NEW YORK (July 3, 2023) – Three Split-T Management fighters from the state of Ohio emerged victorious on Saturday night with wins in their home state at The Huntington Center in Toledo.

2020 United States Olympian Tiger Johnson remained undefeated with a eight-round unanimous decision over Jonathan Montrel in a junior welterweight bout.

In round three, the left eye of Montrel began to swell.

The eye continued to worsen as the doctor checked on it before round seven commenced. The right side of Montrel’s forehead became a bloody mess in round seven.

Johnson, 141.2 lbs of Cleveland, OH won by scores of 80-72 on all cards and is now 9-0. Montrel, 140.6 lbs of New Orleans is now 15-2.

Dante Benjamin Jr. remained undefeated by stopping Mirandy Zola in round one of their six-round light heavyweight bout.

In round one, Benjamin landed a big left hand that was followed by a right to the chin that put Zola on his back. Benjamin came forward and landed a big right that snapped Zola’s head back and the bout was stopped at 1:56.

Benjamin, 173.3 lbs of Cleveland is 7-0 with six knockouts. Zola, 173.9 lbs of Columbus, OH is 4-3..

DeAndre Ware won a six-round unanimous decision over DeCarlo Perez in a super middleweight bout.

Ware, 167.9 lbs of Toledo, OH won by scores of 59-55 twice and 58-56 and is now 16-4-2. Perez, 167.5 lbs of Atlantic City, NJ is 19-9-1.

Johnson and Benjamin are promoted by Top Rank.

The fights were streamed live on ESPN+.

Jared Anderson went the distance for the first time and won a 10-round unanimous decision over former IBF Heavyweight champion Charles Martin at The Huntington Center in Anderson’s hometown of Toledo, Ohio.

At the end of round three, Anderson dropped Martin by flinging a left from the southpaw stance that hit the top of Martin’s head. Anderson continued to pound away and rock Martin. In round five, Martin hurt Anderson with some hard left hands.

In round nine, the mouth of Martin began to bleed. Anderson was able to dominate the second half of the fight alternating from orthodox to southpaw, landing jabs and some solid punches to the jaw. Martin tried to make a last second stand as he landed a perfect left to the jaw that sent Anderson back, but time ran out.

Anderson landed 157 of 369 punches; Martin was 85 of 324.

Anderson, 243.4 lbs of Toledo, OH won by scores of 98-91 and 99-90 twice and is now 15-0. Martin, 259.5 lbs of St. Louis, MO is 29-4-1.

Anderson said, “It felt great. I had my team with me. I got my family with me. I got Toledo with me. They showed up and they’re in the building. They were with me the entire 10 rounds. I heard them all the way through. I’m grateful for my opponent. He took the fight on short notice. He came and performed really good. I think we put on a hell of a show for Toledo.

“I wanted to go the distance. It was my first time. I just wanted to make sure that I could go the distance and especially be able to withstand power the whole 10 rounds. He had power until the last round, and I was happy to get the rounds in.

“I think I took his best shots very well. I don’t think there was a time in the fight where I looked unsteady or where I couldn’t hold my own. Did feel like he got me with a good shot and stunned me? No. But do I feel like he got me with a good shot and made me aware? Yes, so I had to readjust and get back to the game plan.”

Martin said, “I took the fight on 11 days’ notice. I did the best I could. He’s a real champion. He’ll be making his way to the top soon. I’m proud of him.

“He’s really good. He’s a crafty boxer. Usually, when I catch somebody and hurt them, I can finish them. If they don’t fall, usually I can follow up and put them away. But he is like a little middleweight. He is crafty. He was able to get out even when he was rocked. He was able to maneuver and get out the way. He’s going to be a champion.

Makhmudov Stops Akepejiori in 2

In a battle of heavyweight sluggers, Arslenbek Makhmudov stopped Raphael Akepejiori in round two of their 10-round bout.

In round one, Makhmudov came out fast and dropped Akepejiori with a perfect right uppercut. At the end of the round, Makhmudov dropped Akepejiori again with a left hook while Akepejiori’s right hand was caught in the ropes. In round two, Makhmudov landed several devastating uppercuts that wobbled Akepejiori and then sent up down with a hard right. Akepejiori got to his feet, but the fight was waved of at 1:43.

Makhmudov, 263.4 lbs of Montreal, CAN is now 17-0 with 16 knockouts. Akepejiori, 255.5 lbs of Lagos, NIG is 15-1.

Abdullah Mason stopped Alex de Oliveira in round two of their six-round lightweight bout.

In round two, Mason landed three fast and hard left hands that put de Oliveira down and the fight was stopped at 2:18.

Mason, 135.2 lbs of Cleveland is 9-0 with eight knockouts. de Oliveira, 135.8 lbs of Sao Paulo, BRA is now 20-5.

Mason said, “It was amazing. I felt amazing. I felt great in this camp. Right now, there is no cap on my ceiling. I’m just focused, and I’m going hard.”

2020 United State Olympian Tiger Johnson remained undefeated with a eight-round unanimous decision over Jonathan Montrel in a junior welterweight bout.

In round three, the left eye of Montrel began to swell.

The eye continued to worsen as the doctor checked on it before round seven commenced. The right side of Montrel’s forehead became a bloody mess in round seven.

Johnson, 141.2 lbs of Cleveland, OH won by scores of 80-72 on all cards and is now 9-0. Montrel, 140.6 lbs of New Orleans is now 15-2.

Dante Benjamin Jr. remained undefeated by stopping Mirandy Zola in round one of their six-round light heavyweight bout.

In round one, Benjamin landed a big left hand that was followed by a right to the chin that put Zola on his back. Benjamin came forward and landed a big right that snapped Zola’s head back and the bout was stopped at 1:56.

Benjamin, 173.3 lbs of Cleveland is 7-0 with six knockouts. Zola, 173.9 lbs of Columbus, OH is 4-3.

DeAndre Ware won a six-round unanimous decision over DeCarlo Perez in a super middleweight bout.

Ware, 167.9 lbs of Toledo, OH won by scores of 59-55 twice and 58-56 and is now 16-4-2. Perez, 167.5 lbs of Atlantic City, NJ is 19-9-1,

Rance Ward scored a six-round majority decision over previously undefeated Husan Al Mashhadi in a junior middleweight bout.

Ward, 153.6 lbs of Houma, LA won by scores of 59-55, 58-56 and 57-57 and is now 8-5-1. Al Mashhadi, 151.2 lbs od Dearborn Heights, MI is 6-1.

Tyler McCreary came back after a two-year layoff with a six-round unanimous decision over Deivi Julio in a junior lightweight bout.

In round two, Julio was docked a point for holding.

McCreary, 131 lbs of Toledo, OH won by scores of 59-54 and 57-56 twice and is now 18-2-1. Julio, 130.9 lbs of Monteria, COL is 26-14.

Nicklaus Flaz upset previously undefeated Jahi Tucker via eight-round majority decision in a junior middleweight bout,

Flaz was cut on his right eyebrow in the final round.

Flaz, 151.2 lbs of Bayamon, PR won by scores of 78-74, 77-75 and 76-76 and is now 11-2. Tucker, 151.8 lbs of Deer Park, NY is 10-1.

Dalton Smith scored an explosive seventh round stoppage over Sam Maxwell in a 12-round super ligh1tweight fight in Sheffield, England.

In round seven, Smith uncorked a perfect right to the side of the head that sent Maxwell down on his back with his right leg folded underneath and the fight was stopped mid-count at 1:34.

Smith, 139.4 lbs of Sheffield is 15-0 with 11 knockouts. Maxwell, 139.4 lbs of Liverpool, ENF is 17-2.

Pat McCormack remained undefeated with a stoppage of Tony Dixon after round four of their 10-round super welterweight bout.

McCormack landed a booming right on the jaw that put Dix on his back just before the bell rang for the end of round four. The towel was thrown in from Dixon’s corner in between rounds.

McCormack, 150.2 lbs of Washington, ENG is 5-0 with four knockouts. Dixon, 148.7 lbs of Mountain Ash, WAL is 14-5.

Hopey Price stopped James Beech Jr. after round seven of their 10-round featherweight bout.

Price beat down Beech until the fight was stopped in the corner following the seventh frame.

Price, 125.5 lbs of Leeds, ENG is 11-0 with four knockouts. Beech, 125.2 lbs of Bloxwich, ENG is 15-5.

Junaid Bostan went the distance for the first time, but was able to win a eight-round decision over Ryan Amos in a fight between undefeated junior middleweights.

Bostan, 155.4 lbs of Rotherham, ENG won by a 79-73 score and is now 6-0. Amos, 155 lbs of Nottingham, ENG is 10-1-1.

In a fight featuring undefeated lightweights, Lewis Sylvester won a razor-thin 10-round unanimous decision over Adam Cope.

Sylvester, 134.3 lbs of Hill. ENG won by scores do 96-94 twice and 96-95 and is now 12-0. Cope, 133.9 lbs of Hartlepool, ENG is 7-1.

In round eight, Sylvester had a little swelling under his left eye.

Beatriz Ferreira remained undefeated with a eight-round decision over Karla Ramos Zamora in a super featherweight fight.

In round eight, Zamora was bleeding from her mouth.

Ferreira, 132 lbs of Sao Paulo, BRA won by a 8-72 score and is now 3-0. Zamora, 130.4 lbs of Chimalhuacan, MEX is 10-10-1.

In a fight between undefeated super bantamweights, Nico Leivers won a six-round decision over Alberto Motos.

Leivers, 123.1 lbs of Mansfield, ENG won by a 59-55 score and is now 4-0-1. Matos, 121.1 lbs of Madrid, SPA is 4-1.

Cory O’Regan remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Jordan Ellison in a lightweight contest.

O’Regan, 137.5 lbs of Hackmondwike, ENG won by a 60-54 score and is now 10-0. Ellison, 138.8 lbs of Seaham, ENG was fighting for the 65th time.

NEW YORK (July 1, 2023) – Three Split-T Management fighters will be in action in their native Ohio as Tiger Johnson, Dante Benjamin Jr. and DeAndre Ware will fight at the Huntington Center on ESPN+.

Earlier in the day, Kandi Wyatt will make her third attempt at a world title as she takes on Natasha Jonas for the IBF Welterweight title in Manchester, England (ESPN+).

Johnson will take Jonathan Montrel in an eight-round welterweight bout.

