VITALY BIGDASH RETAINS ONE MIDDLEWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP WITH VICTORY OVER AUNG LA N SANG

14 January 2017 – Jakarta, Indonesia: The largest sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship™ (ONE), returned to the Jakarta Convention Center for another evening of world-class mixed martial arts (MMA) action. ONE: QUEST FOR POWER set the tone for what will be an amazing 2017 for ONE Championship with a series of compelling bouts featuring the absolute best in local and international MMA talent. In the main event, ONE Middleweight World Champion Vitaly Bigdash retained his title, defeating top contender “The Burmese Python” Aung La N Sang by unanimous decision after five rounds.

Visit the official ONE: QUEST FOR POWER photo gallery by clicking: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ivh34n9pza3q94o/AADwuMwRg-gnDecd5AIBoQyTa?dl=0

In the main event of the evening, ONE Middleweight World Champion Vitaly Bigdash of Rostov-on-Don, Russia impressed with a great show of strength in a dominant performance over “The Burmese Python” Aung La N Sang of Myanmar. Throughout the bout, Bigdash kept N Sang at bay with his sharp combinations, while on the mat he connected with multiple elbows. After five rounds of action, it was a clear win for Bigdash who met very little resistance in outlasting the durable N Sang to remain undefeated, retaining his ONE Middleweight World Championship.

In the co-main event of the evening, 27-year-old Martin “The Situ-Asian” Nguyen of Sydney, Australia authored one of the most spectacular finishes of the evening, stopping Japanese MMA veteran Kazunori Yokota with strikes to win by technical knockout just past the midway point of the first round. Yokota stalked Nguyen, looking to throw combinations but Nguyen timed Yokota with an overhand right that dropped him to the canvas. From there, Nguyen jumped on his foe and rained down punches from the top to earn the stoppage victory.

Lightweight contenders Vincent “MagniVincent” Latoel and Vaughn “The Spawn” Donayre put on an exciting show for fans in attendance, tagging each other with intense combinations for the majority of the three-round lightweight contest. On the mat, Donayre showcased his grappling skills, threatening with various submissions off his back. Latoel however was more consistent throughout and scored points with his takedowns and cage control. All three judges saw the bout in favor of Latoel to win by unanimous decision.

The highly-anticipated lightweight showdown between Georgi Stoyanov of Bulgaria and Saygid Guseyn Arslanaliev of Russia ended on an unfortunate note, as the bout resulted in a No Contest ruling. Although Arslanaliev swarmed Stoyanov from the beginning of the bout and completely outclassed the Bulgarian, an ill-advised technical ground kick landed for Arslanaliev and Stoyanov was unable to continue.

Dutch featherweight standout based in Jakarta, Anthony “The Archangel” Engelen, put on a masterful performance, stopping Malaysian fight veteran A.J. “Pyro” Lias Mansor in under two minutes in the first round of a scheduled three-round bout. Engelen pressed Mansor up against the cage fence with a combination before a beautiful right hand felled Mansor, earning Engelen one of the most spectacular knockouts of his career.

Fans were treated to an action-packed clash of colossal light heavyweights as Igor Subora of the Ukraine and Sherif Mohamed of Egypt pushed each other to the limit in a tremendous three-round show of determination from both fighters. Subora effectively used his reach advantage to keep the smaller, stockier Mohamed at bay with his boxing throughout the bout. In the third round, both fighters fought through sheer exhaustion to make it to the final bell as Subora did just enough to outlast Mohamed to earn the unanimous decision.

Local martial arts hero from Jakarta, “The Terminator” Sunoto, brought the crowd to its feet with a riveting performance to defeat Cambodia’s Chan Heng by technical knockout just a little under three minutes into the first round. Sunoto wasted no time in taking the fight directly to Heng, challenging the Khun Khmer practitioner to a striking showdown at the center of the ONE Championship cage. Sunoto however, proved too much for the Cambodian after he gained mount and unleashed the ground-and-pound.

Unbeaten Indonesian flyweight prospect Stefer Rahardian defeated Jakarta-based Liberian fighter Jerome S. Paye via unanimous decision in the second preliminary bout of the evening. Rahardian showcased tremendous cage-control for the majority of the fight, smothering Paye with a consistent attack that left the Liberian stifled throughout the contest. The 30-year-old Rahardian left very little openings for Paye who just couldn’t get his offense going. In the end, Rahardian had just enough in the tank to complete a comprehensive three-round performance, earning the nod on all three judges’ scorecards.

Strawweights Rene Catalan of the Philippines and Adrian Matheis of Indonesia kicked off ONE: QUEST FOR POWER with a spirited display of mixed martial arts action, on a bustling Saturday night in Jakarta. After a dominant first round from Catalan, one that saw the Filipino attempt various finishes, the end came swiftly in the second when Catalan was able to execute an armbar to earn the submission victory.

Official results for ONE: QUEST FOR POWER
ONE Middleweight World Championship bout: Vitaly Bigdash defeats Aung La N Sang by Unanimous Decision (UD) after five rounds
Featherweight bout: Martin Nguyen defeats Kazunori Yokota by TKO (Strikes) at 3:36 minutes of round 1
Lightweight bout: Vincent Latoel defeats Vaughn Donayre by Unanimous Decision (UD) after three rounds
Lightweight bout: Georgi Stoyanov, Saygid Guseyn Arslanaliev (No Contest)
Featherweight bout: Anthony Engelen defeats AJ Lias Mansor by Knockout (KO) at 1:42 minutes of round 1
Light Heavyweight bout: Igor Subora defeats Sherif Mohamed by Unanimous Decision (UD) after three rounds
Bantamweight bout: Sunoto defeats Chan Heng by TKO (Strikes) at 2:30 minutes of round 1
Flyweight bout: Stefer Rahardian defeats Jerome S. Paye by Unanimous Decision (UD) after three rounds
Strawweight bout: Rene Catalan defeats Adrian Matheis by Submission (Armbar) at 2:08 minutes of round 2

In case you missed the action log on to www.onefc.com/livestream for the full replay of the fights at only US $9.99.

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

About ONE Championship™
ONE Championship is the largest sports media property in Asian history. Headquartered in Singapore, the world’s most exciting mixed martial arts organization hosts the largest sports entertainment events across Asia featuring the best Asian mixed martial artists and world champions, all signed to exclusive contracts, on the largest media broadcast in Asia. ONE Championship is broadcast to over 1 billion viewers across 118+ countries around the world with some of the largest global broadcasters, including FOX Sports, Setanta, MNC, Astro, Thairath TV, ABS-CBN, TV5, MYTV, HTV, Esporte Interativo and more.




Video: Badou Jack Aims To Unify Division | Jan. 14 on SHOWTIME




LEANDRO HIGO WINS THE INAUGURAL BANTAMWEIGHT TITLE ON ‘AXS TV FIGHTS: LEGACY FIGHTING ALLIANCE 1’

Los Angeles – Jan. 13, 2017 – AXS TV FIGHTS debuted the first ever event from LEGACY FIGHTING ALLIANCE (LFA), a merger between Resurrection Fighting Alliance and Legacy Fighting Championship, tonight to kick off its 2017 line-up which boasts a TV industry leading 45 scheduled events. LFA’s first title unification bout headlined the main card as RFA bantamweight champ Leandro Higo (17-2) out-punched Legacy champ Steven Peterson (14-5) to win the promotion’s inaugural bantamweight title by decision.

Other highlights from tonight’s card include:

In the co-main event, featherweight fighter Damon Jackson (11-1-1) caught Charles Cheeks III (11-6) in a rear-naked choke to win by submission.

Eli Tamez (10-0) returned from a two year layoff to defeat Ulyses Aguila (6-2) by split decision.

Strawweight Cynthia Calvillo (3-0) showed her striking prowess against Montana Stewart (6-4), later winning by TKO in the third round.

Cameron Miller (3-0) made quick work of Armando Servin (3-1) landing a powerful knockdown punch followed by a rear-naked choke finish only 29 seconds into the fight.

Full highlights from AXS TV FIGHTS: LFA 1 are available here: http://bit.ly/LFA1_Highlights

Tonight’s event was presented by AXS TV FIGHTS commentators Pat Miletich and “The Voice” Michael Schiavello, along with cageside reporter Ron Kruck, live from The Bomb Factor in Dallas.

Here are the official results from LFA 1

Main Event – Inaugural Bantamweight Title Fight – Leandro Higo (17-2) vs. Steven Peterson (14-5) by unanimous decision (50-45, 50-45, 50-45).

Co-Main Event – Featherweight Fight – Damon Jackson (11-1-1) defeated Charles Cheeks III (11-6) by submission (rear-naked choke) at 1:24in round two.

Bantamweight Fight – Eli Tamez (10-0) defeated Ulyses Aguila (6-2) by split decision (30-27, 29-28, 30-27).

Strawweight Fight – Cynthia Calvillo (3-0) defeated Montana Stewart (6-4) by TKO (punches) at 2:54 in round three.

Catchweight Fight (130 pounds) – Cameron Miller (3-0) defeated Oscar Ramirez (3-1) via technical submission (rear-naked choke) at 0:29 in round one.

Welterweight Fight – Sean Holden (5-2) defeated Armando Servin (4-5) by split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28).

Featherweight Fight – Rob Butler (2-0) defeated Jessie Vasquez (2-2) by submission (neck crank) at 4:36 in round one.

ABOUT AXS TV FIGHTS

AXS TV Fights presents more LIVE mixed martial arts and kickboxing events than any other television network with 45 scheduled LIVE world-class fight cards in 2017. “The Voice” Michael Schiavello and UFC Hall of Famer Pat Miletich call all the action and Ron Kruck reports from cageside as champions, challengers, and top prospects take center stage every Friday night at 10pE/7pP. AXS TV Fights can be found online, on Facebook and onTwitter. AXS TV is widely distributed in the U.S. via AT&T U-verse, Charter, Comcast/Xfinity, DIRECTV, DISH, Sling TV, Suddenlink, Verizon FiOS, and other cable, satellite, telco and streaming providers. The network is also carried in Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean.




FOLLOW LARA – FOREMAN LIVE

Follow all the action as Erislandy Lara defends the WBA Super Welterweight title against Yuri Foreman.  The action kicks off at 9 PM ET / 6 PM PT with a super middleweight clash between former world champion Anthony Dirrell battling Norbert Nemespati.

THE PAGE WILL UPDATE AUTOMATICALLY…NO BROWSER REFRESH NEEDED

12 ROUNDS–WBA SUPER WELTERWEIGHT TITLE–ERISLANDY LARA (23-2-2, 13 KO’S) VS YURI FOREMAN (34-2, 10 KO’S)
ROUND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 TOTAL
 LARA*  10  10 10   KO                  30
 FOREMAN  9  9 8                     26

Round 1: Lara lands a straight left

Round 2 Good straight left from Lara

Round 3 Double jab from Lara..LARA SCORES A KNOCKDOWN

ROUND 4 LARA LANDS A HUGE UPPERCUT, DOWN GOES FOREMAN…HE CANT GET UP IS COUNTED OUT

 10-ROUNDS-SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS–ANTHONY DIRRELL (29-1-1, 23 KO’S) VS NORBERT NEMESPATI (24-4, 17 KO’s)
ROUND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 TOTAL
 Dirrell*  10 10  10 10   10 10  TKO            60
 Nemespati  9  9  9  9  9  9              54

Round 1 Left hook from Dirrell…

Round 2 Dirrell coming forward..Combination from Nemespati..Couple big shots from Dirrell..Dirrell landing on the ropes

Round 3 Dirrell has a bloody nose..Body shot from Dirrell..another one

Round 4 Jab-Hook combination…Big right from Dirrell…Dirrell taking charge

Round 5 Dirrell lands a leaping left

Round 6 Good right from Dirrell…and another….FIGHT STOPPED BY NEMESPATI’S CORNER




WFC KICKS OFF 2017 WITH EXPLOSIVE BATON ROUGE MATCHUPS AT WFC 63, MMA AT THE BELLE

Baton Rouge, Louisiana – January 13, 2017 – World Fighting Championship returns to the Belle of Baton Rouge Saturday, January 21st with WFC 63, the first of 22 events already on the books for the United States’ premier cross-over promotion. The main and co-main events both feature tough, local matchups between some of Louisiana’s highest level MMA talent. In the main event, Thomas Webb (11-3) takes on Robert Dunn (8-4), and in the co-main event, Joshua Davila (6-5) faces JD Domengeaux (9-3).

“This fight was going to happen eventually,” said Webb of the matchup with Dunn. “It was a matter of when, and I’m ready. He’s coming into the cage with an ‘always coming forward, never retreat’ attitude. I know it’s going to be a good fight.” Webb knows a little something about not retreating, thanks to his thirteen years of service in the Army National Guard. The 33 year old, who is now the head coach at UFC Gym in Baton Rouge, served the city of New Orleans post-Katrina, and in Haiti after the devastating earthquake there in 2010. “We did search and rescue, clearing of debris, and police patrol,” the fighter said of his year stay in New Orleans.

Another year was spent in Afghanistan, building a base for incoming troops. Webb came away from the National Guard and the adversity he faced during his service with a perspective that influences his training and fighting. “I don’t take anything for granted. I value my time here on Earth, and the time of my sparring partners and coaches. I make every moment count. In Haiti you’d walk out and see thousands of tents, as far as you could see. There were six or seven people in each tent, and they’d come out every morning, walk a mile to get water, and do it with a smile on their faces.”

His opponent, Robert “Get It” Dunn was a late replacement, and WFC Founder and Promoter Matt McGovern. “We have two of the top 155 pound in the South from two of the biggest gyms in the area. This is a great fight for the area.” Dunn trains at Gracie United Baton Rouge.
Also on the card, in the co-main event, Joshua Davilla, the owner of Gracie United, faces JD Domengeaux in a battle at welterweight. It is the first fight in his home state of Louisiana for Domengeaux since 2013. “I want to leave a legacy,” said Domengeaux. “There’s no guarantee in this sport. It’s the toughest sport on the planet.”

Rounding out the professional portion of the card, Roman Pizzolato (8-8) faces Texas’ Daniel Miller (4-4). In amateur action, Baton Rouge favorite Shanelle Bouxdreaux (0-1) faces Arizona’s Shyanne Mitchell (0-1). Local female MMA fighter Tori King (0-1) steps up against Texas’ Takera McGilbra (1-0). 29-year old King splits her time between fighting, working as a professional welder, and attending school. “I think people don’t take it seriously,” said King of women in MMA. “Ronda Rousey paved the way for women. It’s finally getting recognition.”

