A star is born! Undefeated Bader “ The Master” Samreen Stops Jose Paez Gonzales in 5th round

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (September 10, 2023) –Rising Jordanian lightweight Bader “The Master” Samreen (9-0, 8 KOs) made a loud statement in last night’s main event against veteran Jose “Cuate” Paez Gonzales (16-3-2, 12 KOs) in the inaugural event in the Rising Stars Arabia (RSA) series, the first of its kind in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

The milestone event, sanctioned by the Middle East Professional Boxing Commission,

was promoted by AAM Seddiqi Sports and sponsored by the Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi).

The first professional boxer from Jordan, Samreen was a solid amateur boxer, highlighted by his bronze medal at the prestigious 2018 AIBA Youth World Championships, but he moved his base to Dubai when he turned pro because Jordan didn’t have proper boxing facilities for professionals.

The 23-year-old Samreen took full advantage of the opportunity to fight in the main event on a card, when Moussa Gholam suffered an injury during training camp that prevented him from headlining the RSA card that was streamed live on DAZN from Abu Dhabi’s Mubadala Arena.  

Samreen won the first four rounds versus Gonzales, who had lost only once in his previous 13 fights, whenl he closed the show with a technical knockout midway through round five.

In the co-featured event, local favorite Sultan Al Nuaimi (10-0, 6 KOs) made the most of his first 10-round bout, taking a convincing 10-round decision from super flyweight Jemsi Kibazange (19-4, 5 KOs). Al Nuaimi overcame an opening-round knockdown, closing the show by taking control in the final four rounds.

The beat continued for undefeated cruiserweight Mohammed “The Destroyer” Bekhash (26-0, 23 KOs), who lived up to his nickname, extending his win streak to 26 with his 23rd knockout against Musa “Hitman” Ntege (8-5, 6 KOs). A native of Syria who fights out of Germany, Bekhash won his 14th straight fight by stoppage.

Undefeated Jordanian Bishara Sabbar (7-0, 4 KOs) captured the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) Youth Silver World super featherweight title with an impressive eight-round unanimous decision over dangerous Mohd Azahar (8-6-1, 7 KOs).

The local boxing commission overruled an apparent first -round stoppage of welterweight Sheldon Schultz (pro debut) by Egyptian Olympian Marwan Mohamad Madboly (2-0, 1 KO) near the end of round one. Madboly dropped Schultz but the commission declared the outcome a no contest, because Madboly unintentiallyunintentionally punched Schultz when he was down on the canvas. 

Another Egyptian Olympian, Yousef Karrar (2-0, 1 KO), registered his first knockout as a professional boxer, when heavyweight Muhammad Muzeei (0-1) was unable to continue after two rounds.

Iranian welterweight Benyamin Moradzadeh (1-0) turned in an auspicious pro debut, taking a dominant six-round unanimous decision from previously unbeaten Rohit Choudhary (4-1-2, 0 KOs).

Yousuf Ali (3-0, 0 KOs), of Bahrain, defeated featherweight Semugenyi Alex (0-2) by way of a four-round unanimous decision.

UAB middleweight Fahad Al Koori (2-0, 2 KOs) opened the show with a technical knockout win over Ibrahime Junior Lubege (0-2) midway through the opening round.

Complete results below:

_______________________________________________________________________ 

OFFICIAL RESULTS

MAIN EVENT – LIGHTWEIGHTS

Bader Samreen (9-0, 8 KOs), Jordan

WTKO5 (1:37)

Jose Paez Gonzales (16-3-2, 12 KOs), México

CO-FEATURE – SUPER FLYWEIGHTS

Sultan Al Nuaimi (10-0, 6 KOs), United Arab Emirates

WDEC10 96-93, 96-93, 96-93)

Jemsi Kibzzange (18-4, 5 KOs), Tanzania

WBC YOUTH SILVER WORLD SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Bishara Sabbar (7-0, 4 KOs), Jordan

WDEC8 (79-73, 79-73, 78-74)

Mohd Zaahar (8-6-1, 7 KOs), India

(Sabbar won the WBC Youth Silver World title)

HEAVYWEIGHTS

Yousef Karrar (2-0, 1 KO), Egypt

WTKO2 (3:00)

Muhammad Muzeei (0-1), Uganda

CRUISERWEIGHTS

Mohammad Bekdash (26-0, 23 KOs), Germany by way of Syria

WTKO1 (1:38)

Musa Ntege (8-5, 6 KOs), Uganda

MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Fahad Al Koori (2-0, 2 KOs), United Arab Emirates

WTKO1 (1:54)

Ibrahime Junior Lubege (0-2), Uganda

WELTERWEIGHTS

Marwan Mohamad Madboly (2-0, 1 KO, 1 NC), Egypt

No Contest

Sheldon Schultz (4-4, 4 KOs, 1 NC), South Africa

Benyamin Moradzadeh (1-0, 0 KOs), Iran

WDEC6 (50-54, 60-54, 59-55)

Rohit Choudhary (4-1-2, 0 KOs), India

FEATHERWEIGHTS

Yousuf Ali (3-0, 0 KOs), Bahrain

WDEC4 (40-36, 40-36, 39-37)

Semugenyi Junior Libege (0-2), Uganda

 _______________________________________________________________________

-END-

About Rising Stars Arabia

Presenting Rising Stars Arabia (RSA) – a fighting series promoted by AAM Seddiqi Sports and powered by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi). This marks a notable debut within the UAE and the wider MENA region. This platform, humble in its intentions yet ambitious in its scope, provides aspiring Arab athletes with a unique opportunity to showcase their talents before regional and international audiences.

This significant initiative, grounded in the values of nurturing homegrown and regional talent, represents an important leap towards evolving professional boxing within the region. By doing so, it empowers an emerging generation of athletes with genuine opportunities right at their doorstep – eliminating the need to seek participation abroad.

About the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) drives the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture and tourism sectors, fuelling economic progress and helping to achieve Abu Dhabi’s wider global ambitions. By working in partnership with the organisations that define the emirate’s position as a leading international destination, DCT Abu Dhabi strives to unite the ecosystem around a shared vision of the emirate’s potential, coordinate effort and investment, deliver innovative solutions, and use the best tools, policies, and systems to support the culture, creative and tourism industries.

DCT Abu Dhabi’s vision is defined by the emirate’s people, heritage, and landscape. We work to enhance Abu Dhabi’s status as a place of authenticity, innovation, and unparalleled experiences, represented by its living traditions of hospitality, pioneering initiatives, and creative thought.




WEIGHTS FROM LONG BEACH RIGOBERTO HERMOSILLO vs. ALEXIS DE LUNA

Rigoberto Hermosillo 127.8 vs Alexis De Luna 127.9

Emiliano Moreno 143.9 vs Levy Garcia Benitez 144.5

Juan Sanchez 146.9 vs Roberto Patron 144.7

Kevin Salgado 146.2 vs Osvaldo Negrete 142.9

Nelson Oliva 161.9 vs Selim Martinez 161.6

Tayden Beltran 136 vs Francisco Duque 135.5

Sean Brewer 122.8 vs Deiniel Santiago Alegre 122.6

“New Blood” takes place at Infinite Reality Studios, formerly know as Thunder Studios in Long Beach, California, on Saturday, September 9, 2023. The venue is located at 20434 S Santa Fe Ave, Long Beach, CA 90810, easily accessible from the 405, the 710 and 91 freeways, just a few miles from the Dignity Health Sports Park, formerly know as the StubHub Center.

“New Blood” will broadcast live on FOX Deportes, and air on tape delay on Estrella TV and beIN SPORTS, reaching a combined total of 98-million homes in the United States. “New Blood” will also livestream the entire card on www.FightStars.Network?. Doors open at 4:30 pm PT with the first fight starting at 5:30 pm PT. Televised fights start at 8:00 pm PT. Tickets priced $60 – $150 (Plus applicable fees), are available for purchase by calling 800-283-8699 or online at www.cbnpromotions.com.

This event is sponsored by, Bud Light, HUSTLER Casino, LA’s only luxury Casino, Shoe Palace and Tequilla Mandala, 100% Agave Azul




Mbilli Stops Nicholson in 4

Top-rated super middleweight Christian Mbilli stopped Demond Nicholson in round four of a scheduled 10-round super middleweight bout at Hotel Lec Lemay in Gatineau, Quebec, Canada.

In round one, Mbilli dropped Nicholson with a hard right hand. In round two, Mbilli dropped Nicholson with a right that was high on the head. In round four, Mbilli landed a vicious left that dropped Nicholson in the corner and the fight was stopped at 1:56.

Mbilli, 167.1 lbs of Montreal is 25-0 with 21 knockouts. Nicholson, 167.7 lbs of Laurel, MD is 26-6-1.

Steve Claggett scored three knockdowns en-route to a 10-round unanimous decision over Carlos Sanchez in a junior welterweight bout.

In round four, Claggett scored a knockdown as he landed a left to the body.

In round six, it was a head shot that put Sanchez on the canvas. In round seven, Claggett continued he beating and dropped Sanchez again with a body shot.

Claggett, 139.7 lbs from Calgary, ALB, CAN won by scores of 98-89 and 99-88 twice and is now 36-7-2. Sanchez, 139 lbs of Baja, CA, MEX is 24-2.

Alexandre Gaumont won an eight-round unanimous decision over Ulices Tovar in a middleweight bout.

In round four, Tovar was bleeding under his left eye.

Gaumont, 159.1 lbs of Buckingham, QUE won by scores of 79-73 on all cards and is now 9-0. Rivera, 157.9 lbs of Guanjanto, MEX loses for the first time and is now 8-1.

Vanessa Lepage Joanisse won a six-round unanimous decision over Timea Nagy in a cruiserweight bout.

In round four, Joanisse landed a combination to that put Nagy on the canvas for a knockdown.

Joanissem 178.7 lbs of St. Abelein, QUE won by scores of 60-53 on all cards and is now 6-1. Nagy, 178.2 lbs of Hungary is 3-2.