Johnson, the 24 Year-old, 2020 United States Olympian is 8-0 with five knockouts is starting to appear on some top prospect lists. Johnson already has wins over Xaver Madrid (3-0), Esteban Garcia (15-1), Mike Ohan Jr. (16-1) and his last bout when he defeated Alfonso Olvera on April 1st in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Montrel of New Orleans is 15-1 with 10 knockouts. The 33 year-old Montrel has won two in a row, which includes a fourth round stoppage over Aristides Perez on January 14th in Cartagena, Colombia on January 14th.

Johnson was 141.2 lbs. Montrel weighed 140.6

Dante Benjamin Jr. will square off with Mirady Zola in a six-round heavyweight bout.

Benjamin, 21 years-old of Cleveland already has four wins over undefeated opponents in Henron Rendon (2-0), Kevin Johnson (2-0), Corey Thompson (4-0) and Emanuel Austin (6-0). Benjamin stopped Jasper McCargo in two rounds on April 1st in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Zola of Canal Winchester, Ohio is 4-2 with one knockout. Zola is capable as he has already defeated undefeated foes James Quiter (4-0-1) as well as Shaman Baxter (1-0) on January 21st in Newark, Ohio.

Benjamin checked in at 173.3 lbs. Zola was 173.9.

The Toledo-based Ware will fight veteran DeCarlo Perez in a six-round super middleweight bout.

Ware is 15-4-2 with nine knockouts. The 35 year-old has never backed down from a challenge and has had his hand raised over Derrick Adkins (5-1-1), Enrique Collazo (11-0-1) and Ronald Ellis (16-0-2). Ware is coming off a loss to Christian Mbilli on September 9, 2022 in Montreal.

Perez of Atlantic City, New Jersey is 19-8-1 with six knockouts. The 32 year-old Perez has wins over Shamone Alvarez (21-5), Donte Moore (8-0-2), Jamar Freeman (9-1-2), Marcus Willis (13-3-2), Tyrone Brunson (22-2-1), Jessie Nicklow (24-5-3), Jose Ubaldo Cabrera (23-0) and Lanell Bellows (16-1-1). Perez is coming off a loss to Frederic Julan on February 23rd in New York.

Ware weighed in at 167.9 lbs. Perez was 167.5.

Johnson and Benjamin are promoted by Top Rank. The three fights will be streamed on ESPN+ at 6:15 PM ET.

Johnson and Benjamin photos by Mikey Williams / Top Rank via Getty Images.

In Manchester, England, Kandi Wyatt will make her third attempt at a world title when she takes on Natasha Jonas for the IBF Welterweight title.

Wyatt of Calgary, Canada is 11-4 with three knockouts. Wyatt has a win over undefeated Dallia Velazquez (5-0) and her last bout when she defeated Kirstie Bevington on March 10th in Wolverhampton, England. Wyatt lost to Kali Reis and Jessica McCaskill in her two previous attempts at world titles.

Jonas of Liverpool, England is 13-2-1 with eight knockouts. The 2016 Olympian won the WBO Super Welterweight title with a second round stoppage over Chris Namus (25-6). Jonas added the WBC belt with a unanimous decision over Patricia Benghult (15-0). In her last bout, Jonas added the the IBF title with a 10-round unanimous decision over Marie Eve DiCaire (18-1) on November 12, 2022 in Manchester, England.

Wyatt weighed 146 lbs. Jonas was 146.5 lbs.

The fight will be streamed live on ESPN+ at 2 PM ET

10 x 2 mins WBC, WBA, IBF and WBO World Super-Middleweight Championship @12st

Savannah Marshall 11st 13lbs 

Franchon Crews-Dezurn 11st 13lbs 5oz 

10 x 2 mins Vacant IBF World Welterweight Championship @ 10st 7lbs  

Natasha Jonas 10st 6lbs 5oz

Kandi Wyatt 10st 6lbs

8 x 3 mins Light-Heavyweight Contest @12st 9lbs

Ben Whittaker 12st 6lbs 5oz 

Vladimir Belujsky 12st 7lbs 5oz

10 x 3 mins Super-Middleweight Contest @12st 2lbs

Callum Simpson 12st 1lb 

Boris Crighton 11st 13lb 

10 x 3 mins Vacant Commonwealth Silver Super-Middleweight Championship @ 12st

Zak Chelli 11st 12lbs 5oz 

Mark Jeffers 11st 13lb 5oz

6 x 2 mins Super-Welterweight Contest @11st 

April Hunter 10st 13lbs

Kirstie Bavington 10st 9lbs 5oz

4 x 3 mins Heavyweight Contest

Will Howe 17st 13lb 

Jake Darnell 17st 10lb 5oz

 •  Jared Anderson 243.4 lbs. vs. Charles Martin 250.5 lbs
(Heavyweight — 10 Rounds)

   •   Abdullah Mason 135.2 lbs vs. Alex de Oliveira 135.8 lbs
(Lightweight — 6 Rounds)

   •   Arslanbek Makhmudov 263.4 lbs vs. Raphael Akpejiori 255.5 lbs
(Heavyweight — 10 Rounds )

(ESPN+, 6:15 p.m. ET/3:15 p.m. PT)

•    Tiger Johnson141.2 lbs  vs. Jonathan Montrel 140.6 lbs 
 (Junior Welterweight — 8 Rounds)

•  Dante Benjamin Jr. 173.3 lbs  vs. Mirady Zola 173.9 lbs 
 (Light Heavyweight — 6 Rounds)

•  DeAndre Ware 167.9 lbs vs. Decarlo Perez 167.5 lbs
 (Super Middleweight — 6 Rounds)

•   Husam Al Mashhadi 151.2 lbs vs. Rance Ward 153.6 lbs
 (Junior Middleweight — 6 Rounds)

• Tyler McCreary 131 lbs vs. Deivi Julio 130.9 lbs
 (Junior Lightweight — 6 Rounds)

•   Jahi Tucker 151.8 lbs  vs. Nicklaus Flaz 151.3 lbs
 (Junior Middleweight — 8 Rounds)

June 29, 2023 – Four of six fighters will make their return to SHOBOX: The New Generation to further build a name for themselves as hard-hitting prospect and amateur standout Jordan White (14-1, 10 KOs) and undefeated ex-Navy man Eridson Garcia (17-0, 11 KOs) square off in a 10-round super featherweight main event on Friday, August 4 at 9 p.m. ET/PT live on SHOWTIME from Wind Creek Event Center in Bethlehem, Pa.

The exciting tripleheader includes fighters with a combined record of 75-2-2 and 49 knockouts all stepping up and trying to come into their own as top prospects. Philadelphia’s undefeated prospect Paul Kroll (10-0-1, 6 KOs) will mix it up with fellow SHOBOX^® alum Guido Schramm (16-1-1, 9 KOs) of Argentina in the eight-round super welterweight co-feature. The telecast opener pits two up-and-coming unbeaten Pennsylvania fighters with Reading’s Julian Gonzalez (10-0-1, 9 KOs) and Pittsburgh’s Johnny Spell (8-0, 4 KOs) facing off in an eight-round super featherweight battle. White and Gonzalez are also SHOBOX returnees.

It’s the second time that SHOBOX will travel to Wind Creek Event Center this year under promoter Marshall Kauffman’s King’s Promotions.

“SHOBOX is a developmental series that prides itself on uncovering today’s top prospects who are looking to become tomorrow’s world champions,” said Gordon Hall, executive producer for SHOBOX: The New Generation. “The August 4^th card includes four returning fighters who we feel are all worth a second look. The ceiling is high for these young and talented fighters trying to raise their profiles on SHOBOX. Credit to the returning fighters for continuing to seek out the toughest challenges and good luck to the fighters experiencing SHOBOX for the first time.”

Here is more on each of the three bouts:

White vs. Garcia – 10-Round Super Featherweight Main Event

The Washington, D.C. native White, 25, was a former No. 1-ranked amateur, amassing a 145-16 record with wins over contenders Brandun Lee and Vergil Ortiz, Jr. He was teammates with future world champions Devin Haney and Shakur Stevenson on the Junior National travel squad, competing in the Junior World Championships in Kiev, Ukraine in 2013. White turned professional at 18, winning his first four bouts, three by knockout before losing a decision to fellow undefeated foe Adam Lopez. White has since bounced back by winning 10 fights in a row, including a seventh-round TKO over previously unbeaten prospect Ronaldo Solis and an impressive sixth-round TKO over previously undefeated Misael Lopez (11-1, 5 KOs) in his SHOBOX debut in March of 2021.

“This is my time, but Garcia is coming into our territory,” White said. “He is another in front of me on the way to where I need to be. A win over Garcia gets me ranked high in the WBC and another big opportunity on SHOWTIME to be able to showcase all my skills. I will show the world what they have been missing.”

The Dominican Republic native Garcia started boxing at 14 and is a former highly decorated amateur. Currently living and training in Houston, the southpaw Garcia, 29, has sparred with former Olympian and unified champion Stevenson and up-and-coming SHOBOX alum Giovanni Marquez. Garcia was 270-30 and won multiple medals in national events in the early 2010s in the amateurs. From 2012-2017, Garcia served in the Dominican Republic Navy and won two second-place medals in the Military Games. He turned professional in 2017 and came to the United States in 2020 after seven pro bouts. Garcia won a 10-round unanimous decision over Armando Frausto two years ago to capture the vacant North American Boxing Federation (NABF) Super Featherweight Championship.

“I feel great about this fight on August 4,” Garcia said. “I have been watching videos on White, and he looks like a good fighter. I feel extremely grateful, happy and excited about fighting on SHOWTIME. This is the biggest fight of my career. This is a stepping-stone to enhance my career, and it’s a great opportunity to show everybody what a great fighter I am.”

Kroll vs. Schramm – Eight-Round Super Welterweight Bout

Representing the fighting city of Philadelphia, Kroll is a five-year pro who already owns impressive wins over highly regarded SHOBOX alum Shinard Bunch and previously undefeated Philadelphian southpaw Mark Dawson. In his SHOBOX debut in February of 2022, Kroll and Marquis Taylor fought to a spirited split draw. Kroll also owns a 10-round victory over Lucas Santamaria as he overcame a knockdown in the second round to earn the unanimous decision. A highly touted amateur with a record of 123-17, Kroll won the U.S. Olympic Boxing Trials in 2015 and has sparred with standout former champions Julian Williams, Shawn Porter and Danny Garcia.

