Emmanuel Rodriguez recaptured the IBF Bantamweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Melvin Lopez at the MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland.

Rodriguez dropped Lopez in round 12, Rodriguez dropped Lopez with a left hook. Seconds later a four punch flurry put Lopez on the canvas. With just 12 seconds left, Rodriguez scored a third knockdown when he landed another hard flurry to the head.

Rodriguez landed 173 of 389 punches. Lopez 108 of 375.

Rodriguez, 118 lbs of Vaja Baja, PR won by scores of 120-105 on all cards, and is now 22-2. Lopez, 117 lbs of Miami via Nicaragua is 29-2.

Russell Stops Cruz in 1st

Gary Antuanne Russell remained perfect with a first-round stoppage over Kent Cruz in their 10-round super lightweight bout.

In round one, Russell landed a left uppercut on the inside that drove him back and down to the canvas. Russell then landed a left to the body that put Cruz down for referee Bill Clancy’s 10-count at 2:39

Russell, 138.4 lbs of Capitol Heights, Maryland id 17-0 with 17 knockouts. Cruz, 142 lbs of Saint Louis is 16-1-3.

Maestre Shocks Marshall in 2

In what should be termed as an upset, Gabriel Maestre stopped Travon Marshall in round two of their 10-round welterweight bout.

In round two, Maestre dropped Marshall with a right hand that made Marshall fall on the bottom rope. Maestra then landed a massive furry of punches that hurt Marshall again, and after some shots to the head, Marshall fell again and the fight was stopped by referee Sharon Sands at 2:06.

Maetre, 146.6 lbs of Barranquilla, COL is 6-0-1 with five knockouts. Marshall, 146.3 lbs of Capitol Heights, MD is 8-1.

Michael Angeletti won an eight-round unanimous decision over Jonathan Lopez in a bantamweight bout.

Angeletti, 117.8 lns of Spring, TX won by scores of 80-72 twice and 79-73 and is now 9-0. Lopez, 118 lbs of Humacai, PR is 8-1-2.

Former world title challenger Jose Benavidez Jr. stopped Shadan Janjanin after round five of their 10-round middleweight bout,

Benavidez dropped Janjanin in round three. He scored another knockdown in round four with a body shot. The fight was stopped after round five,

Benavidez, 158.6 lbs of Phoenix, AZ is 28-2-1 with 19 knockouts. Janjanin, 160.6 lbs of Prijidor, BIH is 36-16.

Former world title challenger Damien Vazquez stopped Jeromil Borres in round six of their eight-round bantamweight fight.

Vazquez dropped Borres three in round six with the final blow being a chopping right hand and the fight was stopped at 2:57.

Vazquez, 120 lbs of Vazquez is 17-3-1 with 10 knockouts. Borres, 121.6 lbs of Cagayan, PHL is 12-9-2.

Matchroom tonight announce four events in the USA and Mexico as part of a stacked second half of 2023 live worldwide on DAZN.

Headline amongst those is the confirmation of the date and venue for the hotly-anticipated Flyweight unification clash between Jesse Rodriguez and Sunny Edwards, which lands at the Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona on Saturday December 16.

The unbeaten pair meet in a mouth-watering battle to determine the top dog in the division, with WBO ruler Rodriguez and IBF king Edwards defending their titles for the first and fourth times respectively and both appearing in their first unification bouts. 

Rodriguez (18-0 11 KOs) will return to the state that he landed his first World title back in February 2022 when he defeated Carlos Cuadras to land the WBC Super-Flyweight strap. The San Antonio star defended that title twice with wins over Srisaket Sor Rungvisai and Israel Gonzalez before becoming a two-weight champion on hometurf in April by seeing off Christian Hernandez, and the 23 year old is excited to be meeting Edwards in the winter.

“I want to thank Matchroom, Teiken and my whole team for making this fight happen,” said Rodriguez. “This fight will allow me to showcase my skills and prove to everyone that I am not only the best Flyweight in the world but one of the best fighters in the world period. 

“I am excited to be back in Arizona where I first became a World champion, and I will be 100 per cent ready to put on a show on December 16 and become unified World champion.”

Edwards (20-0 4 KOs) finally gets the blockbuster showdown that he’s been craving after becoming the IBF champion in April 2021 with a trademark classy win over Moruti Mthalane in London. A pair of successful defenses in Dubai followed in December against Jayson Mama and in March over Muhammad Waseem before victory in defense number three followed in his adaopted Sheffield hometown over Felix Alvarado. 

The 27 year old had a successful debut under the Matchroom banner in June when he saw off spirited Chilean challenger Andres Campos in London, and Edwards is looking forward to proving he is the best in the division on his first fight in America.

“I’m looking forward to being involved in one of the biggest Flyweight World title fights in boxing history,” said Edwards. “It’s the real #1 versus the real #2. I would like to thank Eddie Hearn, Frank Smith, Matchroom Boxing and my team for getting me in this position, and I’d also like to thank Bam and his team for accepting the fight, and I am really looking forward to becoming one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world on December 16 in Arizona.”

One month before that, one of the hottest young fighters in the sport will headline at home for the first time in his blossoming career as Diego Pacheco takes on Marcelo Coceres for the WBO International and USWBC Super-Middleweight titles at the YouTube Theater in Los Angeles on November 18.

Pacheco (19-0 16 KOs) was at his scintillating best in his last outing in July where he blitzed the dangerous Manuel Gallegos inside four rounds in Monterrey, Mexico – ending matters with a vicious attack after flooring Gallegos in the fourth with a trademark bodyshot and became the first man to stop the Mexican later in the round.

That was a second headline turn for the rangy South LA man having previously pummeled Jack Cullen into submission again in four rounds in Liverpool, England in April, and now the 23 year old earns a shorter trip to top the bill, doing so in the shadow of the SoFi Stadium in Inglewood where he grew up.

“I cannot wait to be headlining at home November 18 at the YouTube Theater,” said Pacheco. “I am looking forward to making a statement and delivering another great performance for all my hometown fans.”

Standing in Pacheco’s way of another impressive showing at Super-Middleweight is former World title challenger Coceres (32-5-1 18 KOs). The Argentine returns to the city of his biggest night, where he met WBO ruler Billy Joe Saunders for the World title in November 2019, and the 32 year old is set to provide Pacheco with the biggest test of his career to date.

“November 18, in his backyard, this is what warriors do,” said Coceres. “I have a lot of respect for Pacheco, he’s a good fighter, but he’s still young and he has time. This is my time now.
I’ve been here before. I’ve been to war. Let’s see how the young boy does when his back is against the wall. 

“I’m bringing everything into this fight. I can’t afford another loss at this point in my career. This is make or break and I’m leaving everything I have in the ring come November 18.”

Back-to-back weekends in September provide plenty of excitement in Tijuana and Orlando.

Angel Fierro continues to hammer on the door for a World title shot, and he’ll look to add more weight to those claims when he defends his WBO NABO Lightweight title against Brayan Zammaripa on Friday September 15 at the Auditorio Municipal Fausto Gutierrez Moreno in Tijuana, Mexico. 

Fierro (21-1-2 17 KOs) is sitting pretty at #4 with the WBO, and the 25 year old gets a hometown outing as he looks to build on his growing reputation for exciting performances.

‘Tashiro’ was at his explosive best in his last outing with multiple knockdowns leading to a seventh round stoppage win over Eduardo Estela in Culiacan – a fifth KO in his last six fights – and a run he’ll be looking to improve upon against Zammaripa (13-1 4 KOs), the Baja California man who has recorded ten wins on the bounce since his sole defeat in 2016.

“I am very happy to return to my home Tijuana,” said Fierro. “But I am even more excited because I am very close to a World Title fight. I’m very focused on giving a great show to my people.”

“This is the opportunity I’ve been waiting for, for a long time,” said Zammaripa. “I respect Tashiro, but this is my moment. I’m coming to his neighborhood, but this is my territory. Civil War is coming September 15 and I’m leaving with Tashiro’s belt. Viva Mexico.

Erika Cruz (15-2 3 KOs) will return to action on the card following her thrilling battle with Amanda Serrano for the undisputed Featherweight crown in New York in February, and ‘Dinamita’ will look to get back on the path to regaining her World champion status over ten rounds against Melissa Oddessa Parker (6-1 2 KOs)

“I am 100 per cent prepared,” said Cruz. “That night the national guard and I will be celebrating our Independence Day with one more victory for the Dinamita!”

The following weekend, a stacked bill takes Matchroom back to Florida and sees World-rated Super-Lightweight Richardson Hitchins takes on Jose Zepeda for the WBC Silver and IBF North American Super-Lightweight titles at the Caribe Royale in Orlando on Saturday September 23.

Hitchins (16-0 7 KOs) shone in his last outing in his home city, putting New Jersey’s John Bauza on the canvas during a shut-out win at Madison Square Garden, and the Brooklyn ace now lurks with intent at #6 with the WBO and #7 with the IBF in the 140lb rankings. 

Zepeda (36-3 27 KOs) represents a significant barrier to Hitchins’ plans to move into World title contention though, and the Californian, who has challenged for World titles at both 135 and 140lbs, will be eyeing Hitchins’ lofty standings to reignite his own World championship plans.

“I’m excited to finally be back in action and prove I’m the top dog of the 140lb division,” said Hitchins. “I promise to put on a master class performance on Zepada. This was the guy they were calling one of the top guys in the division, so after this performance this will show I’m ready for anyone.

“We tried waiting for Montana Love, but he found his way out of the fight like I expected his bitch ass would, so it’s on to bigger and better!”

“This is it for me, my last opportunity and a big one,” said Zepeda. “I need to win to stay on track and soon fight for another World title, it’s now or never. I want to thank Matchroom very much for this opportunity, my brother Renee and my manager Rick Mirigian for getting this multi-fight deal worked out. I’ll be ready come fight night.”

The Welterweight division will move one step closer to crowning an undisputed champion on the night as Jessica McCaskill and Sandy Ryan meet for three of the belts. 