Harley David O’Reilly won a four-round unanimous decision over Ismael Nava Lopez in a light heavyweight bout.

O’Reilly, 177.2 lbs of Gatineau, QUE won by 40-36 on all cards and is 2-0. Lopez, 178.4 lbs of Durango, MEX is 3-3.

Mehmet Unal won an six-round unanimous decision over Hernan David Perez.

Unal, 177.8 lbs of Montreal won by scores of 60-54 twice and 59-55 and is now 5-0. Perez, 175.4 lbs of Buenos Aries, ARG is 9-9.

Jhon Orobio stopped Luis Godinez in the opening round of their four-round lightweight bout.

In round one, Orobio dropped Godinez with a left hook to the body. He got up, but the fight was stopped at 3:00.

Orobio, 134.9 lbs of Montreal is 4-0 with four knockouts. Godinez, 135.6 lbs of Mexico City is 4-3-2.

Luis Santana stopped Sergio Palafox in round two of their six-round junior welterweight bout.

In round two, Santana landed a left to the body that was followed up by two hard rights that put Fox on the canvas. Santana continued to land flush punches and the bout was stopped at 2:29

Santana, 138 lbs of Montreal is 10-0 with four knockouts. Palafox, 143.1 lbs of Mexico is 9-4.

Christopher Guerrero remained undefeated with a third round stoppage over Vesselin Markov in a scheduled six-round welterweight bout.

In round three, Guerrero landed a left hook to the body that froze Markov. Guerrero landed another right to a wounded Markov and he took a knee and could not get up at 3:00.

Guerrero, 149.4 lbs of Montreal is now 8-0 with four knockouts. Markov, 149.5 lbs of Sofia, BUL 7-1-1.

Moreno Fendero made a successful pro debut with a four-round unanimous decision over Uziel Bueno in a super middleweight bout.

In round three, Fundero dropped Bueno with a right hook.

Fendero, 164 1/2 lbs of France won by scores of 40-35 on all cards and is 1-0. Bueno, 162 3/4 lbs is 3-3.

Devin Tomko (9-2, 4 KOs) stopped Juan Santiago (6-8-1). Santiago was taken to the hospital.




Undefeated Joseph Hicks Jr. in Action TONIGHT in Detroit

NEW YORK (September 8, 2023) – TONIGHT at the Motor City Casino, undefeated middleweight Joseph Hicks Jr. will be in action against Gilberto Pereira dos Santos.

The six-round bout will feature Hicks, 8-0 with five knockouts fighting near his Grand Rapids home.

The 29 year-old Hicks has wins over Bilal Quintyne (4-0) as well as his last outing when he took a six-round unanimous decision over Ramses Agaton on July 15th in Detroit.

dos Santos of Brazil is 16-13 with 12 knockouts. The veteran has wins over Benito Pascual Dominguez (10-0), Davi Elasquevici (13-0), Luis Carlos de Almeida Castro (5-1) and John David Martinez (11-1).

Hicks is promoted by Salita Promotions.




Curiel Stops Pennington in Final Seconds

Raul Curiel remained undefeated by stopping Courtney Pennington in the final round of their 10-round welterweight bout at The Fantasy Springs Casino Resort in Indio, California.

Curiel won just about all of the rounds and landed a flurry in the corner that did not seem to have Pennington in that much trouble, but the referee stopped the bout at 2:53.

Curiel. 147 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is 13-0 with 11 knockouts. Pennington, 146 lbs of Brooklyn, NY is 17-7-3.

“He is truly a warrior with tremendous experience. I threw everything at my disposal, and he took it all,” said Raul Curiel. “I took my time in the ring and we got the victory we trained hard for. This fight helped shake off some of the cobwebs after not being inside the ring for more than half a year, so I am proud of the work I did in there and learned a lot.”

Manny Flores stopped Jerson Ortiz in round two of a scheduled 10-round super bantamweight bout.

In round one, Flores dropped Ortiz with an uppercut. Later in the round it was a little right hook on the inside. In round two, Flores was aggressive and landed a big flurry that was finished off with a left hand that put Ortiz down for a third and final time at 50 seconds.

Flores, 120 lbs of Coachella, CA is 16-1 with 12 knockouts. Ortiz, 119.8 lbs of Managua, NIC is 17-8.

“I showed everyone the REAL ‘Gucci Manny’ tonight. This is the real me,” said Manuel Flores. “I showed that when I’m disciplined and work hard no one can beat me. We put in the miles and the rounds in for this fight. I expected my opponent to come forward a little more, but I’m glad we got the win.”

Grant Flores remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Jaleik Bogle in a super welterweight bout.

In round five, Flores sent Bogle down with a right hand.

Flores landed 140 of 339 punches. Bogles was 48 of 220.

Flores, 151 lbs of Coachella, CA won by scores of 60-53 on all cards is now 3-0. Bogle, 151 lbs of Tampa, FL is 4-2-2.

Daniel Luna remained undefeated with a second round stoppage over Alexander Gutierrez in a scheduled four-round lightweight bout.

In round two, Luna dropped Gutierrez with a left to the body. Gutierrez tried to get up but went back to his knee and the fight was over at 1:53.

Luna, 134 lbs of Victorville, CA is 3-0 with three knockouts. Gutierrez, 129.8 lbs of Lake Elsinore, CA is 0-3.

Jorge Chavez remained undefeated with a third-round stoppage of veteran Marvin Solano in a scheduled six-round featherweight bout.

In the final seconds of round three, Chavez hurt Solano with a left hook and sent him down with a chopping right hand. Solano did not beat the count at 2:59.

Chavez, 123.8 lbs of San Diego is 8-0 with six knockouts. Solano, 122.2 lbs of Managua, NIC is 24-11.




LIVE BOXING: GOLDEN BOY FIGHT NIGHT | RAUL ” EL CUGAR” CURIEL vs. COURTNEY “BKNY” PENNINGTON




DE LUNA, MORENO, BENITEZ, SANCHEZ AND PATRON TRAINING CAMP NOTES

LONG BEACH, CA (September 7, 2023) – Alexis De Luna (10-1, 5 KOs) from Bakersfield, CA, is ready to go to war with Rigoberto Hermosillo (13-4-1, 9 KOs), from Los Angeles, CA in the main event of Camponovo Sports “New Blood” 

boxing series. The 8-round bout will take place at Infinite Reality Studios, formerly know as Thunder Studios in Long Beach, California, on Saturday, September 9, 2023.

The venue is located at 20434 S Santa Fe Ave, Long Beach, CA 90810, easily accessible from the 405, the 710 and 91 freeways, just a few miles from the Dignity Health Sports Park, formerly know as the StubHub Center.

In the 8-round co-main event, Long Beach’s undefeated super lightweight, Emiliano Moreno (6-0, 4 KOs), will face off against Guadalajara, Mexico’s Levy Garcia Benitez (3-0-1, 2 KOs). In the opening televised bout scheduled for 6-rounds in the welterweight division, Juan Sanchez (6-0, 5 KOs) from Buena Park, CA, will battle Roberto Patron (2-0, 1 KO) from Turlock, CA.

“New Blood” will broadcast live on FOX Deportes, and air on tape delay on Estrella TV and beIN SPORTS, reaching a combined total of 98-million homes in the United States. Doors open at 4:30 pm PT with the first fight starting at 5:30 pm PT. Televised fights start at 7:00 pm PT. Tickets priced $60 – $150 (Plus applicable fees), are available for purchase by calling 800-283-8699 or online at  www.cbnpromotions.com.

Here is what De Luna, Moreno, Benitez, Sanchez and Patron had to say about their recent training camps, their upcoming matchups, fighting on FOX Deportes, and more.

Alexis De Luna – “I can’t wait to showcase my skills live on FOX Deportes. I know it’s going to be a tough fight with Hermosillo but I’m ready to go to war. When I lost my last fight by majority decision I was very disappointed with myself. I’m ready to get back in the winning column with a dominant performance, leaving no doubt in the judges’ eyes. Everyone can expect to see me bring the fight to Hermosillo. I’m coming to win and I’m going to take full advantage of fighting on the national stage on FOX Deportes.”

Emiliano Moreno – “At 18-years old I feel I have everything in place to make a name for myself in the world of boxing. Everyone knows I work extremely hard in the gym, and this camp has been no different. I’m on a mission to showcase my talent on FOX Deportes in front of my hometown fans of Long Beach. I understand that facing Benitez will be a difficult battle, but I’m prepared for anything he will bring to the ring. I’m entering this fight with a winning mindset and everyone tuning in will see a true warrior.”

Levy Garcia Benitez – “I’m ready to shine on FOX Deportes, and facing Moreno in his hometown is something I’m looking forward to too. My training camp has been nothing short of exceptional, and I’m ready to showcase the results of my hard work in the ring. This is my opportunity to make a statement, and I plan to exploit Moreno’s weaknesses with a performance that leaves no doubt about who’s the better fighter. I’m fighting for my people back home in Tlaquepaque, Jalisco, Mexico.”

Juan Sanchez – “I’ve had an incredible training camp to get ready for my fight with Roberto Patron, and I’m really excited about the opportunity to showcase my skills on national television on FOX Deportes. I know he’s undefeated and will fight to remain unbeaten but the hard work and dedication I’ve put into this camp will undoubtedly pay off in the ring. I will look to end this fight by knockout, and I can’t wait to step into the spotlight and give fans a memorable fight. This is my moment to shine, and I plan to make the most of it.”

Roberto Patron – ” Training camp went well as I put in the work necessary to be in the best shape of my life. I’m ready to bring my A-game and show the world what I’m capable of. Facing an undefeated fighter like Juan Sanchez is not going to be easy but it’s precisely the kind of challenge I’ve been working towards my entire career. I’m ready to put on a great show for all the fans as I plan to capitalize on this opportunity to step onto the national stage on FOX Deportes.m This is a pivotal moment in my career, and I’m excited to seize it.”