“It’s another good opportunity for me fighting on SHOBOX,” Kroll said. “This time I will capitalize on it and look like I am supposed to. This is an opportunity to get bigger and better fights. I love fighting close to home and in front of my family, fans and friends. I get a lot of love from the people that want to see me win. I am looking to win a world title in under 15 fights and become unified in about 20-25 fights.” 

The 27-year-old Schramm (16-1-1, 9 KOs) is promoted by Sampson Lewkowicz’s Sampson Boxing. Known as a pressure fighter who comes forward, Schramm started boxing late at 17 and finished his amateur career with a record of 45-4 and won six amateur titles in Argentina. For the past three years, Schramm has trained in Los Angeles under Lionel Lara, and previously trained alongside former world champion Brian Castaño. In his last fight on SHOBOX in April, Schramm won a majority decision over previously unbeaten Jahyae Brown (13-1, 9 KOs) coming on strong in the later stages of the fight with his aggressive style.

“I am working hard on a daily basis for this fight on August 4, and hopefully I will get the victory and impress the viewers at home and fans in attendance,” Schramm said. “Being on SHOBOX, I want to show the world what I have. I have a lot to prove still, and I want to show why I’m going to be the next Argentinian world champion.”

Gonzalez vs. Spell – Eight-Round Super Featherweight Bout

Gonzalez, from Reading, Pa., just over 40 miles from Bethlehem, will feel right at home on August 4. The 21-year-old has fought three times already at Wind Creek Event Center in his young career, scoring first and second-round stoppages before a fourth-round TKO in his SHOBOX debut against Rosalindo Morales, his toughest opponent to date, in January. Gonzalez showed his power punch early dropping Morales in the first round and halting him with a stiff right hand to all but end the contest in the opening seconds of the fourth round. Gonzalez fought five times in 2021, the year he turned pro. The lone blemish on Gonzalez’s record is a six-round draw against Cuban prospect Ivan Jimenez. Going by the ring moniker “Gifted,” Gonzalez has sparred with Philadelphia’s unified 122-pound world champion Stephen Fulton Jr.

“We are back on SHOWTIME and back on the big stage,” Gonzalez said. “I don’t know much about Spell. I know he is an undefeated fighter and now I have to take another undefeated guy from Pittsburgh out. My profile went up with a knockout on SHOBOX but that does not go to my head – that can mess with you. This is just another person that is in my way.”

The unbeaten 27-year-old Spell from Pittsburgh is trained by his father Johnny Spell, Jr., a former professional fighter. Spell has been a regular in camp with multiple world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis and has sparred with world-ranked super bantamweight (WBA No. 5) Oleh Dovhun. He last fought in March when he decisioned Antonio Dunton El Jr. at Wind Creek Events Center over six rounds.

“I am ready for this and know it’s a big fight with another good fighter,” Spell said. “This will show who is built for the next level. The story line is that I am the underdog. This is my first TV fight and I am excited. I have seen him fight two times. He fought my friend from my city of Pittsburgh [Rosalindo Morales] and I feel like he is a good fighter who I have seen make a couple mistakes that I know I can capitalize on. Fighting on SHOBOX is a big opportunity for my city, as not many from Pittsburgh have fought on SHOWTIME. A win will put my career on the next level.”

International Boxing Hall of Famer Barry Tompkins calls the blow-by-blow action for SHOBOX with fellow Hall of Famer Steve Farhood joining the team remotely as the unofficial scorer. Former world champion Raul Marquez and veteran combat sports reporter and MORNING KOMBAT co-host Brian Campbell will serve as ringside expert analysts. The executive producer of SHOBOX: The New Generation is Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

# # #

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports

About SHOBOX: The New Generation

Since 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 89 fighters who have appeared on SHOBOX and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Tyson Fury, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more. 

JOE JOYCE WAS the talk of the tower when he took centre stage at the HQ of Talksport on Thursday to launch the build-up for his high-stakes rematch with Zhilei Zhang at the OVO Arena, Wembley on 23 September, live on TNT Sports.

Tickets for Zhang vs Joyce II go on sale at midday today (Friday 30 June) from AXS.com.

The ‘Big Juggernaut’ will be attempting to take back the WBO Interim world heavyweight title he surrendered to ‘Big Bang Zhang’ back in March when a severe swelling to his right eye rendered him unable to continue in the view of referee Howard Foster.

Hence the return match being tagged ‘An eye for an eye’.

Joyce, 37, teamed up with his Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren at the colossal News Building on London Bridge Street in SE1, where the wheels for the Wembley heavyweight spectacular were set in motion.

“I’ve had time to rebuild, relax, let my hair down a little and reflect on what went down and what I need to do to get back on the horse and ride into the sunset!” said Joyce, who now holds a record of 15-1 (14 KOs) up against that of Zhang, 25-1-1 (20).

“It is back to the drawing board and little improvements on things, nitpicking on bits I need to get right for this next camp coming. I think, watching it back and seeing the shots thrown and landed and stuff, it was terrible for me to experience that, but it is all a learning curve.

“I have taken losses in the amateurs and came back and won a silver medal – if not, the gold – and I can do it again in the pros. I’ve got the experience and the drive.

“I don’t want to take the long route to get back for the title, all I’ve got to do is beat him and I am back in line for a mandatory shot.

“That is important to me and I want to be a world champion and I want to deliver on my dreams, goals and aspirations. That is why I am here.

“I want to be in big fights and this is a massive fight. You think fights are going to happen and they don’t, but this fight is definitely going to happen.”

Promoter Frank Warren revealed that Joyce gave no consideration to potentially forfeiting his rematch to enable Zhang to challenge WBC king Tyson Fury.

“When we first made the fight Joe was champion, with Zhilei at No.2, so Joe went straight to the guy who was his immediate challenger with no messing about,” added Warren.

“We did put a rematch clause in there and, after the fight, we weren’t sure if Joe was going to be ready because he obviously sustained quite a bad eye injury, the reason why the doctor stopped the fight. So we were talking about Zhang fighting Tyson, but Joe said no, he didn’t want anyone in the middle and wanted the rematch.

“That tells you all you need to know about Joe Joyce. Straight in there, nobody else is getting in-between, ‘I’m in, I want to win my title back’.

“That was his prerogative, he insisted on it and we delivered it for him.

“It is now up to Joe. He is a sensible guy and one of the best people I have worked with in boxing, a nice person with a great team. He knows what he’s got to do and I think he has got the capability to win his title back.

“If he does that he becomes mandatory for the WBO version of the title and whoever is holding that after the fight between Usyk and Daniel Dubois, which takes place in August.”

Tickets to see the heavyweight clash between Zhilei Zhang and Joe Joyce at the OVO Arena, Wembley on Saturday 23 September, go on general sale at midday today (Friday 30 June) from AXS.com.

From 18th July, TNT Sports will be the new name for BT Sport.

TOLEDO, Ohio (June 29, 2023) — Toledo’s knockout king is ready to shine in his hometown Saturday evening.

Jared “The Real Big Baby” Anderson (14-0, 14 KOs) will fight former world champion “Prince” Charles Martin (29-3-1, 26 KOs) in the 10-round main event at Toledo’s Huntington Center. 

In the 10-round heavyweight co-feature, Montreal-based wrecking ball Arslanbek Makhmudov (16-0, 15 KOs) takes on Nigeria’s Raphael Akpejiori (15-0, 14 KOs).

Anderson-Martin and Makhmudov-Akpejiori will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. In a special feature just before the main event, lightweight phenom Abdullah Mason (8-0, 7 KOs) will take on Alex de Oliveira (20-4, 14 KOs) in a six-rounder.

The ESPN+-streamed undercard (6:15 p.m ET/3:15 p.m. PT) will feature Toledo natives DeAndre Ware and Tyler McCreary.

Ware (15-4-2, 9 KOs) returns to the ring against Decarlo Perez (19-8-1, 6 KOs) in a six-round super middleweight tilt, while McCreary (17-2-1, 8 KOs) takes on veteran Deivi Julio (26-13, 16 KOs) in a six-round junior lightweight battle.

Junior welterweight standout Tiger Johnson (8-0, 5 KOs) will face Jonathan Montrel (15-1, 10 KOs) in an eight-round bout, and light heavyweight prospect Dante Benjamin Jr. (6-0, 4 KOs) will meet Mirady Zola (4-2, 1 KO) in a six-round clash.

Junior middleweight prospect Husam Al Mashhadi (6-0, 5 KOs), the fighting pride of Dearborn Heights, Michigan, fights the durable Rance Ward (7-5-1, 2 KOs) in a six-rounder.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Warriors Boxing, tickets are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com.

At Thursday’s press conference, this is what the fighters had to say.

Jared Anderson
 
“This is super special. I’m super excited. I’m the talk of the town. It’s a new feeling. I’m happy to be here. I’m happy to embrace it. I’m happy to be an inspiration for the kids.”
 
“I come prepared for anything and everything. Luckily, he is still a southpaw. I think that was the biggest reason that we chose him after the change. He’s also a bigger name. He is a former world champion. He has fought a few world titleholders as well.”
 
“I’m prepared for everything. It didn’t throw a monkey wrench in the plan, but it definitely made us go back to the drawing board, look at the tapes, and come back with a plan.”
 
“My toughest fight outside the ring is life because it throws curveballs at you that you just don’t expect sometimes. I think I’ve been through a lot in my 23 years, and I think I’ve handled it well.”

Charles Martin
 
“I was happy when I got the call. I had been putting in a lot of work, so I was happy that the hard work was finally paying off. I’ve dedicated myself fully. I leave no stones unturned. You can’t do that in this game.”
 
“Surprisingly, I won my national championship here in Toledo, Ohio before I turned professional. So, I’m kind of just coming back and reliving the experience. It’s a good thing.”
 
“I’m up for the challenge. He’s a big, strong, young lion. And I’m here.”

Arslanbek Makhmudov
 
“Camp was good. Everything was great. I just can’t wait for it to be Saturday so I can perform. Montreal has been good for me. It’s a comfortable place for my family, and it’s comfortable for my training.”
 
“I came here to compete against the best and become the champion of the world. That’s my goal, my target and my dream. That’s why I started boxing when I was nine years old. I have a lot of experience as an amateur and that helps me as a professional.”

