LOS ANGELES – July 12, 2023 – Boxing superstar Claressa “G.W.O.A.T.” Shields continued to make history this week, as the world’s top pound-for-pound women’s boxer was awarded the 2023 ESPY Award for “Best Boxer” prior to Wednesday’s award ceremony. Shields became the first ever female boxer to win the award that has been given out since 1993.

“First I want to thank God. I am truly humbled to become the first woman ever to win the ‘Best Boxer’ of the year award for the ESPYS,” said Shields. “This award may have my name on it but it is for every female boxer who has stepped into the ring and hopefully will inspire generations of young women in the future to pursue their dreams with no boundaries. I want to thank ESPN and all my fans who voted for me all over the world! To win this award against the likes of Shakur Stevenson, Gervonta Davis and Devin Haney is an incredible honor. What a feeling to be the GWOAT amongst men!”

Shields beat out men’s boxing stars Davis, Haney and Stevenson to win the fan voting for the award. The Flint, Michigan-native was already one of just three women since 2008 to be recognized in the category, having earned a nomination for the 2021 ESPYS, and is the only woman to receive multiple nominations in that time span.

Shields’ recent run has included her two victories in 2022, capped by an action-packed victory last October over Savannah Marshall that saw Shields become the undisputed middleweight world champion for the second time. Already boxing’s only champion to become undisputed in two divisions, Shields defended her four belts successfully this June in front of a huge crowd at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit as she shut out Maricela Cornejo on her way to a unanimous decision.

“This is an incredible honor for a generational great, the ‘G.W.O.A.T.’ Claressa Shields,” said Dmitriy Salita, Shields’ promoter and President of Salita Promotions. “It is yet another first for women’s boxing and most importantly more fuel for women’s empowerment all over the world. Claressa Shields is building the bridge to equality with the bricks of her unmatched, unparalleled accomplishments inside and outside of the ring.”

Mark Taffet, Shields’s manager and President of Mark Taffet Media, added: “Claressa continues to shatter every glass ceiling and accomplish what, prior to her, was considered unachievable. The only two-time US Olympic boxing gold medal winner, fastest man or woman to win world championships in three weight divisions, only man or woman to hold undisputed world titles in two weight divisions simultaneously, and only woman in the past twenty five years to win Sportswoman Of The Year twice is now the first woman to win the Best Boxer ESPY award!”

# # #

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. 

Galal Yafai will headline Matchroom Boxing’s latest NXTGEN card at the Utilita Arena Birmingham on Saturday August 19 when he puts his WBC International Flyweight Title on the line against Tommy Frank, shown live worldwide on DAZN. 

Tokyo 2020 Olympic Champion Yafai (4-0, 3 KOs) fights in his home city for the first time as a professional after racking up four wins from four fights since joining the paid code with a long-term promotional deal back in January 2022. 

Amateur sensation Yafai picked up the WBC International crown on his professional debut at The O2 in London before making defences at the world-famous Madison Square Garden In New York, the stunning Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi and The O2 once more last time out in April.

Sheffield’s Frank (15-3-1, 3 KOs) conceded his British Flyweight Title to Wales’ World Title contender Jay Harris last time out in Rotherham, succumbing to a tenth-round stoppage after an entertaining back and forth barnstormer.

The former Central Area, Commonwealth, WBC International Silver and IBO Intercontinental Flyweight Champion is out to cause a big upset and claim the biggest scalp of his career, a win that would propel himself to the front of the queue for massive fights in the Flyweight division. 

Alnwick’s rising Welterweight star Cyrus Pattinson (6-0, 4 KOs) broke down and stopped former British Champion Chris Jenkins last time out in March in his first headline fight at the Utilita Arena Newcastle to pick up the WBA International Title.

The 29-year-old former Team GB standout puts his Title on the line against Wolverhampton’s former Midlands Area Welterweight Champion Conah Walker (11-2-1, 3 KOs) as he continues to climb the 147lbs ladder towards further title shots later this year.

Warley Heavyweight hope Solomon Dacres (6-0, 2 KOs) looks to build on his two-round demolition of Robert Ismay earlier this year while Oxford’s Jordan Flynn (9-0, 1 KOs) and Birmingham’s Kane Baker (19-10-1, 3 KOs) rematch in an eliminator for the English Super-Featherweight Title following their April clash.

There’s also action on the card for Bolton Super-Lightweight Khaleel Majid (10-0, 3 KOs), Coventry Middleweight Aaron Bowen (2-0, 1 KO) and Leicester Bantamweight prospect Muhammad Ali (2-0), plus professional debuts for Birmingham duo Sahil Khan and Ibraheem Sulaimaan. 

“I’m excited to be fighting in my home city for the first time as a professional and to be headlining the show makes it even sweeter,” said Yafai. “I haven’t fought in Birmingham in around ten years so it’s going to be special fighting in front of my friends and family for the first time since capturing Olympic Gold and starting my pro career with Matchroom. 

“Tommy Frank is in the opposite corner and he’ll be fully motivated to get the upset but this is my city and I’ll be getting the win with a big performance on home soil. My career is progressing nicely and this is another step on my journey towards fighting for and winning World Titles. See you on August 19 Birmingham.”

“Although my last fight against Jay Harris was a defeat I learnt a lot from it and I have more belief in myself than ever before,” said Frank. “I wasn’t expecting this opportunity but I believe that things happen for a reason and I’ll be ready to make my mark on the big stage on August 19.

“Yafai is a quality fighter with a great pedigree and I’ve got a lot of respect for him. I’m grateful for the opportunity and to be showcased on such a big platform. I will no doubt be underestimated but that’s fine with me, I believe I have a lot more to achieve in boxing and with a rejuvenated confidence in myself I believe this opportunity has come at the perfect time.”

“I’m excited to be returning to Birmingham for our first show in the city for almost five years,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “Olympic gold hero Galal Yafai gets the opportunity to headline his first show and it’s a WBC International Title defence against Sheffield’s former British Champion Tommy Frank. Galal has looked sensational so far on his professional journey and he’ll be determined to impress on home soil as he continues to work towards World Titles in the Flyweight division and beyond.

“There’s plenty of emerging Midlands talent on display with Solomon Dacres taking his next step in the Heavyweight division and destructive Coventry Middleweight Aaron Bowen returning for his third fight in the pros. North East Welterweight star Cyrus Pattinson looks to build on his sensational scrap with Chris Jenkins and there’s plenty more on offer for our second NXTGEN helping of the year. Catch it all live around the world on DAZN.”

Tickets for Yafai vs. Frank are priced £40, £60, £120 and £200 (VIP).

General Sale tickets can be purchased via Stage Front and The Ticket Factory from midday on Thursday July 13.

Tasman Fighters and Jai Opetaia have agreed to work with Matchroom as part of a global promotional partnership.
 
Opetaia (22-0 17 KOs) wrestled the IBF and Ring Magazine World Cruiserweight titles away from Mairis Briedis on home turf with an outstanding display in Queensland, Australia in July 2022, outboxing the Latvian with a show of skill mixed with guts after breaking his jaw in both the second and final rounds.
 
The 28 year old extended his unbeaten slate to 22 fights in the paid ranks on that famous night, landing World title honors at the first attempt in a professional career that began in August 2015 after the imposing southpaw said goodbye to a glittering amateur stint that yielded gold in the World Junior Championships in 2011 and saw him become the youngest ever Australian Olympian fighter when he represented his country in at the 2012 Games in London.
 
Opetaia is determined to make more history with the goal of unifying the Cruiserweight division, and the IBF and Ring king is itching to get back into the ring and turn those dreams into reality with Matchroom.
 
“This is something that Tasman Fighters and myself have always worked towards and now I just want to start taking these big fights and unify all the titles,” said Opetaia.
 
Penning a deal with Opetaia sees another Australian star added to Hearn’s blossoming stable Down Under, with the world’s leading Cruiserweight joining the likes of Liam Paro, Stevie Spark, Ebanie Bridges and Skye Nicolson, and Hearn is excited to be able to plot big events in Australia following a successful first outing in Queensland in October – and with Matchroom joining forces with Tasman Fighters on Opetaia, fighters and fight fans alike in Australia are the big winners in the deal, with huge nights on the horizon.
 
“I am thrilled to welcome Jai to the Matchroom Boxing Team and delighted to be working closely once again with Tasman Fighters,” said Hearn. “Jai’s win over Briedis was an historic moment for Australian boxing and solidified him as the number one in the Cruiserweight division. There is no doubt that he can collect all the belts to become undisputed ruler and not just become a superstar at home, but all over the world.
 
“Australian boxing continues to rise and Matchroom want to be a major part of that growth, and with Jai joining our other Aussie stars, we look to returning there soon.”
 