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JESUS RAMOS JR. UPPING TRAINING CAMP INTENSITY AHEAD OF PIVOTAL CLASH AGAINST ERICKSON LUBIN

CASA GRANDE, AZ. – September 7, 2023 – Undefeated super welterweight sensation Jesus “Mono” Ramos Jr. discussed the increased intensity in his training camp and much more as he looks to earn a world title shot with a victory over top contender Erickson “Hammer” Lubin on Saturday, September 30 in the SHOWTIME PPV co-main event from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Canelo Promotions will present the Premier Boxing Champions Pay-Per-View.

“This camp has been more intense than my previous camps,” said Ramos (20-0, 16 KOs), who is trained by his father Jesus Ramos Sr. at the Ramos Boxing Academy in Casa Grande, AZ. “My strength and conditioning coach Jamie Belt has really stepped it up. We’re going through it and I feel like I’m in the best shape of my life right now. That’s what we have to do to be better each time we step into the ring.”

The 22-year-old had previously been slated to compete on the July 30 Spence vs. Crawford SHOWTIME PPV undercard, but was forced to withdraw due to a hand injury that Ramos says has since healed.

“I’m feeling good, I just needed to let my hand heal,” said Ramos. “I’ve been sparring and everything has been going great. I’ve had no pain whatsoever and I’m happy about it.”

Ramos most recently dominated the previously unbeaten Joey Spencer in March, stopping the fellow rising 154-pound contender in round seven. With wins already against Interim WBC Super Welterweight Champion Brian Mendoza and veteran contenders Vladimir Hernandez and Luke Santamaria, Ramos believes that a statement victory over Lubin will land him the world title shot he covets.

“I think a win does show that I’m ready for a title shot,” said Ramos. “A win over Erickson Lubin, plus my previous wins, shows what level I’m on. It’s a huge statement, especially if I look impressive. If I’m able to dominate him, it shows that I’m on a different level.”

The 27-year-old Lubin will step into the ring with his own motivation and a proven ability to turn a contest into a toe-to-toe clash. His only defeats came first in 2017 in a loss to Jermell Charlo, and in 2022 as he was defeated by Sebastian Fundora in one of the year’s best fights, one in which Lubin had led on the scorecards at the time the fight ended. For Ramos, he thinks highly of Lubin’s resume and has had a fight against him on his mind before it was ever offered.

“Lubin is a great fighter and he’s really a warrior,” said Ramos. “He’ll fight anybody and he doesn’t back down from a fight. We saw it against Fundora. Things got tough and he was still fighting back. Facing him was actually something we’ve talked about, even after the injury. Me and my dad talked about possibly facing him on this card when it was announced, so it was really the law of attraction that made it happen.”

As a rising Mexican-American star, Ramos has relished in the upcoming opportunity to compete as the co-main event to a Canelo Álvarez topped event. Having watched Canelo for years before embarking on his own pro career, Ramos is excited to show the many fans tuning in what he’s capable of.

“I remember when Canelo was the co-main event for Floyd Mayweather, we would always watch him, so now to be his co-main event is huge for me,” said Ramos. “I’m embracing every second of it. Fans are going to see the best version of Jesus Ramos on September 30. This has been a strong training camp and it’s going to reflect in the ring on fight night.”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions, are available through AXS.com. 

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ABOUT CANELO VS. CHARLO

Canelo vs. Charlo will see pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez defend his undisputed super middleweight world titles in a blockbuster showdown against hard-hitting undisputed junior middleweight world champion Jermell Charlo headlining a SHOWTIME PPV (8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT) Saturday, September 30 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Canelo Promotions will present the Premier Boxing Champions Pay-Per-View. 

The pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will see undefeated sensation Jesus “Mono” Ramos Jr. take on hard-hitting top contender Erickson “Hammer” Lubin in the 12-round super welterweight co-main event. The pay-per-view also includes former world champions Yordenis Ugas and Mario “El Azteca” Barrios going toe-to-toe for the Interim WBC Welterweight Title. Opening up the action are rising middleweights Elijah Garcia and Armando Reséndiz squaring off in a 10-round attraction.

For more information visit sho.com/ppv and www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #CaneloCharlo, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing and www.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/.




Press Conference Notes: Tyson Fury and Francis Ngannou Meet Face-to-Face in London

LONDON (Sept. 7, 2023) – Lineal & WBC heavyweight boxing champion Tyson “The Gypsy King” Fury and lineal heavyweight MMA king Francis Ngannou met face-to-face today at the kickoff press conference for the most anticipated combat sports event of the year.

Fury and Ngannou will collide in a 10-round boxing match on Saturday, October 28 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in an epic showdown between two giants of their fields, which will mark the opening of this year’s Riyadh Season. The fight will take place under the official rules of professional boxing, with the three ringside judges using the 10-point must system.

This clash of heavyweight titans is promoted by Queensberry, Top Rank and Ngannou’s promotional banner, GIMIK Fight Promotions.
 ?
Fury-Ngannou will be available on pay-per-view in the United States.

At today’s press conference, this is what Fury, Ngannou and Hall of Fame promoters Bob Arum and Frank Warren had to say:

Tyson Fury

“I’m absolutely honored to be fighting Francis.  He’s going to be a very, very good fighting man. You can see that he’s massive. He’s in shape. He’s going to be a real challenge. It’s something different for me. I’m used to boxing boxers and boxing the head off of somebody. But fighting an MMA guy who comes in with a different style is going to be different.”

“I can’t wait for it. It’s going to be an absolutely fantastic event. I’m honored that I’m a part of it, and I’m honored that Francis is a part of it. I’ve got to take my hat off to Francis for his story, where he’s come from, the fight, the grind, the determination and everything he’s put into it to get to where he is.”

“I will give Francis the respect that he deserves as a warrior, as a man and as a world champion. He’s a big man. He’s very strong and powerful. And it’s in my interest to give it the 100 percent training in camp and bring in the best sparring possible for me.”

Francis Ngannou 

“I am very excited. I am very happy. I have been dreaming of becoming a boxer since I was a kid. And today, I’m not just going to box; I’m going to box the guy at the peak of the mountain. Usually, I would not pay attention to what is going around. But this thing is so big that I can’t stop thinking about it. History is going to be made.”

“It’s something that I didn’t see coming, even though my dream was always there. I always hoped for it to happen some day. But I didn’t see it lay out this way as one of the biggest events of the world. This is not just a fight. We are going to open up Riyadh Season. So, it is a cultural event that we are fighting on. And we’ll just make this fight bigger and bigger. Nobody knows exactly what’s going to happen, but what I do know for sure is that I’m going to be out there hunting for that guy’s head to take it off. I can guarantee that.”
 
Bob Arum

“This is a massive event around the world, but it’s particularly massive in the United States because MMA has become one of the most popular sports there and Francis Ngannou is a legend in that sport. And Tyson has performed so admirably in the United States over the past few years that he is a massive figure in sports. The fact that they’re both coming together is something that is creating tremendous interest in the United States.”

Frank Warren

“This is a massive event. This is the biggest event I’ve ever been involved with. It’s a crossover event. You’ve got a guy who is the best in his discipline. He is the heavyweight champion. And you’ve got the man, the lineal champion, Tyson Fury, who has done everything you can ask for in a fighter. He’s an undefeated champion, a brilliant boxer and fighter. He can box or he can stand and trade with you. This is going to be something special.”

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About Riyadh Season:
Saudi Arabia’s capital embraces one of the world’s biggest entertainment events every year during winter. Since the launch of the Riyadh Season in 2019, the festival has welcomed visitors from all over the world to experience thousands of concerts, sporting events, dining experiences and other unique cultural events. In 2023, Riyadh Season will commence on Saturday, 28 October with a spectacular opening ceremony and an historic boxing match between Tyson Fury and Francis Ngannou.




AUDIO: Talking Boxing W/Ray Flores






TICKETS FOR ALEXIS “LEX” ROCHA VS. GIOVANI “GALLO DE ORO” SANTILLAN TO GO ON SALE FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 8

INGLEWOOD, CALIF. (September 7, 2023) – Tickets for the welterweight showdown between NABO Welterweight Titleholder Alexis “Lex” Rocha (23-1, 15 KOs) of Santa Ana and San Diego’s undefeated and No.4 WBO-ranked Giovani “Gallo de Oro” Santillan (31-0, 16 KOs) will go on sale Friday, September 8 at 10:00 a.m. PT. The 12-round title defense, presented in association with Top Rank, will take place at the famous Kia Forum and broadcast live worldwide on DAZN

Tickets for Rocha vs. Santillan are priced at $150, $100, $75, $50 and $30 plus applicable fees. A limited amount of Golden Boy VIP Experience tickets will also be available for purchase with exclusive merchandise and fight night upgrades included. Standard and VIP tickets can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com or GoldenBoyPromotions.com.

More information on the undercard will be announced soon.

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Rocha vs. Santillan is a 12-round welterweight fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Top Rank. The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

Media interested in covering the fight can apply for a credential at https://www.emccredentials.com/rocha_santillan. Applications are due EOD, October 13, 2023.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #RochaSantillan 

About the Kia Forum

The Kia Forum, located in Inglewood, California, is the only arena-sized venue in the country dedicated to music and entertainment, delivering a superior experience for artists and fans alike. The iconic venue attracts a wide variety of premier events including the biggest names in music and entertainment, award shows, combat sports and more. Fans at the Kia Forum enjoy approximately 8,000 square feet of event level hospitality offerings, including merchandise and food and beverage options. A tinted glass wall separates this concession area from the arena, ensuring fans do not miss a moment of the show. A 40,000-square-foot outdoor terrace wraps around the perimeter of the building and offers comfortable furnishings and food and beverage options from some of SoCal’s most celebrated brands. Designed with entertainers and performers in mind, Kia Forum Backstage includes star-caliber dressing rooms that provide unparalleled comfort. The Kia Forum was honored at the 2022 Pollstar Awards as recipient of the Arena of the Decade award. For more information, please visit thekiaforum.comInstagram | Facebook | Twitter




FOSTER AND HERNANDEZ CLASH IN CANCUN ON OCT 28

O’Shaquie Foster will defend his WBC World Super-Featherweight title against Eduardo ‘Rocky’ Hernandez at the Benito Juárez Sports Center in Cancun, Mexico on Saturday October 28, live worldwide on DAZN, in association with Pepe Gomez and Cancun Boxing.
 
