Edgar Jimenez stopped Jovylito Aligarbes in the first round of their scheduled eight-round bantamweight bout.

Jimenez laned a perfect left hook to the jaw that sent Aligarbes down on his knees and then on his stomach and he could not beat the ten count at 2:58.

Jimenez, 118.4 lbs of Mexico City is 22-11-2 with 16 knockouts. Aligarbes, 118 lbs of Iligan City, PHL is 12-4.

Jose Lopez won an eight-round split decision over Ivan Alvarez in a junior welterweight bout.

Lopez, 141.1 lbs of Torreon, MX won by scores of 78-75 and 77-75 while Alvarez took a card 78-74.

Lopez is now 26-4-2. Alvarez, 140 lbs of Ciudad, MX is 22-6.

Scouse hero Liam Smith emphatically defended his WBO World Super-Welterweight title with a second round stoppage win over Montenegro’s Predrag Radosevic at the Liverpool Echo Arena. ‘Beefy’, making the second defence of his world title in his own city, dropped his challenger to the canvas with a signature crippling left body hook one minute and thirty-three seconds into the second round. The contest was over after Radosevic failed to beat the referees count.

It is now eight consecutive stoppage wins for Merseyside maverick Smith. The Joe Gallagher-trained super-welterweight didn’t put a foot wrong as he took his unbeaten record to 23-0-1 (13 KOs) and will now look ahead to potentially massive showdowns.

Speaking afterwards Smith said: “I knew the first body shot hurt him so I went for him a little bit. I knew I’d get a reaction as soon as I did it again. It was a good performance and a good stoppage; Joe said it was a proper world champion’s performance.

“Everyone is seeing the names that are getting thrown at me. If I was offered one of those fights I’d take it. I was massively up for this fight as I knew what a win would mean. Retaining a world title in my own city was a special experience.”

Queens, NY (6/4/16) – On Friday night, DiBella Entertainment returned to Resorts World Casino New York City with another action-packed nine-bout card for the latest installment of its popular “Broadway Boxing” series, proudly sponsored by Nissan of Queens.

The evening concluded with a slugfest featuring female fighters Alicia Napoleon, 153½, of Lindenhurst, NY, and Latasha Burton, 162, of New Orleans, LA, facing off in a rematch scheduled for eight rounds. There were plenty of shifts in momentum with each taking control at times while dishing out heavy artillery. Napoleon began applying pressure from the outset but Burton soon found a home for her straight right counter. The Long Islander fought her way inside to land power shots in the second, but then Burton came back with her own in the third. A straight right stunned Burton in the next round, though she proved resilient to control the action in the fifth. Napoleon continued to stalk her foe and by the sixth, Burton was tiring. With Burton looking to clinch and slow down the pace, Napoleon sought openings on the inside. Intent on scoring a knockout, Napoleon stormed out of her corner in the eighth with an unrelenting attack of power shots resulting in a TKO stoppage at the 1:43 mark when several left hooks to the head were unanswered. Napoleon improved to 6-0 (5 KOs) and Burton is now 4-7. Having claimed the vacant WBC silver junior middleweight title in January, Napoleon is determined to secure a shot at a world title in the near future.

(Photo Credit: Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment)

Returning for the first time since September 2014, former WBA lightweight champion Richar Abril, 139, of St. Petersburg, FL, engaged former world title challenger Jerry Belmontes, 138¾, of Corpus Christi, TX, in a 10-round tactical battle. Searching for countering opportunities, Abril felled Belmontes in the first with an overhand right. Abril was content to fight on the outside, while Belmontes, prone to loading up on his right hand, was simply not active enough overall. During the later rounds, Abril would take a half step back and land short countershots whenever the increasingly desperate Belmontes lunged in. Standing shoulder-to-shoulder over the final six minutes of action, Abril pelted Belmontes with hooks to the body. With scores of 96-93 twice, and 95-94, Abril upped his record to 20-3-1 (8 KOs) with a unanimous decision, while Belmontes suffered his ninth defeat, falling to 21-9 (6 KOs). Following his world title defense against previously unbeaten Edis Tatli (23-0) in September 2014, Abril was stricken with dengue fever that he contracted from a mosquito bite while training in Cuba to defend his title against Derry Matthews in early 2015. Abril was forced to vacate his title as he battled through the illness. Now back and 100 percent healthy, Abril will look to quickly regain his world championship under the DiBella Entertainment banner.

