Ekaterinburg, Russia (December 16, 2016) Former World Boxing Council (‘WBC’) Heavyweight Champion BERMANE STIVERNE (25-2-1, 21 KO’s), of Las Vegas, Nevada, with a week getting acclimated to the bitter cold in Russia, will battle #1 ranked contender ALEXANDER POVETKIN, (30-1-0, 22 KO’s) this Saturday, December 17 at the Ekaterinburg Expo Center in Ekaterinburg, Russia.

At the weigh-in on Friday, Povetkin weighed in at 223.7, while Stiverne tipped the scales at 249.3.

The winner of their highly anticipated clash will be the Mandatory Challenger to current WBC Heavyweight Champion Deontay Wilder. The fight will be telecast live online at www.vsenabox.ru with a scheduled start at 2:30 p.m. ET/11:30 a.m. PT in the United States.

“I’m used to it, I lived in Montreal, Canada. It’s the same kind of weather, probably colder in Russia because when it’s cold in Montreal it’s like January or February. It’s nothing I’ve never seen before.”

Speaking about the clash on Saturday night, Stiverne stated, “I do plan to win by KO. I have to. I can’t come all the way here and let the judge make my decision – I got to have make my own decision.”

“When I say I’m going to knock him out, it’s not any disrespect thing or I’m trying to trash talk, this is what I believe and this is what I trained for. Anybody who would come here and try and get a decision in his backyard would be a fool to believe that.”

“It’s the same thing if he came to my home, he has to try to knock me out. And what better way to win a title than by knockout!”

About the overall division and the possibility of facing Wilder with a victory on Saturday night, the Haitian born Stiverne said, ““This is my main focus, now I get to be a two-time heavyweight champ so it’s a great motivation.”

“The heavyweight division is exciting. It was quiet for a little bit of time, but now it’s back in action and is back where it used to be and I’m happy to be a part of it or in the mix.”

Stiverne lost a 12-round unanimous decision and his heavyweight title to Wilder on January 17, 2015 in Las Vegas.

POVETKIN vs. STIVERNE is presented by World of Boxing in association with Don King Productions.

Stiverne recently partnered with the FHBA (Fédération Haitienne De Boxe Amateur) and is the face of Haitian Boxing bringing awareness and support to the underprivileged youth/athletes.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin – December 16, 2016 – As the year winds down, Wisconsin-based super welterweight boxer Akeem Black (2-0, 1KO) is looking for better days in 2017. The 21-year-old father of two was assaulted Saturday in an attempted robbery at gun point at a Milwaukee gas station, derailing his plans to fight this Saturday in his hometown.

“I was on my way to pick up my sons at my sister’s house, and was sitting in my car at the gas pump, texting her,” said Black. He was accosted by two unidentified assailants, one opening each of his car doors. In shock, Black didn’t immediately comply with the man pointing a gun at him and demanding his cash. “I didn’t say anything at first, and then he repeated it – ‘Give me all you got, I’m not playing with you.’” Black protested, and the man hit in him the face with his gun, breaking Black’s nose. “I don’t carry cash, so they didn’t end up with anything,” said Black.

It was just the latest in a series of events this year that had the young fighter anticipating a fresh start in 2017. In the first half of the year, Black’s father, and his kids’ grandfather was sentenced to prison. Then, three months ago, his older brother Antoine was shot and killed in a domestic dispute at only thirty years old. “I just can’t wait for the new year to start. Hopefully it’s better than this year because this year hadn’t done anything for me except bring me a lot of anger and pain,” Black said.

Black hopes to return to the ring in February of next year. “He is already back in the gym and back to work,” said his long-time trainer Ernie Haines. “We always look for hurdles. I teach my fighters to bounce back. It’s a blessing they didn’t take his life.” Haines asked his fighter to take a few days off after the assault. “We had the BBC fly over from England to do a documentary on Akeem’s life and losing his brother. We just filmed that, and he was getting back on track, and this happens. He’s back at it though. He’s relentless, and he’s very serious about his career.”

Despite the year’s challenges, fighter and trainer remain optimistic about the coming year and the future of Black’s career. “The kid’s got tunnel vision,” said Haines. “I hope he gets a break in the coming year, but no matter what, he’ll be ready for what comes.”

Former Team GB amateur standout Joe Maphosa can’t wait to make his mark in the paid ranks after signing a long-term promotional deal with Hall of Famer Frank Warren. The Teeside terror is set to campaign at Flyweight and Super-Flyweight and will make his highly-anticipated debut in the New Year.

Thornaby’s 22-year-old starlet has joined highly-rated Guisborough twins and gym mates Josh and Kalam Leather in signing up with Warren’s growing stable and is trained by Imran Naeem at the Natural Progression Boxing Academy in Stockton-on-Tees.

He believes he possesses the attributes as well as the pedigree to be a crossover success in the professional ring. Promoter Warren recently signed a landmark multi-year deal with multimedia giants BT Sport and Maphosa can’t wait to propel his name into the limelight on BT Sport and BoxNation.

“I couldn’t have teamed up with Frank at a better time to be honest,” said Maphosa. “I’m really looking forward to showcasing my skills on such a huge platform. Frank has an unrivalled reputation for developing young talent and I can’t wait to get started.

“I’ve got quick hands and quick feet and pack a punch. I stopped a few in the amateurs so I think I’ll make a smooth transition into the pro game. I like to box clever but can fight on the front foot when I need to.”

The Zimbabwe-born prospect first laced a pair of boxing gloves at the age of 13 before joining former coach Tony Whitby at the Middlesborough ABC. Maphosa won around 60 of his estimated 75 amateur bouts, highlighted by a Golden Belt tournament win in Romania and a World Series of Boxing appearance against Cuba.

“I’ve got a lot to thank Tony for. I learned a lot from him and he brought me through in boxing and really helped to get me where I am today. It was more about in and out boxing in the amateurs, but I’ve slowed myself down and I think the longer distances like six and eight rounds will suit me more.”

Trainer Imran Naeem said: “Joe has got everything. He boxes southpaw and orthodox equally as well. He boxes well on his front foot, he can be aggressive and cut the ring off, but he can also box on his backfoot and be allusive. In terms of his skillset, it’s off the chart, it’s fantastic!

“It’s an exciting time to be involved in boxing in the North East; there’s some real gems up here. Obviously Josh and Kalam have already boxed on BoxNation but I believe Tommy Ward is the best kept secret in British boxing, the kid is unbelievable. In Joe we have huge potential and I’m honoured to be working with such a talented group of fighters.

Promoter Warren said: “Joe is another excellent addition to our growing team of young talent. He has a strong amateur pedigree and I’m confident that he can make a smooth transition into the professional ranks.

“I’m looking forward to watching his debut and watching him grow and mature as a fighter. We are committed to developing pro boxing in the North East and I’m sure we have a future star on our hands in Joe.”

You can follow Joe on Twitter: @JoeMaphosa, Instagram: joemaphosa and Snapchat: joemaphosa94.

New York, NY (12/16/16) – Dominican world-ranked contenders, junior welterweight Felix Diaz and junior featherweight Yenifel Vicente, both promoted by DiBella Entertainment, return home to compete in separate bouts held today at the Maunoloa Night Club and Casino, in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

“I am happy that Felix Diaz and Yenifel Vicente will end the year showcasing their talent in front of fans at home in the Dominican Republic,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Both Diaz and Vicente have proven themselves at their weights and I will work hard to bring them the best opportunities available in 2017. Diaz is a threat to any of the current junior welterweight world champions, including Terence Crawford. Vicente is always dangerous as he has the power to knock out anyone at 122 pounds and several divisions above.”

Felix Diaz (18-1, 8 KOs), the only boxer to win an Olympic gold medal for the Dominican Republic, is coming off of a career-changing performance back in July, winning a thrilling 10-round war against highly regarded, undefeated contender 21-0 Sammy Vasquez, at the Legacy Arena, in Birmingham, AL. The bout, which Diaz took on just a few weeks notice, was shown live on FOX, and served as the co-main event to Deontay Wilder’s heavyweight title defense versus Chris Arreola.

The Vasquez fight came just nine months after Diaz’ lone blemish as a professional, having lost a questionable majority decision in October 2015 to former IBF junior welterweight world champion Lamont Peterson, in his adversary’s backyard. Wins over 15-1-1 Emmanuel Lartei, 13-2-2 Adrian Granados for the WBC Fecarbox title, and 23-1 Gabriel Bracero earned Diaz the shot against Peterson.

Following his victory over Vasquez, Diaz signed a long-term promotional agreement with promoter Lou DiBella. Currently ranked no. 7 by the WBC, no. 13 by the WBO and no. 14 by the IBF, Diaz is eager to seek out the best opposition in the junior welterweight division. He spent much of the summer calling out WBC/WBO world champion Terence Crawford, who opted to look elsewhere for his December title defense. Resolved to stay sharp, Diaz will end the year fighting in his native Dominican Republic for the first time in three-and-a-half years, taking on Nicaraguan Levis Morales (14-3-1, 7 KOs), who has wins over four previously unbeaten foes, in a 10-round bout.

“It feels great to be fighting in the Dominican Republic again, in front of my family and friends,” said Diaz. “I know Morales is motivated, but I’ve prepared myself very well and am coming for a knockout. After my victory, I will be focused on securing fights against the junior welterweight champions and division elite, and, yes, I still want to challenge Terence Crawford!”

Junior featherweight contender Yenifel Vicente (29-3-2, 21 KOs), now a resident of Miami, FL, is hungry to end the year on a high note. A pro since 2006, the 30-year-old Vicente began his career ascent with victories over the tough Francisco Lorenzo and former Olympian Hector Avila. Collecting title belts as he progressed, Vicente won the WBA Fedelatin, WBC Fecarbox and Dominican Republic junior featherweight championships. Having fought almost exclusively in the Dominican Republic, Vicente made his US debut in 2012 as an unbeaten contender on the rise. However, between 2012-’14, Vicente would win only three of his next six bouts. Each of his losses came by decision and took place at either featherweight or junior lightweight. During this period, he did seize the interim WBC Fecarbox junior featherweight belt, becoming the first to stop Jorge Diaz, then 17-1, with a fourth-round TKO in June 2013.

Since his last loss to IBF no. 3-rated Eric Hunter in March 2014, Vicente has won four straight, all by knockout. On December 8, 2015, Vicente scored the biggest victory of his career, knocking out 19-0 Juan Dominguez at the Sun National Bank Center, in Trenton, NJ. The bout was televised by Premier Boxing Champions on FoxSports1. Vicente landed a dynamite overhand right to the head, sending Dominguez down for the full count, just 20 seconds into round three, in what was a “KO of the Year” candidate. Though he has been somewhat inactive following the Dominguez bout, with just one win via second-round stoppage in Santo Domingo in September, Vicente is determined to regain the momentum he had en route to climbing back up the world rankings. Standing in his way tonight is former Dominican Republic featherweight champion Alan Guzman (18-2, 14 KOs), in an eight-round contest.

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, there has been some talks about a possible fight between Mexican superstars Canelo Alvarez and Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. for a fight next May.

“We’re in talks, we’ve been talking for about a month,” Eric Gomez, president of Golden Boy Promotions, Alvarez’s promoter, said. “There’s interest on both sides.”

The biggest obstacle is the weight. If a deal is hammered out the weight would probably 164 or 165 pounds. Alvarez has never boxed above 155 pounds. Chavez has been 167½ or heavier for his past five fights dating to 2013.