WBA and WBC champion McCaskill (12-3 5 KOs) is no stranger to undisputed status, having ripped all the hardware at 147 from long-reigning ruler Cecilia Braekhus in August 2020 and then holding onto the belts in a rematch the following March. The Chicagoan defended the belts twice more against Kandi Wyatt and Alma Ibarra before the lure of becoming undisputed champion at a second weight saw her drop down to 140lbs to take on Chantelle Cameron in Abu Dhabi in November, with the Briton coming out on top on that occasion.

WBO belt holder Ryan (6-1 2 KOs) will look to make it back-to-back losses to Brits for McCaskill, as the Derby talent puts the title she won in her last outing against Marie Pier Houle in Cardiff, Wales in April. Ryan, who holds wins over former World champions Anahi Sanchez and Erica Farias, steps straight into the biggest fight in the division in her first defense and can add two belts to take her collection up to three in just her eighth pro fight.

“Glad to finally get back in the ring, it’s been too long,” said McCaskill. “I’m not going to lie it’s been a bit frustrating but now we are finally here. You know what they say, be careful what you wish for. See you soon Sandy.”

“This fight is everything to me the level of it the best vs. the best in the Welterweight division,” said Ryan. “I respect Jessica massively as a fighter and what she has done in the sport but it’s definitely time for a new era and I believe I am that. 

“It’s my biggest fight and it’s going to be in America, a place I’ve wanted to fight in since I turned pro. It’s been a dream of mine so I can’t wait to make my America debut and fight Jessica. AND THE NEW!”

A third fight for the bill in Orlando sees Austin ‘Ammo’ Williams press his claims for World title action at Middleweight as he tackles Steve Rolls.

Williams (14-0 10 KOs) is back in the States having taken out River Wilson-Bent in eight rounds in London in April – his third fight in England – and the Middleweight contender is right on the cusp of landing a World title shot sitting at #2 with the WBA, #10 with the IBF and #11 with the WBC.

Rolls (22-2 12 KOs) will test those ambitions to the fullest though, having shared the ring with Gennadiy Golovkin and Edgar Berlanga in his 24-fight career, and the Canadian will look to get back into contention himself with the WBA International and IBF North American titles on the line. 

“I’ve learned the significance of rest and patience since my April victory,” said Williams. “This period of down time has allowed my mind and body the proper space to process all of the many lessons I’ve received in my previous 6 bouts. Tremendous advancement has occurred in all areas of my life. September 23 will be a display of brilliance, dedication, and laser focus. Don’t miss it!

“I’m looking forward to fighting on September 23,” said Rolls. “I know that Ammo is coming to fight, but I’m going to do whatever is necessary to get my hand raised at the end of the night. He has never fought anyone as a pro with my experience, and I think that experience will play a big role in me winning this fight.”

Information on ticket on-sale dates and further undercard news for these events will be released soon.

These events are added to a stacked offering from Matchroom on DAZN, with more to come including:

Leigh Wood vs. Josh Warrington, Saturday October 7, Sheffield

Jack Catterall vs. Jorge Linares, Saturday October 21, Manchester

Chantelle Cameron vs. Katie Taylor II, Saturday November 25, Dublin

QUINCY, Mass. (August 12, 2023) – Last night’s main event was truly the Fight of the Night on the entertaining “Veterans Stadium Showcase” Pro-Am card as Holbrook (MA) junior welterweight Mike “Bad Man” Ohan, Jr. (19-2, 9 KOs) had his best performance ever against Harry “The Hit Man” Gigliotti (9-5, 3 KOs), fighting out of Haverhill (MA), in an old-fashioned throw-down.

“Veterans Stadium Showcase,” presented by Granite Chin Promotions (GCP), was streamed live from Veterans Memorial Stadium in Quincy, Massachusetts. Part of the proceeds went to Operation Homefront.

“As special as this night was for me, it meant even more to the fighters,” GCP President Chris Traietti commented. “I couldn’t be prouder of all the fighters or more appreciative of the fans for their enthusiasm all night. I want to give my sincere thanks to all the city leaders and local businesses that supported this event for allowing a Quincy business to do something special in the greatest city on earth.”

Ohan, Jr., the former New England Welterweight Champion, showed poise and patience as he adjusted and eventually broke-down the always tough Gigliotti on his way to a convincing eight-round unanimous decision.

Gigliotti came out firing clean, explosive shots in the first round, taking the fight right to Ohan, Jr., the former New England Welterweight Champion. Ohan. Jr. started beating Gigliotti to the punch in the second. The third was even and Ohan, Jr. established control in the second half of the fourth round, putting together his punches, which slowed down Gigliotti. As both fighters landed punch after punch in the fifth, Ohan, Jr. suddenly floored Gigliotti with a left to the body at the end of the round. Ohan, Jr. patiently and methodically took total control as Gigliotti rode his bike in the sixth, moving much more away rather than to Ohan, Jr,, who hurt Gigliotti with more body punches as the bell rang.

With Ohan, Jr. now controlling the action and pace, he owned the seventh and it appeared Gigliotti knew he needed a knockout to win. He didn’t at the KO but never stopped trying and Ohan, Jr. finished in style, landing a series of shots right to the end.

“Everything leading up to this fight made me better for this fight and my future,” Ohan, Jr. said after the fight. “I hit him with a picture-perfect body shot, but he’s a really tough kid. The first two rounds were for adjustments. He felt my power punches and that body shot was the beginning of the end for him. I had to adjust to beat him on the inside and that’s how I broke him down. I wish I got the stoppage, but I had a great performance. There’s always work to do, though, to get to the top.”

The co-featured event was a middleweight unification bout between USBF champion Julien “Black Dragon” Baptiste, of Woburn (MA), and Massachusetts titlist Jamer Jones, of Pittsfield (MA), in a great fight, one that would have been the Fight of the Night on most shows.

Julien Baptiste took care of business

Jones sent Baptiste to the mat with a big right at the end of the opening round. Baptiste let his hands go in the second round, however, and he buzzed the 6’ 3” Jones right before the bell signaling the end of the round. In a back-and-forth fight, Jones counter-punched well in the third, while Baptiste managed to get inside of Jones’ long reach. The two fighters exchanged solid punches in the fourth, popping each other with great regularity, but the torrid pace slowed slightly in the fifth, only to pick back up in round six. Suddenly, Baptiste connected with an overhand right, practically knocking out Jones on his feet. Jones somehow got to his feet, but the referee wisely stopped the fight.

Frank Hogan registered his 14th KO

It was Tank Time once again. Undefeated middleweight Francis “Frank The Tank” Hogan (15-0, 14 KOs), the gifted southpaw from nearby Weymouth (MA), bullied his Argentinian opponent, Miguel “El Pirado” Angel Suarez (15-13, 9 KOs) in an impressive display. Hogan, a 2020 USA Boxing Olympic Team Alternate, floored Suarez in the opening round with a left hook to the body, right to the head. In the second round, he dropped Suarez twice, after which the referee waved off the fight. Hogan has now stopped 14 of his 15 opponents without suffering a loss.

Thomas O’Toole (R) improves each fight

Thomas “The Kid” O’Toole (8-0, 6 KOs), fighting out of Galway, Ireland, didn’t need more than a single round to capture the vacant USBF Cruiserweight title, The Irish lefty started the fight with a blistering attack of Scott “Bombs” Lampert (5-9, 4 KOs), who was unable to answer the bell after one round, in which, Lampert was decked twice. O’Toole, a 2019 Irish National Champion, used crisp combinations to overpower the gutsy Lampert.

Tommy Hyde (R) passed test

Irish super middleweight prospect Tommy “The Governor” Hyde (6-0, 4 KOs) passed the toughest test of his young pro career, effectively using his amateur pedigree against Polish veteran Robert Talerek (27-21-3, 18 KOs) en route to a dominant six-round unanimous decision victory. A three- time Irish National Champion from Cork, Hyde looked sharp, consistently blasting away Talerek’s body up and down, dropping the Pole with a perfectly placed hook in the fifth round. Talarek is a former IBF European and IBO Inter-Continental Middleweight Champion.

Lowell (MA) lightweight Gabriel “The Menace” Morales (8-0, 4 KOs) remained undefeated, taking a four-round majority decision from Nathan Benichou (2-17-1, 2 KOs).

Rhode Island journeyman Alfred Raymond (1-6-1) nearly upset unbeaten Salem (MA) junior middleweight Kenny “Lionheart” Lawson (7-0-1, 5 KOs), which ended in a hard-fought six-round majority draw.

Scituate (MA) heavyweight Kevin “Big Gulp” Nagle (3-0, 3 KOs) used his nearly 100-pound advantage, pounding his pro-debuting opponent, Bruno Saravia (0-1), closing the show in round two with a lethal right hook to the body that sent Saravia to the canvas for a TKO win.

Methuen (MA) middleweight Luke “The Quiet Storm” Iannuccilli (7-0, 3 KOs) kept his undefeated record intact, pitching a six-round shutout against always tough Ryan Thomas Clark (2-5, 1 KO) in the evening’s opening bout.

Three USA Boxing-sanctioned amateur matches preceded the pro card.

Complete results below:

PRO RESULTS

MAIN EVENT — JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS

Mike Ohan, Jr. (19-2, 9 KOs), Holbrook, MA

WDEC8 (79-72, 78-73, 76-75)

Harry Gigliotti (9-5, 3 KOs), Haverhill, MA

CO-FEATURE – USBF & MASSACHUSETTS MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIPS

Julien Baptiste (6-3, 3 KOs), Woburn, MA

.WTKO6 (2 :55)e

Jamer Jones (3-2, 3 KOs), Pittsfield, MA

(Baptiste won the Mass. middleweight title and retained the USBF title)

HEAVYWEIGHTS (4)

Kevin Nagle (3-0, 3 KOs), Scituate, MA

WTKO2 (2:10)

Bruno Saravia (0-1), Boston, MA

VACANT USBF CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Thomas O’Toole (8-0, 6 KOs), Galway, Ireland

WTKO1 (3:00)

Scott Lampert (5-9, 4 KOs), Dover, NY

(O’Toole won USBF cruiserweight title)

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Tommy Hyde (6-0, 4 KOs), Cork, Ireland

WDEC6 (60-53, 60-53, 59-54)

Robert Talarek (27-21-3, 18 KOs), Ruda Slaska, Poland

MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Francis Hogan (15-0, 15 KOs), Weymouth, MA

WTKO2 (2:08)

Miguel Angel Suarez (15-13, 9 KOs), Beccar, Buenos Aires, Argentina

Luke Iannuccilli (7-0, 3 KOs), Methuen, MA

WDEC6

Ryan Thomas Clark (2-5, 1 KO), Berwick, NH

JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Kenny Larson (7-0-1, 5 KOs), Salem, MA

WD6 (57-57, 57-57, 56-58)

Alfred Raymond (1-6-2, 0 KOs), Warwick, RI

LIGHTWEIGHTS

Gabriel Morales (8-0, 4 KOs), Lowell, MA

WDEC4 (40-36, 39-37, 38-38)

Nathan Benichou (2-17-1, 2 KOs), Puebla, Puebla, México.