The amateur portion of the card also includes Carlton Lofton (8-8) vs. Nicko Commissiong (4-0), George Frange (3-0) vs. Maxx Smith (6-0), Blayze Olano (1-1) vs. Clint Bozeman (Debut), Jimmy Young (1-1) vs. David Jackson (6-0), Tim Bruce (0-1) vs. Kenry Mire (Debut), Brandon Laughlin (1-0) vs. Mark Harrison (0-1), Romalice Thomason (1-1) vs. Ronnie Turpin (Debut), and Chase McNeal (3-1) vs. William Leeds (3-4).
“2017 will be a year of aggressive growth for WFC,” said Promoter Matt McGovern. “Our next two events are in Nevada, and we have events on the books in Washington, Pennsylvania and here in Baton Rouge.”

Tickets for WFC 63 begin at $27.50 and are available at www.wfcfights.com. Doors open at 6:00, and first bell is at 7:00 p.m.




D and D Management signs amateur star Dylan Price

PHILADELPHIA (JANUARY 13, 2017)–D and D Management Team LLC is proud to announce the signing of prized amateur Dylan “The Real Dyl” Price to a management contract.

Price, 18 years old of Philadelphia will compete in the super flyweight division.

Price had an outstanding amateur career record of 112-12, and finished as the number-1 ranked fighter in the United States and number-3 in the world.

“I Would like to thank Doc Nowicki and my dad Dave Price for believing in me, and for providing for me even as an amateur. They were always there with the financial support needed so that I was always able to concentrate on the task at hand. I am still a senior in high school, and I am still balancing my school workload with my boxing load, but I always enjoy challenges so it works out,” stated Dylan Price.

“I am very happy to sign Dylan (also known as Lil Dave). I have been following him through his amateur career, and I was very proud when he won the bronze medal at the world amateur championship in Russia. We look forward to him beginning his professional career in February and anticipate him having 5-6 fights in 2017,” said Doc Nowicki, manager of Dylan Price.

Price will make his professional debut on February 4th in Wilson, North Carolina, and he will make his hometown debut on March 31st at the 2300 Arena.




CINCO DE MAYO WEEKEND SHOWDOWN: CANELO ÁLVAREZ TO BATTLE JULIO CÉSAR CHÁVEZ, JR. IN 12-ROUND MEGA-FIGHT SATURDAY, MAY 6


LOS ANGELES (Jan. 13, 2017) – In a historic showdown that will rival the biggest fights in the history of Mexico’s proud boxing lineage, two-division world champion and Pay-Per-View star Canelo Álvarez (48-1-1, 34 KOs) will take on former WBC World Middleweight Champion Julio César Chávez, Jr. (50-2-1, 32 KOs) on Cinco de Mayo weekend, Saturday, May 6 in a 12-round battle to be contested at a maximum 164.5 pounds. The event will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View®.

Details regarding venue and an international press tour will be announced soon.

“I’m excited to announce my fight against Julio César Chávez, Jr. and confirm that I will be prepared, like I’ve been throughout my career, to give a great fight,” said two-division World Champion Canelo Álvarez. “I want to remind you that when two Mexican fighters face-off, a spectacular show is guaranteed, and I can assure you that May 6 will be no exception especially during the Cinco de Mayo festivities.”

“Cinco de Mayo and Mexican Independence Day in September are important dates for us Mexicans, and I’m expecting a great night for boxing and the whole world,” Canelo continued. “Don’t miss this special event live on HBO Pay-Per-View®. We’ll soon be announcing where the fight will be held.”

“I dedicate this fight to Mexico,” said Julio César Chávez, Jr. “I’m going to win, but my country will too because this is the fight that boxing needs.”

Álvarez was last seen in the ring Sept. 17, 2016, knocking out the previously undefeated WBO junior middleweight champion Liam Smith in front of more than 51,000 fans in Dallas, Texas. Chávez was last in action Dec. 10, 2016, when he secured a unanimous decision victory over highly regarded German fighter Dominik Britsch in Monterrey, Mexico.

“Boxing has been searching for a fight to draw the casual fan back to our sport, and Canelo versus Chávez, Jr. is just that fight,” said Oscar De La Hoya, CEO and Chairman of Golden Boy Promotions. “Canelo, the biggest star boxing, will take on not only a former world champion in Julio César Chávez, Jr., but the son of the biggest star in the history of boxing in Mexico. Add in 98 victories and 66 knockouts between these two superstars along with a Cinco de Mayo fight date, and you have a can’t-miss battle.”

“Canelo vs. Julio César Chávez, Jr. is one of the premier and most compelling matchups in boxing today,” said Tony Walker, Vice President of HBO Sports. “May 6 has all the makings of an extraordinary event as these two Mexican warriors will lay it all on the line to show who is the best on Cinco de Mayo weekend. It will be an evening that every fight fan will want to experience live on HBO Pay-Per-View®.”

Canelo vs. Chávez, Jr. is a 12-round fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions and sponsored by Tecate, BORN BOLD. The event takes place on Saturday, May 6 and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View® beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

For more information, visitwww.goldenboypromotions.com andwww.hbo.com/boxing; follow on Twitter @Canelo, @jcchavezjr1, @GoldenBoyBoxing, @OscarDeLaHoya, @hboboxing; become a fan on Facebookby searching @SaulCaneloAlvarez, @JCChavezJr, @GoldenBoyBoxing, and follow on Instagram @Canelo, @JCChavezJr, @GoldenBoyBoxing and @OscarDeLaHoya; and follow the conversation using #CaneloChavezJr.




WELSH WIZARD HARRIS CHALLENGES ESSOMBA FOR THE COMMONWEALTH FLYWEIGHT TITLE AT YORK HALL

Fast-rising Swansea talent Jay Harris has a chance to bag his first title in just his tenth fight when he challenges Ryhope’s Thomas Essomba for the Commonwealth Flyweight Championship at Bethnal Green’s York Hall on Saturday 24th February, live and exclusive on BoxNation.

Harris, 9-0 6 KO’s, has stormed his way to a domestic title shot after racking up six consecutive knockout wins in impressive fashion. Determined to follow in the footsteps of his father Peter, who owned the Lord Lonsdale Featherweight belt in 1988, Harris is ready to seize his opportunity.

“To be fighting for a title in just my tenth fight is huge for me and I’m determined to become the Commonwealth Champion on February 24th,” said Harris. “I’ve always said to Gary (Lockett) if an opportunity for a title came up at Flyweight I’d go for it, it’s only an extra pound that I’ve got to get off so it doesn’t make any difference to me.

“I’ve seen a few videos of Thomas and he looks strong and tough. He’s the Champion so he must have something about him but that belt is coming back to Swansea with me. Six knockout wins on the bounce gives you a lot of confidence.

“I’ve been catching my opponents with the right shots and they’ve been going over. I’m not going to take this fight lightly as I know he’s going to be dangerous but the plan is to go in there and do what I do best.”

Chief-support on the card sees Chingford’s Boy Jones Jnr make the first defence of his Southern Area Super-Featherweight strap. Baby-faced Boy has an exciting year ahead of him, having already romped to eleven wins at the tender age of 20. The Dom Negus and Lenny Butcher-trained character outpointed Martin Hill last time out in front of a packed-out Brentwood Centre.

Horchurch Super-Middleweight Harley Benn, son of former two-weight World Champion and British boxing icon Nigel Benn, makes his highly-anticipated pro debut 29 years after his father fought at the famous venue for the first time as a pro.

New Maldon’s Lerrone Richards, a super-skilled and frighteningly strong southpaw from Alan Smith’s iBox Gym in Bromley, is loving life back under the lights and looking to make up for lost time in 2017. Richard’s fights over six after impressively stopping Gordan Glisic in his big comeback fight last October.

Sikh warrior Sanjeev Singh Sahota aims to make it six wins undefeated when he fights in his first six round Super-Lightweight contest. ‘SSS’ enjoyed a memorable 2016, racing to five wins in his first year as a professional and fighting on the undercard of Indian superstar Vijender Singh’s WBO Inter-Continental showdown out in New Delhi.

Power-punching Sidcup Super-Featherweight D.P. Carr looks to extend his unbeaten record to 7-0 when he fights over six. Known as ‘The Cannon’, Carr is certainly living up to his nickname with four big knockouts to date.

Hugely-popular Chelmsford Super-Middleweight Billy ‘The Bomb’ Long returns to the ring after his devastating first round blitz of Dean Gillen last time out at the Brentwood Centre. South Ockendon Super-Lightweight Charlie Driscoll looks to build on his perfect start to life in the paid ranks when he takes on Cardiff’s Rhys Saunders.

Welling Super-Featherweight Archie Sharp has won all six of his bouts since turning professional in 2015 and is eyeing his first domestic title at the back end of 2017. York Hall has always been happy hunting ground for the ‘Sharpshooter’

Completing a stacked card are debutants Zak Chelli and Naylor Ball. Both recently signed professional terms with Frank Warren and are eager to impress on their debuts at the home of boxing.

Fulham’s Chelli, a double England elite Middleweight Champion, will campaign at Super-Middleweight in the paid ranks and Pinewood’s Ball, a National Youth Champion and British Youth silver medallist, kicks-off his pro career in a four round Heavyweight contest.

Tickets priced £40 and £60 are available from Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster.co.uk and 0844 844 0444.

BoxNation, the Channel of Champions, will televise this fight on Sky (SD Ch.437 and HD Ch.490), Freeview (Ch.255), Virgin (Ch.546), TalkTalk (Ch.415), online at watch.boxnation.com and via apps (iOS, Android, Amazon).

Go to www.boxnation.com to see how you can watch this fight and more live!

Applications for media and photographer accreditation must be submitted via the event page at www.frankwarren.com no later than 5pm on Friday February 17th. No applications received after this time will be considered under any circumstances. Confirmations will be sent out ASAP after that date.




Box Fan Expo to be present at the Jack vs DeGale world title unification fight from the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York

Las Vegas (January 13, 2017) – The Popular Box Fan Expo will have a booth at Saturday nights’ much anticipated super middleweight world title unification bout between Badou Jack and James DeGale from the Barclays Center. The Jack vs Degale fight is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment. Box Fan Expo will have an opportunity to greet boxing fans and pass out info on next upcoming Expo.

The booth will be located at the Main Concourse at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. We invite Boxing Fans and industry people to stop by and say hello.

Box Fan Expo has been a huge success with fans and boxing industry people. Many boxing stars have attended the last two Expo’s such as Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Tommy Hearns, Roy Jones Jr., Sergio Martinez, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Tim Bradley, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Shawn Porter, Fernando Vargas, Zab Judah, James Toney, Vinny Pazienza, Mikey Garcia , Mia St.Johns, Leo Santa Cruz, Badou Jack, Terry Norris , Riddick Bowe , Earnie Shavers, Leon Spinks and many more…The third annual Box Fan Expo will return and take place in Las Vegas on May 6th, 2017 (Cinco De Mayo weekend) at the Las Vegas Convention Center, from 10a.m to 5pm.

Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event.

Tickets for the Box Fan Expo can be purchased at: https://boxfanexpo.eventbrite.com/

The event allows fans to Meet and Greet Boxing Superstars of today, current and former world champions, Legends of the sport and other boxing Celebrities at their booth. On Site, fans will experience different activities from Autograph Sessions, Photo Sessions, FaceOff with your favorite boxers, as well as a chance to purchase merchandise and memorabilia from their booth, plus so much more… you won’t want to miss this must-attend Expo!Box Fan Expo will also feature top boxing organizations, promoters, ring card girls, famous trainers and commentators as well as boxing gear companies “ALL UNDER ONE ROOF”.

Throughout the next several months leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo.

And for anyone in the Boxing industry or other Exhibitors (non-industry), who would like to be involved and reserve a Booth, contact Box Fan Expo:

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

For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com

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

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

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




TICKETS NOW ON SALE FOR JAMIE CONLAN BELFAST BOXING BONANZA

Tickets for Frank Warren’s Championship Boxing show at the Belfast Waterfront on Saturday 18th February are now on sale.

Commonwealth Super-Flyweight Champion Jamie Conlan headlines the evening’s boxing as he continues his quest for world honours in 2017. Boasting a flawless record of 18 wins, 11 via knockout, Belfast’s undefeated hero is within touching distance of achieving his lifelong ambition of winning a world title and victory on February 18th will take the all-action warrior a huge step closer to his dream.

Irish amateur legend Paddy Barnes is promising to put on another show when he makes his second appearance as a professional. Belfast’s two-time Olympic medallist received an incredible reception on his pro debut and is delighted to be fighting back in his home city.

Plenty of Irish pride is at stake when Dublin’s Declan ‘Pretty Boy’ Geraghty takes on Belfast’s James ‘The Assassin’ Tennyson for the Irish Super-Featherweight title in what promises to be a fight of the night contender.

Local Light-Heavyweight talent Steven Ward aims to improve his unbeaten record to 3-0 and Dublin Super-Lightweight Philip Sutcliffe Jnr is hot on the comeback trail after his all-out war with Chris Jenkins at the Titanic Exhibition Centre.

Further exciting additions to this unmissable evening of Championship Boxing will be announced soon!

Tickets priced £30, £40, £50, £60, £80, £100 & £150 VIP are available from waterfront.co.uk and +44 (0)28 9033 4455

BoxNation, the Channel of Champions, will televise this fight on Sky (SD Ch.437 and HD Ch.490), Freeview (Ch.255), Virgin (Ch.546), TalkTalk (Ch.415), online at watch.boxnation.com and via apps (iOS, Android, Amazon).

Go to www.boxnation.com to see how you can watch this fight and more live!

Applications for media and photographer accreditation must be submitted via the event page at www.frankwarren.com no later than 5pm on Friday February 10th. No applications received after this time will be considered under any circumstances. Confirmations will be sent out ASAP after that date.




AXS TV FIGHTS KICKS OFF THE NEW YEAR WITH LEGACY FIGHTING ALLIANCE’S INAUGURAL EVENT FRIDAY NIGHT

Los Angeles – Jan. 12, 2017 – AXS TV FIGHTS presents a historic night for mixed martial arts tomorrow as two of the sport’s leading promotions, Resurrection Fighting Alliance and Legacy Fighting Championship, officially become one with the inaugural Legacy Fighting Alliance (LFA) event. Broadcast live from The Bomb Factory in Dallas, AXS TV FIGHTS: LFA 1 also represents the network’s official time shift to an hour earlier, 9pE/6pP on Friday nights for its 45 scheduled events in 2017.