“The deal Tasman Fighters has struck with Matchroom is a massive opportunity for Jai Opetaia to move forward in his career on a global scale, it also opens the door for all of our contracted fighters and Australian boxing in general,” said Mick Francis, Company Director of Tasman Fighters. “Pathways for our athletes is something we consider is the key to developing boxing in this part of the world and with Matchroom it is finally a reality. We are looking forward to the future.”
 

QUINCY, Mass. (July 12, 2023) – Undefeated super middleweight prospect Steve “The Savage” Sumpter (8-0, 7 KOs) has never turned down a fight. Neither has his next opponent, James “Pitbull” Perkins (12-0-1, 9 KOs), and that’s why the two undefeated fighters will throw-down August 19^th.

Sumpter vs. Perkins headlines “Pandemonium at The Palladium”, presented by Granite Chin Promotions (GCP), in an eight-round showdown for the vacant International Boxing Association IBA) Americas Super Middleweight Championship.

“Pandemonium at The Palladium” will be streamed live on www.bxngtv.com from the famed Palladium in Worcester, Massachusetts.

“This fight is one of the best main events Massachusetts has seen this year,” GCP president Chris Traietti commented. “What more can you ask for? Two undefeated guys with knockout power going for it all for a chance to elevate their careers to the next level. The spectators better take their bathroom and concession breaks before this one starts. It could end at any moment!”

More than a belt is at stake, more like Bay State (MA) bragging rights for the winner of this potentially “lights-out” fight between these Western (Sumpter, Pittsfield) and Eastern (Perkins, Lynn) Mass. rival fighters.

Sumpter, 29, leaped at the opportunity to fight another undefeated fighter because of the upside for his career that an impressive victory will make within New England boxing circles.

“’ll be better known after this fight,” Sumpter said. “I don’t care about my opponent’s record or anything else. This is the type of fight that will establish me as one of the better boxers around. This fight will open up a lot of doors for me, when I come out on top. More people will start taking notice of me and I’ll be getting calls for bigger fights.

“We are both explosive fighters. I don’t think he’s going the full distance. It’ll come down to skills. I’ve seen some things from him I’ll exploit. Nobody studies me better than me. I’m sure he has watched me, too.”

Pittsfield is 100 miles to the west of Worcester, but Sumpter, who is the reigning Massachusetts Light Heavyweight Champion, is confident his fans will travel in force.

“I’ll feel good traveling,” Sumpter added. “This will be the second card I’ve headlined. I have a solid fan-base and it’s growing with each win. And, like I said, he’s not going the distance.”

In the co-featured event, undefeated Massachusetts Welterweight Champion Denzel “Double Impact” Whitley (11-0, 6 KOs), of Holyoke (MA), takes Hector “El Gatito” Ednar Bobadilla (9-14-1, 4 KOs) in an eight-round bout for the vacant United States Boxing Federation (USBF) Atlantic welterweight title.

Other fighters expected to be in action on the “Pandemonium at The Palladium” undercard include another  Holyoke boxer, super welterweight Carlos Castillo (7-0, 4 KOs), unbeaten Springfield super featherweight Isaiah “Baby Warrior” Cruz (6-0, 4 KOs), and New Haven (CT) featherweight Felix Parrilla (7-0, 6 KOs).

Card subject to change. Tickets are on sale and available for purchase online at www.ThePalladium.net.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET, first bell at 7:30 p.m. ET.

INFORMATION:  

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

Twitter: @Granite_Chin

The World Boxing Association (WBA) Championships Committee has called for a Purse bid to grant the promotional rights of super lightweight world title fight between champion Rolando Romero and challenger Ohara Davies on July 24, in Panama City, Panama.

Plant City, FL (July 11, 2023) — Star Boxing’s Brazilian super middleweight, LUCAS DE ABREU MARTINS (14-3 11KO’s) is set to take on undefeated Guatemalan, LESTER MARTINEZ (15-0 13KO’s) tomorrow night, July 12, at the ProBox Event Center in Plant City, Florida. The 10-round super middleweight bout will air live on Probox.TV and the ProBox Youtube channel.

Both De Abreu and Martinez weighed in today ahead of their clash, with De Abreu coming in at a fit 166.6 lbs and Martinez coming in at 165.6 lbs. De Abreu always comes to fight, having made a good account of himself against top prospects, Diego Pacheco, Ernesbadi Begue, and Darrelle Valsaint. Tomorrow night he looks to be a stiff test for Martinez who is coming off an emphatic TKO victory over Isaiah Steen this past April.

Tune in to ProBox.TV or the ProBox Youtube page to watch the LIVE along with the rest of the five fight card.

LAS VEGAS (July 11, 2023) – Robeisy “El Tren” Ramirez promises to deliver fireworks as he prepares to defend his WBO featherweight world title on enemy turf.
 
Ramirez will face Japanese contender Satoshi “Diamond Left” Shimizu on Tuesday, July 25, at Tokyo’s Ariake Arena. Ramirez-Shimizu will serve as the co-feature to the world title showdown between  WBC/WBO junior featherweight champion Stephen Fulton and pound-for-pound king Naoya “Monster” Inoue.
 
Fulton-Inoue, Ramirez-Shimizu and additional undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+.
 
Ramirez (12-1, 7 KOs), a two-time Olympic gold medalist, took the fast track to becoming a world champion. In 2022, the 29-year-old stopped Irish veteran Eric Donovan in February, starched then-unbeaten contender Abraham Nova in June, and defeated Jose Matias Romero via ninth-round TKO in October. He defeated former world champ Isaac Dogboe on April 1 to capture the vacant WBO featherweight crown. Ramirez, who trains in Las Vegas with Ismael Salas, will now finish training camp in Japan. Shimizu (11-1, 10 KOs) is a 37-year-old southpaw making his first attempt at a world title. The two-time Olympian and 2012 bronze medalist is coming off a second-round stoppage win over Landy Cris Leon last December. 

Following a recent training session, this is what Ramirez had to say about his first world title defense:
 

“Just a few months ago, I fulfilled my cherished goal of becoming world featherweight champion. The time has now come for the first defense of my title, and I couldn’t be happier or more honored for it to be in Tokyo, Japan, in front of a sold-out arena and as chief support to the much-anticipated unification clash between Fulton and Inoue.”

 
“Becoming world champion was a big leap in my quest to be considered the world’s top featherweight and eventually becoming a consensus pound-for-pound fighter. My battle against the tough and experienced Shimizu will be another important stop in my journey.”
 
“I’m looking forward not only to the fight, but also experiencing all that this beautiful country has to offer with its passionate boxing fans, it’s vibrant culture and rich history, among so many other things. See you all at the Ariake Arena on July 25, and get ready for another great show from El Tren!”

RIYADH, Saudi, Arabia (July 11, 2023) —TYSON FURY, THE undefeated Lineal and WBC heavyweight champion of the world, and Francis Ngannou, the former UFC heavyweight champion, will collide on Saturday, October 28th in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in an epic showdown between two giants of their fields following the opening of Riyadh Season.

The clash to find out who is the “Baddest Man on the Planet” will take place under the official rules of professional boxing, with 3 judges ringside adopting the 10-point must system. Both fighters however are promising to meet in the middle of the ring, go to war and win by knockout in devastating fashion.

An agreement has been reached with Queensberry, Top Rank and Ngannou’s promotional banner, GIMIK Fight Promotions, to partner with Riyadh Season to host the history-making event that will capture the imagination of fight fans around the globe.

The world will discover who can rightly claim the title of “Baddest Man on the Planet” in the capital of the Kingdom, when “The Gypsy King” goes up against “The Predator” to determine the true Heavyweight King.

The fight will see the toughest chin in boxing tested by the Most Powerful Punch in the world, as confirmed by the Guinness World Records. This is a matchup where there will be no quarter given.

The mega-fight, one of the richest in history, will take place in a regulation boxing ring under the standard boxing rules in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s largest city.

———————————————————-

Tyson Fury: “As soon as that bell goes, it’ll be bombs away! This guy is supposed to be the hardest puncher in the world, but let’s see how he reacts when he gets hit by the Big GK. I can’t wait to get back out there under the lights. I’m looking forward to showing the world that The Gypsy King is the greatest fighter of his generation in an epic battle with another master of his craft. Francis looked tough when he jumped in the ring after the Whyte fight, but there is no one tougher than me, and you’ll all see that in devastating fashion on October 28. I’d like to thank my promoters Frank Warren and Bob Arum, my manager Spencer Brown, and the guys at Riyadh Season for making this incredible event possible. It’s going to be a fight for the ages. Get up!”

Francis Ngannou: “I’ve been waiting to meet Tyson in the ring for the past three years. My dream was always to box, and to box the best. After becoming the undisputed MMA Heavyweight Champion, this is my opportunity to make that dream come true and cement my position as the baddest man on the planet.  I’d like to thank Riyadh Season and my team at 3Point0 Labs for helping put this event together. All I will say to Tyson for now is he better dance in that ring because if I touch him, he’s going to sleep.”