AMATEUR RESULTS

147 lbs. – Shaquille Mair (Everybody Fights)

WMDEC3

Desmond Le (Dialed In Method)

119 lbs.-– Jennifer Perella (unattached)

WUDEC3

Danielle Millian (STC Boxing)

156 lbs. — Dylan Connors (Quincy BoxFit)

WRSC2 (0:44)

Ronilson De Castro (unattached)

Former unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua took out Robert Helenius in round seven of their 12 round heavyweight bout at The O2 Arena in London.

The fight lacked action for the most most part. Joshua slowly turned up his punch rate in round’s five and six. In round seven, Joshua uncorked a right hand that landed on the jaw that plummeted Helenius on his back and the fight was over at 1:27.

Joshua, 250 lbs of Watford, ENG is now 26-3 with 23 knockouts. Helenius, 249.4 lbs of Mariehamm, FIN is 32-5.

Helenius took the fight on about four-days notice after original opponent Dillian Whyte was taken out of the fight due to a failed test for a banned substance,

Chisora Decisions Washington

In a battle of former world title challenger, Derek Chisora grinded out a 10-round unanimous decision over Gerald Washington in a heavyweight bout.

Chisora, 251.1 lbs of Finchley, ENG won by scores of 98-93, 97-94 and 96-94 and is now 34-13. Washington, 237.9 lbs of Vallejo, CA is 20-6-1.

Hrgovic Stops McKean in 12th

IBF number-one ranked Filip Hrgovic stopped previously undefeated Demsey McKean in the 12th and final round of their heavyweight fight.

The fight mostly lacked action. In round 12, Hrgovic landed an overhand right that hurt McKean, who staggered into the ropes. The referee started a count and then the fight was stopped at 1:01.

Hrgovic, 243.1 lbs of Zagreb, CRO is 16-0 with 13 knockouts. McKean, 245.5 lbs of Queensland, AUS is 22-1.

Fisher Stops Armstrong in 7

Johnny Fisher remained undefeated with a seventh round stoppage of Harry Armstrong in a 10-round heavyweight bout,

Fisher went to work right away as he dropped Armstrong 10 seconds into the fight when he came out swinging from his heels and landed a big right hand.

In round seven, Fisher dropped Armstrong with a massive overhand Fisher followed that up with a big flurry that was highlighted by a crushing right on the ropes that forced a referee stoppage at 1:19.

Fisher, 242.8 lbs of Romford, ENG is 10-0 with nine knockouts. Armstrong, 250,8 lbs of Torquay, ENG is 5-2-1.

Hatton Decisions Ansell

Campbell Hatton remained undefeated with a eight-round decision over Tom Ansell in a super lightweight contest.

Hatton, 141.8 lbs of Hyde, ENG won by a 78-74 score and is now 13-0. Ansell, 141.9 lbs of Hitchin, ENG is 10-5.

George Liddard stayed undefeated with a six-round decision over Bas Ootwerweghel in a middleweight bout.

Liddell, 162.3 lbs of Billericay, ENG won by a 59-55 tally and is 4-0. Ooterweghel, 164.7 lbs of Tilburg, NET is 5-2.

Brandon Scott remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Louis Norman in a featherweight fight.

Scott, 131.9 lbs of Swansea, WAL won by a 60-54 score and is now 6-0. Norman, 133.9 lbs of Shepshed, ENG is 14-14-1.

Maiseyrose Courtney remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Gemma Ruegg in a super flyweight contest.

Courtney, 114.4 lbs of Eltham, ENG won by a 60-54 score and is now 4-0. Ruegg, 113.8 lbs of Bournemouth, ENG is 7-8.

UNCASVILLE, CT – Summer Heat 2023 nearly boiled over today after all of the fighters successfully made weight at Mohegan Sun Arena.  

Only a handful of tickets are left for a massive August 12th double header featuring Chordale “The Gift” Booker’s first defense of his WBC US Super Welterweight title against Nicolas Hernandez as well as the return of 4 time, 2 division champion Jaime “The Hurricane” Clampitt at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut.  

Tickets can be purchased online at CESfights.com, Ticketmaster or at the Mohegan Sun box office.  The event will be streamed live at SpectationSports.com beginning at 7pm EST for those watching at home.  In addition to 8 professional bouts, fans will be treated to the “Jimmy Burchfield Classic Invitational,” a USA sanctioned amateur showcase beginning at 4:30pm EST.

Weights from Uncasville, Connecticut:

• Chordale Booker 153 vs. Nicolas Hernandez 154; Super Welterweights

Chordale Booker: “I’m defending my belt.  I’m going to do the same thing I did in my last fight: I’m going to finish him.  Tomorrow when I defend my belt, it’s going to be worse than what I did when I won it. He’s going to pay for every mistake. I’m ready to beat his ass right now!”      

Nicolas Hernandez: “I’m here for one job – to fight and to win.  It’s not about what I do better than him or what he does better.  We’re going to trade punches and either he’s going to finish me or I’m going to finish him.”

• Jaime Clampitt 131 vs. Josefina Vega 132.5; Lightweights

Jaime Clampitt: “I trained extremely hard for this.  I think this has been my hardest training camp yet and I’m here to win.  This means the world to me.  I’ve been doing this for a long time, and I finally feel like I’m getting the fights I need and the recognition.”    

Josefina Vega: “I’m going to show that us women can fight.  I’m well prepared and ready for this bout and I’m here to put on a great show.  I’m going to leave my heart and soul in the ring – that’s what I prepared for.”  

• Alejandro Paulino 131.5 vs. Julian Aristule 135; Lightweights

Alejandro Paulino: “Camp is always great.  We train hard for everyone, so I’m more than ready for tomorrow night.  We’re going to put on a great show.  I have power in both hands, so he better watch out!”

Julian Aristule: “I’m going to box to victory tomorrow.  We can box or we can brawl, but I came all the way from Argentina for this, and my punch variety will be the difference.”

Other weights:

• Wilson Mascarenhas 142 vs. Anthony Mora 138; Super Lightweights

• Anthony Velasquez 162 vs. Mario Bustos 172; Middleweights
• Mike Kimbel 141.5 vs. Stephen Davis 140.5; Super Lightweights
• Jeffrey Gonzalez 147.5 vs. Joe Wilson Jr. 140.2; Welterweights
• Slawomir Bohdziewicz 201 vs. Gabriel Costa 201; Cruiserweights

For more information, follow CES Boxing on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @CESBOXING.

INFORMATION

CES Boxing is one of the top promotions on the east coast.  Founded by Jimmy Burchfield Sr. in 1992, CES has promoted several world class fighters, including Jamaine Ortiz, Juiseppe Cusumano, Hank Lundy, Vinny Paz, Peter Manfredo, Mariusz Wach, Jason Estrada, Matt Godfrey, and Ray Oliveira.  CES Boxing has promoted such superfights as “The Thriller on Triller: Tyson v Jones” and “The Contender: Manfredo v Pemberton”.

NEW YORK (August 11, 2023) – Split-T Management fighters will be front and center in action over the coming weekend.

Friday night in Atlanta. three Split-T fighters will be in action on the second installment of the OTX Boxing series on DAZN at 8:30 PM ET.

Tyler Howard will be back in action after a 21-month layoff when he takes on Raul Solomon in an eight-round middleweight bout.

Howard of Crossville, Tennessee has a record of 19-1 with 11 knockouts. The 29 year-old Howard has quality wins over Isiah Seldon (12-1-1 & Cristian Olivas (16-3). Howard is coming off his first blemish when he lost to Ian Green on November 5, 2021 in Las Vegas,

Solomon of Long Beach, California is 12-1 with 10 knockouts. The 24 year-old is coming off a second round stoppage of Angel Hernandez on April 15th of Pomona, California.

In a six-round featherweight bout, David Navarro takes on D’Angelo Fuentes. Navarro of Hemet, California is 5-1 with three knockouts. The 23 year-old Navarro has won three straight, and is coming off a second round stoppage over Luis Cambero on October 21, 2022 in Atlantic City.

Fuentes of Coconut Creek, Florida is 8-1 with five knockouts. The 24 year old has already defeated Justice Bland (5-1) and his last fight, which was a second round stoppage over previously undefeated Kevin Ford (4-0) on October 7, 2022 in Bensalem, PA.

Also seeing action in Atlanta will be former National Golden Gloves champion Giovanni Marquez. Marquez will take on Nicky Vittone in a six-round junior welterweight bout.

Marquez, 22 of Houston, Texas is 5-0 with three knockouts. Marquez began his pro career with a win over undefeated Nelson Morales. In his last bout, Marquez won a six-round unanimous decision over Bryan Springs on April 1st in Houston.

Vittone of Pine Brook, New Jersey is 9-2-1 with seven knockouts. The 27 year-old is looking to get back in the win column after being stopped by Jordan Rosario on April 1st in Paramus, New Jersey.

Saturday in Glendale, Arizona, undefeated heavyweight Antonio Mireles takes on Dajuan Calloway in a six-round bout.