Raphael Akpejiori
 
“I came here on a basketball scholarship from Nigeria. I was one of those kids who did everything they could to make life better for myself and my family. I played basketball for four years, and I played football until grad school. I got my master’s degree. I was picked up by the Miami Dolphins. I didn’t make the final cut, so I started boxing. And then I fell in love with the sport.”
 
“I met up with very good people. They say that every time a student wants to learn, a teacher magically appears. My coach is the ‘Road Warrior’ himself, Glen Johnson, and he took me to another level. All my coaches have helped take me to another level, and I’m excited to be here.”
 
“This is the best guy I will have faced. But to be a champion, you have to go through some fire. And I have put myself in line to go through that fire. All I have to do is listen to the ‘Road Warrior’ and do everything we’ve done in camp.”
 
Tiger Johnson

“I’m really excited. Everyone’s about to see what Ohio is made of. For as long as boxing has been around, Ohio has always had legends. So, we’re about to put on a show. In every camp, we always go back to the fundamentals. Everyone will see my improvement on Saturday night.”

Dante Benjamin Jr.
 
“I love training. It’s like a family at the gym. I have a lot of fun. This past camp has been fun because my friends have been training with me. They push me. So, it feels good.”

Abdullah Mason
 
“My family keeps me focused inside the gym. We all share the same goal, which is to become a world champion. So, we’ll keep working towards that, and eventually it’s going to come.”

Jahi Tucker
 
“Saturday night will be the same old story: domination. In my last fight {against Nikoloz Sekhniashvili}, I wanted to show everything I’ve learned. It helped me get to that level. That last fight just added on to the experience that I’m going to take to championship fights.”

DeAndre Ware
 
“It’s been my dream to fight at the Huntington Center. Jared made this possible, and I’m just looking forward to it. We’re going to display our talent for the city.”

Husam Al Mashhadi
 
“This means a lot to my family. Everybody at home is really excited for me. I’m very excited. Toledo is like my backyard, so I’m looking forward to seeing all the fans come out from Michigan.” 

Tyler McCreary
 
“It feels good to be here. I’ve been working really hard. I appreciate Jared for coming back home. It’s a good feeling to be back in action.”

Saturday, July 1

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

Jared Anderson vs. Charles Martin, 10 rounds, Heavyweights 

Arslanbek Makhmudov vs. Raphael Akpejiori, 10 rounds, Heavyweights 

 
ESPN+ (6:15 p.m. ET/3:15 p.m. PT)

Tiger Johnson vs. Jonathan Montrel, 8 rounds, Junior Welterweights

Jahi Tucker vs. Nicklaus Flaz, 8 rounds, Junior Middleweights

Manchester, United Kingdom (June 29, 2023) With a lifetime of achievements defying the naysayers, Undisputed Super Middleweight World Champion Franchon Crews-Dezurn is experiencing a week like no other.

The ‘Heavy Hitting Diva’ started the week with her highly anticipated debut single ‘Secret Place’ entering the lauded Music Week Commercial Club Charts at #30. The dynamic dance track produced by songwriter C-Rod at Miami’s renowned Criteria Recording Studios has quickly ascended up the charts to currently sit at #19. The single, executive produced by Crews-Dezurn’s manager and CEO of Patriak Records, Peter Kahn, can be heard here.  Patriak Records will also release Crews-Dezurn’ debut album in early 2024. (Kahn was voted the 2022 Boxing Manager of the Year by the Boxing Writers Association of America).

This Saturday, July 1, Crews-Dezurn, (8-1, 2 KOs), caps off her extraordinary week by defending her Undisputed Super Middleweight World Titles against #1 ranked contender Savannah Marshall, (12-1, 10 KOs), at the famed AO Arena in Manchester, England. The fight will be broadcast in the United States on ESPN+ (2:30 p.m. ET). A remarkable fight week feature by Michael Rothstein for ESPN can be viewed here.

Franchon’s musical journey began at 17 years old, appearing on American Idol. Despite being told by Simon Cowell that, “You can’t be good at everything”, Crews-Dezurn has made it her mission to prove him wrong. Having already conquered the world of boxing and accomplished feats unparalleled in the sport’s history, she now sets her sights on fulfilling her lifelong dream as a musical artist. Hailing from Virginia, Crews-Dezurn’s musical influences span various genres, providing her with a versatile and dynamic foundation for her artistic expression

HEAVYWEIGHT GIANTS Zhilei Zhang and Joe Joyce are all set for a highly anticipated rematch at the OVO Arena, Wembley on Saturday 23 September, live on TNT Sports.

Tickets go on general sale at midday on Friday 30 June (tomorrow) from AXS.com.

Big Bang Zhang and Juggernaut Joyce first collided in mid-April at the Copper Box Arena, where it was Zhang who left the venue in possession of the WBO Interim Heavyweight World Championship strap.

Referee Howard Foster stopped the fight in the sixth round due to the heavy swelling around the right eye of defending champion Joyce.

The Chinese hero Zhang lived up to his stage name in Stratford, ending the unbeaten professional record of the fellow Olympic silver medallist.

New York-based Zhang, 25-1-1 (20 KOs), turned in a career-best performance in London to elevate himself into challenging the elite band of heavyweights, but first he must once again repel the powerful advances of Joyce, 15-1 (14 KOs), who will be determined to regain his lost property and place himself back at the top of the WBO rankings.

“I created history last time,” said Zhang. “And I believe the best way to inherit history is to create new ones. I look at the rematch as if it was a new fight; I look at Joe Joyce as if I never fought him before. I started from zero and this is the new self.”

“I’m coming back to take back what’s mine,” declared Joyce. “September 2nd I am leaving everything in that ring. No compromises. No underestimating my opponent. Nothing, but a win.

“Last time out I lost my undefeated professional record. It was hard to take. But after the dust settled, all that will do is make me better. I’ve learned lessons. I’m ready. And I am coming for everything.”

“This is a fight with high stakes written all over it,” stated promoter Frank Warren. “The first fight in April was the best heavyweight fight made this year and I am expecting more of the same at the OVO Arena on September 23.

“Joe will acknowledge that Zhilei did a number on him at the Copper Box and he has a lot to work on to put it right. But he knows what he has got to do, and his immediate future depends on him regaining his position as WBO Interim world champion.

“Thankfully, for Joe’s sake, the rotation system for mandatory challenges with the governing bodies means the WBO contender against the unified champion has yet to be called, so victory in September will put Joe right back in the frame to fight whoever emerges victorious out of the current champion Oleksandr Usyk and his next challenger, Daniel Dubois.

“This is why the stakes are so incredibly high for both fighters and I hope and expect that Wembley will be packed to the rafters for such a significant heavyweight match.”

Tickets to see the heavyweight clash between Zhilei Zhang and Joe Joyce at the OVO Arena, Wembley on Saturday 23 September, go on general sale at midday on Friday 30 June from AXS.com.

From 18th July, TNT Sports will be the new name for BT Sport.

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman:

“Thank you Chris and welcome back as we talk about a tremendous fight card on Saturday live on DAZN around the world from Sheffield Arena. A huge domestic match-up in the 140lbs division. The British Champion, Sheffield’s Dalton Smith against the Commonwealth Champion, Liverpool’s Sam Maxwell. It’s a tremendous fight, former Team GB teammates but now with an opportunity to establish themselves on the world stage. This is a great fight card and one of the reasons is because you have so much young talent that is stepping up. We’ve seen some great names in British boxing over the years and it’s good to see so many familiar faces here as well. Former Matchroom fighter, Hall of Fame inductee, the great Carl ‘The Cobra’ Froch. Congratulations Carl. Two-time Featherweight World Champion Leigh Wood in the house. Two-time, two-weight World Champion Terri Harper. Onto Saturday night, as I said so much fantastic young talent here stepping up.”

Dalton Smith:

“My previous fights, obviously I always train hard, I’m a true professional but believe me I’m not underestimating Sam one bit. I’ve wanted this fight for a long time and that’s what it’s brought the best out in me. Physically it’s the best shape I’ve been in. It’s the best camp I’ve had. This fight means a lot to me – I want that British Title for keeps. I don’t feel like there’s any pressure on me – I never put pressure on myself. I’m boxing for myself, that’s it. When boxing is all said and done, it’s what I’ve achieved for myself. This is a big fight for me. I want that British Title for keeps. It’s going to be a special performance on Saturday. Sam is a good fighter. It’s levels, and I believe that’s what is going to show on Saturday night. If you can’t land then your power is a bit useless. I’m not underestimating Sam – this is a big opportunity for him. Where does Sam go after this? He needs to win this fight. This fight has brought the best out of me.”

Sam Maxwell:

I’ve enjoyed fight week so far. It’s been a busy one but I’m really enjoying it. I’m enjoying my whole boxing the last year that I’ve been with Paul Edwards. I’m enjoying it more than I’ve ever enjoyed it. It’s going to bring the best out of me. I feel like I hit hard enough to hurt anyone in the division. That’s what’s going to happen on Saturday if I land clean. I know I can hurt Dalton. The vibe I’m getting from his camp is that he’s looking to walk through me and smash me up. It’s going to be an exciting fight. Eddie has got all of the top 140lbs – it’s a great division to be part of. Beat Dalton on Saturday and I’ll put my name into the hat for some massive fights in the division. I feel like I’ve been underestimated by everyone. It’s about me going in there on Saturday and showing everyone how good I am.”

Pat McCormack:

“First title fight. I won plenty of medals in the amateurs. Olympic silver, World silver, European Games gold, Commonwealth gold. But now it’s time to win some belts as a pro. He’s coming to win, he’s a tough game lad. Fitness doesn’t win you fights. I’m levels above him and it’s going to show on Saturday night. Whatever he’s got to offer I’ve got an answer to. We’ve got a great team around us; Ben Davison, Lee Wylie, Barry Smith. All of the guys in the gym are flying at the minute. There’s not stopping us at the minute. Get this belt won on Saturday and push on from there. We’re looking at bigger and better things. This is the start of the titles.”

Tony Dixon:

“I love it. This is what I do. I’m a fighter. That’s what I come to do, give everyone entertainment. I’m here to do a job. I think it’s going to be a brilliant fight. He hasn’t fought me yet has he.”

