington’s team think he can’t dig deep and hasn’t got gears, they’ll be painfully mistaken.

If the fight ‘kicks off’ from the start, it’ll be to Lee’s advantage, not Josh’s. Selby’s very sharp and very accurate. Warrington’s dad works his corner and he’ll not want to watch his son take a hiding.

Lee wins because he’s super strong and extremely naturally gifted. He’s got the speed, accuracy and movement to sting Warrington twice then move round the corner while Warrington flaps at fresh air. We’ll make him miss, make him pay…..painfully!”

General admission tickets for Selby v Warrington are available from just £40 per person.

Tickets are available to purchase online via the club’s official website www.leedsunited.com and via the Leeds United Ticket Office on 0371 334 1992
‘When we go through the gears, Selby won’t be able to go with us.’

Father-trainer Sean recalls his Yorkshire terrier’s unimpeded rise to tonight’s stadium IBF title fight in Leeds and reveals why the Tyke’s are so confident they’ll emerge triumphant.

“People often ask if it’s emotionally difficult to coach my own flesh and blood in this hard game but we’re from a tough council estate in Leeds where people clobber one another at school and on the streets on a daily basis. I’d much rather see Josh whacked with leather gloves in a ring, than with a cricket bat on the pavement!

People seriously underestimate Josh’s toughness because of his laidback manner. Selby’s side started this Twitter war and it started to get a bit personal so Josh had a pop back. But by nature, he’s soft as owt; a real humble, relaxed kid who goes out of his way for everybody, hence his popularity.

Josh doesn’t know how to be nasty and, you know what, neither does Lee Selby. They’re just two decent kids who desperately want to win a world title fight on Saturday. At the end of the day, its just 36 minutes boxing and, whichever way it goes, I hope both come home safe.

I personally like Lee Selby. He’s an ordinary guy like we are and a very, very good fighter. I’m a fan of boxing at every level, not just my own son, so you have to admire Selby’s class. We’ll be mindful of his ability to control the pace, his accuracy and his movement. He’s good all round but I don’t think his recent opposition has been brilliant. He’s had an easy ride as world champion.

I don’t really buy into these ‘Selby has fought in better class’ or ‘Selby hits harder’ lines. Josh has stopped six of his last 11 at title level, Lee has stopped just three of his last 11 and I believe Josh has faced more ‘live’ opposition. The Selbys have been riding off the back of that stoppage win over Stephen Smith for way too long. It was almost seven years ago and we know of reasons why Smith wasn’t himself that night.

Home advantage is a bonus. In Leeds we always turn out and back our own. Josh finally gets his opportunity at his beloved Leeds United with his favourite players, past and present, willing him on from ringside, and his favourite band, Kaiser Chiefs, playing a set to rouse the crowd. For Josh, it symbolises that he’s arrived. It’s going to be a very, very special night.

Several mention that Josh might get carried away with the emotion of it all but that won’t be the case. The First Direct Arena was built for acoustics so the noise outdoors won’t be any more mental than when we’ve fought there. He coped then.

Josh has worked so hard that he fully deserves to enjoy his ring walk and savour the atmosphere. But as challenger, he enters first. The other mob are sure to keep us waiting in the ring as long as possible so that’ll give us time to restore a bit of control and respect. The crowd does get him emotional but, once the bell sounds, his concentration is very good.

Lee’s held his belt so long now, and had such an easy ride of late, I believe that mentally he’s become lax. Complacent. He says all his challengers were ‘easy work’ when, clearly, they weren’t. (Fernando) Montiel enjoyed some massive successes against him and he was a 36 year old ex flyweight!

They’re a complete contrast of styles. Obviously, I’ll not reveal our plan but Selby claims there’s no way we can outbox him. Wait and see!

Josh is so determined. He simply won’t allow himself to get beat but the main reason I’m so confident is because Josh is a natural featherweight whereas Lee is a natural super-feather who trains doing 20-minute rounds in a sweat suit.

While we can focus solely on strategy and improving technique in camp, Selby will have a real struggle just to make weight. Consequently, he’ll not have the reserves we’ll have. We believe that when we go up through the gears, Selby won’t be able to go with us.

I genuinely think that Josh could stop him. Lee can be caught cold, early. Eric Hunter put him on his arse but Hunter’s a lazy fighter and failed to capitalise. Josh won’t have to save any fuel for the later rounds. He’s got phenomenal natural stamina. If he tags Selby, he’ll be over him like a rash.