“The catchweight is being negotiated,” Gomez said. “Canelo has a limit he wants, they have a limit Chavez wants, so it’s being negotiated.”

“It would be a good fight. The Mexican fans would really get behind it,” Gomez said. “It’s two really big names. We’re far apart, but we’re in talks. Hopefully, we can make it.”

He had some bad people in his life making bad decisions and giving him bad advice,” said Sean Gibbons, Chavez’s longtime matchmaker. “Julio was derailed from the path that he needed to be on. He’s back on the right path. He made weight comfortably for Britsch. He made the weight so easy. The contract was 169 but he said, ‘I’m coming in under to show that I’m back and serious.’ He proved to the people he’s serious and that he’s for real. The time is right and he can make the weight. The fight with Britsch was to prove to the public that he is ready for Canelo or (Gennady) Golovkin.”

LAS VEGAS, NV (Dec 15, 2016) – Mayweather Promotions has added exciting prospect Saul Rodriguez, the baby faced fighter who’s already been making noise in the boxing industry, to their stable of fighters. A proven crowd pleaser, Rodriguez boats a flawless record of 20-0-1 with 15 KO’s and a 71 percent knockout rate.

The twenty-three-year-old prospect was born in Riverside, CA. and scored a first round knockout in his professional debut back in September 2011 against William Fisher and hasn’t looked back since. Rodriguez has stopped his opponent inside of the distance in ten of his last 12 bouts and most recently knocked out Daulis Prescott in May.

“I have worked hard in my career and I have a great team who has helped get me to where I am now. I am developing as a professional fighter, and that comes with making choices to benefit my career,” said Rodriguez. “I am excited to join the Mayweather Promotions team, because it gives me to opportunity to be under the guidance of the best and take my career to new heights!”

“Saul Rodriquez is an exciting prospect, who has already made a name for himself in boxing,” said Leonard Ellerbe. “We are in a position to help these up-and-coming boxers get on track to make sound moves that will build their careers and challenge them to bring out their best.”

Be on the lookout for Saul Rodriguez’ Mayweather Promotions debut in early 2017, as he looks to continue his perfect record and works towards his dream of becoming a lightweight world champion.

Mayweather Promotions is also excited to acknowledge its growing stable of additional new signees: Xavier Martinez (7-0, 4 KO’s), Danny Gonzalez (1-0, 1 KO), Oluwafemi Oyele (1-0), Rolando Romero (1-0, 1 KO), Andres Cortes (4-0), former world title challenger Thomas Dulorme (23-2, 15 KO’s), and Kenny Robles who will make his professional debut on January 14, 2017.

Follow us on Twitter @MayweatherPromo and become a fan on Facebook at: www.mayweatherpromotions.com/MayweatherPromotions for news and updates.

“Due to dehydration, Antonio was taken to the hospital as a precaution (Thursday) morning,” Golden Boy Promotions spokesman Stefan Friedman told ESPN. “He is doing well and we look forward to his returning to action in the near future.”

“His blood sugar was a little high at 240,” Frank Espinoza, Orozco’s manager, told ESPN. “His heart rate was amazing at 39 beats per minute, so he was released and (we were) told to monitor him with fluids.”

BROOKLYN (December 15, 2016) — Top local talent from New York City will be on display on Saturday, January 14 as Polish heavyweight Adam Kownacki, Brooklyn-native Julian Sosa and Irish welterweight Noel Murphy all enter the ring in separate bouts at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

“In addition to the tremendous action that will be televised on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING and SHOWTIME EXTREME on January 14, boxing fans in attendance at Barclays Center will be treated to an exciting undercard featuring up-and-coming local prospects,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Polish heavyweight Adam Kownacki, Irish welterweight Noel Murphy and Brooklynite Julian Sosa, who is of Mexican descent, will all put their undefeated records on the line. Mayweather Promotions will also deliver Kenny Robles, a decorated amateur from Staten Island, making his pro debut, as well as Puerto Rican former world title challenger Thomas Dulorme on the comeback.”

The January 14 event features a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® doubleheader headlined by the super middleweight world championship unification showdown between Badou Jack and James DeGale. Televised coverage on SHOWTIME® begins at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT with junior lightweight world champion Jose Pedraza taking on undefeated contender Gervonta Davis.

Additional action is featured on SHOWTIME EXTREME®and headlined by junior featherweight world champion and Brooklyn-native Amanda Serrano battling former two-division world champion Yazmin Rivas. The telecast begins at 7 p.m. ET/PT and features Ievgen Khytrov battling Immanuwel Aleem in a 10-round matchup of undefeated rising contenders.

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

The unbeaten Kownacki (14-0, 11 KOs) will take on Joshua Tufte (19-1, 9 KOs) in an eight-round heavyweight fight while Sosa (6-0-1, 2 KOs) faces Gabriel Solario (2-2-1) in a six-round welterweight attraction and Murphy (7-0, 2 KOs) competes in a six-round welterweight bout.

Rounding out the action are a pair of recent additions to the Mayweather Promotions stable as former title challenger Thomas Dulorme (23-2, 15 KOs) enters the ring for an eight-round junior welterweight fight and Staten Island-native Kenny Robles makes his pro debut in a four-round welterweight battle.

A two-time New York Golden Gloves champion, four of Kownacki’s last five victories have come at the friendly confines of Barclays Center. Originally from Poland but now living in Brooklyn, Kownacki stopped Jesse Barboza in round three of their June fight the last time he entered the ring. The 27-year-old has won six times since the beginning of 2015 and faces one of his toughest opponents to date in the former kickboxing champion Tufte of Kernersville, North Carolina.

Trained by his father, former pro fighter and New York Golden Gloves champion Aureliano, Sosa has built a growing fan base fighting of the Flatbush Cops ‘N’ Kids gym in his hometown of Brooklyn. The 20-year-old is unbeaten since turning pro in March 2015 and has picked up three wins in 2016. He will be opposed by the 27-year-old Solario who fights out of Seattle and picked up a win over Drew Bokenshire in his last bout.

Originally from Cork, Ireland, Murphy has fought exclusively in the U.S. since turning pro in 2014 while fighting out of Woodlawn, NY. The 22-year-old earned his seventh pro victory in November when he won a dominant decision over Mohamed Allam in November. It was his second victory of the year and now he will make his second career start at Barclays Center looking to begin 2017 in style.

# # #

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

ST. PETERSBURG, Russia (December 15, 2016) – M-1 Global has announced Knockout of the Night and Submission of the Night bonus performance award co-winners for last Friday night’s M-1 Challenge 73: Battle of Narts in Ingushetia, Russia.

Co-Knockouts of the Night

Feared striker Magomed Idrisov (7-0-0, M-1: 4-0-0), of Russia captured the M-1 Challenge bantamweight title by knocking out defending champion Ivan “Buki” Buchinger (31-5-0, M-1: 6-1-0), fighting out of Slovakia, who rode a 10-fight win streak into M-1 Challenge 73, Idrisov put Buchinger to sleep with one devastating punch in the opening round for a shocking ending.

American bantamweight “The Punisher” Josh Rettinghouse (14-4-0, M-1: 2-0-0) knocked out his Kazakh opponent, Sergey Morozov (6-2-0, M-1: 3-2-0), in the first round.

Co-Submissions of the Night

Hometown favorite Khamzat Dalgiev (8-1-0, M-1: 5-1-0), chocked out British lightweight Christian “The Animal” Holley (10-3-0, M-1: 0-1-0) in the second round.

Brazilian bantamweight Diego “The Pride” Davella (16-5-0, M-1: 1-0-0) won his M-1 debut in impressive fashion, choking Zalimbeg Omarov (7-2-1, M-1: 4-2-1) into a second-round submission.

NEXT SHOW: Feb. 18, M-1 Challenge 74, St. Petersburg, Russia

INFORMATION:

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ABOUT M-1 GLOBAL: Founded in 1997, M-1 Global has established itself in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) as the premier entity for discovering and developing the world’s next-generation of superstar fighters. With its office in St Petersburg, Russia, the M-1 brand has staged more than 160 events worldwide, including M-1 Selection, M-1 Challenge, M-1 Global and M-1 Global HWGP events, in addition to co-promoting Strikeforce events and M-1 Global on the U.S. network, Showtime. Captivating live, television and broadband audiences with its superior production values and match-ups, M-1 Global events have featured some of the sport’s top names, including legendary heavyweight Fedor Emelianenko, Andrei Arlovski, Gegard Mousasi, Alistair Overeem, Keith Jardine, Ben Rothwell, Melvin Manhoef, Sergei Kharitonov, Aleksander Emelianenko, Roman Zentsov, Yushin Okami, Mike Pyle, Denis Kang, Martin Kampmann, Amar Suloev, Chalid Arrab and Stephan Struve. 2016 has been another sensational year of world-class competition, featuring a full calendar of Challenge events, fueled by a talent-rich contention system ranking M-1 Global Champions among the greatest fighters in the sport.

ABOUT M-1GLOBAL.TV: Enjoy MMA action now in high definition brought to you by M-1Global.tv, offering only the best fights from M-1 Global and other MMA organizations. M-1Global.tv is a great platform developed specifically to bring together the most exhaustive fight video database. It also provides an easy and intuitive interface, helping everyone to start using the platform in no time while avoiding any spoilers. Besides watching the past fights on demand at any time convenient to the customer, viewers are able to enjoy the action LIVE, all available to M-1Global.tv users through a low-priced month to month digital subscription. Your world of action. Anytime!

LONDON (15 December) – Legend Bernard Hopkins wants to end his illustrious career on a high as he enters the ring for the final time on Saturday night.

The 51-year-old who has enjoyed one of the most remarkable journeys in the sport takes his last step against the big-hitting Joe Smith, exclusively live on BoxNation, where he will look to go out with a bang following a glorious four-decade stint at the top.

The future Hall-of-Famer and two-division world champion has overcome many obstacles in his life, including a lengthy prison sentence before his fortunes changed and he embarked upon a path that will seen him go down as one of boxing’s greatest ever.

“I want the book to be written good. The last thing you remember about a good book is not the beginning, it’s the ending,” said Hopkins.

“I look at this as the final icing on the cake or that exclamation point. This is it. You know this is history. I achieved my first goal of success in the first part of my life. That was rougher than boxing.

“If you know anything about Bernard Hopkins’ history, if you go into details about the inner city Philadelphia guy, who was in the penitentiary from age 17 to 25, and survived, you’d realise I became champion a long time ago,” he said.

Hopkins has not been one to avoid testing himself having shared the ring with some of the very best during his career, with names such as Felix Trinidad, Joe Calzaghe and Roy Jones Jr all appearing on his résumé.

Now, though, he goes in against a young and hungry fighter in 27-year-old Smith, who has only a solitary loss in his 23 fights, with 18 wins by knockout.

“I’m in a competition with myself. When you reach this level of professionalism, you have done things that most fighters, especially the young fighters haven’t done yet. I want to overdo myself,” Hopkins said.

“Joe Smith is a hard puncher, he won’t run, is a union guy, he won’t lay back, and he won’t try not to execute me. However, Joe Smith has to be trained to pass four, five, six different styles that I will utilise in the ring, and he is going to have to be smart.

“I will be the matrix, I will be the executioner. I will be everything that I need to be to win. The sweet science is something that I’ve always been addicted too. My fight will be like watching the last game of Michael Jordan or Kobe Bryant,” he said.

Hopkins v Smith Jr is exclusively live on BoxNation this Saturday night. Buy now at boxnation.com.