Following LFA 1’s weigh-in event today, the inaugural bantamweight title unification bout between RFA champion Leandro Higo (16-2) and Legacy FC champion Steven Peterson (14-4) is official as both fighters came in one pound under the limit for the title fight (135 pounds).

A highlight video of the weigh in event is available to embed via YouTube here: http://bit.ly/LFA1_WeighIn

In anticipation of tomorrow’s bantamweight unification fight, AXS TV FIGHTS looked back at the top 12 bantamweights to come from RFA and Legacy FC in this highlight video: http://bit.ly/AXSTV_Bantamweights

Also on YouTube, Peterson’s victorious title fight from Legacy FC 56 is AXS TV FIGHTS’ Fight of the Week: http://bit.ly/FOTW_Peterson

AXS TV FIGHTS commentators UFC Hall of Famer Pat Miletich and “The Voice” Michael Schiavello will call the action Friday night joined by cageside reporter Ron Kruck. Highlights from the night will be available on YouTube following the conclusion of the event.

The complete weigh-in results for AXS TV FIGHTS: LFA 1 are listed below, with each fighter’s record and official weight (in pounds) in parenthesis:

Main Event – Inaugural Bantamweight Title Fight – Leandro Higo (16-2, 134) vs. Steven Peterson (14-4, 134)

Co-Main Event – Featherweight Fight – Charles Cheeks III (11-5, 146.5) vs. Damon Jackson (10-1-1, 145)

Bantamweight Fight – Ulyses Aguila (6-1, 134) vs. Eli Tamez (9-0, 135)

Strawweight Fight – Cynthia Calvillo (2-0, 115) vs. Montana Stewart (6-3, 115)

Catchweight Fight (130 pounds) – Cameron Miller (2-0, 129) vs. Oscar Ramirez (3-0, 129)

Welterweight Fight – Armando Servin (4-4, 170) vs. Sean Holden (4-2, 168)

Featherweight Fight – Jessie Vasquez (2-1, 144) vs. Rob Butler (1-0, 145)




Badou Jack vs. James DeGale Final Press Conference Quote


BROOKLYN (January 12, 2017) – Super middleweight champions Badou Jack and James DeGale went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference before their world title unification showdown that headlines action this Saturday, January 14 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn and live on SHOWTIME.

Mayweather Promotions President Floyd Mayweather discussed the highly anticipated matchup featuring his fighter, Jack, who he has helped go from contender to the top of the 168-pound division.

Televised coverage begins at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT with junior lightweight world champion Jose Pedraza taking on undefeated contender Gervonta Davis, both of whom were on hand to speak to media at the Highline Ballroom in Manhattan.

Fighters from the televised undercard in attendance include super bantamweight world champion Amanda Serrano who defends her title against former two-division world champion Yazmin Rivas on SHOWTIME EXTREME. Also in attendance and opening up the telecast at 7 p.m. ET/PT are undefeated middleweights Ievgen Khytrov and Immanuwel Aleem and former title challenger Thomas Dulorme, whotakes on Brian Jones.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, start at $25. Tickets are available now and can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

Here is what the participants had to say Thursday:

BADOU JACK

“I’m just happy to be here and enjoying myself. I can’t wait until Saturday night to become a unified world champion.

“I’m fighting another world champion so I know that it’s not going to be easy. No matter what, we’re getting the job done.

“On fight night, none of the talk matters. You have to back it up in the ring. I’m just excited about the fight. I’m not focused on anything else other than that. I just need to win.

“I’ve been paying attention to DeGale for a while. You have to study your opponent a little bit for a fight this big. I’m ready to do anything it takes to win the fight.

“I promise the fans it’s going to be an exciting fight. Don’t blink, because this one could be over quickly. One punch can change the fight.

“This is champion versus champion. It’s finally here. I’m going to put on a great show and become the unified champion, no matter what it takes.

“To be at Barclays Center in Brooklyn is amazing. It’s a unification fight so it doesn’t get any bigger than that. It’s boxing and anything can happen, but on fight night I’m going to find a way to get the victory.

“This is the most people that have come over from Sweden to support me. It’s fun to have a lot of support back home. I can’t wait to come home as a unified champion.”

JAMES DEGALE

“Badou doesn’t do anything spectacularly, but he does everything well. I’ve got to be on top of my game to get the victory.

“I’m prepared if the fight goes 12-rounds or one round. My training has been perfect and it’s all going to come together on fight night.

“It’s a dream come true to fight at Barclays Center. A lot of U.K. fighters have fought in New York and I’m excited to be another. It’s going to be a special atmosphere on fight night.

“I’m expecting to have a lot of support on Saturday night. My profile in America has been growing and I think there will be support in the building. As a young kid you always wanted to come to America and become a star.

“Camp is done. It’s been a wicked camp. Everything has gone well. On Saturday night you’re going to see two world class fighters go to war. I have no doubt that I will be victorious and become the super middleweight unified world champion.

“This is the moment. The time is now and we’re ready. My whole team is primed for a great performance. I’m ready to prove that I’m one of the best fighters in the world.

“I can’t wait to return to the U.K. as a unified world champion. This is a great fight for boxing and it’s going to raise my appeal all over the world.

“I think our styles are going to gel to make a great fight. But don’t be surprised about anything you see in the ring. Enjoy the fight on Saturday night.”

FLOYD MAYWEATHER, President of Mayweather Promotions

“I want to thank everybody for coming out to support this event. The main thing I want to do is thank the fighters. Without the fighters going out there and racking up victories then we wouldn’t be here today for this explosive card.

“I commend James DeGale on his career. He’s done a great job. Badou Jack is very humble, appreciative and dedicated to his craft. These are unbelievable fighters. Saturday we’re looking for another great night of boxing. I think it will be one of the best cards of this year and this is one of the first.

“We have so many new faces at Mayweather Promotions, including Thomas Dulorme, and we look forward to taking him to the next level and back to world title contention.

“Everything takes time in the sport. Nothing happens overnight. We started Mayweather Promotions to give back and help fighters, not take from fighters. I’ve been there, so I know how these fighters feel. It takes a lot to reach this level.

“It takes a lot to get a card of this magnitude together. But I’m a man of my word. I told Gervonta Davis that he would be fighting on TV for a world title. It’s about producing, and that’s what we do at Mayweather Promotions.

“This sport is about the fighters growing and accomplishing their dreams. Helping these fighters is the greatest feeling. I’m always there to help my fighters.

“I’m so proud of Badou Jack. The first time I saw him in the gym, I was curious about him. If a guy is willing to fly overseas and take a bus to the boxing gym to accomplish his dreams, that’s what makes a great fighter.

“I gave a lot to the sport and boxing gave a lot to me. My career is over and it’s time for me to give back. I want to help them accomplish their goals.

“This is going to be a great card. Make sure you tune-in on Saturday night. Two great world title fights on SHOWTIME and another on SHOWTIME EXTREME.”

JOSE PEDRAZA

“I’m very proud and grateful to be here and represent Puerto Rico. I’m ready to get to the fight. I’ve been training for a very long time. It’s been a great camp with a lot of good sparring.

“Davis is a great fighter. He’s very young and talented. He has a good record. But I am the champion. I’m prepared for anything he might bring into the ring.

“I am excited to fight in front of the great Puerto Rican fans in Brooklyn. I think it will help inspire me to give a great performance and defend my belt.

“I’m prepared for everything. I prepare like a champion every day so that we can get into the ring and execute our game plan.

“It’s a great opportunity to share the card with a fellow Puerto Rican in Amanda Serrano and I think the fans are in for a treat. We’re going to bring the heart of the Puerto Ricans into the ring.

“I just hope that he came ready for the fight. Because if he’s not ready, I’m going for the knockout.”

GERVONTA DAVIS

“I’m in fight mode right now. It’s my first world title shot and I had a great training camp. I trained with top amateurs. I know Pedraza will come to fight because he’s a great champion.

“It was a big step up for me when I first signed with Floyd Mayweather. He took me under his wing and helped me do things I’ve never done before. It was new for me, coming from where I come from.

“I know that Pedraza is a great fighter and I have to be ready for anything. I believe in my abilities and the work my team in during training camp. It’s going to be exciting.

“I started fighting for the money, but I lost sight of what I really came to do. I’ve dedicated myself to this team and I’m going to bring my heart and my mind into the ring.

“I’m going to show the fans and everybody watching what I’m really about. I’m not Mike Tyson, I’m not Floyd Mayweather or Sugar Ray Leonard, I’m just Gervonta Davis. On January 14 I will become a world champion.”

AMANDA SERRANO

“It feels great to be in this position. It’s an honor. Having this spotlight is an amazing thing. I’m coming to show off. I’m not going to disappoint anybody, especially the women in this sport. I’m going to show that we need to be here.

“If you don’t know me, I’m a brawler and a big puncher. I go in there to get the job done. I love to brawl but if I have to box, I’ll box with anybody.

“I know I’m up against a tough Mexican fighter who is going to bring it. I didn’t study her too much. I let my trainers do the work to come up with a game plan. I train hard for every opponent and I train for every style.

“If Rivas stays true to her Mexican style and if I stay true to my Puerto Rican style, then there will be no need for the judges.

“Neither one of us are going to take a step back on fight night. We’re going right to the middle of the ring and we’re going to bring it. I don’t think we’ll even touch the ropes.

“It’s amazing to be fighting at home. It’s just a walk down the block for me. I’m excited to have my friends and supporters there to watch me. I hope everything comes down because it’s going to be a great night. It’s my second fight at Barclays Center and I hope to continue to fight here.”

YAZMIN RIVAS

“I’m very grateful to be fighting on SHOWTIME. I know that Amanda Serrano is going to be a very tough challenge, but I have a lot of experience.

“I am very experienced in the ring and I am going to use it to my full advantage. I’m going to work hard for every round until I’m a world champion.

“I’m here to give a great fight just like we always do when it’s Mexico vs. Puerto Rico.”

IEVGEN KHYTROV

“I’m very thankful for everyone who helped get me here. This is the first step on my way to a world title. I believe one day soon I will be champion.

“I’m going to throw a lot of punches and put on a show for the fans. Most fighters can’t handle me when I’m aggressive and coming forward.

“It’s an honor to be on a card like this and to be televised. I can’t wait to hear the fans and start fighting.”

IMMANUWEL ALEEM

“I feel really good going into this fight. I was born in New York and it’s my first time fighting in New York, so I’m very excited.

“I’m taking on a good opponent with good experience and a great resume. I’m just ready to keep doing what I’ve been doing. I worked hard for this and I’m going to show what I’m capable of in the ring.

THOMAS DULORME

“I’m feeling great and very happy to be here and fighting for Mayweather Promotions. New York is my city and I love fighting here with all the great Puerto Rican fans.

“I feel more motivated than ever. Signing with Mayweather Promotions is going to put me on a new run. I have more energy throughout training camp and I’m excited.

“I’m working little by little to improve and get better. I’m coming to be victorious and no one is going to stop me.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“Everyone needs to go out and buy tickets for a great night of boxing. This night will feature three world title bouts and it’s really a can’t miss night.
“SHOWTIME is leading the way when it comes to boxing. They put on the best fights by far. With the great women’s fight on this card and on SHOWTIME, I think this is the start of something great for women’s boxing.

“I can’t say enough about Gervonta Davis and Jose Pedraza. Pedraza is here to represent for Puerto Rico and Davis is here for Baltimore. It’s going to be a war. Both these men are coming to steal the show.

“Gervonta Davis is coming to knock your head off. He’s not leaving it up to the judges. If Pedraza has overlooked him, then he is in for a rude awakening. Davis has had a great camp and come Saturday night, he’s going to take that title.

“I know Badou and his team have a tremendous game plan in place. He’s worked hard to get to this moment and I believe on Saturday night he will be the unified super middleweight world champion.”

LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment

“This is as good as it gets for boxing. To start the year with the best fighting the best, there’s nothing better. Badou Jack and James DeGale are terrific fighters. Badou has had many obstacles in his career, but he just kept getting better and better until you couldn’t deny he was one of the best fighters in the world. James is highly decorated and has a great personality. Both these men have the right to call themselves the best.

“You can get into the arena Saturday night for $25 and that’s good the sport. We’re expecting a great crowd on Saturday night at Barclays Center. Barclays Center is dedicated to a boxing program and they are truly committed to the sport.

“I want to thank Floyd and Leonard for everything leading up to this fight. I met Floyd when he was very young and he always believed he was going to be the best and he lived up to his word. That’s what makes a champion a great champion and now he’s committed himself to being a boxing promoter. It’s been a pleasure to work with his whole staff and I believe they’re here to say.

“The off-television undercard features three fighters who are major ticket sellers and have developed big followings. Adam Kownacki, born in Brooklyn and from Poland. He’s a Golden Glove Champion and he’s moving himself into that contender territory. There will be lots of Polish flags on Saturday night. Julian Sosa is a 21-year-old prospect who also has a big following. Plus Ireland’s Noel Murphy, who will be making his second appearance at Barclays Center. This card is sensational.

“The first fight on SHOWTIME EXTREME features Ievgen Khytrov. He’s ranked number two by the WBC at middleweight He’s fighting a young man in Immanuwel Aleem who is also undefeated and fighting to become a contender. It’s a significant fight in the middleweight division.

“The main event on SHOWTIME EXTREME is historic. This is the first time that a women’s championship fight has been on national television in almost a decade. It’s a real move by SHOWTIME to make the point that women’s boxing has arrived and it’s time to start paying attention to the ladies.

“Jose Pedraza is the only reigning world champion from Puerto Rico. I think he’s one of the best fighters in the world. He has wins over a number of excellent fighters. This is a big opportunity for him. He’s getting an opportunity to be co-featured in New York City. With all the great Puerto Rica fans, he’s not going to let them down.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive VP & General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports

“These fights are not mismatches. This isn’t a showcase fight or a tune-up fight. That’s not what SHOWTIME, Mayweather Promotions or Lou DiBella is about. This is about the best fighting the best. High quality competitive fights These are the fights fans have been asking for.

“The main event on SHOWTIME EXTREME is a matchup that’s worthy of this stage. A pound-for-pound women’s champion against a tough former champion. Top to bottom this is a high quality card.

