SADAM “WORLD KID” ALI AND ZACHARY “ZUNGRY” OCHOA BROOKLYN MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES


BROOKLYN, NY (Nov. 28, 2017) Current WBA International Welterweight Champion Sadam “World Kid” Ali (25-1, 14 KOs) today hosted a media workout at his gym in Brooklyn ahead of his fight against Miguel Cotto (41-5, 33 KOs) for the WBO World Junior Middleweight Championship set for this Saturday, Dec. 2 at the World’s Most Famous Arena, Madison Square Garden, which will be televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT.

Joining Ali at the workout was super lightweight contender Zachary “Zungry” Ochoa (17-1, 7 KOs) who will fight on the Cotto vs. Ali undercard in a six-round super lightweight bout against Erick Martinez (14-9-1, 8 KOs) that will be streamed on RingTV.com

Here is what Ali and Ochoa had to say at the workout:

SADAM “WORLD KID” ALI, Current WBA International Welterweight Champion:

“I’m really excited to be fighting at MSG against a legend. I know what’s in front on me, and I know what I’m stepping up to. I’m different, I’m a bit of a boxer, I can brawl if I need to, and I have my little tricks.

“My motivation is being on HBO, it being a world title, and my career honestly. People say I didn’t deserve this fight, but they haven’t been paying attention to my career.

“This is my hometown. I grew up here. Cotto is coming to my territory. He’s got power; I need to focus on not getting stuck. I worked a little bit with Danny Jacobs and Curtis Stevens for this fight.

“I want to thank all the fans who are coming to watch my fight! It’ll be a great one!”

ANDRE ROZIER, TRAINER OF SADAM “WORLD KID” ALI:

“Sadam knows that this is the opportunity of a lifetime. We took the fight knowing what we had to step up to. Sadam’s ready. He’s been ready for a fight like this.”

ZACHARY “ZUNGRY” OCHOA, Super Lightweight Contender:

“I’m so excited to be fighting at MSG. This is a fight for us here in the boroughs, for the Puerto Rican, and Arab community.

“I’m an awkward fighter, and I have a pretty unconventional fight style but I can bang!

“I’m excited to be building myself up again. After my first loss, I’ve been working on all my mistakes. I’ve been able to come back stronger mentally, and I’ve been able to learn from greats like Sadam. We’re good friends, and I’ll be rooting for him.”

Cotto vs. Ali, a 12-round fight for the Cotto’s WBO World Junior Middleweight Championship, is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Miguel Cotto Promotions. Vargas vs. Negrete is a 12-round fight for Vargas’ WBC World Super Bantamweight Title and is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Miguel Cotto Promotions in association with Promociones del Pueblo. The event is sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING,” “Hennessy: Never Stop. Never Settle.”, and Casa Mexico Tequila. The event will take place Saturday, Dec. 2 at Madison Square Garden in New York City and will be televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT. The RingTV.com livestream will begin at approximately 7:00 p.m. ET/ 4:00 p.m. PT.

Tickets for Cotto vs. Ali are priced at $500, $300, $200, $100 and $50 and are on sale. Tickets can be purchased at the Madison Square Garden Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster charge by phone (866-858-0008) and online at www.ticketmaster.com, www.goldenboytickets.com or www.MSG.com.

For more information visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, and www.promocionesmiguelcotto.com, and www.hbo.com/boxing. Follow on Twitter at @cottopromotions, @GoldenBoyBoxing, and @hboboxing, and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing and www.facebook.com/realmiguelacotto. Visit us on Instagram at @GoldenBoyBoxing and @realmiguelacotto and follow the conversation using #CottoAli.
Photos and videos are available to download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link: http://bit.ly/CottoAli into a browser. Credit must be given to Golden Boy Promotions for photos and videos used.




QUOTES — TOKA KAHN-CLARY PROVIDENCE MEDIA WORKOUT!!


PROVIDENCE, RI (November 28 30, 2017) — Evander Holyfield’s The Real Deal Boxing, the promotional entity under his Real Deal Sports and Entertainment, hosted a media workout this afternoon at Manfredo’s Boxing Gym in Cranston, RI for fighters on this Friday night’s ‘Real Deal Championship Boxing V’ card, telecast on CBS Sports Network (9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT) from The Strand Ballroom and Theatre in Providence, RI,

Tickets starting at $45 are Now On Sale and can be purchased through www.TheRealDealBoxing.com and www.thestrandri.com.

The Strand Ballroom and Theatre is located at 79 Washington Street, Providence, RI, 02903. Doors will open on the evening of the event at 6:00 p.m. ET with the first bell at 7:00 p.m. ET.

Evander Holyfield (far right) watches his fighter, Toka Kahn-Clary, working out with head trainer Peter Manfredo, Sr.

MAIN EVENT – VACANT WBC USNBC FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP (10) – CBSSN
Toka “T-Nice” Kahn-Clary (23-1, 15 KOs), Providence, RI by way of Liberia
vs.
John Vincent Moralde (19-0, 10 KOs), General Santos, Philippines

CO-FEATURE – CRUISERWEIGHTS (8) – CBSSN
Fabio “Stone Crusher” Turchi(12-0, 9 KOs), Florence, Italy
vs.
Demetrius Banks (9-3, 4 KOs), Detroit, MI

FEATHERWEIGHTS (6) – CBSSN
Irvin Gonzalez (7-0, 6 KOs), Worcester, MA
vs.
Ernesto Garza (9-2, 5 KOs), Saginaw, MI

JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS (8)
Nick DeLomba (11-2, 2 KOs), Cranston, RI
vs.
Louis Cruz (12=3, 6 KOs), Bronx, NY

JUNIOR LIGHTWEIGHTS (4)
Timmy Ramos (4-0-1, 4 KOs), Framingham, MA
vs.
Phil Davis (1-1), Worcester, MA

CRUISERWEIGHTS (4)
Bryan Daniels (5-1, 3 KOs), Worcester, MA
vs.
Darnell “The Unknown” Pierce (5-1, 1 KO), Frederick, MD

WELTERWEIGHTS (4)
Poindexter Knight (pro debut), Philadelphia, PA
vs.
Samuel Forjoe (0-1), Bronx, NY

JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS (6)
Jeremy “J-Flash” Nichols (7-1-1, 2 KOs), Las Vegas, NV
vs.
Daniel “The Hudson Valley Kid” Sostre (13-15-1, 5 KOs), Vega Maja, Puerto Rico

LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS (4)
Alan Lawrence (3-0, 3 KOs), Newark, NJ
vs.
Nathan Schulte (0-3), Woburn, MA

WORKOUT QUOTES

Evander Holyfield, Hall of Famer, Real Deal Boxing:”There’s a lot of pressure fighting in a big fight for the first time at home. I remember my homecoming in Atlanta, back in 1985, and there were a lot of distractions. Everybody who knew my name showed up, most looking for free tickets. I was skeptical about ever fighting there again. Everybody’s different, though.”

“Toka may be our first world champion. He’s a very disciplined person who has been through a lot. I come from the ghetto but, when I heard his story, wow, I couldn’t believe his (life) was harder than mine.”

Toka-Kahn-Clary: (Toka became a father for the first time on Nov. 11, when his wife, Devanni, delivered a 7-pound girl, Adaline) “Now, I’m fighting for my family, not just Toka anymore.”

“I feel good. I had to have patience and faith in my craft to get here. If you keep working hard, doors will open, and when they do you have to jump right through. I want to win impressively, dominate the fight”

“I see a lot of top fighters in my weight class. I’m not going to name any until after this fight, but I have the talent to beat them.”

“I want to be recognized after I stop fighting, like Evander, who everybody knows, likes and respects.”

Peter Manfredo, Sr., Kahn-Clary’s head trainer: “Toka is a top prospect who is becoming a contender. A lot of fighters don’t even get to this point. This fight is a major opportunity to get him closer to where he wants to be, not just a world champion, but for his name to be remembered in boxing. He wants to be a legend. He has to remain focused because this is the first time he’ll have a big crowd behind him.”

Fabio Turchi (Italian Amateur Champion) “Everybody here has been great, very hospitable. It’s such a great honor for me to fight in America with its great boxing tradition. I want to have a great fight to be embraced by Americans, especially here in Rhode Island. It’s beautiful having so many Italians, that gives me and added push to win.”

Nick DeLomba: “This opportunity means the world to me because I’ll be showcasing my talents in front of my hometown fans. An impressive win will, hopefully, get me to the next level, in TV fights against bigger names.”

Evander Holyfield being interviewed at today’s open workout in Cranston, RI by the three network affiliates

Holyfield will host the final press conference tomorrow (Wed.), starting at 1 p.m. ET, at Ladder 133 Sports Bar and Grill (133 Douglas Avenue) in Smith Hill, RI.

A public weigh in will be held Thursday, starting at 3:30 p.m. ET (on scale at 4), at The Strand Ballroom and Theatre.

Real Deal Sports & Entertainment is proud to partner with Medical Arts Radiology (www.medicalartsradiology.com) and Venum (www.venum.com).

SOCIAL MEDIA
Facebook: @TheRealDealPromotions
Twitter: @TheRealDealBox
Instagram: @TheRealDealBoxing




STAR BOXING ANNOUNCES JANUARY 26TH AS THE DATE FOR ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 29 AT THE PARAMOUNT

New York, November 28, 2017
Star Boxing’s Joe DeGuardia has announced that Friday, January 26th will be the date for “Rockin Fights 29” at the Paramount in Huntington, NY.
The Paramount has seen incredible cards in the past 28 Rockin’ Fights, and January 26th will not be any different. Stay tuned for an announcement of the main event and undercard bout’s, coming shortly.
Get your tickets before anyone else! Tickets will be on pre-sale for our loyal fans on our mailing list, starting tomorrow, November 29th, at 10 AM until November 30th at 10 PM, using Code: ‘STAR’.

Tickets open to the general public on Friday December, 1st at 10 AM.
Tickets are on sale now at The Paramount Box Office (631) 673-7300 or Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster.com, or by calling 1 (800) 745-3000 or Star Boxing (718) 823-2000 or www.starboxing.com.
“Rockin Fights” are sponsored by Modell’s Sporting Goods, Montauk Iced Tea, Modell’s Sporting Goods stores, The Inn at Fox Hollow, Camelot Limousine.




MICHAEL CONLAN / SHAKUR STEVENSON CHRISTOPHER DIAZ / MIKAELA MAYER / CASEY RAMOS HIGHLIGHT UNDERCARD FOR HISTORIC LOMACHENKO vs. RIGONDEAUX WORLD TITLE FIGHT

NEW YORK (November 28, 2017) — MICHAEL “Mick” CONLAN, SHAKUR STEVENSON, and MIKAELA MAYER will complete their first season as professionals on the undercard of the historic collision between world champions VASILY “Hi-Tech” LOMACHENKO.and.GUILLERMO “El Chacal” RIGONDEAUX, Saturday, December 9, at The Theater at Madison Square Garden. Lomachenko (9-1, 7 KOs) a native of Ukraine, will defend his World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior lightweight world title against the reigning World Boxing Association (WBA) super bantamweight world champion Rigondeaux (17-0, 11 KOs), of Cuba, marking the first time that two-time Olympic gold medalists have fought each other professionally at the highest level. The four-bout telecast, headlined by Lomachenko vs. Rigondeaux, will be televised live and exclusively at 9:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. PT on ESPN and ESPN Deportes and stream live on the ESPN App.