The 6’9″ Mireles is 7-0 with six knockouts. Mireles has already defeated undefeated fighters Brandon Hughes (2-0) and Eric Perry (5-0-1). In his last outing, The native of Des Moines, Iowa went the distance for the first time and took home a decision win over Patrick Mailta (6-1) on March 25th in Fresno, California.

Calloway of Warrensville Heights, Ohio is 7-2 with seven knockouts. The capable 31 year-old has a first round stoppage over Kahlil Smoot (8-1) on his ledger. Calloway is coming off two consecutive stoppage wins, with the latest being a first-round win over Alex Davis on June 24th in Cleveland.

Mireles is promoted by Top Rank.

Mireles vs. Calloway will be streamed live on ESPN+ at 8 PM ET,

LAS VEGAS – August 11, 2023 – Public on-sale begins today at 10 a.m. PT for the highly-anticipated event that will see Mexican superstar and pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez defend his undisputed super middleweight world titles against hard-hitting undisputed junior middleweight world champion Jermell Charlo headlining a SHOWTIME PPV (8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT) Saturday, September 30 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Tickets will be available through AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions.

#         #         #

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

IBF Bantamweight World Championship – 12 Rounds

Emmanuel Rodriguez – 118 lbs.

Melvin Lopez – 117 lbs.

Referee: David Braslow; Judges: Walessa Roldán (N.Y.), Robin Taylor (N.Y.), Paul Wallace (Md.)

Super Lightweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Gary Antuanne Russell – 138.4 lbs.

Kent Cruz – 142 lbs.*

Note: Cruz was two pounds over the contracted weight of 140 pounds. The fight will proceed as scheduled. 

Referee: Bill Clancy; Judges: Brent Bowell (Md.), Eric Irizarry (Md.), Sharon Sands (Calif.)

Welterweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Travon Marshall – 146.8 lbs.

Gabriel Maestre – 146.6 lbs.

Referee: Sharon Sands; Judges: David Braslow (Md.), Bill Clancy (N.C.), Paul Wallace (Md.)

SHOWTIME BOXING COUNTDOWN

Stream Live at 6:30 PM ET/3:30 PM PT

on the SHOWTIME Sports^® YouTube Channel and SHOWTIME Boxing^® Facebook Page

Bantamweight Bout – Eight Rounds

Michael Angeletti – 117.8 lbs.

Jonathan Lopez – 118 lbs.

Referee: Eric Irizarry; Judges: Sharon Sands (Calif.), Robin Taylor (N.Y.), Paul Wallace (Md.)

Middleweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Jose Benavidez Jr. – 158.6 lbs.

Sladan Janjanin – 160.6 lbs.

Referee: Brent Bowell; Judges: David Braslow (Md.), Bill Clancy (N.C.), Waleska Roldán (N.Y.)

Bantamweight Bout – Eight Rounds

Damien Vázquez – 120 lbs.

Jeronil Borres – 121.6 lbs.*

Note: Borres was 0.6 pounds over the contracted weight of 121 pounds. The fight will proceed as scheduled. 

Referee: Sharon Sands; Judges:  David Braslow (Md.), Eric Irizarry (Md.), Walaska Roldán (N.Y.)

Veteran sportscaster Brian Custer will host the telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo will handle the blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion Abner Mares. Three Hall of Famers round out the telecast team – Emmy^®-winning reporter Jim Gray, world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon, Jr., and boxing historian Steve Farhood, who will serve as unofficial scorer. The executive producer is four-time Emmy Award winner David Dinkins, Jr., with Ray Smaltz III producing and Chuck McKean directing. Sportscaster Alejandro Luna will call the action in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP) with former world champion and SHOBOX: The New Generation^® commentator Raúl “El Diamante” Marquez serving alongside him as the expert analyst. 

The SHOWTIME BOXING COUNTDOWN show is hosted by award-winning MORNING KOMBAT live digital talk show co-host Luke Thomas and one of the sport’s most highly regarded trainers, Stephen “Breadman” Edwards.

#          #          #

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #RodriguezLopez, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.

   •  Emanuel Navarrete 130 lbs. vs. Oscar Valdez 129.8 lbs
(Navarrete’s WBO Junior Lightweight World Title — 12 Rounds)
Referee: Wes Melton
Judges: Lisa Giampa, Chris Wilson and Zach Young

   •   Lindolfo Delgado 140.7 lbs vs. Jair Valtierra 139.4 lbs
(Junior Welterweight — 10 Rounds)
Referee: Chris Flores
Judges: Dennis O’Connell, Craig Harmon and Esther Lopez

•  Richard Torrez Jr. 235.4 lbs  vs. Willie Jake Jr. 249.6. lbs 
 (Heavyweight — 6 Rounds)
Referee: Robert Hoyle
Judges: Dennis O’Connell, Lisa Giampa and Esther Lopez

(ESPN+, 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT)

•    Emiliano Fernando Vargas134.8 lbs  vs. Jorge Luis Marquez Alvarado  133.7 lbs 
 (Lightweight — 4 Rounds)

•  Antonio Mireles 270.7 lbs  vs. Dajuan Calloway 391.7 lbs 
 (Heavyweight — 6 Rounds)

•  Eduardo Ayala 160 lbs vs. Sergio Rodriguez 161 lbs
 (Middleweight — 6 Rounds)

•   Ricardo Ruvalcaba 141.6 lbs vs. Adrian Orban 141.5 lbs
 (Junior Welterweight— 6 Rounds)

World rated contender Elijah Pierce (18-2, 15 KOs) needed just three rounds to knock out Mike Plania (28-3, 15 KOs) on Friday night. The event was promoted by Overtime Boxing and streamed on DAZN. 

Pierce is currently world rated by the WBC, IBF and WBO. 

The 26 year old southpaw connected with a short and succinct shotgun left hand that dropped Plania, and the Florida-based Filipino fighter failed to pick himself back up from the canvas. This marks the first time Plania has been stopped in 31 fights. 

“I’ve been telling everybody, the power is real. I know I’m the hardest punching super bantamweight in the world. I feel like I’m the only one who can beat Inoue, as once he feels my shots he’ll respect me.”- said Pierce. 

Elijah’s manager Trifon Petrov has been pushing for a big fight for his fighter.

“This was an extremely impressive win for Pierce. He did the unthinkable and stopped Plania. Pierce is on a tear since we started working together, he won 9 in a row, 7 by knockout. He paid his dues, he is ready for the biggest names in the weight class.”- said Trifon Petrov. 

After last week’s win, Pierce proved once again he is a top 5 fighter in the world. He is a high risk fight for all those rated above him, so whenever Elijah Pierce’s name comes up most fighters don’t even want to entertain a conversion about possibly fighting him. 

“I know my manager has been working on trying to make the Ra’esee Aleem fight. I will take this fight in a heart beat. Him and I are the best USA based fighters in the weight class. Let’s run it.” said Pierce. 

When asked about Stephen Fulton, here is what Pierce had to say. 

“Although I think Fulton is a great fighter and I respect him, I have seen a lot of flaws I could exploit and he also showed how he does with big punchers. If he and I ever fight, it would be another one-sided beating just like what Inoue did to him… would he fight me though is the question?”

Pierce wouldn’t mind going overseas and fighting some of the big names there either.

“I’ve gone to people’s hometowns and embarrassed them in front of their families and friends. I wouldn’t mind going to Australia and doing the same to Sam Goodman.”- said Elijah Pierce. 

GLENDALE, Arizona (Aug. 10, 2023) — Emanuel Navarrete (37-1, 31 KOs) and Oscar Valdez (31-1, 23 KOs) are ready for an all-Mexican duel.

Navarrete will put his WBO junior lightweight world title on the line against former two-division world champion Valdez this Saturday, August 12, at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona.

In the 10-round junior welterweight co-feature, rising contender Lindolfo Delgado (17-0, 13 KOs) will square off against Jair Valtierra (16-2, 8 KOs). U.S. Olympic Silver Medalist Richard Torrez Jr. (5-0, 5 KOs) will open the televised tripleheader in a six-round heavyweight tilt against Willie Jake Jr. (11-3-2, 3 KOs).

Navarrete-Valdez, Delgado-Valtierra, and Torrez-Jake will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

The ESPN+-streamed undercard (8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT) will feature the returns of unbeaten lightweight phenom Emiliano Fernando Vargas and heavyweight southpaw Antonio “El Gigante” Mireles.

Vargas (5-0, 6 KOs) will fight Mexico’s Jorge Luis Marquez Alvarado (3-5-1 2 KOs) in a four-rounder. Mireles will take on hard-hitting Ohio native Dajuan Calloway (7-2, 7 KOs) in a six-rounder.

In a six-round middleweight battle between two of Phoenix’s crowd favorites, Sergio Rodriguez (7-0-1, 6 KOs) and Eduardo Ayala (9-3-1, 3 KOs) will clash for intra-city bragging rights. Rising junior welterweight prospect Ricardo Ruvalcaba (9-0-1, 8 KOs) will make his fourth appearance of 2023 in a six-rounder against Adrian Orban (6-3, 4 KOs).

At Thursday’s press conference, Navarrete and Valdez were joined by Marco Antonio Barrera and Erik Morales. The Mexican legends will present the winner of Navarrete-Valdez with a commemorative jacket designed by Tijuana-born fashion designer Kiko Baez.

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

Below is what the fighters had to say:

Emanuel Navarrete 

“We all know that this fight is raising a lot of expectations. It would be totally fraudulent if Valdez and I didn’t give 100 percent in this fight. We all know that everyone expects a war in the ring. We have all that it takes to make for a great fight.”

“I have said that the fight with Valdez was necessary for my career because of everything it represents. The rivalry between Mexicans is something essential. It’s a good thing for the fight. But boxing fans have also put a lot of pressure on me, saying that my career was missing that cherry on top. They said that I needed an impressive and iconic fight where I exert much more of myself. The fight with Valdez is that kind of fight.”

“Obviously, the fact that Barrera and Morales are here indicates that our promoter wants to tell us something. We have to do something at least similar to what they did. That is the goal. Everything is set so that we can deliver a great fight. I see Valdez, and I see that he’s ready. We’re two days away from getting into the ring, and it’s going to be a great night on Saturday.”