“In the past, the sport and its fans have been spoiled. Floyd Mayweather is retired now. He’s running his businesses and it’s time for the sport to find new stars. These are the kinds of fights that launch new stars. This is where stars are born. These are the fights that the sport needs. You might see a new star born on Saturday night.”

# # #
ABOUT JACK vs. DEGALE
Badou Jack vs. James DeGale, a 12-round super middleweight world unification fight, is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment and takes place this Saturday, January 14 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn and live on SHOWTIME. Opening the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT are junior lightweight world champion Jose Pedraza and unbeaten contender Gervonta Davis.

Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @BadouJack, @JamesDegale1, @Sniper_Pedraza, @Gervontaa, @SHOSports, @MayweatherPromo, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotionswww.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. This event is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.




ROY JONES JR. BOXING PROMOTIONS RETURNS TO PHOENIX, AZ

Phoenix (Jan. 11, 2017) – Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions Founder 10x World Champion, Roy Jones Jr. and CEO / Co-Founder, Keith Veltre proudly announce their return to Phoenix, AZ.

The stacked 6 fight lineup will showcase some of the most skilled boxers Phoenix has to offer and headlined by WBA-NABA Champion John “The Phenom” Vera in his toughest test to date.

Opening the night will be L.A. based fighter Ilya Usachev putting his undefeated record on the line against local standout Clifford Jordan. Then a battle of Arizona will go down as Tucson native Francisco Muro plans on punishing Phoenix born and raised Ryan Riddell.

Another local standout, Cesar Valenzuela (14-4-1) will take center stage in search of a coveted 15th win. Valenzuela has vaulted through the last two years riding a 6 fight winning streak. Now Cesar will standoff against Jose Silveria (17-20-0), a veteran of over 35 bouts and almost a year removed from the biggest win of his boxing life, a 6 round decision over Canadian contender Kevin Lavallee (14-1-1).

Then in the Co-Main event, another local will put his stellar winning streak on the line as Keenan Carbajal (12-2-1) whose had his hand raised 7 straight times will be in action. Carbajal will combat Gustavo Molina (23-13-0) and look to utlize his 5 inch height advantage to secure a monumental victory in front of his hometown crowd.

Finally, in the main event John “The Phenom” Vera (15-0-02) will look to steal the spotlight at The Celebrity Theater against Salin Larbi (20-6-2). “I’m excited about fighting in Phoenix, I get a chance to showcase my talent and tenacity to a whole new audience,” stated John Vera. Vera is coming off an explosive 2016, where he went 4-0-0 with 3 knockouts and won his WBA-NABA Super -Welterweight Title. “It feels good to be the main event: its just a reminder to myself of how far I’ve come and how much work I’ve put into getting to this point. Nothing is better than kicking off the New Year for RJJ promotions with a bang against a formidable foe and raising my rankings.” In his last appearance, Vera violently dispatched Milorad Zizic (12-2-0) in just two rounds. Now John will joust with former WBO World Title Challenger Salim Larbi (20-6-2) will be fighting to finish “The Phenom”. “It’s a great opportunity for me and to be the main event, makes me even more excited which is why I can not wait to get in the ring.” stated Salim Larbi ” I am feeling ready for anything, I know he is a RJJ fighter and undefeated, its all I need to know.”

Tickets can be purchased at $79 ringside, $49, & $29 general admission, tickets are on sale now Celebrity Theaters Taxes and fees apply to all sold tickets.

Websites: www.royjonesjrboxing.com

Twitter: @RoyJonesJrFA, @KeithVeltre, @RealRoyJonesJr

Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ RoyJonesJrBoxing

Instagram: @johnverajr88,@salimlarbiboxing, @KeenanCarbajal, @ryanriddell_

Follow these fighters on Twitter: @johnverajr, @larbisalim,

RIVAL BOXING GEAR & EQUIPMENT is the official gloves partner for Roy Jones Jr Boxing Promotions, @rivalboxinggear

Co-founded in 2013 by 10-times world champion Roy Jones, Jr. and Keith Veltre, Roy Jones, Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions is on its way to reinventing boxing. Based in Las Vegas, Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions is climbing to the top at a fast pace, adding young talent to its growing stable such as undefeated super welterweight John Vera & Daniel Rosario, welterweight Flavio Rodriquez, former 3x world champion super bantomweight Joseph Agbeko, along with Tony Lopez & Hanzel Martinez, lightweight Demond Brock, super featherweight Bryan Vasquez, Kevin Lavalle & Randy Moreno, cruiser weight Irsael Duffus, bantamweight Max Ornelas, superlightweight Emanuel Robles, middleweight Rolanda Garza, light heavy weight Adrian Taylor, super flyweight Aston Francis Palicte, and light weight Ismail Muwendo.




King’s Promotions signs 5-fight deal for boxing events at the 2300 Arena in 2017

Philadelphia, PA (January 12, 2017)- Marshall Kauffman’s King’s Promotions is excited to announce the promotional company has inked a 5-fight deal to stage high quality boxing events at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

Those dates, which will be in April, May, June, September and December, and will help make KIng’s Promotions the busiest promoter on the east coast for the 3rd straight year.

Those five dates are added to at least four dates at the Sands Bethlehem Event Center.

King’s Promotions 1st date of 2017 will come on Saturday, February 11th at the Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington, Maryland.

King’s Promotions, which has been one of the most active promoters in the United States, staged events in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Florida, Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C. in 2016, and is eager to continue putting on entertaining cards that will not only feature the best fighter’s from the Delaware and Lehigh Valley, but the top fighters from all over the world in nationally televised events.

“We are happy to get this deal done and we are excited to showcase our events in the great fight town of Philadelphia,” said Marshall Kauffman of King’s Promotions.

“The 2300 Arena is a 1st class facility and its a pleasure to work with Roger Artigiani and his staff.”




Brooklyn-born Pennington confident he can dethrone Gray Feb. 4th

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (Jan. 12th, 2017) — Courtney Pennington doesn’t have a lengthy amateur background to fall back on, but at least one of his fights from his short amateur career might help guide him through his latest challenge next month at Twin River Casino.

On Saturday, Feb. 4th, 2017, the Brooklyn-born Pennington faces reigning Universal Boxing Federation (UBF) junior middleweight title-holder and Worcester, Mass., native Khiary Gray (14-1, 11 KOs) in the eight-round main event of CES Boxing’s 2017 season opener, a rematch of their 2012 amateur fight at Gleason’s Gym in New York in the annual Long Island Amateur Boxing Championships.

Pennington admits he didn’t realize Gray was a former adversary until after he had already accepted the rematch, but now that his memory has been jogged, he remembers winning that night and also remembers how and why his opponent struggled, which he says is a pattern he’s picked up on since watching Gray as a pro, most notably in Gray’s loss to Ian Green on ShoBox: The New Generation in July.

“I saw him have trouble with the jab just as he had trouble in our fight in the amateurs,” Pennington said. “There are some things I see. Fighters have tendencies. There are a lot of areas where he’s the same fighter. We’ll be looking to capitalize on that.

“He gets a little over-aggressive, which is another thing we like to capitalize on. A fighter can punch as hard as he wants and be as fast as he wants, but that boxing skill to maintain your distance and not overshoot your punches, as you grow up to fight a higher caliber of fighter, that definitely starts to get exposed.”

Gray’s trainer, Kendrick Ball, remembers it differently.

“Khiary really wasn’t a busy fighter at the time, but he was making the kid miss like crazy,” Ball said. “He really didn’t touch Khiary. I thought we definitely won the fight, but they gave him the win because he was from there. That’s OK. We’ll make up for it now.”

Gray’s International and Northeast UBF titles are up for grabs in the Feb. 4th headliner, promoted by CES Boxing in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.

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

Trained by Mustafa Marconi at Brooklyn’s Jamiva Boxing, the 30-year-old Pennington considers himself a thinking man’s fighter, a student of the game who pays attention to the opposition in his weight class and watches as much boxing as possible to hone his craft.

Like many New York-born fighters, he’s been forced to adapt in recent months as new insurance regulations passed by the state assembly have priced out many mid-level regional promoters; Pennington’s promoter, Star Boxing, a fan-favorite in the metro area for its long-running fight series at the Paramount Theater, hasn’t promoted a show in New York since August. Pennington himself hasn’t fought there since April.

“The New York situation has everyone on edge,” he said. “Everyone is looking for fights, especially in our area because, of course, we want to build our fan base locally, but we’ve had to adapt to whatever has been brought to us.

“I look at boxing in this generation like this: In the beginning of a boxer’s career, yeah, you have to move carefully and manage the fighter. You don’t want him to face any tough competition in the beginning, but the only way to truly develop as a fighter is to challenge yourself. I want to develop to the best of my abilities, so that’s why I’m willing to challenge myself. Of course, I’m realistic. I’m not ready to fight Canelo [Alvarez] right now, but I’ve fought a lot of tough fights.”

One of them occurred just a few months ago in November when Pennington took his act to Connecticut and stopped 14-1-1 Boyd Melson in the seventh round of a scheduled eight-round fight, a big lift for Pennington following his narrow loss to fellow New Yorker Patrick Day in April.

While Pennington wouldn’t go as far as to say the win over Melson was a confidence-booster – “the confidence was never gone,” he said – he’s aware of the difference in each of his last two fights and how his success ultimately hinges on his ability to execute the game plan.

“Even though I lost the Patrick Day fight, just how the fight went, I knew if it was a longer fight I could’ve won the fight, or if I had done what I was supposed to do from the beginning,” Pennington said. “We knew why we lost. It wasn’t because he was a better fighter.

“I was a little too complacent in the beginning of the fight. That’s what had me behind on the cards. If we did what we had to do that night, we’d have won the fight. I didn’t care about having a tune-up fight or an easy fight next. I wanted a tough fight because I know my abilities and I know who I’m supposed to be.”

After stepping up to face Melson on foreign soil, Pennington again travels north to Rhode Island, which has become Gray’s home base since he turned pro in June of 2014. On paper, Gray is likely considered the favorite based on his dazzling 14-1 record and knockout ratio, but Pennington warns against judging fighter’s based on their record, particularly his.

“My record is deceiving,” he said. “Of course, having been in some tough fights we have some losses we don’t like that don’t look good on my record, however, we’re doing great as far as attracting fights we want.

“My last fight, I feel like if I was undefeated, [Melson] wouldn’t have accepted the challenge. It put me in a great position to do what I had to do. I train with one of the best trainers. I’m in New York, so I have access to a bunch of great sparring. I spar with the best in New York. I’m ready. I feel great about this fight.”

New York and Boston-area sports teams have gone toe-to-toe for decades, whether it’s the Yankees and Red Sox or Giants and Patriots, and Feb. 4th is the latest chapter in the ancient east coast rivalry as the Brooklyn-born Pennington heads north to face the hard-hitting Bay State native Gray. The stakes are much higher this time around.

“I didn’t have a big amateur career career, so it took a little time for me to get my groove and be confident in the ring,” Pennington said. “When a boxer is confident in the ring, you can see by his composure. He’s relaxed, able to channel the crowd out and focus on the fight at hand. That’s when a fighter is at his supreme best. I feel I’ve been able to relax and I’ve been able to focus. I’m ready to go.”

The Feb. 4th card features an additional title bout as New Haven, Conn., vet Josh Crespo (7-4-3, 3 KOs) faces unbeaten Timmy Ramos (4-0-1, 4 KOs) of Framingham, Mass., in a six-round bout for the vacant New England Super Featherweight Championship.

In a battle of unbeatens, Hartford, Conn., prospect Jose Rivera (2-0, 2 KOs) faces his toughest test to date in a six-round junior middleweight showdown against New Bedford, Mass., vet Ray Oliveira Jr. (6-0, 1 KO) and fellow undefeated prospects and decorated amateurs Jamaine Ortiz (2-0, 2 KOs) of Worcester, Mass., and Canton Miller (2-0, 1 KO) of Saint Louis, Mo., square off in a four-round lightweight battle.

Framingham’s Julio Perez (4-1) ends his nine-month layoff in a four-round intrastate showdown against Salem vet Matt Doherty (5-3-1, 3 KOs), who returns to Twin River for the first time since July of 2015. Following a busy 2016 in which he fought six times in seven months, Worcester’s Kendrick Ball Jr. (4-0-2, 3 KOs) faces Minneapolis’ Kenneth Glenn (3-2, 1 KO) in a four-round middleweight bout, and Framingham middleweight Christopher Davis-Fogg (2-0, 1 KO) makes his Twin River debut in a four-round bout against Anthony Everett (1-4) of Lawrence, Mass.

Taunton, Mass., welterweight Marqus Bates (0-1) aims to bounce back from a loss in his professional debut in a four-round battle against Providence, R.I., native Aaron Muniz, who makes his debut. Junior welterweights Khiry Todd (1-0, 1 KO) of Lynn, Mass., and Anthony Marsella (3-0, 2 KOs) of Providence will be featured in separate four-round bouts. Both appeared on the 2016 season finale at Twin River with first-round knockouts wins; Marsella stopped Devante Seay for his second consecutive knockout win and Todd dominated Patrick Leal in his professional debut.

The Feb. 4th card will also feature two special CES Ring of Honor ceremonies inducting famed boxing trainer Kevin Rooney, who worked with world champions Mike Tyson and Vinny Paz in his storied career, and the late Manny Lopes of Marshfield, Mass., a former light heavyweight prospect who fought his entire career with CES Boxing until retiring undefeated in 2010.

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




Maurice Hooker vs. Juan Pablo Lopez Added to Cotto-Kirkland Undercard

Reigning NABO Junior Welterweight Champion Maurice “Mighty Mo” Hooker (20-0-3, 14 KOs) will face Mexican knockout specialist Juan Pablo “Che Che” Lopez (29-3, 24 KOs) in a 10-round champion defense on the freeview undercard of Miguel Cotto vs. James Kirkland “The Return” on Saturday, February 25 at Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas.

It comes as no surprise the Dallas-native was on hand when Roc Nation Sports, Miguel Cotto Promotions and the Dallas Cowboys organization officially announced the event in December at the team’s newly minted World Corporate Headquarters.

Tickets priced at $304, $204, $154, $104, $79, $54 and $29 not including applicable service charges and taxes, are on sale now and available at all Ticketmaster locations, online at Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at (800) 745-3000 and the AT&T Stadium box office.

