TORONTO, ON – Broadcaster Incorporated, creators of critically acclaimed web content devoted exclusively to professional boxing, and producers of Boxing World Weekly, the only news magazine show focussing solely on boxing, is proud to announce they are official media partners of the WBC Light Heavyweight title fight slated for May 19th, at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, between defending champion Adonis Stevenson, and his toughest challenge to date, former two division world champion Badou Jack.

“We’re so pleased to be part of the most important boxing match ever staged in Canada’s most famous arena,” said Boxcaster Associate Producer Dillon Goldsmith.

“This could end up being 2018’s fight of the year and is at the very least the most important light heavyweight title fight of the year, pitting two elite warriors vying for the mantle of the best 175-pound fighter in the world.”

The event, promoted by Lee Baxter Promotions, Groupe Yvon Michel, and Mayweather Promotions, will also feature some of Canada’s top young talent battling it out on the undercard, in fights that could shape the future of the Canadian fight scene.

“Like Boxcaster itself, this card is loaded with great content, and is required viewing for fight fans in every corner of the world, but especially here in Toronto,” said Boxcaster Host and Executive Producer Jason Abelson.

“It’s one of those events that has captured the imagination of fight fans, which is what we do every day at Boxcaster. So Boxcaster and Stevenson vs. Jack is a marriage made in boxing heaven.”

Adam Harris, of Lee Baxter Promotions echoed those statements.

“LBP is thrilled to have Boxcaster on as an official media partner for Stevenson vs. Jack, which is available on Pay-per-view in Canada and on Showtime Championship Boxing in the United States.”

“I don’t think there has ever been a more 50/50 championship fight in Toronto’s history and we have seen an immediate increase in awareness for the event through Boxcaster’s involvement.”

“Their attention to detail, fight knowledge, and relationship with fight fans makes them an obvious choice to partner with for this event. LBP couldn’t ask for a better media partner.”

The fight fancy might be styling Saturday week’s vacant WBO European clash between unbeaten welters Darren Tetley and Mason Cartwright as a classic boxer versus fighter clash but Bradford’s Tetley insists he has the edge in both power and panache ahead of the salivating War of the Roses rumble.

‘Mason’s dropping down from light-middle so will be strong but if strength is all he’s banking on, he’ll come up short, very short! Scott Quigg’s greater strength didn’t win over against Carl Frampton. Strong and tough are not enough!’ insists the stylish 5ft 11in southpaw who arrives fresh off a two knockdown second round slaughter of Liverpool’s useful Terry Needham last October.

‘My boxing brain beats Mason but I’ll not be running away. I’ll be pushing him back and when I land a proper shot, he’ll be shocked. It’s a fact that I’ve a bigger knockout percentage than Cartwright has.’

Though the colliding prospects are undefeated in 29 fights combined, both shall be making their championship debuts in this warm-up to the Lee Selby- Josh Warrington world featherweight title showdown before a five-figure audience at Leeds United’s Elland Road stadium.

However, the 24 year old Bradford scaffolder has successfully negotiated the eight round trip twice, while Ellesmere Port’s Cartwright is yet to venture beyond round six.

‘This is my breakout fight, by far the biggest event of my career and easily the most ‘up for it’ that I’ve been since joining the pros,’ insists ‘TNT’ Tetley, a multiple national junior champion and former Commonwealth Games Youth silver medallist who has racked up 15 straight wins, with six stoppages, since entering the profession back in November 2013.

‘Not many get to have their first title fight at a massive stadium. I’ve told myself: Savour the build-up. Enjoy the interviews, enjoy the occasion.

‘I’ve sold over £12,000 of tickets and can’t thank my supporters enough. It’s certainly handy that I’m only 20 minutes down the road but I don’t really think of it as having home advantage. We’ll both have a lot of support.

‘Previously when I’ve boxed at the First Direct Arena in Leeds (on five occasions), I’ve either been first or last on and there was never much atmosphere. This time, I expect it to be pretty full but I never feel any pressure. I just do it cos I love a fight.’

Flame haired firebrand Cartwright is yet to concede in 14 – one technical draw – but Tetley insists he has put in the graft required to front the challenge.

‘I’ve been sparring my gym mate Tom Young who recently got to the final of the Ultimate Boxxer. He’s very similar to Mason, even looks like him, same hair, loads of tattoos,’ says the married father of two who is mentored by ex-pro Mick Marsden at the Body Mania gym in Rothwell.

‘We expect Cartwright will storm out and try to steam roll me and we’re fully prepared for that. We fully expect him to be fit, as will I. I expect it to turn into the fight of the night. I want a black eye to make me look harder!

‘But I’m not the type to get discouraged if I don’t get rid of an opponent early. I done eight very hard rounds with (Poland’s) Lucasz Janik and smashed my hands on his concrete head. I’ve trained for 10 hard rounds against someone continually in my face.

‘From his Twitter tweets, it appears Mason fights with a lot of emotion, banging his fists and the bag. But if he piles forward, he’ll just walk onto my educated punches and eventually I’ll get to him.
‘My grandad passed away last week. When I have the belt I want him to look down and know that I did it for him.’

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

Willy Hutchinson, the most promising young boxer in Scotland, has signed a promotional deal with Frank Warren.

The 19-year-old Light-Heavyweight from Carstairs currently stands at 3-0 (2 KO’s) since making his professional debut against Attila Tibor Nagy at The O2 in October 2017.

He is Scotland’s most successful amateur boxer having won European Junior gold in 2014 before following that up by becoming World amateur Champion in 2016, becoming the first Scotsman ever to win a World amateur title.

Hutchinson, trained by renowned coach Dominic Ingle alongside undefeated WBO Middleweight World Champion Billy Joe Saunders, is looking forward to making his debut under the Warren banner on the undercard of the blockbuster IBF Featherweight showdown between Lee Selby and Josh Warrington at Elland Road on May 19.

“I’m thrilled to have signed a promotional deal with Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren,” said Hutchinson. “I’m still learning, and learning as much as I can, but I’m extremely fit at the moment and I’m ready to do the job on May 19.

“Fighting on the undercard of such a huge World title show at a football stadium will be a brilliant experience for me. I have faith that I can go all in the way in this sport. I have a fantastic team around me, so if I keep my head down and keep doing what I’m doing, I’m sure I can become a World Champion.”

Frank Warren said: “I’m delighted to have done a deal to add Willy Hutchinson to our ranks. Managed by Shelly Finkel and co-promoted by Richard Schaefer, Willy has an outstanding amateur pedigree and I’m confident that he will be a huge success in the paid ranks. He has an exciting future ahead of him and I look forward to seeing his career develop on our forthcoming shows.”

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

New York City (May 9, 2018) – Vasiliy Lomachenko and Jorge Linares took their talents to the streets of Manhattan on Wednesday, as they participated in an open workout on the corner of 33rd Street and 8th Avenue, just outside Madison Square Garden.

Lomachenko, a two-weight world champion, is looking to conquer a third weight class when he challenges WBA/Ring Magazine lightweight champion Jorge Linares on Saturday at “The World’s Most Famous Arena.”

Linares vs. Lomachenko headlines an evening of world-class action, as welterweight contender Carlos Adames will take on savvy veteran Alejandro Barrera in the 10-round co-feature.

Appearing on the undercard will be Irish sensation Michael Conlan in an eight-round featherweight bout against once-beaten Ibon Larrinaga, 2016 U.S. Olympian Mikaela Mayer in a six-round lightweight contest against Baby Nansen, and Brooklyn native Teofimo Lopez against Vitor Freitas in an eight-round lightweight bout.

This is what the fighters had to say.

Jorge Linares

“I am hungry to win and to continue with my reign as world champion. This is a high-level fight and a very important one for my career because I am going to prove that Lomachenko is not an invincible fighter. We will see what he is really made of when he faces me this Saturday. I believe in myself and I know that I will come out with the victory. I am here to win. I did not come here to quit.”

Vasiliy Lomachenko

“I want to put my name in the history of boxing, and this is one of the steps I have to take, to fight in different weight classes, different titles. That’s what will put my name in the history of boxing.”

“I don’t know what Linares will bring. After the fight, I can compare him with Rigondeaux.”

“I already proved where I am, and I plan on being at the top of the sport for a very long time. I do not plan on slowing down.”

“Linares is one of the best fighters in his weight class. I don’t think it’s going to be easy work.”

Carlos Adames

“This Saturday, the fans will all talk about ‘Caballo Bronco’. This will be the first step towards a world championship opportunity and also the first step on my way to becoming the new face of boxing in the Dominican Republic. I have the talent, the mentality and the dedication to represent my country with dignity. That’s why I’m going to give my best and leave everything in the ring to give the fans a good show”

Mikaela Mayer

“I love that Top Rank is putting me on big cards and exposing women’s boxing a bigger audience. There’s definitely an increased interest in women’s boxing, and I am proud to be part of that.”