Oscar Valdez
 
“This fight means the world to me. The loss to Shakur Stevenson sparked something different in me. It woke something up. It made me realize how much I missed boxing and how much I love the sport. The year away from boxing made me miss it so much. I also miss being a world champion. So, it also means the world to me to have another opportunity to become a world champion again.”
 
“Camp was great. It can be in Lake Tahoe, San Diego, Guadalajara or even China. camps are always the same for me. We train hard for each fight, but for this fight we trained even harder. We trained not only harder, but smarter. We have to be smart in this fight. We had a perfect camp. Eddy Reynoso and my team have done a great job, and we’re ready for this fight.”
 
“It’s an honor for Barrera and Morales to be here. It means the world to be because I grew up in the era of Barrera and Morales. These two don’t know how much they inspired me. That was the era that I grew up watching. They are warriors.”
 
“I want to win. I want to be a world champion again. I want to show the fans a good fight. So, I am ready.”

Marco Antonio Barrera

“I’m happy to have been invited for this tremendous fight. Every time there is a Mexican boxer in the ring, you will see a war. And on this occasion, Valdez and Navarrete know what’s going to happen in the ring. I think it will be the type of fight that all Mexicans know how to deliver.” 
 
“Fights between Mexicans will always be exciting. Here we have two Mexicans in the ring who want to be in one of the most historic fights between Mexican boxers. That’s what they are looking to do.”
 
Erik Morales
 
“This is a great opportunity for these two Mexican boxers to demonstrate that Mexican boxing is always very exciting. I’ve had the opportunity to speak with both separately. Both have said that there will be a great war. So, I’ve some to see this great war.”
 
“Mexicans fight because they have a big heart and for pride. The belts don’t matter. Nothing matters. The only thing that matters is determining who is the best fighter from Mexico.”

Lindolfo Delgado 
 
“I would like to have some belts soon. I’d like to fight for a world title soon. I want to do what I have always dreamed of doing, which is to be a champion. But first thing’s first. I have to work hard and concentrate on this next fight.” 
 
“I’ve come with a strong desire to do something impressive in this fight. I know that I have a strong opponent in front of me who has come to win. But I want to deliver a great show so that the people can enjoy it. That way, I can continue being on great cards like this one.”
 
Jair Valtierra 
 
“I’m very excited to be part of such a big card. I know that is an opportunity for people to get to know me, and I will take advantage of it.”
 
“A victory this Saturday would elevate my career to an elite level. It will be the start of my story in professional boxing as a big name. I feel more than ready for this fight.”
 
Richard Torrez Jr.
 
“I’m feeling great. Camp was a long camp. But I’m excited that it’s fight week because we get to really focus on the fight now. We hit the gym last night when we got here. It’s a must for us now. We usually go out and run and then afterward we’ll shadowbox. It’s a way to acclimate and get used to the area. No matter where you are, it’s good get acclimated, and that first workout right after the flight is the right way to do it.”
 
Emiliano Fernando Vargas
 
“This has become a lifestyle. I’ve been in camp pretty much this whole year. I love what I do. And I wouldn’t trade it for the world. I love going to the gym. I love feeling tired. I love pushing that extra mile. At the end of the day, to be able fight in front of thousands of fans on ESPN is a blessing.”
 
Sergio Rodriguez 
 
“I feel great. I feel honored to get another opportunity here with Top Rank. It’s a highly anticipated fight between two of Phoenix’s best middleweights. So, it’s a good way to start the Navarrete vs. Valdez card.”
 
Eduardo Ayala 
 
“It’s a great feeling and a great opportunity to be fighting at home. A victory would mean a lot to me. Sergio and I have a lot of friends in common. They’ve been hyping it up for a while, so it would mean a lot.”
 
“Well, firstly, it gives me happiness to know that they want to emulate what I did in boxing. They want expand the list of great Mexican boxers. And that’s what these kinds of fights do. It expands the list of Mexican boxers.”

Saturday, August 12

ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT)
 

Emanuel Navarrete vs. Oscar Valdez, 12 rounds, Navarrete’s WBO Junior Lightweight World Title 

Lindolfo Delgado vs. Jair Valtierra, 10 rounds, Junior Welterweights

Richard Torrez Jr. vs. Willie Jake Jr., 6 rounds, Heavyweights

 
ESPN+ (8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT)

Emiliano Fernando Vargas vs. Jorge Luis Marquez Alvarado, 4 rounds, Lightweights

Sergio Rodriguez vs. Eduardo Ayala, 6 rounds, Middleweights
 
Ricardo Ruvalcaba vs. Adrian Orban, 6 rounds, Junior Welterweight   

QUINCY, Mass. (August 10, 2023) – The “Veterans Stadium Showcase,” presented by Granite Chin Promotions (GCP), was held today at Malachy’s Saloon for tomorrow evening’s Pro-Am card at Veterans Memorial Stadium in Quincy, Massachusetts.

“Veterans Stadium Showcase” will be streamed live on www.bxngtv.com

Tickets for “Veterans Stadium Showcase” are on sale and available for purchase online at www.EventBrite.com.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. ET with the amateur matches starting at 6:30 p.m. ET, pro card commences at 8 pm. ET.

Fighters’ official weights below:

OFFICIAL WEIGHTS

MAIN EVENT – JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS (8)

(R) Harry Gigliotti (9-4, 3 KOs), Haverhill, MA 139.6 lbs.

(L) Mike Ohan, Jr. (18-2, 9 KOs), Holbrook, MA 139.4 lbs.

CO-FEATURE – USBF & MASSACHUSETTS MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIPS (8)

(L) Julien Baptiste (5-3, 2 KOs), USBF Champion, Woburn, MA 158.6 lbs.

(R) Jamer Jones (3-1, 3 KOs), Mass. Champion, Pittsfield, MA 160.8 lbs.

MIDDLEWEIGHTS (8)

Francis Hogan (14-0, 13 KOs), Weymouth, MA 159.2 lbs.

Miguel Angel Suarez (15-12, 9 KOs), Beccar, Buenos Aires, Argentina 155.8 lbs.

VACANT USBF CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP (6)

Scott Lampert (5-8, 4 KOs), Dover, NY 193.6 lbs.

Thomas O’Toole (7-0, 5 KOs), Galway, Ireland 186 lbs.

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS (6)

Robert Talarek (27-20-3, 18 KOs), Ruda Slaska, Poland 168 lbs.

Tommy Hyde (5-0, 4 KOs), Cork, Ireland 168.2 lbs.

LIGHTWEIGHTS (6)

Nathan Benichou (2-16-1, 2 KOs), Puebla, Puebla, México 133.8 lbs.

Gabriel Morales (7-0, 4 KOs), Lowell, MA 134.8 lbs.

JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS (6)

Kenny Larson (7-0, 5 KOs), Salem, MA 153.6 lbs.

Alfred Raymond (1-6-1, 0 KOs), Warwick, RI 155 lbs.

HEAVYWEIGHTS (4)

Bruno Saravia (pro debut), Boston, MA 197.6 lbs.

Kevin Nagle (2-0, 2 KOs), Scituate, MA 294.4 lbs.

MIDDLEWEIGHTS (6)

Luke Iannuccilli (6-0, 3 KOs), Methuen, MA 156.6 lbs.

Ryan Thomas Clark (2-4, 1 KO), Berwick, NH 158.6 lbs.

(card subject to change)

INFORMATION:

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

Twitter: @Granite_Chin

NEW YORK, NY – August 10, 2023 – Today, Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) announced the full fight card lineup for its second installment of its Most Valuable Prospects series. Taking place on Friday, August 18 in Orlando, Florida, the main event between Nestor “El Mas Bravo” Bravo and Will “III Will” Madera will be preceded by a co-main 10-round bout between welterweights Damian Lescaille (4-0, 3 KOs) and Hugo Noriega (8-0, 5 KOs). Both fights will be Continental Americas Title bouts. Additional matchups include welterweights Elijah Fores (5-0, 2 KOs) and Elijah Williams (6-0, 2KOs) who will be competing for six rounds, Lorenzo Medina (7-0, 6 KOs) vs Antonio Torres (4-0, 4 KOs), and Antraveous Ingram (5-0, 2 KOs) vs Orlenis Licea (0-0-1), who made his debut on Most Valuable Prospects I. 

The Most Valuable Prospects series is produced and promoted by MVP, with Boxlab Promotions serving as the official licensed promoter and is distributed by DAZN. The second event in the series continues the commitment from MVP co-founders Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian to highlight the world’s best up-and-coming boxing talent. All events within Most Valuable Prospects will take place on Friday nights in 2023 and will be hosted by the series’ official title sponsor, Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, FL. DAZN will air the series across its platforms as a part of its subscription package which will include the entire main card lineup and prelims. Tickets are now on sale at https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/22005EEADB50BF76

24-year-old Damian Lescaille is a Houston, TX resident that hails from Camaguey, Cuba. Trained by the legendary Ronnie Shields, the southpaw holds a record of four wins with three KOs and will be returning to the Caribe Orlando Resort for his fifth career fight. 

Lescaille will be facing Hugo Noriega, a 33-year-old Miami, Florida native who stands at a staggering 6’2 and holds a record of eight wins with five KOs. Promoted by M&R Promotions, this welterweight rocket proved his prowess after earning an amateur win over Olympic Gold Medalist Roniel Iglesias and will be entering the ring on August 18 with a KO in mind. 

“Most Valuable Prospects II is stacked with talent and the potential to find boxing’s next big thing. MVP is thankful to all of our partners and athletes for participating in the second of many events in our new series that highlights up and coming fighters ,” said Nakisa Bidarian and Jake Paul, co-founders of Most Valuable Promotions. “Make sure to tune in on DAZN or purchase your tickets at ticketmaster.com because this event promises to be an action packed night filled with some of the most promising fighters in the sport.” 