Maurice Hooker and Roc Nation Sports confirmed the card today on their social media handles.

MAURICE HOOKER TWITTER: https://twitter.com/mightymohooker/status/819578558905548800
MAURICE HOOKER INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/p/BPK6oL5DCib/?taken-by=mauricemightymohooker
ROC NATION TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RocNation/status/819580458216411136
ROC NATION INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/p/BPK7fJYgEKi/?taken-by=rocnationsports




Erislandy Lara Training Camp Quotes


MIAMI (January 12, 2017) – Super welterweight world champion Erislandy Lara is primed and ready for his world title defense against former world champion Yuri Foreman this Friday, January 13 in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions on Spike from Hialeah Park Racing and Casino in Miami.

Additional action on Spike features former world champion Anthony Dirrell and Hungary’s Norbert Nemesapati, who meet in a 10-round super middleweight bout. Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT and features undefeated prospects Miguel Cruz, who attended today’s press conference,and Alex Martin in welterweight action.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing, are priced at $25, $35, $50, $75, $100 and $125, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online at www.myticketforce.com by clicking HERE, by phone at (877) 840-0457 or at the Hialeah Park casino cage.

Here is what Lara had to say about Foreman, training camp with Ronnie Shields and more:

On his recent training camp…

“We just wrapped up about a week and we got some good rest during fight week. Training camp has been very productive. I’m comfortable with my weight and I feel strong going into this fight. My strength and conditioning is right where I want it. Ronnie and I are always polishing up on the things I do well. Overall, it’s been a great camp.”

On facing former world champion Yuri Foreman…

“I’m grateful to Yuri Foreman for accepting this fight. I know he’s hungry to get back in the ring. He wants to prove that he’s still relevant in the super welterweight division. He’s a former world champion who knows what it’s like to win at the elite level. I’m not looking past Yuri Forman, but I’m very confident I’ll be victorious. I feel I’m going to be the superior fighter when we both step in the ring tomorrow night.”

On returning to Miami to fight in front of a large Cuban community…

“My last fight here was amazing and the fan support was unbelievable. I got the knockout and I’m hoping to do the same again. If I see my opponent hurt, I’ll be looking to take him out. I love my Cuban countrymen and all their support, as well as my American fans. Miami is like a second home to me and I can’t wait to give the fans a great show.”

On the state of the super welterweight division…

“The division, in my opinion, is the most talented division in boxing. Everyone at the top is looking to cement their legacy in boxing history and everyone is spectacular. In the future, we will all have to face each other at some point. So, expect some unification bout to be presented, and may the best man rise to the top. I know I’m ready to fight everyone, but first I must get past Foreman.”

On fighting in the main event on Spike…

“Fighting on Spike, as the main event, is going to fantastic. The exposure is wonderful for any athlete competing on their network. Boxing is a great sport, and Spike TV is helping us gain more fans with their viewers. The PBC is doing an excellent job. I’m very happy to be fighting on network television.”

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.spike.com/shows/premier-boxing-champions. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LaraBoxing, @YForeman, @AnthonyDirrell, @SpikeTV, @SpikeSports @WarriorsBoxingProm and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions. PBC on Spike is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.




GENNADY “GGG” GOLOVKIN & DANIEL “THE MIRACLE MAN” JACOBS HOST LOS ANGELES PRESS CONFERENCE

— Photo Credit : Chris Farina – K2 Promotions
April 22, 2016 , Los Angeles, Ca. — Boxing Superstar and Unified World Middleweight Champion Gennady “GGG” Golovkin, 34-0 (31KO’s) and Undefeated Mandatory Challenger Dominic Wade, 18-0 (12KO’s) weigh in Friday in Los Angeles, California.
Boxing Superstar and Undefeated, Unified World Middleweight Champion Gennady, “GGG” Golovkin, 34-0 (31KO’s) will defend his titles (WBA, IBF, IBO and WBC “Interim’) against Undefeated Mandatory Challenger Dominic Wade, 18-0 (12KO’s) on Saturday, April 23 at the Fabulous Forum in the main event at UNDEFEATED.
Co-featured will be Consensus #1 Pound-For-Pound Fighter and WBC Flyweight World Champion Roman “Chocolatito” Gonzalez, 44-0 (38KO’s) battling World Ranked Contender McWilliams Arroyo, 16-2 (14KO’s) of Puerto Rico.
Both bouts will be televised Live on HBO World Championship Boxing® beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT.
Tickets for UNDEFEATED, priced at $400, $300, $200, $100, $60 and $30, are now on sale through Ticketmaster (Ticketmaster.com, 1-800-745-3000) and the Forum Box Office.
Golovkin vs. Wade is promoted by K2 Promotions, GGG Promotions and in association with TGB Promotions. Gonzalez vs. McWilliams is presented by K2 Promotions in association with Teiken Promotions and PR Best Boxing Promotions.

NEW YORK CITY (January 12, 2017) Unified Middleweight World Champion (WBC, WBA, IBF, IBO) GENNADY “GGG” GOLOVKIN (36-0, 33 KO’s) and WBA Middleweight Champion and Mandatory Challenger DANIEL “THE MIRACLE MAN” JACOBS (32-1, 29 KO’s) hosted a massive contingent of Southern California media on Wednesday in Downtown Los Angeles to promote their highly anticipated showdown set for Saturday, March 18 at “The Mecca of Boxing”, Madison Square Garden. The championship event will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

Golovkin and Jacobs have an extraordinary, combined 35 consecutive knockouts heading into this highly anticipated battle.

Presented by K2 Promotions, tickets for “MIDDLEWEIGHT MADNESS” priced at $1000, $600, $400, $300, $200 and $100, are now on sale and can be purchased at the Madison Square Garden Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster charge by phone (866-858-0008) and online at www.ticketmaster.com or www.thegarden.com.

Below are quotes from the participants:

GENNADY “GGG” GOLOVKIN
“Everybody wants to see this fight. Daniel is a great fighter, I’m very excited to be facing him because for me it’s very important who is better, in the ring. I have a great deal of respect for Daniel for taking this fight.”

“I also have a great deal of respect for this sport and that’s why it’s important for me and for everyone to find out who is #1 in the middleweight division. Right now my position and Danny’s position is to find out who is #1.”
“Thanks to my team, to HBO and Madison Square Garden, my friends, my family. I welcome everyone to watch the fight on March 18.”

DANIEL “THE MIRACLE MAN” JACOBS
“I want to thank my team for allowing me to become the man I am inside and outside the ring. Thanks to my family for always sticking by my side for supporting me. K2 and HBO and everyone involved for allowing this to be the mega-fight that it is.”

“This fight has the material to be one of the best fights in a very long time. What we all bring to the table, this is a can’t miss fight. You guys are going to either want to show up or buy the pay-per-view, this is a fight that cannot miss. Two guys, two dedicated knockout punches, you can’t get any better than this. “

“I’m privileged to face the best. Nine times out of ten, guys don’t take on the toughest challenges, they milk the game in a sense as much as they can.”

“I credit Gennady for taking this fight, I have the utmost respect for him and his team but come March 18, the questions that have been asked about me will be answered, who I truly am, what I bring to the table and just how great I can be.”

“I haven’t come this far to give up, I’m scared of no man, I fear nothing, my back has been against the wall so many times and I’ve accepted that this is no different. It’s a tough challenge but one I look forward to.”

“For however long it lasts, I’m sure it’s going to be an entertaining fight. Once again I’m grateful for those who supported me for allowing me to have this amazing dream, to fight the best. I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

ABEL SANCHEZ, Trainer of Golovkin

“We are looking forward to again facing one of Sam and Al’s projects. Andre Rozier has a program of developing a lot of very, very good fighters as we do in Big Bear. On fight night they’re both champions in the ring and we hope that they give you the kind of fight that your presence requires.

ANDRE ROZIER, Trainer of Jacobs

“Give both these fighters all the credit in the world for taking this fight. These guys are putting
it all on the line and they deserve the respect.

“A lot of people don’t know Danny Jacobs, he’s a gentleman out of the ring and when that first bell ring he becomes a monster, I know that this fight will put Danny in the history books. I’ve known him since he 14 years old and he’s never, ever disappointed me and I don’t expect him to disappoint me on March 18.”

TOM LOEFFLER, Managing Director of K2 Promotions
“This is really two champions fighting each other, there’s no question these are the two best fighters in their division and that’s what the fans respond to, the best fighting the best. There’s not going to be any tables thrown, both fighters are great ambassadors for the sport of boxing, this is clearly how the sport should be conducted. Both are confident in their abilities; the teams as well have a tremendous amount of respect for each other.”

“This is the type of fight that fans want to see, who is the best middleweight in the world. Danny wasn’t going to take this fight unless he was confident in winning and the same for Gennady, it’s a mandated fight from the WBA so if Gennady wanted to keep his title he had to fight Danny Jacobs. The same thing for Danny if he wanted to prove he’s the best middleweight in the world, he’d have to fight Gennady.”

“This has really been a great start to the promotion, we went on sale two weeks ago over the holidays and the tickets sales are outpacing where they were when Gennady fought David Lemieux in October 2015 when MSG was completely sold out so we definitely see the response from both very strong fan bases.”

“With a combined 35 knockouts heading into this fight, Gennady and Danny will provide the excitement on March 18th that the fans want.”

SOCIAL MEDIA — #GGGJACOBS

Gennady “GGG” Golovkin
@GGGBoxing – Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

Daniel Jacobs
@DanielJacobsTKO – Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

HBO
@HBO, @HBOBoxing – Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

Madison Square Garden
@TheGarden – Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

Tom Loeffler (K2 Promotions)
@TomLoeffler1 — Twitter




ONE CHAMPIONSHIP ANNOUNCES COMPLETE CARD FOR ONE: THRONE OF TIGERS

12 January 2017 – Kuala, Lumpur: The largest sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship™ (ONE), in partnership with Tune Talk, has just announced additional bouts to complete a spectacular card at ONE: THRONE OF TIGERS. The blockbuster event will feature the absolute best in local and international mixed martial arts talent, accentuating a tremendous main event bout between hometown hero Ev “E.T.” Ting and lightweight veteran Kamal Shalorus.

Ticket information for ONE: THRONE OF TIGERS is available at www.onefc.com

Victor Cui, CEO of ONE Championship, stated: “ONE: THRONE OF TIGERS is shaping up to be one of the most exciting cards we have ever held in Kuala Lumpur. It has a great headlining bout between Malaysia’s very own Ev Ting and a veteran of the sport in Kamal Shalorus. In addition, the card has an amazing roster of talent. Fans in Malaysia and all around the world can look forward to an amazing night of world-class mixed martial arts action.”

The undefeated Agilan “Alligator” Thani of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, will be making his return to the ONE Championship cage, following his spectacular submission victory over hard-hitting Filipino fighter Trestle Tan in September 2016. The 21-year old prospect is a perfect 6-0 as a professional, with five of his six victories ending in the first round. Thani has shown steady improvement in each outing, and will look to put his skills further to the test against Chinese Taipei’s Jeff Huang.

Jeff “The Machine” Huang is Chinese Taipei’s top welterweight, and he cemented that standing when he knocked out Indian kickboxer Bala Shetty in his ONE Championship debut. Despite having a comfortable career as a financial consultant, Huang elected to give it up to follow his passion and dedicate himself to mixed martial arts. Huang spent his life savings to travel the world and pick up new techniques, studying various fight disciplines. In his most recent bout, Huang finished Filipino fighter Trestle Tan with a furious punching combination to earn a scintillating first-round TKO. All six of Huang’s victories so far have ended in spectacular fashion. He will do battle with Malaysian prospect Agilan Thani next.

30-year-old Ann “Athena” Osman of Kota Kinabalu is Malaysia’s premier women’s combat sports star. Training out of the coastal locale of Sabah, the female warrior hones her craft at Borneo Tribal Squad, advancing her skills in various disciplines such as wrestling, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and Muay Thai. A well-rounded mixed martial artist, Osman likes to overpower her opponents and is extremely aggressive, always looking for the finish. Osman will take on Cambodia’s Vy Srey Khouch in her return to the ONE Championship cage.

Vy Srey Khouch is a highly-regarded Cambodian female boxer who competed in numerous international competitions. She made her professional mixed martial arts debut in 2015, winning by decision at ONE: KINGDOM OF KHMER. Srey Kouch is currently unbeaten and riding a two-fight win streak. In her next bout, she will take on the gargantuan task of handling Malaysian women’s MMA standout, Ann Osman.

28-year-old Herbert “The Blaze” Burns of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is one of the most talented featherweights in ONE Championship. The grappling specialist has a penchant for locking in fight-ending submissions, and is a legitimate threat to any opponent on the mat. In his last bout, Burns submitted the hard-hitting Timofey Nastyukhin with a first-round rear-naked choke. With his strong background in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Burns is widely considered as one of the top contenders in his division. He squares off with Russian combatant Movlid Khaibulaev next.

26-year-old Movlid “Killer” Khaibulaev is currently undefeated with an immaculate 10-0 professional record, and is a mixed martial artist from Russia. Half of his victories have come by finish, including one submission and four emphatic knockouts. Having spent the majority of his career competing in his home country, Khaibulaev now makes his debut in Asia by putting his unblemished win-loss slate on the line against fellow undefeated standout Herbert Burns.

22-year-old Keanu Subba of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is a former amateur MMA standout and one of the most promising young talents in ONE Championship’s featherweight ranks. He is 4-2 as a professional mixed martial artist after making a name for himself as the former MIMMA featherweight champion. Subba’s experience inside the ONE Championship cage as a young fighter has taught him great lessons that he says has helped him improve his overall game. He’ll get the chance to test those skills against fast-rising Ahmed Mujtaba next.

Ahmed “The Wolverine” Mujtaba is a Pakistani mixed martial artist competing in ONE Championship’s stacked featherweight division. He owns a perfect professional record of six wins and no losses, with 83% of his wins coming by spectacular finish. He is known for his tremendous grappling technique which has led to four submissions out of six total victories. Mujtaba makes his second ONE Championship appearance against local Malaysian hero Keanu Subba.

Roy Doliguez is a Filipino mixed martial artist currently riding a 6-3 record. Considered one of the best strawweights in Asia, Doliguez is also a former professional boxer with more than 40 pro bouts. He made his promotional debut in 2015, vying for the inaugural ONE Strawweight World Championship against Dejdamrong Sor Amnuaysirichoke. The 34-year-old native of Sarangani, Philippines, makes his return to the ONE Championship cage against Brazil’s Alex Silva.