Foster (20-2 11 KOs) landed the vacant belt in San Antonio, Texas in February, becoming the first fighter to defeat Mexican Rey Vargas on points to become World champion at the first attempt. The Houston native meets Mexican opposition again in his maiden defense on hostile ground, with the well-traveled champion fighting in a fourth country in his last seven fights. 
 
Hernandez (34-1 31 KOs) lands his mandatory shot at Foster on home turf and the big punching challenger will relish having his first World title fight in Mexico. ‘Rocky’ has been on a ferocious run of KO wins, recording his sixth straight win inside six rounds with a third round bludgeoning of Hector Garcia in Monterrey in July.
 
“It’s that time again!” said Foster. “King Shock is back in action. I’m excited for the opportunity to be back in the ring and defend my title. 
 
“We’re once again going into uncharted territory, so I’m eager to prove once again that I’m the best in the world and that I’m here to stay! Come October 28, I will dominate!”
 
“I’ve dreamed about this moment my whole life,” said Hernandez. “O’Shaquie is the best 130lbs champion. I beat him, and I show the world that I’m the best in the division.”
 
“This is going to be an explosive clash in Cancun,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “O’Shaquie will be full of confidence heading into his first defense after beating a great fighter like Vargas to win the title, but Rocky is a ferocious puncher that has been destroying everyone put in front of him and won’t take a backwards step in trying to achieve his dream. This is a fight not to miss and I expect yet another great Matchroom fight night in Mexico on October 28.”
 
The first undercard action announced on the card sees Australian Heavyweight Justis Huni make his long-awaited Matchroom debut against Andrew Tabiti. The pair were slated to meet in New Orleans in June, but an ankle injury in sparring for the Aussie amateur standout just weeks before the bout robbed forced the bout to be postponed.
 
Huni (7-0 4 KOs) will be champing at the bit to get back in the ring and kick-off his new dawn with Matchroom after penning a two-year deal with Hearn in February, and the 24 year old fights in the States for the first time in his career against former Cruiserweight World title challenger Tabiti (20-1 16 KOs) in his second fight at Heavyweight following a successful first bout against James Wilson in Jeddah. Saudi Arabia in August 2022.
 
Information on ticket on sale dates and further undercard action will be released soon.




LIVE VIDEO: Tyson Fury vs Francis Ngannou | KICKOFF PRESS CONFERENCE




Kalajdzic Stops Ellison in 8

Radivoje Kalajdzic stopped Mickey Ellison in round eight of their 10-round light heavyweight bout at the Whitesands Event Center in Plant City, Florida.

In round eight Kaladjzic dropped a battered Ellison, who was bleeding around his right eye, two times and the bout was stopped.

Kalaajzic, 174.4 lbs of Saint Petersburg, FL is 28-2 with 20 knockouts. Ellison, 174.6 lbs of Blackburn, UK is 14-5-1.

William Foster III remained Misael Lopez in round nine of their 10-round junior lightweight bout.

In round three, Lopez began to swell under the left eye. Foster landed a hard right that was ruled a knockdown when it was determined the ropes held him up.

In round eight, Foster landed a hard straight right that sent Lopez down on his back. In round nine, Foster landed a jab to the body that was followed up by another booming right and left hook that put Lopez down again and the fight was stopped at 58 seconds.

Foster, 130 lbs of East Haven, CT is 16-0 with 10 knockouts. Lopez, 129.9 lbs of Denver is 14-4.

Jonas Sultan won an eight-round unanimous decision over Frank Gonzalez in a super bantamweight bout.

In round two, Sultan dropped Gonzalez with a right to the body.

In round seven, Sultan was deducted two points for hitting Gonzalez while he was down.

Sultan, 121,2 lbs of the Philippines is 19-6. Gonzalez, 122.8 lbs is 12-4.

Dominic Valle remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Damian Valle in a junior lightweight bout.

In round two, Valle dropped Alcala with a right uppercut to the chin. In round three, it was a right hand that put Alcala on the canvas. Valle continued to batter Alcala with more uppercuts.

Valle, 130 lbs of Tampa, FL won by scores of 60-52 on all cards and is now 7-0. Alcala, 129.8 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 7-3.




VIDEO: GOLDEN BOY FIGHT NIGHT – OFFICIAL WEIGH-IN




VIRTUAL TRAINER’S MEDIA ROUNDTABLE QUOTES FEATURING RONNIE SHIELDS, BOB SANTOS, CALVIN FORD AND ROBERT GARCIA PREVIEWING CANELO VS. CHARLO

LAS VEGAS – September 6, 2023 – Four of the top trainers in the sport, Ronnie Shields, Bob Santos, Calvin Ford and Robert Garcia, offered their insights and analysis of the upcoming historic showdown between Undisputed Super Middleweight World Champion Canelo Álvarez and Undisputed Junior Middleweight World Champion Jermell Charlo during a virtual media roundtable on Wednesday.

Canelo vs. Charlo headlines a SHOWTIME PPV on Saturday, September 30 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Canelo Promotions will present the Premier Boxing Champions Pay-Per-View.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions, are available through AXS.com. 

Here is what the trainers had to say Wednesday, including their predictions for the super fight:

RONNIE SHIELDS, Trainer of Jermall Charlo, former Trainer of Jermell Charlo, Erislandy Lara and more

“This is a big opportunity for Jermell and one that I know he’s not gonna take lightly, He’s gonna do everything in his power to come out victorious. That’s what he does. He wants to be the best, all the time.

“From his last two showings, Canelo has said he has injuries. Now he wants to prove that he hasn’t lost a step. He’s a competitor. He wants his people to stay behind him, so I think he actually comes into the fight in the best shape he’s been in in a long time.

Charlo is one of the few fighters who holds his power throughout the whole fight. You don’t get too many of those, but Canelo is also able to do that. It really makes this a great fight.

“Charlo has to make sure he wins rounds convincingly. You won’t win close rounds against Canelo. You have to keep pushing. Canelo has great defense, so Charlo has to be in great shape and push from beginning to end.

“You don’t see a lot of fighters go to Canelo’s body, because it’s hard to get close enough to do it. He’ll have to come up with a scheme to get into that position.

“I think Jermell Charlo wins this fight by split-decision.”

BOB SANTOS, 2022 Ring Magazine Trainer of the Year, Trainer of Mario Barrios, Hector Luis Garcia and more

“This is gonna be a very competitive fight. People are talking about Canelo being the bigger guy but I’ve been around both fighters quite a bit and I think people are missing that Charlo is a big guy. He might be naturally the bigger guy. Canelo has built his body up over time.

“It’s gonna come down to who wants it more and who can implement their game plan. I think Canelo is more comfortable in these kinds of fights, but I know that Charlo won’t have a problem with the size.

“I think Canelo has a chip on his shoulder. I take the John Ryder fight with a grain of salt, because no matter what guys say, it’s hard to get motivated sometimes when you’re not fighting elite guys. When you fight elite guys, you know your career is on the line. Canelo knows what kind of dangerous opponent Jermell Charlo is. I’m expecting the best Canelo for this fight.

“I think somebody is getting stopped. I’m not gonna say who, but I think it’ll come down to whoever capitalizes on the mistakes that their opponent makes.

“I could see either guy capitalizing in this fight. It wouldn’t surprise me if either guy stopped the other. I think Canelo probably wins, but I like how Charlo punches short and direct. I could see him catching Canelo with some of those straight shots.

“I won’t be surprised if Charlo wins, but I’m 55-45 leaning towards Canelo. I really think somebody is getting knocked out.”

CALVIN FORD, Trainer for Five-Time World Champion Gervonta Davis

“Canelo is changing up some things and going back to what got him here. For Charlo, this is a fight that he’s been asking for. He’s very motivated and that mentality will be important in this fight.

“Both guys have chips on their shoulders. Charlo knows the statement he can make with a win. Canelo is on the throne right now, and he doesn’t wanna get knocked off. These guys can both punch. We’ll see who executes their game plan. This fight could be a real roller coaster ride.

“Charlo has nothing to lose. If he goes in there with that attitude, then he can be victorious. Canelo is that guy right now and he’s changed his camp, so I know he’s taking this fight really seriously.

“Canelo’s defense is strong, so Charlo really needs to stay on him. Somebody has to take a chance, and that’s where we’ll see the knockout.

“Somebody is going to sleep. I don’t know which one, but someone is going to sleep.”

ROBERT GARCIA, 2011 Ring Magazine and 2012 BWAA Trainer of the Year, former Trainer of Mikey Garcia, Abner Mares and more

“I can’t wait for this fight. It’s gonna be one of those challenges that Canelo will need to be in top shape for. The size won’t matter. I’m pretty sure when it comes to fight night, they’ll be around the same weight. It’s gonna be very competitive and I can’t wait.

“Everyone says that Canelo is one of the hardest working fighters they’ve ever seen. But Canelo hasn’t looked that good his last couple of fights. That is a reason to give Charlo a really good chance. Charlo is not gonna hold back.

“You can train to the best of your abilities, but sometimes your body just doesn’t respond as well. Canelo may be training as hard as ever, but he’s had 18 years as a professional fighter. I still pick him to win the fight, but I don’t think it’s gonna be easy.

“Boxing needs these kinds of fights and I’m so glad we’ve had a lot of them recently. It’s been such a great year and it’s just getting better and better.

“If Charlo wins this fight, I think he’d be number two pound-for-pound after Terence Crawford. I think it’s that big of a fight.