BoxNation is available on Sky/Freeview/Virgin/TalkTalk/EE/Apple TV/ online at watch.boxnation.com and via apps (iOS, Android, Amazon).

– ENDS –
About BoxNation

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From £12* per month with no minimum term customers can enjoy great value live and exclusive fights, classic fight footage, magazine shows and interviews with current and former fighters.

Previous highlights have included Haye vs Chisora, Mayweather vs Maidana, Saunders vs Eubank Jr and Khan vs Canelo.

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Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren is delighted to have signed a long-term promotional deal with Leeds hero Josh Warrington. The undefeated Featherweight sensation (24-0, 5 KOs) is confident he can secure a World title as he embarks on the next stage of his career with Warren.

Yorkshire star Warrington is aiming to continue building a fortress in his hometown on his journey to World honours. 26-year-old Warrington is already the flag-bearer for boxing in his city but now wants to cement his place as one of British boxings’ biggest stars by mixing it with the world’s best.

“My original dream was to win a British title at the First Direct Arena and now we’ve gone beyond that and won European and International titles,” said Warrington. “All I want to do now is win a World title and I’ll do anything it takes to do that. I kill myself in the gym every time I fight and I’m determined to make my dream a reality.

“Every fight I have is a World title fight to me and the ultimate goal is to bring a World title back to Leeds and become the first World Champion from the city. The buzz around the city is crazy at the moment, they’re craving for a World Champion. I have little old ladies stop me in the street and ask me when I’m going to be fighting at Elland Road.

“Fighting for World title at the home of Leeds United would be a dream come true for me. I just need to keep on winning and keep on dreaming and hopefully that will be the end product of all of my hard work.”

Josh landed his first professional title, the Vacant English Featherweight belt, in just his twelfth fight when he outpointed Chris Male over ten rounds in 2012. After two successful defences, he then stopped Hull’s Samir Mouneimne to claim the Vacant Commonwealth strap, despite being a huge underdog.

In 2014 he comprehensively outpointed Martin Lindsay to add the British crown to his Commonwealth strap in his first outing at the First Direct Arena. Five months later ‘The Leeds Warrior’ halted Italy’s David Dieli in four to pick up the Vacant EBU European Featherweight title before winning the Vacant WBC International belt with a one-sided points win over Dennis Tubieron.

Trained by Sean O’Hagan and managed by Steve Wood, Warrington is excited about what opportunities 2017 will bring and cannot wait to showcase his talents live on BT Sport and BoxNation.

“I’m looking forward to starting the next chapter of my career with Frank. It’s an exciting time to be teaming up with him and the BT Sport deal is sure to signal the dawn of a new era for boxing in the country.

“I can’t wait to showcase my talent and hard work to an even bigger audience. It’s a bit of an honour to be part of it from the beginning and hopefully I can help drive Frank’s promotions along. I have a real hardcore support that keeps on growing and growing and there’s sure to be some big nights ahead.”

Promoter Warren expressed his excitement at securing the services of the hugely popular Leeds man and believes there is every chance that he can fulfil his dream of landing a World title in the New Year.

“I’m delighted Josh is joining our team,” said Warren. “He’s the flag-bearer for boxing in Leeds and I’m looking forward to him headlining some huge shows there live on BT Sport and BoxNation.

“He has unrivalled support similar to the following Ricky Hatton built while he was with me and it’s only going to get bigger with him fighting on big shows regularly on BT Sport and BoxNation. I’m confident I can deliver him a World title shot.”

Steve Wood, manager of Warrington, said: “I’m Looking forward to Josh being part of the new boxing revolution on BT Sport and expect him to be a huge success with his unrivalled work rate and entertaining style which fits his atmospheric audience.

“Frank has made a big play for Josh and made us feel wanted which is always good. He has promised to deliver the same opportunities he has for Terry Flanagan and I cannot see anything but Josh becoming another VIP World Champion. With Frank’s support, he can become a global star, as well as filling Elland Road we want road trips to Vegas in the future.”

You can follow Josh on Twitter: @J_Warrington, Facebook: Josh ‘The Leeds Warrior’ Warrington and Instagram: j_warrington.

LOS ANGELES (Dec. 14, 2016) – Former two-division world champion and Future Hall of Famer Bernard “The Executioner” Hopkins (55-7 2, 32 KOs) andJoe Smith, Jr. (22-1, 18 KOs) today hosted the final press conference ahead of their battle for the WBC International Light Heavyweight Championship on Saturday, December 17 televised live from Inglewood, Calif.’s “Fabulous” Forum on HBO World Championship Boxing® beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT.

In addition to Hopkins and Smith, Jr., co-main event fighters Joseph “Jojo” Diaz, Jr. (22-0, 13 KOs) and Horacio Garcia (30-1-1, 21 KOs) who will fight for Diaz, Jr.’s NABF Featherweight Title; and Oleksandr Usyk (10-0, 9 KOs) and Thabiso Mchunu (17-2, 11 KOs) who will battle for Usyk’s WBO Cruiserweight Title on the December 17 undercard were also in attendance along with Vyacheslav “Lionheart-Chingonskyy” Shabranskyy (17-0, 14 KOs) and Sullivan Barrera (17-1, 12 KOs) who will face off as the main event on the Friday, December 16 HBO Latino® card at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif.

Below are what the fighters had to say at today’s final press conference:

BERNARD “THE EXECUTIONER” HOPKINS, Former Two-Division World Champion and Future Hall of Famer:

“You have to prove you’re special, no matter how many titles you win. If you use that to stay in the game then you become special and an icon surpasses legend. Common man, special man. Which one do you want? Which one do you want? I want the special, you are that before you become that. If you want to work your way back down to common man, there’s a lot of people down there. I’m not going to predict that I end his [Joe’s] career. One day if he recovers mentally then he might have something to salvage and go forward. I’m a career stopper to most of my opponents that talk like him. Yes, I’m honored to be respected as Joe mentioned, too. I listen to words. Nobody is really paying attention to Joe.

“Joe won’t be special come Saturday. He will stay common.

“Since I gave you some food for thought, enjoy the final one, enjoy the textbook of the sweet science as you heard in the beginning of this press conference. The sweet science that I’ve been taught about boxing…the sweet science has nothing to do with power. It’s not like I can’t hit; I’ll beat you up.”

JOE SMITH, JR., Light Heavyweight Contender:

“I can’t even describe how excited I am to say it’s finally fight week. I’m ready for this Saturday and am very excited. I know I’m going to be there with a legend but I’ve worked very hard in the gym and made many sacrifices to get to where I am today. He is a legend, but Saturday night he’s just another opponent. I’m looking to stop him, be the first person to stop him in his entire career.”

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions:

“Golden Boy Promotions is going out with a bang in 2016. We’ve put together two spectacular, back-to-back cards in December with these two events, Shabranskyy vs. Barrera and Hopkins vs. Smith, Jr.

“What can I say about Bernard Hopkins that hasn’t already been said? Bernard’s resume reads like a hall-of-fame induction ballot. Between holding the record for the record number of title defenses as middleweight champion of the world (20) and moving up to light heavyweight to capture multiple belts in that division, Hopkins fought and defeated a who’s who of boxing world champions throughout his 28-year career.

“I want to say also, that Bernard is not just a champion in the ring, but in life. He’s had a remarkable life and career-and it’s not over just yet.”

JOE DEGUARDIA, President and CEO of Star Boxing:

“This is truly history. It’s almost like the passing of the guard. One way or another this is the last fight you’ll be able to see of a man who has boxed for decades and has done it his way. This is probably the most dangerous fight Bernard can take. It’s truly special to either watch either Bernard victorious or the passing of the guard.

“Joe Smith is the perfect example of the common man. He’s a heart lion from New York, and he’s the kind of guy like so many others that get up early in the morning; his craft now is as a boxer but he’s a hardworking union member. Saturday night we believe you’re going to see what happens when the common working man breaks his everyday and defeats a legend, and then the doors open up. Joe Smith, Jr. has been working very hard to get this done. He’s focused on the thing that he needs to do Saturday night and come out victorious.”

JOHN DAVID JACKSON, Trainer for Bernard Hopkins:

“Saturday is the day. Smith team feels good and confident; our team feels great and confident. There’s so much you can say about Bernard, but he definitely sees the best and this is a good fight for the fans to see Bernard go out and win. He’s a tremendous individual in and out of the ring. We’re looking forward to a great evening of boxing.”

JERRY CAPOBIANCO, Trainer for Joe Smith, Jr.:

“I would like to thank Joe DeGuardia and Star Boxing, Golden Boy Promotions Bernard Hopkins for picking Joe for this fight. I believe he’s going to make a statement, and as Bernard’s last fight I think it’s Joe’s coming out party. I know my father is looking down on us, and we’re going to be victorious. For all those counting the odds, you can double your money. Thank you very much.”

JOSEPH “JOJO” DIAZ, JR., NABF Featherweight Champion:

“I want to thank Oscar and Golden Boy Promotions and HBO as well for giving me another opportunity to showcase my talent. Man, this is a historic event with the legend Bernard Hopkins. It’s a blessing to be the co-main event. I want to tell everyone that I’ve been through an extensive training camp. My opponent Horacio Garcia will go out there and prove himself, but we’re ready and I’ll see you guys Saturday at the Forum.”

HORACIO GARCIA, Featherweight Contender:

“I am very motivated to give a great fight. I form a part of Canelo Promotions and am part of the team with Eddy and Jose “Chepo” Reynoso and Canelo Alvarez. We have done a lot of work and have a great strategy for this fight.”

OLESKSANDR USYK, WBO Cruiserweight Champion:

“Hello my name is Oleksander Usyk. I will be fighting this Saturday. Thank you to everyone, and I will be ready for this Saturday.”

THABISO MCHUNU, Cruiserweight Contender:

“Thanks to HBO and Golden Boy Promotions for this opportunity to showcase my talent. With every good opposition you always rise to the occasion. Thank you.”

VYACHESLAV “LIONHEART-CHINGONSKYY” SHABRANSKYY, USNBC Light Heavyweight Champion:

“Good afternoon everyone. I will fight this Friday at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, and you’re welcome to watch me. I’d like to thank everyone at Golden Boy Promotions and would like to wish Bernard Hopkins luck on Saturday.”

SULLIVAN BARRERA, Light Heavyweight Contender:

“I want to say thank you to Golden Boy Promotions, Kathy Duva and HBO for this opportunity. I want to say that this is a great fight for boxing fans, and I’m inviting everyone to go this Friday to Fantasy Springs Resort Casino. I think it’s a great show for everyone. Thank you for coming, and thank you for the support.”

NICK SPAMPANATO, Senior Vice President West Coast and General Manager of The Forum:

“We are proud to continue our rich boxing tradition by hosting the final fight for one of boxing’s living legends – Bernard “The Executioner” Hopkins as he faces Joe Smith, Jr. this Saturday, Dec. 17. It’s set to be an exciting night and one for the history books.”

KATHY DUVA, CEO of Main Events:

“Before I start I’d like to congratulate Bernard. We’re very happy to be here. I’d like to thank HBO. The only way to consistently present good events is by all working together and that’s what we’ve done here. Sullivan [Barrera] proved his medal when he risked his number one position against Andre Ward, and he is coming to win on Friday night. Thank you so much and we’re all looking forward to it on Saturday.

“We met Thabiso Mchunu when we met Sullivan Barrera. This [cruiserweight] is the division I believe that you will see action. I have a good feeling about our fight and have a great opponent in Oleksandr Usyk. We’re looking forward to our fighters putting on the best show as possible.”