“Caribe Royale is once again pleased to serve as the title sponsor for the Most Valuable Prospect Series. This is an exciting night of Boxing Action with two title belts on the line. This event is great for local fans and also fans watching on DAZN,” said Amaury Piedra, Managing Director of Caribe Royale Resort and President of Boxlab Promotions. “This prospect series is one of a kind as we have the top young fighters in the game going head to head. We’re happy to be working with Jake, Nakisa, and the entire team at MVP on our second installment of the series.” 

August 18th’s card will also welcome Elijah Flores and Elijah WIlliams, who will go head-to-head in a 6-round welterweight bout. Flores is a 19-year old fighter out of Redlands, California who’s putting his undefeated record on the line.  

His opponent, Elijah Williams a Newburgh, New York native who holds a record of 6 wins with four KOs and no losses. The 20-year-old fighter stands at 5’9 and is ready to take a big step up in professional competition after a stellar amateur career. 

Most Valuable Prospects II will also host four preliminary bouts on Friday, August 18th including returning to the series is Florida’s very own Lorenzo Medina (7-0, 6 KOs) who will be taking on Jamestown, NY native Antonio Torres (4-0, 4 KOs) in a 6-round heavyweight battle. 24-year-old Antraveous Ingram (5-0, 2 KOs) will be facing Orlenis Licea (0-0-1), who is returning to MVP’s series after making his debut in May at Most Valuable Prospects I. The two middleweight fighters will face off in a 4-round bout. 

For more information, follow on Twitter via @JakePaul, @MostVPromotions, @DAZNBoxing, @Boxlab_AP, and @cariberoyale or on Instagram via @JakePaul, @MostValuablePromotions, @DAZNBoxing, and @cariberoyaleorlando.

About Most Valuable Promotions (MVP)

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

About DAZN

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

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

? 

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

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

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

About Caribe Royale Orlando Resort

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

NATIONAL HARBOR, MD. – August 10, 2023 – Former world champion Emmanuel Rodriguez and streaking contender Melvin Lopez went face to face at Thursday’s final press conference before they meet for the vacant IBF Bantamweight World Championship this Saturday, August 12 headlining live on SHOWTIME from The Theater at MGM National Harbor in Maryland in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The press conference also featured fighters competing on the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast that will see undefeated rising star and Capitol Heights, Maryland-native Gary Antuanne Russell taking on fellow unbeaten Kent Cruz in the 10-round super lightweight co-main event, plus sensational top prospect and Landover, Maryland-native Travon Marshall dueling unbeaten two-time Olympian Gabriel Maestre in the 10-round welterweight telecast opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through www.mgmnationalharbor.com/.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from MGM National Harbor:

EMMANUEL RODRIGUEZ

“I’m more mature and experienced now than I was when I first won the title. I will be the fifth world champion from Puerto Rico right now and that would be a privilege. That’s the goal in this fight.

“I guarantee you I’m gonna come out with the win on Saturday, because I’m the toughest opponent he’s ever faced.

“I’m gonna prove I’m the best fighter in the division. This is gonna send a message to all the other champions that I’m here to stay.

“I’ve had so much love and support from Puerto Rico already. The island is eager to see me fight and I want to give back all that love with a win on Saturday night.

“Starting in the fourth round, I should be able to figure out what he’s got in store for me. Then I feel like I can stop him between the fourth and seventh rounds.

“I’ve trained in Mexico and it’s been like a second home. They’ve really supported me. I owe it to all of them to give it my all.

“The fans are gonna see an amazing show and the best version of Emmanuel Rodriguez. I guarantee that.”

MELVIN LOPEZ

“Winning would bring me happiness and pride for my country, and it would prove to me that all my hard work ever since I was little, paid off.

“He can say whatever he wants, talk is cheap. Saturday night is where it’s all shown. He’s gonna have to back it up.

“I’m not gonna guarantee a knockout. I’m an animal that hunts for his prey. I’m gonna try to get him where I want and whatever happens, happens.

“He says he’s the best in the division, and he’s gonna try to show it. But I’m gonna do the same thing. I’m gonna try to show that I’m the best on Saturday night.

“I’m gonna give it my all for the world title. We both want it badly. For everyone watching on Saturday night, I’m gonna do everything I can to bring the title home.”

GARY ANTUANNE RUSSELL

“People are gonna see a Grade-A performance from me on Saturday. It feels really good to be back. Cruz is gonna bring his physical best and I’m gonna bring everything I need to put the fire out.

“My knockout streak is a good thing, but the object of this sport is to continue to win. A knockout would be a notch on my belt and I plan to get it, but it’s not a weight on my shoulders.

“It’s up to me to just perform at my highest peak. We have to execute everything at the highest level. That’s what will leave me victorious.

“He can expect pain. It’s the hurt business. Someone’s ‘0’ has got to go. At the end of the day, I’m gonna take my hat off to him and be respectful, but I’m gonna show everyone that I do it for the art. I love this sport.

“I’m back in my hometown and representing my area. If I get good grades, I make the family look good right? That’s the objective. People are gonna be saying that I’m a beast.

“Pressure busts pipes and makes diamonds. If anything, I’m at ease fighting at home.”

KENT CRUZ

“Beating Russell will mean everything for my career. This is the fight that we’ve been waiting on. This is gonna bring the best out of me and it’s gonna make me up my level and up my ability.

“People are gonna be surprised. We had a terrific camp and brought out the old Kent Cruz. I’m gonna shock the world come Saturday night. For sure.

“This is my third southpaw in a row, so we’ve been training for southpaws for a long time. It’s been easier for me because we just maintained what we were doing. I love fighting southpaws because it makes it easier for me to set up what I want to do.

“I feel like he has more pressure on him than me, because he’s fighting in his hometown. I just have to do my part and come out victorious Saturday night. We’re gonna do whatever it takes.

“I’m gonna shock the world. People are looking past me, but I’m gonna wake them up for sure.”

TRAVON MARSHALL

“The 147-pound division is about to be wide open and there are a lot of good prospects coming up. It’s time to get a gauge on who’s gonna be next to take over.

“A victory over Maestre will give me standing in the division. With me being this young and going up against a two-time Olympian, that’s an amazing thing.

“Me and my team are prepared for anything. Make sure you tune in on time Saturday night, because I’m gonna snipe him out of there.

“He’s never faced anyone like me as a pro. It’s a whole different caliber over here. People are gonna say that this young guy is the one after this fight.

“You’re gonna see a dominant performance by a young up-and-coming prospect that came out of nowhere. They’re gonna know my name after Saturday night.”

GABRIEL MAESTRE

“He’s gonna have to be ready each and every round, because I’m coming to win. I know that he’s young and hungry and that he’s fighting at home, but I’ve prepared myself for all of that.

“The fans are going to be the true winners, because this is gonna be a true spectacle and a memorable fight for everyone watching.

“I’m beyond motivated for this fight. The American fans like to see a brawl and I’m gonna go punch for punch with Travon. It’s gonna be fun.

“I respect what Marshall says, but the real talking is done inside of the ring. He hasn’t fought anyone like me and he has no idea what he’s in store for.”

#         #         #

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #RodriguezLopez, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.

Sheffield, England – 9 August 2023 – All-action Doncaster star Reece Mould will make the first defence of his WBA Continental Lightweight Championship against Kent rival Martin McDonagh on Friday 6th October in Sheffield.

Mould versus McDonagh headlines a double-title GBM Sports show that also features the fiery Commonwealth Super-Flyweight Championship showdown between Emma Dolan and Nicola Hopewell.

The venue for the GBM Sports show will be officially announced on Monday.

It’s set to be real 50-50 clash between Mould and McDonagh as the pair are expected to trade some serious leather with the winner going on to pursue bigger honours.

Mould (18-1-0, 6 KO’s) won the title in style against the previously unbeaten Hamed Ghaz in February on a unanimous decision and then defeated the hard Mexican Christian Lopez Flores in June, but now arguably faces the toughest test of his 19-fight career.

World rated Mould is out to prove that he’s the real deal and is on a mission to become World Champion.   A victory against McDonagh is crucial to remain on course towards challenging for a World title.

Mould said, “I can’t wait for this one! McDonagh is the type of test I want and need at this stage of my career.  When it’s an all British clash with a title on the line it makes it that bit more special and adds an extra edge to it.  I believe he’ll be coming to win and take the title and I know that I’ll have to be at my very best and I’ll be more hungrier and determined to keep hold of the belt and everything it means for my future.”

Hard-as-nails McDonagh (12-2-0, 1 KO) from Sheerness is the reining Southern Area Lightweight Champion and will provide a stern test for the ambitious Mould.

The 28-year-old southpaw defeated Connor Marsden by tenth round stoppage in September last year to claim the title and then made first defence in a hard fought, tense, battle against Ben Smith in April this year to retain the title on a points victory.

McDonagh said, “I’m really looking forward to the fight with Reece it’s a very tough fight but one I’m confident in winning.   A win gets my his world ranking and puts me in the place I feel like I deserve. Thank you to Izzy of GBM Sports and my manager Lee Eaton for getting me the opportunity and I look forward to putting on a career best performance.”

The remaining boxers to feature on the undercard have also been confirmed.

It was announced on Monday that rising prospects Naphtali Nembhard, Adam Mohammed, Will Cawley and Nohmaan Hussain will all feature in the line up.

GBM Sports have now announced that up-and-coming prospects Bree Wright, Faraqat Ali, Joe Hayden, Sheldon McDonald, Red Johnson and Declan Cairns have all been added to the show to complete an action-packed 12-fight card.

Sheffield’s only female professional boxer, welterweight Wright (3-0-0, 1 KO) has built an unbeaten record as she looks towards challenging for her first title shortly.  Burbeary has battled through mental health and weight issues to start her pro boxing career and counts her friend and World Champion Terri Harper as her inspiration.

Sheffield Super-Featherweight ‘El Frako’ Ali (7-0-0) will have domestic titles in his sights with a victory on the night.  The rising talent is unbeaten in seven and has featured on all GBM Sports’ card to date.