(Photo Credit: Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment)

Notre Dame graduate and light heavyweight contender Mike Lee, 178¾, peppered Mike Snider, 178, of Flemington, WV, with combinations to the head and body for eight one-sided rounds. Outboxing his adversary, Lee expertly evaded Snider’s advances and often countered with devastating hooks and straight rights. In round four, a left hook dropped Snider. By the sixth, Lee’s uppercut became a prominent weapon. After eight rounds, the judges tallied 80-71 twice, 79-72, all for Lee via unanimous decision to up his record to 17-0 (10 KOs). Snider fell to 10-4-3 (5 KOs). Before graduating in 2009, the Chicago-native Lee claimed three Bengal Bout championships while fighting on Notre Dame’s boxing team. Lee then won the 2009 Chicago Golden Gloves and soon turned pro in 2010. In September 2011, Lee became a national spokesman for Subway Restaurants and continues to be featured in their nationally broadcast “Famous Fan” advertising campaigns. In 2011, Lee headlined the first-ever pro boxing event at the University of Notre Dame, donating more than $100,000 to Notre Dame Charities through The Mike Lee Foundation.

In his first fight scheduled for six rounds, 20-year-old fan-favorite Julian Sosa, 142½, of Brooklyn, earned a hard-fought split decision over a very game Isaac Johnson, 142¼, of Colorado Springs, CO. Early on, Sosa’s jab was key, bloodying Johnson’s nose in the first and keeping him at bay. However, Johnson was able to close the gap by round three and the bout turned into a brawl, featuring several exciting exchanges for the remainder of the contest. Landing pinpoint, accurate countershots, Sosa was still able to maintain control. Scorecards read 58-56 Johnson and 59-55 twice for Sosa, who upped his record to 5-0-1 (2 KOs). Johnson is now 2-2.

Far Rockaway cruiserweight prospect Joe Williams, 184, easily dispatched of
Lamar Harris, 183½, St. Louis, MO, quickly taking advantage of his defensive deficiencies. Left hooks hurt Harris, whose exposed chin provided a wide-open target, then a right hook dropped him in the first. Williams continued to land his left hook in round two and, after having seen Harris absorb enough punishment, the referee halted the action at the 2:38 mark. Williams improved to 9-0 (7 KOs), while Harris fell to 9-12-4 (5 KOs). A 2011 US Olympic Team Trials silver medalist, Williams won the 2012 National Golden Gloves heavyweight title and was a three-time NY Golden Gloves champion before turning pro.

Coming off his sensational TKO victory on the ShoBox series in December, Canadian middleweight contender Steve Rolls, 162½, of Toronto, impressively broke down southpaw Emmanuel Sanchez, 163¾, of Laredo, TX, over five rounds.
Rolls staggered Sanchez with a left hook to the temple early in the first then used that same punch effectively throughout, doubling and tripling up on it. An exhausted Sanchez, who had a point deducted in round five for excessive holding, was unable to come out of his corner for the sixth stanza and the bout was stopped, dipping his record to 7-5 (1 KO). Rolls, now 14-0 (8 KOs) as a pro, had a very successful amateur career, competing on the 2009 and 2010 Canadian National boxing teams, compiling an impressive 83-14 record in the process.