TOM LOEFFLER, Managing Director of K2 Promotions:

“This is a great boxing weekend. Friday and Saturday shows as Oscar [De La Hoya] had said are tremendous shows. It’s all possible because of the living and fighting legend, Bernard Hopkins. Everyone is here to pay tribute to Bernard. They’re getting the opportunity to showcase their skills on the same fight as this legend. Thank you to everyone at Golden Boy Promotions, and I’d like to thank Kathy Duva and Main Events. Certainly Mchunu wasn’t our first choice; he has a tricky style with southpaw, but this is a true quality HBO matchup. It’s been 13 years since HBO has showcased a cruiserweight championship fight.”

TONY WALKER, Director of HBO Sports:

“I’d like to thank Oscar and all of Golden Boy Promotions for putting together a great night of boxing. This is the greatest collection of promoters on one card we have put together, and I wish we could do this more often.

“This is the final World Championship Boxing show of 2016, and we are finishing it with a bang with this triple-header. This show is unique for all the different stories – you have Diaz who fights out of LA who is taking on a fighter who is trained under the famous Eddy Gomez. We have a cruiserweight bout with Usyk and Mchunu, which is historic since we haven’t had a cruiserweight bout on World Championship boxing since 2008.

“This will be Bernard Hopkins 23rd and last fight with HBO who will be fighting a young lion – and Bernard would have it any other way. The last images of Bernard fighting, with a scowl over his face with his arms crossed as the executioner pose will be seen by his followers from all over. We welcome him as part of the HBO family as he continues his plans post retirement.”

Hopkins vs. Smith, Jr. is a 12-round WBC International Light Heavyweight Championship presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Star Boxing. Diaz, Jr. vs. Garcia is a 10-round NABF featherweight title match presented by Golden Boy Promotions. Usyk vs. Mchunu is a 12-round WBO Cruiserweight World Title battle presented by K2 Promotions in association with Main Events. The event is sponsored by “Cerveza Tecate, BORN BOLD” and Casa Mexico Tequila. The event will be televised live on Saturday, December 17, 2016 from Inglewood, California’s “Fabulous” Forum on HBO’s flagship series beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT.

Tickets for Hopkins vs. Smith, Jr. are on sale and are priced at $25, $50, $75, $105 and $205, not including applicable service charges and taxes, with a total ticket limit of 12 per person. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000 or the Forum Box Office (Monday through Friday 11:00 a.m. PST to 7:00 p.m. PST) at (310) 330-7300. Tickets are also available for purchase at www.fabulousforum.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

B-roll and images of Hopkins vs. Smith, Jr. are available for use and download HERE. Video and photo credit must be given to Golden Boy Promotions.

2016 U.S. Olympian Antonio Vargas has sigbed with Top Rank, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

“We had a lot of offers from promoters from all over the world and we were considering several of them when Top Rank made their offer,” Vargas said. “It’s a dream come true to be signed by Top Rank.”

“My first couple of fights as a pro, if I can, I want to fight at 115 [pounds], get a little title shot, then move up to 118,” Vargas said. “But I’m growing. I remember in the amateurs, at the Olympics, making 114 was really hard for me. But if I can’t make 115, I’ll fight at 118 for my first couple of fights.”

“I like to bring the fight,” Vargas said of his style. “I can box — I can be nice — but I just love to throw punches and let the fans see a good fight. I’ve been working with my trainer, Tito Ocasio, the last couple of months now, since I came back from the Olympics. He’s more of a professional-style coach. He’s trained several world champions. I decided to train with him because he’s one of the best professional coaches in Florida right now.”

“Antonio is an extremely gifted amateur who will flourish in the pro ranks,” Top Rank’s Carl Moretti said. “Combine that with his popularity in the Central Florida region, where Top Rank will be promoting numerous shows with our partners All-Star Boxing, [and it] should catapult Antonio quickly as an attraction.”

“I’m extremely happy for Antonio to have this opportunity with Top Rank,” said Vargas’ manager, Dave McWater of Split T Management. “He’s worked his whole life to be the best, and in signing with Top Rank he is now with the best.”

LOS ANGELES, CA (December 14, 2016) – Filipino fighters Michael “Hammer Fist” Farenas (41-5-4, 33 KOs) and Marc “El Gwapo” Pagcaliwangan (9-0-1, 7 KOs) have signed promotional contracts with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing. Both fighters, who are managed by SMG and Platinum Timing (owned and operated by Germaine Gillies), are scheduled to make their Star Boxing debuts in early 2017.

A former world title contender, Farenas, who started his career as a bantamweight, will now be campaigning at lightweight. Trained by Marvin Somodio at Freddie Roach’s Wild Card gym, Farenas is a stablemate of superstar Manny Pacquiao. Having won his last two fights, the Philippine born fighter has not been in the ring since October of 2015. With his new management team and promoter, his goal is to get back into world title contention with the possibility of fighting for a world title by the end of 2017.

“I’m very pleased to be fighting under the Star Boxing banner,” said Michael Farenas. “I want to thank my co-mangers, Bill and Germaine, for believing in me. I know I have a lot of fight left in me and I know that I’m fighting at lightweight (135 lbs.). I’m a stronger fighter today and I’m looking forward to a new beginning with my new team in place.”

Pagcaliwangan, who is of Philippine decent, but born in Ontario, Canada, will be campaigning at super-bantamweight. His last fight was in April of 2015, so he too will be looking to stay busy in the upcoming year.

“With all my fights, having been fought in Canada, I’m really looking forward to making my USA debut with Star Boxing,” said Marc Pagcaliwangan. “I have a solid management team now so I know I’ll have all the proper support to make my march toward a world title. I plan to relocate to Oxnard, CA, in the beginning of 2017 and start training with my new coach Robert Garcia. I can’t wait to get back in the in the ring.”

“SMG is very proud to have two hard hitters, in Farenas and Pagcaliwangan, join our team,” said SMG’s Bill Halkias. “Both fighters possess the power, speed and skills to become world champions.”

LOS ANGELES (Dec. 14, 2016) 2012 Olympic Flyweight Bronze Medalist Marlen Esparza of Houston, Texas has signed a multiyear deal with top boxing promoter Golden Boy Promotions, company CEO and Chairman Oscar De La Hoya announced today.
Esparza, who was also won the amateur World Championship in 2012, is the first-ever female boxer to sign with Golden Boy.

“I recently told my fans that I was going pro, and I am happy to announce that it will be the world’s best promotional company – Golden Boy Promotions,” Esparza said. “I am excited to get back into the ring as soon as possible and start climbing the ladder towards winning a professional world title.”

Beyond her incredible success as a boxer, Esparza has already crossed over into mainstream stardom. She has an endorsement deal with CoverGirl cosmetics and has appeared in Spanish-language television ads for Coca-Cola and McDonald’s among others.

“Before she ever steps foot into the ring as a professional, Marlen Esparza has already established herself as a rising star,” De La Hoya said. “At Golden Boy Promotions, we pride ourselves on developing fighters and transforming them into the best of the best. We look forward to doing the same with Marlen.”

Esparza will be introduced to the media at Bernard “The Executioner” Hopkins’ final preference conference ahead of his fight with Joe Smith, Jr. on Dec. 17.

Inglewood, California: This Saturday night undefeated WBO Cruiserweight World Champion Oleksandr Usyk (10-0, 9 KOs) will make his first defense against Thabiso “The Rock” Mchunu (17-2, 11 KOs) at the Forum in Inglewood, California. This exciting match-up will open HBO World Championship Boxing telecast beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT headlined by Bernard Hopkins vs. Joe Smith Jr. Below is the scouting report for this bout:

Category
Oleksandr Usyk
Thabiso “The Rock” Mchunu
Age
29
28
Record
10-0 (9 KOs)
17-2 (11 KOs)
Strength
Usyk has knockout power in both hands and is a tremendous pressure fighter. He possesses possibly the most dangerous left hand in the division, as well as a jab that is consistently at work.

Thabiso may have the fastest hands in the division. He throws lightning quick combinations and is a dangerous counter-puncher. He is also quick on his feet, making it very difficult to land clean.
Weakness
Although he had an extensive amateur career, he has just 10 pro fights under his belt. A majority of his bouts took place in Ukraine; this will be the first on US soil, where the crowd support may not be as much as he is accustomed to.
Mchunu’s stamina has gotten him into trouble in the past, most notably in his 2015 title eliminator bout with Illunga Makabu, a bout in which he was ahead on all cards before running out of steam in the championship rounds.
Experience
Oleksandr has plenty of amateur experience, accumulating over 400 bouts and a 2012 gold medal at the Summer Olympics. He has only had 10 professional bouts, but in his most recent fight he won the WBO Cruiserweight title from Krzysztof Glowacki.
The Rock has almost double the professional fights under his belt compared to his opponent. Along the way he has defeated credible opposition in former title contenders Eddie Chambers and Olanrewaju Durodola.
Power
The Ukranian’s power has been a force thus far in his young career. He delivers a relentless body attack and a ferocious left hand that can end the fight at any time.
Mchunu has solid power that is primarily based off of his speed. His power will be felt most when he unloads his combinations.
Speed
Usyk has above average speed, both in his hands and his feet. He keeps a steady and consistent pace throughout the fight and really turns it up a notch when going for the finish.
Thabiso’s speed is his strongest attribute; he is very agile in the ring. His cat-like reflexes make it very difficult for his opponents to connect and steer clear of his counter-punches.
Endurance
Usyk may have a slight edge in endurance regardless of having only 10 pro bouts. He was forced to go the distance for the first time in his most recent bout for the WBO Cruiserweight title. He was able to go a full 12 rounds and earn a decision win in enemy territory.
Mchunu’s endurance has been his kryptonite thus far in his career. He will need to maintain a steady and consistent pace in this bout considering the relentless attack that his opponent is known to deliver.
Accuracy
Usyk has solid accuracy; he keeps his jab productive all night. He has been very effective in breaking his opponents down with his in-your-face style.
Mchunu picks his shots wisely and is not known to waste punches. His accuracy could be on full display if he can get on the inside and unleash his quick combinations.
Defense
Usyk’s best defense is his rigorous offensive attack. He has made it very difficult for any of his prior opponents to get going offensively.
Mchunu’s defense is one of his finest traits as a fighter. His agility and quick reflexes make it difficult for any fighter to feel comfortable offensively.
Chin
Usyk proved in his last bout that he can take a shot. He took hard punches from Glowacki for 12 rounds and was able to stand his ground and deliver more of his own.
Thabiso has been stopped twice in his career, with one of those stoppages coming against former title contender Illunga Makabu in 2015.
Style
Oleksandr is an aggressive, in-your-face fighter who doesn’t take his foot off of the gas all night. He is willing to take some to give some and will throw the whole kitchen sink in the process.
Mchunu is a defensive-minded fighter who utilizes his hand speed and agility to keep his opponents guessing. He has also shown that he has no problem standing and trading shots with anyone in the division.
Crowd Support
Usyk has never fought in the US, but the hardcore fans in attendance will be familiar with him. Due to his exciting fighting style, those who do not know him may keep him on their radar by the night’s end.
Mchunu has fought in the US in the past and earned some big wins in the process. If he lets his hands go the way he has before, then he may very well share the crowd support here.
Intangibles
Usyk does not believe in tune-up bouts. He has been on a fast-track to the title since he turned pro and was thrown into the gauntlet to do so. Each of his opponents had winning records as well as more experience than him leading up to his bouts. With his first fight on US soil looming and the pressure to impress on HBO, he has chosen one of the more difficult fighters in the division to showcase his talents. He will face a young and experienced fighter who is hungry to get back on top and one who many believe to be the fastest cruiserweight in the world.
Mchunu has earned big wins in his career, both on big stages and in front of live audiences. At the young age of 28, he has time to regroup and earn some easy wins until his name is called upon again. However, Mchunu accepted challenging fights his whole career and does not plan to stop now. There are less-challenging contenders in the division that he could have petitioned for, but he believes that he is the best cruiserweight in the world. He knows the fastest way to prove that is to defeat Oleksandr Usyk, who many believe is one of the best talents in the sport.
The Match-Up
1. Will Mchunu be able to handle the power of Usyk?
2. Will Usyk be able to handle the boxing ability of Mchunu?
3. Will Mchunu’s stamina be a problem in this 12 round bout?
4. Will Usyk be able to handle the pressure of fighting in the US and on HBO for the first time?