“Do I want a knockout? Of course. I want the fans to see that women can be in exciting fights and score knockouts.”

“If Nansen wants to come at me, I’m going to be ready for it. I’m ready for anything.”

Michael Conlan

“Madison Square Garden is my home away from home, and I can’t wait to put on a great show for the New York fans. This is going to be a great night of boxing.”

Teofimo Lopez

“This is my third time fighting at Madison Square Garden, and we know what happened last time I fought here. I knocked out the guy {Ronald Rivas} with one shot. One left hook, and he was out.”

“I believe in my God-given talent. Shout out to New York City. I’m from Brooklyn, and I look forward to showing up and feeling the love from my hometown fans.”

“Big things are coming. I love big cards like this. The more people I see out there, the more pumped up I get. Look out for the knockout because it’s coming.

###

Linares vs. Lomachenko and Adames vs. Barrera will be televised live and exclusively at 8:00 p.m. ET on ESPN and ESPN Deportes, and undercard bouts will stream live on ESPN+, available through the ESPN App, beginning at 4:30 p.m. ET.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Golden Boy Promotions, Teiken Promotions, and Madison Square Garden, tickets for the Linares vs. Lomachenko world championship card are ON SALE NOW. Priced at $506, $406, $306, $206, $106, and $56, including facility fees, tickets can be purchased at the Madison Square Garden Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster charge by phone (866-858-0008), and online at MSG.com.

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

Coverage on Bounce begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and also features unbeaten cruiserweight Andrew “The Beast” Tabiti, who participated in Wednesday’s workout, meeting Lateef Kayode for 10 rounds of action.

Tickets for the event, which is being promoted by Mayweather Promotions, begin at $25, are on sale now and will be available at www.samstownlv.com/entertain.

Here is what the participants had to say Wednesday:

ISHE SMITH

“I’ve been in there with some great fighters throughout the year. My mentality is that no fighter is going to beat me who’s been stopped every time he’s stepped up. I have to do whatever I can to make sure that happens.

“This is the first time in my career that I’ve had a strength and conditioning coach for two fights in a row. I feel really good right now. I hate clichés and I hate saying this is the best camp of my life, but I really do feel like this is one of the best camps I’ve had. I felt like that last fight too, but I know I’ll sound like everybody else

“What motivates me is watching guys like LeBron James who have been doing this nearly as long as I have, and they’re still at the top of their game. That kind of longevity is what I strive for and that’s because I live that life inside and outside of the gym.

“I’ve been training for three months for this fight and I just want a fair shake on fight night. I thought the scorecards in the Julian Williams fight were terrible. I can’t control it but it’s definitely something I want to avoid on fight night.

“Nobody has put on for Las Vegas like I have. I’ve done everything in my career the hard way. I took Cornelius Bundrage’s belt in his hometown. I’m not going to be beat on Friday night.

“I’ve been in this game two decades and I’ve seen the highs and the lows. If everything works out, I’ll be victorious on Friday night. I’m ready to go on the road and take on anyone.”

TONY HARRISON

“Every time I step into the ring I’m extremely motivated. I’m fighting to feed my family. I’m from Detroit so we go through wars all the time. I was ready to jump on this fight as soon as they asked me about it.

“This is a fight that will get me back to a world title fight. This can get me right back into a title eliminator. What better place to do it than the boxing capital of the world? Everybody who fights wants to be in the main event fighting in Las Vegas.

“Ishe Smith has been in a lot of tough fights and he’s fought most of the top guys in the division. If I can get him into some danger, I want to see how his will is at that moment. I’m going to push him from round one and I think it makes for a good fight.

“It’s part of my mental game to make him work round after round. If I see him slow down, it will make me push more. I appreciate what he’s done, but I don’t know how much more he has left. I want to be a champion like he was.

“Being the first person to stop Ishe would be an opportunity I have to take. It would make a statement. But if I go the distance, it would answer all of the questions the critics have had about my motor. I’m going to be fresh until the end of this fight.”

ANDREW TABITI

“I’m excited to put on a good show and take care of a solid durable opponent. I know that my time is coming and this another chance to show off my skills.

“Once I fight the top tier cruiserweights, they’re going to see what I’m capable of. I basically used Steve Cunningham’s game plan against him. I’m very adaptable.

“I’m focused on showing a versatile side of my boxing skills. I’m not going straight for the knockout. I want to show people that I have boxing IQ and the ability to knock anyone out in the ring. I want to show both sides of my skill set.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“It’s always important to have great fights like this to Las Vegas. With Ishe Smith being a native it’s even better. This is a good fight that could put Ishe back into the thick of things. People don’t raise their hand to fight Ishe. I think Ishe has a second wind right now and he’s refreshed at this point in his career.

“Ishe doesn’t fight like he’s 39. There isn’t going to be anything that Tony Harrison can bring that Ishe hasn’t seen. Ishe has picked it up and I think the rest of the division knows that. It’s a deep weight class with a lot of possibilities out there. He has the ability to beat anyone out there.

“The future is very bright for Andrew TAbiti. It’s all in his hands. He has all the attributes that you need. He has a good team around him and it’s just a matter of finding ways to help him get to the next level. This is a great opportunity for him to showcase his skills against a very durable, tough guy in Kayode. Tabiti is looking to make a statement to all the other cruiserweights out there. He’s a guy they’re going to have to deal with in the very near future.”

Premier Boxing Champions on Bounce will also be available to be streamed live via Bounce’s new subscription-video-on-demand service Brown Sugar, which features an extensive and one-of-a-kind library of iconic black movies as well as Bounce original programming and series. Brown Sugar is available on Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Channels, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Kindle, Android and Apple smartphones and tablets and web browsers via BrownSugar.com. Brown Sugar also has Google Chromecast capabilities which allow video to play on televisions directly from mobile devices and tablets for consumers with Android and iOS devices. There is a free initial trial period for subscribers with a retail price of $3.99/month thereafter.

Bounce (@bouncetv) is the fastest-growing African-American network on television and airs on the broadcast signals of local television stations and corresponding cable carriage. The network features a programming mix of original and off-network series, theatrical motion pictures, specials, live sports and more. Bounce has grown to be available in 99 million homes across the United States and 95% of all African-American television homes. Visit BounceTV.com for more information.

Nutley, N.J. (May 9, 2018) – Super Bantamweight prospect Adam Lopez has reunited with his former trainer for his eight-round matchup with undefeated Arnold Khegai this Friday on ShoBox: The New Generation in the opening bout of a four-fight SHOWTIME telecast (10 p.m. ET/PT) from 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

Lopez (16-2-2, 8 KOs) is back under the tutelage of former world champion Carlos “Famoso” Hernandez, returning to his hometown of San Antonio after completing his previous two camps in New Jersey.

“This fight is do or die,” Lopez said. “In the situation I am in now, this could make or break my career. Everything is really good and I’m happy to be back with Carlos Hernandez. Once I got back with him, a lot of what we worked on before is coming back. The sport is repetitive, and I have been sparring with aggressive guys.”

In Khegai (11-0-1, 8 KOs), Lopez is facing a tough and hard-nosed fighter from Ukraine. Lopez has done extensive scouting on his adversary, who will be making his American debut.

“I have seen just about all of his fights, and he is definitely aggressive,” Lopez said. “I know he is a former kickboxer. He is a rugged guy, but I am a veteran, who has faced many styles, so I am ready for whatever he will bring on Friday.”

Lopez has become a favorite on ShoBox and Friday is his record seventh appearance on the prospect developmental series. He is committed and ready to seize this opportunity against an undefeated prospect.

“I need to take advantage of this opportunity,” Lopez said. “I think I have always performed well on ShoBox, and I have gained a lot of fans because I have been on a handful of times. Friday, I want to put on a great show, and then get in the mix with all of the top 122-pound fighters. I am recently married, and on Friday night, it will prove to be my time.”

“Adam knows that this is a big opportunity,” said GH3 Promotions CEO, Vito Mielnicki. “Adam has shown his willingness to take on all comers, and Friday will be no different. For him to be making his seventh ShoBox appearance, shows what kind of fighter he is.”

Lopez is promoted by GH3 Promotions.

Queens, N.Y. (May 9, 2018) – Ronson Frank’s Uprising Promotions will be bringing a loaded fight card to Club Amazura when it makes a long-awaited return to New York on Friday, May 18. Headlined by a bantamweight attraction that features Elton Dharry (22-5-1, 14 KOs) against Oscar Mojica (11-4, 1 KO), this entertaining night of boxing will be presented by Uprising Promotions in association with New Mexican Promotions.