Making his NYC debut, former amateur standout and two-time National Golden Gloves champion Marquis Moore, 167½, of Temple Hills, MD, bobbed and weaved his way inside against the much taller, rangier Turner Williams, 165½, of Beckley, WV, unloading quick-fisted combinations until a left hook to the body doubled his foe over in the red corner. Moore landed a few more hooks to the midsection to force a stoppage at 1:20 of the opening frame, to even up his record at 2-2 (2 KOs). Williams dropped to 1-3. Moore, a member of the U.S. Army, who was honorably discharged after serving three years for our country, had an outstanding amateur career, compiling a 140-15 record. Moore also claimed the National PAL championship in 2015 and boxed at the U.S. Olympic trials.

(Photo Credit: Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment)

Brooklyn’s former junior middleweight world champion and now ordained Orthodox rabbi Yuri Foreman continued his comeback with an impressive stoppage victory over Jason Davis, of Vancouver, WA. Foreman outboxed Davis with a stiff jab, directing it both upstairs and down, in the opener. Backing Davis to the ropes in the following frame, Foreman landed a left uppercut to drop his adversary. A flurry of hard shots resulted in a second knockdown and a left hook to the body produced the third. Foreman, now 34-2 (10 KOs), finally finished Davis off with another barrage that prompted a referee stoppage at the 1:55 mark of round two. Davis dropped to 13-12-2 (4 KOs).

Staten Island’s James Wilkins, 136¼, made a successful pro debut stopping Buffalo, New York’s Jack Grady, 140, inside two rounds. The stoppage came at the 2:49 mark. Wilkins’ speed and power proved too much for the upstate native Grady, now 0-4.

Statement on the pass of Muhammad Ali:
Muhammad Ali was The Greatest of all time. Perhaps the greatest in any sport. The outpouring of emotion currently taking place around the world is a testament to his impact beyond boxing and beyond sports.

On behalf of everyone at Showtime Networks, and our extended boxing family, we offer our condolences to the Ali family and to the millions of people the world over that were inspired by his grace, poise and prowess in life.
– Showtime Networks Inc

Today the whole world mourns the loss of boxing legend Muhammad Ali. His boxing talent was matched only by a towering self-belief. Everyone at Queensberry Promotions are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of The Greatest.

The former Heavyweight Champion was just 42 years old when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 1984. For three decades, Ali waged public battle against Parkinson’s – making brave appearances and carrying out endless charity work.

In his fight against Parkinson’s, Ali became the face of the debilitating disease. His toughest battle came outside the ring against an opponent that even he couldn’t knock out.

In light of today’s tragic loss Queensberry Promotions will be releasing a limited number of seats for tonight’s World Championship Boxing Event held at the Liverpool Echo Arena. Each seat will be sold on a first come first served basis (entrance before 8PM) and will be priced at just £5 with all of the money raised from these tickets sales being donated to the Parkinson’s UK charity in memory of Ali.

Before tonight’s World Championship Boxing event, headlined by Liam Smith and Predrag Radosevic, boxing will give it’s traditional ten bells salute in remembrance of the great Ali.

Parkinson’s UK drives better care, treatments and quality of life for those suffering with the disease and their family members. As well as providing care for those suffering with the disease, Parkinson’s UK provides expert information on every aspect of Parkinson’s so that people affected by the condition can stay in control of their lives.

To find out more about Parkinson’s UK and the work they do visit www.parkinsons.org.uk or call their confidential helpline on 0808 800 0303.

“It is extremely sad to witness the passing of boxing’s greatest fighter and icon Muhammad Ali. I would like to send my deepest condolences and thoughts to his family at this time. No fighter or sportsman will ever reach the level of Muhammad Ali, whose name will continue to echo through the ages. Inspiring, charismatic, a true legend – Ali will never be forgotten. Having the chance to meet the great man will be a memory and privilege I will always hold dear to me – an incredible human being, fighter and role model. Thank you Muhammad for inspiring us all.”

“We join the rest of the world in mourning the passing of Muhammad Ali and celebrating the legacy of this unique man in unifying us through his acts and gifts.

“Ali’s charisma, grace, and genius transcended all races, religions, nationalities, and generations. His spirit will inspire people forever.