The televised undercard will feature two-time Irish Olympian Conlan (4-0, 4 KOs), from Belfast, a former World Amateur Champion and Olympic bronze medalist, returning to The Garden for the first time since his show-stopping pro debut, which took place on St. Patrick’s Day in front of a sellout crowd. He will be taking on LUIS FERNANDO “El Titi” MOLINA (4-3-1, 1 KO), from Pablo Podest?, Buenos Aires, Argentina, in a six-round featherweight bout. Undefeated Top-10 contender CHRISTOPHER “Pitufo” DIAZ (21-0, 13 KOs), from Barranquitas, Puerto Rico, who won all his fights in 2017 by way of knockout, will battle CASEY “The Wizard” RAMOS (24-1, 6 KOs), from Austin, TX., in a 10-round bout for the vacant NABO junior lightweight title. The telecast will open with Newark’s 2016 U.S. Olympic silver medalist Stevenson (3-0, 1 KO), who spent most of his training camp sparing with Lomachenko, facing OSCAR “El Coyote” MENDOZA (4-2, 2 KOs), of Santa Maria, Calif. Mendoza has won all of his fights this year, with the last two coming by way of knockout. Their featherweight bout is scheduled for six-rounds. Stevenson made his Garden debut on May 20, where he stopped Carlos Suarez in the first round..

Streaming live on the ESPN App, beginning at 7:30 p.m. ET / 4:30 p.m. PT, (along with the televised card) will be: Mayer (2-0, 2 KOs), from Los Angeles, a three-time national champion who came within one victory of the medal round at the 2016 summer games in Rio de Janeiro, in four-round lightweight bout against former IWBF bantamweight world champion NYDIA “Dha Phenomenal” FELICIANO (9-8-3), from the Bronx, New York; two-time world heavyweight title challenger BRYANT “By-By” JENNINGS (20-2, 11 KOs), of North Philadelphia, PA., in an eight-round heavyweight bout, against DON “Mr. JBT” HAYNESWORTH (13-1-1, 11 KOs), of Greensboro, N.C.; and JOSE “Chocolatito” GONZALEZ (8-0-1, 2 KOs), from New York, in an eight-round featherweight bout against ADAN GONZALES (3-1-1, 2 KOs), of Denver, CO.

“New York is a market made for Mick, Shakur and Mikaela,” said Todd duBoef, president of Top Rank.. “Mick has proven that with his Irish base, Shakur’s Newark fan nucleus has spread beyond state and regional borders, and Mikaela’s general appeal is limitless. We have curated incredible supporting bouts to this historic night. Every fight is relevant and meaningful. They are all stepping up and on their way to eventually headlining major events at The Garden and other major venues.”

“I’m really excited to go back to The Garden. It’s my first time back since my pro debut and I’m looking forward to putting on another great show for all the fans that are coming too see me, it feels already like it’s my second home,” said Conlan. “December 9th is a huge night for boxing and I’m honoured to be a part of it! Make sure you tune in. This is show is not to be missed!”

“I’m feeling great and ready to perform again at Madison Square Garden. My fight there in May was one of my best so I’m excited to return and outdo my last performance on one of the biggest boxing cards of the year, Lomachenko-Rigondeuax,” said Stevenson. “I’m looking to really make a name for myself and put on an amazing performance for everyone at The Theater and all the viewers tuning in on ESPN. Getting the chance to spar with Vasyl Lomachenko, in this camp, prepared me well for this fight and showed me where I am skill-wise, mentally and overall as a boxer. I am ready for anything and I was blessed to have the chance to go out to California and spar with Lomachenko.”

“On December 9, you will see a more disciplined ‘Pitufo’ — one that fights intelligently, with more quickness, but above all else, one that fights with a lot of hunger inside the ring. I have been eating gym for a couple of months and I also ate gym during Thanksgiving. On December 9, I will eat Casey Ramos,” said Diaz. “I have a great opportunity in front of me. This will be the fight and the performance that will launch me to the next level. If Lomachenko and Rigondeaux don’t give the fans the kind of fight they want, ‘Pitufo’ Diaz will steal the show.”

“I’m beyond excited to fight in New York City, not only because I’ll be fighting at the historic Garden but because of the energy I know New York boxing fans are going to bring to the venue. They’re some of the most passionate fans in the United States and I want to give them a great show,” said Mayer. “I’m grateful to be with a promoter who sees what female boxers can bring to the table and I thank them for giving me such a stage to perform on. This is where the best of us women belong and I’m ready to show New York my skills.”

“I think of Madison Square Garden as the Mecca of Boxing. Lots of history and big names have fought there. I am looking forward to coming from Texas
and fighting there,” said Ramos. “Fighting for the WBO’s NABO title positions me to fight for a world title. That is what I will be seeking after beating Christopher Diaz. Fighting on ESPN makes it even more special where a fighter like me can
gain expansive fan base exposure. As far as Diaz in front of me I don’t think he’s fought the caliber of fighters I have — meaning he has less experience than me. So those advantages will be shown in the ring on December 9 — my experience and ability — in a win over Diaz.”

“There is a reason why this sport is called the Sweet Science. People may think it is easy to go into the ring on fight night but it is not. I’ve been working at our gym in Philadelphia getting into the right comfort zone while in the ring fighting. That means being at ease when you go to work and attack your opponent in special unique ways to make him unsettled and uncomfortable. There is a lot of thought process going on when you are inside the ropes. This is my fourth time at Madison Square Garden. Looking forward to it,” said Jennings.

Promoted by Top Rank®, in association with Roc Nation Sports and Madison Square Garden, tickets to the Lomachenko vs. Rigondeaux world championship event sold out two months in advance! It is Lomachenko’s second advance sellout in his past three fights. His April 8 title defense against former world champion Jason Sosa sold out the MGM National Harbor one month in prior to the event.

********************

For more information visit: www.toprank.com,www.espn.com/boxing;Facebook facebook.com/trboxing, facebook.com/trboxeo, facebook.com/espndeportes; Twitter twitter.com/trboxing, twitter.com/trboxeo, @ESPN @ESPNBoxeo
@ESPNDeportes. Use the hashtags #LomaRigo to join the conversation on Twitter.




TWO CANADIAN TITLE FIGHTS HEADLINE “CIVIL WAR” DECEMBER 8 IN TORONTO

TORONTO, ON—Just two weeks out from a classic Grey Cup matchup between the Toronto Argonauts and the Calgary Stampeders, Toronto will be looking to bring another pair of Canadian championships back home.

On December 8, Lee Baxter Promotions returns to Danforth Music Hall, as a pair of Canadian championship bouts headline “Civil War.”

In the main event, Toronto favorite Kane Heron, looks to capture the WBA-NABA welterweight title on home soil. After battling injuries early in his career, Heron has been one of the most active Canadian fighters over the past year and a half, scoring five wins in 2017 alone.

“Kane has worked tremendously hard this year—maybe harder than any other fighter in the country. He’s in the best shape of his career, the best mental state as well, and he’s ready to cap off the year in the best way possible,” said Baxter.

Heron will battled Quebec’s Dwayne Durel, whose lone loss came in controversial fashion at the hands of the tough Jose Guillermo Garcia. If not for the split decision going the other way, Durel would have an unblemished professional record to go along with his exceptional amateur career.

“This might as well be a battle of undefeated fighters. But more importantly, it’s Toronto vs. Montreal. Ontario vs. Quebec. There’s maybe no better rivalry in all of sports, or Canadian boxing, as fans in our country know,” said Baxter.

In the co-feature, Patrice Volny defends his WBA-NABA Canadian Middleweight title against the hard-hitting Janks Trotter. Volny has established himself as one of the best fighters in Canada, and one of the top prospects in the middleweight division on the world stage as well. Since signing with Baxter and making his fighting home in Toronto, the Quebec native has scored four consecutive knockouts and rocketed to the top of the Canadian rankings.

“Patrice is truly the total package,” said Baxter. “He’s a showman inside the ring, but not the kind that will put you to sleep over 12 rounds. He’s literally looking to put his opponent to sleep from the time the opening bell rings, and he wants to do it in style.”

In Trotter, he’ll encounter the toughest test of his career, one of the country’s most feared knockout punchers. The rugged Calgary native has fought on some of the biggest stages in boxing, including the Bell Centre in Montreal, and the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Trotter has scored highlight reel knockouts over top Canadian prospects such as Phil Rose and Richard Reittie, and will look to do the very same to Volny in downtown Toronto.

Additionally, in a special attraction, one of Canada’s top amateurs of this most recent era, Mazlum Akdeniz will make his Ontario debut.

Akdeniz came to Canada at the age of five, and eventually found his way to a Montreal boxing gym as a 16-year old, looking to become like the world champions he saw on HBO and Showtime. It wouldn’t be long before he had amateur titles of his own, capturing the 2015 Ringside championships in the United States.

But it was in his final bout as an amateur that the boxing world realized how special he was. Akdeniz defeated Jorge Moiran Vinent, becoming the first Quebec-based boxer to defeat a Cuban fighter since the legendary Jean Pascal in 2005.

After starting his professional career with two knockouts in Quebec, the 20-year old has relocated to Toronto, where he is now signed with Lee Baxter Promotions.

Akdeniz has goals beyond the sport of boxing though, despite the fact that many project him to be a future world champion. Mainly, he wants to be a role model and a uniting force for the Kurdish community in Toronto, and in Canada at large.

“Kurdish people are not the richest or the biggest group of people but if we get a few names to become famous we can put ourselves on the map,” said Akdeniz, who donates proceeds from his fight purses to churches in Turkey, as well as anti-terrorism efforts.

Tickets are on sale now through Ticketmaster, and start at just $40.




Video: Miguel Cotto’s Greatest Hits




Video: UFC 218 Embedded: Vlog Series – Episode 1




November 21st King’s Promotions show to air TONIGHT!!! on Eleven Sports

Bethlehem, PA (November 28, 2017) – Last Tuesday night’s action packed card of King’s Promotions boxing from the Sands Bethlehem Event Center will air TONIGHT on Eleven Sports beginning at 7 PM ET.

The main event saw Mykal Fox remain perfect as he won the UBF All-Americas Welterweight title with an unanimous decision over Manuel Reyes.

The broadcast will also feature a toe-to-toe war between Victor Vazquez and undefeated Ricardo Garcia.

About ELEVEN SPORTS:

ELEVEN SPORTS is available in 70 million homes worldwide in Belgium, Italy, Luxembourg, Poland, Singapore, Taiwan and the United States. Launched in the US in March 2017, ELEVEN SPORTS is dedicated to delivering world-class domestic and international sports and lifestyle entertainment ‘For The Fans’. Sports fans will be treated to a unique mix of emerging and established sports combined to provide engaging and compelling LIVE entertainment, placing the viewer at the very heart of the action.

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CLETUS “HEBREW HAMMER” SELDIN AND YVES ULYSSE JR. WILL BATTLE IN DEC. 16 TRIPLEHEADER OPENER


New York (Nov. 28, 2017): A big jump in the super lightweight rankings will be on the line Saturday Dec. 16 when Cletus “Hebrew Hammer” Seldin (21-0, 17 KOs) returns just more than a month after a dominating KO to take on highly regarded
Yves Ulysses, Jr. (14-1, 9 KOs). The 10-round opening event of HBO World Championship Boxing begins live at 9:40 p.m. ET/PT.

The fight will serve as the TV opener for the main event featuring WBO World Middleweight Champion Billy Joe Saunders putting his belt on the line against former IBF World Middleweight Champion David Lemieux and the co-main event between Antoine “Action” Douglas and Gary “Spike” O’Sullivan for the WBO Intercontinental Middleweight title.

Fighting out of Long Island, NY, Seldin is a former WBC International Silver Super Lightweight Champion whose power has been on display throughout his career, culminating with a three-round knockout of previously once-defeated Roberto “Massa” Ortiz on November 11.