“We are really pleased to be back home in New York,” said Ronson Frank, President of Uprising Promotions. “This card will be bringing a little bit of everything. As most people already know, we do not show bias at Uprising Promotions. Our focus is giving shots to guys who may not get the same opportunity on other cards. Tickets for this show are moving well, and we encourage all boxing fans to come out so we can continue to provide these kind of opportunities for fighters in the area.”

In the feature attraction, Brooklyn bantamweight Elton Dharry (22-5-1, 14 KOs) makes his return to the ring, taking on Oscar Mojica (11-4, 1 KO) of Texas. After starting his professional career with a 3-5-1 record over his first nine bouts, Dharry has rattled off 19 consecutive wins and has remained unbeaten for nearly nine years. Mojica will most definitely be coming to win when he meets Dharry on May 18, which will be his second outing of 2018. Over the course of his 15-bout career, the Dallas native has never been stopped and has faced a total of eight undefeated opponents.

Undefeated super bantamweight Ariel Lopez (8-0, 6 KOs) will return to action on the May 18 card, taking on five-bout veteran Edson Eduardo Neri. A native of Puebla, Mexico, the hard-hitting Lopez will be looking to keep his perfect record intact as he enters the ring for the first time in 2018. This bout also marks the second time that he has competed on an Uprising Promotions show.

Former International WBF World Super Featherweight and interim IBA World Super Featherweight titleholder Ronica Jeffrey (15-1, 1 KO) will end a two-year absence from the ring when she returns on May 18. A highly-popular and well-achieved Brooklyn native, Jeffrey last fought in 2016 when she traveled to New Zealand and defeated Gentiane Lupi for the vacant WBC Silver Female Featherweight Championship. Her opponent will be Jasmine Clarkson, the sister of Uprising Promotions light heavyweight Samuel Clarkson. A hard-nosed competitor who is known to take on any opposition, the Texas native has never been afraid to battle fan favorites on their home soil.

Making his pro debut on May 18 will be highly accomplished Uzbek amateur boxer Elnur Abduraimov, who most recently won a gold medal at the 2017 Asian Amateur Boxing Championships. He also has a 2015 World Championships and Asian Championships bronze medal on his resume, along with an incredible list of further amateur accolades. The opponent for Abduraimov will be named in the coming week.

In the middleweight division, undefeated Marquis Moore (6-0, 4 KOs) will put his perfect record on the line against Bronx native Troy Artis, and Queens resident Armin Mrkanovic (7-3, 3 KOs) will face 13-fight veteran Nicholas Lavin in a cruiserweight attraction.

In super featherweight action, Harrison Barba will return to the ring when he meets Dakota Lester in a four-frame bout, while Paul Anthony takes on Tyren Hamilton in a scheduled four-rounder.

Club Amazura is located at 91-12 144th Place in Jamaica, Queens. Sponsorship opportunities for this exciting night are available now for any companies or local businesses who are interested in showcasing themselves. To inquire about becoming a sponsor, call (516) 939-7861.

This Uprising Promotions card will continue the initiative to KO Autism, with proceeds from the night getting donated to The School For Language and Communication Development (SLCD) in Glen Cove, New York. For ticket information, call us today at (516) 939-7861.

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

AGUASCALIENTES, MX (May 9, 2018) – Unbeaten super-flyweight, Cristina Mora (7-0-2, 4 KOs), who is promoted by Sugar Promotions and managed by Prince Ranch Boxing, is looking for an unwarranted release of her promotional and managerial agreements. Mora, the disgruntled female boxer, has been treated with the utmost respect by her promoter and manager, as both have delivered and the demands in their respective contracts.

“Cristina Mora is showing much disrespect to me, wanting to get a release from her promotional contract,” said Oscar Vazquez, CEO of Sugar Promotions. “I’ve treated her with nothing but respect and have delivered on all promises. I have a bonded contract with her, and she knows it. Legal action will be taken if anyone tries to sign her. This is the ugly side of the sport, but I’ve done nothing wrong, and my lawyers are ready to strike if need be.”

“It’s very disappointing knowing that Mora is not happy with her current situation,” said Greg Hannley, CEO of Prince Ranch Boxing. “I’ve been giving her a monthly stipend and had some really good fights lined up for her in her hometown of Aguascalientes, Mexico. Whoever is whispering in her ear, is giving her the wrong advice. I hope she comes to her senses and commits to her part of our agreement.”

HBO Sports presents another WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING card from the Empire State, this time visiting Verona, for SADAM ALI VS. JAIME MUNGUIA AND REY VARGAS VS. AZAT HOVHANNISYAN, to be seen SATURDAY, MAY 12 at 10:00 p.m. (live ET/tape-delayed PT) from Turning Stone Resort Casino, exclusively on HBO. The HBO Sports team will call the action, which will be available in HDTV, closed-captioned for the hearing-impaired and presented in Spanish on HBO Latino.

The main event is a junior middleweight title showdown, as Brooklyn’s Sadam Ali (26-1, 14 KOs) defends his crown against rising challenger Jaime Munguia (28-0, 24 KOs) from Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico, in a scheduled 12-round bout. The 29-year-old Ali played spoiler at boxing legend Miguel Cotto’s retirement fight last December, and now looks to build his own legacy.

Munguia jumped at the chance to compete for a 154-pound title belt when Liam Smith withdrew due to illness. Though just 21, the undefeated fighter has started to make noise in the deep, talented junior middleweight division.

The opening bout features undefeated Rey Vargas (31-0, 22 KOs) from Otumba, Mexico taking on Azat Hovhannisyan (14-2, 11 KOs) from Yerevan, Armenia, now living in Los Angeles, in a scheduled 12-round super bantamweight title fight.

The undefeated Vargas boasts a 71% knockout-to-win ratio and will be making the third defense of his 122-pound belt. He recorded three wins in 2017, most recently besting the previously undefeated Oscar Negrete on HBO. Hoyhannisyan, who has a 70% knockout-to-win ratio, is on an eight-bout winning streak after a majority decision loss in 2014; his only other loss came in his four-round pro debut in 2011. Known as “Crazy A,” he won all three of his bouts last year, and scored a sixth-round knockout of Ronny Rios on March 9.

Follow HBO boxing news at hbo.com/boxing, on Facebook at facebook.com/hboboxing and on Twitter at twitter.com/hboboxing.

All HBO boxing events are presented in HDTV. HBO viewers must have access to the HBO HDTV channel to watch HBO programming in high definition.

The executive producer of HBO Sports is Rick Bernstein; producer, Thomas Odelfelt; director, Johnathan Evans.

® WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING is a registered service mark of Home Box Office, Inc.

“After a fantastic first season with Super Middleweight and Cruiserweight, we have decided that bigger is better. So we are going out with three divisions in our second season,” said Comosa’s Chief Boxing Officer, Kalle Sauerland.

“We are delighted to have three champions agreed to go into the Bantamweight tournament.”

“Burnett, Rodriguez and Tete represent three continents, they represent what the World Boxing Super Series is all about and we cannot wait to see these amazing athletes compete for the Muhammad Ali Trophy.“

A sensational line-up is in the making for Season 2 of the World Boxing Super Series with three world champions entering the Bantamweight edition of the quest for the Muhammad Ali Trophy, The Greatest Prize in Boxing.

The ingredients for epic battles are in the mix: ’O’s will go, titles will be unified and titles lost as Ryan Burnett, Emmanuel Rodriguez and Zolani Tete join the revolutionary bracket-style elimination tournament.

For 25-year-old Ryan Burnett (19-0, 9 KOs) from Belfast, Northern Ireland, the holder of the WBA Super World Bantamweight Title, the tournament fits his dreams perfectly.

“I have always wanted to be a world champion and to unify the titles against the best opposition out there. Now the World Boxing Super Series allows me to continue my dream against the other champions in the bantamweight division.”

Said 25-year-old IBF World Bantamweight Champion Emmanuel Rodriguez (18-0-12 KOs) from Manati, Puerto Rico:

“I am very happy to be in the tournament. It is great to be able to fight against two other world champions and get the chance to unify the belts. I will do my best to win the tournament.”

Said 30-year-old WBO World Bantamweight Champion Zolani Tete (27-3, 21 KOs) from Eastern Cape, South Africa:

“I would like to thank the World Boxing Super Series for the opportunity, I am very humbled and honoured to enter the tournament. This is the opportunity I have been looking for; to show that I am the best in my division.”

Five fighters remain to be revealed to complete the Bantamweight cast. Further details on Season 2, featuring three weight classes, and the finals of Season 1, will be announced over the next weeks.

Bensalem, PA — Joe Hand Promotions returns to Parx Casino® for Joe Hand’s Xcite Fight Night 2 at the Xcite Center on Friday, June 29. The event will once again highlight Philadelphia-area fighters looking to prove they have what it takes to move to the next level.