“This is a tough one to pick. If Canelo wins by knockout, I think it’s under eight rounds. Late rounds is where Charlo could actually stop Canelo. If it goes the distance, I think Canelo edges a decision.”

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ABOUT CANELO VS. CHARLO

Canelo vs. Charlo will see pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez defend his undisputed super middleweight world titles in a blockbuster showdown against hard-hitting undisputed junior middleweight world champion Jermell Charlo headlining a SHOWTIME PPV (8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT) Saturday, September 30 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Canelo Promotions will present the Premier Boxing Champions Pay-Per-View.  

The pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will see undefeated sensation Jesus “Mono” Ramos Jr. take on hard-hitting top contender Erickson “Hammer” Lubin in the 12-round super welterweight co-main event. The pay-per-view also includes former world champions Yordenis Ugas and Mario “El Azteca” Barrios going toe-to-toe for the Interim WBC Welterweight Title. Opening up the action are rising middleweights Elijah Garcia and Armando Reséndiz squaring off in a 10-round attraction.

For more information visit sho.com/ppv and www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #CaneloCharlo, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing and www.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/.




Luis Alberto “El Venado” Lopez: “Knocking Out Joet Gonzalez is a Personal Challenge!”

LAS VEGAS (Sept. 6, 2023)  IBF featherweight world champion Luis Alberto “El Venado” Lopez looks to kick off Mexican Independence Day weekend with an emphatic defense of his title.

Lopez will defend his crown against two-time world title challenger Joet Gonzalez on Friday, September 15 at American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas. 

Lopez-Gonzalez, Xander Zayas-Roberto Valenzuela Jr., and the return of lightweight sensation Emiliano Fernando Vargas will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com.

Lopez (28-2, 16 KOs) overcame numerous challenges in his quest to become a world champion. After early-career losses to Abraham Montoya and Ruben Villa, he defeated Andy Vences via split decision in July 2020 and dominated then-unbeaten prospect Gabriel Flores Jr. in September 2021. After scoring three more wins, he earned his shot at the IBF title, dethroning Josh Warrington in his hometown of Leeds, England. In his first defense, the 30-year-old once again traveled to enemy territory and beat Michael Conlan via fifth-round TKO in Belfast. Gonzalez (26-3, 15 KOs) is a 29-year-old contender who is coming off a 10-round unanimous decision victory against Jose Enrique Vivas in April.

Following a recent training session, this is what Lopez had to say:

“I’m always working on being a little smarter and on knowing how to do everything in the ring because sometimes we are going to need it. I am always working on improving all aspects.”

“I’m going for the knockout. It’s a personal challenge that I have. Joet Gonzalez has faced great fighters like Shakur Stevenson, Emanuel Navarrete and Isaac Dogboe, and he has never been knocked out. Knocking out a tough fighter like him is a huge goal for me.” 

“I know this fight will be difficult. Joet Gonzalez is a fighter who comes forward throwing a lot of punches. But I like to come forward, too. So, we know it’s going to be a real clash.”

“Representing Mexicans on such an important night is a great motivation. And I can’t wait for the fight. We’re ready. We have a plan ready, and we are going to do our job. We are going to put on a great show on September 15.”




RIGOBERTO HERMOSILLO TRAINING CAMP NOTES

LONG BEACH, CA (September 6, 2023) – Featherweight Rigoberto Hermosillo (13-4-1, 9 KOs), from Los Angeles, CA is ready to battle Alexis De Luna (10-1, 5 KOs) from Bakersfield, CA. The 8-round bout will headline Camponovo Sports “New Blood” boxing series taking place at Infinite Reality Studios in Long Beach, California, on Saturday, September 9, 2023.

In the 8-round co-main event, Long Beach’s undefeated super lightweight, Emiliano Moreno (6-0, 4 KOs), will face off against Guadalajara, Mexico’s Levy Garcia Benitez (3-0-1, 2 KOs).

“New Blood” will broadcast live on FOX Deportes, and air on tape delay on Estrella TV and beIN SPORTS, reaching a combined total of 98-million homes in the United States. Doors open at 4:30 pm PT with the first fight starting at 5:30 pm PT. Televised fights start at 7:00 pm PT. Tickets priced $60 – $150 (Plus applicable fees), are available for purchase by calling 800-283-8699 or online at 

www.cbnpromotions.com.

Here is what Hermosillo had to say about his recent training camp, his matchup with De Luna, fighting in the main event of a new boxing series, and more.

On his recent training camp:

“I had a good amount of time to get ready for this fight, so my training camp was very productive. I worked on a lot of footwork drills and sitting on my punches more. My trainer Eddie Gonzalez has me in tremendous shape.

On his matchup with Alexis De Luna:

“De Luna is a young hungry fighter who is looking to make a name for himself. His only loss was a split decision so he could easily be undefeated. I have a few tricks up my sleeve that I know will be a problem for him. I feel my experience will be the key to victory.”

On fighting in main event live on FOX Deportes:

“I can’t wait to fight on FOX Deportes, its something I’ve been looking forward to since the fight was announced. I’m going to take full advantage of the opportunity and bring the fight to my opponent. This fight will be an all out Mexican war.”

On fighting at the Infinite Realty Studios on an exciting new boxing series:

“I’ve been to these studios, and they are incredible. Everything is top notch, and the show is going to look fantastic on television. I’m happy to be headlining “New Blood” and I won’t disappoint, I’m going to let my hands go and give the fans a great show.”

This event is sponsored by, Bud LightHUSTLER Casino, LA’s only luxury Casino and Shoe Palace.




BLOCKBUSTER UFC® HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP BOUT BETWEEN (C) JON JONES AND (#3) STIPE MIOCIC HEADLINES AT MADISON SQUARE GARDEN

Las Vegas – UFC® returns to Madison Square Garden with the biggest heavyweight championship bout in company history when Jon Jones defends his newly-won belt against two-time titleholder and current No. 3 ranked contender Stipe Miocic.

UFC® 295: JONES vs. MIOCIC takes place Sat., November 11 at Madison Square Garden in New York City with the main card at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT on ESPN+ PPV. The prelims will be available on ESPNNEWS and ESPN Deportes, as well as simulcast in English and Spanish on ESPN+, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. The early prelims will kick off at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT on ESPN+ and UFC Fight Pass.

UFC® 295: JONES vs. MIOCIC tickets will go on sale Fri., September 8 at 10 a.m. ET and are available for purchase at ticketmaster.com and msg.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. UFC Fight Club® members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets Wed., September 6 at 10 a.m. ET via the website www.ufcfightclub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thurs., September 7 starting at 10 a.m. ET. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

Media members wishing to apply for fight week credentials may sign up here.

Two-division champion Jones (27-1 1NC, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M. by way of Endicott, N.Y.) looks to secure his first heavyweight title defense. Among the best fighters ever, he has earned spectacular wins over former champions Rashad Evans, Mauricio “Shogun” Rua and Quinton “Rampage” Jackson. Jones now aims to add to his legacy by stopping Miocic in emphatic fashion.

Greatest heavyweight of all time Miocic (20-4, fighting out of Independence, Ohio) plans to become the first fighter to finish Jones. A two-time champion, Miocic holds memorable victories against Daniel Cormier (twice), Alistair Overeem and Fabricio Werdum. Miocic now intends to join Randy Couture in the history books by capturing the heavyweight title for a third time.

Additional bouts on the card include:

  • No. 7 ranked middleweight contender Derek Brunson (23-9, fighting out of Wilmington, N.C.) squares off with No. 8 Roman Dolidze (12-2, fighting out of Batumi, Georgia)
  • Former strawweight champion and current No. 6 ranked contender Jessica Andrade (24-12, fighting out of Niteroi, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) faces No. 8 Mackenzie Dern (13-3, fighting out of Huntington Beach, Calif.)
  • No. 8 ranked flyweight contender Matt Schnell (16-7 1NC, fighting out of Shreveport, La.) locks horns with No. 14 Steve Erceg (10-1, fighting out of Perth, Western Australia)
  • Joshua Van (8-1, fighting out of Houston, Texas) meets recent Dana White’s Contender Series signee Kevin Borjas (9-1, fighting out of Lima, Peru) in a clash of flyweight prospects

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

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About UFC®

UFC® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 700 million fans and 243 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world while broadcasting to over 900 million TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 75 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is owned by global entertainment, sports, and content company Endeavor, and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok: @UFC.

About Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.

Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (MSG Entertainment) is a leader in live entertainment, delivering unforgettable experiences while forging deep connections with diverse and passionate audiences. The Company’s portfolio includes a collection of world-renowned venues – New York’s Madison Square Garden, The Theater at Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall, and Beacon Theatre; and The Chicago Theatre – that showcase a broad array of sporting events, concerts, family shows, and special events for millions of guests annually. In addition, the Company features the original production, the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes, which has been a holiday tradition for 89 years. More information is available at www.msgentertainment.com.

About ESPN+ 

https://espnpressroom.com/us/espnplus/

About ESPN

ESPN, the world’s leading multiplatform sports entertainment brand, features eight U.S. television networks, the leading sports app, direct-to-consumer ESPN+, leading social and digital platforms, ESPN.com, ESPN Audio, endeavors on every continent around the world, and more. ESPN is 80 percent owned by ABC, Inc. (an indirect subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company) and 20 percent by Hearst.




Undefeated Dominic Valle in Action TONIGHT in Plant City, Florida

NEW YORK (September 6, 2023) – TONIGHT at the White Sands Event Center in Plant City, Florida, Undefeated featherweight Dominic Valle will be back in action as he tales on Damian Alcala in a six-round bout.

Valle, who is managed by Split-T Management is 6-09 with five knockouts.

The 22 year-old Valle is from Lutz, Florida and scored a sixth round stoppage over Carlos Rosario (6-1) in Plant City.

Alcala of Chula Vista, California is 7-2 with one knockout. The 29 year-old Alcala has a win over Nestor Luna Alonso. Alcala has won three straight fights, which includes a six-round decision over Eduardo Olorza Rivas on April 28th in Tijuana, Mexico.