“My trainer and I have studied Yves Ulysse and know he is a solid boxer-puncher who fights with intensity and angles,” said Seldin. “He is as good as anyone in the 140lb class so it will be a hard fought exciting fight. I want to thank my promoter, Joe DeGuardia and HBO for getting me right back in the ring and back on HBO again so quickly. I want to fight every month like this.”

Across the ring will be local Montreal product Ulysses, Jr., who at 29 has never fought an opponent with a losing record and has just one defeat by close split decision.

“It has always been my dream since I started boxing to perform on HBO, the world’s most prestigious television network,” Ulysses said. “I’m so happy to get the opportunity to do this at home, Dec. 16, and show the whole world what I’m capable of.”

Star Boxing CEO Joe DeGuardia had this to say on the Hebrew Hammer’s return to HBO, “I’m thrilled to have Cletus Seldin back on HBO just one month since his exciting destruction of Roberto Ortiz. ‘The Hebrew Hammer’ has a style that thrills fans like the old days of Rocky Marciano and Jake LaMotta with sensational knockout power and relentless aggression. I’m grateful to Peter Nelson and HBO for giving the fans another opportunity to see this crowd pleasing fighter on HBO. We look forward to another exhilarating performance from Cletus Seldin, even though we recognize he will be fighting a skilled and talented opponent in Yves Ulysses Jr.”

“I’m really looking forward to this great fight on this night of fireworks on December 16, said Eye of the Tiger Management President
Camille Estephan. “Ulysse will put on the performance of his career and another star will be born.”

For more information visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.eottm.com, www.frankwarren.com, www.StarBoxing.com and www.hbo.com/boxing. Follow on Twitter at @StarBoxing, @GoldenBoyBoxing, @EOTMVD, @hboboxing, @bjsaunders_, @LemieuxBoxing, @Action_Douglas, @spike_osullivan, @frankwarren_tv and become a fan on Facebook at, www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/StarBoxing. Visit us on Instagram at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @eottm_boxing, @StarBoxing, @saundersbillyjoe, @davidlemieuxboxing, @action_douglass @garyspikeosullivan and follow the conversation using #SaundersLemieux.
FACTS:
Saunders vs. Lemieux, a 12-round fight for the Saunders’ WBO World Middleweight Championship, is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Eye of the Tiger Management in association with Frank Warren. Douglas vs. O’Sullivan is a 10-round fight for the WBO Intercontinental Middleweight Title presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Eye of The Tiger Management in association with GH3 Promotions and Murphy’s Boxing. Seldin Vs. Ulysse Jr. is a 10-round fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions, Eye of The Tiger Management and Star Boxing. The event is sponsored by Coors Light. The event will take place Saturday, December 16 at Place Bell in Laval, Quebec, Canada and will be televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing beginning at 9:40 p.m. ET/PT.
MEDIA:
Photos and videos are available to download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link: http://bit.ly/SaundersLemieux into a browser. Credit must be given to Golden Boy Promotions for photos and videos used.
TICKETS:
Tickets for Saunders vs. Lemieux are priced beginning at $45 to $500 and are on sale. Tickets can be purchased at the Place Bell Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster charge by phone (866-858-0008) and online at www.ticketmaster.com, www.goldenboytickets.com or www.placebell.ca/en.




Groves and Eubank Jr. face to face at heated press conference in London


Heated words were exchanged at the kickoff press conference before the Ali Trophy semi-final bout between WBA Super World Champion George Groves (27-3, 20 KOs) and IBO-Champ Chris Eubank Jr. (26-1,20 KOs) at the Manchester Arena on February 17, 2018.

“The hype behind this fight will be huge,” said Groves at Tuesday’s press conference in London.

“I hope the fight justifies it. On paper this is billed as a 50-50 fight with Eubank Jr. maybe even being made the favourite. But I don’t really understand that.

“I think the form, the history, the experience, the ability all lie in my favour and I’m looking forward to a big night. It’s a semifinal in a tournament I expect to win so it’s a stepping stone, another step on the way for me.”

“Chris Eubank Jr. puts on a façade that he’s able to do everything himself, that he’s a one-man band. But it’s very difficult doing stuff on your own so we’ll see if he starts to make changes and adapt. He’ll have to. Obviously, this is his first really big fight, definitely at super middleweight, and I believe that he is going to fall short in a lot of categories.”

Said Eubank Jr.: “I’ve had many big fights but this is probably the biggest in terms of profile and the tournament and the hype. But at the end of the day I always rise to the occasion. The bigger the fight the better I perform.”

“George seems to be hung up on what I’ll do. He needs to worry about himself. Thinking about me isn’t going to get him anywhere. I’m a man of my word and George, you will not see the end of the twelfth round.

“He doesn’t have the speed, his defence is poor and his stamina is average at best. The fact that he’s lacking in those things means he won’t be able to compete with me. I’m not a stepping stone. I’m Mount Everest and you’re not going to climb me.”

“This is a special fight,” said Kalle Sauerland, Comosa’s Chief Boxing Officer.

“When we saw the original eight fighters in the line up it was a dream in the distance. But on February 17 in Manchester the battle of Britain will commence. Groves vs Eubank Jr is a super-fight that surpasses the normal standard of boxing’s big fights. It really is a mega fight.

It’ll be an enthralling build up between two unbelievable athletes, two unbelievable characters who are both great for the sport. The storyline was written by the tournament. It came alive in the hot atmosphere of Stuttgart where we saw a sublime performance by Chris Eubank Jr. and a week later George Groves took care of a very talented challenger in Jamie Cox.

It’s a fight that I’m looking forward to and I think the whole country will too. It’s the super-fight to make at the moment. The World Boxing Super Series set out to deliver these fights and now it’s happening.”

Manchester Arena, Europe’s largest purpose-built indoor arena will be at capacity to witness what promises to be the biggest Super Middleweight night in years.

“We will work hard over the coming weeks to release extra tickets to meet the huge demand of this fight,” said Sauerland.

Said Roberto Dalmiglio, Comosa’s CEO: “Already by the semi-final stage the Ali Trophy and the World Boxing Super Series brand has achieved a lot. Fans are following us in a tremendous way and here we are presenting a semi-final which is indisputably one of the best sporting events in the UK in 2018.”

The Ali Trophy super middleweight semi-final between George Groves and Chris Eubank Jr. will be live on ITV Box Office on February 17.




AFTER ANOTHER HUGE SUCCESS AND POPULAR DEMAND, THE 4TH ANNUAL BOX FAN EXPO RETURNS SATURDAY MAY 5TH, IN LAS VEGAS 2018.


Las Vegas (November 28, 2018) – After another successful event this past May over the Cinco de Mayo weekend, Box Fan Expo organizers are excited to announce the fourth annual Box Fan Expo, returning once again at the Las Vegas Convention Center on May 5th, 2018.

Over the traditional and special Cinco de Mayo weekend which saw Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez battle with Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., at the T-Mobile stadium in Las Vegas in 2017, the Box Fan Expo also took place, opening its doors to boxing fans from all over the world.

From Las Vegas, the boxing mecca of the world, enthusiastic fans from all over were able to meet and greet some of their favourite fighters, both past and present. In addition to meeting their favourite fighters fans were also able to meet with the people behind such amazing organizations like Premier Boxing Champions, Mayweather Promotions, World Boxing Council, World Boxing Association, Supreme Boxing, The Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame, Feroz Fight Factory, Kronk Boxing, The American Boxing Association and many others.

The lucky fans who stayed throughout the full event had quite a treat with a special appearance by Floyd Mayweather Jr. who took time out of his busy schedule to honour the Box Fan Expo with an impromptu appearance towards the end of the show to support the Mayweather Promotions Team.

To Brandon Rios doing face-offs with fans to Shawn Porter, Marcos Maidana, Tommy Hearns, Fernando Vargas, Badou Jack, Jorge Linares, Jessie Vargas, Joel Casamayor, Kevin Kelley, Ishe Smith, Kevin Newman, Sharif Bogere, Neno Rodriguez, Mia St. John, Christy Martin, Jelena Mrdjenovich, Jesus Cuellar, sticking around to take care of each and every one of their fans — the Box Fan Expo truly delivered the ultimate fan experience event that they’re known for.
Many boxing personalities as well as current and former world champions showed up at the Expo, such as Marco Antonio Barrera, Abner Mares, Danny Jacobs, Rances Barthelemy, Hugo Centeno, Jeff Mayweather, J’Leon Love, Hasim Rahman, Bermane Stiverne, Chris Arreola, Maricela Cornejo, Ava Knight, Humberto ‘Chiquita’ Gonzalez, Alfredo Angulo, Richard Steele, Kenny Bayless, Dontae Williams (DBN), Elie Seckbach and many many more…

Hall of Fame Broadcaster Al Bernstein did an incredible job conducting interviews on the main stage with boxing celebrities for fans to enjoy.

Our house dj, DJ Todd, kept the music flowing, along with our Ring Card Girls — Rose, Rochelle, Starr, Karla, and Shayla — who entertained, interacted and took pictures with all the fans.

Throughout the next several months leading up to the event, there will be updates and info on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Box Fan Expo in 2018.

Click the link below to view the official promo videos of Box Fan Expo 2017, 2015 & 2014: http://goo.gl/y1aJpR

View Photos Gallery May 2017 here: http://boxfanexpo.com/photos-may-6th-2017/

About Box Fan Expo:

Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to Meet and Greet Boxing Superstars of today, current and former world champions, Legends of the sport and other boxing Celebrities at their booth. On Site, fans will experience different activities from Autograph Sessions, Photo Sessions, FaceOff with your favorite boxers, as well as a chance to purchase merchandise and memorabilia from their booth, plus so much more… you won’t want to miss this must-attend Expo!

Box Fan Expo will also feature top boxing organizations, promoters, ring card girls, famous trainers and commentators as well as companies related to the boxing industry gather “ALL UNDER ONE ROOF”.

Exhibitors such as boxing gear, apparel, new equipments, energy drinks, alcohol, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies and other companies who wish to participate will once again have a chance to showcase their brand to fans, media and the boxing industry.

Throughout the next several months leading up to the Event, there will be announcements on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo. And for anyone in the Boxing industry or other Exhibitors (non-industry), who would like to be involved and reserve a Booth, contact Box Fan Expo:

Telephone number: (514) 572-7222 or Las Vegas Number (702) 997-1927

For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com

More information on the Box Fan Expo is available at: http://boxfanexpo.com

You can follow Box Fan Expo on Twitter at: https://www.twitter.com/BoxFanExpo

and on Facebook at: https://facebook.com/BoxFanExpo




WARD: EURO GLORY CAN CAP A GREAT YEAR

Martin J Ward wants is aiming to crown the best year of his career by landing the vacant European Super-Featherweight title against Juli Giner at a sold-out York Hall, Bethnal Green on Wednesday December 13, live on Sky Sports.

Ward landed the British title for keeps and took the Commonwealth strap from previously unbeaten Anthony Cacace in July, and the 26 year old can tee up an even bigger year in 2018 by beating Giner.

The 24 year old Spaniard is looking to regain the title he landed in November 2015 and has been on Ward’s radar in the past – now the pair meet in a scrap that the hometown favourite believes he’ll have too much for the visitor.

“I’m really excited for this fight, I can’t wait for it,” said Ward. “It’s my time to win this European strap, I’m going to take the opportunity and grab it with both hands.

“As soon as I turned pro, my aim was to win the British Title first. After I won the title outright I thought to myself “What’s next?” and this is the next natural progression on from that.