The same team behind the thrilling, sold-out night in March is together for this event. Promoter Joe Hand Sr. is working with Hall of Fame matchmaker J Russell Peltz to ensure entertaining fights and competitive matchups. Mixed in with the up-and-coming fighters are local veterans excited to share the Parx Casino® experience with their fans.

“After having such a successful inaugural event at Parx Casino®, we are thrilled to be returning so soon,” Joe Hand Sr. said. “Our partnership with the casino has given us the platform to put on extraordinary events and create memorable experiences for our fans.”

The main event and full card, which will consist of a minimum of eight fights, will be announced shortly. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with first fight at 7:30. This event is only for adults age 21 and older.

Tickets priced at $50, $75, and $100 are on sale online at www.parxcasino.com.They can also be purchased by phone through Joe Hand Promotions (215-364-9000) and the Hold My Ticket Call Center at (1-877-466-3404).

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.

Undefeated Heavyweight prospect Nathan Gorman (12-0, 10 KO’s) collides with Dublin’s Sean Turner (12-2, 8 KO’s) at the Manchester Arena on June 9.

The exciting match-up lands on the same card that features the return of former Heavyweight World Champion Tyson Fury and the Vacant WBO Super-Lightweight World Title showdown between Manchester’s Terry Flanagan and American Maurice Hooker.

Ricky Hatton-trained Gorman is quickly making a name for himself as one the of the Heavyweight division’s hottest properties and will be aiming to despatch Turner in style on June 9.

“This is another stepping stone for me on my way to the top of the Heavyweight division,” said Gorman. “I can’t see Sean troubling me in any way, shape or form. That being said, I think he will come and have a go, that’s the type of man he is.

“He has a decent winning record and took Filip Hrgovic the distance so he must have a bit about him. I’m buzzing to be involved in the big man’s highly-anticipated comeback fight. I’ve been sparring him and he’s looking really well, there’s no better sparring in the World. I can’t wait to see his rise to the top of the division!”

“The difference between Nathan Gorman and myself is that he’s more of a boxer,” said Turner. “He’s got fast hands and fast feet. I come in and take people’s heads off and knock them cold.

“I’m more aggressive and ruthless. I’ve had more fights. I’m going to break his heart on the night.

“My chin is 10 out of 10. I’ve been in with Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua and the rest of the best in the World. I’ve a granite chin. You can hit me all day and I’ll never go down.”

Further exciting undercard additions will be announced in the coming days.

Tickets for Gorman v Turner 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.

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (Wednesday, May 9th, 2018) — Juiseppe Cusumano enters Friday’s fight at Twin River Casino riding an impressive, 12-fight win streak with 10 of those wins coming by knockout, including five in a row in either the first or second round.

The scary part? He hasn’t even reached his peak yet.

“I haven’t hit anybody really good yet! That’s why they all fall asleep standing up,” lamented Cusumano, who returns to the ring Friday, May 18th, 2018 to face Californian Bernardo Marquez (8-3-1, 5 KOs) in a six-round co-feature bout on the CES Boxing’s upcoming fight card.

“I haven’t shown everyone what I’ve really got yet.”

Tickets are priced at $47.00, $102.00, $127.00 (VIP) and $152.00 (VIP) and can be purchased online at www.cesboxing.com, www.twinriver.com or www.ticketmaster.com, by phone at 401-724-2253/2254 or at the Twin River Casino Players Club. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

The event begins with preliminary bouts at 7 p.m. ET with the main card streaming on Facebook via FIGHTNIGHT LIVE beginning at 8.

Cusumano’s confidence is at an all-time high. Why wouldn’t it be? He’s a long way from the days of poor management, depression and alcoholism derailing his promising career and is now fighting under the watchful guidance of CES Boxing president Jimmy Burchfield Sr., who has taken Cusumano (14-1, 12 KOs) under his wing and molded him into a household name in the northeast.

The 6-foot-4 heavyweight from Sicily has blazed a remarkable trail of destruction since linking up with Burchfield, culminating in his most impressive win to date, a first-round knockout in February over Fred Latham, who entered the bout 9-1-2. That was supposed to be the proverbial “test,” or “step-up fight,” as it’s more commonly known in the business, but Cusumano instead wasted no time bludgeoning Latham a non-stop flurry of shots, forcing referee Steve Smoger to stop the bout at the 2:33 mark.

While Cusumano admits he’d like to get a few competitive rounds Friday night, he’s not exactly here to make a long night of it either.

“I grew up watching Mike Tyson and Rocky Marciano,” Cusumano said. “There were some hard times I went through in my career that kept me out of the game, and I’m so excited to be back, so when I get in there I like to explode.”

Cusumano, who turned 30 on Monday, is just entering his prime and the time is now to make a run to the top in what has become a competitive, wide-open heavyweight division. It’d be easy to lament the missed opportunities due to Cusumano’s two-year layoff between 2014 and 2016, but boxing’s newest rising star is too busy working day in, day out improving his craft. Each fight is a lesson learned, and he continues to pass each test with flying colors.

“Nowadays, I’m getting in better shape, working out after each fight, and just getting better and better. I feel like I’m getting it all back from when I was in my early 20s,” Cusumano said. “Except now I’m more mature. I actually believe it was God’s plan to let me mature and grow.”

The 6-2 southpaw Marquez bounced back from a pair of losses in 2016 with wins in two of his last three fights and figures to provide more resistance than Latham, Matt McKinney, Robert Dunton or any of Cusumano’s most recent victims. Then again, the plan is to finish strong and finish early, even with the temptation to squeeze in a few much-needed rounds.

“Bernardo, he’s going to use that stiff jab, so I’m going to let him come to me,” Cusumano said. “It looks like he likes to jump into flurries, so I’m going to let him walk into a big counter and he’ll go to sleep, too. This guy is in for it.

“I’m a mind-reader,” Cusumano continued. “I like to study. I’m really good at looking at people and knowing what they’re thinking. That helps me out a lot. If you saw the fight with Matt McKinney, I used my counters. Latham, I saw when [Junior Fa] laid him out in the first round. It usually takes him two rounds to get warmed up. Did I let him get going? No, I jumped on his ass. I’m just using my mind in there.”

The film study, the technique and the conditioning is all part of Cusumano’s plan to take advantage of his new lease on life. Not many fighters get a second chance when they hit a bump in the road, but Cusumano is soaking in all the knowledge of wisdom from training and sparring partners and his coach, Marcus Luck, whom he credits as the only who believed in him when he hit rock bottom nearly three years ago.

It’s been a remarkable joyride since the hard-hitting heavyweight joined the CES Boxing dynasty in 2017 and no one has been able to stop the momentum yet. Cusumano is as confident as ever heading into what figures to be his greatest challenge May 11th at Twin River. Then again, they said that about the last opponent, too.

“I see a little weakness in Bernardo,” Cusumano said. “He’s not going to be able to trade with me because of my power and he won’t be able to push me back because of my power. What will he do? He’s going to run. But I’m good at attacking and cutting off the ring and keeping the pressure on. He’s going to fold.”

Also on the May 11th card, Rhode Island’s Rich Gingras (15-5-1, 9 KOs) fights for the first time since 2015 when he battles Atlantic City’s Antowyan Aikens (12-4-1, 1 KO) in a six-round super middleweight bout. In addition, the May 11th extravaganza features a rematch between female welterweights Aleksandra Magdziak Lopes (18-4-3, 1 KO) of Marshfield, Mass., and Ontario’s Natasha Spence (8-3-2, 6 KOs), scheduled for six rounds. The two fought to a draw in December.

Undefeated super lightweight Anthony Marsella Jr. (8-0, 4 KOs) of Providence returns in his toughest to date, a six-round showdown against Arlington, Wash., native Ricardo Maldonado (8-7-1, 1 KO), and featherweight Ricky Delossantos (4-0, 1 KO) of Pawtucket, R.I., puts his undefeated record on the line against Maryland’s James Early (3-2) in a four-round bout.

Also on the main card, unbeaten Worcester, Mass., native Jamaine Ortiz (8-0, 4 KOs) faces the dangerous Tyrone Luckey (9-8-3, 7 KOs) of Neptune, N.J., in a six-round lightweight bout and regional rivals Marqus Bates (3-2, 2 KOs) of Taunton, Mass., and Mohamad Allam (3-2, 1 KO) of Holyoke, Mass., battle one another in a six-round bout.

Johnston, R.I. super lightweight Nicky DeQuattro (3-0, 1 KO) returns to Twin River to face Andy Aiello (0-1) of Bridgewater, Mass., in a four-round bout while cruiserweights Jake Paradise (0-1) of Worcester and Leandro Silva (0-1) of Sao Paolo, Brazil each search for their first career win when they face one another in a four-round preliminary bout. Derrick Whitley (3-0) of Springfield, Mass., makes his Rhode Island debut in a separate four-round welterweight bout.