“HBO is honored to have known Muhammad Ali as a fighter of beauty and a man of principle. We experienced the joy of working with him in support of initiatives he passionately cared about including, most importantly, his never-ending desire to teach tolerance and understanding of others to all people.

“Muhammad Ali was an icon and hero, father and friend, and beacon of hope for oppressed people throughout the world. He will be missed by all of those whose lives he touched. There are not enough bells to toll this loss.”

Derrick Webster 167 – Lenwood Dozier 161
Elijah Vines 154 – Jordan Rosario 154.4
Vidal Rivera 124.4 – Brian Santos 123.4
Mike Hilton 196 – Dave Valykeo 198

Promoter: D and D Promotions
Venue: The Grundy Arena
1st Bout: 6 PM

There will be 6 high-level amateur bouts.

Tickets for this special evening are $150 (VIP–Food and beverage is included), $100, $75, $50 & $30 and can be purchased by calling Dave Price at 267-246-7182 or Doc Nowicki at 609-923-3982

The Grundy Arena is located at 475 Beaver Street in Bristol, PA

LOS ANGELES (June 3, 2016) – Golden Boy Promotions Chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya has issued the following statement with regard to the passing of “The Greatest” Muhammad Ali:

“It is with great sadness today that we mourn the loss of the Greatest of All Time – Muhammad Ali. I send my deepest condolences to his family, and pray for strength and peace for them during this difficult time.

“Muhammad Ali is a legend and one of the world’s most celebrated athletes, the fighter who ushered in the golden era of boxing and put the sport on the map. He paved the way for professional fighters, including myself, elevating boxing to become a sport watched in millions of households around the world.

“Ali’s talent was undeniable – he was an Olympic Gold Medalist, three-time lineal world heavyweight champion, and the only one to accomplish that to this day, and reached the pinnacle of our sport as the undisputed heavyweight champion in 1964.

“Beyond his incredible talent, he also made boxing interesting. Ali was fearless in the ring, and took on the toughest, most challenging opponents. Ali exemplified courage—he never took the easy route, something to be admired in and outside of the ring.

“As he grew older, he didn’t let his physical condition become an excuse to stop working; he continued to work hard, focusing on giving back to the community. Today, as we reflect on his life, let us remember a man who pursued greatness in everything he did and be inspired to hold ourselves to that same standard. Rest in peace, my friend.”

# # #

LOS ANGELES (June 3, 2016) Golden Boy Promotions kicked off the summer with a sold out stacked undercard of top talents, including WBC Silver Featherweight champion Ronny Rios and the first ever female fighters on this edition of LA FIGHT CLUB. Golden Boy fighter Jesus “Renuente” Soto Karass was in attendance to witness all of the action. Fans were able to tune in to this fight frenzy broadcast live on Estrella TV and streaming live simultaneously on Ring TV, estrellaTV.com and on YouTube via Fenomeno Studios.

Santa Ana, CA fan favorite and current WBC Silver Featherweight titleholder Ronny Rios (25-1, 10 KOs) came back in the ring for the first time since defeating Jayson “La Maravilla” Velez on the Cotto vs. Canelo undercard last November to face Efrain Esquivias (17-4-1, 10 KOs) in a featherweight fight. Rios came in the ring with a vengeance, knocking Esquivias down in the first round with his powerful punches. The Belasco was a full house tonight chanting “Ronny” throughout his entire bout as they watched Rios take down Esquivias in the second round by technical knockout. Wearing his WBC Silver Featherweight belt proudly on display in the ring after his dominating win, one thing was for certain-Rios’ talents were on full display for his fans tonight.

“I knew Esquivias from my amateur days, and I remember him being a tough fighter,” said Rios after the bout. “I know that I trained harder, and prepared for this fight as if I would have prepared for a champion fight. This is just another step in the ladder to get my shot at a world title.”