“We got the British Title defences in the bank and then won the Commonwealth which put me forward to be mandatory for this European title. I’ve got the Championship rounds behind me against some good operators so far, I’ve got to just keep on progressing and going through the levels.

“We looked at Juli Giner a couple of years ago as a potential opponent. We tried to get the fight on, but it didn’t materialise. I’ve watched him over the last couple of years so he’s been on my radar. I think I’ll have too much for him on the night, there’s no two ways about it that title is coming home with me on December 13.

“Since the fight has been made, I’ve looked back over him but I don’t tend to watch too much. I’ll leave the strategy and planning to Tony but I’m confident I’ll have his number.

“He’s an experienced campaigner at this level, having previously won the European title so I don’t think he will be too fazed by fighting at York Hall. He’s been in there with some decent fighters, he’ll be
coming to knock my block off. It’s my job to put him in his place.

“It’s my goal to be a World champion but I have Giner in front of me first, I can’t be overlooking him at this stage.

“I can see myself being too fast and too sharp for him. He’s a good, solid pro but I’ll take him to pieces in the later rounds. I’ve been training very hard for this and I’m ready to put on a show.”

Ward and Giner clash on a big night of action in east London, topped by Katie Taylor’s first defence of her WBA World Lightweight title against American Jessica McCaskill.

Jake Ball and Miles Shinkwin clash for the WBA Continental Light-Heavyweight title, Team GB Rio Olympians Joe Cordina and Lawrence Okolie look to end their first term in the paid ranks on a high, Birmingham’s Gamal Yafai and young Essex talents Felix Cash and Ted Cheeseman also taste action.




Video: HBO Boxing’s Harold Lederman Previews Miguel Cotto vs. Sadam Ali




CES Boxing celebrates 25th anniversary Dec. 7th

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (Nov. 28th, 2017) — Twenty-five years of blood, sweat and tears, non-stop action and all the pageantry of combat sports comes together for one magical night Thursday, Dec. 7th, 2017 at Twin River Casino.

CES Boxing caps its year-long 25th anniversary celebration with next Thursday’s season finale, a special mid-week installment of the 2017 Twin River Casino Fight Series.

The event features nine bouts, in addition to a historic retrospect of CES’ quarter century of combat sports excellence, plus the induction of longtime Rhode Island sportscaster Ken Bell into the prestigious CES Ring of Honor. Next week’s “Thursday Night Fights” showcase is also presented in conjunction with the U.S. Marine Toys For Tots. All fans are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy to donate to a family in need during the holiday season.

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 entire card airs live on Facebook via FIGHTNIGHT LIVE, CES’ third event of the year on the fan-friendly streaming platform. Doors open at 6 p.m. ET and the first fight begins at 7.

Welterweight prospect Khiary Gray (14-3, 11 KOs) of Worcester, Mass., headlines the fight card in an eight-round bout against Philadelphia’s Greg Jackson (8-4-1, 2 KOs) for the vacant New England Interim 147-pound Title.

Forced to withdraw from his showdown with Juan Rodriguez in September due to injury, Gray fights next Thursday for the first time since June in his welterweight debut after campaigning his entire career at 154 pounds.

“I’m a dangerous man right now,” Gray said. “I’ve got respect for Jackson, don’t get me wrong, but I’m putting everything on the line for this fight. I’m coming to hurt. I’m coming for the respect I deserve.”

The 29-year-old Jackson, a winner over Phillip Lars in his last bout in October, returns to New England for the first time since battling reigning WBC USNBC champion Jimmy Williams to a draw in 2013.

“I breathe, eat and shit this. I don’t play,” Jackson said. “Everything else is secondary. I’m hungry. I’m real hungry.

“I’m not going to let anyone minimize me or my talent at all. However I’ve got to kick in the door is how I’ve got to kick in the door. Eventually, it’s going to come. God makes you wait until the time it’s right. This is very big for me. This is something Khiary may think is big for him, but it’s even bigger for me.”

Starring in the eight-round co-main event, Marshfield, Mass., welterweight Aleksandra Magdziak Lopes (18-4-2, 1 KO) faces Ontario’s Natasha Spence (8-3-1, 6 KOs), a two-time world-title challenger. Lopes has won eight of nine bouts, including her long-awaited return to Twin River in April when she defeated Mexico’s Paty Ramirez by unanimous decision.

Hard-hitting Sicilian heavyweight Juiseppe Cusumano (13-1, 11 KOs), fighting out of Danville, Va., makes his fourth appearance of 2017 in a six-round bout against Indianapolis’ Brandon Johnson (6-3, 3 KOs) and Providence, R.I., fan favorite Anthony Marsella Jr. (6-0, 3 KOs) puts his perfect record on the line in a six-round lightweight bout against Mexican challenger Oscar Eduardo Quezada (7-4, 4 KOs).

Marsella blasted 30-fight vet Israel Rojas in September via fourth-round knockout following a hard-fought win over Texan Abraham Torres in June in which he rounded from his first career knockdown to earn the victory on the scorecards.

Following in the footsteps of his idol, heavyweight legend Rocky Marciano, who fought 28 times in Rhode Island during his Hall of Fame career, Cusumano returns to Twin River for the third time this season in search of another knockout victory. The 6-foot-4 heavyweight has won 11 in a row, including seven by knockout.

Facing his toughest test to date, unbeaten Worcester lightweight Jamaine Ortiz (6-0, 4 KOs) battles 17-fight vet Derrick Murray (13-3-1, 5 KOs) of Saint Louis in a six-round special attraction. One of New England’s hottest prospects, Ortiz is 4-0 in 2017, including a narrow victory over Canton Miller in February and an impressive third-round knockout win over previously-unbeaten Glenn Mitchell in April.

Also representing Worcester, middleweight Kendrick Ball Jr. (8-0-2, 5 KOs) faces Vineland, N.J., native Alshamar Johnson (1-1-1, 1 KO) in a six-round bout and super middleweight prospect Bobby Harris III (1-0) makes his Twin River debut in a four-round bout against Amadeu Cristiano, an accomplished Muay Thai fighter from Sao Paolo, Brazil making his professional boxing debut.

The always-ready Ball Jr. fights for the 11th time since turning pro in May of 2016, an unmatched stretch of productivity for the 6-foot-2, 25-year-old middleweight. He’s won his last four since fighting to a draw with regional rival David Wilson in 2016, defeating opponents with a combined record of 14-2-3.

Providence lightweight Michael Valentin (2-0, 1 KO) returns for the third time since debuting in June, this time facing Efren Nunez of Fall River, Mass., in Nunez’s four-round pro debut. Fighting at Twin River for the first time, super middleweight Jarel Pemberton (1-0) of Boston, the son of regional icon “Sandman” Scott Pemberton, battles Rene Nazare (0-1) of Woburn, Mass., in a four-round bout.

The 26-year-old Pemberton, a former lance corporal for the U.S. Marines who served two tours in Afghanistan, debuted for CES in August with a win over Nathan Schulte. Valentin, the youngest fighter on the card at the age of 18, defeated New Bedford, Mass., native Henry Garcia by unanimous decision in June.

The elder Pemberton joins a handful of CES legends attending next Thursday’s event in celebration of promoter Jimmy Burchfield Sr. and CES’ 25th anniversary, among them former cruiserweight world-title challenger Matt Godfrey of Providence, former five-time women’s world champion Jaime Clampitt of Warwick, R.I., the legendary “Sucra” Ray Oliveria of Fall River, Mass., and former welterweight standout Kippy Diggs of Hyannis, Mass., a two-time regional champion. The “Sandman” won 29 fights, 24 by knockout, in a brilliant, 12-year career.

CES Boxing will also unveil its greatest, most memorable fights of all-time in a special showcase throughout the event, highlighting 25 years as the region’s most influential combat sports promotion.

A former boxing judge and referee and owner of the iconic Classic Restaurant, Burchfield became more heavily involved with the sport after watching Vinny Paz, a fellow Rhode Island native and eventual five-time champion, win the National Sports Festival on ABC’s Wide World of Sports.

Burchfield promoted his first event in 1992 at the Rocky Point Palladium in Warwick, headlined by Oliveira defeating Tomas Rodriguez in the 10-round main event. CES Boxing continued to build champions well into the 21st century; its rich history includes the development of former U.S. Olympian and Providence native Jason Estrada, plus Rhode Island legends Gary Balletto and Peter Manfredo Jr., both of whom rose to fame on The Contender reality television series.

Through the years, Burchfield earned several noteworthy awards, among them the NABF Promoter of the Year, in addition to his 2011 induction into the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame. Burchfield also promoted Oliveira’s epic 2001 showdown against Ben Tackie at Foxwoods Resort Casino, which set a modern-day CompuBox record for most punches thrown, and guided hard-hitting Polish heavyweight Mariusz Wach to the top of the division, culminating in a world-title showdown against Vladimir Klitschko in Germany.

Years later, Burchfield brought Godfrey to Germany to face WBO world cruiserweight champion Marco Huck and guided Philadelphia’s Hank Lundy to No. 1 in the world in the 135-pound division before an eventual championship bout against pound-for-pound king Terence Crawford at Madison Square Garden.

Nearly two decades after Paz knocked out Joe Frazier Jr. in front of a sold-out crowd at the Providence Civic Center (now known as The Dunkin Donuts Center), Burchfield remained in Paz’s corner, guiding the boxing icon to his 50th and final win in 2004. Burchfield also made history in 2010 with the launch of his mixed martial arts division, CES MMA, and promoted Rhode Island’s first sanctioned event at Twin River.

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




Tickets for Groves-Eubank Jr. sold out in seven minutes


It took seven minutes to sell out the Ali Trophy semi-final bout between WBA Super World Champion George Groves (27-3, 20 KOs) and IBO-Champ Chris Eubank Jr. (26-1,20 KOs) at the Manchester Arena on February 17, 2018.

Europe’s largest purpose-built indoor arena will be at capacity to witness what promises to be the biggest Super Middleweight night in years.

“This is a sensational start to the semi-finals of the World Boxing Super Series and the quest for the Muhammad Ali Trophy,” said Roberto Dalmiglio, Comosa’s CEO.

“I said before we went on sale that the fight between Groves and Eubank Jr. represents the boxing event fans cannot afford to miss, and I am happy to say that I was right.”

Said Kalle Sauerland, Comosa’s Chief Boxing Officer: “This is clearly the fight everyone wanted and I am sure this super-fight will capture not only a nation but a generation of fight fans.”

“The build-up is going to be huge and we can’t wait to go to Manchester for a sold out event between two spectacular rivals and world-class fighters.”

“We will work hard over the coming weeks to release extra tickets to meet the huge demand for this fight.”

The build-up to the all-British grudge match begins today when Groves and Eubank Jr. come face-to-face at a kickoff press conference at 2 pm in London.

ITV will be live streaming the press conference on ITV Box Office, YouTube and Facebook.

The Ali Trophy super middleweight semi-final between George Groves and Chris Eubank Jr. will be live on ITV Box Office on February 17.




‘LIGHTENING’ LEE SELBY: “NOTHING RAMIREZ BRINGS CAN SURPRISE ME.”


Welsh wizard Lee Selby intends to cement his standing as the leading light in Britain’s white hot featherweight division by sizzling in the fourth defence of his IBF belt against unbeaten Mexican Eduardo Ramirez at London’s Copper Box Arena on December 9th, live on BT Sport and BoxNation.

In light of GB’s glut of recent world champions, the super slick 30 year old skilster from Barry has largely slipped beneath the radar since a rather underwhelming coronation deep into the Kell Brook-Frankie Gavin undercard at London’s O2 Arena back in May 2015.