33-year-old Alex “Little Rock” Silva of Brazil is a mixed martial artist who holds a record of 4-1 as a professional, and is riding high on a three-fight winning streak. He is a Brazilian jiu-jitsu specialist with a terrifying ground game and knack for securing highlight-reel submission finishes. With steadily increasing confidence, Silva’s last three victories have ended in spectacular first-round submissions. He takes on former world title challenger Roy Doliguez next.

Saiful “The Vampire” Merican of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is happy to compete in front of his hometown crowd in Kuala Lumpur once again. The 28-year old flyweight combatant is an explosive striker who starts bouts fast, always looking to end matters early. He has had incredible success inside the ONE Championship cage with his fan-friendly fighting style. Merican is now looking to open 2017 with a bang by defeating Filipino fighter Burn Soriano.

Burn “The Hitman” Soriano of Ilocos Sur, Philippines, is coming off a highlight-reel victory over Indonesia’s Mario Sitya Wirawan, scoring a lightning quick 15-second spinning back fist KO. With a professional mixed martial arts record of 3-2 which includes two wins by submission and one by knockout, Soriano looks to continue his winning ways inside the ONE Championship cage. In his next bout, Soriano goes head-to-head with Malaysian MMA hero Saiful Merican.

26-year-old Tiffany “Soul Crusher” Teo is a female mixed martial artist who competes in ONE Championship’s women’s flyweight division. She holds an unblemished professional record of four wins and no losses, including two submissions and two knockouts. Born in Brunei and raised in Singapore, Teo began training in taekwondo before moving on to compete in boxing & Muay Thai and eventually transitioning to MMA. Teo is set to make her second appearance inside the ONE Championship cage against Priscilla Hertati Lumban Gaol.

Indonesian female fighter Priscilla Hertati Lumban Gaol is a striker who has trained in various standing disciplines such as kickboxing and wushu. She makes her ONE Championship debut at ONE: THRONE OF TIGERS, joining a growing list of elite female MMA talent in Asia. Gaol will look to emerge triumphant in her first appearance inside the ONE Championship cage, but will have to go through Singaporean prospect Tiffany Teo to earn the victory.

Kicking off an exciting fight card at ONE: THRONE OF TIGERS, former MIMMA featherweight champion Muhammad Aiman of Malaysia will do battle against grappling ace Eduardo Novaes. The 21-year-old Aiman is 1-1 as a professional mixed martial artist and will be put to the test against Novaes, who is making his ONE Championship promotional debut.

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

About ONE Championship™
ONE Championship is the largest sports media property in Asian history. Headquartered in Singapore, the world’s most exciting mixed martial arts organization hosts the largest sports entertainment events across Asia featuring the best Asian mixed martial artists and world champions, all signed to exclusive contracts, on the largest media broadcast in Asia. ONE Championship is broadcast to over 1 billion viewers across 118+ countries around the world with some of the largest global broadcasters, including FOX Sports, Setanta, MNC, Astro, Thairath TV, ABS-CBN, TV5, MYTV, HTV, Esporte Interativo and more.

About Tune Talk
Tune Talk is the largest mobile prepaid MVNO service provider in Malaysia. Officially launched on 19 August 2009, the company aims to offer low, flat-calling rates and incentives to under-served segment of the market, providing easy accessibility and a wide distribution reach for its products. Tune Talk is the result and culmination of years of dedication and hard work. With more than 1.5 million active subscribers currently enjoying the company’s services, it is our aspiration to grow to an unprecedented level and one day becoming the ASEAN MVNO.




Prospect Irvin Gonzalez continuing Worcester boxing tradition Jan 19th

WORCESTER, Mass. (January 11, 2017) – Fast rising featherweight prospect Irvin Gonzalez (4-0, 4 KOs) will continue Worcester’s rich boxing tradition Thursday night, January 19, headlining the inaugural “New England’s Future” series event against Mexican invader Israel “Tigre” Rojas (9-14, 3 KOs), at the Worcester Palladium.

Rivera Promotions Entertainment (RPE), is promoting the first professional boxing show in the Central Massachusetts city in more than five years.
(photo by Cristian Nunez)
Worcester’s boxing tradition started close to a century ago with Canadian import Lou Brouillard, a two-division world champion and Hall of Famer, 1928 Olympic bronze medalist Leo Sawicki, and more recently, among others, pro and amateur standouts such as multiple national amateur champion Bobby Harris, Sean “The Irish Express” Sean Fitzgerald and Edwin Rodriguez.

Arguably the greatest Worcester fighter in the past 50 years is three-time, two-division world champion Jose Antonio “El Gallo” Rivera, who is promoting “New England’s Future” with his son, Anthonee. “I have seen Irvin train and fight since he was in the Junior Olympics,” Rivera said. “I am very proud of him because he was able to discover on his own that he was getting in his own way. He was always a talented fighter but, at times in the ring, he was inconsistent and it cost him a few fights. As he got older, he boxed more talented boxers and looked good against them. He started believing in himself more and it showed in his training. His abilities and confidence grew and that got him all the way to the Olympic Trials. I feel he has the skills to become world champion in the future. The sky is the limit for this young man and I am proud to have him fighting on our show.”

Gonzalez, a 2015 New England Golden Gloves champion, will be headlining his first show in his first scheduled six-round bout. “Fighting in my hometown in the main event means a lot to me because,” Gonzalez admitted. “I’ve grown up in this city, fighting my whole life, and of people who’ve supported me will be watching me fight for the first time as a pro. I’m excited. I’m comfortable fighting here in Worcester and I want to showcase the boxing talent we have in Worcester.”

Gonzalez qualified for the 2016 Olympic Trials but he was eliminated, not due to a loss in the ring, for missing weight. He decided not to wait four years for another Olympic shot, turning pro this past March with a first-round stoppage of Gilvan Santos at Foxwoods Resort Casino. In four pro fights to date, Gonzalez has four knockouts and only one was extended into the second round.

“I was always told that I had a pro boxing style,” the well-spoken, handsome Gonzalez continued, “but we didn’t immediately decide to turn pro until the time was right. I had some stoppages as an amateur but, as a pro, I’ve been going more to the body. I do have heavy hands. I don’t go into a fight looking for a knockout. I just let ’em come but I’ve prepared to go six rounds if needed for this fight. I’ve been sparring eight rounds with different guys coming in fresh.”

In addition to being a prize fighter, the 20-year-old Gonzalez works at a bank and he also owns and operates New England Boxing gym with his father, former boxer Irvin Gonzalez, where the youngster serves as a personal trainer.

In the six-round co-feature Springfield (MA) light heavyweight Reinaldo “Bazooka” Graceski (4-0, 2 KOs) faces Worcester’s Ralph Johnson (2-9, 1 KO).

Fighting on the undercard in four-round bouts are Worcester junior lightweight Ranse Andino in his pro debut vs. Lowell’s (MA) Jonathan Perez (2-0-1, 2 KOs), pro-debuting Worcester heavyweight Felix Martinez vs. Bobby Favor (0-3), Hartford’s (CT) pro-debuting light heavyweight Richard “Popeye The Sailor Man” Rivera vs. Brockton’s (MA) Davonte Hopkins (0-2), pro-debuting Southbridge (MA) boxer Wilfredo Pagan vs. Alexander Picot (1-1-1, 0 KOs) at a 145-pound catchweight, pro-debuting Springfield (MA) junior featherweight Luis “Pancho” Santiago vs, Jonathan Ramos (0-2), 2016 N.E. Golden Gloves champion Anthony Laureano (1-0), of East Haven (CT), vs. Boston junior welterweight Rafael Francis (0-8), Auburn (MA) junior middleweight “Irish” Chuck Shearns (2-1, 1 KO), the 49-year-old hanging up his gloves after his fight with Shavonte Dixon (0-1), of Philadelphia, Saugus (MA) light heavyweight Brandon Montella (5-0, 4 KOs) vs. Roberto El Viejo” Valenzuela (69-73-2, 56 KOs) and unbeaten Lawrence (MA) heavyweight Jean Pierre Augstin (7-0-1, 3 KOs) vs. Jose Hymberto “Olympico” Corral (19-22, 12 KOs).

All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets, priced at $65.00 (ringside), $45.00 (preferred seating) and $35.00 (general admission), are on sale and available to purchase at www.ThePalladium.net or the Palladium box office (general admission only), or by contacting Jose Rivera (elgallojar@gmail.com/508.864.6954), AJ Rivera (anthoneerivera@gmail.com/774.272.2269) of any of the fighters. A portion of the proceeds will go to Why Me & Sherry’s House.

Major event sponsors include Lundgren Honda, Atty. Michael H. Erlich, Atty. Maria M. Rivera-Cotto and USANA Health Services. Other sponsors are TKO Auto Repair and Atty. Stephen W. Debs.

INFORMATION:
Facebook.com/RiveraPromotionsEntertainment
Twitter: @RiveraPromoEnt @joseriverachamp




Badou Jack vs. James DeGale Media Workout Quotes


BROOKLYN (January 11. 2017) – Fight week activities officially began today with media workouts at the brand new Gleason’s Gym in Brooklyn before the super middleweight title unification showdown between Badou Jack and James DeGale that headlines action this Saturday, January 14 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn and live on SHOWTIME.

Also in attendance and opening the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT are junior lightweight world champion Jose Pedraza and unbeaten contender Gervonta Davis.

Additional televised action will feature super bantamweight world champion Amanda Serrano defending her title against former two-division world champion Yazmin Rivas on SHOWTIME EXTREME. The telecast beings at 7 p.m. ET/PT with a matchup of undefeated middleweights Ievgen Khytrov and Immanuwel Aleem.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, start at $25. Tickets are available now and can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

BADOU JACK

“I’m just trying to stay positive and enjoy this moment. I wish that the fight was tomorrow night. But we’re showing patience and bracing for the opportunity.

“This is the biggest fight of my career and I’m ready to take it to the next level. I have the experience to be on this stage and I’m ready to show that I’m one of the best in the sport.

“I’ve seen DeGale fight a few times. His last couple of fights I don’t think we’ve seen the best of him. I want the best James DeGale to show up on fight night. There won’t be any excuses on fight night.

“I’m in the best shape of my life. I’m pretty sure he’s in the best shape of his life too. So let’s see who is the best.

“I’m going in there to break him down. I’m going to be the better fighter. If I get an opportunity to land something that can change the fight, I’m going to take my chance.

“This has been one of the best training camps of my career. My nutrition is better than it’s ever been and I have positive people around me.

“I believe I can knock anybody out who gets in the ring with me. If you don’t believe that in yourself, then you’re in the wrong sport. I’m not expecting an easy fight, but I’ll do whatever it takes to win.

“My trainer Lou Del Valle is the reason that I’ve improved so much. I brought him back in after my loss and he’s helped get me to where I am right now.

“There is no doubt we’ll know who the best super middleweight in the world is after Saturday night.”

JAMES DEGALE

“I just flew to New York on Monday after a brilliant camp. I’ve been training well and sparring hard. I’ve had some great work on the track and I’ve ran a lot of miles. I’m in fantastic shape.

“This fight has a different feel. I feel like I’m in a big fight. I feel like I’m on a different level of fitness for this one. Mind, body and soul. Everything is great.

“I’m mentally prepared. Badou Jack is an extremely good fighter. He’s a tough opponent. He gets better every single fight. The way I’m feeling right now, Badou Jack shouldn’t beat me. I’m focused on fighting my very best.

“I’ve sacrificed a lot to put myself in this position and to make sure this was a great camp. Now the time is here.

“To have a media day in Brooklyn is great. I’m in a fantastic position in my life and career. I’m more comfortable than I was years ago. Back in the day I wouldn’t know what to say. I’m a man now and I’m ready to reach my destiny.

“Movement, speed and angles are my keys. If I’m focused and take no rounds off, that should do it. It will do it. Anything can happen in boxing, but I’m too prepared for this.

“I look at Badou Jack, and even though he’s been getting better, I think I’m a much better fighter. He’s very high quality and I have to be on my game. It’s going to be a great fight, but I will be victorious.

“My loss to George Groves was a blessing in disguise. If that didn’t happen to me, I don’t know where I would be in my career. I was too big for my boots back then. I thought I was the golden boy and I was humbled. I had to rebuild and I came back.”

JOSE PEDRAZA

“I let [Gervonta] Davis do the talking. I like when people talk like that, because I get to shut them up on the night of the fight. He’s a Floyd Mayweather imitation. Just like all imitations, it’s not as good as the real one.

“I’m very happy to be here representing Puerto Rico in New York City with another Puerto Rican champion in Amanda Serrano. She’s a four-time champion who is very accomplished and it’s an honor to be on this card with her.

“I feel ready to fight. I’m anxious to get in the ring. I can’t wait for Saturday night and to show the whole world what I’m made of.

“I have the advantage in experience and in reach and height. He’s going to try to bring pressure but I’ll be ready for it.

“Not only do I have more pro experience, but more amateur experience as well. All of these years of being on the big stage is going to help me in the fight.

“I don’t think I’m underrated. People know my quality, which is why people avoid fighting me. I believe I’m the best fighter at 130-pounds.

“I’m ready for any type of fight. The question is, will Davis be ready? If Davis gets tired, he’s going to have trouble in the late rounds.”

GERVONTA DAVIS

“I feel great right now. I’m in tip-top shape. I had the best sparring available and everything went smoothly. I’m ready to go to work January 14.

“We know that Pedraza is a world champion who comes in undefeated. He does a lot of good things in the ring but we’ll be ready for them come fight night.

“It feels good to be on this stage. I feel ready to headline my own card. I’m ready to do my own thing and that comes with winning this world title.

“I haven’t watched too much of him, but my team is prepared. He doesn’t have anything I haven’t seen before. We just have to execute the game plan when the bell rings.”

YAZMIN RIVAS

“I know that I’m up against a girl who is a heavy hitter and can punch hard. I’ve been training extremely hard to prepare for this fight because I know I’m facing a dangerous fighter. I just need to maintain my weight up until fight night.

“I’ve trained with a lot of southpaws to prepare for Serrano’s style. It’s only the second time I’ve faced a southpaw. I come in with a game plan, but once you step in that ring, I know that anything can happen.

“I’m a veteran and I have the experience. Serrano will have to overcome my advantage there.