Dave Allen protege Hayden (10-0-0) from Coinsborough has been billed as ‘Doncaster’s busiest and brightest boxing prospect’.  The 23-year-old southpaw has amassed a ten-fight unbeaten record in just over a year of turning pro and his quality has been recognised by World Title contender Jack Catterall who insists on using Hayden for sparring.  Hayden was also a former semi-professional player with Maltby Main and Frickley Athletic.

Sheffield Cruiserweight McDonald (6-1-0, 2 KO’s) is another former semi-professional footballer having played for Sheffield FC, Handsworth and Clipstone.  He was studying Accountancy at Sheffield’s Hallam University and boxing in the amateur code when his friend and mentor former World Cruiserweight Champion Johnny Nelson noticed his boxing talent and advised him to drop football.  McDonald followed his advice and turned professional and has also completed his successfully completed his Accountancy degree.

Completing the card will be unbeaten Sheffield Super-Middleweight prospect Johnson (3-0-0) and Worksop Welterweight Cairns (6-1-0, 1 KO).

Promoter Izzy Asif, CEO of GBM Sports, commented, “What a fight it’s going to be between Mould and McDonagh.  This has the makings of a great fight between these two proud warriors.  Full credit to McDonagh for challenging Mould in his Yorkshire strong hold and I know he’ll give it everything he’s got.  Reece is really riled up for this fight and knows that everything he has worked for is on the line so he knows that there are no two ways about it – he must win.  I’m delighted to add the remaining names to the show and it will be GBM Sports’ biggest and best fight night to date.  I’m really looking forward to seeing all these boxers’ in action on the night and it’s quality from the top to the bottom on the card.  With Reece headlining and Dolan versus Hopewell in the chief support, all the way through to Nembhard, Mohammed, Cawley, Hussain, plus our announcement today of Wright, Ali, Hayden McDonald, Johnson and Cairns.  It’s going to be an amazing night to show the depth and talent in GBM Sports and how far we’ve come in a short space of time.

LAS VEGAS – August 9, 2023 – Mexican superstar and pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez will defend his undisputed super middleweight world titles in a blockbuster showdown against hard-hitting undisputed junior middleweight world champion Jermell Charlo headlining a SHOWTIME PPV (8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT) Saturday, September 30 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Canelo, who’s amassed one of the best resumes of his generation at only 33-years-old, will make the third consecutive defense of his WBC, WBA, IBF and WBO super middleweight world titles against the junior middleweight king Charlo in the first matchup of the four-belt era pitting two reigning undisputed champions against each other. With a win, Charlo would add his name alongside legendary champions such as Sugar Ray Leonard, Thomas Hearns and Roy Jones Jr. by successfully jumping two weight classes to win a world title.     

Pre-sale tickets are available tomorrow, Thursday, August 10 from 10 a.m. PT until 10 p.m. PT through AXS.com by using the code: PBC

Public on-sale begins Friday, August 11 at 10 a.m. PT with tickets available through AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions.

“Canelo Álvarez and Jermell Charlo are fighters who dare to be great every time they enter the ring and have shown that once again by going headfirst into this dream matchup between the two best fighters in their divisions,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Canelo is already a surefire Hall of Famer but continues to seek the biggest and best fights for his devoted fans. Charlo has also established himself as one of the sport’s top pound-for-pound fighters and would leave no doubt about his place in boxing’s hierarchy with a win on September 30. This is a night you won’t want to miss on SHOWTIME PPV and at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.”

“We are very excited about this historic matchup under the PBC banner,” said Eddy Reynoso, Canelo’s Manager and Trainer. “Our team is very focused on this fight and we have decided to hold a high-altitude training camp to prepare. We have a great champion in Charlo in front of us and this will be an exciting fight because of the styles both fighters bring to the ring.”

“Canelo vs. Charlo is a legitimate mega-fight and yet another testament that SHOWTIME® continues to deliver the biggest and best matchups in the sport.” said Stephen Espinoza, President, SHOWTIME SPORTS®. “In a banner year that has already featured some of the most anticipated fights in recent memory, Canelo vs. Charlo stands out as a historically unique showdown between two undisputed champions. September 30 will be another can’t-miss event for boxing fans around the world.”

Having captured world titles at 154, 160, 168 and 175-pounds, Canelo (59-2-2, 39 KOs) will enter the ring for yet another super fight as he looks to become the first man during the four-belt era to defend all four titles successfully three consecutive times. The fighting pride of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, Canelo became undisputed at super middleweight in November 2021 by taking the IBF belt from then unbeaten Caleb Plant via an 11^th-round TKO headlining a SHOWTIME PPV. After dropping a light heavyweight title fight against Dmitriy Bivol in May 2022, Canelo rebounded to defeat Gennadiy Golovkin in their September 2022 trilogy fight before most recently defeating John Ryder in May.

Under the guidance of his renowned coach Reynoso, Canelo has triumphed over a long list of elite fighters since turning pro at just 15-years-old in 2005, including Golovkin twice, plus Shane Mosley, Erislandy Lara, Miguel Cotto and Sergey Kovalev to name a few. Outside of the Bivol fight, Canelo’s only other defeat came against undefeated legend Floyd Mayweather in September 2013.

“I’m very happy that we got to make a fight of this magnitude between two undisputed champions,” said Canelo. “Jermell Charlo has also faced the best in his division, and I’m glad that the fans are going to enjoy a world class fight between us on September 30.”

Houston’s Charlo (35-1-1, 19 KOs) unified the junior middleweight titles in emphatic fashion his last time out, knocking out Brian Castaño in round 10 of their May 2022 rematch, after they fought to a draw in a July 2021 slugfest. The 33-year-old became a unified champion in September 2020, dropping Jeison Rosario three times on his way to an eighth-round knockout that earned him the WBA and IBF titles. Before that fight, Charlo had avenged the only loss of his career as he reclaimed his WBC belt via an 11^th-round knockout of Tony Harrison in one of 2019’s best fights.

Charlo is trained by 2022 BWAA “Trainer of the Year” Derrick James in Dallas and won his first world title in his debut fight with James by scoring an eighth-round knockout of John Jackson in 2016. He followed up that victory with three successful defenses, knocking out Erickson Lubin and Charles Hatley, and winning a decision over former world champion Austin Trout. Charlo and his twin brother and two-division champion Jermall, who fight under their Lions Only banner, made history in 2016, becoming the first twins in boxing history to simultaneously hold world championships in the same weight class.

“I’m really excited to make history once again on September 30,” said Charlo. “This is the biggest fight in boxing and I’m coming to leave it all in the ring like I do every time. I manifested this fight into existence and earned it with everything I’ve done in this sport so far. Canelo is a great fighter, but he’s gonna see what Lions Only is all about. When the fight’s over, people are gonna have to recognize that I’m the best fighter in the sport.” 

#         #         #

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

GLENDALE, Ariz. (Aug. 9, 2023) — Lightweight contender Raymond Muratalla suffered a training injury and has been forced to withdraw from his ESPN-televised co-feature this Saturday, Aug. 12, against fellow unbeaten Diego Torres at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona.

The 10-round junior welterweight tilt between rising contender Lindolfo Delgado and Jair Valtierra is the new co-feature and will be televised directly before the WBO junior lightweight world title showdown between reigning champion Emanuel Navarrete and former two-weight world champion Oscar Valdez.

Navarrete-Valdez, Delgado-Valtierra, and the heavyweight showdown between Richard Torrez Jr. and Willie Jake Jr. will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

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

Delgado (17-0, 13, KOs) represented Mexico at the 2016 Rio Olympics and won his first 11 bouts by stoppage. He made his Top Rank debut in June 2021 and outlasted then-unbeaten puncher Omar Aguilar by decision last August in a 2022 Fight of the Year contender. Delgado fought at Desert Diamond Arena in February, knocking down veteran Clarence Booth en route to a one-sided decision victory. Valtierra (16-2, 8 KOs), from Leon, Mexico, lost an eight-round decision to Muratalla last July. He returned in February against the unbeaten Nestor Bravo, and the bout was ruled a no contest in the fourth round after a head clash opened a cut near Bravo’s right eye.

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman:

“It’s a night of Heavy Duty action at The O2 in London, with Anthony Joshua now facing ‘The Nordic Nightmare’, 6ft 9in Robert Helenius as ‘AJ’ looks to move on to some of the biggest fights in the division, and the undercard is stacked with some of the biggest, baddest and best Heavyweights in the world, along with some of our youngest talent.

“We know the issues of the last few days and it’s never easy to think on your feet and adapt, but the instruction from Anthony Joshua was clear, ‘I’m ready to fight and I want to fight on Saturday.’ 

“We have to thank our broadcast partner DAZN. The great news for subscribers that this is no longer Pay-Per-View – unbelievable value for fight fans to be able to watch ‘AJ’ in a big fight with a great undercard, so thank you to them for their support as we have not only ‘AJ’ that wanted to fight on Saturday, but all these undercard fighters that have had long training camps too, and as we all know, you only get paid when you fight.  

“It’s been a challenging few days and I want to thank ‘AJ’, who stayed focused after putting 12 weeks of hard work into his camp and was desperate to fight on Saturday night and showcase the hardwork that took place, and Robert Helenius, who accepted the challenge and has a good team of people around him we knew wouldn’t mess around, and we knew he was fit and had just boxed. This is an important fight at The O2.”

Anthony Joshua (25-3, 22 KOs faces Robert Helenius over 12 rounds at Heavyweight):

“I looked at the undercard and I know how important it is for them to compete. I know how hard you (Eddie Hearn) worked, and all the Matchroom staff, my coach, DAZN, so it’s a responsibility I have. Late replacements aren’t ideal but it’s the third time it’s happened. A long career will present these types of obstacles and I’ve just got to get used to them, it’s just another rock in my shoe to the top of the mountain. 

“The principles remain the same, worry about myself. Robert and I sparred years ago, we shared the ring, but I’ve sparred with so may styles, competed with som many styles, the objective remains the same – victory, and victory by any means. There’s no overtime in boxing so I have to be on my A-game and inflict pain to get the victory.