Lee’s not an aggressive fighter but, at some stage, he’ll have to dig in and he’s never had to scrap a ‘live’ opponent like Josh Warrington. We’ll systematically close him down. Put a tenner on Warrington, rounds nine and ten!”

Very limited General Admission tickets for Selby v Warrington are available from just £40 per person.

Tickets are available to purchase online via the club’s official website www.leedsunited.com and via the Leeds United Ticket Office on 0371 334 1992

Watch LIVE on BT Sport and BoxNation from 7.30pm

MULVANE, Kan. (May 18, 2018) – The official weigh in was held today for tomorrow night’s “SUPERBOX LIVE: High Stakes” pro boxing card, featuring the first world title fight in Kansas boxing history, to air live from Kansas Star Arena on Super Channel in Canada, pay-per-view in the United States, and live-streamed worldwide on Fite.tv.

(L-R) – Nico Hernandez, promoter John Andersen and Szilveszter Kanalas

Main Event – Vacant IBA Flyweight World Championship (12 rounds) – PPV
Nico Hernandez (4-0, 3 KOs), Wichita, KS 112 lbs.
Szilveszter Kanalas (14-7, 9 KOs), Pecs, Hungary 110.8 lbs.

Co-Feature – Heavyweight (8 rounds) – PPV
Andrey Afonin (5-0, 2 KOs), Kursky, Russia 225.4 lbs.
Pedro Rodriguez (23-4, 19 KOs), Miami, FL by way of Cuba 245.8 lbs.

Heavyweights (8 rounds) – PPV
Oleksandr Teslenko (12-0, 10 KOs), Toronto, Canada by way of Ukraine 216.8 lbs.
Terrance Marba (9-5, 7 KOs), Saint Petersburg, FL 214.4 lbs.

Featherweights (8 rounds) — PPV
Victor Morales, Jr. (8-0, 4 KOs), Vancouver, WA 125.8 lbs.
David Berna (15-3, 14 KOs), Budapest, Hungary 127 lbs.

Junior Welterweights (4 rounds)
Jeff Sturm (2-0, 1 KO), Wichita, KS 139.8 lbs.
Archie Weah (2-10), Norcross, GA by way of Liberia 142 lbs.

Cruiserweights (4 rounds)
Chris Harris (2-2-2, 2 KOs), Kansas City, KS 184.6 lbs.
Leroy Jones (2-3, 2 KOs), Saint Louis, MO 183.6 lbs.

(All fights & fighters are subject to change)

WHAT: “SUPERBOX LIVE: KO Night Boxing / High Stakes”
WHEN: Saturday, May 19, 2018

WHERE: Kansas Star Arena

PROMOTER: KO Night Boxing LLC

TELEVISION:Super Channel’s new live boxing series, SUPERBOX LIVE, in association with KO Night Boxing LLC, will air live exclusively in Canada on Super Channel.

Integrated Sports Media will distribute “SUPERBOX LIVE: High Stakes” in the United States on cable, satellite and digital pay-per-view via iN Demand, Vubiquity, DIRECTV, DISH and live-streamed worldwide on FITE.TV app and website (excluding Canada) for a suggested retail price of only $19.95.

BROADCASTERS: Sean Wheelock & Corey Erdman

RING ANNOUNCER: David Diamante

DOORS OPEN: 6:00 p.m. CT

FIRST BOUT: 7:00 p.m. CT

FIRST TV BOUT: 9:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. PT

TICKETS: Tickets are priced at $120.00 (VIP), $80.00, $50.00 and $30.00 (prices do not include service fees) and available to purchase online at www.ticketmaster.com, Kansas Star Casino and .. Tickets are priced at $120.00 (VIP), $80.00, $50.00 and $30.00 (prices do not include service fees) and available to purchase online at www.ticketmaster.com, Kansas Star Casino and US Logo, Inc. (520 N. West St., Wichita / 316.264.1321).

OTHER: To watch “SUPERBOX LIVE: High Stakes” live in Canada, showcasing undefeated Canadian heavyweight Teslenko, in addition to more exciting boxing to come in 2018, fight fans can contact their local cable provider to subscribe to Super Channel and all that it offers, including premium series, movies and much more, for as low as $9.95 per month.

Venum (www.venum.com) has been named the official gloves and apparel of SUPERBOX LIVE.

INFORMATION:

www.konightboxing.com, www.internationalboxingassociation.com

Twitter: @NicoMHernandez, @KONightBoxing, @SCSportsTV, Kansas_Star, @KansasStarArena, @IntegratedPPV, @Fitetv, @NeonStarSE, @DiBellaEnt, @LouDiBella,