The televised co-main event brought the likes of undefeated Zachary “Zungry” Ochoa (15-0, 7 KOs) hailing from Brooklyn, NY for his second LA FIGHT CLUB to face Bayamon, Puerto Rico’s Luis Joel Gonzalez (11-4-1, 6 KOs) in this eight-round super lightweight fight. Despite Ochoa putting on the pressure with his impressive reach, Gonzalez was able to knock Zachary down in the third round for a brief second. For the duration of the fight the two fighters danced around each other, exchanging blocks and jabs. Eventually, “Zungry” struck his opponent with a right chin jab in the seventh round in the most devastating knockout of the night–proving his sheer speed and strength to be too much for Gonzalez to handle.

“In this fight, I proved that I could make it all eight rounds, while maintaining all my power,” said Ochoa. “The endurance in my legs kept me steady throughout the fight. I saw the opportunity, and in the moment that I threw my right overhand punch, I knew he wasn’t going to get back up. This victory is just another win to get me closer to my dreams.”

Opening up the televised portion of the night, this edition of LA FIGHT CLUB made history as Golden Boy Promotions’ first female boxing event to take place at The Belasco Theater. Seniesa Estrada (7-0, 1 KO) representing East L.A. went up against Laredo, TX’s Christina Fuentes (4-8-5) in a scheduled six-round flyweight. Sparks flew as these two boxers went at it in all-out brawl in the ring inciting cries and cheers from fight fans. The fight took an ugly turn as Fuentes was docked a point for going after Estrada after knocking her down with a right during the third round. But that didn’t stop Estrada as she got up to fight back and during the fourth round began to corner Fuentes on the ropes while delivering quick combinations. Due to her quick comeback, the judges all voted to give Estrada the flyweight victory of the night.

“I came determined to win,” said Seniesa of being the first victorious female fighter of LA FIGHT CLUB. “Being in the sport since I was eight, I have the boxing skills to take on anyone. I wasn’t hurt at all in the fight, not even when I tripped up, and like the true fighter I am–I got back up. We both put in the work to be able to get on live television, and as female boxers, that’s no small feat. I am so thankful to Golden Boy for recognizing the value in us female fighters, and look forward to more fights like these.”

“Honestly, despite the outcome, I came to show that women can perform in this sport, and even do it better,” said Christina Fuentes of her bout. “Estrada and I came out to make a statement, and I feel like we did that as the Belasco’s first female fight. When I knocked her down for a brief second, I knew that I was holding my own, and could possibly win. Although she was throwing more punches, I felt like I was hurting her more at some points. I’m confident I’ll be back in the ring because I am a strong, woman fighter.”

Local fan favorite Rafael “El Alikin” Gramajo (8-1-1, 2 KOs) stepped back in the ring to face opponent Fajardo, PR’s Harold Reyes (2-6-1) adding fuel to the fire in the Mexico vs. Puerto Rico rivalry in this six-round featherweight fight. The bout began with a bang as Gramajo knocked down Reyes in the first few minutes. As the rounds progressed, punches were flying as these two fighters battled it out in the ring to seize the victory. The fans came out to show their support for “El Alikin” and went wild as the judges awarded him a unanimous decision win.

“I knew entering the ring that I was the bigger fighter,” said Rafael Gramajo of his unanimous decision win. “Our game plan was perfect, and we knew in order to win the fight I had to out-box him and walk him down. I’m so thankful for my boxing family, because without them, this wouldn’t mean anything. I expect my future fights to look bright as I build my reputation as a notable fighter.”

Los Angeles, CA’s Pablo “The Shark” Rubio Jr. (6-0, 3 KOs) was on the hunt in his six-round super bantamweight fight against Jorge Perez (2-3, 1 KO) of Riverside, CA. This rising fan favorite delivered some of the most devastating blows of the night to Perez, who pulled through until the very end with his counterpunches and blocks making for an all-out blood bath. Ultimately, the judges impressed by Rubio Jr.’s strength and skill awarded him the fight by unanimous decision.