“Coming off the back of Covid, everyone suffered during that period. The sport industry slowed down and now we just want to get some momentum going again. As Derrick said, I came out to camp early this year, I took a couple of weeks, maybe a month back in the UK then went to Dallas, to try to progress on. So, my goal was to fight as many times as possible, like Robert, he fought on Saturday, you have to stay active, keep expressing your skill as that’s the only way to improve. I fought in April, but I’ve spent a lot of time in the ring in the gym as we do a lot of ring work in Dallas, and that’s the closest thing to a fight. It’s not just hitting the bags and mitts, there’s a lot of combat training so I am physically ready. 

“It would be silly to underestimate him, or anyone. I have to take him deadly serious and credit to him, he’s coming to roll the dice, he wants to win. Other Heavyweights that were mentioned, finance is an issue – risk versus reward, but in reality, that’s not all there is for him, so good luck to him, and shout out to everyone in Finland, I’ve been there before, and we’re looking to provide some good entertainment from top to bottom as the card is unbelievable. 

“The card is phenomenal, it’s the old days at The O2 and this is what we want to bring, it’s entertainment. It’s not ‘I’m coming out to watch Anthony Joshua’, no, it’s ‘I’m coming out to watch a Matchroom show, a great night of boxing’, so credit to everyone involved in this.”
 
Derrick James, trainer of Anthony Joshua:

“You have to move forward. Now it is all about Robert who is a pretty good fighter, you will see everything ‘AJ’ has been able to work on throughout camp and implement it into his game.

“We have had a little more time this time. It’s all about the process, he’s brought into that process and he’s getting better and better. 

“The only difference from Dillian to Robert is you have to change the trajectory of the punches, one shorter and lower, now higher because he’s 6ft 9in. But it’s good, he’ll be able to show his transition from fighting one guy to a week later another guy, so we will see.”

Robert Helenius (32-4, 21 KOs fights Anthony Joshua over 12 rounds at Heavyweight): 

“Thank you for giving me this opportunity. This fight offer came to me after my fight at the weekend. I was going on vacation with my family but not anymore, here we are. We had a good camp behind us, and we feel ready. I am ready to fight, otherwise I wouldn’t be here. I respect him, he’s a good fighter. It’s going to be glorious. I’ve been chasing the World Title for 15 years and when you get this big of an opportunity you can’t let it slip and I will give everything to win this fight.”

Markus Sundman, manager of Robert Helenius: 

“Massive opportunity, when do you get a call this close to a fight night and you come off a camp and you are in shape, everything has fallen into place. Victory would mean everything.”

Alfie Sharman, VP DAZN:

“We were obviously disappointed with the news but we move, and here we are in London with an AJ fight week, and everybody knows with an ‘AJ’ fight week it’s a huge event. 

“We want to thank our great partners ‘AJ’, Freddie Cunningham and everyone at 258, Eddie, Frank and Matchroom and the teams at DAZN working tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure the event goes ahead. Robert is a tough opponent; he’s been in with the best and he’s here to spoil the party.

“The O2 will be full on Saturday, the undercard is incredibly strong, and this night is part of the DAZN subscription and there’s much more to come, make sure you tune in on Saturday live on DAZN.”

WHAT:          “Veterans Stadium Showcase” Pro-Am Boxing Event

WHO:            The Lineup

MAIN EVENT – JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS (8)

Harry “The Hat” Gigliotti (9-4, 3 KOs), Haverhill, MA

Mike “Bad Man” Ohan, Jr. (18-2, 9 KOs), Holbrook, MA

CO-FEATURE – USBF & MASSACHUSETTS MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIPS (8)

Julien “Black Dragon” Baptiste (5-3, 2 KOs), USBF Champion, Woburn, MA

Jamer Jones (3-1, 3 KOs), Mass. Champion, Pittsfield, MA

MIDDLEWEIGHTS (8)

Francis “Frank The Tank” Hogan (14-0, 13 KOs), Weymouth, MA

Miguel “El Pirado” Angel Suarez (15-12, 9 KOs), Beccar, Buenos Aires, Argentina

VACANT USBF CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP (6)

Scott “Bombz” Lampert (5-8, 4 KOs), Dover, NY

Thomas “The Kid” O’Toole (7-0, 5 KOs), Galway, Ireland

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS (6)

Robert Talarek (27-20-3, 18 KOs), Ruda Slaska, Poland

Tommy “The Governor” Hyde (5-0, 4 KOs), Cork, Ireland

LIGHTWEIGHTS (6)

Nathan Benichou (2-16-1, 2 KOs), Puebla, Puebla, México

Gabriel “The Menace” Morales (7-0, 4 KOs), Lowell, MA

SUPER WELTERWEIGHTS (6)

Kenny “The Lionheart” Larson (7-0, 5 KOs), Salem, MA

Alfred Raymond (1-6-1, 0 KOs), Warwick, RI

HEAVYWEIGHTS (4)

Bruno Saravia (pro debut), Boston, MA

Kevin Nagle (2-0, 2 KOs), Scituate, MA

MIDDLEWEIGHTS (6)

Luke “The Quiet Storm” Iannuccilli (6-0, 3 KOs), Methuen, MA

Ryan Thomas Clark (2-4, 1 KO), Berwick, NH

(card subject to change)

_____________________________________________________________________ 

WHEN:           Friday, August 11, 2023 (Aug. 12 rain date)

WHERE:        Veterans Memorial Stadium, Quincy, MA

TICKETS:  Tickets for “Veterans Stadium Showcase,” are on sale and available for purchase online at www.EventBrite.com.

LIVE STREAM: www.bxngtv.com

WEIGH IN: Malachy’s Saloon, 51 Granite Street in Quincy, MA

OTHER:     Doors open at 5:30 p.m. ET with the amateur matches starting at 6:30 p.m. ET, pro card commences at 8 pm. ET.

INFORMATION:  

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

Twitter: @Granite_Chin

NASHVILLE, TN. – August 9, 2023 – Exciting undefeated prospect Da’Velle Smith picked up his third victory of the year on Tuesday night, as the Saiita Promotions’ prospect delivered a third-round TKO of veteran Dedrick Bell in their middleweight clash that took place in Nashville, Tennessee. The stoppage came 2:59 into the round and improved Smith’s record to 6-0 with 5 KOs.

“It felt good to be back in the ring,” said Smith. “I knew I was in with a veteran and I was prepared to get some rounds in. I was patient and did what I had to do to get the victory. I want to keep the momentum going and hopefully get right back into the ring to fight again in September.”

Bell presented the most experienced challenge of Smith’s young career, as the 69-fight veteran has faced the likes of Yordenis Ugas, DeMarcus Corley and Jose Benavidez Jr. to name a few, throughout his career. The 22-year-old Smith first burst onto the scene in September 2021 by winning the WBC’s inaugural Big Belt Championship by knocking out Ricky Evans in the first round.

His 2023 campaign had already seen him stop Gyorgy Mizsei in February before blasting out the previously unbeaten Kahydlian Woods in the first round on the Claressa Shields-Maricela Cornejo undercard in June. Training in the renowned Kronk Gym, Smith has begun to catch the eye of luminaries in the boxing world as he works his way up in the sport.

“Da’Velle is progressing at a fast past and is going to be a force to be reckoned with in the middleweight division,” said Dmitriy Salita, President of Salita Promotions. “He’s tall, strong, skills and a big puncher coming out of the Kronk Gym in Detroit.”

“It was good to have Da’Velle on the show in the Kronk colors,” said Christy Martin, boxing legend and the promoter of last night’s show. “You could tell from his performance that he is a special fighter.”

#         #         #

ABOUT SALITA PROMOTIONS

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

Check the Salita Promotions YOUTUBE CHANNEL for regular updates of the modern world’s greatest fighters, contenders and prospects in action. 

LOS ANGELES (August 9, 2023) – An exciting regional battle pitting undefeated super featherweight prospect Austin Brooks (10-0, 3 KOs) versus Anthony Chavez (11-3-1, 3 KOs), in the 10-round main event on a solid top-to-bottom card, presented by Toro Promotions, Inc. and Whitfield Haydon Boxing, on Saturday night, August 26, at the famed Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington.

Austin Brooks

The 27-year-old Brooks, fighting out of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, is a rising star in the 130-pound weight class, who has fought a few times on the ESPN platform. He has yet to fight more than six rounds in any of his pro fights to date.

“I feel blessed for the opportunity to be fighting in the main event,” Brooks remarked. “To get my first 10-round fight against a quality opponent and in the main event is something I’ve been working towards. I will capitalize on this moment.”

The more experienced Chavez, representing Redlands, California, was a bronze medalist at the 2015 USA National Championships. He is a throwback fighter who is trained by the highly respected Henry Ramirez.

A rare match-up featuring two undefeated prospects, Jon Bryant (8-0, 2 KOs) and Axl Melendez Salgado (6-0, 4 KOs), will square off in the six-round, co-featured event. Fighting out of Bremerton (WA), Bryant is coming off an impressive six-round decision win over veteran DeMarcus “Chop Chop” Corley (52-35-1, 28 KOs), the former World Boxing Organization (WBO) Light Welterweight World Champion.

“We are very excited to be back at the Emerald Queen Casino,” promoter Azat Torosyan (Toro Promotions) said. “Tacoma, we are crafting another unforgettable show filled with intense action.”

On the undercard in six-round matches, Seattle featherweight Gregory Cruz (5-2, 3 KOs) faces Roberto Negrete (4-1-1, 2 KOs), undefeated Portland super lightweight will take on Filipino Jake “D’ Twins” Bornea (14-5-1, 7 KOs), the former WBO Asia Pacific Youth Flyweight titleholder, and Fife (WA) super middleweight Cameron “The Puerto Rican Bakugo” Seville Rivera meets tough, upset-minded Antonio “Ton The Beast” Hernandez (7-16-2, 4 KOs). The opening bout of the evening will showcase lightweight hopeful Josue Cadena in a good test against California club fighter Dan Hernandez (2-2, 1 KO).

Card subject to change.

Tickets for the event are priced at $100.00, $60.00, and $40.00, and may be purchased by calling (253) 594-7777 or at www.Emeraldqueen.com.