His Excellency Turki Alalshikh (Chairman of the Board of the General Entertainment Authority and Head of Riyadh Season): “Riyadh Season 2023 is back for its fourth edition of world class experiences and live events — keeping its claim as one of the most anticipated entertainment seasons worldwide. Following its opening ceremony, Riyadh Season 2023 will kick-off with an electrifying boxing match on October 28th, 2023. MMA and boxing audiences will witness the ultimate clash between two champions, Tyson Fury against Francis Ngannou. This face-off will set a new standard for such an event.”

Frank Warren (Queensberry Chairman): “This heavyweight clash has ‘war’ written all over it. Tyson Fury is the most exciting heavyweight on the planet. It is a game changer; we didn’t want to wait for Tyson to get out and here we are at Riyadh Season in a super-fight. Tyson is at his best when he is breaking new boundaries and this event is one of a kind. History will be made in Riyadh with a battle of the giants from the two leading codes of combat fighting. Tyson is the true King of the Ring and Francis Ngannou will present an intriguing challenge as he has the much publicised Most Powerful Punch in the world, this guy has a sledgehammer in each hand. Can Tyson avoid the sledgehammer all fight? What happens if it lands? It will be a truly spectacular event and Riyadh Season will provide a stage fit for two champions in one boxing ring.”

Bob Arum (Top Rank Chairman): “Tyson Fury is one of the finest heavyweight boxers in history, and he now has an opportunity to lock horns with an MMA legend. This will be a historic event, and we know that Tyson Fury will put on a tremendous fight. The people of Riyadh and fight fans around the world are in for a real treat.”

Marquel Martin (Chief Executive Officer, 3Point0 Labs): “Francis has been defeating the odds since he was born and so has Tyson from what I understand. Both are ‘Kings’ of their respective heavyweight divisions in their primes, and we finally get to see whose head is fit to wear the crown. We have all the respect in the world for Tyson and his team, but they are not accustomed to dealing with a force of nature like Francis. He’s simply BUILT DIFFERENT and I think Tyson will feel that in the Ring come October 28th in Riyadh. History is made here and we’re very much looking forward to shocking the world once again.”

Andrew Cutrow (Chief Business Officer, 3Point0 Labs): “All due respect in the world to a heavyweight fighter of Tyson’s calibre, sitting up there with the Mike Tysons and Muhammad Alis of the world, but there is no one with the will and fight that Francis has. He’s beaten every insurmountable challenge in his life, whether in the ring or in life, and it’s fair to say that NO ONE wants to be on the end of one of his punches. Riyadh should get ready for a fight for the ages – one that will go down in history as one of the greatest sporting events of this generation.”

Tyson Fury background:
The undefeated Fury, 34, the 6-foot-9 self-styled Gypsy King with a record of 33-0-1 (24 KOs), first became unified world heavyweight champion back in November 2015 when he toppled the long-standing ruler Wladimir Klitschko.

Dusseldorf, Germany, was the scene of one of the biggest upsets in heavyweight history, when the unified king was befuddled by the bashful Brit. The Ukrainian was completely outfoxed by his younger challenger and Fury wasn’t to be denied. Klitschko was parted from his four belts and Lineal champion status.

After a lengthy period out of the ring, Fury teamed up with Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren to plot his route back to heavyweight domination and, after just two return fights, he accepted the challenge of taking on the previous WBC champion and biggest puncher in world boxing, Deontay Wilder, in December 2018.

The outcome was a hotly disputed draw, which ensured the Fury-Wilder chapter still had a couple more pages to run. Fury linked up with Top Rank and ESPN in America, and a rematch with Wilder took place in February 2020. Fury took many experts by surprise by stating his intention to meet the ferocious hitter in the centre of the ring.

To that end, he teamed up with old comrade SugarHill Steward in order to maximise his own offensive weapons. True to his word, Fury rocked Wilder and put him down in the third and fifth before the towel came in from Wilder’s corner just over halfway through the seventh.

An absolute thriller took place in October 2021 in Las Vegas. Fury picked up where he left off and put Wilder to the canvas in the third before a spirited revival from the ‘Bronze Bomber’ saw Fury down twice in the fourth. The champion prevailed convincingly in the end, with Wilder down the 10th and then out for count in the 11th. An epic trilogy had played out before the eyes of the world.

London was calling when a mandatory defence against WBC interim champion Dillian Whyte was called by the governing body. There was only one place fit to stage the homecoming of The Gypsy King and a packed to the rafters Wembley Stadium became Fury’s field of dreams. Wembley is traditionally known as the ‘Home of Legends’ and Fury added his name to the illustrious list with a spectacular sixth-round stoppage in front of 94,000 spectators.

Fury sold out another stadium last December, this time Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with 60,000 people braving the night air to see him overwhelm Derek Chisora for a third time via a 10^th-round stoppage in what represented a third defence of his WBC world championship.

Francis Ngannou background:
Ngannou, 36, 17-3 (12 KOs) has a life-story that most wouldn’t believe possible. The 6’4, 280-pound physical specimen, hailing from Batie, a small village in Cameroon, Africa, grew up working in a sand quarry starting from the age of 10. At 22 years old, harbouring a dream to box, Francis decided to leave on foot across the Sahara, traveling on raft across the Strait of Gibraltar on a life-threatening journey, only to find himself homeless on the streets of Paris, walking into a gym. It didn’t take long for his coaches and peers there to realize his raw talents and God-given power to knock people out.

He was encouraged to enter an MMA tournament to make some extra cash in November 2013, and less than 8 years later, Francis would become the UFC’s first-ever African Heavyweight Champion, knocking out arguably the greatest Heavyweight in UFC History, Stipe Miocic, spectacularly in the second round. In January 2022, Ngannou defended his title against the undefeated interim UFC Champion Ciryl Gane, winning the fight via unanimous decision, all while fighting on a torn ACL and MCL against doctors’ guidance.

In late 2022, Ngannou decided to enter free agency and departed the UFC following the end of his contract, subsequently signing an unprecedented mega-deal as a global strategic partner with global MMA co-leader Professional Fighters League (PFL) and their Super Fights Division in 2023, further serving as the Chairman of PFL Africa, set to launch in 2025.

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

LOS ANGELES (July 11, 2023) – Undefeated super flyweight John “Scrappy” Ramirez (11-0, 8 KOs), fighting out of South-Central Los Angeles, seems to be the best kept secret in the super flyweight division.

Ramirez, 26, is rarely if ever mentioned by the media as an elite super flyweight, despite him being the top rated 115-pounder in the World Boxing Association (WBA) ratings.

Boxing is a risk-reward sport, and the bottom line is “Scrappy” is too risky for many of the “name” super flyweights to fight, at least right now. His problem is the relatively late start he got in boxing. He has been on the fast track, capturing the WBA Continental and North American Boxing Association (NABA) super flyweight titles along his long, arduous journey. More significantly, though, is that he’s extremely explosive in the ring and improving each fight.

“Scrappy” accepted an offer last December to face veteran Thai boxer Sirichai Thaiyen (64-4, 42 KOs), who was then rated No, 3 (the No. 1 spot is open), in a WBA Title Eliminator to determine the mandatory challenger for WBA Super Flyweight World Champion Joshua “El Profesor” Franco. Nothing materialized, Thaiyen has been dropped to No. 8 in the WBA’s ratings, and Franco lost his title to Kazuto Ioka (30-3-1, 15 KOs) and retired. Ramirez’ opponent is being determined. The WBA will go down its ratings until it secures the highest-rated fighter who is available and accepts the challenge to fight “Scrappy.”

“I’ll fight whoever is put in front of me,” Ramirez explained. “In the end, boxing is a business and the only thing I’m missing is a world title. I am on the path to what I want, fighting the new WBA super flyweight champion, (Kazuto) Ioka. I’ll go to Japan to fight him if that’s what it’ll take.”

___________________________________________________

WBA SUPER FLYWEIGHT RATINGS

Champion : Kazuto Ioka (30-2-1, 15 KOs), Japan

1. Unrated
2. John “Scrappy’’ Ramirez (12-0, 8 KOs), USA – WBA Continental Champion
3. Kosei Tanaka (19-1, 11 KOs), Japan
4. Roman “Chocolito” Gonzalez (51-4, 41 KOs), Nicaragua
5. Bin Lu (3-1, 2 KOs), China – WBA International Champion
6. “El General” David Cuellar Contreras (23-0, 16 KOs), Mexico
7. Ronal Batista (15-3, 9 KOs), Panama
8. Sirichai Thaiyen (65-5, 43 KOs, Thailand
9. Argi Cortez (25-3-2, 10 KOs), Mexico
10. Phumelele “Truth” Cafu (8-0-3, 7 KOs), South Africa
11. Felix Montenegro (12-9-1, 8 KOs), Panama
12. Kenta Nakagawa (24-4-1, 12 KOs), Panama
13. Rene “El Indio” Calixto Bibiano (20-0, 7 KOs), Mexico
14. Winston “El Fantasmas” Guerrero (19-0, 12 KOs), Nicaragua
15. Keiver “El Chamo” Fernandez (25-1-1, 13 KOs), Venezuela 

_____________________________________________________________________                 

Ramirez adds, “The WBA is the oldest organization with great champions throughout its history.”