Hopey Price:

“The last opponent was a little bit awkward but then again he boxed for a World Title. I fought him in my tenth fight. You can’t please everyone. Some people have said it was a bit boring but it’s given me the bit between my teeth a little bit for this fight. He’s a bit more game and he’ll stand there straight in front of me. I can stand straight in front of him, I can T off. I can just punch his head in gypsy style. The pressure is one now in these sort of fights. It’s not just about winning these fights and cruising through these fights. I really want to show the best of my ability. 100% this fight I’m coming for the knockout. I’m definitely going to take him out.”

James Beech Jnr:

“I’m ready to go now. I’ve been here and I’ve done it. I’m just ready to go. I’ve definitely learnt from it. In the past I’ve got myself hyped up, maybe too hyped up in the past whereas this week I’m just staying relaxed. I’m just treating it as if it’s a normal fight really.”

Junaid Bostan:

“I mean if you get asked questions you’re going to speak aren’t you. I’ve seen bits and bobs from their side saying, ‘he’s talking a good game’, but when you’re getting asked questions you’re going to answer them and you’re going to speak confidently. First of all, Eid Mubarak to all of my brothers and sisters. Inshallah you all have a good day. He mentioned about people pulling out of fights, he’ll never have that issue with me. I got offered the fight, watched a bit of a clip and said, ‘yeah no problem’. I feel like a big fish right now. It was only last year when I was on the Sheffield show and I was on a stool, I was like Eddie sort this out I know I’m not signed but you don’t have to rub it in. Now all of a sudden I’m on the top table. Life comes at you fast. It’s up to me to stay composed, stay switched on and deliver.”

Ryan Amos:

“I’m from the small hall shows. I had a few opportunities, everyone pulled out. I’m just happy that somebody has accepted a fight. I’m ready to go. I always come to fight. Basically I got offered a Midlands Title fight when I didn’t have much experience. I won that fight and just keep getting better and better.”

Lewis Sylvester:

“This is another step up for me. My last fight was another undefeated fighter for the final eliminator. Steffy has done everything in his power to get me to this position. I’m here now and I’m finally ready to show the world what I can do. A win is always good but putting on a great performance is even better. Getting a win, this could change my life and it could change my career completely. Hull is a massive boxing city and I’m ready to put it back on the map.”

Adam Cope:

“I can’t wait. I’ve been fit for a while and then this opportunity came up. I’m ready to step in and take it. I think a lot of people in boxing know about me but now it’s time to show everyone else what I can do. I think I can do everything really; box, punch, come forward and mix it up and work them out when I’m in there. I’ve got loads of support coming and I’m not going to let them down.”

Beatriz Ferreira:

“I’m coming from the World Championship and I’m really happy to be here for my third professional fight. I’ve prepared really well, coming from the World Title victory my adrenaline is at a 1000%. Preparation has been really good, I’m very confident and really looking forward to the fight. Yes I am highly determined. What I want is titles, I want belts. Olympic boxing is very different, the preparation is very different but I am really prepared for this. What I want is to collect belts. I am ready for it.”

Karla Ramos Zamora:

“I am focused on this next fight. I’ve got a lot of professional experience. Beatrice comes in with a lot of Olympic experience so everything is in place to be a really good fight on Saturday and I hope we have a clean fight and I hope it is a really good fight.”

Nico Leivars:

“It has been a frustrating few months. It’s been months where I’ve still been in the gym training hard, money in the bank if you want to say. I’m hoping for a good performance on Saturday night and you’ll see a lot of improvement. The whole gym is flying and it’s definitely bringing the best out of all of us. We’re all picking things up when we’re training together and sparring. Even with this weekend we’ve got three on the card and we’ve all been looking good in the gym. It’ll be three wins again on Saturday.”

Cory O’Regan:

“The Leeds thing I’ve done twice. This is my third time on a Matchroom card. I believe each one has been a little bit better of a performance. Hopefully for the third one, I plan on doing the same thing. In Leeds, I’m known around that way. Fighting in another city is good for my profile and building. Any opportunity you get to come on a show like this is one you have to take. It’s the one you want to look good on. I know what you guys can offer. I know what you can do for boxers, the opportunities and everything. It’s about me getting on the right shows at the right time and progressing in my career.”

Undefeated Super-Bantamweight slickster Shabaz Masoud has signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing. 

One of the brightest talents in Britain, Shabaz has won all eleven on his professional contests since turning over at the Bolton Whites Hotel with a third round TKO win over Stefan Sashev back in May 2018.

The 27-year-old from Stoke is trained and managed by Ben Davison out of the Ben Davison Performance Centre in Harlow, Essex alongside two-time Featherweight World Champion Leigh Wood and rising Super-Welterweight star Pat McCormack.

‘Maverick’ (11-0, 4 KOs) picked up the WBA Intercontinental Title last time out in November by stopping fellow unbeaten rival Jack Bateson in the twelfth and final round of their clash at the Utilita Arena Sheffield. 

Masoud, a former Sports Development student at Staffordshire University, hopes to follow in the footsteps of Prince Naseem Hamed and Amir Khan as a new wave of British-Asian fighters rise to the top of the sport.

“Alhamdulillah this is a huge step in the right direction for my career,” said Masoud. “Inshallah I’m a future World Champion and Matchroom have put together the path to make that happen. I want to thank Ben, Eddie and Frank for this opportunity. I’ve worked my whole life to seize it with both hands and that’s what I will be doing!

“To get the deal over the line there was a lot of back and forth. I wanted to be at the right place and I feel like this is the right time as well. I just can’t wait for a fight date now. I want to show the world what I’m about. It’s time to shine now. 

“Training down at the Ben Davison Performance Centre, a lot of the guys there are signed with Matchroom. We all bounce off each other, we learn from each other and I feel like you’ve got to surround yourself with winners. We’re all coming to do big things. We want to be the best gym in Britain.

“When fans tune in to watch me live on DAZN all around the world they should expect slickness, beautiful boxing, power and speed. You’re going to get a bit of everything. I want to bring those big nights up to Stoke. Don’t blink.”

“I’m incredibly excited about signing one of the brightest Super-Bantamweight contenders in Britain.” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “He is a special talent with a big future in the sport. Ben Davison is very confident that Shabaz has what it takes to become a multi-weight World Champion. He showed what he’s capable of in his last fight, impressively stopping the undefeated Jack Bateson in the final round to pick up his first pro title. There’s plenty more to come from Shabaz and I can’t wait to get this journey started.”

“I’m excited for this partnership,” said Ben Davison. “Shabaz is a special talent with remarkable potential, he has a great blend of style with plenty of substance. Say hello to Matchroom and DAZN’s soon to be World Champion. Shabaz will underachieve if he doesn’t become a World Champion, if not a multi-weight World Champion. 

“Shabaz is a very good student and he’s great to worth with. He’s a dedicated lad, travels a long way down here to the gym in Essex to work. He has the type of style that you don’t regularly see from the UK. He’s aggressive at times, he’s versatile, he’s slick, flamboyant and he has a little habit of showboating here and there which we’re not too keen on! There’s a lot he can offer.”

You can follow Masoud’s journey on Twitter: @ShabzMasoud and Instagram: shabaz_maverick_masoud

LAS VEGAS – June 29, 2023 – Fighters competing on the Errol Spence Jr. vs. Terence Crawford SHOWTIME PPV undercard on Saturday, July 29 previewed their respective matchups during a virtual press conference Thursday before they step into the ring in a Premier Boxing Champions event from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz facing unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera in a 12-round WBC and WBA Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event, rising star Jesus “Mono” Ramos taking on Spanish contender Sergio Garcia in a 12-round WBC Super Welterweight Title eliminator and unbeaten rising heavyweight Gurgen Hovhannisyan dueling the power-punching Viktor Faust in the 10-round telecast opener.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Man Down Promotions, TBC Promotions and TGB Promotions, are available through AXS.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

ISAAC CRUZ

“I’m training hard as always and zeroing in on Giovanni Cabrera’s strengths and weaknesses. It’s an honor to be the co-main event of a fight that will be remembered forever in boxing lore.

“My plan is to go out there and put on a show for everyone watching. I’ll be ready. One round or 12 rounds, however long it lasts, it’s gonna be a great fight.

“I’m gonna put on a show against Cabrera. It’s all part of my effort to close every door that Gervonta has available to escape from facing me again. I want to prove that I’m the best at 135 pounds.

“I’m really excited to win this fight so I can get to the next level of what I want to achieve. Giovanni is a quality fighter and he’s undefeated for a reason. I’m definitely not overlooking him, because he’s earned this shot.

“The fans are extra motivation for me. I want to keep giving them spectacular fights. It fills me with joy and pride to see their support. I promise every single fan that this fight is gonna be worth the price of admission.

“He may think he’s faced fighters like me in the gym, but he better be ready, because facing the real thing is a lot different.

“I’m here to show everyone that I’m no social media fighter like some others are. I’m a dog, I’m a warrior and my ceiling is not even close to being hit yet.”

GIOVANNI CABRERA

“I’m very happy to be here. I’ve finally arrived at the stage I’ve wanted to be at my entire career. Isaac Cruz is a great Mexican fighter and I’m a first-generation Mexican here in the U.S., so it’s gonna be fireworks. I think this might steal the show. I’m ready for my best performance yet.

“I believe he’s the best opponent I’ve faced. He has a strong will and a lot of fire. My plan is to meet that fire with my own.

“Cruz got his position from having a close fight with Gervonta Davis, so if he gets that merit, then if I defeat him convincingly, I’ll be right at the top too. I’ve shared the ring with his promoter Manny Pacquiao, so if I can dance with ‘Pac-Man’, I can dance with a ‘Pitbull’.

“My activity is definitely an advantage. I’ve been sparring great fighters at Wild Card Boxing Gym and I’m keeping sharp. This gym has the best fighters from all around the world.

“I’ve seen many examples of fighters with Isaac’s style. I’ve been able to out-class them. That’s the goal on July 29.

“I promise that we’re gonna leave Mexican boxing and American boxing on a high pedestal. You’re gonna see two warriors go at it and it’s gonna be fitting of the stage that we’re on.

“This is my time. Isaac Cruz is in trouble. I will be ready on July 29.”

JESUS RAMOS JR.

“This is a huge opportunity for me and I’m very blessed. I’m working extremely hard. I’m facing a tough opponent who always comes to fight. I know he’s gonna be there and ready to fight for the whole 12 rounds.

“I think with a win over Sergio Garcia I’m top five, or at least top 10 in the division. I’ve been beating top guys and looking impressive against them. I want to earn my shot and these are the fights I have to take.