Visit www.cesboxing.com, www.twitter.com/cesboxing or www.facebook.com/cesboxingfor more information, or follow CES Boxing on Instagram at @CESBOXING.

New York, New York, May 8, 2018

In the main event of Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing “SLUGFEST at the SUN” on June 30th, JOE “THE BEAST” SMITH JR. (23-2 19KO’s) will make his extremely anticipated return to the ring at the Mohegan Sun Arena.

Embracing the moniker the “Common Man,” Local 66 Laborers Construction Union worker, Smith Jr., exploded onto the national boxing scene beginning in 2016. Backed by his union brothers, Smith Jr. would wield a sledgehammer by day and lace up his gloves to train by night. His work ethic and humble personality gravitated fans towards him, as he quickly became the national champion of the working man.

2016 was truly the year of “THE BEAST,” as Smith Jr. took the boxing world by storm. In June, Smith Jr. marched into Chicago, the hometown of, at the time, #2 world rated light heavyweight contender ANDRZEJ FONFARA (then 28-4 16KO’s). Pre-fight numbers had Smith Jr. as a 16-1 underdog against the mighty Pole. However, just 1:57 into the first round Smith Jr. threw a right hand that caught everyone in the IUC Pavilion by surprise, dropping Fonfara. Smelling blood in the water, Smith Jr. did not give Fonfara any time to breath, smothering him with a flurry of punches, dropping him for the second time in just over 2 minutes, earning the WBC International Light Heavyweight title, putting his name on the map in the stacked division.

Fast forward to December of 2016, and “THE BEAST” was at it again, this time at the Fabulous Forum in California, on HBO, taking on boxing legend and former world champion, in his final fight, BERNARD “THE EXECUTIONER” HOPKINS (then 55-7 32KO’s). At the final press conference, Hopkins (then 55-7 32KO’s) promised that he would give Smith Jr. the boxing lesson he needed. However the next night, Hopkins found himself staring at the ceiling of the Forum, as he had been viciously beaten out of the ring with a five punch combination late in the 8thof the scheduled 10 rounds. Smith Jr. became the first ever boxer to knock out the legend Bernard Hopkins.

In his return to The Forum in July of 2017, Smith Jr. took on contender SULLIVAN BARRERA (then 19-1 14KO’s). After a brutal right hand that hit Barrera flush on the forehead, sending him to the canvas, Smith Jr. had his jaw broken late in the first round. “THE BEAST” went on to grit through the full fight (10 rds) to the judge’s decision, broken jaw and all, impressing fans yet again, this time for his will and determination.

After having his jaw wired shut for over six months, on June 30th, Joe Smith Jr. returns to the ring at the historic Mohegan Sun Arena, focused on climbing the ladder, back to Light Heavyweight supremacy.

JOE SMITH JR. had this to say about his return, “I cannot wait to get back in the ring on June 30th. I have been looking forward to this day since I was told I needed surgery. I plan on showing why I am still one of the best in the Light Heavyweight division.”

JOE DEGUARDIA, CEO and President of Star Boxing said this, “Joe Smith Jr. turned the boxing world on its head in his wins against Fonfara and Hopkins. I believe he is the hardest hitting light heavyweight, and he proves it every time he is in the ring. I am very excited to have him back on June 30th at the beautiful Mohegan Sun Arena.”
Get your tickets to JUNE 30th, #SLUGFESTattheSUN live from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, CT.
Tickets start at JUST $30.
BUY TICKETS HERE!
INFO:
“SLUGFEST at the SUN”: THE RETURN OF JOE SMITH JR.
After eleven months out of the ring due to a broken jaw, “THE BEAST” Joe Smith Jr. returns in a big way, at the beautiful Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut. After coming off a stellar KO win on NBC against Andrzej Fonfara, and defeating the legend Bernard Hopkins on HBO, Smith Jr. has his eyes set on landing in the win column in his first bout of 2018.
FACTS:
“SLUGFEST at the SUN” is presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing. The event takes place Saturday, June 30th at Mohegan Sun, in Uncasville, CT.

Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing “SLUGFEST at the SUN” series is the a premier professional boxing experience in Connecticut. Live from the beautiful Mohegan Sun Arena, “SLUGFEST at the SUN” has seen some of the best and brightest in boxing. This includes, two-time world champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade and world title challenger Delvin Rodriguez, amongst many others.

Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame inductee, Joe DeGuardia, has consistently given the boxing fans of Connecticut, world class fights, right in their own backyard. “SLUGFEST at the SUN” also gives the north east’s rising boxing stars an avenue to world title contention. From world title fights, to world class boxing skill, Mohegan Sun has seen it all, delivered by Star Boxing.

The “SLUGFEST at the SUN” series offers an affordable, fan friendly action packed, entertaining night out, that is guaranteed to have you on your feet from the opening bell.

On June 30th, Star Boxing plans to start your summer off right, with yet another thrilling “SLUGFEST at the SUN.”
MEDIA:
SLUGFEST AT THE SUN: THE RETURN OF JOE SMITH JR.

SLUGFEST AT THE SUN: THE RETURN OF JOE SMITH JR.
PREVIOUS RELEASES
June 30th Fight Announcement
TICKETS:
Tickets for the live event start at $30 and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com by clicking HERE or by going to www.StarBoxing.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the Mohegan Sun Box Office at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, CT.
MOHEGAN SUN:
Mohegan Sun Arena is now ranked consistently among the top venues in the world according to Billboard Magazine, Pollstar and Venues Today. It has won “Casino of The Year” at the Country Music Awards in 2008 & 2010 and in 2013, was voted “Arena of The Year” at the G2E Global Gaming Conference in Las Vegas. Mohegan Sun Arena was also ranked among the top 10 arena venues in the nation for 2014, regardless of size. In 2015, Mohegan Sun took home the IEBA award for “Casino of the Year.” Mohegan Sun also won “Casino of the Year” in 2 categories at the 2013 & 2016 Academy of Country Music Awards. For more information on concerts and other great events, visit Mohegan Sun. For information on this week’s schedule, call the Entertainment and Special Events hotline at 1.888.226.7711, ext. 27163.

LONDON (9 May, 2018) – Pound-for-pound ace Vasyl Lomachenko says he accepted the challenge to face lightweight king Jorge Linares in “less than two seconds”.

Former two-weight world champion Lomachenko will take on WBA and Ring Magazine lightweight world champion Linares in one of boxing’s most eagerly anticipated clashes of the year this Saturday night, live and exclusive on BoxNation.

Taking place at the iconic Madison Square Garden, the 30-year-old Ukrainian will be moving up to lightweight and says the decision to take on the much respected Linares came very easy for him.

“I wanted to go up to the next weight category, 135 pounds, and fight only champions. Jorge Linares was available for this moment. That’s why I wanted a fight with him. I was asked if I wanted to fight Linares. It took me less than two seconds to accept the challenge,” said Lomachenko.

“For me, it’s a big challenge because before this fight, I fought against guys who were the same size or a little bit smaller than me. Now, I want to feel the way [Guillermo] Rigondeaux felt when he fought me.

“He was smaller than I at that point. I am going to be smaller than my opponents now. I want to show people it’s not a big problem, that five pounds is not too big of a difference,” he said.

Following a glittering amateur career, winning two consecutive Olympic gold medals along the way, Lomachenko will now be looking to become a three-weight world champion this weekend.

Despite having only 11 fights as a professional his superior talent has shone through, often forcing his big-talking opponents to quit on their stools.

The experienced Linares, who has a record of 44 wins with 27 KOs and just 3 defeats, has also tried to get under his opponents skin, with Lomachenko calling on him to show up at the press conference following the fight, as looks to continue building his legacy.

“I like it [his trash talking]. Before the fight, all boxers talk trash, but after the fight, nobody comes to the press conference. After this fight, I want to see Jorge Linares at the press conference, and I want to hear what he has to say,” Lomachenko said.

“This fight is the next step in my boxing history. We’re talking about my career. I built a ladder, and when I finish my boxing career, I want my ladder to be very strong and long,” he said.

Lomachenko v Linares will be live and exclusive on BoxNation from Saturday midnight.

Sky Customer Free Registration Offer: BoxNation subscription is £12 per month with free registration (normally £8) for Sky TV subscribers using offer code: CHAMPIONS.

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.

Available on selected internet-connected Freeview products only, subject to coverage. Visit freeview.co.uk/availability.

BoxNation is also available to commercial premises (inc. pubs, clubs and casino’s) in the UK and Ireland, for more information on a commercial subscription please call 0844 842 7700.