“I loved the fact that we fought hard continuously through the fight,” said Pablo Rubio Jr. of his undisputed victory. “Not only did we give the fans a show, but we were both able to sharpen our skills in the ring. Perez is a tough fighter, and he was giving me a hard time, but I trained hard to go the distance in the ring. I have a lot of things that I learned about myself as a fighter, and what I would like to improve on, such as my distance and being able to land shots while being on the defensive. I hope the fans will get to see me dominate more fights in the ring.”

Los Angeles native Tenochtitlan “T-Dog” Nava (2-0) battled against David Montes (0-3) of El Paso Texas. “T-Dog” landed the first punch of the night, setting the tone of the fight. In a flurry of punches, the referee having to reset the fighters various times. Entering the second round, both fighters were hungry, landing combinations to the face and body. By the fourth round, we saw “T-Dog’s” expansive reach, landing overwhelming punches to the face. The judges all agreed he was the victor of the night via unanimous decision.

“I felt very confident about my fight today,” said champion Tenochtitlan Nava. “I train for every fight like I am the underdog because I feel like I have something to prove, and that I am a great fighter. I did get tired during this fight and it was because I felt I needed to punch harder and throw more punches. He was a bigger fighter and I needed to do more to win. I want to thank Golden Boy Promotions and the Saucedo Brothers for this opportunity, all my supporters and the Marching Skulls from West Side Boxing Club.”

Ronny Rios vs. Efrain Esquivias was presented by Golden Boy Promotions and sponsored by Cerveza Tecate, BORN BOLD, Casa Mexico Tequila and Carmelita Chorizo.

For more information visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.belascous.com, www.estrellatv.com, follow on twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @EstrellaTV and become a fanon Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/TheBelascoLA, www.facebook.com/EstrellaTVNetwork, visit us on Instagram at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @belascola and @EstrellaTV, follow the conversation using #LAFIGHTCLUB and #BoxeoEstelar.

AIN EVENT – VACANT WBC SILVER FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP (12)
Cristian “El Diamante” Mijares (53-8-2, 26 KOs, Gomez Palacio, Durango, Mexico 125.8 lbs.
Andres “Jaguarito” Gutierrez (34-0-1, 24 KOs), Guadalajara, Queretaro, Mexico 130 lbs.*
(Andreas was 4 lbs. overweight)

CO-FEATURE – BANTAMWEIGHTS (8)
Edgar “Power” Jimenez (21-11-2, 15 KOs), Mexico City, Distrito Federal, Mexico 118.4 lbs.
Jovylito “J-Flash” Aligarbes (12-3, 6 KOs), Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, Philippines lbs. 118.4 lbs.

JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS (10)
Ivan “Zurdo” ALVAREZ (23-5, 16 KOs), Ciudad Obregon, Sonora, Mexico 140 lbs.
Jose “Piston” Lopez (25-4-2, 15 KOs), Torreon, Coahuliacle Zaragoza, Mexico 141.1 lbs.

FEMALE SUPER BANTAMWEIGHTS (10)
Irma “Torbellino” Garcia (13-1-1, 2 KOs), Mexico City, Distrito Federal, Mexico 119 lbs.
Miriam “La Patrona” Avila (5-6, 2 KOs), Tlalnepantia, Mexico 121.2 lbs.

WHAT: “Cancun Boxing: Knockout’s On Fire”

WHEN: Saturday, June 4

WHERE: Grand Oasis Cancun Hotel Complex in Cancun, Mexico

PROMOTER: Pepe Gomez Boxing

BROADCAST: CBS Sports Network, digital delay, dates & times of airings to be announced soon

ANNOUNCERS: Jim “JR” Ross & Al Bernstein

INFORMATION

Twitter: @pepegomezcancun, @Neonstarmedia

Instagram: @pepegomez1

Facebook: www.Facebook.com/pepigomezquiqui, www.facebook.com/Neon-Star-Media-378687919005532/

MONTE CARLO, Monaco (June 3, 2016)- The World Mixed Martial Arts Association (WMMAA), Pan American Division has appointed Chile to host the inaugural Pan American championship October 7-9 in Santiago, Chile.