“The goal is a knockout, but I’m a more mature fighter now. I don’t put that pressure on myself. I just go out there and perform and do what I do best. I work hard every day and I have to demonstrate that. If the opportunity comes, I know how to finish.

“This is gonna be an exciting fight. He’s a fighter who comes forward and he’s gonna be there all night. That’s the kind of fight I like. I can brawl if I have to.

“As fighters we grow with each fight and mature. I’ve matured with every fight and I’ve acknowledged my mistakes. I go back into the gym and work on getting better and that’s what I’m gonna show on July 29.

“I’m motivated by any doubt that I receive. If they don’t consider me the top of the division yet, then it’s because I haven’t earned it. I’m going to keep working hard. A lot of people thought my last fight was a 50/50 matchup, and I went out there and showed that it wasn’t the case.”

SERGIO GARCIA

“I’m training in the U.K. with a new trainer in Angel Fernandez and we’ve been working really hard. I’m facing a young opponent who’s gonna give it his all, but I have the edge in experience and I’m gonna take advantage on July 29.

“I’ve been feeling great with my new trainer and the chemistry is outstanding. But this is really about me having a third chance in the U.S. I know that if this passes by me, I might not get another opportunity.

“I know that Ramos wants to show out and make it to the top of the division. I just have to focus on executing what I do in the ring. I’ve shown that I have courage, but now I have to show my skills as well.  

“I can’t give away my secrets, but I have Jesus well scouted. I’ve been following him and I respect him. I know he’s been watching me too and that’s gonna make this a great fight.

“I may possess some tools that Jose doesn’t have. My fight against Tony Harrison was not my best night. I thought my fight with Sebastian Fundora could have gone either way. I’m going to take that experience and use it to come out on top.”

GURGEN HOVHANNISYAN

“My training is going really well. I’m very happy to be the opening fight on SHOWTIME PPV. I’m training really hard for July 29.

“I’ve known Viktor Faust since the amateurs and I looked up to him then. I’m very familiar with what he can do in the ring and I’m preparing to put on a great show. I’m very confident that I’m going to open this pay-per-view with an excellent performance.

“Spence vs. Crawford is gonna be the fight of the decade and that makes this a big step for me. A lot of people will be watching my performance and it’s very important for me to be on this card and perform well.

Boxing is more of a mental sport. I’ve learned a lot in that regard from being in the gym and sparring top fighters. With it being my fifth fight, that’s only a number to me. I’m prepared for this. It doesn’t matter to me how experienced my opponent is. I’m going to take on the fights with the best opponents.

“We do a lot more than 10 rounds of sparring when I’m training with Joe Goossen in the gym, so I’m not worried about going the distance if I have to. I’m more than ready.

“I’m not going to force the knockout, but if it comes, it comes. I’m just going to deliver beautiful boxing for everyone watching.”

#         #         #

ABOUT SPENCE VS. CRAWFORD

Spence vs. Crawford will see unified WBC, WBA and IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth’’ Spence Jr. take on WBO 147-pound world champion Terence “Bud’’ Crawford for the Undisputed Welterweight World Championship on Saturday, July 29 in a highly anticipated SHOWTIME PPV clash from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz facing unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera in a 12-round WBC and WBA Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event, plus rising star Jesus “Mono” Ramos takes on Spanish contender Sergio Garcia in a 12-round WBC Super Welterweight Title eliminator. Kicking off the pay-per-view, unbeaten rising heavyweight Gurgen Hovhannisyan will duel the power-punching Viktor Faust in a 10-round matchup.

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

NEW YORK, NY (June 28, 2023) Tomorrow night, standout prospect Kurt Scoby (11-0, 9 KOs) will enter the ring for the first time since signing a multi-year promotional deal with DiBella Entertainment. Scoby will face Hank Lundy in the eight-round main event at Sony Hall in Times Square, New York City. 

When he steps into the ring on Thursday, among the many eyes who will tune in to see him embark on this next chapter in his career are a multitude of foster parents and additional trainers and mentors that Kurt Scoby has called his village over the course of his 27 years.  

Growing up in Duarte, CA, Scoby endured a hellish childhood, rife with abuse and neglect. He threw himself into sports, becoming a standout in basketball, football, and eventually boxing, craving the mentorship and stability that being an athlete offered. At 12 years old, after one too many close calls at the hands of his family, Scoby entered the foster system, determined to not become a statistic like so many of his peers. 

Scoby would live in 14 different foster homes over the years, sometimes for two weeks, sometimes for two months or more. He would lose his mother, who passed away from Lupus shortly after he entered the system. Much like the proverbial baggage he carried throughout these homes, he rarely unpacked his things, knowing that a move to the next foster home could be minutes away. He would grow to depend heavily on his intuition as he struggled to stay out of trouble, a skill that would come in handy as his boxing career developed.

Throughout his childhood, his coaches kept an eye out for him, particularly Joe Lopez, a football coach who would pick up Scoby from the motel he stayed in to take him to football games at the local college. Lopez considered adopting Scoby, but sadly he lost his life in a motorcycle accident when Scoby was 14. It was yet another tragic loss for the young man, who by now was learning to think with his head and not his heart.

Scoby first stepped into a boxing gym at 10 years old. Fighting in the streets was a way of life for the youngster, and while en route to an after-school brawl, he heard the ding of a boxing bell. His curiosity was piqued. He quickly fell in love with boxing, and would go on to amass an impressive amateur record of 130-20, including a win at the 2019 California Golden Gloves tournament.

In 2017, Scoby’s life changed forever when his daughter, Leo Noelle, was born, giving him a purpose beyond himself, and even more motivation to be successful.

Despite receiving a scholarship to Fresno State University for football as a running back, followed by three years studying criminal justice at Azusa Pacific University, Scoby continued to fight, ultimately leaving football to pursue his boxing career.

In 2020, at the height of the Covid pandemic, Scoby caught a flight to New York City for $11 to begin a new life on the East Coast. He quickly began training out of Brooklyn’s Gleason’s Gym, under the tutelage of head coach Don Saxby, and made his professional debut in September of that year, earning a first-round knockout against Pablo Luna.

In February 2023, he fought on a DiBella Entertainment-promoted event in Topeka, KS, dropping John Mannu twice en route to a second-round knockout, impressing both DiBella and viewers watching Showtime’s “ShoBox” series.

“I am hugely excited about signing Kurt Scoby. He has the talent and punching power to become a star. Everyone will love him as they watch his career progress,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “He is an intelligent, well-spoken young man who has overcome every obstacle that has been put in front of him, while establishing longstanding relationships with everyone that has crossed his path. Scoob looks like a walking, talking action figure and has the charisma and smarts to succeed both inside and outside of the ring. His manager, Daniel Gonzalez, and I will work together to bring Kurt the right opportunities to reach his full potential and become the champion I know he is capable of becoming.”

“There’s no ‘side of the street’ talk when signing with DiBella Entertainment. Lou is a Hall of Fame promoter who has proven that he can make the big fights,” said Scoby. “Signing with DiBella makes all the sense in the world in my mind. I am very excited to work with DBE and am confident that their team, along with my trainers and management, will guide me toward achieving my dreams of being a world titleholder.”

“Lou DiBella and DiBella Entertainment are true professionals in the sport of boxing,” said Scoby’s manager, Daniel Gonzalez, Esq. “I know that, as a team, we will work together to make sure Kurt Scoby has the storied career that we envision for him. Lou’s track record for making boxing stars in New York City is undeniable. We are excited for this partnership and know that Kurt is going to be a force in the 140lb. weight division.”

If sports were a lifeboat during Scoby’s childhood, boxing is now his ship to command. When he begins his journey with DiBella Entertainment this Thursday at Sony Hall, he does it with the support of the village that helped raise him, and the poise and confidence of a fighter who has walked through fire and not only lived, but thrived

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO (June 28, 2023) – Golden Boy Fight Night: Mexico Edition has been slated for a return on Saturday, July 15 with a spectacular main event featuring No. 3 WBC-ranked Alan “Rey David” Picasso (24-0-1, 13 KOs) fighting in his hometown of Mexico City against Sabelo Ngebinyana (15-6-1, 11 KOs) of Cape Town, South Africa. The 10-round WBC Super Bantamweight Eliminator clash, presented in association with Zanfer Boxing, will be broadcast on Azteca TV in Mexico and worldwide on DAZN. 

Picasso has jumped the ranks in the past three years having defeated strong rivals such as Víctor Proa, Alexander Mejía, Edixon Pérez, Luis Millán and Kevin Villanueva. With a powerful liver hook, a strong left hand and the footwork to match, Picasso is hungry to prove to the world that he is world championship ready.

“I am ready to face the most important fight of my career. Sabelo is a strong, accurate and experienced fighter. But through my 25 fights, I have acquired qualities to be able to take this fight,” said Alan Picasso. “I am happy for the opportunity. Thank you Fernando Beltrán, Oscar De La Hoya and DAZN for placing their trust in me. After July 15, no one will be able to hide that I am the strongest super bantamweight in Mexico, and I will go for the world title. Nery, Inoue and Fulton should take care of themselves, because Picasso is in the division.”

Ngebinyana is familiar with stepping onto rival territory as the underdog and securing a victory. He has faced some of the strongest super bantamweights of his country. He has the endurance, strong chin, and upper left that can potentially prove to be challenging to Picasso. 

“It will be my first time in Mexico and the only thing I think about is that I will be the No. 2 mandatory of the World Boxing Council once again. I respect David a lot, he is a great boxer, complicated and knows how to work round by round, but I am not going to leave anything to the judges,” said Sabelo Ngebinyana. “I don’t know if they are underestimating me, but I come to do my job. I worked very hard and although I have defeats in my record, this will be my greatest victory. Thank Zanfer and Golden Boy for the opportunity, I will not let them down.”

Information on the complete undercard will be announced soon. 

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

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

Toledo’s knockout king Jared “The Real Big Baby” Anderson (14-0, 14 KOs) returns home to headline a 10-round main event against former world champion “Prince” Charles Martin (29-3-1, 26 KOs).

Fighting in the main event for the first time as a pro, 23-year-old Anderson has yet to go beyond the sixth round, having stopped five of his opponents in the first round and another five in the second round. In 2020, he garnered global attention as Tyson Fury’s primary sparring partner, but he is now carving his own path as he prepares to face the top names of the division. Martin, a 37-year-old St. Louis native, captured the IBF heavyweight world title in January 2016 with a third-round TKO over Vyacheslav Glazkov. Martin is coming off a fourth-round knockout against Devin Vargas last September in Los Angeles.