For more information visit www.boxnation.com

*Plus £8 registration fee for Sky TV customers

Jack Catterall faces France’s Mohamed Kani for the Vacant WBO Intercontinental Super-Lightweight title at Elland Road on May 19, live on BT Sport and BoxNation.

The former British Champion made a successful start to life under new trainer Jamie Moore in March, stopping Kevin McCauley inside the opening round at Preston’s Guild Hall.

‘El Gato’ faces stiffer competition in Kani (14-1) and knows that he must win convincingly if he is to stay in line to face the winner of the WBO Super-Lightweight clash between stablemate Terry Flanagan and Maurice Hooker.

“I want to be involved in big fights and I’m within touching distance of them,” said Catterall. “I need to stay switched on and focused for the task at hand. Mohamed has got a decent record and I won’t be overlooking him.

“The Intercontinental belt gives me a strong ranking with the WBO and puts me in line to face the winner of Flanagan v Hooker. It’s an exciting time to be involved in the 140lbs division and I’m determined to prove that I’m the best out there.”

Main event on a huge evening of boxing in Leeds sees IBF Featherweight World Champion Lee Selby defend his belt against bitter rival Josh Warrington; Nicola Adams OBE faces three-time World Title Challenger Soledad Del Valle Frias and undefeated Super-Welterweight rivals Darren Tetley and Mason Cartwright clash for the Vacant WBO European title;

Highly-ranked Hackney Super-Lightweight Ohara Davies takes on Frenchman Christopher Sebire on his highly-anticipated return; undefeated Leicester Super-Featherweight talent Lyon Woodstock; hard-hitting Oldham Middleweight Mark Heffron; Doncaster Featherweight Reece Mould; popular Leeds Bantamweight Jack Bateson and Olympic Silver Medallist Fred Evans complete an action-packed card.

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.

Nicola Adams OBE will face three-time World Title challenger Soledad del Valle Frias on the undercard of the IBF Featherweight World Title showdown between Lee Selby and Josh Warrington at Elland Road on May 19, live on BT Sport and BoxNation.

British hero Adams ended 2017 in style with a third round stoppage win over Soledad Macedo as she improved her unbeaten record to 3-0 on the undercard of Billy Joe Saunders’ successful World Title defence against David Lemieux in Canada.

Frias, 34, failed in her most recent challenge for a World Title when she fought WBA Light Flyweight Champion Yesica Yolanda Bopp in her homeland of Argentina. She has also challenged for the WBO World Bantamweight title and the IBF World Flyweight title.

“This is another step up for me on my journey to a professional World Title,” said Adams. “My camp has gone perfectly and I can’t wait to fight at a football stadium for the first time in my career.

“The atmosphere is going to be incredible and I want to produce a performance that matches it. This is going to be a massive event for the city of Leeds and all of Yorkshire and I can’t wait to be part of it.”

Main event on a huge evening of boxing in Leeds sees IBF Featherweight World Champion Lee Selby defend his belt against bitter rival Josh Warrington; Chorley Super-Lightweight Jack Catterall fights for the Vacant WBO Intercontinental title and undefeated Super-Welterweight rivals Darren Tetley and Mason Cartwright clash for the Vacant WBO European title;

Highly-ranked Hackney Super-Lightweight Ohara Davies takes on Frenchman Christopher Sebire on his highly-anticipated return; undefeated Leicester Super-Featherweight talent Lyon Woodstock; hard-hitting Oldham Middleweight Mark Heffron; Doncaster Featherweight Reece Mould; popular Leeds Bantamweight Jack Bateson and Olympic Silver Medallist Fred Evans complete an action-packed card.

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.

FORMER General Santos City native Nonito Donaire Sr. was tapped to
lend his expertise and beef up Manny Pacquiao’s think-tank in
preparation for the Filipino’s title bid against Lucas Matthysse on
July 15 at the Axiata Arena in Malaysia.

A week after opening training camp, Pacquiao added Donaire to help out
in plotting tactical plans against Matthysse, the reigning WBA
welterweight champion from Argentina.

“Donaire will serve as one of the assistant coaches,” said Pacquiao,
who did two trial rounds with the mitts with the father of former
world champion Nonito Donaire (Junior). It was Donaire Sr. who trained
and honed his son, who later won multiple former world championships
in three weight divisions.

“So far, so good. I am happy with my current team,” said Pacquiao, who
took two days off on Saturday and Sunday to rest and relax, coming off
a controversial loss last year in Australia against local brawler Jeff
Horn.

Pacquiao went scuba diving Sunday and was refreshed to do his road
work the morning after.

Pacquiao is trying to have an all-Filipino line-up in his bid to win
his 11th world title against a formidable opponent who has knocked out
36 of his 39 wins or a whopping 92 percent ratio. Matthysse has only
lost four times in his career.

Another former Philippine national team coach based in the US was
scheduled to join Pacquiao’s coaching staff should he pass the
standards set by the Filipino champion.

Long time friend and confidant Buboy Fernandez would still act as head
coach along with assistant trainer Raides “Nonoy” Neri.

Pacquiao is still about to name another team member soon, the person
who will help him in his strength and conditioning, to complete the
cast.

LOS ANGELES (May 8, 2018) – Unbeaten super welterweight world champion Jermell Charlo and former world champion Austin Trout went face-to-face Tuesday as they met with media in Los Angeles to discuss their showdown 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 is headlined by a rematch between featherweight world champions and Southern California rivals Leo Santa Cruz and Abner Mares.

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.

Here is what the participants had to say Tuesday at Palm Restaurant Downtown Los Angeles:

JERMELL CHARLO

“Me and my brother talk the talk and we walk the walk. From this point on in our careers, we’re going full force and it’s going to be nothing but knockouts.

“Every fight in my life is important because the man standing across from me is there to beat me. Kobe Bryant used to talk about how he knew everyone was going to come at him extra hard whether it was practice or a game, because of who he was and the status he had. I know that I can’t take anyone lightly.

“I’m an animal. I love to train. I’m right on weight and really happy about how I feel. I’m in dog shape. I’m going to show everyone on June 9 what’s supposed to happen. You all know what to expect.

“Our careers and our records are growing and you’re getting to see more of the Charlos. We’re jolts of lightning for this sport. We’re giving people real problems. We just get in there and do what we do.

“We’re ready to keep putting on shows for everyone. My brother just did his thing in Brooklyn and now we’re taking it to the West Coast. I love Los Angeles. I live here and I love training here. Me and Jermall both have knockouts at STAPLES Center and we’re going to turn it out on June 9.

“I know that I have to get in there, put my mind to it and do what I have to do. It’s his job to beat me and I’m preparing to stop him. The ‘Charlo Show’ is going to keep going. I’m not worried about Trout’s fight with my brother. Every fight we’ve been growing and changing.

“I didn’t have to go through what Trout had to in his last big fight against Hurd. I’m the fresher younger fighter. I don’t take away anything from what he’s done in his career, but I have my own career and legacy and he’s standing in my way.

“Me and my brother are a force to be reckoned with. We train super hard. I’m not leaving that hard work in camp, I’m taking it to the fight.”

AUSTIN TROUT

“We’re going out there to steal the show. Which will be hard to do because the main event is a barnburner. But I just hope they’re not sleeping on me, because they’ve awoken a sleeping giant. I’ve been busy and active so I feel like I’m very dangerous right now.

“I respect Charlo because he didn’t have to take this fight. Now it’s time to get it on. When I fought his brother, I remember people counted me out and said history had been made before I even stepped into the ring. I’m here again to try to stop the ‘Charlo Show’ and start the ‘Trout Show.'”

“I’m very excited about this fight. I love fighting in Los Angeles. I’m undefeated here and I plan to remain undefeated here. Being at STAPLES Center is a great honor. I’m a big basketball fan so I know what that building means.

“The Charlos act similar, but they’re not the same and they definitely don’t fight the same. I think the difference in this fight is that I’ve been busier leading up to it. I just fought in February so my skills were more refined coming into this camp.

“We started camp already 50 percent of the way there because of my recent activity and it’s allowed me to work even more on game plan. We’re going to be prepared for everything he has. It’s going to add up to my victory.

“My skills are going to be sharper than fans are used to seeing in recent years. The dog in me is fully ready to go. I’m starving. I feel like I’m young and this is my opportunity to prove I’m still the king of this division.

“I’m just using the past disappoints as motivation. Including the fight against Jermall. That’s all the fuel that I need.

“On June 9 you can expect to see my hand raised. It’s not going to be easy. It’s going to be a dog fight. It’s going to be a great fight and I’m going to come out on top. That belt is going to look on me.”