Ramirez, the lone USA representative in the WBA super flyweight rankings, simply hasn’t had enough time fighting yet as a professional to have an elite name in the WBA ratings such as No. 4 Roman “Chocolito” Gonzalez, the 5-time, 4-division world champion, or even No. 5 Bin Lu, who was a 2020 Chinese Olympian that had a world title fight in only his second pro fight, albeit in a loss to WBA Light Flyweight World Champion to Carlos Canizales. The other world super flyweight champions are all better known than “Scrappy” at this stage of his career: Juan Francisco Estrada (WBC), Fernando Martinez (IBF Super champ), and Junto Nakatani (WBO).

There are also other more recognizable names in the top 15 of the major sanctioning bodies than Ramirez’ in the super flyweight division such as former world champion Donnie Nietes, Srisket Sor Rungvisai and Carlos Cuadras, Andrew Maloney, and Jade Bonea. Plus, Ramirez is a dangerous opponent for any fighter, including world champions.

“Either the media doesn’t want to talk about me or I’m not relevant,” Ramirez said. “I’m the WBA Continental champ, so I’m in the loop. It doesn’t matter because I’ll get the respect that I deserve. “I’m a high-risk, low-reward fighter right now. I’ve been saying that since day one. I know  I’m risky to fight but there are other fighters like me out there. There have been some changes in the WBA with Ioka being the new super flyweight champion. I’m pursuing the eliminator to become Ioka’s mandatory challenger. I won’t be denied. Somebody has to step up in the WBA top 15 and fight me. My time is coming!”

“Scrappy” Ramirez is working with 3 Point Management (3 PM), a growing company based in Los Angeles that has a growing stable of gifted boxers including former world super middleweight champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (44-1, 30 KOs), light heavyweight Kareem Hackett (10-0, 5 KOs), super middleweight Cem “Champ” Kilic (17-1, 11 KOs), and heavyweights Darius “DFG “ Fulghum (6-0, 6 KOs) and Zach Spiller (3-0, 2 KOs).

The World Boxing Association (WBA), through its Championships Committee, issued a resolution for the minimum weight in which it ordered a Purse bid between Thammanoon Niyomtrong and Erick Rosa for next July 21, to be held via Zoom

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE (July 10, 2023)–Weight’s for Tuesday night’s Jimmy Adams Promotions card at The Troubadour Nashville.

Victor Hernandez 133.6 – Mike Fowler Will weigh in Tuesday

Desmond Lyons 139.6 – Ivan Reyes 140.2

Eric Arellano 224.4 – Javier Frazier 204

Ermes Orta 139 – Jason Page Jr. Will weigh in Tuesday

Kevin Torian 198.4 – Raphael Carolina 200.6

Promoter: Jimmy Adams Promotions

Venue: Troubadour Nashville

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

Free Stream: countrybox247.com / FITE.TV (Marc Abrams & Former NFL All-Pro Albert Haynesworth on the call)

Fort Worth, Texas (July 10, 2023)–After a successful debut in Fort Worth, Texas on April 27th, King’s Promotions will be back for what will be an entertaining night of boxing this Thursday night at The El Corral West Night Club.

In a six-round featured bout, Emmanuel Moreno (3-0) of nearby Wichita Falls, Texas takes on Manuel Chavez Garcia (1-1) of Mexico in a bantamweight fight.

In Four-round bouts:

Jose Gomez (3-0) of Dallas battles Raul Garcia Jr. (2-9,1 KO) of Oklahoma City in a welterweight bout.

Alex Araiza Mones (0-1-1) of Fort Worth fights debuting Macy Breaux of Larose, Louisiana in a bantamweight contest.

Jaycob Ramos (1-0) of Plano, Texas fights an opponent to be named in a featherweight bout.

Malik Calhoun Khalil (2-1, 2 KOs) of North Richland, Texas takes on Austin Dulworth (0-3) of Dallas in a middleweight contest.

Jordan Najar (1-0) of Fort Worth, Texas fights debuting Raymond Goodine in a super bantamweight fight.

Fernando Solis (1-0) of Fort Worth, Texas boxes Raul Zamudio of Pasadena, Texas in a featherweight bout.

Nathaniel Vincent of Grand Prairie, Texas will make his pro debut against Daniel Gray of Laurens, South Carolina in a welterweight bout.

Tickets are $200, $100, $60 and $40 and can be purchased at

CLICK FOR TICKETS

Harlem Eubank will tackle Ishmael Ellis in Edinburgh next week, as Lee McGregor’s huge homecoming show becomes ever bigger. 

The unbeaten Brighton stylist fights Ellis over 10 rounds, live and free-to-air on Channel 5, at the Meadowbank Sports Centre, on Friday, July 21. 

‘Lightning’ McGregor headlines the show by taking on Mexican puncher Erik Robles for the vacant IBO world super bantamweight title on what promises to be an emotionally charged night in the Scottish capital. 

Now, super lightweight contender Eubank has been confirmed for the hard-hitting undercard, which already boasts the UK’s most fearsome heavyweight prospect, Matty Harris, world-ranked super featherweight star, Sultan Zaurbek and returning featherweight contender Isaac Lowe. 

Wasserman Boxing, in association with Ladbrokes, Numan and Infinitum Entertainment, can also reveal that heavyweight Kash Ali will face Bodhan Myronets over six rounds on an evening not-to-be-missed. 

The full card, with emerging talents and local heroes still to be announced, will be confirmed in the coming days. 

Harlem Eubank said: “The super lightweight scene is on fire at the moment, both domestically and internationally, and I know I am on the cusp of some huge fights. 

“And because those big fights are on the horizon, there is no room for error, so I have to be firing on all cylinders in Edinburgh on July 21. 

“But training has gone very well, and I plan on making a statement in front of the Scottish fans.”  

Kalle Sauerland, Global Head of Boxing at Wasserman Boxing, said: “This is going to be a breakthrough year for Harlem, where his career goes to new levels. 

“He dealt brilliantly with a late replacement, as the headline fighter, at York Hall in March and now, in Edinburgh next week, he gets to show what he is all about to a new audience. 

“Harlem is on the brink of some massive nights and, mark my words, he will be the next Eubank to become a world champion.” 

New Haven, CT (July 10, 2023)–World ranked junior lightweight contender William Foster III will be back in action this Wednesday night when he takes on Fradamil Macayo at The Probox Event Center in Plant City, Fl.

The fight will headline a card on ProBox TV beginning at 7:30 PM ET 

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

Macayo is a power punching southpaw from Venezuela who has a record of 16-1 with 13 knockouts. Macayo has wins over undefeated fighters Jose Luis Marcano (9-0) and Armando Ramirez Almanza (5-0-1).

?“We are excited to see the best William Foster the world has seen to date on July 12. He gets better every time he steps in the ring. He has had a great camp and his coach always has him fully prepared for battle. William is a true warrior who is ready and willing to take on any of the division’s elite. This bout is for two regional titles (WBA Fedecentro and WBO Global). He is already ranked in the WBA and with a win over Macayo he will crack the WBO world ratings which means he is then one phone call away from a well deserved world title opportunity. His recent victories over Edwin De Los Santos and Avery Sparrow coupled with an impressive showing against Macayo should catapult William up the world rankings. His resume of victories is quite impressive for someone with only 15 fights! By facing and defeating such stiff competition William is fully prepared for anything that he sees in the ring. It is just a matter of time before William is recognized as the class of the 130 pound division!”, stated David Dubinsky of DKO Boxing, Foster’s Co-Manager.

Said Foster, “Camp went really well. I sparred more than 78 rds for this fight and I sparred with different types of fighters, my coach always pushes me beyond my limits.. I expect Macayo to be the pressure fighter and try to take the fight to me but he seems smart enough to not go straight in. I’m going to surprise him with my speed and skills that I have developed over the years and with a victory I am hopeful to get a world title fight next. I’ve been in the business long enough and it’s time to get my shot at the title.”

QUINCY, Mass. (July 10, 2023) – Like some of his fellow countrymen in the past, undefeated Irish light heavyweight prospects Tommy “The Governor” Hyde (5-0, 3 KOs) and Thomas “The Kid” O’Toole (7-0, 5 KOs) have traveled across “the pond” from their native Ireland to Boston in order to enhance their professional boxing careers.