The twinkle-toed Taff took his title with an eight round technical decision over Russia’s previously undefeated Evgeny Gradovich but, over the ensuing 31 months, has been restricted to just three defences – albeit against regarded men with combined stats of 116-11-3 – and remains some way down the pecking list of high profile British ring stars.

And that’s a matter that likeable Lee is keen to alter over the coming 18 months or so now that he has renewed his association with Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren.

‘I’m really excited to be back on a Frank Warren show and featuring on such a quality huge card,’ states Selby who has won 25 of 26 paid gigs with nine stoppage victims.

‘You’ve got the slick boxers like (IBF Super-Middle king James) DeGale and myself headlining plus exciting big hitters like Anthony Yarde and Daniel Dubois so there should be something for everybody to enjoy.

‘This is my first fight live on BT Sport so I’ll be tapping into a fresh audience, showcasing my talent to fresh faces, broadening my fan base, hopefully.’

Smooth Selby can expect a stiff argument from his 24 year old challenger, who is yet to meet with defeat in a 23 fight paid career that began, aged 17, in September 2010.

‘Ramirez is a young hungry Mexican who comes from a very good stable, the same gym as my former opponent (five time world champion) Fernando Montiel. I believe he’s coached by Montiel’s brother and dad so they’ll know me well,’ claims the Tony Borg coached champion.

‘He’s an undefeated southpaw and highly ranked by the IBF. From clips I’ve seen, Eduardo’s a similar height as myself, if not taller, so I’ll not enjoy the advantages, I usually have. He can force a fight or go back foot. It’s gonna make for a very good fight.

‘As always, I’ll be fully prepared for whatever Ramirez brings. He’s a Mexican and they usually like to force the pace. He knows he’s unlikely to win the title by outboxing me over here.

‘One of my biggest attributes is that I can adapt on the night. Nothing he brings can surprise me. My record shows I can always make the adjustments needed to win. I always prepare 100% and I’m confident that my class will prevail.’

James DeGale MBE (23-1-1, 14 KOs) tops an unmissable evening of boxing in the capital when he makes the fourth defence of his IBF Super-Middleweight World Title against American Caleb Truax (28-3-2, 18 KOs);

Light-Heavyweight ‘Beast’ Anthony Yarde (13-0, 12 KOs) defends his WBO Intercontinental and European belts against Nikola Sjekloca (32-4-1, 11 KOs), Heavyweight sensation Daniel Dubois (5-0, 5 KOs) aims to continue his KO streak when he faces former Anthony Joshua opponent Dorian Darch (12-5-1, 1 KO) in his sixth contest;

Former English Middleweight Champion Joe Mullender (10-2-0 4 KOs) fights for the Vacant IBF European Middleweight Championship while the hugely-popular former English Welterweight Champion Johnny Garton (20-1-1 7 KOs) fights for the Vacant IBF European Welterweight title;

WBO European Lightweight Champion Craig Evans features in an eight round International contest and rising talents Archie Sharp (Welling), Sanjeev Sahota (Hornchurch), Ben Smith (Wycombe), Hamza Sheeraz (Ilford), Umar Sadiq (Ilford) and debutant Harvey Horn (Chigwell) complete an action-packed night of boxing.

Tickets for The Boys Are Back In Town priced at £40 (Upper Tier), £50 (Lower Tier), £70 (Floor), £100 (Floor), £150 (Floor) and VIP/Hospitality £250 are now on sale via See Tickets, Eventim and Ticketmaster:

See Tickets
0871 230 7148
www.seetickets.com

Eventim
0844 249 1000
www.eventim.co.uk

Ticketmaster
www.ticketmaster.co.uk




FULL CARD ANNOUNCED FOR ONE: WARRIORS OF THE WORLD IN BANGKOK ON 9 DECEMBER

28 November 2017 – Bangkok, Thailand: The largest global sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship™ (ONE), has just announced the full card for ONE: WARRIORS OF THE WORLD, set for 9 December at the Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand. The absolute best in local and international martial arts talent are ready to take the ONE Championship cage by storm to showcase their unique skills. In the main event, reigning ONE Strawweight World Champion Yoshitaka Naito will defend his title against Alex Silva. In the co-main event, Thai martial arts hero Shannon Wiratchai battles Rasul Yakhyaev in a ONE Lightweight World Championship title eliminator.

Ticket information for ONE: WARRIORS OF THE WORLD is available at www.onefc.com.

Chatri Sityodtong, Chairman and CEO of ONE Championship, stated: “Bangkok is among the most thrilling places in the world to visit, because the fans are so passionate and energetic. ONE Championship always has a great time when we are out here. The atmosphere we create at the Impact Arena is unique and you have to experience it yourself. This main event we have lined up is sure to produce fireworks, as Yoshitaka Naito prepares to defend his belt against Alex Silva. Fans will certainly not want to miss all the action that is set for ONE: WARRIORS OF THE WORLD.”

Reigning and defending ONE Strawweight World Champion Yoshitaka “Nobita” Naito of Matsudo, Japan, is unbeaten in his professional career with a perfect 12-0 record. He owns six victories by submission and one by knockout. The 33-year-old, who made a name for himself at Japan’s world famous Korakuen Hall competing for Shooto as its Flyweight Champion, captured the ONE Strawweight World Championship by submitting Dejdamrong Sor Amnuaysirichoke in his promotional debut in 2016. Naito makes the second defense of his strawweight belt against Alex Silva.

Alex “Little Rock” Silva of Sao Paulo, Brazil, is a second-degree black belt and Brazilian jiu-jitsu world champion feared for his relentless pursuit of submission finishes. Silva is riding high on a five-bout winning streak, rapidly climbing ONE Championship’s stacked strawweight ranks. He is a technical grappling specialist with a penchant for securing highlight-reel submissions. With steadily increasing confidence, Silva’s last five victories have all ended in spectacular fashion. In his most recent contest, Silva made quick work of the highly-regarded and previously unbeaten Hayato Suzuki, earning him an opportunity for the ONE Strawweight World Championship.

Shannon “OneShin” Wiratchai of Thailand is one of the most thrilling offensive innovators in ONE Championship. The creator of the OneShin Striking System, Wiratchai developed his own style which incorporates various elements from Muay Thai, boxing, wrestling, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Training out of Tiger Muay Thai and Bangkok Fight Lab, Wiratchai emerges as Thailand’s biggest and most exciting martial arts star. In his last bout, Wiratchai made quick work of Rajinder Singh Meena, stopping his foe with a knee to the abdomen in less than 30 seconds into the first round. Wiratchai seeks to continue his winning ways as he faces Rasul Yakhyaev in the co-main event of the evening.

26-year-old Rasul Yakhyaev of Grozny, Russia, is a lightweight who has racked up a solid following over his seven-year professional career. A jiu-jitsu and combat sambo practitioner, he is adept in both striking and mat techniques, and is considered a solid contender with tremendous combat skills. A well-rounded warrior, four of Yakhyaev’s victories have come by submission while three have come by knockout. After establishing a name for himself in Eastern Europe, he made his ONE Championship debut in December of 2015, and now seeks to take his career to the next level against Shannon Wiratchai.

19-year-old Christian “The Warrior” Lee, younger brother of reigning ONE Women’s Atomweight World Champion “Unstoppable” Angela Lee, began his professional career on an absolute tear, railing off five straight victories by thrilling finish. He has impressed fans with his ability to seek out stoppage wins over top-caliber opponents. A former Pankration World Champion, Lee toppled fellow top featherweight Keanu Subba of Malaysia in his most recent bout, winning by third-round submission in a competitive contest to improve his record to 7-1. Known as a creative and fluid striker with unorthodox grappling technique, Lee is now set to face veteran Kotetsu Boku.

Kotetsu “No Face” Boku, although originally from South Korea, is a Japanese martial arts veteran and the former ONE Lightweight World Champion. With more than 30 professional bouts on his resume, Boku has the experience of a seasoned professional and has seen it all inside the cage. Always a crowd pleaser, Boku utilizes his dynamic boxing background with stunning knockout power to subdue his opponents. In his last bout, Boku finished elite Filipino warrior Eric Kelly by third-round technical knockout. He’ll now get the chance to put on a show once again opposite Christian Lee.

Former ONE Strawweight World Champion Dejdamrong Sor Amnuaysirichoke is a three-time Lumpinee Stadium Muay Thai world champion who has a 8-2 professional record as a martial artist. He is known as a technical striker with quick hands and lightning feet, employing some of the most unique and creative offensive combinations. As a martial artist with over 25 years of competitive experience, Dejdamrong is a seasoned veteran. In his last bout, Dejdamrong took on the Philippines’ Robin Catalan to bag a second-round technical knockout victory. Next, the Thai warrior goes up against Riku Shibuya.

Japanese martial arts sensation Riku “The Outsider” Shibuya won the hearts of fans with his exciting, unorthodox style and powerful combinations. With a professional record of 13-4-2, Shibuya has figured in a series of exciting battles throughout his martial arts career. A former ONE Flyweight World Championship title challenger, Shibuya is a veteran and easily one of the most enjoyable competitors to watch. After a short recuperative break in competition, Shibuya returned to the ONE Championship cage against Gianni Subba last August. Shibuya now looks to take on Dejdamrong Sor Amnuaysirichoke in what should be an intense matchup.

Rika “Tinydoll” Ishige is a 28-year-old female atomweight from Thailand who trains out of Tiger Muay Thai and Bangkok Fight Lab. She is of mixed Japanese and Thai heritage, beginning her martial arts training at age 9 with aikido and taekwondo. Heavily influenced by her late father who trained in judo, Ishige went on to hone her skills as a martial artist, and turned professional earlier this year. All of Ishige’s victories have ended via impressive finish, showcasing her high-level grappling skills. Ishige looks to get back on the winning track when she takes on Rome Trinidad.

20-year-old Rome “The Rebel” Trinidad of Manila, Philippines is set to make her ONE Championship debut. The atomweight competitor is a practitioner of Sikaran, an ancient martial arts discipline which originated from Rizal province in the Philippines. With no written history, Sikaran was passed on from generation to generation by succession. A former National Sikaran Champion training out of Elorde Gym, Trinidad is ready to showcase her skills to the world. She takes on Thai martial arts star Rika Ishige in her first assignment.

“The Panda” Xiong Jingnan of Shandong is an upcoming female flyweight contender in ONE Championship, and is known as one of the top three leading female martial arts talents in China. With a professional record of 9-1, Xiong began her career competing in professional boxing and was inspired by her father, who imparted in her values of courage and integrity. Featuring a wide array of skills, Xiong recently bagged a gold medal at the prestigious China Open Brazilian jiu-jitsu tournament in 2017. With a penchant for scoring highlight reel finishes and executing powerful slams, Xiong has chosen to join ONE Championship as the ultimate test of her skills. Training at Phuket Top Team, and representing Alliance China, Xiong aims to showcase her martial arts talent to a global audience. She faces the Philippines’ April Osenio in her ONE Championship debut.

Atomweight standout April Osenio of the Philippines is a member of the famed Team Lakay and is one of its fiercest female warriors. The 23-year-old trains out of the high altitudes of Baguio City along with her more experienced Team Lakay brothers, such as Honorio “The Rock” Banario and Eduard “Landslide” Folayang. A former National Wushu Champion in the Philippines with solid striking and grappling skills, Osenio looks to climb the atomweight ladder to become one of the top talents in the division. In her last bout, Osenio dropped a submission loss to Taiwan’s Jenny Huang, who went on to challenge for the world title. She now seeks redemption, as she steps into the ONE Championship cage against Xiong Jingnan.