RICHARD SCHAEFER, Chairman & CEO of Ringstar Sports

“The only way to make a card like this bigger than it already was with Santa Cruz vs. Mares 2, was to add a world title fight like this with two incredibly talented fighters. Austin Trout is a true champion outside of the ring and inside the ring and he knows what a win over Jermell Charlo would do for his career. He’ll be aided by having a man in his corner in Barry Hunter who always seems to come up with the right game plan.

“There are a lot of great fighters with talent and skill, but you can’t tell me five fighters who can combine those skills with the charisma and personality that the Charlo twins have. The last time I saw crowds of reporters engaged with fighters like this was with Floyd Mayweather. But these guys aren’t following in anyone’s footsteps, they’re doing it their way and they’re doing an absolutely amazing job.

“The Charlo twins are pound-for-pound one and two as having the overall package of skill and charisma. You can’t teach that. You either have it or you don’t.

“The Charlos go into every fight with a target on their back. They know their opponent will be in their best shape possible. That is exactly the personality of Austin Trout and what makes him such a dangerous opponent who has years of experience in big fights to fall back on. Jermell knows that and he will be ready. I know these guys can’t wait to face each other on June 9.”

# # #

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.

ORANGE, Calif. (May 8, 2018) – Undefeated welterweight contender Roberto Arriaza (16-0, 13 KOs) looks to strengthen his case for a world title shot when he defends the WBO Intercontinental Title against Venezuela’s Juan Ruiz (20-1, 12 KOs) this Friday, May 11.

The 10-round “Path to Glory” main event originates from the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, Calif. and caps Thompson Boxing’s terrific 18 Year Anniversary show.

Arriaza, fighting out of Los Angeles by way of Nicaragua, is ranked as the No. 9 challenger by the WBO.

The 28-year-old burst onto the national scene on broadcast network Telemundo with a twenty second, first round destruction of Sammy Valentin in March. The spectacular knockout win awarded Arriaza his current championship.

Click here to watch Arriaza’s KO win, or on the graphic above.

Thompson Boxing caught up with the titleholder and got his take on the first defense of his career, what relocating to Los Angeles has been like, and the loaded welterweight division that he’s trying to climb.

On defending your WBO Intercontinental Title…

“I’m motivated more than ever for this title fight. It’s important to show up ready to attack. I don’t know too much on Ruiz, but I know he likes to box on the outside. We’ll cut the distance and make this into a fight.”

On what relocating to Los Angeles has been like…

“I like it a lot. The weather is consistently good and you have all kinds of food options. I miss my family back home, but it’s nice to live in a peaceful environment.”

Give us your thoughts on the welterweight division…

“It’s an excellent division with great champions. I see myself as a future world champion, up there with those guys. With fights like these, I’m earning my shot at a world title.”

Walk us through the 20 second knockout of Sammy Valentin…

“I went into that fight not thinking knockout. I never really predict knockout wins. I was planning to box him. We both had mutual respect for one another and I found Valentin to be a tough challenge. It just so happens that he opened up too much and I just started landing heavy shots, one after the other. Before I knew it, the fight was over.”

Tickets for “Path to Glory” are priced at $40, $75, & $100, and are available for purchase by calling 714-935-0900, or online at ThompsonBoxing.com.

In the 8-round co-feature, Junior NABF featherweight champion Erick Ituarte (19-1-1, 3 KOs) of Santa Ana, Calif. puts his hardware on the line against former world title challenger Carlos Carlson (22-3, 13 KOs) of Mexico.

All fights will be live streamed on TB Presents: Path to Glory via our Facebook page and ThompsonBoxing.com.

The livestream starts at 8:00 p.m. PT / 11:00 p.m. ET with Beto Duran as the blow-by-blow announcer and Steve Kim providing expert, color commentary.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. local time with the first bout at approximately 8:00 p.m. The Doubletree Hotel is located at 222 N. Vineyard Ave. in Ontario, CA 91764 and can be reached at 909-937-0900.

“Path to Glory” is presented by Thompson Boxing Promotions and sponsored by Everlast.

For more information, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com. To follow the conversation on social media, please use #PathtoGlory, #TBPresents, #18Years, and #ThompsonBoxing.

For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please check our Facebook Page, watch our YouTube channel on Thompson Boxing TV, and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @ThompsonBoxing.

#1-rated IBF Inter-Continental Female Featherweight Champion Elena Gradinar is calling out the rest of her division’s best.

The undefeated 27-year-old, from Saint Petersburg, Russia, was last seen dominating former world champion Olivia Gerula in March. She has now set her sights on IBF Champion Jennifer Han and the top-rated female fighters in the featherweight division.

“I am very honored to have the Inter-Continental Title and be their number-one featherweight contender,” said Gradinar. “I want to demonstrate the true definition of a top contender and, soon, I believe a world champion by fighting the very best in every fight. This is a great time and space for women’s boxing and I am happy to be making my mark in this day and age.”

Based on her heavily decorated amateur career, Gradinar attained the designation of Sport Master of Russia in her homeland and has made quite a name for herself overseas. The goal, however, is for her to begin to make an impact in the US.

Her co-promoter, Dmitriy Salita, says Gradinar’s time has come. “Elena Gradinar has shown consistent improvement in her game and is one of the best fighters in the featherweight division. With woman’s boxing making huge strides, I believe that Elena will win a world title in the near future and make her US debut on a platform for boxing fans to see the high level of her talents.

Salita says his phone is always on if representatives of any of the world’s top female featherweights are interested in stepping up.

# # #

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

LOS ANGELES (May 8, 2018) — He came, He saw, He conquered. And he did it Mexican Style! Refusing to let boxing be held hostage on its biggest day, Cinco De Mayo, undefeated World Middleweight Champion GENNADY “GGG” GOLOVKIN’s Big Drama Show made a triumphant return to HBO. Last Saturday, in his first non-pay-per-view event since 2016. Golovkin (38-0-1 34 KOs), from Karaganda, Kazakhstan, currently boxing’s longest-reigning world champion (since 2010), defended his title for the 20th consecutive and division-record-tying time. Saturday’s victim was fellow 2004 Olympian and three-time world title challenger Vanes “The Nightmare” Martirosyan (36-4-1, 21 KOs), from Glendale, Calif., who was counted out in the second round of their battle at StubHub Center in Carson, Calif. It was the first time Martirosyan had ever been stopped. The Golovkin vs. Martirosyan main event registered 1,249,000 viewers and peaked at 1,361,000 viewers, according to data from Nielsen Media Research. Those figures make Golovkin vs. Martirosyan the No. 1-rated cable fight for 2018 and the top-rated premium cable fight since 2016 — Golovkin’s title defense against Dominic Wade — which took place at The Fabulous Forum in Inglewood, Calif.

The opening bout — HBO’s first-ever telecast of a women’s fight live on the service — averaged a sensational 904,000 viewers. The 10-round unanimous decision victory by World Female Welterweight Champion Cecilia Braekhus (33-0, 9 KOs), from Norway, boxing’s only undisputed world champion, over former WBC middleweight champion Kali Reis (13-7-1, 4 KOs), from Providence, Rhode Island, peaked at 1,024,000 viewers. Even more impressive, Braekhus’ debut was the second-highest-rated fight on HBO this year.

“Gennady Golovkin may be the champion of the middleweight division but he delivers knockout ratings with a heavyweight punch,” said Golovkin’s promoter Tom Loeffler. “Gennady continues to rack up the records, Not only did he tie Bernard Hopkins’ consecutive title defense record, it took Gennady two less years to accomplish that feat. Gennady also added two more StubHub Center milestones to his long list of accomplishments. In addition to owning the boxing attendance record at StubHub Center, which he set in 2014 against Marco Rubio, he also shattered the venue’s record for the highest-grossing boxing event and merchandise sales on Saturday night. That makes Gennady a StubHub Center Triple Crown winner! Besides StubHub Center, the Big Drama Show has sold out many of the most iconic arenas, including The Forum, Madison Square Garden and the O2 Arena. Make no mistake, this is just the beginning. Gennady is ready to return to the ring as soon as it can be scheduled.”

BILOXI, MISSISSIPPI (May 8, 2018) – Once-beaten contender Eddie Ramirez will take on former world champion Argenis Mendez in a 10-round super lightweight showdown that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes Saturday, May 26 from Beau Rivage Resort and Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi

Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will also feature former title challenger Oscar Escandon meeting unbeaten 2012 Olympic silver medalist Tugstsogt Nyambayar in a 10-round featherweight bout.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, start at $20 and are on sale now at the Beau Rivage Theatre box office, at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000.

“This is a fantastic card for true boxing fans, because it has all the elements that make the sport great,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “You have a young contender in Eddie Ramirez looking to rebound from the first loss of his career facing a battle-tested former world champion in Argenis Mendez. You also have a young hungry contender in Nyambayar taking a major step forward by facing a strong contender in Escandon who wants to get back in the title mix. No one wants to take a step backwards.”