According to Main Events’ matchmaker and 2015 NABF Matchmaker of the Year Jolene Mizzone, “This is a great matchup. As the champion, Usyk could have taken an easier opponent but he wants to challenge himself. Mchunu who could have also taken an easier fight but is hungry for a world title. Fights like these are made for fireworks. It obviously is a must win for both fighters!”

Hopkins vs. Smith, Jr. is a 12-round WBC International Light Heavyweight Championship presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Star Boxing. Diaz, Jr. vs. Garcia is a 10-round NABF featherweight title match presented by Golden Boy Promotions. Usyk vs. Mchunu is a 12-round WBO Cruiserweight World Title battle presented by K2 Promotions in association with Main Events. The event is sponsored by “Cerveza Tecate, BORN BOLD” and Casa Mexico Tequila. The event will be televised live on Saturday, December 17, 2016 from Inglewood, California’s “Fabulous” Forum on HBO’s flagship series beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.starboxing.com, www.K2promos.com, www.mainevents.com, www.hbo.com/boxing and www.fabulousforum.com; follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @starboxing, @HBOBoxing, @therealbhop, @beastsmithjr, @JosephDiazJr, @TomLoeffler1, @OleksandrUsyk, @Main_Events, @ThabisoMchunu and @TheForum; become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ GoldenBoyBoxing, https://www.facebook.com/ StarBoxing/, www.facebook.com/HBOBoxing and www.facebook.com/TheForum; and visit us on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing, @HBOBoxing. Follow the conversation using #HopkinsSmith.

HBO Boxing closes out 2016 with an iconic competitor taking on a determined challenger when WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING: BERNARD HOPKINS VS. JOE SMITH, JR. AND JOSEPH DIAZ, JR. VS. HORACIO GARCIA AND OLEKSANDR USYK VS. THABISO MCHUNU is seen SATURDAY, DEC. 17 at 10:00 p.m. (live ET/tape-delayed PT) from The Forum in Inglewood, Cal., exclusively on HBO. The HBO Sports team will call all the action, which will be available in HDTV, closed-captioned for the hearing-impaired and presented in Spanish on HBO Latino.

Other HBO playdates: Dec. 18 (9:00 a.m.) and 19 (11:15 p.m.)

HBO2 playdate: Dec. 20 (12:45 a.m.)

The fight will also be available on HBO NOW, HBO GO, HBO On Demand and affiliate portals.

For his final bout, Philadelphia’s Bernard Hopkins (55-7-2, 32 KOs) takes on rising prospect Joseph Smith, Jr. (21-1, 18 KOs) from Long Island in a scheduled 12-round light heavyweight contest.

In a remarkable career that started behind prison walls and defied the odds, Hopkins, 51, has fought professionally as a middleweight and light heavyweight for 28 years. Winning seven titles and making a record 20 consecutive successful middleweight title defenses, he is widely considered a sure thing for the Hall of Fame. But age and a lack of ring activity are certain to be factors in Hopkins’ 23rd appearance on HBO, since he hasn’t fought since Nov. 2014.

With just one blemish on his record, Smith, 27, supplements his training by working construction on Long Island, and has compiled an outstanding 78% knockout-to-win ratio. He seeks to raise his standing in the division as he continues to pursue a championship fight.

In the middle bout, Joseph Diaz, Jr. (22-0, 13 KOs) of South El Monte, Cal. takes on Horacio Garcia (30-1-1, 22 KOs) from Guadalajara, Mexico in a scheduled ten-round featherweight contest. A 2012 U.S. Olympian, Diaz seeks to keep his perfect pro record intact and raise his national profile; Garcia is fighting in the U.S. for only the third time.

The tripleheader opens with a cruiserweight title contest between southpaw Oleksandr Usyk (10-0, 9 KOs) from Kiev, Ukraine and Thabiso Mchunu (17-2, 11 KOs) of Cato Ridge, South Africa. A 2012 Olympic gold medalist, title-holder Usyk, 29, will be making his U.S. debut with this scheduled 12-round matchup. The more-experienced Mchunu, 28, has fought three previous times in the U.S. The fight marks the first live cruiserweight battle on the network since 2003.

Friday night HBO LATINO will present a tripleheader from Fantasy Springs Casino starting at 10:00 p.m. (live ET/tape-delayed PT) headlined by a light heavyweight attraction between Vyacheslav Shabranskyy and Sullivan Barrera.

Follow HBO boxing news at hbo.com/boxing, on Facebook at facebook.com/hboboxing and on Twitter at twitter.com/hboboxing.

All HBO boxing events are presented in HDTV. HBO viewers must have access to the HBO HDTV channel to watch HBO programming in high definition.

The executive producer of WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING is Rick Bernstein; producer, Thomas Odelfelt; director, Johnathan Evans.

® WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING is a registered service mark of Home Box Office, Inc.

LOS ANGELES – December 14, 2016 – Since his January 16th debut this year, Carlos “El Tiburon” Sanchez (The Shark) has racked up an impressive eleven wins with ten knockouts. It was this time last year that he and his family made the decision: The then 20-year-old would leave his mother Armida, father Rolando Sr., older brother Rolando Jr. and younger sister Iris, and travel with his uncle to Los Angeles to try his luck at a professional boxing career.

The decision wasn’t taken lightly. Carlos had worked in father Rolando Sr.’s San Felipe, Mexico-based fishing business since he was only eight years old. “Working in my family business only made me hungrier to pursue my boxing career,” said Sanchez. “I wanted to be a fighter, and honor my family’s sacrifice by making their dreams come true.”

It was around the same age when his parents sent him to Pacheco’s Boxing Gym in San Felipe. “I was hyper as a kid, and even now, I’m always seeking adventure.” Sanchez says. His cousin, Cheko Lopez confirms this account. “When we’re hiking, Carlos sees a cave, and wants to go into the cave. He wants to swim in the sea and explore everywhere,” said Lopez.

As an amateur in Mexico, Sanchez amassed over 190 fights, and won six national titles in six different weight divisions. “I wanted to pursue the Olympics, but when I didn’t advance, I decided to go to the United States to make my professional debut.”

He made his way to Los Angeles, where his trainer Armando Valenzuela introduced him to mega-manager Cameron Dunkin and Victory Boxing Promotions. “He has no distractions, and is focused on the prize,” said Victory Boxing Promoter Chris Middendorf. “He’s the nicest guy outside the ring, and when he enters the ring he becomes ‘El Tiburon,’ the Shark.”

2017 kicks off with a cross-country flight for the 21 year old Sanchez. He heads to Philadelphia to chase his twelfth win on Victory Boxing Promotions’ January 28th card at South Philly’s 2300 Arena, and, if all goes as planned, spends 2017 fighting and winning across the country. “I’ve had the opportunity to fight in LA, Phoenix, New Mexico, Utah, Virginia, and Mexico, and next month I get to fight in Philadelphia,” Sanchez said. The young boxer also plans to begin college and improve his English-speaking skills in the coming year, all while continuing to fight at the same pace as he has the last eleven months.

Tickets for Sanchez’s January fight can be purchased at VictoryBoxingPromotions.com beginning Monday, December 19th.

On Saturday, January 21, 2017, at the UIC Pavilion in Chicago, Warriors Boxing Promotions returns to action with another instalment of the “Windy City Fight Nights” series of boxing shows.

Designed to showcase the best of Chicago’s up-and-coming talent, this WCFN will feature undefeated super welterweight Achour Esho taking on the always tough Anthony Abbruzzese for the ABO Regional Jr. Middleweight Championship in the night’s eight-round main event.

“I’m super excited to fight again and showcase my talent,” said Achour Esho. “I love fighting and I’m stoked I’m in the main event again. Who wouldn’t be? My opponent is a hometown fighter whom I respect very much and am not taking lightly. He’s fought several undefeated fighters and gone the distance. He also knows me and is going to come out and try to prove himself. Let’s do this! Winner goes home with the title and belt!”

“I’m really looking forward to the fight. I know I’m fighting a tough guy who’s going to come at me, ready,” said Anthony Abbruzzese. “I’m coming to fight too. I have never said no to a fight in my whole career and I don’t plan on doing that now. I have nothing but respect for him and we are going to put on a show.”

In the night’s six-round co-main event will be super featherweight knockout artist Josh Hernandez (4-0, 4 KOs) of Chicago; as well as four-round bouts featuring undefeated Chicago lightweight Yousif Saleh (1-0); super middleweight Ruben Schobitz (1-0, 1 KO) of Miami via Spain; Warriors Boxing’s first-ever female fighter, Chicago lightweight Jessica McCaskill (2-1, 2 KOs); East Chicago, Indiana, super bantamweight Francisco Saldana (2-0, 1 KO); and Palatine, Illinois, flyweight Javier Rivera (3-0, 1 KO).

Tickets for Windy City Fight Night are priced at $101, $76, $51 and $36 and are available at Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster.com; by calling 1-800-745-3000, or the Warriors Offices: 312-226-5800 or the UIC Pavilion Box Office: 312-413-5740 or the UIC Box Office (Thursday or Friday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM) or can be Purchased the night of the event.

Warriors Boxing Vice President Dominic Pesoli created the Windy City Fight Night series to introduce and develop local and international boxing talent, many of whom went on to become world champions and top contenders, including Andrzej Fonfara and Adrian Granados from Chicago, as well as international imports such as current light heavyweight champion Sergei Kovalev.

“This show we are looking to surpass the success of the last one and that’s saying a lot,” said Warriors Boxing President Leon Margules. “I am proud of my team at Warriors for helping keep the Chicago boxing scene alive with this series and for developing young talent for the top of the boxing world of tomorrow.”

“We have a great group of talented fighters who will be in tough match-ups that help advance their skills,” said Dominic Pesoli. “The fans in this city know that Windy City Fight Nights are always an entertaining night of back-and-forth action.”

Windy City Fight Night is proudly sponsored by Abt Electronics, Output Lounge/Sports Bar, Unanimous Boxing Gym, and Holiday Inn & Suites Chicago O’Hare – Rosemont. On fight night, doors open at 7:00 pm CT and the action starts at 8:00 pm. The UIC Pavilion is located at 525 S. Racine Avenue in Chicago. The entire bout card is subject to change.
About Warriors Boxing
Launched in 2003, Warriors Boxing operates under a simple philosophy-bring the best boxers in the world to fight fans, match them in competitive bouts, and in doing so help re-establish the sport of boxing for a new generation.