30-year-old Sagetdao “Deadly Star” Petpayathai is a Muay Thai specialist and a four-time Lumpinee Stadium champion who has won every major title in Muay Thai. Concluding his Muay Thai career with a record of 162-62-1, Petpayathai made his professional cage debut last March at home in Bangkok, defeating Malaysia’s Kelvin Ong via first-round technical knockout. Voted by Thai media as one of the greatest Muay Thai practitioners in history, Petpayathai is known for his highly technical knowledge in all of Muay Thai’s varied techniques. In his last bout, Petpayathai finished Mahmoud Mohamed via first-round technical knockout. Petpayathai will be taking on Jimmy Yabo next.

36-year-old Jimmy “The Silencer” Yabo is a former Cebuano Featherweight Champion from the Philippines and a veteran of the ONE Championship cage. The martial artist boasts one of the best finishing percentages in the division, having stopped all five of his opponents by either knockout or technical knockout. Although Yabo has experienced highs and lows throughout his career, the dedicated martial artist is looking to add one more to the win column. A taekwondo and boxing specialist, Yabo will have to go through talented Muay Thai star Sagetdao Petpayathai to earn the victory.

Former WBA Boxing World Champion Yodsanan “Little Tyson” Sityodtong of Thailand is known as a devastatingly powerful puncher, with the ability to utilize his heavy hands to stop foes with trademark combinations. With 47 knockouts in boxing and all three of his victories inside the ONE Championship cage ending in similar fashion, expect Sityodtong to always be on the lookout for an abrupt ending to his contests. Currently riding a two-bout winning streak, Sityodtong will be going for win number three against Dodi Mardian.

Indonesia’s Dodi “The Maung” Mardian is a former Silat practitioner and an Indonesian combat sports veteran. A practitioner of Muay Thai and sanda, Mardian made his cage debut in 2016 after deciding to showcase his talent on the biggest stage of competition. The 33-year-old is looking to make a name for himself in ONE Championship, as he seeks to put his skills to the test in Asia’s toughest proving ground for martial arts. In his next contest, Mardian will take on Yodsanan Sityodtong.

Strawweight contender Kritsada “Dream Man” Kongsrichai of Thailand is a martial artist and one of the most promising young athletes in ONE Championship. He made his promotional debut in ONE’s first ever show in Bangkok in 2016, stopping opponent Kev Hemmorlor via first-round technical knockout. In his last outing, Kongsrichai made quick work of Indonesia’s Adrian Matheis, finishing his opponent via first-round technical knockout. Kongsrichai is now set to return to the ONE Championship cage to give another spectacular performance, this time against Rabin Catalan.

31-year-old Rabin “The Rock” Catalan of Iloilo City, Philippines, is a wushu practitioner and a well-rounded martial artist. Featuring heavy hands and lightning quick feet, Catalan made his first ONE Championship appearance against Filipino compatriot Joshua Pacio in April of 2016, showcasing tremendous heart and determination. A powerful striker, Catalan will step back inside the ONE Championship cage looking for victory against Thai standout Kritsada Kongsrichai.

25-year-old Tang De Pan of Changsha, China is a Sanda practitioner and is currently unbeaten as a professional in martial arts. A former Chinese National Wrestling Champion, Tang is highly-aggressive and relentless, always looking for the quick finish. Making his ONE Championship debut in January of 2016, Tang defeated countryman Zhou Biao with a highlight-reel knockout by slamming his opponent emphatically to the mat. Tang now returns to competition after a recuperative break to face Asraful Islam.

21-year-old bantamweight Asraful “Warrior” Islam of Dhaka, Bangladesh, is a martial artist making his professional debut. With an amateur career that saw him go a perfect 2-0, Islam is the former UFI Bantamweight Champion. Specializing in wushu, boxing, Muay Thai, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Islam is incredibly well-rounded and is ready to put his skills on full display. A former National Wushu Champion in Bangladesh, Islam makes his ONE Championship debut against Tang De Pan.

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

About ONE Championship™
ONE Championship is the largest global sports media property in Asian history. Headquartered in Singapore, ONE Championship is the home of martial arts. The world’s most exciting martial arts organization hosts the largest sports entertainment events across Asia, featuring some of the world’s best martial artists and world champions, all signed to exclusive contracts, on the largest media broadcast in Asia. In addition to its digital platforms, ONE Championship broadcasts to over 1 billion potential viewers across 128+ countries around the world with some of the largest global broadcasters, including Fox Sports, ABS-CBN, Astro, ClaroSports, Bandsports, Startimes, Premier Sports, Thairath TV, Skynet, Mediacorp, OSN, and more.




Sugar Promotions Postpones New Blood Card in Aguascalientes, Mexico

AGUASCALIENTES, MX (November 27, 2017) – Sugar Promotions will postpone their 8-fight card titled “New Blood”, which was scheduled for this Saturday, December 2, due to main event fighter Issac “Canelito” Avelar (13-0, 8 KOs) suffering a minor hand injury. The show was scheduled to take place in Aguascalientes, Mexico but will now be tentatively rescheduled for February 2, 2018 at the same venue.

Issac “Canelito” Avelar, who fights for Prince Ranch Boxing, was set to fight for the WBC FECOMBOX Featherweight title against Alfredo Mejia Vargas (7-1, 1 KO) is looking to stay active during his time off.

“Although I won’t be able to spar and use my right hand, I’ll still be able to work on my jab and other aspects of my game,” said Avelar. “In addition, I’ll continue to stay in great shape. This is a just minor setback, but I’ll be back stronger than ever.”

“Canelito is a big star in Aguascalientes, Mexico where he was born and raised.” Oscar Vazquez, president of Sugar Promotions stated. “We were on our way to selling out this show. It’s unfortunate that he got injured, but this happens in boxing. We will look to be back here in Aguascalientes next year sometime in early February.”

Prince Ranch Boxing’s (PRB) fighters, super-flyweight Damien “Sugar” Vazquez (12-0, 6 KOs), super-featherweight Edwing Davila (16-0, 9 KOs), featherweight Victor Pasillas (11-0, 4 KOs), super-lightweight Blair Cobbs (7-0, 4 KOs), light-heavyweight Kye Brooks (1-0, 1 KO), super welterweight Daniel Biaz (10-1, 5 KOs) and female flyweight Mayran Salazar (6-2), who were all scheduled to fight on December 2nd, will now look to fight on other cards.

“December 2nd was looking great and I’m happy with Sugar Promotions,” said Greg Hannely, CEO of Prince Ranch Boxing. “Although the card was postponed, it doesn’t take away my excitement for doing shows in Aguascalientes, Mexico.”




LUCAS ‘LA MAQUINA’ MATTHYSSE AND JORGE ‘EL NINO DE ORO’ LINARES TO KICK OFF 2018 WITH A BANG IN TWO WORLD TITLE FIGHTS AT LOS ANGELES’ ‘FABULOUS’ FORUM


LOS ANGELES (Nov. 27, 2017): Two of the world’s most exciting fighters, Lucas “La Maquina” Matthysse (38-4, 35 KOs) and Jorge “El Nino De Oro” Linares (43-3, 27 KOs), will kick off the 2018 boxing year with a bang as they compete in separate world championship bouts on Saturday, Jan. 27, 2018 at the “Fabulous” Forum in Inglewood, California. This special double main event will be televised live on HBO Boxing After Dark beginning at 10:20 p.m. ET/PT.

The first co-main event will see the 35-year-old Matthysse, an absolutely thunderous puncher out of Chubut, Argentina, facing undefeated Thai superstar Tewa Kiram (38-0. 28 KOs) in a 12-round battle for the vacant WBA Welterweight World Championship.

“I am honored to be able to fight for a world championship in just my second fight at welterweight,” said Matthysse, a former interim world champion at 140 pounds who has defeated the likes of former two-division champion Lamont “Havoc” Peterson, formerWBO Junior Welterweight Champion Ruslan “The Siberian Rocky” Provodnikov and former three-division titlist Humberto “La Zorrita” Soto. “I understand I am facing a younger, undefeated opponent, but I am confident that ‘The Machine’ will emerge victorious.”

Since turning pro at the age of 15, Kiram has torn through an astounding 38 opponents, with 28 of them never hearing the final bell. He won the interim PABA Welterweight Championship in just his sixth fight and defended it – and the full PABA Welterweight title – more than 30 times over seven years. This will mark his first fight outside of Thailand.

“I understand not many people know me in the U.S., but they are in for a big surprise on Jan. 27,” Kiram said. “I have never been defeated, and I am fully confident that I will return to Thailand with the WBA Welterweight World Championship around my waist.”

In the second co-main event, Linares, a 32-year-old Venezuelan considered one of the top fighters in the world, will make his second trip to the ‘Fabulous’ Forum in a row to defend his multiple lightweight world championships against the once-defeated Mercito “No Mercy” Gesta (31-1-2, 17 KOs).

“I have travelled all over the world to win and defend my titles, and I am looking forward to having my hand raised in victory once again in America,” said Linares, the three-division world champion who holds victories over world champions and contenders such as Anthony “Million Dollar” Crolla, Kevin “Mighty” Mitchell and Gamaliel “El Platano” Diaz. “I know that Gesta has speed and power, but he hasn’t been at this level before, and on Jan. 27, he’ll know what it’s like to face a world champion.”

Gesta, a 30-year-old from the Philippines, has not tasted defeat in six fights, beating quality opponents including Gilberto “El Flaco” Gonzalez and former contender Martin “El Brochas” Honorio. Gesta is getting his second shot at a world championship more than five years after dropping a unanimous decision to Miguel “Titere” Vazquez for the IBF World Lightweight Championship.

“I know firsthand how long it takes to get a shot at a world championship, and I will not allow this opportunity to pass me by,” Gesta said. “I understand Linares is a great fighter, but I know I have the skills, speed, power, and great coaching which will get my hand raised in victory.”

“What a way to kick of 2018 – with two of the top fighters in the sport taking on younger, hungry challengers,” said Oscar De La Hoya, CEO and Chairman of Golden Boy Promotions. “It’s not often you get two main events on one card, but that is what we will have on Jan. 27 at the “Fabulous” Forum. This card will help keep the momentum that boxing established in 2017.”

“This is a very important fight for Argentine boxing, for Lucas Matthysse and for Arano Box,” said Mario Arano of Arano Boxing. “Matthysse is ready to be a world champion, and we are more than sure that his win will make huge waves throughout the entirety of the Republic of Argentina and South America.”

“Thailand has never had a Welterweight World champion before,” said Taweesin Terry Laosuwanwat, Manager and Promoter of Kiram. “We are making history here, and Tewa [Kiram] will do anything to win this fight. Tewa has never lost before, and he will keep his undefeated record against Matthysse.”

The remainder of the undercard and the ticket information for this stacked event will be announced shortly.

Matthysse vs. Kiram is a 12-round fight for the vacant WBA Welterweight World Championship, and is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Arano Box and Galaxy Promotions. Linares vs. Gesta, a 12-round fight for the WBA, WBC Diamond and Ring Magazine Lightweight World Championships is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Teiken Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING.” This special double main event will be held on Saturday, Jan. 27, 2018 at The ‘Fabulous’ Forum in Inglewood, California and will be televised live on HBO Boxing After Dark beginning at 10:20 p.m. ET/PT.

Photos and videos are available to download by clicking hereor copying and pasting the link http://bit.ly/MatthysseKiram into a browser. Credit must be given to Golden Boy Promotions for photos and videos used.

For more information visit www.goldenboypromotions.comand www.hbo com/boxing, follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @hboboxing; become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing; visit us on Instagram at @GoldenBoyBoxing; and follow the conversation using #MatthysseKiram.