“We chose Chile for political, economic and social stability,” said Tomas Yu, President of the WMMAA Pan-American Division. “In Latin American, context of things were not going very well, and our decision was to appoint Chile to organize it. We had a tremendous turnout and the WMMAA PANAM was more than well received.”

Yu recently made the official announcement of Chile being the newest WMMAA member, as well as host of the 2016 Pan-American Championship during his visit to Santiago this week.

Seven-time MMA champion Eric “The Tiger” Castaños, who accompanied Yu, was appointed Honorary President of the Chilean MMA Federation. “I have fought for this country,” Castaños remarked, “this country has fought for me”

“It is an honor and a challenge, both having been chosen as the host country and, of course, we will live up to such an important event like the Pan-Am Championships,” WMMAA Chile President Alberto Maturana commented.

WMMAA attorney and vice president of Chile, Christian Parra, also noted, “It is an honor to be able to form the first national MMA team in history of both the sport and Chile. There is no doubt that Chile will place among the best this year.”

In a recent survey, conducted by the auditing firm of Deloitte Touché Tohmatsu Limited (also called Deloitte), indicates that wrestling and martial arts are the fastest growing markets of sport, even beating more traditional sports like soccer.

Companies around the world have started to invest in MMA, rather than investing in traditional sports like soccer. In the last 12 months, the same study indicates that products and retail brands from other sectors related to MMA showed growth of more than 30-percent in sales.

Mixed Martial Arts today are the fastest growing sport in the world, widely shifting to boxing and generating more foreign exchange in the United States than classic sports like the National Basketball Association.

MMA is a strictly regulated sport that combines the most effective techniques of all traditional martial arts and sports of modern combat, including Karate, Boxing, Taekwondo, Capoeira, sanshou, WingChun, WingTsun, Jeet Kune Do, Muay Thai, Judo, Hapkido, Jujitsu, Kickboxing, Wrestling Olympic, San Shou San Da, Jujutsu, shoot-fighting, Sambo and among hybrids are Miletick Fighting Systems combat systems, Russian Vale-tudo, Pit-fighting, Taeki-do, Kenpo, JeetKune do, Karate Gojuryu, and Kajukendo.

WMMAA is the future of MMA! Today it governs with a strict regulation that protects the integrity of the athlete, while ensuring public entertainment.

MMA is fought in a cage in which competitors must have proficiency in three combat disciplines, plus a very full fitness, a specifically balanced diet that allows them to absorb shock, cushion falls, defend Force , flexibility and agility are the essential physical qualities; And, perseverance, courage, a good heart, a lucid mind and spirituality foolproof.

WMMAA judges are highly qualified, internationally recognized and certified, according to WMMAA official regulations, and with an unbiased database of international officials.

Information

www.WMMAA.org
https://www.facebook.com/WMMAA-665064310170463/
www.youtube.com/user/TheWMMAA
www.wmmaa-chile.com
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Light heavyweight contender Sullivan Barrera (17-1) has been back in the gym for several weeks as he eagerly awaits the phone call that will give him his next assignment. Barrera is looking to bounce back from his first career loss which took place in March against Andre Ward. There is no shame in losing to a top three pound-for-pound fighter and Barrera is ready for any of the top names in the division.

“I took a couple weeks off after the Ward fight but now I am back at it and ready for the next challenge. I made some mistakes in the Ward fight and we are working on correcting them,” said Barrera.

The 34-year-old Cuban enjoyed a great run with world class trainer Abel Sanchez that included six straight knockout victories. After much thought and consideration, Barrera and his manager Luis Molina decided to enlist the services of Derik Santos. One of the reasons for the move is the close proximity of Santos’ training facility in Boca Raton, Fla. to Barrera’s residence in Miami.