“I’m excited to be fighting in the U.S. and I know that this is a huge opportunity. Fighting on television is something I have to take advantage of. After this fight, people will really see what female boxing is all about.

“I’m very motivated and excited that I have the chance to fight in Brooklyn in the best city in the U.S. for boxing. I’m going to come to fight. I won’t back down and we will be in the middle of the ring exchanging.”

IEVGEN KHYTROV

“I’ve seen Aleem fight and he’s nothing special. He’s very fast. He does everything very quickly. But he can be hit. He has a little bit of power, but I can hit him.

“I’m going to take advantage of his mistakes. I’m ready for this fight and I’m going for the knockout. This isn’t going to be a long fight. I think I will knock him out in five or six rounds.

“I’m an aggressive fighter. I want to brawl. I want to throw a lot of punches. I’m happy if I can throw 100 punches in a round. Nobody can take that kind of punishment and it helps me get my opponent out of there.

“I’m happy to be fighting in Brooklyn at Barclays Center. It’s very important to my career. After this fight I am going to get big steps up and big names. I’m going to show what I can do on Saturday.

“I want to fight for a real world title. I’m ready for it and I just want to face good opponents and challenge myself.”

IMMANUWEL ALEEM

“This has been a great training camp. I have George Peterson in my corner and he made Paul Williams a three-time champion. He’s putting me through the same regimen that made him one of the most feared fighters in the sport.

“I don’t know too much about my opponent. We have a game plan based around him being some type of bull, but my trainer is the one analyzing that, and then we go from there.

“I bring the total package into the ring. There’s nothing I can’t do. I can box and I can brawl. Most importantly, I can make adjustments during a fight.

“A win here will really stamp who I am in this sport. We’re leading to become a world champion. I’m not a regular fighter in there. I can beat these top guys.”

JULIAN SOSA

“I can honestly say that this is one of the best training camps that I’ve had. I’m both nervous and excited. I’m nervous because I’ve never had a training camp like this and I’m excited to see how I feel in the ring.

“I’ve seen a few tapes of my opponent. He’s a very aggressive fighter who throws a lot of right hands. I have to prepare myself for that. If he wants to start early or take his time, I’m ready for anything.

“I’m very confident heading into this fight. I believe that I will put on a great performance and possibly the best of my career.

“I’m very thankful to be fighting at home in Brooklyn and I’m humbled to have the opportunity to perform at Barclays Center once again. There’s no better feeling than having your friends and family cheering you on.

# # #
ABOUT JACK vs. DEGALE
Badou Jack vs. James DeGale, a 12-round super middleweight world unification fight, is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment and takes place this Saturday, January 14 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn and live on SHOWTIME. Opening the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT are junior lightweight world champion Jose Pedraza and unbeaten contender Gervonta Davis.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, start at $25. Tickets are available now and can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @BadouJack, @JamesDegale1, @Sniper_Pedraza, @Gervontaa, @SHOSports, @MayweatherPromo, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotionswww.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. This event is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.




King’s Promotions sign junior welterweight prospect Clarence Booth plus undefeated bantamweight Dagoberto Aguero to promotional deals

Reading, PA (January 11, 2017)- Marshall Kauffman’s King’s Promotions is pleased to announce the signing of junior welterweight prospect Clarence Booth as well as undefeated bantamweight Dagoberto Aguero to promotional contracts.

“These are two quality fighters that we are excited to add to the King’s Promotions roster,”said CEO of King’s Promotions, Marshall Kauffman.

“They both have big upsides and we are eager to keep them active and get them into big fights, which will come sooner rather then later.”

Booth of Saint Petersburg, Florida has a record of 14-2 with 7 knockouts.

Clarence Booth signs the contract

The 29 year-old Booth had a brief 28 fight amateur career.

He turned pro in 2011 with a four round unanimous decision over Tommy Bryant.

Booth has showed a willingness to fight all comers as he taken on 4 undefeated foes, which includes scraps with top prospects Cletus Seldin and Alex Saucedo.

Booth has victories over Luis Joel Gonzalez (11-2-1); Osenohan Vazquez (8-2-1); Jonathan Perez (5-0) and Marcus Powell (1-0).

Booth is coming off a 8-round unanimous decision over Cesar Soriano on July 2nd in Saint Petersburg, Florida.

Booth has facilitated his training by becoming a regular sparring partner to undefeated WBA Welterweight champion Keith Thurman.

“I am excited about this opportunity. I love that Marshall has faith in me, and I am ready to get on the road to winning a world title. Marshall will have my best interest in doing that, and I am ready to work. I hope to fight for some type of title by the end of the year. I am putting my opponents to sleep. It would be great to end the year with a title fight through King’s Promotions,” said Booth.

Aguero of San Cristobal, Domincan Republic has a record of 10-0 with 8 knockouts.

The 23 year-old turned professional on August 8, 2013 with technical decision over Jonathan Vidal Sanchez. He has fought every one of his bouts in his native country, and will make his American debut shortly.

He is coming off a 1st round stoppage over Juan Miguel Garcia on June 24th, He has stopped his last 6 opponents.

“I’m excited to fight first of all, and I very happy and thankful to be doing it with people that are like my family,”said Aguero. “My Manager Nelson Lopez Jr. RAYNELO management and Nelson Lopez Sr of Nelsons Promotions told me we need to be working with Marshall Kauffman of Kings Promotions and what they says goes. In my country, it’s no secret, we are poor looking for an opportunity with out knowledge of the business. Nelson López and King Promotions are providing me this, and I will fight every fight like a championship fight to show my appreciation and make sure to make the most of this gift that God has given me. Thank you to my team and family.”




Premier Boxing Champions on Spike Erislandy Lara vs Yuri Foreman Final Press Conference Quotes


MIAMI (January 11, 2017) – Super welterweight world champion Erislandy Lara and former world champion Yuri Foreman met face to face Wednesday as they hosted the final press conference before they enter the ring in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions on Spike this Friday, January 13 from Hialeah Park Racing and Casino in Miami.

Also in attendance at Wednesday’s press conference was former world champion Anthony Dirrell and Hungary’s Norbert Nemesapati, who meet in a 10-round super middleweight bout Friday night on Spike. Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT and features undefeated prospects Miguel Cruz, who attended today’s press conference,and Alex Martin in welterweight action.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing, are priced at $25, $35, $50, $75, $100 and $125, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online at www.myticketforce.com by clicking HERE, by phone at (877) 840-0457 or at the Hialeah Park casino cage.

Here is what the participants had to say from the Turf Club at Hialeah Park:

ERISLANDY LARA

“Thank you everyone for coming, especially Spike TV and Hialeah Park. Thanks to Team Foreman for taking this fight. It’s going to be a great fight Friday night.

“Yuri Foreman is a great fighter and a very smart fighter. I am also a very smart fighter, so Friday night we’re going to find out who is the smarter one in the ring.

“I feel great. Very happy to be back in Miami in front of my Cuban and Latin fans. This is a great night for Miami and Spike and I plan on putting on a show and making a statement to the boxing world.

“I feel great. I’m in great shape and feel very strong. I’m ready to fight right now. I just want the bell to ring.”

YURI FOREMAN

“It’s great to be here in Miami where it’s nice and warm and with so many great fighters on this card. I’m ready and looking forward to Friday. I came here to win and I feel very positive about this.

“Erislandy Lara is a great fighter, but me being from the Soviet Union, I’m very familiar with Cuban boxing and have quite a bit of experience with their style, so I’m looking forward to stepping in and showcasing my talents and skills.

“Being a rabbi, it is sometimes very interesting to mix that with fighting, but Friday night I won’t be in rabbi mode. I will be all fighter. We are going to show skills and heart and power on Friday night.”

ANTHONY DIRRELL

“I think this is my third Spike event and I’m happy to be fighting on a show with two great fighters like Lara and Foreman.

“It’s going to be a hell of a show. We are going to put on a great show. All the fights on the card are tremendous fights – undefeated fighters fighting undefeated fighters and champions fighting champions and we are all coming to win.

“I was going to talk a lot of trash to him (Nemespati), but he can’t understand me anyway. I am looking forward to a great fight against a good opponent like him. Make sure you tune in on Friday and catch the action!”

NORBERT NEMESAPATI

“I am coming in as the smaller fighter, so I will have to put a lot of pressure on him. I sparred a lot of rounds for this fight, with a lot of tall guys. That’s fine with me that he is taller because I love to punch to the body.

“I might never get another opportunity like this, so I have to make the most of it. This is a beautiful place and I’m coming to the ring to win big. Thank you for this very special opportunity.”

MIGUEL CRUZ

“I wish that Alex Martin was here so I could talk a little smack to his face.

“13-0, 11 KOs vs. 13-0, 5 KOs… basically somebody’s ‘0’ has to go and I can give you a hint… it’s not going to be mine.

“I’m going to crush him like an ant with a sledgehammer. I’m going to destroy him. That’s the plan. Don’t miss it.”

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.spike.com/shows/premier-boxing-champions. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LaraBoxing, @YForeman, @AnthonyDirrell, @SpikeTV, @SpikeSports @WarriorsBoxingProm and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions. PBC on Spike is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.




COMBATE AMERICAS APPOINTS FINANCE AND SPORTS INDUSTRY LEADER JOE PLUMERI BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIRMAN

NEW YORK, January 11 — Combate Americas, the premier Hispanic Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) sports and media franchise, today announced the appointment of its lead investor, longtime financial services and sports industry entrepreneur and philanthropist Joe Plumeri, as its non-executive, board of directors chairman.

Plumeri, the Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors for payment processing technology giant First Data, former chairman and CEO of Willis Group Holdings, former CEO of Citibank, North America and former President and Managing Partner of Shearson Lehman Brothers, as well as the owner of the New York Yankees minor league affiliate team, The Trenton Thunder, will sit on the board alongside Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) co-founder and Combate Americas CEO Campbell McLaren, and three of Plumeri’s fellow strategic investors.

Plumeri’s appointment comes on the heels of Combate Americas closing its series B round of financing.

“We are honored and excited to name such an esteemed and accomplished member of the business community like Joe Plumeri as the chairman of our board of directors and to have him play such a pivotal role in this movement we have created to serve the Hispanic millennial audience,” said McLaren, who launched Combate Americas in 2013 as a first-to-market venture that essentially combined his UFC pioneer experience with his storied background in television production.

“I am looking forward to this next chapter in my career that will allow me to focus on one of the last centers of growth in the U.S. economy – the emerging and exploding Hispanic demographic – through an incredible, first-to-market sports entertainment and media property that Campbell and his team have built with Combate Americas,” said Plumeri.

Prior to his role with First Data, Plumeri guided Willis Group Holdings for nearly 13 years to enormous value creation. He also served as President of Smith Barney, Vice Chairman of Travelers and Chairman and CEO of Primerica during his tenure with Citigroup.

As a philanthropist, Plumeri was named Humanitarian of the Year in 2006 after contributing the largest gift in history to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, to fund the construction of the New Jersey headquarters of the non-profit organization dedicated to fulfilling the wishes of children with life-threatening diseases.

Plumeri is also responsible for funding the creation of business scholarships, athletic scholarships and annual faculty excellence awards at his alma mater, The College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Va., where the baseball stadium, Plumeri Park, is named after his father. He also donated money to New York Law School to help create the Joe Plumeri Center for Social Justice and Economic Opportunity.

Combate Americas also recently announced a new company president in Alberto “El Presidente” Rodriguez, formerly Alberto Del Rio of the WWE, and a new television partnership that has its fight programming airing in over 135 million homes weekly on Azteca America in the U.S. and Mexico’s TV Azteca S.A.B. de C.V. (BMV: AZTECA; Latibex: XTZA), one of the two largest producers of Spanish-language television programming in the world.

For the first time in history, Combate Americas will head outside of the U.S. – to Mexico City, Mexico – with its live event series on Thursday, Jan. 19 when it will present a 10-bout fight card live on Azteca America and UFC FIGHT PASS®. The event will air the following evening, Friday, Jan. 20 on TV Azteca.

###

ABOUT COMBATE AMERICAS
Combate Americas, LLC. is the first U.S. Hispanic Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) sports franchise in history, designed to build Latino fighting champions and serve Hispanic fans, one of the world’s most avid groups of prize fighting enthusiasts. The Combate Americas franchise includes reality TV programming, live events and mobile programming. The company’s CEO, Campbell McLaren, is universally recognized as the co-founder/co-creator of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). New York Magazine described McLaren as “the marketing genius behind the UFC” and Yahoo! Sports proclaimed that he “knows more about the sport than just about anyone in it today.” With an unprecedented product and a blue-chip ownership and management team, Combate Americas is poised to break new ground and bring about a new era in world championship level MMA competition.




Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna to battle Eduardo Flores on Saturday, January 28th at the Claridge Hotel in Atlantic City


Atlantic City, NJ (January 11, 2017) – Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna will battle veteran Eduardo Flores eight-round junior middleweight bout on Saturday night, January 28th at the Claridge Hotel in Atlantic City.

The bout will headline a card promoted by Rising Promotions.

CEO of Rising Promotions Debra LaManna stated, “We are starting 2017 with a tremendous card and we plan on only doing bigger and better things for boxing this year.”

LaManna of Millville, New Jersey has a record of 21-2 with nine knockouts.

The 25 year-old is coming off a defeat to undefeated Dusty Hernandez Harrison in a thrilling bout that took place on September 15th in Philadelphia.

In that bout, LaManna fought a good fight and had solid moments throughout the hotly contested bout that was for the USBA Welterweight title.

LaManna is moving back up to the 154 pound division where LaManna is undefeated (7-0 between 148-154 pounds) in the division for which he turned professional in 2011.

LaManna won his first 16 bouts, where enjoyed wins over Ashanti Gibbs and Jamaal Davis.

After suffering his first professional defeat to undefeated middleweight prospect Antoine Douglas, LaManna ripped off five consecutive victories that was highlighted by by a 4th round stoppage over Kendal Mena (20-3).

“I’m looking forward to displaying my boxing skills against this rugged veteran,” said LaManna He’s been in the ring with a lot of good fighters and former world champions, but never been in there with me. I feel my height, youth and size will play a big role in this fight but it’s all about making adjustments and fighting the smartest fight possible to get the win.”

“My last fight, I took a L but that stands for “Lesson” and since that lesson, I’ve been training extremely hard and I’m very focus at this task at hand.”