About The Forum
The award-winning “Fabulous” Forum, located in Inglewood, CA, is the largest indoor performance venue in the country designed with a focus on music and entertainment, in addition to select sporting events. The interior of the bowl features flexible seating that ranges from 17,500 seats to 7,000 seats, enabling the venue to attract a wide variety of premier events. Fans at the Forum enjoy approximately 8,000 square feet of event level hospitality offerings, including merchandise, along with food and beverage options from some of SoCal’s most celebrated brands. A tinted glass wall separates this concession area from the arena, ensuring fans do not miss a moment of the performance. A 40,000 square foot outdoor terrace surrounds the perimeter of the building and offers food and beverage options, as well as comfortable furnishings, to further elevate guests’ enjoyment. The Forum delivers a one-of-a-kind experience for all thanks to its superior acoustics, intimate ambiance and state-of-the-art facilities. Designed with entertainers and performers in mind, the venue includes nine, star-caliber dressing rooms that provide unparalleled comfort. The Forum is part of The Madison Square Garden Company’s portfolio of iconic venues, which also includes: New York’s Madison Square Garden, The Theater at Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall and Beacon Theatre; The Chicago Theatre; and the Wang Theatre in Boston. For more information, please visit www.fabulousforum.com.




Tyrone Brunson looking for big effort against Manny Woods this Friday night


Philadelphia, PA (November 27, 2017) – Junior Middleweight Tyrone Brunson is looking for a major opportunity in 2018.

Brunson of Philadelphia will first need to get past Manny Woods this Friday night at the 2300 Arena in the ten-round main event of a loaded 12 bout card that is promoted by King’s Promotions.

The 32 year-old is coming off the biggest when of his career when he stopped former two-time world champion Kermit Cintron in five rounds. The sure-fire Philadelphia Fight of the Year saw Brunson climb off the canvas twice before dropping Cintron three times in the pivotal round five.

“The fight fight gave me a lot of confidence,” said Brunson. “To do what I did against Cintron who is a two-time world champion. I am ready for Friday night.”

Despite not having a lot of knowledge of Woods, Brunson expects a great performance.

“I really don’t much about him, but I am not overlooking him. I have had a great training camp, and now I am just winding it down.”

“I am looking for a big year in 2018. With a win on Friday, I am looking to face someone in the top ten or top fifteen, but the goal is to be number-one in this stacked division. I just want to thank my promoter King’s Promotions, the fans who have stuck by me, and even all the critics to that know that Tyrone Brunson is coming.”

In the potentially explosive eight-round co-feature, Brandon Robinson (7-1, 6 KOs) takes on Christopher Brooker (12-4, 5 KOs) in a super middleweight battle of fighters from Philadelphia.

Jaron Ennis (16-0, 14 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on George Sosa (15-10-1, 15 KOs) of Reading, PA in a eight round welterweight bout.

Omar Douglas (17-2, 12 KOs) of Wilmington, DE battles Martin Cardona (22-9, 14 KOs) of Guadalajara, MEX in a eight-round super featherweight bout.

Kyrone Davis (12-1, 5 KOs) of Wilmington. DE fights Jaime Barbosa (19-12, 9 KOs) of San Jose, Costa Rica in a eight-round middleweight bout.

Joe Hanks (21-2, 15 KOs) of Newark, NJ fights undefeated Joel Caudle (7-0-1, 5 KOs) of Raleigh, NC in a heavyweight tussle.

In a six-round super bantamweight affair, Marcus Bates (7-0-1, 6 KOs) of Washington, DC fights Antonio Rodriguez (11-19-1, 5 KOs) of Durango, MX.

In four-round bouts:

Shamsuddeen Justice (1-0) of Philadelphia will fight Latorie Woodberry (1-5-1) of Roanoke, VA in a junior welterweight bout.

Rasheed Johnson (2-1,1 KO) of Philadelphia, PA squares of with Kashon Hutchinson (3-3-1, 2 Kos) of Reading, PA in a welterweight contest.

Undefeated heavyweight Colby Madison (4-0-1, 3 KOs) of Owings Mills, MD fights Randy Easton (4-9-2, 4 KOs) of Sunbury, PA.

Romuel Cruz of Philadelphia will make his pro debut against Rondarrius Hunter (1-1, 1 KO) of Atlanta, GA in a super bantamweight bout.

Christopher Burgos (0-1) of Philadelphia battles Gerardo Tiburcio (1-0, 1 KO) of Coatesville, PA in a lightweight fight.

VIP TICKETHOLDERS WILL HAVE A SPECIAL MEET AND GREET AT 5 PM ON FIGHT NIGHT. THAT WILL INCLUDE SPECIAL DRINK SPECIALS ($3 DRAFT BEER, $5 CITYWIDE SPECIALS WHICH INCLUDES A SHOT OF WHISKEY AND DRAT BEER AS WELL AS $4 MARGARITAS OR GLASS OF WINE FOR LADIES)

THERE WILL BE A PRESS CONFERENCE ON WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29TH AT THE 2300 ARENA.

THE WEIGH IN WILL TAKE PLACE ON THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30TH AT 6 PM AT THE 2300 ARENA




JOSÉ “WONDER BOY” LÓPEZ TO TAKE ON AVERY SPARROW IN NEW CO-MAIN EVENT OF NOV. 30 EDITION OF GOLDEN BOY BOXING ON ESPN AT MGM NATIONAL HARBOR


LOS ANGELES (Nov. 27, 2017) Super featherweight contender José “Wonder Boy” López (18-1-1, 13 KOs) of Carolina, Puerto Rico will now take on Avery Sparrow (8-1, 3 KOs) in the new co-main event of the Nov. 30 edition of Golden Boy Boxing on ESPN at the MGM National Harbor in Maryland. The event will also feature the headlining debut of Lamont Roach, Jr. (15-0, 6 KOs) as he defends his WBC Youth Super Featherweight Title against Rey “Flash” Pérez (21-8, 6 KOs) in the 10-round main event. ESPN3 (English) and ESPN Deportes (Spanish) will air the fights live at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT. Undercard will stream on ESPN3 at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT. ESPN2 will air the fight at 11 p.m.ET/8 p.m. PT.

López, a 23-year-old contender who is coming off a four-fight win streak, has earned two regional titles since making his debut in Sept. 2011. In 2014, Lopez defeated veteran Leivi Brea to win the Interim WBC Fecarbox Super Bantamweight Title via first-round technical knockout. Two years later, López captured the WBO International Super Featherweight Title by defeating Edgar López Sasso via stunning second-round knockout. López was originally scheduled to fight against Miguel “Miguelito” González, but González was forced to pull out due to an injury suffered in his left arm when sparring.

Sparrow, who is also 23-years-old will took to take advantage of his first co-main event opportunity. The Philadelphian is coming off a four-fight win streak, defeating two undefeated prospects in his last two fights.

Fairfield, California’s Manuel “Tino” Ávila (22-1, 8 KOs) will take on Nick Otieno (31-12, 13 KOs) of Nairobi, Kenya in an eight-round featherweight fight. Ávila will return after his only defeat, which was in a tough battle against Joseph Diaz, Jr. on the Canelo vs. Chávez Jr. undercard in May of this year. The featherweight contender is looking to get back into the 126-pound mix before the year ends.

In the night’s swing bout, George Rincón (2-0) of Dallas, Texas will take on Jihad Wise (3-3, 1 KO) of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in a four-round 140-pound clash. Rincón’s brother, Alex Rincón, was originally scheduled to be in the swing bout, but the welterweight prospect who is currently signed to Golden Boy Promotions was forced to pull out and undergo surgery as he has been diagnosed with appendicitis.

Luther Smith (9-1, 8 KOs) of Alexandria, Virginia will open the night of boxing in a four-round bout in the cruiserweight division against an opponent that will be announced shortly.

Roach, Jr. vs. Pérez is a 10-round super featherweight fight for the WBC Youth Super Featherweight Title and is presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING” and Hennessy “Never Stop, Never Settle.” ESPN3 (English) and ESPN Deportes (Spanish) will air the fights live from MGM National Harbor at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT. ESPN2 will air the fight at 11 p.m. ET/ 8 p.m. PT.

Tickets for Roach, Jr. vs Pérez are on sale and are priced at $75 VIP, $75, $55 and $35, not including taxes or fees. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call the Ticketmaster Contact Center at (800) 745-3000. Tickets will also be available for purchase online at www.ticketmaster.com and www.goldenboytickets.com.

Media interested in attending Golden Boy Boxing on ESPN: Roach, Jr. vs. Pérez must be pre-approved for credentials. Credential applications are due Monday, Nov. 27, 2017 at 5:00 p.m., Click here to apply for a media credential. Submitting an application does not guarantee approval for a credential. You cannot transfer your credentials to someone else. Media will not be credentialed on-site, no exceptions.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and http://www.espn.com/boxing/; follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @OscarDeLaHoya, @ESPN, and @ESPNBoxeo; become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing; and follow on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing and @OscarDeLaHoya. Follow the conversation using #GBPonESPN.

Photos and videos are available to download by clicking here. Credit must be given to Golden Boy Promotions for photos and videos used.




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EVANDER HOLYFIELD AND BOB ARUM HEADLINE 2018 ATLANTIC CITY BOXING HALL OF FAME CLASS


Atlantic City, N.J. – November 27, 2017 – Evander Holyfield and Bob Arum headline the 2018 inductees into the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame.

The Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame (ACBHOF) has announced its 25 member 2018 Induction Class, which also includes President Donald J. Trump. This epic event will take place at The Claridge, a Radisson Hotel located at Park Place & Boardwalk in Atlantic City, New Jersey on June 1 – 3, 2018.

Atlantic City, New Jersey Mayor-Elect Frank M. Gilliam Jr. commented, “The future of boxing in Atlantic City is brighter than ever. Being the newly elected Mayor of the City of Atlantic City, New Jersey it gives me great honor to be a part of bringing the 2nd Annual Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Weekend back to our Great City. I believe boxing and Atlantic City has always been a natural fit and we see it returning to its glory days, and under my administration, we plan on welcoming it back wholeheartedly: Congratulations to the ACBHOF “2018” Inductees!”

The Claridge Hotel serves as the signature Corporate Sponsor for this knockout weekend, “The Claridge is proud to be in partnership with the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame and to continue to promote professional boxing’s exceptional history in Atlantic City,” says Cem Erenler, Vice President/ Operations & Business Development for TMJ Properties, the owner and developer of The Claridge. The iconic hotel, which is now part of the global Radisson brand first opened in 1930. “Hosting this signature event is in the best traditions of The Claridge, which for more than 80 years has been Atlantic City’s center for exciting events in sports and entertainment,” Mr. Erenler said.

The 2018 inductees in the Fighter category are:

Evander Holyfield
Héctor Camacho (posthumous)
Bruce Seldon
Bobby Czyz
Jeff Chandler
Ray Mercer
Vinny Paz
Richie Kates

Trainer and Cutmen
Carmen Graziano
George Benton
Ralph Citro

Non-Participants
Bob Arum
Dan Duva
Diane Fischer-Cristiano
Ed Derian
Jean Williams
Joseph Pasquale
Jersey Joe Walcott
Bernard Fernandez
Dave Weinberg
Ray Bailey
Jose Sulaiman
Marian Muhammad
Mark Etess
President Donald J. Trump




Olympic medalist Nico Hernandez injured, “KO Night Boxing: Gold & Glory” postponed

PARK CITY, Kansas (November 27, 2017) – Due to an injury suffered by 2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez last week at training camp, this Saturday night’s “KO Night Boxing: Gold & Glory” card, presented by KO Night Boxing LLC, has been postponed until February 10, at the same venue, Hartman Arena in Park City, Kansas.