With a series of successful Pay-Per-View shows and packed houses to its credit, the Warriors business model is working wonders in a sport that was sorely in need of the innovation and energy that the company brings to the table.

When it comes down to it though, a promotional company is only as good as the fighters and fights it promotes. Warriors Boxing has delivered on all fronts, with outstanding bouts such as Lara-Molina, Cayo-Peterson, Abraham-Miranda I and II, Miranda-Pavlik, Miranda-Green, Ibragimov-Briggs, Ibragimov-Klitschko, Urango-Hatton, Urango-Bailey, Cayo-Maidana and Ibragimov-Holyfield.

For more information on Warriors Boxing, visit their website at www.WarriorsBoxing.com.

LAS VEGAS (December 14, 2016) – The sixth and final 2016 edition of the “Battle Born Boxing” amateur boxing series returns this Friday evening (Dec. 16), starting at 7 p.m. PT, at Downtown Las Vegas Events Centerindoor facility.

“Battle Born Boxing” is an amateur boxing series created by Neon Star Media on behalf of its client, the D Las Vegas, to support amateur boxing in Nevada, as well as provide a platform for amateur boxers from other states to compete against local clubs and boxers.

Las Vegas-based boxing clubs represented at “Battle Born Boxing: Uprising VI” include Barry’s Boxing, Richard Steel Boxing Club and Johnny Tocco’s Ringside Boxing.

“Battle Born Boxing” was successfully launched April 15, 2016, and it serves as a prelude the night before for the “Knockout Night at the D” professional boxing series events, which have aired throughout 2016 on CBS Sports Network, live from the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center.

“Battle Born Boxing: Uprising VI” tickets, priced at $15.00 for ringside (rows 1 and 2) and $10.00 for general admission, are on sale at www.DLVEC.com. All tickets purchased for “Battle Born Boxing: Uprising VI” will entitle ticketholders to receive $10.00 off any tickets purchased for the following evening’s (Dec. 17) “Knockout Night at the D” pro event. Those tickets, priced at $1,000.00 VIP booth (includes 15 admissions), $50.00 VIP ringside, $25.00 and $15.00 general admission, are on sale at www.Ticketmaster.com or www.DLVEC.com. Taxes and fees apply to all sold tickets.

Doors for Saturday night’s “Knockout Night at the D” open at 4:00 p.m. PT with the opening bout scheduled at 5:00 p.m. PT.

INFORMATION:

Websites: www.dlvec.com, www.thed.com, www.royjonesjrboxing.com, www.knockoutnightboxing.com

Twitter: @thedlasvegas, @dlvEventsCenter, @DerekJStevens, @BoxingatheDLV, @RoyJonesJrBoxing

Instagram: @dlvec, @thedlasvegas, @RoyJonesJrBoxing

Facebook: www.Facebook.com/dlvec, www.Facebook.com/thedlasvegas

Follow these fighters on Twitter: @AstonPalicte, @_RandyMoreno, @JFlashGang, @Ornelas_Max

RIVAL BOXING GEAR & EQUIPMENT is the official gloves partner for the “Knockout Night at the D” series. www.rivalboxing.com, @rivalboxinggear

About the D Las Vegas: the D Las Vegas delivers the fresh, energetic attitude and fun atmosphere synonymous with downtown Las Vegas. The new casino hotel boasts 629 remodeled rooms and suites and a unique two-level casino featuring modern and vintage floors. Cocktails, beer and frozen beverages abound inside the casino at LONGBAR and on the Fremont Street Experience at D Bar. the D offers contemporary American fare at D Grill, Detroit’s legendary Coney Dogs at American Coney Island and premium steaks and authentic Italian dishes at Joe Vicari’s Andiamo Italian Steakhouse. The Showroom at the D Las Vegas features outstanding entertainment ranging from award-winning dinner theater and Broadway productions to music, comedy and more. Follow the D on Facebook and Twitter.

About Downtown Las Vegas Events Center: Located at the corner of Third St. and Carson Ave. across from the D Las Vegas, the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center can accommodate up to 11,000 guests and features state-of-the-art stage, sound and lighting. The open-air design is inviting to both tourists and locals and offers the perfect spot for concerts, conventions and other large-scale events. Embracing the uninhibited spirit of Downtown Las Vegas, the new venue plays host to a line-up of curated events including premier concerts, food festivals and more. The venue is also the first entertainment arena in Las Vegas to accept Bitcoin as currency. For more information, visit www.dlvec.com or follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @dlveventscenter.

About Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions: Co-founded in 2013 by 10-time world champion Roy Jones, Jr. and Keith Veltre, Roy Jones, Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions is on its way to reinventing boxing. Based in Las Vegas, Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions is climbing to the top at a fast pace, adding young talent to its growing stable such as undefeated super welterweight John Vera and former 3-time world super bantamweight champion Joseph Agbeko, along with Tony Lopez and Hanzel Martinez, lightweight Demond Brock, super featherweight Randy Moreno, cruiserweight Irsael Duffus, bantamweight Max Ornelas, super lightweight Emanuel Robles, middleweight Rolando Garza and light heavyweight Adrian Taylor.

About Neon Star Media LLC: Neon Star Media is a marketing and content company that creates highly effective brand-integration experiences for our clients, executed through a unique “story-telling” approach that empowers client’s product messaging to soar while delivering results. At Neon Star Media, we maximize client media spends by leveraging our relationships with various sporting events, cable channels, digital platforms and other social media outlets. We work with our clients to engage, endorse and advance their message with audiences on all platforms 24/7. Visit us on Twitter @Neonstarmedia or Facebook www.facebook.com/Neon-Star-Media-378687919005532/

The state of New York has found an insurance carrier to help underwrite policies for bigger events, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

The reason is because of new insurance regulations for combat sports in the state that went into effect on Sept. 1, as part of the law that legalized mixed martial arts in New York. When the law was implemented, boxing promoters were left without any available insurance policy to buy to cover the events, leaving the sport dead in New York since the last card took place on Coney Island in Brooklyn on Aug. 21.

New York’s Department of Financial Services, the state agency that worked with the insurance industry, has approved a policy that the United States Fire Insurance Co. is getting set to make available to promoters. It is expected to be in place in time for the first card on the commission’s schedule to take place. That is the card co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Mayweather Promotions and headlined by the Badou Jack-James DeGale super middleweight title unification bout on Jan. 14 (Showtime) at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

“It is our understanding that a combat sports insurance policy has been approved with an insurance carrier [United States Fire Insurance Co.] and will soon be made available to promoters,” NYSAC spokesman Laz Benitez told ESPN on Tuesday.

“There will be insurance for the Jan. 14 card at Barclays Center, but this is not solving the long-term problem,” promoter Lou

DiBella said. “It’s potentially phenomenally expensive. I don’t have all the final details, but my understanding of the insurance is that it would be available for the Jan. 14 card and will allow the highest-level fights to take place, but it does nothing to help the club shows or any grassroots New York boxing to take place. This is a temporary fix. I’m looking for a permanent fix.”

“This policy will allow the biggest fights to take place, but it does nothing to address the more serious problem of club shows or small regional television cards,” DiBella said. “You’re not going to see a ‘ShoBox’ card in New York with this insurance policy. I’d say 90 percent of the shows that normally happen in New York won’t be possible to take place under this policy because of the cost.

“Why would a promoter come to New York for that cost when they can go elsewhere for a lot less money?”

LOS ANGELES (Dec. 13, 2016) – Former two-division world champion and Future Hall of Famer Bernard “The Executioner” Hopkins (55-7 2, 32 KOs) today hosted a Los Angeles media workout at City of Angels Boxing Gym ahead of his final career fight against Joe Smith, Jr. (22-1, 18 KOs) for the WBC International Light Heavyweight Championship on Saturday, December 17. The bout will be televised live from Inglewood, Calif.’s “Fabulous” Forum on HBO World Championship Boxing® beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT.

In addition to Hopkins and Smith, Jr., fighters on the undercard of the December 17event were also in attendance along with Vyacheslav “Lionheart-Chingonskyy” Shabranskyy (17-0, 14 KOs) others who fight on the Friday, December 16 HBO Latino® tripleheader card at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif.

Below is what the fighters had to say at today’s media work out:

BERNARD “THE EXECUTIONER” HOPKINS, Former Two-Division World Champion and Future Hall of Famer:

“I want the book to be written good. The last thing you remember about a good book is not the beginning, it’s the ending. I look at this as the final icing on the cake or that exclamation point. This is it. You know this is history.

“I achieved my first goal of success in the first part of my life. That was rougher than boxing. If you know anything about Bernard Hopkins’ history, if you go into details about the inner city Philadelphia guy, who was in the penitentiary from age 17 to 25, and survived, you’d realize I became champion a long time ago.”

“We as humans put limitations on ourselves. When all is said and done, I don’t want to regret what I didn’t do.”

JOE SMITH, JR., Light Heavyweight Contender:

“It’s a privilege to be on this card. To take on a legend like Bernard is an opportunity I would have never expected. That said, come fight night, that won’t matter because it’ll just be me and him in the ring. My team and I have been training to take on any of the styles Bernard may bring. I’m excited for the night to come, and I’m ready to put on a great show.”

JOSEPH “JOJO” DIAZ, JR., NABF Featherweight Champion:

“Garcia, my opponent on December 17, is very dangerous. He’s big for his weight. I feel like he is going to have a lot more power at 126 than he has in the past. This is his big shot to get an upset. I didn’t take him lightly at all. This is probably one of the hardest training camps I’ve had.

“This is my home turf so I want to give the LA fans a great fight. I’m going to do anything and everything it takes to get the win. I want to put on a great show. Oscar De La Hoya and Golden Boy Promotions could have chosen someone else to be the co-main event for Bernard Hopkins’ final fight but they chose me and that’s a big thing. This is a dream come true. I’m going to give everyone a fight to remember.”

HORACIO GARCIA, Featherweight Contender:

“We wouldn’t have taken the fight if we didn’t think it was possible to win. I have a strong corner on my side with Eddy Reynoso. Our training camp has been great, and I’ll be looking for opportunities to break in. Diaz, Jr. had taken on a lot of tough opponents, but that doesn’t scare me. I am ready.”

OLESKSANDR USYK, WBO Cruiserweight Champion:

“I’m not fighting at heavyweight now because we should go step-by-step. I want to become a star in the United States because I want to show everyone quality boxing.”

THABISO MCHUNU, Cruiserweight Contender:

“It feels really to cool to be on this card. It doesn’t get much better than this.”

VYACHESLAV “LIONHEART-CHINGONSKYY” SHABRANSKYY, USNBC Light Heavyweight Champion:

“We never say we are going for the knock out. That’s not my style. We train to go the distance, especially knowing he has been under the care of a new trainer so we don’t know what kind of Barrera we are going to get. Sullivan is one of the toughest opponents I have faced yet. He’s faced fighters like Andre Ward and has gone the distance and has demonstrated his skill. Knowing that he needs this fight will make him even more hungry in the ring, and we are expecting him to come forward.

“With this fight, I get the opportunity to face opponents like Andre Ward. But first things first, I have to finish Barrera.”

SULLIVAN BARRERA, Light Heavyweight Contender:

“I believe this fight is the most important fight of my career. This fight will demonstrate that I am among some of the top fighters out there. My fight with Andre Ward has built me, and has given me the maturity to step back and think clearly. I needed that loss to win this fight.”