They will both be fighting on the August 11th (Aug. 12th rain date) on the “Veterans Stadium Showcase” Pro-Am card, presented by Granite Chin Promotions (GCP), at Veterans Memorial Stadium on Quincy (MA), a suburb of Boston only 10 miles to the south of the Massachusetts capital.

“This card wouldn’t be complete without some Irish flair to it,” GCP president Chris Traietti said. “With that said, I didn’t want just any Irish fighters on the show. I wanted two of the hottest prospects. Working with both guys has been a pleasure. Their teams have been great. Their fan-bases are in for a treat come August 11th.”

They’ve built solid fan-bases of Irish natives who now live in the United States, as well as Irish American boxing fans, just like their predecessors from the Emerald Isle, world champion Steve Collins and Mike Tyson-conqueror Kevin McBride.

Although Hyde and O’Toole will be fighting in separate six-round bouts this could be a prelude to a showdown between the Irish light heavyweights. They fought twice as amateurs with each winning one and in the future, they could be matched against each other once again, only this time as professionals.

Tommy Hyde (L) – (picture credit: Garreth Croke)

The 24-year-old Hyde is a three-time Irish National Champion who had an 80-26 amateur record. His father, Gary Hyde, is an international matchmaker who has represented numerous world champions.

“I am delighted to be fighting in Boston again,” Hyde said. “It’s like a second home now. I have a lot of family and friends living there and they all show me great support when I’m fighting there. It’s a big boxing city and it’s great to be following in the footsteps of Steve Collins and Kevin McBride who I really admire.

“I fought all over the world as an amateur in 2019. I fought outdoors in a multi-national tournament in Odessa, Ukraine. It was a really good experience, so I’m really looking forward to fighting outdoors in a Boston stadium.

“This will be the second show we shared since we’ve been pros and it probably won’t be the last. A fight between us could be big down the line in Boston or Ireland. He’s an Irishman like me, so I’ll be supporting him until we fight just like any other Irish boxer.”

Hyde faces an opponent to be determined.

Thomas O’Toole (R) – (photo credit: Emily Harney / Fightography

O’Toole, 25, is another celebrated Irish amateur boxer who captured top honors in the Haringey Box Cup and Irish Elevate final, in which he decisioned Hyde. “The Kid” won 51 of 60 amateur matches. Ten Years ago, O’Toole fought outdoors for the first and only time in an amateur show at Boston City Hall, arranged by then- Boston Mayor Marty Walsh.

A southpaw, O’Toole lives in nearby Braintree (MA). Six of his seven pro matches have been held in Greater Boston, the lone exception in Manchester, New Hampshire. “The Kid” is moving up one division to fight Massachusetts cruiserweight champion Scott “Scottie Bombs” Lampert (5-8, 4 KOs) for the vacant United States Boxing Federation (USBF) cruiserweight crown.

“Fighting outdoors does make a difference,” O’Toole commented, “especially if it’s hot and humid. I couldn’t prepare for fighting outdoors here in the summer if I was training in Ireland. We don’t have hot and humid weather there. I’ve been training here in this weather. It’s amazing how the weather can zap your strength. It did have an effect on me when I fought in Boston outdoors as an amateur.

“Tommy and I have gone our separate ways as pros, but our paths may grow down the line. We haven’t seen much of each other when we fought on the same card here. He is coming on very well in the pro ranks. He has a good man behind him in his father, Gary, and I think Tommy can go far. He’s said that a fight between us can easily be made if it makes sense. I agree. We both have big fan bases. This is going to be an amazing, fun night.”

Irish eyes will certainly be smilin’ Aug. 11th in Quincy.

In the eight-round, main event, former New England Welterweight Champion Mike “Bad Man, Ohan, Jr. (18-2, 9 KOs), of Holbrook, and Haverhill’s Harry “The Hitman” Gigliotti (9-4, 3 KOs), reigning ABF Atlantic super lightweight title holder, will throw-down in a non-title fight.

United States Boxing Federation (USBF) Champion Julien “Black Dragon” Baptiste (5-3, 2 KOs), of Woburn, and Massachusetts titleholder Jamer Jones (3-1, 3 KOs), of Pittsfield, are in a middleweight unification bout for their titles in the eight-round co-featured event.

Gigliotti’s stablemates, undefeated Lowell lightweight Gabriel “The Menace” Morales (7-0, 4 KOs) and unbeaten Methuen middleweight Luke “The Quiet Storm” Iannuccilli (6-0, 3 KOs) will also be in action, respectively, versus Nathan Benichou (2-16-1, 2 KOs) and Ryan Thomas Clark (2-4, 1 KO).

Also fighting on the undercard is undefeated middleweight prospect Francis “Frank The Tank” Hogan (14-0, 13 KOs), of nearby Weymouth (MA), will be in action, as well as Scituate heavyweight Kevin Nagle (2-0, 2 KOs), vs. TBAs. Hogan was a celebrated amateur who was a 2020 USA Boxing Olympic Team alternate as well as a 2010 New England Golden Gloves champion.

Card subject to change.

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

Sponsorship opportunities are available by contacting Traietti at chris@granite-chin-promotions.com for details.

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

Long Island, NY (July 10, 2023)– Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing’s critically acclaimed fight series, “Rockin’ Fights” is back at The Paramount in Huntington Long Island on Saturday, October 28, 2023.

Star Boxing is proud to present the 45th “Rockin’ Fights” professional boxing card at The Paramount. The Paramount has become a second home to Star Boxing, developing the likes of world champions Chris Algieri and Joe Smith Jr., along with other top prospects and talent that have graced the squared circle in Huntington, Long Island. Star Boxing is pleased to continue the tradition of action-packed fights on Long Island and is looking forward to another thrilling show on October 28th.

Tickets for “Rockin’ Fights” 45 will be available via presale and public on sale at the following times:

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS

Follow all the action as Jaron Ennis defends the IBF Interim Welterweight Title against Roiman Villa

NO BROWSER REFRESH NEEDED. THE PAGE WILL UPDATE AUTOMATICALLY

Round 1: Right to body from Ennis…Jabs…Right to body…Right to head…

ROUND 2 Big Straight left from Ennis…Blood from nose of Villa..3 Punch combination

ROUND 3 Right from Villa…Ennis lands a wicked counter left..Left…counter right from Villa…Uppercut…Hard left from Ennis…Good exchange..

ROUND 4 Left from Ennis..Quick combination..Flicking left…2 lefts drve Villa back…Hard right…Left from Villa…

ROUND 5 Villa lands a combination in the corner…Quick combo from Ennis..Step around right..Hard right from Villa..Uppercut from Ennis…Straight left

ROUND 6 Jab to body bt Ennis..Straight left….Right from Villa…Huge combination from Ennis has Villa hurt

ROUND 7 Hard left from Ennis…Vicious uppercuts and combination rock Villa…He has shown a rock chon but taking a beating

ROIND 8  Villa lands a right…Ennis lands vicious shots with both hands…Villa’s face is a mess.

ROUND 9 Villa lands a right…Huge shots from Ennis

ROUND 10 Ennis ripping shots...Villa is HURT…CHOPPING LEFT AND VICIOUS RIGHT…DOWN GOES VILLA FIGHT OVER

Round 1 Jab to body fromL Gomez…Left…
Round 2 Right to body from Taylor..BIG RIGHT AND DOWN GOES GOMEZ…Right from Taylor..Hard right…Right to body…Hard jab…Body shot..Right to head..
Round 3 2 hard shots frim Taylor..Right to body…Right to body…Left from Gomez…Combination from Taylor.Another body shot
Round 4 Good left from Taylor..Quick rigjt…Body work…Jab…Left to body from Gomez..Left…
Round 5 Right from Taylor..Right..Left from Gomez…Right from Taylor…Left from Gomez..
Round 6 Left from Taylor..Body work…Left from Gomez..Right hook..Big right from Taylor at the bell
Round 7 Left from Gomez..Right jab…Left to body…Uppercut from Taylor…body work…Left from Gomez..Left…Body shot from Gomez..
Round 8 Uppercut from Taylor…Left from Gomez…Left…Quick right from Taylor..Body shot
Round 9  Counter left friom Gomez…2 hard rights from Taylor…Left from Gomez…Right hook and left \…Left to body
Round 10 Hard left uppercut from Gomez..Body work from Taylor…Left from Gomez..