Rounding out the heavyweight doubleheader is the 10-round co-feature with Montreal-based wrecking ball Arslanbek Makhmudov (16-0, 15 KOs) taking on Nigeria’s Raphael Akpejiori. (15-0, 14 KOs).

The undercard streams exclusively on ESPN+.

Calling the action will be Andre Ward, a Hall of Famer and 2004 U.S. Olympic gold medalist, and Timothy Bradley Jr., a Class of 2023 Hall of Famer.  Serving as reporters will be Mark Kriegel, Bernardo Osuna, and Crystina Poncher.

Original Programming:

Prior to the event, ESPN will air RELENTLESS: Jared Anderson, 30-minute candid look at the next great American heavyweight Jared Anderson ahead of his homecoming in Toledo, OH. Fight fans will get to know “The Real Big Baby” before he reps “The Glass City” in his first-career headliner against former IBF Heavyweight world champion Charles Martin (29-3-1, 26 KOs). Still just 23 years young, the undefeated 2021 “Prospect of the Year” Anderson holds a perfect 100% finish rate with 14 knockouts in 14 professional victories, which he looks to keep intact in his main event debut.

RELENTLESS: Jared Anderson (All Times ET)

ESPN.com

Out Friday: The Most Intriguing Tier of the Heavyweight Division: The Next Generation, by Mike Coppinger

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Anderson vs. Martin

About ESPN
ESPN, the world’s leading sports entertainment brand, features eight U.S. television networks, direct-to-consumer ESPN+, ESPN Radio, ESPN.com, endeavors on every continent around the world, and more. ESPN is 80 percent owned by ABC, Inc. (an indirect subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company) and 20 percent by Hearst. 

About ESPN+  

ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 25.3 million subscribers. Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $9.99 a month (or $99.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices).   

DALLAS – June 28, 2023 – Today, Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) and Real Fight Inc. (RFI) announced that undefeated lightweight Ashton “H20” Sylve (9-0, 8KOs) will face off with the much more experienced veteran lightweight William “Baby Face” Dos Santos Silva (30-4, 18 KOs) on the Jake Paul vs. Nate Diaz pay-per-view card live from the American Airlines Center on August 5th in Dallas, TX. Sylve is coming off a dominating win over Adam Kipenga as the main event of MVP’s inaugural Most Valuable Prospects event, while Silva is fresh off a TKO victory over Diego Gonzalo Luque. The two will take the ring in an action packed eight-round matchup contested at 135 lbs. The Paul vs. Diaz pay-per-view will be distributed globally by DAZN PPV. In the US and Canada in addition to DAZN PPV, Paul vs. Diaz will be available on all major cable and satellite pay-per-view providers. All tickets can be purchased at https://www.ticketmaster.com/mvp-jake-paul-v-nate-diaz-dallas-texas-08-05-2023/event/0C005EA581B12549

Sylve, the first prospect signed by MVP and ESPN Ringside’s 2022 prospect of the year, has knocked out eight of his nine opponents and has not shied away from fighting more experienced names in the ring, leveraging his formidable pound-for-pound power and fast twitch agility to deliver decisive victories in each of his professional bouts. The Long Beach, California native was a gifted amateur who turned pro at 16 with over 100 wins and 10 national titles to his credit. Sylve first rose to fame as an eight-year-old when a training video made by his father, Ivan, went viral, leading to an invite to Floyd Mayweather’s storied gym in Las Vegas.

“It has always been a dream of mine to fight among legends and shine under the brightest lights,” said Ashton Sylve. “MVP has continually given me the opportunity to do so, and I couldn’t be more excited about stepping back into the ring in what promises to be the event of the year. “I’ve been grinding like crazy to get ready for this fight, and trust me, my technique and skills will be on full display on August 5th. Dallas, get ready ’cause I’m coming for you! See you soon!”

Silva, a Brazilian native from Sao Paolo, and current resident of St. Petersburg, FL, holds the impressive title of former WBO Latino welterweight and WBO Latino lightweight champion. In 2016, Silva put his lightweight championship on the line, but was defeated by the powerful Felix Verdejo, but has since won a regional belt for the IBO. Silva continues to fight the best in the game with only four losses in his 17 year career by Verdejo, Arnold Barboza, Cletus Seldin, and two-weight world champion Teofimo Lopez who all had a combined record of 75-1 at the time of their fight against Silva. Silva steps into the ring with Ashton Sylve coming off two straight wins, most recently a TKO against Diego Gonzalo Luque. He is training under Jim McLaughlin, a member of the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame and is promoted by Reyes Boxing and Fire Fist Promotions. 

“There will be fireworks during this fight,” shared William Silva. “I’m fighting for my family and country.”

Most Valuable Promotions, founded by Paul and Nakisa Bidarian, and Real Fight, Inc., founded by Diaz, are partnering to bring Paul vs. Diaz to global audiences. The strategic partnership will combine the star power and international reach of both fighters to promote the year’s biggest fight. The event will be distributed globally by DAZN PPV. In the US and Canada in addition to DAZN PPV, Paul vs. Diaz will be available on all major cable and satellite pay-per-view providers.

“Ashton continues to impress and entertain at such a young age and will bring his unique combination of knockout power and agility to the ring on August 5th,” said Nakisa Bidarian, co-founder of Most Valuable Promotions. “This fight represents his toughest test to date against a battle tested and dangerous Silva, who has only lost to some of the best fighters in the game. Sylve vs Silva is just one of many thrilling bouts on this card that promises to keep fans in the arena and at home on the edge of their seats, and we are thankful to our partners Real Fight, Inc., DAZN, and the American Airlines Center for their consistent hard work as we continue to build out an unforgettable night.”

For more information, follow on Twitter via @MostVPromotions, @realfightinc, @AshtonSylveh2o, @WillBabyFace, and @DAZNBoxing or on Instagram via @ashtonsylveh2o, @willbabyface, @MostValuablePromotions, and @DAZNBoxing.

About Most Valuable Promotions (MVP)

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

About Real Fight, Inc.

Founded by mixed martial arts legend Nate Diaz, in 2022, Real Fight Inc. promotes exactly what the name suggests — the fights people want to see, featuring the realest fighters from all over the world. Since his departure from the UFC, Diaz is extending his business empire with a true all-around combat experience that will focus on boxing, MMA, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. The inaugural event under the Real Fight, Inc. banner is set to take place on August 5, 2023, when Diaz makes his long-awaited professional boxing debut against Jake Paul at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas.  The card will also feature RFI fighters, Chris Avila, Alan Sanchez, Jose Aguayo and Luciano Ramos

About DAZN:

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

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

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

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

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

About American Airlines Center:

Designed by architectural wizard David M. Schwarz and Dallas based HKS, Inc., American Airlines Center is considered one of the nation’s top arenas. Since opening its doors in 2001, the Center has been setting the precedent for sporting and live entertainment events. Bringing in a wide variety of big name shows as well as being home of both the Dallas Mavericks and Dallas Stars, American Airlines Center consistently displays its unique versatility. Billboard Magazine named American Airlines Center the 6th busiest arena in the world in 2022.

QUINCY, Mass. (June 28, 2023) – East meets West! On August 19^th on the “Pandemonium at The Palladium” pro boxing card, presented by Granite Chin Promotions (GCP), a pair of unbeaten boxers, James “Pitbull” Perkins (12-0-1, 9 KOs) and Steve “The Savage” Sumpter (8-0, 7 KOs), put their sterling records on the line at The Palladium in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Perkins vs. Sumpter will be the eight-round main event for the vacant International Boxing Association (IBA) Super Middleweight Championship.

“Pandemonium at The Palladium” will be streamed live on www.bxngtv.com.

Perkins is a gravedigger from Lynn, which is located on the east coast of the Bay State, while Sumpter hails from Pittsfield in Western Massachusetts. they will be fighting in Central Mass., in Worcester.

It’s so rare in boxing today that unbeaten prospects square off against each other, rather than take the less risky route to build-up records.

“I am excited to be hosting my first show in Worcester at the historic Palladium,” GCP president Chris Traietti said. “The Palladium hosted a bunch of unforgettable events, and this is going to be added to the list.”

An old saying in boxing is that styles make fights. If that’s the case, Perkins vs. Sumpter has the potential to be an instant classic, because Perkins is a seek-and-destroy fighter and Sumpter a solid boxer-puncher.

Perkins, 30, fought to a draw in his 2019 pro debut and he’s won his last 12 fights in a row, including a four-round knockout of Larry Smith this past June 30.

“I’m looking forward to this fight with Sumpter,” Perkins said. “I think it’s going to be my toughest test so far and I welcome the challenge. I think it’s going to be a fun fight night for the fans as well.”

The 29-year-old Sumpter moved up in weight last November, capturing the vacant Massachusetts light heavyweight title by taking an eight-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Edet Mkpanam (8-0). Sumpter recently knocked out Miguel Angel Suarez in the opening round of his most recent fight.

“I think this fight is a great opportunity,” Sumpter remarked. “Another chance at fighting yet another undefeated fighter early in my career just makes me go even harder than I did before. To be headlining a good distance away from home is still a good feeling. I have a lot of supporters and I know they’ll make the trip regardless.

“I don’t know a lot about Perkins. I’ve seen him fight once and I wasn’t impressed. I think he’s a pretty good fighter, but I don’t think he has what it takes to come out on top.”

Other fighters slated to be in action on “Pandemonium at The Palladium” include two undefeated Holyoke boxers, Massachusetts Welterweight Champion Denzel “Double Impact” Whitley (11-0, 6 KOs) and super welterweight Carlos Castillo (7-0, 4 KOs), two unbeaten Springfield fighters, super featherweight Isaiah “Baby Warrior” Cruz (6-0, 4 KOs) and (his brother) super lightweight Calixto Cruz (2-0, 0 KOs), and former celebrated amateur Felix Parrilla (7-0, 6 KOs), the New Haven (CT) featherweight.

Additional fights and fighters will soon be announced.

Tickets are on sale and available for purchase online at www.ThePalladium.net.

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

INFORMATION:  

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

Twitter: @Granite_Chin

New York, New York, June 6, 2023 – Undefeated New Yorker Kurt Scoby will face his toughest test to date when he goes up against battle tested and Philly Tough Hammerin’ Hank Lundy in an eight-round super lightweight match-up in the June 29 main event at Sony Hall.