Valle is promoted by Pro Box Promotions. The bout can be seen on Pro Box TV at 8 PM ET.




AMANDA SERRANO MAKES HISTORY ONCE AGAIN AS SHE IS SET TO FACE DANILA RAMOS IN THE FIRST EVER WOMEN’S UNIFIED TITLE BOUT AT 12 THREE- MINUTE ROUNDS ON FRIDAY OCTOBER 27th LIVE ON DAZN

San Juan, Puerto Rico – September 6, 2023 – Today, Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) took another historic step on its mission to advance women in boxing to be treated equal to their male peers, announcing the first ever Women’s Unified Championship bout with the same rules as a Men’s Championship. Seven division boxing world champion and undisputed featherweight champion Amanda “The Real Deal” Serrano (45-2-1, 30 KOs)will face mandatory WBO featherweight challenger Danila “A Guerreira” Ramos (12-2, 1 KO) on Friday, October 27th at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. Serrano vs. Ramos will be preceded by MVP’s third installment of its Most Valuable Prospects series, presented by Celsius Essential Energy Drinks. The WBO, WBA and IBF world title fight between Serrano and Ramos will be contested at 126 lbs and will set a long-awaited historic precedent in women’s boxing as Serrano vs. Ramos will be contested over 12 three-minute rounds, equal to men’s championship fights. To date, per the Association of Boxing Commissions and Combative Sports women’s championship fights have been contested as 10 round bouts at 2 minutes per round. Most Valuable Prospects III which precedes Serrano vs. Ramos will be headlined by Antonio Vargas (16-1, 9KOs) as he looks to defend his WBA Continental Americas bantamweight title in a 10 round bout. Serrano vs. Ramos and Most Valuable Prospects III will be available globally on DAZN, with tickets set to go on sale Wednesday, September 13th at www.ticketmaster.com.

Serrano vs. Ramos seeks to set a new standard for women’s boxing, one that hasn’t been seen since Layla McCarter vs. Melissa Hernandez in 2007. This marks over 15 years since the sport has garnered a women’s fight equal to the men’s maximum of 12 rounds at 3 minutes each. Now, with the world watching, Serrano and Ramos will show a new generation of female boxers that they can do anything their male counterparts can do and for the first time ever compete at the same level for a unified world championship title.

Serrano, the first ever Puerto Rican undisputed world champion, started her current WBO featherweight title reign by defeating Heather Hardy in a brutal 10 round fight in 2019 to win the WBO belt, and has since defended her WBO belt five times. Most recently, Serrano offered Hardy redemption, but successfully defended her undisputed featherweight world champion title for the first time in a decisive 10 round unanimous decision victory. Serrano also won a blood-soaked war against WBA featherweight champion Erika Cruz back in February, which made her the undisputed featherweight champion. Serrano’s decisive win against Cruz followed her previous win over Sarah Mahfoud in Manchester, England that added the Dane’s IBF title to her WBO, WBC, and IBO featherweight belts. Her historic clash against Katie Taylor at Madison Square Garden in 2022 earned recognition as Sports Illustrated’s Fight of the Year and The Ring’s Event of the Year and was further nominated for Event of the Year by Sports Business Journal. 

Beyond her power packed punches, the Puerto Rican native is a fierce advocate for equality in women’s boxing. Her headlining bout against Katie Taylor in 2022 broke barriers in women’s boxing when it came to equal pay and was the first combat sports event headlined by two women at Madison Square Garden. Serrano will continue to make history as she faces Ramos, proving that boxers of all genders should compete at the very highest level possible, creating a new, equal standard of 12 three-minute rounds, irrespective of gender.

“Danila Ramos may be my WBO mandatory challenger, but when we step in the ring, she will understand exactly why I am the undisputed featherweight champion,” said Amanda Serrano. “But this fight is about more than some belts. We have faced a long and hard battle, united as women, to achieve the same pay, respect, and recognition in boxing. Together, on Friday, October 27th, we will make history and prove to the world once again, how incredible women’s boxing is and that we are just as tough, dynamic, and capable as any man in the ring, if not more so. This is a fight for women everywhere to be treated the same as their male counterparts.”

Ramos, the veteran fighter out of Buenos Aires by way of Sao Paulo, Brazil, was ordered by the WBO on August 28th as mandatory challenger for Serrano’s featherweight world title. On August 18th, Ramos won the WBO Interim World Featherweight Championship via a split decision over Brenda Karen Carbajal in Buenos Aires who had held the belt since May 13th, 2022. She shares the same sentiment and desire as Serrano when it comes to showing the world that the rules of elite boxing should be the same for men and women.

“Fighting Amanda Serrano for 12 three-minute rounds for a Unified Championship is set to break the barriers that we women have been looking to do for many years,” said Danila Ramos. “We will go down in history and in the books, it will be a fight of two women warriors! I am preparing like never before for this fight and will proudly represent Brazil as we battle in Orlando, Florida and I look to bring all the belts home.”

“MVP has been focused on disrupting and transforming boxing since our inception two years ago and Amanda Serrano has been a key pillar of those efforts. She is not one of the greatest female boxers ever, she is one of the greatest boxers ever, period,” said Nakisa Bidarian and Jake Paul, co-founders of Most Valuable Promotions. “On Friday, October 27th, Amanda will once again demonstrate that she is a true ambassador of the sport and an advocate for all female athletes. Her dedication to transforming this sport into the best it can be is nothing short of admirable and she does it all with class outside the ring and a supreme intensity inside the ring. We also recognize Danila Ramos for her determination to show the world that women are equal. Additionally, it’s important that we thank the Florida Athletic Commission for approving this fight and being a part of this historic event.”

“Amanda Serrano is a true trailblazer and innovator”, said Joe Markowski, CEO DAZN North America. “Since DAZN started working with Amanda, she has pushed for three minute rounds, and so we are proud to be involved in this historic night for the sport on October 27th. Watch it live around the world on DAZN.”

Serrano vs. Ramos will be preceded by MVP’s third installment of its Most Valuable Prospects series, presented by Celsius Essential Energy Drinks. The main card of Most Valuable Prospects III will feature three exciting matchups, including the return of the young Puerto Rican sensation Krystal Rosado, Amanda Serrano’s first official signed fighter, who made her pro-debut on Most Valuable Prospects II with an impressive TKO victory in the second round, demonstrating her superstar potential. The Most Valuable Prospects series is produced and promoted by MVP, with Boxlab Promotions serving as the official licensed promoter and is distributed by DAZN. The third event in the series continues the commitment from MVP co-founders Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian to highlight the world’s best up-and-coming boxing talent. All events within Most Valuable Prospects will take place on Friday nights in 2023 and will be hosted by Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, FL. DAZN will air the series globally across its platforms as a part of its subscription package which will include Serrano vs. Ramos, the entire main card lineup and prelims. CELSIUS Essential Energy Drinks, maker of lifestyle energy drink, is the exclusive energy drink sponsor of the Most Valuable Prospects series.

For more information, follow on Twitter via @Serranosisters, @MostVPromotions, and @DAZNBoxing or on Instagram via @serranosisters, @daniboxe, @MostValuablePromotions, and @DAZNBoxing.

About Most Valuable Promotions (MVP)

Most Valuable Promotions was founded by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian in 2021. With the mission to provide more creative control to fighters, MVP works to identify, grow, and maximize return for its own events and talent partners. One year into its inception, MVP was nominated as one of the prestigious Sports Breakthroughs of the Year in 2022 by Sports Business Journal. MVP has produced Jake Paul’s last four global pay-per-view events, including the recent Paul vs. Fury match, which surpassed 800,000 Pay-per-view buys worldwide. The promotion company also signed one of the most decorated Hispanic athletes of all time, Amanda Serrano in its first year. Serrano and MVP made history in April of 2022 when Serrano went head to head with Katie Taylor, marking the first female fight to headline at Madison Square Garden, recently earning a nomination for Event of The Year by Sports Business Journal. Co-founder Nakisa Bidarian was an executive producer of the historic Triller Presents Mike Tyson v. Roy Jones Jr., which was the 8th most bought pay-per-view event in history.

About DAZN

DAZN is a leading digital sports platform in Italy, Spain, Germany, Belgium, Portugal, Japan, Canada, US and the UK.? Its wide range of exclusive content includes top-flight football from the world’s most popular competitions – Bundesliga, English Premier League, J.League, LaLiga, Serie A, and the UEFA Champions League, in addition to the biggest sports from around the world – Formula 1, NFL, NBA, MotoGP and the UFC.? 

DAZN is the NFL’s global partner and, from the 2023 season, will be the only place for fans around the world to watch every NFL match through the NFL Game Pass International add-on subscription. DAZN is a global home for boxing and combat sports through its partnerships with Matchroom Boxing the Professional Fighters League, and a global home for Women’s Football with UEFA Women’s Champions League and Finetwork Liga F.? DAZN is adding more and more sport to its platform to create a destination for sports fans.?

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DAZN is reimagining the way people enjoy sport. With a single, frictionless platform, sports fans can watch, bet, play, share, socialize, and buy tickets, NFTs and merchandise. Live and on-demand sports content, anywhere, in any language, on any device – only on DAZN.?

DAZN is available on most connected devices including smart TVs, set-top boxes, streaming sticks, smartphones, tablets, PCs and game consoles, ensuring that fans have access to ground-breaking rights catalog and slate of incredible content. In the UK and globally, DAZN can be accessed on Samsung, LG, Sony and Panasonic Smart TVs and on Games Consoles including PlayStation and Xbox. Subscribers also have access to DAZN on their Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Google Chromecast and Apple TV and can find the app on their iPhone, iPad, and android mobile devices. DAZN is available as an Amazon Channel on Amazon Prime TV and can be viewed on Channel 429 on Sky in the UK and Ireland.   