96-93 TWICE AND 99-90 FOR TAYLOR

Round 1: Jab from De Los Santos..Right hook..Left to body from Adorno..Straight left from De Los Santos…
Round 2 Left from De Los Santos…Jab..Straight left…
Round 3 De Los Santos lands a right hook…Good right jook..Straight left…Hard jab..Uppercut…
Round 4 Straight left from De Los Santos…Right to the body…1-2…Right to Body..
Round 5 Right hook from De Los Santos…Right Hook…Right from Adorno
Round 6 Right hook from Adorno..Jab from De Los Santos…Left hook from Adorno…1-2 from De Los Santos…Right Hook…Left to body
Round 7 Left from Adorno…1-2 from De Los Santos…Right to the body…3 punch combination….Hard left…
Round 8 
Round 9 Left to body from De Los Santos..Left..
Round 10 1-2 from De Los Santos..

100-90 TWICE AND 99-91 FOR DE LOS SANTOS

ATLANTIC CITY — Jaron Ennis retained the IBF Interim Welterweight title with a 10th round stoppage over Roiman Villa at The Adrian Phillips Ballroom inside Jim Whalen Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City.

The fight started off with Ennis showing his superior ability that featured his hand-speed as he landed big shots from both the orthodox and southpaw stance. The effects of Ennis’ work were evident as early as round two, as blood began to leak from the nose of Villa. Ennis continued to draw oohs and ahhs from the fans as he landed some eye catching shots. Villa showed a tremendous chin as he was rocked several times, but was sturdy on his feet. Villa tried to fight back valiantly and even got some hard right hands and mixed in a couple scoring uppercuts.

Ennis really started pouring on the fire in rounds eight and nine as his assault had Villa fortunate to get out of the rounds. The ringside doctor checked Villa after each frame and decided to let the fight continue. That would last only 87 seconds into round 10 as Ennis landed a hard chopping left hand that was followed by a pinpoint right that finally sent Villa to the canvas and the fight was stopped.

Ennis of Philadelphia is now 31-0 with 28 knockouts. Villa of Venezuela is now 26-2.

JARON ENNIS

“My performance was good. I could have listened to my corner a little more. My dad wanted me to do more body shots and more angles and not stand in front of him. I was getting hit with shots I wasn’t supposed to get hit with.

“I appreciate Villa taking this fight. Hats off to him and his family. I appreciate him for coming in and being a warrior. Let’s give it up for Villa. He’s a tough guy.

“I was breaking him down and I came out victorious. I knew he was a tough kid. I just had to be smart and take my time and keep touching and touching and eventually I was going to get him.

“We got to wait for Errol Spence and Bud to fight and you know I want the winner of that fight.

“I was setting him up. I hit him with a big left hand and I knew he was going down. So I was waiting for the left shot and I threw a hook and I knew he was going so I just threw one more and that was it. I knew they were going to stop it.

“Spence-Crawford is a great fight, a 50-50 fight, may the best man win. And Jaron “Boots” Ennis wants the winner of Errol Spence and Terence Crawford. Let’s make it happen.

“I’ll take Stanionis. Virgil Ortiz fell out so I’ll take Stanionis in a heartbeat. I want to get into the ring one more time before the end of the year to make it three. Stanionis, Keith Thurman, Ugas, Bud, Spence, all the top guys out there. Let’s make these fights happen.”

Marquis Taylor Decisions Yoelvis Gomez

Marquis Taylor won a 10-round unanimous decision over Yoelvis Gomez in a middleweight fight.

Taylor scored a knockdown in round two when he landed a right hand to the side of the head that put Gomez down on the canvas. Taylor continued to beat Gomez to the punch and worked the body well. Gomez tried to make a stand late by attempting to land power shots, but they were not effective.

Taylor landed 160 of 712 punches. Gomez was 120 of 549.

Taylor, 158 lbs of Galena Park, TX won by scores of 99-91 and 96-93 twice and is now 15-1-2. Gomez, 159 lbs of Las Vegas is 6-1.

MARQUIS TAYLOR

“Only through God’s grace am I able to do this. I want to thank everyone who put this together. Mom we did it.

“This is what I wanted to do my whole life. It took me a long time and a lot of battles to make it here. But it was all worth it.

“I proved to myself that I can be in here with anyone and overcome and prevail.

“This is my second weight class in nine months. I proved it to myself. It’s not about the weight. It’s about skill and hard work and trusting my team.

“I was working inside and staying close and boom. Luckily when he threw his shot he kind of fell off balance and I helped him.

“At first I’m not going to lie at the beginning of the fight it was hard because he’s really strong. He was doing what he’s supposed to do and that’s use his weight and push me down, so I had to get into his midsection and break him down, so I started tapping that belly and pushing in.

“I knew the safest space to be with him was inside. Outside he has crazy power so I had to cut it off and smother him so that’s what I did. I really hope to be back on here [on SHOWTIME] and give the fans what they pay for.

“After I dropped him I was like, okay, the body shots are going to get to him and I knew I had to keep him moving back. I’m going to keep him on his heels. He’s kind of a bully in the ring and bullies don’t like to be pushed back like that.

“I started to get him to second guess himself which took away his confidence in throwing power shots. It’s dangerous when a power puncher has a lot of confidence because you can make only so many shots miss. Some will get through.

“We’re fighting at 154 and 160 to keep the window of opportunity as wide as possible. Right now we’re calling myself a two-weight division fighter.

“Tim Tszyu – if he wants to stay busy I’ll fight him. Because he’s not going to get that Jermell Charlo fight because of Canelo. I would like to fight him or anyone in the top 5 or top 10 at 160. It’s time for me to fight the best.”

YOELVIS GOMEZ

“Of course I’m frustrated. The ref kept getting in the way and wouldn’t let me work in the range I wanted, short distance and making Taylor feel me. This is professional boxing. It’s not too much to ask for him to let me go do my job.

“I lost my balance when I got knocked down. He threw his punch trying to see if it landed and I got caught. I hurt him too, but I couldn’t take him down.

“I know that my team is sad right now, but I refuse to mope or hang my head. I’m going to keep working hard and come back even better. You can count on that.”

De Los Santos Decisions Adorno

Edwin De Los Santos won a 10-round unanimous decision over Joseph Adorno in a lightweight bout.

De Los Santos landed 144 of 470 punches; Adorno was just 37 of 240.

De Los Santos, 133.1 lbs of Santo Domingo, DR won by scores of 100-90 twice and 99-91 and is now 16-1. Adorno, 135 lbs of Allentown, PA is 17-3-2.

EDWIN DE LOS SANTOS

“Adorno came to basically survive in this fight. We came prepared to show our boxing skills in this fight tonight.

“I can’t tell you all the tricks we did in training. But we did a lot of hills, climbing, swimming, a lot of boxing, sparring. Again, I don’t want to reveal all of the secrets but that’s some of what was done for this fight.

“I have the potential to be more disciplined and to do more boxing and wait for the big names.

“I have to just talk to my promoter (about what’s next). But I don’t care. Anyone at 135 I’ll take care of.”

JOSEPH ADORNO

“The strategy was to box him, but he’s a southpaw and he was hard to figure out. He’s the best southpaw I’ve faced. He was well-prepared and knew how to manage the ring.

“Moving down in weight did play into my performance a little, but I really don’t want to make any excuses. I shouldn’t have taken this fight right away, I should have fought at 137-pounds first. It is what it is though, he was the better man. He did his job.”

Euri Cedeno demolished William Townsel inside of a round in their scheduled eight-round battle of undefeated middleweights.

Cedeno came out and threw some vicious power punches and dropped Townsel with a hard left hand. Cedeno jumped on Townsel and landed some more hard shots and the fight was stopped as Townsel was dropped again at 1:41.

Cedeno, 159 lbs of La Romana, DR is 5-0 with five knockoouts. Townsel, 157.5 lbs of Virginia Beach is 5-1.

Heavyweight Steven Torres remained undefeated with a third round stoppage of James Evans in a rematch of a draw that took place 19 months ago.

In round three, Torres battered Evans against the ropes until the bout was stopped at 1:08.

Torres, 239 lbs of Reading, PA is 6-0-1 with six knockouts. Evans, 225.5 lbs of Toledo, OH is 6-1-1.

Dwyke Flemmings Jr. remained undefeated by stopping Henry Rivera in round three of a scheduled four round super welterweight bout.

In round two, Rivera began to bleed from the nose. Flemmings continued to beat up a game Rivera until the bout was stopped at 1:57 of round three.

Ismail Muhmmad stopped Parker Bruno in round three of a scheduled four-round super lightweight bout.

In round two, Muhammad was credited with a knockdown after landing a right hook that made Bruno’s globe touch the canvas. Later in the round, Muhammad dropped Bruno with a straight left hand. In round three, Muhammad continued to batter a Bruno, whose nose was bloody and the bout was stopped at 1:45.

Muhmmad, 143 lbs of Philadelphia is 2-0 with two knockouts. Bruno, 141 lbs of Clear Lakes, TX is 0-2.