Flores of Quito, Ecuador is a 52-fight veteran and sports a record of 25-24-3 with 15 knockouts.

The 30 year-old Flores is a 10 year professional, who has taken on the best fighters in the 135-154 pound divisions such as former world champions Carlos Baldomir, Diego Chaves & Kermit Cintron as well as 19 other undefeated opponents, for which Flores had three wins and a draw.

Flores is coming off a six-round unanimous decision defeat to undefeated Sammy Valentin (9-0) on November 18th in Kissimmee, Florida.

In the six-round co-feature, light heavyweight Chuck Mussachio (19-3-2, 5 KO’s) of Wildwood, New Jersey will fight Michael Mitchell (3-7-2, 1 KO) of Paterson, New Jersey.

Mitchell has faced terrific competition and has only been stopped once, and has fought four undefeated fighters.

Also scheduled to appear in a six-round bout will be:

Super Middleweight Gabriel Pham (6-1, 2 KO’s) of Pleasantville, NJ. takes on Jose Valderrama (5-17, 3 KO’s) of Manati, Puerto Rico.

John Bauza (5-0, 2 KO’s) of North Bergen, NJ will battle Tyrome Jones (4-0, 1 KO) of South Bend, Indiana in a battle of undefeated junior welterweights.

In four-round bouts:

Ernesto Perez of Vineland, NJ will make his pro debut against Courtney McCleave (2-5, 1 KO) of Concord, North Carolina in a junior middleweight bout.

Jamil Simmons of Pleasantville, NJ will make his pro debut against Tomas Romain (0-1) of Brooklyn, NY in a lightweight bout.

Bantamweight Dallas Holden of Atlantic City (1-0) will take on pro debuting Matthew Lyall of Pleasantville, NJ.

Quian Davis (4-0-2) of Mays Landing, New Jersey battles Demonte Cherry (1-2,1 KO) of North Carolina in a heavyweight bout.

Emmnuel Rodriguez of Quebradillias, Puerto Rico will make his pro debut against Weusi Johnson (1-2) of Wilmington, Delaware in a bantamweight bout.

Dan Murray (1-0) of Lanoka Harbor, New Jersey squares off with Nahir Albright (0-1) of Sicklerville, New Jersey in a junior welterweight bout.

Also scheduled to compete in four-round bouts will be junior welterweight Bryne Green (7-9-1, 3 KO’s) of Paulsboro, NJ & welterweight Yurik Mamedov (3-0, 1 KO) of Brooklyn, NY against opponents to be announced.

Tickets for this great evening of boxing are $125, $80 and $55 and can be purchased at www.RSPboxing.com




Several Match-ups Announced for Detroit Brawl on Sunday, January 22 in Detroit

Several match-ups have been announced for promoter Dmitriy Salita’s special Sunday edition of his “Detroit Brawl” series on January 22, 2017, at Masonic Temple in Detroit.

In the night’s eight-round main event, Detroit’s perennial welterweight gate keeper and fan favorite Lanardo “Pain Server” Tyner (30-10-2, 19 KOs) will face Nagykanizsa, Hungary’s Istvan Dernanecz (10-4, 7 KOs).

Although Tyner’s original opponent, Wesley Tucker, was forced to withdraw with a training injury, his willingness to trade with anyone means he’s never in a bad fight. 19-year-old Dernanecz has said he’s coming across the ocean to take a giant step up in pro career with a victory over Tyner.

In the co-main event, Detroit bantamweight action hero James Gordon Smith (11-0, 6 KOs) will take on Kiskunfelegyhaza, Hungary’s Szilveszter Ajtai (10-3-1, 5 KOs). Following in Tyner’s footsteps, Smith’s fights are becoming must-see affairs in the Motor City and this international match-up should further his growing reputation.

In one of the main supporting bouts, cruiserweight Alexey Zubov (13-1, 8 KOs), from Magnitogorsk, Russia, will face Budapest, Hungary’s Andras Csomor (18-14-1, 14 KOs).

Also seeing action will be former cruiserweight world title challenger “Hurricane” Junior Wright (15-2-1, 12 KOs) from Evanston, Illinois, making his heavyweight debut against Detroit’s Damon McCreary (15-6, 11 KOs) in an eight-rounder.

In a bantamweight four-rounder, undefeated bantamweight Jarico “Great Lakes King” O’Quinn (4-0, 3 KOs) will take on Chicago’s Angel Carvajal (2-5).

In a welterweight four, Detroit’s rejuvenated “Lightning” Larry Ventus (7-11-1, 3 KOs) will face Florida’s iron-jawed Jesus Lule (9-20-1, 1 KO).

Popular and undefeated super welterweight Ardreal Holmes (4-0, 2 KOs) of Flint, Michigan, is scheduled to fight Ohio’s Bryan Goldsby (3-1).

Match-ups featuring Toledo super middleweight DeAndre Ware (8-0, 6 KOs); undefeated Detroit heavyweight Marcus Carter (1-0, 1 KO); and undefeated Alabama super featherweight Dewayne Zeigler (5-0-1, 5 KOs) are yet to be announced.

Once again sponsored by the Greektown Casino Hotel, tickets for “Detroit Brawl” are priced at VIP $123, Box Seats are $80 and $60, Seating is $40, and $20. They are available at all Ticketmaster outlets and Ticketmaster.com.

On fight night, doors open at 4:00 pm and the fights begin at 5:00 pm. The Masonic Temple is located at 500 Temple Street in Detroit.

###

For more information on the “Detroit Brawl” or Salita Promotions, visit www.salitapromotions.com. Facebook and Twitter: @DetroitBrawl

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

About Greektown Casino Hotel
Your downtown playground, Greektown Casino Hotel is consistently voted Detroit’s Best Casino. Located right in the hub of the historic Greektown district it’s impossible to be any closer to the action. No matter what you want to play, Greektown Casino Hotel has your non-stop gaming action. From the newest slots and table games to live poker, Greektown Casino Hotel has 100,000 square feet of exciting, action-packed choices and so many thrilling ways to win!

Greektown Casino Hotel features a 30-story hotel with 400 stunning guestrooms and suites devoted to your comfort. And for your culinary needs, you can savor eclectic cuisine at one of their outstanding restaurants: Prism, Bistro 555 and The Market District.

For your special event or corporate gathering, Greektown Casino Hotel offers impeccable service in addition to a variety of exceptional spaces to help make your event an unforgettable experience.

For more information, visit them online at greektowncasino.com. Twitter:
@GreektownCasino.




Video: HBO Boxing After Dark: Vargas vs. Berchelt Preview




GH3 PROMOTIONS FIGHTERS LEROY DAVILA, KEENAN SMITH HIGHLIGHT NON-TELEVISED UNDERCARD ON FRIDAY, JAN. 20 AT BALLYS ATLANTIC CITY HOTEL AND CASINO


ATLANTIC CITY (Jan.10, 2017) — GH3 Promotions undefeated up-and-comers LeRoy Davila and Keenan Smith will head an impressive list of prospects that will be featured in non-televised action on Friday night, Jan. 20 at Ballys Atlantic City Hotel & Casino that will precede a tremendous quadrupleheader that will be televised live on ShoBox: The New Generation card on SHOWTIME®.

In the 12-round main event, undefeated WBA No. 3-ranked super bantamweight Adam Lopez (16-0-1, 8 KOs) will face the WBA’s No. 4-ranked Danny Roman (20-2-1, 7 KOs) in a title elimination bout.

In the co-feature, undefeated super middleweight Ronald Ellis (13-0-1, 1 NC, 10 KOs) will face off with Christopher Brooker (11-2, 5 KOs) in an eight-round 168-pound matchup of ShoBox veterans.

In another eight-round featured bout, former national amateur champion Kenneth Sims Jr. (10-0, 3 KOs) and Emmanuel Robles (15-1-1, 5 KOs) will clash in a matchup of promising, unbeaten super lightweights making their ShoBox debuts in their toughest assignments to date.

In the opening bout of the telecast, undefeated bantamweight Stephon Young (15-0-3, 6 KOs) takes on Elton Dharry (21-5-1, 14 KO’s) in an eight-round bout.

Davila (4-0, 2 KO’s) of New Brunswick, New Jersey will take on fellow undefeated Anthony Taylor (4-0, 1 KO) of Warren, Ohio in a six-round bantamweight bout.

Davila, a 2016 United States Olympic Alternate is beginning his second year as a professional and is coming off a 4-round unanimous decision over Damon Simon on Nov. 11 in Philadelphia.

Taylor, 25, has been a professional for two years, and is coming off a third-round stoppage over Jajuan Gills last July 23 in Youngstown, Ohio.

Smith, of Philadelphia, has a record of 9-0 with 3 knockouts, and will take on Marquis Hawthorne (4-5, 1 KO) of Waco, Texas in a welterweight bout scheduled for six-rounds.

The 26 year-old Smith is a seven-year professional. In recent bouts, he has stepped up the competition. He holds a second-round knockout over previously undefeated Lavell Hadley (2-0). In his last bout, Smith won an eight-round unanimous decision over Benjamin Whitaker (10-1-1) on Nov. 6, 2015 in Las Vegas, on ShoBox.

Hawthorne, 25, is a two-year pro and holds a win over previously undefeated Francisco Cruz (5-0). He will be looking to break a three-fight losing streak, with the latest being a four-round unanimous decision to undefeated Jeremy Nichols (6-0) on Sept. 30 in Las Vegas.

Also seeing action in a 6-round bout is local favorite Anthony “Juice” Young (14-2, 6 KO’s) of Atlantic City who will take on James Robinson (4-5-4, 1 KO) of Brooklyn, N.Y., in a welterweight scrap.

Former amateur standout, Darmani Rock (6-0, 4 KO’s) of Philadelphia will battle Solomon Maye (3-7-2, 3 KO’s) of New Haven, Connecticut in a six-round heavyweight bout.

In four-round bouts, Hafiz Montgomery (3-1, 2 KO’s) of Toms River, N.J. takes on Tracey Johnson (4-5-4) of Boston in a cruiserweight battle; Jeff Lentz (5-1, 1 KO) of Lanoka Harbor, N.J. will fight Jeff Souffrant (3-1, 1 KO) of Fort Lauderdale, Fla. in a welterweight bout.

Tickets for the show, which is promoted by GH3 Promotions, Kings Promotions in association with Thompson Boxing (the main event) and Bally’s Atlantic City Hotel and Casino, are $125, $100 $75 & $50 and can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com or calling 1-800-745-3000

Barry Tompkins will call the ShoBox action from ringside with Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

# # #

About ShoBox: The New GenerationSince its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 67 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Omar Figueroa, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.




Selina Barrios to Make Pro Debut Jan, 21 in San Antonio

SAN ANTONIO, TX (January 11, 2017) – Amateur standout, Selina “Aztec Queen” Barrios, sister of undefeated lightweight sensation, Mario Barrios (17-0, 9 KOs), is set to make her pro debut on January, 21, 2017. The fight will take place at the San Antonio Shrine Auditorium, on the “Famoso’s Night of Champions” card in San Antonio, TX, presented by former world champion, Carlos “El Famoso” Hernandez. Selina will face, ….. in a four-round bout.

Barrios, an amateur standout, has power in both hands. Her crowd-pleasing style was admired by many in the amateurs. As a teenager, Selina Barrios defeated the very talented Mikayla Meyer, who represented Team USA in 2016. Barrios wants the city of San Antonio to know they will now have a female pugilist to get behind. Look for Barrios to come out swinging.

“First off, I want to thank my family for all their support during my time away from boxing.” said an enthused Selina Barrios. “Everyone who’s seen me in the ring, knows I’m an aggressive fighter that throws a lot of power punches. I’m always going to be looking for the knockout. I’m very happy to be making my pro debut in San Antonio. I want to build my fan base one fight at a time. I’m inviting all boxing fans from San Antonio to come see me fight. I’m only 22-years old, so I have plenty of time to make my mark in this sport. I have dreams and ambitions of becoming a world champion. God willing, I’ll reach that goal.”

Tickets for “Famoso’s Night of Boxing”, priced $25, $40, $50, $80 and $120 are on sale now, and can be purchased by calling Famoso Productions at (210) 240-2071 or (210) 422-8787. For more information, visit www.famosoproductions.com. The San Antonio Shrine Auditorium is located at 901 N Loop 1604 W, San Antonio, TX. Doors open at 5:00 P.M., first bell at 7:30 P.M.




BURNS TO FACE INDONGO IN UNIFICATION BLOCKBUSTER


Ricky Burns will face unbeaten Namibian Julius Indongo for the WBA and IBF World Super-Lightweight titles in a massive unification clash at the SSE Hydro in Glasgow on April 15, live on Sky Sports.

Burns became a three-weight World champion when he won the WBA strap with an eighth-round stoppage of Michele di Rocco in his hometown last May and successfully defended his belt with a unanimous points victory over Kiryl Relikh in October while Indongo ripped the IBF title from Russian Eduard Troyanovsky with a 40 second first-round knockout in Moscow in December.

“When Julius Indongo knocked out Eduard Troyanovsky he was immediately an opponent I was interested in,” said Burns. “Indongo can clearly punch and that’s an impressive way to win a World title, especially in Russia. It was some shot he hit Troyanovsky with.

“It’s a huge fight in the division and the kind of fights I need to be involved in at this stage of my career. There were other names talked about but I wanted the toughest, most dangerous fight out there. Indongo with his two belts was that man.

“He is a big, tall, rangy, southpaw but bring it on – I have no fear of anyone and it is only the massive fights for me now.

“Fighting in Glasgow is special for me, the crowd at the SSE Hydro has been electric the last two occasions and I expect it to be no different this time round. Their support means the world to me, the crowd has always behind me and I want to put in a big performance for them again. The last card was really good with some top local talent and I’m excited to see who else is on this one.”

Indongo added: ?”It’s an absolute honour for me to fight Ricky, who I regard as an accomplished champion. I respect what he has achieved so far but I’m going to Scotland to rob him of his belt. I know it won’t be easy but I’m comforted by the fact that I have a good team and passionate Namibian fans, and I have every intention of making them smile and unifying the division on April 15.”

Tickets for April 15 go on Matchroom Fight Pass Pre-Sale at midday on Monday, January 23, priced £40, £60, £100 and £200 VIP.

Tickets go on general sale at midday on Tuesday, January 24 with tickets priced £40, £60, £100 available at www.thessehydro.com and £200 VIP exclusively at www.matchroomboxing.com.