DAZN is a global, privately-owned company with employees in over 25 countries. For more information on DAZN, our products, people, and performance, visit?www.dazngroup.com.??

About Caribe Royale Orlando Resort

Located just minutes from the Walt Disney World® Resort in the nation’s number one convention and tourist destination, Caribe Royale Orlando is the only AAA Four Diamond all-suite meetings resort in Orlando. A TripAdvisor 2022 Travelers’ Choice Award winner – among just 10 percent of hotels worldwide to receive the distinction – the upscale Caribe Royale is emerging from a $140 million renovation that includes fully remodeling all of its one-bedroom suites, an all-new 50,000-square-foot grand ballroom (bringing the total meeting space to 220,000 square feet), and an inviting new lobby. Being privately-owned, Caribe Royale offers meeting planners faster approval cycles and more flexibility to create stand-out events. To learn more or to book a visit, event or meeting, visit www.cariberoyale.com. Follow the all-suite convention hotel on Facebook, Instagram,Twitter(@cariberoyale), LinkedIn and Pinterest. #cariberoyaleorlando

About CELSIUS Holdings, Inc.

CELSIUS Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: CELH), is a global consumer packaged goods company with a proprietary, clinically proven formula. A lifestyle energy drink born in fitness and a pioneer in the rapidly growing energy category. CELSIUS energy drinks offer proprietary, functional, essential energy formulas clinically-proven to offer significant health benefits to its users. CELSIUS energy drinks are backed by six university studies that were published in peer-reviewed journals validating the unique benefits provided by them. For more information, please visit: https://www.celsius.com.




World Ranked Super Featherweight William Foster III to face Misael Lopez for the WBA Fedecentro Title This Wednesday Night In Plant City, Florida

New Haven, CT (September 5, 2023)–World ranked Super Featherweight contender William Foster III will be back in action this Wednesday night when he takes on Misael Lopez at The Probox Whitesands Event Center in Plant City, Fl. Foster was originally scheduled to fight Fradimil Macayo on July 12th but the fight was scratched when Macayo unexpectedly pulled out the day before the fight. Foster versus Lopez will be a 10 round special attraction for the WBA Fedecentro Super Featherweight Title

Foster has a record of 15-0 with nine knockouts. The 29 year-old is ranked number 15 by the WBA. His resume includes notable wins over Sulaiman Segawa (10-0), Angel Suarez (8-2), Jahmal Dyer (9-2), Donald Smith (10-0), world rated and fast rising contender Edwin De Los Santos (13-0) and in his most recent bout he scored a convincing win over respected veteran Avery Sparrow on July 23, 2022 in Philadelphia.

The 27 year old Lopez (Denver, Colorado) will step in the ring with a 14-3 record. He started his career by winning 11 straight bouts which included a victory over undefeated James Wilkins on ShoBox before suffering his first defeat to Jordan White also on ShoBox. Lopez then reeled off three straight wins, including a decision over highly regarded Orlando Gonzalez (18-1). Lopez will be looking to bounce back after dropping his two most recent bouts against top contenders Edward Vazquez, his third appearance on ShoBox, and one time Foster victim Segawa in his most recent outing on May 6th.

?“We were definitely disappointed when we got the news that Macayo had pulled out of the bout on July 12 as we were already in Plant City and ready to go! William had worked extremely hard for that fight and left no stone unturned in camp. Not surprisingly, being the true professional he is, he asked if we could get him back in the ring as soon as possible and more importantly in a meaningful fight. We went right back into discussions with ProBox and we were able to secure this date. William kept his foot on the gas and didn’t skip a beat during training. Under the watchful eye of his trainer Luis Rosa the added preparation time has allowed him to really sharpen his skills for this bout. As a team we can’t wait to see the finished product in action. William gets better every time he steps in the ring and he is ready and willing to take on any of the division’s elite. He is already ranked in the WBA and an impressive showing against Lopez will move him one step closer to a well deserved World Title opportunity. His recent victories over Edwin De Los Santos and Avery Sparrow have proved William is amongst the division’s best. Adding a respected name like Misael Lopez to his resume should really catapult William up in the world rankings. William is fully prepared for anything that he sees in the ring. With his exciting and fan friendly style It is just a matter of time before William is recognized as the class of the 130 pound division!”, stated David Dubinsky of DKO Boxing, Foster’s Co-Manager along with Marilyn Rosa.

An impressive showing on Wednesday is imperative for the up and coming Foster to take the next step in his journey towards being universally recognized as one of the divisions’ most formidable contenders. Sometimes a change in opponents can cause trepidation for a fighter but the switch from Macayo to Lopez does not seem to faze Foster at all.

Said Foster, “Camp went really well. I sparred more rounds for this fight with the extra time and I sparred with different types of fighters, my coach always pushes me beyond my limits. I’m going to surprise him with my speed and the skills that I have developed over the years and with a victory I am hopeful to get a world title fight next. I’ve been in the business long enough and it’s time to get my shot at the title.”




FRIDAY: Christian Mbilli-Demond Nicholson Super Middleweight Showdown Headlines Canada Fight Night LIVE on ESPN+

(Sept. 5, 2023) — Undefeated super middleweight puncher Christian Mbilli defends his WBC Continental Americas belt in the 10-round main event against American contender Demond Nicholson this Friday, Sept. 8 at Theatre du Casino du Lac-Leamy in Gatineau, Canada.

Promoted by Eye of the Tiger, Mbilli-Nicholson headlines a loaded fight card streaming live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ starting at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT.

Mbilli (24-0, 20 KOs), who was born in Cameroon and represented France at the 2016 Olympics, is a six-year pro who won the Continental Americas strap with a third-round TKO over Ronny Landaeta in September 2021. He has notched a slew of a high-level wins since then, including a near-shutout over American standout Ronald Ellis and a fifth-round stoppage of former world title challenger Nadjib Mohammedi. In March, he survived a two-way firefight to topple Carlos Gongora by unanimous decision. Nicholson (26-5-1, 22 KOs), a hard-punching 10-year pro, is coming off a decision loss in January to former two-weight world champion Demetrius Andrade.

In the 10-round junior welterweight co-feature, local favorite Steve Claggett (35-7-2, 25 KOs) defends his NABF title against Mexican veteran Carlos Sanchez (24-1, 19 KOs). Claggett has won six straight bouts, including a third-round TKO over former world champion Alberto Machado.

Middleweight prospect Alexandre Gaumont (8-0, 6 KOs) hopes to increase his KO streak to five when he fights Ulices Tovar Rivera (8-0, 5 KOs) in an eight-rounder.

In other streaming action:

Vanessa Lepage Joanisse (5-1, 2 KOs) vs. Timea Nagy (3-1, 3 KOs), 6 rounds, light heavyweight

Harley David O’Reilly (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Israel Nava Lopez (3-2, 2 KOs), 4 rounds, light heavyweight

Mehmet Nadir Unal (4-0, 4 KOs) vs. Hernan David Perez (9-8, 3 KOs), 6 rounds, light heavyweight

Jhon Orobio (3-0, 3 KOs) vs. Luis Godinez Bautista (4-2-2, 1 KO), 4 rounds lightweight

Luis Santana (9-0, 3 KOs) vs. Sergio Palafox (9-3, 2 KOs), 8 rounds, junior welterweight

Christopher Guerrero (7-0, 3 KOs) vs. Veselin Markov (7-0-1, 5 KOs), 6 rounds, welterweight

Moreno Fendero (Pro Debut) vs. Uziel Bueno (3-2, 2 KOs), 4 rounds, super middleweight

Devin Tomko (8-2, 3 KOs) vs. Juan Santiago Colchado (6-7-1, 5 KOs), 6 rounds, light heavyweight




Undefeated Jordanian lightweight prospect Bader “The Master” Samreen New headliner against Jose Paez Gonzalez

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (September 5, 2023) – Due to a training camp injury suffered by Moussa Gholam, undefeated Jordanian lightweight prospect Bader “The Master” Samreen (8-0, 7 KOs) has been elevated to the 10-round main event for this Saturday’s launch of the Rising Stars Arabia (RSA) series, the first of its kind in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Samreen will face veteran Mexican fighter Jose “Cuate” Paez Gonzales (16-2-2, 12 KOs) in the milestone event, promoted by AAM Seddiqi Sports and sponsored by the Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), steaming live on DAZN from Abu Dhabi’s Mubadala Arena. It is sanctioned by the Middle East Professional Boxing Commission.

The first professional boxer from Jordan, Samreen embodies the spirit of the new RSA series, which will be a game-changer in the Arab boxing world, providing a platform to showcase the best of Arab boxing talent to international and regional audiences. The gifted Jordanian boxer captured a bronze medal at the prestigious 2018 AIBA Youth World Championships as an amateur. When he turned pro in 2021, he moved to Dubai because Jordan didn’t have proper boxing facilities for professionals.

Samreen gained invaluable exposure in the boxing world fighting on the undercard of two major pay-per-view events held in Saudi Arabia, Oleksandr Usyk-Anthony Joshua II, and Jake Paul-Tommy Fury.

Gonzales has a 10-1-2 record in his last 13 fights.

The 10-round co-featured event, UAE super flyweight prospect Sultan Al Nuaimi (9-0, 6 KOs) meets Jemsi Kibazange (18-6-3, 5KOs), of Tanzania. Al Nuaimi, known for his speed and agility, is a hometown favorite in UAE, where he is one of only a few professional boxers in addition to being an amateur champion there.

Undefeated cruiserweight force Mohammed “The Destroyer” Bekdash (25-0, 22 KOs), fighting out of Germany by way of his native Syria, has been added to the card in an eight-round bout versus Musa “Hitman” Ntege (8-4,, 6 KOs), of Uganda. The hard-hitting Bekdash is riding a 13-fight knockout streak dating back to 2015.

Another Jordanian boxer, Bishara Sabbar (6-0-0, 4KOs), is matched against India’s Mohd Azahar (8-5-1, 7KOs) in an eight-round bout for the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) Youth World super featherweight title.