JASON “EL ANIMAL” QUIGLEY, Middleweight Contender:

“I’m ready for action on Saturday night. I’m 110 percent right now. I was lucky [my injury] was just a sprain in the wrist. It was frustrating more than anything because it wasn’t a terrible injury but I just had to rest it. I had to be patient and that is hard. It was a good experience for the future in case that happens again.”

RYAN “KINGRY” GARCIA, Lightweight Prospect:

“I feel good. Training camp went well. I feel so happy that I get to start my career with Golden Boy Promotions on this legendary card with Bernard Hopkins’ final fight.

“I accomplished everything I wanted to in the amateurs. I expect a busy year in 2017. I will keep fighting and keep going.

“I’m a smart power puncher. I place my punches well so I’m pretty accurate. I know my opponent has some power to him. I’m going to get in the ring, execute my game plan and get the victory on December 17.”

CARLOS “THE SOLUTION” MORALES, NABA Super Featherweight Champion:

“I feel good. We train for moments like this. I’m expecting a ruthless Charles Huerta in the ring, and we have been perfecting my ability to box him out. He wants my NABA title, and I expect for there to be a war in the ring come fight night. It’s a privilege to fight under this Bernard Hopkins card, and I hope I get to have a career like his.”

ROY “PITBULL” TAPIA, Featherweight Prospect:

“I believe in myself and I know what I can do. The good thing about this camp is that it was intense, but I didn’t kill myself with weight. I’ve been walking around the past couple of weeks at 127, 128. Not one day have I struggled to make the weight.”

CHRISTIAN “CHIMPA” GONZALEZ, Lightweight Prospect:

“I always train 110 percent. I’m ready for Saturday.

This is very motivational for me. I grew up watching Bernard fight so now that I’m on the undercard it feels like ‘wow!’ This is my first time fighting at such a big and historic venue on December 17.”

IVAN “STRIKER” DELGADO, Lightweight Prospect:

“It feels great to fighting in my hometown of Los Angeles. To have the city behind you and motivating you feels great. My opponent is a strong fighter. He’s going to want to come out and win. On fight night, I’m going to come out strong and get the win.”

Hopkins vs. Smith, Jr. is a 12-round WBC International Light Heavyweight Championship presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Star Boxing. Diaz, Jr. vs. Garcia is a 10-round NABF featherweight title match presented by Golden Boy Promotions. Usyk vs. Mchunu is a 12-round WBO Cruiserweight World Title battle presented by K2 Promotions in association with Main Events. The event is sponsored by “Cerveza Tecate, BORN BOLD” and Casa Mexico Tequila. The event will be televised live on Saturday, December 17, 2016 from Inglewood, California’s “Fabulous” Forum on HBO’s flagship series beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT.

Tickets for Hopkins vs. Smith, Jr. are on sale and are priced at $25, $50, $75, $105 and $205, not including applicable service charges and taxes, with a total ticket limit of 12 per person. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000 or the Forum Box Office (Monday through Friday 11:00 a.m. PST to 7:00 p.m. PST) at (310) 330-7300. Tickets are also available for purchase at www.fabulousforum.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

B-roll and images of Hopkins vs. Smith, Jr. are available for use and download HERE. Video and photo credit must be given to Golden Boy Promotions.

Contacts for Hopkins vs. Smith, Jr.:
Ramiro Gonzalez, Golden Boy Promotions: (213) 489-5631
Stefan Friedman/Kristen Caloca: (424) 202-1671
John Cirillo, Star Boxing: (914) 260-7436
Bernie Bahrmasel, K2 Promotions: (773) 592-2986
Ellen Haley, Main Events: (973) 903-6715
Patrick Byrne, HBO: (212) 512-1361
Kevin Flaherty, HBO: (212) 512-5052
Erik Stein/Brooke Paller, The Fabulous Forum: (818) 761-6100
Media Credentials: www.magnamedia.com

Shabranskyy vs. Barrera is a 10-round bout for the WBC USNBC Light Heavyweight championship, presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Main Events and sponsored by “Tecate, BORN BOLD,” and Casa Mexico Tequila. Doors open at 4:00 p.m. PT, and the first fight begins at 4:00 p.m. PT. The HBO Latino telecast begins at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT (live ET/tape delayed PT).

Tickets are on sale and are priced at $25, $35 and $45 and available for purchase now at the Fantasy Springs Box Office, by calling (800) 827-2946 or online at www.fantasyspringsresort.com.

14 December 2016 – Jakarta, INDONESIA: The largest sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship™ (ONE), is set to electrify the Jakarta Convention Center once again on Saturday, 14 January for its first event in 2017 dubbed ONE: QUEST FOR POWER. Headlining the spectacular fight card is ONE Middleweight World Champion Vitaly Bigdash as he defends his title against Polish fighter Marcin Prachnio.

Ticket information for ONE: QUEST FOR POWER is available at onefc.com.

Victor Cui, CEO of ONE Championship, stated: “2017 is shaping up to be a phenomenal year for ONE Championship. We have an exciting lineup of world-class events all across iconic cities in Asia, and we are thrilled to kick things off in Jakarta. Get ready for the biggest year in MMA history!

“ONE Middleweight World Champion Vitaly Bigdash, one of the most exciting fighters in the promotion, is set to make his highly-anticipated return to the ONE Championship cage against worthy challenger Marcin Prachnio. The last time Vitaly was in the cage, he took the title from former champion Igor Svirid by force, rallying from a series knockdowns to score an epic come-from-behind victory. Will he be able to handle Prachnio’s blunt power? This is a fight the fans will not want to miss!”

ONE Middleweight World Champion Vitaly Bigdash of Rostov-on-Don, Russia will be making the first defense of his title since winning the belt back in October of 2015. With a resounding technical knockout victory over former champion Igor Svirid, Bigdash displayed true grit and determination in one of the most action-packed fights in ONE Championship history. Bigdash showcased tremendous heart and resolve, overcoming a devastating attack by Svirid to score the upset. Now, he takes on his first challenger as champion in Marcin Prachnio.

Marcin Prachnio is a Polish mixed martial artist with an impressive 12-2 professional MMA record. He’s on a seven bout win-streak, five by devastating technical knockout. He is currently unbeaten in ONE Championship, overcoming three tough challenges in Alexandre Machado, Leandro Ataides, and most recently Jake Butler. Prachnio is now ready for his biggest challenge — a shot at ONE Middleweight World Champion Vitaly Bigdash.

38-year old Kazunori Yokota of Chiba, Japan is a mixed martial arts fixture with over 12 years of professional fight experience under his belt. A champion of Japanese promotion, DEEP, Yokota is one of the toughest fighters at featherweight as he has constantly punished his opponents and grinded out victories. He sports a stellar record of 25 wins and just six defeats with three draws. In his most recent bout, he challenged ONE Featherweight World Champion Marat Gafurov. Now, he is set to take on rising star Martin Nguyen.

27-year old Martin “The Situ-Asian” Nguyen of Sydney, Australia is a former featherweight title challenger with a 7-1 professional mixed martial arts record. His only loss came at the hands of reigning ONE Featherweight World Champion Marat Gafurov. None of Nguyen’s victories have gone to a decision, giving him four solid wins by technical knockout as well as three victories by submission. In his last bout, Nguyen defeated touted prospect Christian Lee with one of the best submissions of 2016. Nguyen’s all-around skillset allows him to compete at the highest level as a professional. He’ll take on Kazunori Yokota next.

Anthony “The Archangel” Engelen is a Dutch-Indonesian mixed martial artist who spends his days training full-time in Indonesia. He is an exceptional grappler and a well-rounded striker capable of ending fights quickly and decisively. With a young 5-2 professional MMA record, Engelen prides himself in being an exciting fighter, willing to please the crowd by always seeking the highlight-reel finish. The talented featherweight will do battle with AJ “Pyro” Lias Mansor.

41-year-old AJ “Pyro” Lias Mansor is one of the finest mixed martial arts coaches in the region. Based out of Borneo Tribal Squad in Sabah, Malaysia, Lias Mansor is responsible for training athletes like female fighting sensation Ann “Athena” Osman. With a complete striking and grappling arsenal, Lias Mansor sports a professional MMA record of two wins and three losses. In his last bout, Lias Mansor defeated Melvin Yeoh by unanimous decision to become ONE Malaysia Featherweight Tournament Champion. The well-rounded mixed martial artist is set to make his much-awaited return to the ONE Championship cage to face Anthony Engelen.

Vincent “Magnivincent” Latoel is a Dutch-Indonesian mixed martial arts veteran with over 30 professional bouts on his record. A lightweight standout in one of ONE Championship’s deepest divisions, Latoel’s experience against the very best fighters in his weight class has made him a dangerous opponent for anyone. Latoel is in his 15th year as a professional fighter and is looking for success in his next bout, this time against the Philippines’ Vaughn Donayre.

Lightweight Vaughn “The Spawn” Donayre is a Filipino mixed martial artist based in Dubai. Due to his passion for martial arts, the Cebu-native quit his mechanical engineering job to become a fighter. With a comprehensive set of stand-up and mat skills, Donayre is highly regarded as an exciting mixed martial artist constantly in pursuit of the finish. In his next bout, Donayre takes on Dutch-Indonesian MMA veteran Vincent Latoel.

Unbeaten Indonesian Flyweight prospect Stefer Rahardian impressed the local crowd in his ONE Championship debut by winning the ONE: TITLES & TITANS Flyweight Tournament in August of 2016. Rahardian finished both Yotha Hutagalung and Hendrick Wijaya by first round rear naked choke. The Indonesian mixed martial artist sports an unblemished record of four wins and no losses. Rahardian will put his unbeaten record on the line when he goes up against Jerome S. Paye.

Mixed martial arts prospect Jerome S. Paye made his ONE Championship debut in February of 2016 against China’s Li Hao Jie. In the bout, Paye showcased a well-rounded set of techniques, stifling his opponent with an array of striking combinations. With the ability to make fights difficult for any challenger, Paye will make his return to the ONE Championship cage in Jakarta, Indonesia to face prospect Stefer Rahardian.

23-year-old Adrian Matheis of Jakarta, Indonesia is a mixed martial artist competing in ONE Championship’s strawweight division. With a professional record of three wins and only one loss, Matheis participated in the ONE: TITLES & TITANS strawweight tournament in August of 2016, defeating both Rustam Hutajulu and Roso Nugroho via scintillating knockouts. This time Matheis will take on Filipino wushu veteran Rene Catalan.

38-year-old Rene “The Challenger” Catalan of Manila, Philippines is former 2006 Asian Games gold medalist in wushu. He made his ONE Championship debut in 2013 against Brazil’s Alex Silva. In September of 2016, Catalan notched his first victory in the promotion with a unanimous decision over Zhang You Liang. Catalan is now set to face Indonesia’s Adrian Matheis.

Indonesian mixed martial artist “The Terminator” Sunoto is a ONE Championship bantamweight with a 5-3 professional MMA record. With a penchant for grappling, three of Sunoto’s five victories have come by submission. The 31-year-old is a known as an aggressive fighter who never backs down from a challenge. His next bout will be against Chan Heng.

Cambodian Khun Khmer practitioner Chan Heng is a mixed martial artist competing in ONE Championship’s bantamweight division. He sports an 8-3 professional MMA record which includes a whopping six wins by submission and one by knockout. Always looking to finish on the mat, Heng is a dangerous grappler who is capable of ending fights in a variety of ways. Heng will step back inside the ONE Championship cage against Indonesian, Sunoto.