The fiull card, presented by Boxing Insider, will be streamed live, with no paywall, beginning at 7:30, at BoxingInsider.com

Tickets, priced at $95, $125, $200 and $325, are available at Ticketweb here

This edition of Broadway Boxing will also air on SNY on a delayed basis.

The card . . . 

Main Event – 8 Rounds – Super Lightweights

Kurt Scoby, 143.1 lbs. (11-0, 9 KOs) from New York, NY

Hammerin’ Hank Lundy, 139.8 lbs. (31-13, 14 KOs), Philadelphia, PA

8 Rounds – Super Welterweights

Brian Ceballo, 154.8 lbs. (14-1, 7 KOs), Brooklyn, NY

Mitch Louis-Charles, 153.2 lbs (7-3-2, 4 KOs), Quebec, Canada

8 Rounds – Super Lightweights

Terell Bostic, 139.8 lbs. (7-1, 1 KO), Wyandanch, NY

Matthew “Lefty Gunz” Gonzalez, 140.2 lbs. (12-0-1, 8KOs), Ridgewood, NY

6 Rounds – Weltwerweights

Arnold Gonzalez, 150.6 lbs. (11-0, 6 KOs), New York, NY

Alejandro Munera, 146.2 lbs. (8-7-4, 7 KOs), , Medellin, Colombia

Opener – 4 Rounds – Super Featherweights

Raymond “The Scientist” Cuadrado, 130.8 lbs. (7-0, 3 KOs), Ridgewood, NY

Yeuri “Dinamita” Andujar, 131.4 lbs. (5-5-1, 3 KOs), San Cristobal, Dominican Republic

PHILADELPHIA, PA (June 28, 2023) – Undefeated cruiserweight Muhsin Cason (11-0, 8 KOs) has his sight set on taking his career to the next level this year. Cason has emerged as a rising prospect and envisions captuing a regional title by the end of the year.

Muhsin Cason has honed his skills and demonstrated his immense potential in the ring. Advised by renowned figure in the boxing industry Amer Abdallah, Cason is ready to take on new challenges and make a mark in the competitive world of the cruiserweight division.

Cason, The brother of former two-time heavyweight world champion, Hasim Rahman said, “I’m ready to take my career to new heights.” He added, “With each fight, I have improved in every area of my game. The experience I’ve gained in the ring, at the gym, and fighting top-level guys has given me the confidence to compete at the next level.”

Signed to Home Team Management, Cason made his Saudi Arabia debut, in February of this year. Scoring a first-round knockout against Taryel Jafarov (21-6, 19 KOs), the pair squared off at Diriyah Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. With Abdallah guiding his career, Cason, who goes by the moniker “The Muslim Boxer,” could be the next big superstar in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Abdallah, who’s the driving force of boxing in the region said, “Muhsin’s performance in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was nothing short of extraordinary.” Abdallah continued, “His triumph over a formidable opponent in such a high-profile venue showcased his ability to perform under pressure and he rose to the occasion. With this huge win, Muhsin has positioned himself as a force to be reckoned with in the cruiserweight division. He has a massive online presence. His niche social media following has now captured the attention of boxing fans globally.”

Muhsin Cason is determined to continue his ascent to the top of the cruiserweight division. Looking ahead to the remainder of 2023, his unbeaten record and superb power have garnered significant attention. He intends to seize every opportunity to showcase his skills on the global stage.

“Fighting in Saudi Arabia was a dream come true for me,” continued Cason. “The plan is to continue making a name for myself in the United States and Saudi Arabia. I want to be known worldwide as a fighter that carries himself with a warrior spirit and integrity. Every fight is an opportunity to become special. I plan to take advantage of every situation.”

Cason’s trusted advisor, Amer Abdallah, contined to express his confidence in his protege, stating, “Muhsin Cason possesses immense talent and a hunger for success that is unmatched. We have big plans for him this year, and we are excited to see him rise to the challenges that lie ahead. Expect great things from Muhsin in 2023.”

10 Rounds Super Fly – Main Event

Pedro ‘Pedrin’ Guevara, 115.5 lbs. 39-3, 22 KOs, Mazatlan, Sinaloa

Miguel ‘Joyita’ Herrera, 115.1 lbs. 22-5-5, 8 KOs, Valladolid, Yucatan

Guevara is a former WBC World Light Flyweight Champion with two successful defenses. He also was WBC Silver light flyweight champion prior to winning the world title. He has not lost since 2017, winning nine consecutive fights. Herrera is counting on a victory to get him back on the road to title contention.

8 Rounds Super Bantamweights

Alexis “El Chapito” Molina, 117.7 lbs. 8-0-2 KO’s, Culiacan, Sinaloa

Jesus Ivan “Rafaguita” Mercado, 116.4 lbs. 5-0-1 4 KO’s, Nogales, Sonora, Mexico

10 Rounds Bantamweights – Opener

Juan Ramirez “Tubo” Marquez, 121.5 lbs. 15-6, 8 KOs, Ciudad de Mexico, Mexico

Nazario “Pantera” Castro, 120.8 lbs. 10-2-1, 5 KO’s, Angostura, Sinaloa                                  

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About ProBoxTV: ProBox TV is a digital subscription service which gives fans exclusive access to ProBox TV Content including live streaming of fights and on-demand videos. You can also watch daily talk shows with Juan Manuel Marquez, Paulie Malignaggi and Chris Algieri. ProBox TV can be accessed using your favorite streaming devices, including mobile devices, or any personal computer. ProBox TV is a global product and available in all countries.

Fact: Kissimmee, located in Central Florida has the largest Puerto Rican population of any region in Florida and the fastest-growing Puerto Rican population in the country.

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Las Vegas – UFC^® returns to UFC APEX with a classic striker versus grappler matchup in the bantamweight division, as No. 3 ranked contender Holly Holmfaces off with No. 10 Mayra Bueno Silva.In the co-main event, middleweights look to steal the show as Albert Duraev locks horns with Junyong Park. 

UFC FIGHT NIGHT^®: HOLM vs. BUENO SILVA will take place Saturday, July 15 at UFC APEX in Las Vegas. The entire event will air on ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ (English and Spanish) with the main card starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT. The prelims will begin at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT.

Former UFC bantamweight champion Holm (15-6, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.) looks to build another win streak and earn her way back into the title conversation. Among the most credentialed strikers in UFC history, she holds dominant victories over Ronda Rousey, Irene Aldana and Raquel Pennington. Holm now has her sights set on defending her spot in the rankings by becoming the first person to stop Bueno Silva.

Bueno Silva (10-2-1, fighting out of Sao Paulo, Brazil) plans to earn the biggest victory of her career in her first UFC main event. An exciting submission specialist who isn’t afraid to mix it up, Bueno Silva has secured stoppages over Gillian Robertson, Lina Lansberg and Stephanie Egger. She now intends to keep her momentum going with a statement performance against Holm.

Duraev (16-4, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev. by way of Grozny, Russia) returns to action determined to show he can compete with the top of the middleweight division. The winner of 11 of his last 12 bouts, he holds UFC victories over Roman Kopylov and Chidi Njokuani. Duraev now strives to snap Park’s hot streak and set himself up for a run up the rankings.

Always entertaining Park (16-5, fighting out of Seoul, South Korea) aims to earn the longest win streak of his UFC career with another signature finish. A well-rounded competitor, Park has impressed with wins over Eryk Anders, Marc-Andre Barriault and Denis Tiuliulin. He now looks to deliver another crowd-pleasing outing that will put the Top 15 on notice.

Additional bouts on the card include:

• Walt Harris (13-10 1NC, fighting out of Birmingham, Ala.) returns to the Octagon to face Josh Parisian (15-6, fighting out of Howell, Mich.) at heavyweight
• A featherweight bout sees Norma Dumont (9-2, fighting out of Minas Gerais, Brazil) face Chelsea Chandler (5-1, fighting out of Stockton, Calif.)
• Ottman Azaitar (13-1, fighting out of Rabat, Morocco) aims for another finish when he battles Francisco Prado (11-1, fighting out of Santa Fe, Argentina) at lightweight
• Terrance McKinney (13-5, fighting out of Spokane, Wash.) seeks another highlight-reel finish when he locks horns with Nazim Sadykhov (8-1, fighting out of Brooklyn, N.Y.) in a lightweight tilt
• Exciting featherweights collide as Tucker Lutz (12-3, fighting out of Reisterstown, Md.) matches up with Melsik Baghdasaryan (7-2, fighting out of Glendale, Calif.)
• Strawweight action sees Viktoriia Dudakova (6-0, fighting out of Volgograd Oblast, Russia) face off with Istela Nunes (6-4 1NC, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)
• Austin Lingo (9-2, fighting out of Mesquite, Texas) and Melquizael Costa (19-6, fighting out of Para, Brazil) look to return to the winner’s circle in a featherweight contest
• Evan Elder (7-2, fighting out of Hillsboro, Miss.) meets Genaro Valdez (10-2, fighting out of Baja California, Mexico) in a lightweight bout
• Tyson Nam (21-13-1, fighting out of Wahiawa, Hawaii) plans to spoil the UFC debut of undefeated Azat Maksum (16-0, fighting out of Almatinskaia Oblast, Kazakhstan) at flyweight
• Grappling specialist Alex Munoz (6-2, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif.) and Carl Deaton (17-6 2NC, fighting out of Mt. Pleasant, Mich.) clash at lightweight
• Ashlee Evans-Smith (6-5, fighting out of Santa Ana, Calif.) and Ailin Perez (7-2, fighting out of Entre Rios, Argentina) look to leave it all in the Octagon in a bantamweight bout

Visit the UFC.com for information and content to support your UFC coverage. Please click here to apply for media credentials to the event.

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About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 700 million fans and 233 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to over 900 million TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s active fighter roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 75 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS^®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is owned by global sports and entertainment company Endeavor and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram and TikTok: @UFC.

About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 25.3 million subscribers. Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $9.99 a month (or $99.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices).   

About ESPN

ESPN, the world’s leading sports entertainment brand, features eight U.S. television networks, direct-to-consumer ESPN+, ESPN Radio, ESPN.com, endeavors on every continent around the world, and more.  ESPN is 80 percent owned by ABC, Inc. (an indirect subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company) and 20 percent by Hearst.