Also fighting on the undercard are a pair of Egyptian Olympians, welterweight Marwan Mohamad Madboly (2-0, 1 KOs) and heavyweight Youssef Karrar (1-0, 0 KOs, fighting in six and four-round matches, respectively, against South African Sheldon Schultz (4-4, 4 KOs), and pro-debuting Muhammad Muzeei, of Uganda.  

Unbeaten welterweight Rohit Choudhary (4-0-2, KOs), of India, is matched against Iran’s pro-debuting Benyamin Moradzadeh in a six-rounder, while Bahrain featherweight Yousuf Ali (2-0, 0 KOs) faces Semugenyi Alex (0-1), of Uganda, in a four-round contest.  

AAM Seddiqi Sports has been promoting and managing fighters in the region for 10 years and it has a growing stable of more than 30 gifted regional and global talents. Its events include five world title shows that have been broadcasted globally on ESPN, Sky Sports, and other major networks.

DCT Abu Dhabi is responsible for promoting, protecting, and progressing the emirate by driving the strategic and sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture and tourism sectors. As part of its mandate, the department is responsible for promoting regional and global sporting events in the emirate.

Tickets to Rising Stars Arabia are on sale now at abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net. Leading up to the event, fans can find updates on the AAM Seddiqi Sports Instagram channel @seddiqiboxing and on seddiqiboxing.com.

-END-

About Rising Stars Arabia

Presenting Rising Stars Arabia (RSA) – a fighting series promoted by AAM Seddiqi Sports and powered by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi). This marks a notable debut within the UAE and the wider MENA region. This platform, humble in its intentions yet ambitious in its scope, provides aspiring Arab athletes with a unique opportunity to showcase their talents before regional and international audiences.

This significant initiative, grounded in the values of nurturing homegrown and regional talent, represents an important leap towards evolving professional boxing within the region. By doing so, it empowers an emerging generation of athletes with genuine opportunities right at their doorstep – eliminating the need to seek participation abroad.

About the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) drives the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture and tourism sectors, fuelling economic progress and helping to achieve Abu Dhabi’s wider global ambitions. By working in partnership with the organisations that define the emirate’s position as a leading international destination, DCT Abu Dhabi strives to unite the ecosystem around a shared vision of the emirate’s potential, coordinate effort and investment, deliver innovative solutions, and use the best tools, policies, and systems to support the culture, creative and tourism industries.

DCT Abu Dhabi’s vision is defined by the emirate’s people, heritage, and landscape. We work to enhance Abu Dhabi’s status as a place of authenticity, innovation, and unparalleled experiences, represented by its living traditions of hospitality, pioneering initiatives, and creative thought.




HITCHINS: I SEE MYSELF BEING A LEGEND IN BOXING

Richardson Hitchins has told Matchroom’s Flash Knockdown podcast he’s on the path to becoming a legend in the sport – and the next step on that journey sees him mix with former World title challenger Jose Zepeda at the Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida on Saturday September 23, live worldwide on DAZN.

Flash Knockdown – Season 3 Episode 3 is out now via all streaming platforms including Apple and Spotify by searching ’The Matchroom Boxing Podcast’ or by listening on the following link: https://pod.fo/e/1e96a7

TICKETS FOR ORLANDO ARE ON SALE NOW AT TICKETMASTER.COM

Hitchins (16-0 7 KOs) is full of confidence ahead of his first headline act and is fresh off the back of shining at home in his last outing, putting New Jersey’s John Bauza on the canvas during a shut-out win at Madison Square Garden, and the Brooklyn ace now lurks with intent at #6 with the WBO and #7 with the IBF in the 140lb rankings. 

Zepeda (36-3 27 KOs) represents a significant barrier to Hitchins’ plans to move into World title contention though, but Hitchins believes that the Californian, who has challenged for World titles at both 135 and 140lbs, is the perfect opponent to prove that he’s ready to 

“Now my foot is in the door headlining my first show against someone who has a great name in the division,” said Hitchins. “It shows my pedigree and skills that I display to get to this part of the journey.

“Zepeda has competed on the World stage. It’s a level up from my previous opponents but if I am who I believe I am, I should win this fight and possibly get him out of there.

“There’s a lot on the line right now but I’m not focused on the belts. My job is to go out there and dominate Zepeda and show who I am, then we can look at the landscape of the division.

“I see myself being a legend of the sport, who has mastered the craft of boxing. I want to inspire the next generation, if you see the progression in my career from my amateur status to now, I can relate to the young talent coming through.”

Hitchins also reveals how a visit from Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis boosted his preparations and gives his pick for the potential showdown between Regis Prograis and Devin Haney. The episode also features World title challenger John Ryder talking targeting Gennadiy Golovkin and Jaime Munguia, IBF and Ring Magazine champion Jai Opetaia talks his upcoming defense against Jordan Thompson, leading trainer Jamie Moorepicks his perfect dinner party line up in Food Fight and commentator royalty Mike Costello takes another trip down memory lane with a certain Smokin’ Joe Fraizer, plus there’s a cameo from Eddie Hearn and more!

Hitchins’ clash with Zepeda is part of a stacked night of action in Orlando, with the Welterweight division will move one step closer to crowning an undisputed champion on the night as WBA and WBC champion Jessica McCaskill (12-3 5 KOs) and WBO belt holder Sandy Ryan (6-1 2 KOs) meet for three of the belts. 

Austin ‘Ammo’ Williams (14-0 10 KOs) press his claims for World title action at Middleweight as he tackles Steve Rolls (22-2 12 KOs) and will Orestes Velazquez (7-0 6 KOs) will defend his WBA International Super-Lightweight title to kick off the main card against Mohamed Soumaoro (13-1 6 KOs).

Khalil Coe (6-0-1 4 KOs) continues to rise through the ranks at Light-Heavyweight, and ‘Big Steppa’ headlines the Before The Bell action and will be looking for his third KO win of 2023 against Kenmon Evans (10-1-1 3 KOs). Super-Welterweight Jeovanny Estella (12-0 3 KOs) and Super-Flyweight Jasmine Artega (10-0-1 5 KOs) tasting action over eight rounds while Bantamweight Roberto Rivera Gomez (3-0 2 KOs) kicks the whole night off over four rounds, with all three fighters to be matched imminently.




Split-T Management Signs Undefeated Featherweight Contender Tiara Brown

NEW YORK (September 4, 2023) -Split-T Management has signed undefeated featherweight contender Tiara Brown to a management contract.

Brown of Lehigh Acres, Florida has an undefeated mark of 15-0 with 10 knockouts.

Brown will be managed by Brian Cohen.

“I am very excited to sign with Split-T Management. I think Brian Cohen has done a great job with the many women boxers that he manages.. I like the feeling I get from that. I like the team, and I am glad to be a part of it.  I think Split-T Management will push my career forward and get me in the position that I deserve to be in. I have not had that proper team to push me forward and I see what Split-T Management does with their women. They have had many world champions, and I see myself in that position by the end of this year or early next year,” said Brown

Brown began boxing at the age of 12 as her older cousins were amateur boxers . Brown began to try boxing as a means to stay in shape as she was a basketball player and ran track. Brown started to compete and was starting to excel in the sweet science by competing in national competitions, and boxing became a passion of Brown.

Brown went to Columbus State in Columbus, Georgia on a Cross-Country scholarship.

Tiara continued to box and she became USA National champion. Winning the 2012 world Gold medal propelled her to be the number-one fighter in the world at 125 pounds.. She was the only American to win a Gold Medal on a team that included two-time Olympic Gold Medal winner Claressa Shields, U.S. Olympian Mikaela Mayer, Christina Cruz and future undisputed world champion Franchon Crews Dezurn. The 5’7″ Brown had approximately 80 amateur fights.

Brown turned professional on September 30, 2016 with a first round stoppage over Khadija Sanders in Washington, D.C. Her undefeated resume includes wins over Vanessa Bradford (5-1-2), Jennifer Martinez (2-0) and her last fight when she defeated 42-fight veteran Lilliana Martinez on June 30th in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

Brown is trained by Monyette Flowers




VIDEO: Country Box Weigh-in (Thonson vs Buzolin) for September 5, 2023VIDEO:




Weights From Nashville, Tennessee

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE (September 4, 2023)–Weights for Tuesday night’s Country Box show at The Troubadour in Nashville, Tennessee.

Chann Thonson 134.4 – Nikolai Buzolin 135

(WBA Continental Americas Lightweight Title)

Justin Biggs 154.4 – Eric Bossler 155

Erick Arellano 225.4 – Francois Russlell 250.6

Jaquan Carty 158.6 – Orlenis Licea 157.4

Kevin Torian 200 – Raquan Ashby 191.2

Ermes Orta 139.6 – Raymond Chacon 142,6

Promoter : Jimmy Adams Promotions

Venue: Troubadour Nashville

1st Bell: 8 PM ET (7 PM CT)

TV:

Dish Network–Channel 218

Comcast/Xfinity –Channel 1495

Fios–Channel 662

Frontier–Channel 162

ATT U-Verse–Channel 459/1459

Spectrum–Channel 189

GCI–Channel 142

Cincinnati Bell–636

Buckeye Cable–Channels 161/572

Direct TV–Channel 242

Stream: FITE.TV and Countrybox247.com

Marc Abrams and Albert Haynesworth on the call




Trainer Brian “Bomac” McIntyre Charged with Gun in England

Leading trainer Brian Mcintyre was charged with gun possession as he tried to board a plane with a loaded firearm in Manchester, England on Sunday.

According to various reports, McIntyre was was coming back to the United States after working the corner of Chris Eubank Jr. om Saturday as he stopped Liam Smith in a rematch.

McIntyre, who most notably is the trainer and manager of Undisputed Welterweight champion Terence Crawford will next have a court appearance on October 9th.

England has some of the most strict gun laws in the world as he could be facing a minimum of five years in jail.




AUDIO: The Abrams Boxing Show: Ep 57 w/Ray Flores