Diego Pacheco stopped Manuel Gallegos in round four of their 10-round super middleweight bout in Monterrey, Mexico.

Pacheco was impressive as he hurt Gallegos in round four with a hard combination and then he dropped Gallegos with a left hook to the body. Pacheco then landed about eight hard shots to the head that forced a referee stoppage at 2:45.

Pacheco, 168 lbs of Los Angeles is 19-0 with 16 knockouts. Gallegos, 168 lbs of Los Mochis, MEX is 19-2-1.

Eduardo Hernandez stopped late-replacement Hector Garcia in round three of their 10-round lightweight bout.

In round two, Hernandez rocked Garcia and had him in trouble throughout the latter part if the round. Garcia was cut under his right eye. In round three, Hernandez was all over Garcia as he landed a big left hook that was followed by a big right that was followed by a 20 punch combination that put Garcia down and the fight was stopped at 25 seconds.

Hernandez, 137 lbs of Mexico City is now 34-1 with 31 knockouts. Garcia, 137 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 20-8-4.

Jonathan Rodriguez and Israel Gonzalez battled to a 10-round split draw in a bantamweight bout.

Each fighter won a scorecard by a 96-94 score and a third card was even at 95-95.

Rodriguez, 115 lbs of San Luis Patosi, MEX is now 24-2-1. Gonzalez, 115 lbs of Los Cabos, MEX is 29-5-2.

Neider Valdez remained undefeated with a third round stoppage over Isaias Ortiz in a flyweight contest.

In round three, Valdez landed a hard left to the body that put Ortiz to the canvas. Ortiz could not beat the count at 1:50.

Valdez, 108 lbs of Monterrey, MEX is 9-0-2 with eight knockouts. Ortiz, 109 lbs of Mexico City is 5-4.

Federico Pacheco stopped Oscar Heredia after round two of their four-round heavyweight victory.

In round two, Pacheco dropped Heredia with a double left hook to the body. Heredia was in a lot of discomfort after the round and did not answer the bell.

Pacheco, 254 lbs of Los Angeles is 4-0 with three knockouts. Heredia, 252 lbs of Monterrey, MEX is 2-3.

Interim IBF Welterweight Title – 12 Rounds

Jaron Ennis – 145 ½ lbs.

Roiman Villa – 146 ½ lbs.

Referee: David Fields; Judges: Lynne Carter (Pa.), Mark Consentino (N.J.), John McKaie (N.Y.)

Middleweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Yoelvis Gómez – 159 lbs.

Marquis Taylor – 158 lbs.

Referee: Harvey Dock; Judges: Ronald McNair (N.Y.), Robin Taylor (N.Y.), Paul Wallace (Md.)

Lightweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Edwin De Los Santos – 133 lbs.

Joseph Adorno – 135 lbs.

Referee: Charles Fitch; Judges: Ronald McNair (N.Y.), Robin Taylor (N.Y.), Paul Wallace (Md.)

SHOWTIME BOXING COUNTDOWN

Stream Live at 7:30 PM ET/4:30 PM PT

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

Middleweight Bout – Eight Rounds

Euri Cedeno – 159 lbs.

William Townsel – 157 ½ lbs.

Referee: Eric Dali; Judges: Ronald McNair (N.Y.), Robin Taylor (N.Y.), Paul Wallace (Md.)

Heavyweight Bout – Six Rounds

Steven Torres – 239 lbs.

James Evans – 225 ½ lbs.

Referee: Eric Dali; Judges: Ronald McNair (N.Y.), Robin Taylor (N.Y.), Paul Wallace (Md.)

Super Welterweight Bout – Four Rounds

Dwyke Flemmings Jr. – 156 ½ lbs.

Henry Rivera – 156 ½ lbs.

Referee: Charles Fitch; Judges: Ronald McNair (N.Y.), Robin Taylor (N.Y.), Paul Wallace (Md.)

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. and the director is Bob Dunphy. 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 hosts Luke Thomas and Brian Campbell, who also serves as an analyst alongside Marquez on SHOBOX^®, as well as by Stephen Jackson, the former NBA champion and co-host of the popular show ALL THE SMOKE^®.

# # #

ABOUT ENNIS VS. VILLA

Ennis vs. Villa will see undefeated rising star Jaron “Boots” Ennis defend his Interim IBF Welterweight Title against all-action contender Roiman Villa headlining action live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, July 8 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast begins at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT and will also feature rising Cuban sensation Yoelvis Gómez taking on middleweight contender Marquis Taylor in the 10-round co-main event, plus hard-hitting lightweight knockout artist Edwin De Los Santos faces former amateur superstar Joseph Adorno in the explosive 10-round telecast opener.

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

ORANGE, CA (July 7, 2023) – After an illustrious and groundbreaking journey spanning over two decades, Thompson Boxing Promotions, founded by the late Ken Thompson, has made the difficult decision to conclude its operations. Thompson Boxing will be holding its final “Path to Glory” show on Friday, July 21, 2023, marking the end of an era that has left an indelible mark on the sport.

Louie Lopez (13-2-1, 4 KOs) will headline in a welterweight 8-round main event against an opponent TBA. George Acosta (15-1, 2 KOs) will fight an opponent TBA in an 8-round super featherweight co-feature. 

Thompson Boxing Promotions, renowned for its commitment to promoting world-class boxing events, has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of California’s boxing scene. Throughout their remarkable journey, Thompson Boxing has showcased countless talents, supported aspiring fighters, and provided memorable moments for fans from all walks of life.

Under the visionary leadership of the late Ken Thompson and the guidance of General Manager and matchmaker Alex Camponovo, Thompson Boxing Promotions has consistently delivered high-quality events, placing a strong emphasis on integrity, respect, and fairness. From the unforgettable nights at the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, and the action-packed evenings at the Omega Products International Event Center in Corona, California, Thompson Boxing Promotions has left an extraordinary legacy that will forever be cherished.

Alex Camponovo expressed his gratitude to the fans and fighters who have been part of this incredible journey. “We are deeply grateful to our loyal fans, who have been the driving force behind Thompson Boxing’s success over the years. Their unwavering support and passion for the sport have been truly inspiring. We also extend our heartfelt appreciation to all the fighters we have had the privilege to represent. It has been an honor to work with such exceptional talent for the past 23 years, and we take pride in the role we played in their careers.”

Throughout its existence, Thompson Boxing Promotions has built a reputation as a promoter dedicated to the development of young fighters, providing them with a platform to showcase their skills and pursue their dreams. The organization’s commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the sport has been commendable, as it consistently embraced fighters from various backgrounds and nurtured their potential.

As the curtain closes on Thompson Boxing Promotions, the boxing community acknowledges the incredible impact the organization has had on the sport. The legacy of Ken Thompson will continue to inspire future generations of promoters, fighters, and fans.

“Path to Glory” will take place at the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, CA on Friday, July 21, 2023. Doors open at 6:45 pm PT with the first fight starting at 8:00 pm PT. Tickets priced $50, $75, $100, and $125, are available for purchase by calling 714-935-0900 or online at www.thompsonboxing.com. 

Fight fans will be able to watch all Thompson Boxing fights, weigh-ins, and behind-the-scenes content, via their new Mobile App downloadable on Apple and Google.

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO (July 7, 2023) – The undercard is set for the July 15 Golden Boy Fight Night: Mexico Edition show featuring No. 3 WBC-ranked Alan “Rey David” Picasso (24-0-1, 13 KOs) fighting against Sabelo Ngebinyana (15-6-1, 11 KOs) of Cape Town, South Africa. The 10-round fight is now for the WBC Silver Super Bantamweight Title and will be an eliminator for a world championship. Presented in association with Zanfer Boxing, the event will take place at Restaurante Arroyo, and broadcast on Azteca TV in Mexico and worldwide on DAZN.

In the co-main event, Monterrey, Mexico’s Rafael “El Divino” Espinoza (20-0, 17 KOs) will fight in a 10-round featherweight match against Ally “Gent Mawe” Mwerangi (12-6, 8 KOs) of Morogoro, Tanzania. Espinoza was last seen on March 25 with an impressive third-round knockout over Rafael Rosas Ramirez.

Also representing Monterrey, Aaron Silva (12-0, 9 KOs) will attempt to keep up his knockout streak in an eight-round super middleweight fight against Hassam “La Sombra” Valenzuela (20-4-2, 16 KOs) of Hermosillo, Mexico. Silva was last seen dazzling the crowd with a fourth-round knockout against Jaime Hernandez last March 2023.

In a six-round super bantamweight fight, Gregory “Goyo” Morales (14-1, 8 KOs) of San Antonio, Texas will face Mexico City’s Rodolfo Montoya (30-13-1, 28 KOs). Morales was last seen scoring a unanimous decision win against warrior Diuhl Olguin last December 2022.