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

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

New York, NY (12/13/16) – Over the last two weeks, four fighters on DiBella Entertainment’s (DBE) roster have registered impressive victories to end the year. On Saturday, December 10, Ivan Baranchyk and Billel Dib entertained the crowd at Buffalo Run Casino, in Miami, OK, with thrilling battles. Featherweight Ryan Kielczweski and junior lightweight Tevin Farmer each dazzled their hometown fans with dominant outings, on Saturday in Quincy, Mass., and in Philadelphia on December 2, respectively. All four are poised to secure breakout opportunities in 2017.

(Photo Credit: Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment)

Making his fourth straight appearance at Buffalo Run Casino, where he has built a strong local following, undefeated junior welterweight contender Ivan “The Beast” Baranchyk outpointed Wilberth Lopez, of Tucson, AZ, over 10 rounds. Born in Russia, raised in Belarus and now living and training in Brooklyn, NY, the 23-year-old Baranchyk pressed the action, landing power shots throughout. Though, the tough Lopez proved to have a sturdy chin. In the third, a counter by Lopez caught Baranchyk off balance and sent him to the deck momentarily, but he got up quickly and continued to employ his game plan. Baranchyk’s high-level offense dominated the remainder of the bout, hurting Lopez at times, but never sending him off his feet. The judges tallied 98-91 twice, and 97-92, all for Baranchyk, now 13-0 (10 KOs), via unanimous decision. Lopez dropped to 15-7 (10 KOs).

In his previous contest, Baranchyk seized the USBA 140lb. title on September 23, with a 10-round unanimous decision over Chinese amateur standout Wang Zhimin. It was Baranchyk’s third appearance on SHOWTIME’s “ShoBox: The New Generation” series. His other two ShoBox bouts lasted a combined two minutes and 49 seconds, having scored highlight reel first-round knockouts over Shadi Shawareb (9-0-2) last December and Nicholas Givhan (16-0-1) in March.

Co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment, Fight Promotions Inc., and Holden Productions’ Four State Franchise, Baranchyk is currently ranked no. 12 by the IBF. Before turning pro in June 2014, Baranchyk culminated his amateur career with a 120-18 record. He won gold at the 2010 Class A Vilnuse tournament, 2011 and 2013 Match Event tournament, 2011 Kostukovichi International tournament, 2011 and 2012 Soligorsk Open International tournament, 2012 Class A Liventsev tournament, 2013 Active Military tournament, 2013 Republic of Belarus Open Cup, 2014 Vitebsk University tournament in Belarus, and was an amateur champion of Belarus from 2009-2014.

(Photo Credit: Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment)

In his second US appearance this year, world-ranked Australian junior lightweight contender Billel Dib, of Sydney, New South Wales, vied against Colombian former world title challenger Carlos Padilla on the undercard at Buffalo Run and outboxed him over eight rounds. Dib was the busier fighter and landed the harder shots. He also had to deal with persistent holding from Padilla, who was warned numerous times. Scorecards read 78-74 twice, and 77-75, all for Dib via unanimous decision. Padilla’s record fell to 16-5-1 (10 KOs). Dib has now won 12 in a row since his only defeat in 2012; a loss he avenged via eighth-round stoppage in a rematch. A pro since 2011, Dib has won the Australian and interim WBO Oriental junior lightweight titles, and is also the cousin of former IBF featherweight champion Billy Dib. Rated no. 5 by the WBO and no. 12 by the WBA, Dib, now 21-1 (10 KOs), is highly motivated to prove he belongs with the junior lightweight division’s elite.

DBE
(Photo Credit: Emily Harney/DiBella Entertainment)

Fighting in his hometown of Quincy, Mass., for the first time in two years, featherweight contender Ryan “Polish Prince” Kielczweski (26-2, 8 KOs) scored an impressive first-round stoppage over Mexico’s Francisco Medel, held at Marina Bay SportsPlex on Saturday. Following an aggressive start, Kielczweski blocked a right hook from Medel then countered with a right uppercut upstairs and left hook to the body to drop his foe. With Medel on the canvas in no condition to continue, the bout was halted at the 0:55 mark. Kielczweski was a two-time New England Golden Gloves champion as an amateur, finishing with a 118-26 record. A pro since 2008, the 27-year-old Kielczweski has been featured on ESPN four times thus far, including wins over 11-0 Miguel Soto and 12-1 Ramsey Luna. Heading into Saturday’s fight, Kielczweski was coming off of a close 10-round decision defeat to 20-0 Miguel Flores in a thrilling, action-packed ESPN main event in August. Now trained by Steve Maze and reunited with former amateur coach Jimmy Gifford, Kielczweski is determined to work his way back into contender status and title contention in 2017.

On Friday, December 2, junior lightweight contender Tevin Farmer fought at home in Philadelphia for the second time this year, in a 10-round main event at the 2300 Arena, facing DBE stablemate Dardan Zenunaj, an Albanian born in Kosovo and now living in Los Angeles. The bout was very competitive early on, with Zenunaj applying pressure and throwing in combination whenever he had Farmer against the ropes. Farmer remained composed, searching for countering opportunities. He particularly hurt Zenunaj with body shots in the third frame. As Farmer’s punch output increased, landing combinations with great accuracy, Zenunaj’s activity diminished. Farmer also displayed excellent defensive maneuvers on the inside avoiding much of the leather thrown his way. Despite staging a brief comeback in round nine, Zenunaj would come up short on the scorecards. Defending his NABF 130lb. belt for the first time, Farmer was awarded a unanimous decision with tallies of 99-91 twice, and 98-82. Earning his 17th straight victory, and fourth of 2016, Farmer upped his record to 24-4-1 (5 KOs), while Zenunaj fell to 12-3 (9 KOs). Ranked #3 by the WBC, #7 by the IBF, and #10 by the WBO, Farmer, a great, great nephew of legendary lightweight champion Joe Gans, is on the cusp of a world title opportunity.

LONDON (December 13, 2016) – IBF Super Middleweight World Champion James DeGale hosted a media workout in his hometown of London Tuesday as he prepares to face WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Badou Jack in a 168-pound world title unification showdown that headlines action on Saturday, January 14 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn and live on SHOWTIME.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT with with super featherweight world champion Jose Pedraza taking on undefeated contender Gervonta Davis.

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

DeGale worked out and answered questions for media at the Stonebridge Boxing Club as he nears his third straight fight in the United States, this time looking to return to the UK as a unified world champion.

Here is what DeGale had to say on Tuesday:

JAMES DEGALE

“This is the best fighting the best and this fight will prove who’s the best in the division — and I believe I am the number one super middleweight on the planet.

“Unification fights like this are still rare, never mind the best fighting the best, and me and Jack both wanted the fight. We both want to prove who is the best and everyone is in for a treat on January 14.

“I’ve got the best trainer in the world in Jim McDonnell; together we won the world title and now we’re going to unify the title. I’m going to win in style and do the business in the big New York City and come away with both belts to bring back to London.

“Jack’s a serious fighter, he’s a world champion, he has something I want. The winner of this will be the number in the division.

“Growing up, Joe Calzaghe, and Prince Naseem Hamed, they’re the ones I used to watch and I’d think, ‘I can’t wait to do that.’ Calzaghe’s one of my favorite fighters. He’s a bit similar to me. He’s a southpaw, throws a lot of punches. He’s another one who didn’t get the full credit he was due until after he retired. But that’s how boxing is.

“I’ve got to perform. My last couple of performances haven’t been vintage James DeGale. This is the best fighting the best, the champ fighting the champ: this is proper.

“I don’t get the respect. I made a bit of history. If I unify the division, going across the pond, no one’s ever done that from Britain.

“This is the one. I get love and support, I do have my fans, but it just feels like I look around at different fighters who haven’t done half what I’ve done and they get so much more recognition.

“I don’t get the credit: the full recognition, I don’t. But after this fight, people will start respecting me and knowing I’m the best.”

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

MIAMI (December 13, 2016) – Super welterweight world champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara (23-2-2, 13 KOs) will take on former world champion Yuri Foreman (34-2, 10 KOs) in a world title showdown that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on Spike on Friday, January 13 from Hialeah Park Racing and Casino in Miami.

Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT with former super middleweight world champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell (29-1-1, 23 KOs) battling Hungary’s Norbert Nemesapati (24-4, 17 KOs) in a 10-round bout.

“I’m very excited to be making my return to the ring in front of my Cuban fans in Miami on Spike on January 13,” said Lara. “Yuri Foreman is a former world champion who is dedicated to this sport and will be looking to win another world title. I expect nothing but the best from him. On fight night, I’m making another statement and going for the knockout! After this fight, it’s time to unify the division, then move up to win the middleweight titles. Everyone should tune-in because it’s going to be a great night of boxing.”

“”I’m thrilled to be fighting for the world title,” said Foreman. “I’m really looking forward to showcasing my skills and talent and becoming a two-time world champion. At this stage of my career, it would be a tremendous accomplishment. Lara is very crafty and many elite fighters have had trouble dealing with his style, but I have studied him and am very confident that I will defeat him by presenting him with something he’s never seen before.”

The Cuban Lara will be making his fifth defense of his title as he heads to Miami to fight in front of the many Cuban boxing fans in the city. The consensus best fighter at 154-pounds, Lara will be challenged by an experienced Foreman, a former 154-pound champion in his own right, who has fully recovered from physical ailments that almost derailed his career. Now, Foreman looks to establish that he can still challenge at the elite level as he prepares to solve the crafty champion.

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

The 33-year-old Lara is a slick boxer with the ability to deliver punishment while taking very little of it in return. Lara has notched victories over Austin Trout, Alfredo Angulo, Ishe Smith and Freddy Hernandez. As an amateur, Lara won numerous titles including a national championship at welterweight, and also participated in the 2007 Pan-Am games. Originally from Guantanamo, Cuba, Lara dominated Delvin Rodriguez in June of last year and followed that up with a third-round stoppage of former champion Jan Zaveck. Most recently, Lara outclassed top contender Vanes Martirosyan in May in a rematch of their controversial technical draw in 2012. On January 13 Lara will make the fifth defense of his world title when he returns to fight at Hialeah for the second time.

An ordained rabbi, Foreman moved to Brooklyn from Belarus at a young age and found solace inside the legendary Gleason’s Gym. Foreman was sensational in winning the first 27 fights of his career before he defeated Daniel Santos in November 2009 to capture a super welterweight world title. While he lost an all-New York showdown with Miguel Cotto at Yankee Stadium in 2010, Foreman won the last four fights of his career before retiring in 2013. Since deciding to return to the ring late last year, Foreman has picked up victories over Lenwood Dozier by decision and Jason Davis by second-round stoppage.

Dirrell has seen more adversity than most throughout his career as his time in boxing has been seriously jeopardized twice, first in December 2006 when he was diagnosed with non-Hodgkins lymphoma and was sidelined for 20 months and again in May 2012 when he broke his lower left leg and left wrist in a motorcycle accident. The Flint, Michigan-native never let that hold him down as he kept winning fights and working his way up the professional ranks. In 2014 he won his first championship when he defeated defending champion Sakio Bika. His road back to a 168-pound title has seen him dominate former title challengers Marco Antonio Rubio last September and Caleb Truax in April.

A pro since 2012, Nemesapati has already competed in 28 professional fights at just 21-years-old. The Budapest, Hungary-native won his first 14 pro fights and enters this bout on January 13 having won his last three matchups. He’s fought seven times this year, including a challenge of unbeaten Callum Smith in the UK in September before going on his current winning streak. He will fight in the United States for the second time in a professional career that has already seen him fight in six different countries.

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