The 21-year-old Hernandez was scheduled to headline the event in his hometown against Hungarian flyweight champion Jozsef “Little Red” Ajtai (19-9, 12 KOs) in the eight-round main event for the vacant International Boxing Association (IBA) Americas flyweight championship.

The promoter plans to keep the card intact, as much as possible, and he is hopeful that Ajtai is available to challenge Hernandez for the IBA Americas title.

“Injuries are an unfortunate part of boxing, but the good news is that Nico will be 100-percent ready to go February 10th,” promoter John Andersen said. “I know that Nico feels that he’s letting everybody down but, at the end of the day, all that really counts is his health. He’s a tough kid who has his entire pro career ahead of him.”

“Over the last six months, Nico has become like family to the Hartman Arena staff,” said Hartman Arena Executive Director, Ben Bolander. “We wish the best for him and hope for a speedy recovery, so we can see him back here in February fighting for the title.”

TIckets to the December 2nd event will still be honored at the February 10 event. If ticket holders, are unable to attend the new event date, full refunds will be offered at the point of purchase. Tickets will remain on sale for the February 10, 2018 event date.

INFORMATION:

https://www.hartmanarena.com/events/upcoming-events/1.html, www.internationalboxingassociation.com

Twitter: @KONightBoxing, @IBABoxing

Facebook: /NeonStar, /IBABoxing

Follow @Nicomhernandez on Twitter and Instagram
About Neon Star Sports & Entertainment (NSSE)
NSSE is a content company whose focus is creating original and joint venter media properties – unscripted, scripted, events and digital programming – for cross-platform distribution. Visit us on Twitter @NeonstarSE or Facebook www.facebook.com/NeonStarSE. KO Night Boxing, LLC, is a subsidiary company of Neon Star Sports & Entertainment Inc.

About Hartman Arena
Hartman Arena, with a total seating capacity of 6,750, is the home to great live entertainment, indoor sports and community events, and is managed by VenuWorks, America’s emerging leader in venue management.

About VenuWorks
VenuWorks is a leader in venue management, providing customized solutions for multi-purpose sports, entertainment and recreation facilities, theatres and conference and convention centers throughout the country, offering full service management services including operations, event booking and marketing. VenuWorks is headquartered in Ames, IA and was founded in 1996. For more information, please visit www.venuworks.com




SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION DAVID BENAVIDEZ RENEWS PROMOTIONAL CONTRACT WITH SAMPSON BOXING


Sampson Lewkowicz proudly announces that budding superstar, and WBC World Super Middleweight Champion, David “El Bandera Roja / Red Flag” has renewed his exclusive Sampson Boxing promotional agreement.

20-year-old Benavidez (19-0, 17 KOs), became the youngest super middleweight world champion in boxing history by winning a split decision over Romania’s Ronald Gavril last September. The Phoenix-based slugger says he’s happy to continue his promotional relationship with Lewkowicz.

“Sampson is a great promoter and he’s done a lot for me,” said Benavidez. “He’s always treated me and my team with respect and I was eager to re-sign with him. I can’t wait to defend my title against the best and become the great fighter I am with Sampson on my team.”

Father, co-manager and trainer Jose Benavidez says signing with Sampson was an easy decision for Team Benavidez.

“We are all really happy and excited,” he said. “We started with Sampson and he’s done a tremendous job. We are super satisfied with what he’s done and where we are at. We didn’t even think twice about it. I think when this contract ends, we’ll sign another one with him.”

Co-manager David Garcia says continuing with Sampson Boxing means more big fights are on the horizon for the young champion.

“Sampson has been good to work with and David became a world champion within two years of signing with him, so we’re very excited to be able to continue that. Davis is a phenomenal talent. He is eager to take on the best in the division and then move up or down in weight and continue to dominate other champions.”

“I’m very proud to continue working with this wonderful team,” said Sampson Lewkowicz. “David, Jose Sr. and David Garcia are always gentlemen and very easy to work with. David has a long, distinguished career ahead of him and it’s an honor to be a part of his rise to the top of boxing.”
About Sampson Boxing
After a very successful run as a matchmaker and adviser, Sampson Lewkowicz switched over to the promotional side of professional boxing in January 2008.

Sampson Boxing has grown into one of the world’s most prestigious promotional firms, representing many of the world’s best fighters and most promising young contenders.

Sampson Boxing has promotional partners all over North and South America, Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe and Central America and Sampson Boxing events have been televised on such premiere networks as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, VS. and several international networks.




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Arkansas lets HIV-Positive fighter compete in bout

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, the state of Arkansas let an HIV-Positive fighter compete in a bout on November 11th.

ABC president Mike Mazzulli told ESPN on Monday that he called the health department in Arkansas, which is involved in overseeing medical exams for boxers in the state, to inform the state of about the fighter’s HIV-positive status.

“I personally called a representative of the health department and informed them of the concerns related to them having a fighter on a card with HIV,” said Mazzulli, adding he knows the identity of the fighter, but did not want to make it public in order to protect the person’s medical privacy. “They said to me, ‘The fighters on the card will be tested.’ My assumption was that they were not tested because the individual fought. This individual is suspended in Florida because of a positive HIV test and it was submitted to [official boxing record-keeper] Fight Fax, our federal registry, which is required by federal law.”

“The Department asked for and acquired blood work prior to the fight for all fighters on the card that evening. All fighters provided test results that indicated all tested negative for HIV,” Robert Brech, general counsel for the Arkansas Department of Health, told ESPN in an email. “The matter is under further investigation at this time.”

“If Arkansas had checked the suspension list, this individual would not have fought because this individual was suspended in Florida,” Mazzulli said. “On the Fight Fax it states, ‘Fighter is suspended, please contact Florida commission.’ If they followed proper protocol the fighter would not have been able to fight in Arkansas even if the fighter was tested, because our national registry states he was on suspension. The suspension can only be removed by Florida.”

according to the Arkansas regulations ‘a positive test for the presence of infectious diseases shall result in an immediate suspension of the licensee’s license.’ Thus under the regulations, since Arkansas had actual knowledge of the HIV positive result, the fighter should not have been allowed to engage in a bout and his license should have been suspended.”

Mazzulli posed a few questions in his letter that he said Arkansas officials have not answered:

• Why was an HIV positive fighter allowed to compete?

• Were the opponent, referee and cornermen informed so they could make an informed choice as to whether to participate in the event? Have they been informed to date?

• Was the physician who cleared the boxer to fight informed of his HIV-positive status?

• Did the fighter lie on his license application? (A secondary question, as the commission reportedly had actual knowledge of his tests from Florida.)

“This is one of the most flagrant health and safety violations and may be even a violation of Arkansas’ statute regarding immunodeficiency,” Mazzulli wrote. “This situation is one of the most serious we have seen in many years, and hence we feel compelled to bring this matter to your attention. … Please allow the ABC to assist Arkansas in insuring such a violation does not ever happen again.”




BEJENARU WINS IN WBC INTERNATIONAL TITLE DEFENSE AT “SLUGFEST AT THE SUN”

Uncasville, CT, November 26, 2017

Last night, Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing presented another rendition of the “Slugfest at The Sun” series at the Mohegan Sun arena in Uncasville, CT. The card was headlined by Crusierweights Constantin Bejenaru and Thabiso Mchunu who fought for Bejenaru’s WBC International Cruiserweight title in a 10 round bout.

Bejenaru came away with a unanimous decision victory over Mchunu, the mandatory challenger, defending his WBC International title sucessfully. The bout often times saw each fighter playing the game if cat and mouse with one another. There was a brief explosion by Bejenaru in round 7 as he dropped Mchunu with a picture perfect left cross but Bejenaru couldn’t capitalize on his opportunity to knockout Mchunu. In the end the scores were 98-91 and 97-92 twice, all in favor of Bejenaru who improves to 13-0 3KO’S while Mchunu drops to 18-4 11KO’S.

The undercard certainly thrilled the crowd of some 3500 people at the Mohegan Sun arena, who were on their feet often throughout this exciting night of action.

The semi-final saw a shocking result as previously undefeated Queens, NY native Daniel Gonzalez suffered his first defeat as a pro at the hands of Framingham, MA native, Danny O’Connor in a bout scheduled for 10 rounds with the vacant WBC Interntional Silver Super Lightweight title at stake.

The fight was a barn burner from the opening bell as both fighters traded freely much to the delight of the crowd. O’Connor had the edge in the 1st round but Gonzalez opened a nasty cut over O’Connor’s left eye in round 2 as both fighters continued the torrid pace. Round 3 saw Gonzalez picking up where he left off in round 2 until a perfectly placed left hand by O’Connor found its mark on Gonzalez dropping the Queens native who gamely arose but was in no shape to continue forcing referee Steve Willis to call a halt to the action at 0:39 seconds of the 3rd round. O’Connor ups his record to 29-3 11KO’S and in the process wins the WBC International Silver Super Lightweight title while Gonzalez drops to 14-1-1 5KO’s.

Hometown favorite Anthony Laureano won a hard fought majority 6 round decision over Johnny Hernandez by scores of 58-56 twice, and 57-57 in a Jr. Welterweight fight. Laureano, who hails from nearby East Hartford, CT and Hernandez who calls Bayshore, NY his home, fought a fast pace, highly skilled fight that had the fans on their feet cheering throughout. There was little to separate the 2 fighters as they engaged each other freely over the course of the fight. Laureano improves to 6-0 3KO’S while Hernandez drops to 8-3 1KO.

A special attraction 6 round female Middleweight fight between Kali Reis and Tiffany Woodard brought the house down. Reis, who had a huge following in attendance, started fast, throwing bombs with both hands landing flush on the chin of Woodard who showed an incredibly strong chin as well as a huge heart as she tried to fend off the assault of Reis. The action was non- stop throughout the fight and by the time the 6th and final was coming to an end the crowd was in an absolute frenzy. The 2 fighters received a well deserved standing ovation as Reis came away with the unanimous victory by scores of 60-54, 60-53, and 59-55. Reis improves to 13-6-1 4KO’S while the tough Woodard drops to 4-9-3 3KO’S.

New Haven Light Heavyweight Charles Foster improved to 14-0 8KO’S scoring a 5th round TKO over Quentin Rankin, 12-4-2 9KO’S, in a bout scheduled for 8 rounds in the Light Heavyweight division.

In another war on the card, Dan Murray bested previously unbeaten Valerio Nocera, who was making his U.S. debut by scores of 38-37 twice for Murray while Nocera won on the other judges card by the same score of 38-37, in a 4 round Jr. Welterweight matchup. A debatable 3rd round knockdown scored by Murray was the difference in the fight. Murray improves to 3-1 while Nocera falls to 3-1-1.

Sequan Felton, 2-2, upset debuting Bridgeport fighter Carlos Marrero in a 4 round Jr. Lightweight contest by scores of 40-35 twice, and 39-35. Marrero drops to 0-1.

Promoter Joe DeGuardia had these comments on the night’s action “While the main event may not have been all fireworks and bombs, the rest of the card was. From start to finish the undercard and co-feature had everything you could ask for, knockouts, close matchups with razor thin decisions and upsets.
This show exemplifies why we have loyal fans in the New England area and at Mohegan Sun as they appreciate he unpredictability, and great matchups that has become customary with a Star Boxing card.”
MISSED LAST NIGHTS FIGHTS? DON’T WORRY…
STAR BOXING has made a deal with NESN SPORTS to have last nights “SLUGFEST at the SUN” fights aired on tape-delay next Sunday, December 3rd. More information to follow! Stay tuned…