Ramirez (17-1, 11 KOs) is looking to bounce back from suffering the first loss of his career in his last outing. Ramirez was knocked out by former world champion Antonio DeMarco last October on FOX, although Ramirez believed the ref acted too hastily in ending the fight. The 25-year-old from Aurora, Illinois was rapidly moving up the ranks before the loss, having scored impressive stoppage victories over then unbeaten prospects Kevin Watts and Ryan Karl and a split decision victory over Erick Bone in fights that aired on FS1 and FOX Deportes.

“I really wanted the rematch with Antonio DeMarco, but I’m excited to be back in the ring,” said Ramirez. “Mendez is a good fighter, but I’m going to win by knockout. I’m confident that I’m going to make a big statement that I’m back and better than I’ve ever been.”

The 31-year-old Mendez (24-5-1, 12 KOs) is coming off a split decision victory over Ivan Redkach last May on FS1 and FOX Deportes. With the win, the fighter out of the Dominican Republic rebounded from back-to-back losses to lightweight champion Robert Easter, Jr. and Luke Campbell. A member of the 2004 Dominican Olympic team, Mendez won a 130-pound world title with a knockout victory over Juan Carlos Salgado in 2013. He fought Rances Barthelemy twice to defend the title, with the first fight being declared a no decision before Mendez dropped the rematch.

“I lost two fights and people started to wonder if I was done, but I’m a former world champion and came back strong to win my last fight,” said Mendez. “Eddie Ramirez is a good fighter, but when I show him my speed power, and skills, everyone is going to see what I’m still capable of. This is a great opportunity to show that I can beat this guy badly and get back to the world championship level.”

Escandon (25-3, 17 KOs) is trying to climb back into the featherweight title picture after losing by TKO to world champion Gary Russell, Jr. in his last fight on May 20. The 33-year-old from Ibague, Colombia scored a knockout victory over Robinson Castellanos in a 2016 interim featherweight title fight and lost a split decision to Moises Flores in a 2015 interim super bantamweight title bout.

“With the level of competition that I’ve fought and beat, I know I’m the toughest and most experienced guy Nyambayar will have ever fought,” said Escandon. “Knockouts are what I do, and that’s what I’m preparing to accomplish. But no matter what he tries to do, box or fight, I’m going to win this fight and climb back to the top.”

Nyambayar (9-0, 8 KOs) went the distance for the first time as a pro last time in the ring as he earned an eight round unanimous decision over then unbeaten Harmonito Dela Torre last November. The 25-year-old from Ulan-Bator, Mongolia won a silver medal at flyweight at the 2012 London Games and has trained in California since turning pro in 2015.

“I feel very prepared for this fight,” said Nyambayar. “I’ve gained a lot of experience in my last few fights and have started to prove that I am tough and dangerous. This is another step up and I expect him to be toughest opponent I’ve faced. I’m determined to win this fight by any means,”

# # #

Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, available in English or Spanish through the FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage andwww.foxdeportes.com.
Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @FS1, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on FS1 & FOX Deportes is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Now in its seventh season, THE FIGHT GAME WITH JIM LAMPLEY returns with a new edition WEDNESDAY, MAY 9 at a special time (10:30-11:00 p.m. ET/PT), exclusively on HBO. Hosted by the four-time Sports Emmy® winner, who has hosted HBO Boxing since joining the network in 1988, the show is a provocative, engaging and informative experience that delves into intriguing storylines, newsmakers and issues that are top-of-mind in boxing.

The show is also available on HBO NOW, HBO GO, HBO On Demand and partners’ streaming services.

Segments on this edition of THE FIGHT GAME include: correspondent Kelefa Sanneh’s trip to Cuba to visit a group of female fighters who are challenging long-established gender bias and striving to build their own Olympic boxing tradition; a look back at the May 5 middleweight showdown between Gennady Golovkin and Vanes Martirosyan that extended “GGG” successful title defenses to a record-tying 20; analyst Bernard Hopkins’ feature report; and Lampley’s survey of the latest news.

Immediately following the show’s May 9 debut, fight fans can log on to hbo.com for an exclusive overtime segment hosted by Lampley.

UFC®, the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization, and The Walt Disney Company’s new Direct-To-Consumer & International segment along with ESPN, have reached an immersive, multi-year media rights agreement for exclusive live UFC content on ESPN+, as well as across a variety of ESPN’s television, social and digital platforms, in English and Spanish, taking effect in January 2019.

This first-ever rights and distribution agreement between the two companies provides for 15 live UFC events to stream exclusively 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, in partnership with ESPN. Each event will be branded “UFC on ESPN+ Fight Night” and will deliver a full card of 12 UFC bouts.

Kevin Mayer, Chairman, Direct to Consumer and International, The Walt Disney Company said, “One of our goals for ESPN+ is to bring sports fans of all genres content they love and are passionate about, and this agreement with UFC is illustrative of exactly that. We look forward to providing UFC’s enthusiastic, growing fan base with a wide array of live events and building a lasting relationship with the industry leader in mixed martial arts.”

Jimmy Pitaro, ESPN President and Co-Chairman, Disney Media Networks said: “UFC is a premier global sports property with legions of incredibly avid fans. We are excited to be able to bring their world-class events and content to ESPN+ and the ESPN networks. This agreement shows the commitment we have to delivering fans the very best across our entire platform.”

Dana White, President, UFC said: “I couldn’t be more excited to partner with The Walt Disney Company and ESPN on an agreement that will continue to grow our sport. UFC has always done deals with the right partners at the right time and this one is no exception. We will now have the ability to deliver fights to our young fan base wherever they are and whenever they want it. This deal is a home run for ESPN and UFC.”

UFC has the youngest fan base among major U.S. sports properties, with a median age of 39, and also comprises a much higher concentration of millennials than its peers, with 41% falling into the adult 18-34 demographic.

Fans can subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year). To subscribe, fans simply download or open the ESPN App (or visit ESPNPlus.com). In addition to live, exclusive events, the lineup of UFC content available to ESPN+ subscribers will include:

· Exclusive, all new-seasons of “Dana White’s Contender Series” beginning in June 2019

A new original, all access series produced by IMG Original Content
· Exclusive pre- and post-event shows for all 15 “UFC on ESPN+ Fight Nights”

· Non-exclusive access to UFC’s full archive of programming, including historic events, classic bouts, and original programming

· Additional UFC-branded content, including “UFC Countdown” shows, press conferences, weigh-ins and pre-and post-shows

In addition to the live events and content included in the ESPN+ subscription, fight fans will be able to purchase and watch UFC FIGHT PASS® (UFC’s DTC streaming offering) and UFC PPV events via ESPN+, for a separate cost.

ESPN will also bring fans a variety of UFC content across ESPN’s widely consumed linear and digital platforms, including an exclusive, 30-minute special on ESPN’s linear networks previewing upcoming bouts and breaking down match ups leading up to each UFC PPV; hundreds of hours of UFC library programming on linear networks; and re-airs of current UFC PPV events.

The ESPN App and ESPN+ are available on mobile and TV-connected devices and on ESPN.com. The new ESPN App with ESPN+ are 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.

–30–

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.

About Disney Direct-to-Consumer and International

Comprised of Disney’s international media businesses and the Company’s various streaming services, the Direct-to-Consumer and International segment aligns technology, content and distribution platforms to expand the Company’s global footprint and deliver world-class, personalized entertainment experiences to consumers around the world. The recently announced segment is responsible for The Walt Disney Company’s direct-to-consumer businesses globally, including the ESPN+ sports streaming service, programmed in partnership with ESPN; the upcoming Disney-branded direct-to-consumer streaming service; and the Company’s ownership stake in Hulu. As part of the Direct-to-Consumer and International segment, BAMTECH Media, developer of the ESPN+ and Disney-branded streaming platforms, oversees all consumer-facing digital technology and products across the Company.

About UFC®
UFC® is a premium global sports brand and the largest Pay-Per-View event provider in the world. Celebrating its 25th Anniversary in 2018, UFC boasts more than 284 million fans worldwide and has produced over 400 events in 21 countries since its inception in 1993. Acquired in 2016 by global sports, entertainment and fashion leader Endeavor (formerly WME | IMG), together with strategic partners Silver Lake Partners and KKR, UFC is headquartered in Las Vegas with a network of employees around the world. UFC produces more than 40 live events annually that consistently sell out some of the most prestigious arenas around the globe, while programming is broadcast in over 165 countries and territories to more than 1.1 billion TV households worldwide in 40 different languages. UFC FIGHT PASS®, a digital subscription service, delivers exclusive live events, thousands of fights on-demand and original content to fans around the world. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat and Instagram: @UFC.