Opening the fight card and returning to the ring after a successful debut performance this past May 2023, Santa Ana’s Johnny “Sugarcane” Cañas (1-0) will fight Hugo Vega (1-3-1) of Mexico City. The two will participate in a four-round super lightweight fight.

?

###

Golden Boy Fight Night on DAZN is presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

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

Diego Pacheco has told promoter Eddie Hearn that he’ll show he’s ready to face his fellow contenders at Super-Middleweight as he defends his WBO International and USWBC Super-Middleweight titles against Manuel Gallegos at Cintermex in Monterrey, Mexico tonight, live worldwide on DAZN.

Pacheco (18-0 15 KOs) is knocking on the door of the big names in the division and if he shines against tonight in his second consecutive headline bout against Mexican Gallegos (19-1-1 16 KOs) and is looking to keep his seemingly unstoppable momentum going with another great performance tonight.

The 22 year old was elevated to headline status in his last outing in Liverpool, England and took that spotlight chance by the scruff of the neck when he destroyed Jack Cullen in March with a destructive fourth round KO, and should he be victorious tonight, Pacheco could headline for a third time in a third different country, but this time on his home patch in Los Angeles.

Pacheco will arrive earlier to the arena than most headliners would do tonight, but that’s so he can be ringside when his younger Heavyweight brother Federico fights for the fourth time in the paid ranks to kick-off the card live on DAZN. Diego and Federico train alongside each other with David Benavidez Sr in Seattle, with one of the very best in the Super-Middleweight division, David Benavidez, there for Pacheco to learn from.

Benavidez is one of many top contenders lining up to take on Super-Middleweight king Canelo Alvarez, along with one of Pacheco’s Matchroom stablemates, Edgar Berlanga. The Puerto Rican star made his Matchroom debut at the end of June against Jason Quigley at a sold-out Theater at Madison Square Garden, and punctuated a wide points win by putting the Irishman down twice in the final round.

Pacheco believes he is already above Berlanga’s level and would love the chance to prove that but is focused on the job at hand; namely, putting on another great display in another step-up night.

“It means a lot to headline here,” said Pacheco. “I boxed here a couple of times as an amateur and had good wins, so to be back here to defend my titles it’s a big blessing. I’m very focused, I’m 22, I’m getting older and wiser and I’m super happy with the way everything is going with my career. I have my feet on the ground and I’m ready for whatever comes tonight.

“I knew one day I would come back to Mexico and headline. I didn’t know that it would be Monterrey and I didn’t expect my brother to be on the card with me. But everything happens for a reason, we’re on the right track and we’ve been training super hard. My brother and I dreamt about moments like this and we’re just happy that it’s all falling into place. 

“I know Gallegos is a good fighter, he’s an experienced, tough Mexican fighter. He’s durable, never been stopped, never been put down, so I am excited to be stepping up against guys like this. I’ve been showcasing my skills and power against a lot of opponents, but to do it against a guy like him will be fun and hopefully everyone recognizes that he’s a good opponent once I look good against him. I’ll box this guy, use my skills against him and get him frustrated, and then once I find those openings, I’ll hit him with my hardest shots and I think he won’t be able to take them. I’m not predicting any rounds, but I think I will get him out of there.

“Federico and I are always pushing each other in camp and we both know that it’s important that we show out and look good. That’s what we have been preparing for and it’s time to shine tonight.

“It’s great to be around great fighters, not just David but his brother, and a lot of other great fighters in the gym. We all learn from each other, and Benavidez Sr really works all of us hard every day, and I’m grateful for all the tips and support from David and the rest of the guys in there.

“It’s not just sparring with David that improves me, every single day just being in there with him and the rest of the team I am getting better. He’s always watching and looking to help us improve, and it means a lot that he watches the rest of us after he’s trained and is willing to help us get better.

“I got to headline the night out of nowhere, we found out about a week before the fight. I was excited, it didn’t change anything, I still went in there to look good and dominate, do my thing. It motivated me with all eyes on me and that’s the same tonight.

“Jason looked good for a lot of the fight. It was a good fight; it went the way I thought it would do. Edgar is a good fighter, but I think that I am levels ahead of him, I’ll show that tonight and in the big nights to come. I welcome any fighter in the top of the 168lb division to fight me, I want to come out as the best. I am only 22 so I have time on my side to fight all these names, so I tell Eddie Hearn – line them up however you want, I’ll be ready.”

Live worldwide on DAZN from 6pm CST

4 x 3 mins Heavyweight contest

Federico Pacheco Jr. (254lbs) vs.   Oscar Heredia (252lbs) 
Los Angeles, California                      Monterrey, Mexico

Followed by

8 x 3 mins Flyweight contest

Neider Valdez (108lbs)         vs.     Isaias Ortiz (109lbs)
Monterrey, Mexico                           Mexico City, Mexico

Followed by

10 x 3 mins Bantamweight contest 

Jonathan Rodriguez (115lbs) vs.    Israel Gonzalez (115lbs)
San Luis Potosi, Mexico                     Los Cabos, Mexico

Followed by

10 x 3 mins Lightweight contest

Eduardo Hernandez (137lbs)         vs.     Hector Garcia (137lbs)
Mexico City, Mexico                                    Tijuana, Mexico

Followed by

10 x 3 mins WBO International and USWBC Super-Middleweight titles

Diego Pacheco (168lbs)        vs.     Manuel Gallegos (168lbs)
Los Angeles, California                     Los Mochis, Mexico

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. – July 7, 2023 – Unbeaten prospects will square off in a trio of matchups highlighting the SHOWTIME BOXING COUNTDOWN live streaming presentation this Saturday, July 8 from Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J. in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Action live on the SHOWTIME SPORTS YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page will begin at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT and is topped by 2020 Dominican Olympian Euri Cedeño taking on fellow unbeaten William Townsel in an eight-round middleweight affair. The lineup will also see a rematch of unbeaten heavyweights as Steven Torres and James Evans look to settle the score after their January 2022 split-draw and super welterweights Dwyke Flemmings Jr. and Henry Rivera compete in a four-round battle.

The live stream is hosted by award-winning MORNING KOMBAT live digital talk show hosts Luke Thomas and Brian Campbell, as well as by Stephen Jackson, the former NBA champion and co-host of the popular show ALL THE SMOKE^®, who will all be ringside for the three bouts.

These fights precede a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® tripleheader headlined by undefeated rising star Jaron “Boots” Ennis defending his Interim IBF Welterweight Title against all-action contender Roiman Villa in a telecast that starts at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.com. The Ennis vs. Villa fight is promoted in association with D&D Boxing and Sampson Boxing.

The 23-year-old Cedeño (4-0, 4 KOs) will make his U.S. debut on July 8, having stopped all four of his opponents since turning pro in October 2022. Representing La Romana, Dominican Republic, Cedeño comes from a boxing family as both his younger brother and sister box, with the 2020 Olympian Euri leading the way in the pro ranks. He will be opposed by the 28-year-old Townsel (5-0, 4 KOs), who enters this bout having scored two knockouts so far in 2023. Originally from Pine Bluff, Arkansas, Townsel now resides in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

Fighting out of Reading, Pennsylvania, Torres (5-0-1, 5 KOs) burst onto the pro scene in December 2019 and went on to stop his first five opponents in two rounds or less. The 25-year-old first went toe-to-toe with Evans (6-0-1, 6 KOs) on New Year’s Day 2022, as the two supersized heavyweights fought to a split draw. A 30-year-old from Toledo, Ohio, Evans has added stoppage wins over Geovany Bruzon and Marcus Maulding since their 2022 clash.

The 19-year-old Flemmings (3-0, 3 KOs) turned pro in December 2021 and has earned three-straight stoppages heading into Saturday night. A native of Paterson, New Jersey, Flemmings most recently stopped Assuan Jones Chatman in the first round of their September 2022 matchup. He will be opposed by the 33-year-old Rivera (2-0, 1 KO), who fights out of Las Vegas and is originally from Oakland, California. Rivera’s last outing saw him earn a TKO over Tyre Rivera in April 2023.

The non-televised lineup will see super lightweight prospect Ismail Muhammad (1-0, 1 KO) in a four-round clash against Texas’ Parker Bruno (0-1).

#         #         #

ABOUT ENNIS VS. VILLA

Ennis vs. Villa will see undefeated rising star Jaron “Boots” Ennis defend his Interim IBF Welterweight Title against all-action contender Roiman Villa headlining action live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, July 8 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J.. 

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast begins at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT and will also feature rising Cuban sensation Yoelvis Gómez taking on middleweight contender Marquis Taylor in the 10-round co-main event, plus hard-hitting lightweight knockout artist Edwin De Los Santos faces former amateur superstar Joseph Adorno in the explosive 10-round telecast opener.

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