“I want to thank Abel for all that he has done for me. I just feel at this point in time Derik is a better fit for me,” Barrera explained.

Santos may not be as well known as Sanchez, but he has had great success as the former assistant trainer of Sergey Kovalev underneath John David Jackson. He still assists Jackson with Chris Algieri, Curtis Stevens and Bryant Jennings and is the head trainer of several other fighters as well.

The trainer and fighter decided to work with each other for a couple weeks and they clicked so they decided to make the trial run permanent.

“I’d like to thank Luis Molina and Sullivan Barrera for giving me the opportunity to lead the team. As for me, I’ve worked for many years as the main assistant trainer for John David Jackson and for many top contenders and world champions including Sergey Kovalev.

“He is my mentor and I still enjoy a great working relationship with him as well as him being a close friend. I was the assistant trainer for Kovalev for a little over 3 years and was blessed to be able to help him win world championships,” said Santos.

There still isn’t a time table set for Barrera’s return to the ring but he admits to being shocked that he hasn’t received any offers.

“I am ready for any of the top fighters anytime. I am very confident my team will secure a top five opponent but I’m surprised that with my high ranking that no one has reached out to us to make a fight,” Barrera stated.

Saturday’s HBO Boxing After Dark doubleheader telecast begins at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT.

Opening up the telecast from the StubHub Center in Carson, CA., is a 10 round featherweight matchup between Julian Ramirez and Abraham Lopez.

The main event of the evening, a 12-round super featherweight title bout, features Francisco Vargas defending his crown against Orlando Salido in what is expected to be all out slugfest.

Official Weights from Carson:

Francisco Vargas: 129.6 lbs.
Orlando Salido: 130 lbs.

Julian Ramirez: 125.4 lbs.
Abraham Lopez: 125.6 lbs.

Join the conversation on Twitter: #VargasSalido

MAIN EVENT – VACANT M-1 GLOBAL LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP – 5 X 5
ALEXANDER “Iron Capture” BUTENKO (40-11-2, M-1: 7-1-0), Ukraine 154 ½ lbs. (70.3 kg)
vs.
ARTIOM DAMKOVSKY (20-9-0, M-1: 10-6-0), Belarus 154 ½ lbs. (70.2 kg)

FEATHERWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
IVAN “Buki” BUCHINGER (30-4-0, M-1: 5-0-0), Slovakia 144 lbs. (65.6 kg)
vs.
MIKHAIL KOROBKOV (9-1-1, M-1: 0-1-0), Russia 145 lbs. (65.8 kg)

WELTERWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
SHAVKAT RAKHMONOV (5-0-0, M-1: 3-0-0), Kazakhstan 169 lbs. (76.8 kg)
vs.
MARCELO BRITO (13-7-0, M-1: 0-1-0), Brazil 169 lbs. (76.8 kg)

MIDDLEWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
TALEKH NADZHFADE (4-1-0, M-1: 1-0-0), Czech Republic 184 lbs. (83.6 kg)
vs.
FELIPE “Biggi” NSUE (11-9-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Spain 182 lbs. (82.8 kg)

HEAVYWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
ZAUR GADZHIBABAYEV (4-1-0, M-1: 2-0-0), Czech Republic 256 ½ lbs. (116.5 kg)
vs.
LAZAR TODEV (2-2-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Russia 223 lbs. (101.3 kg)

PRELIMINARY CARD

LIGHTWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
ZALIMBEG OMAROV (6-1-1, M-1: 3-0-1), Russia 140 ½ lbs. (63.9 kg)
vs.
MIKHAIL SYRBU (4-1-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Moldova, 139 lbs. (63.3 kg)

HEAVYWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
EVGENI MYAKINKIN (13-5-0, M-1: 1-1-0), Russia, 223 ½ lbs. (101.5 kg)
vs.
EVGENI GURYANOV (8-5-0, M-1: 1-2-0), Ukraine, 222 ½ lbs. (101.0 kg)

FEATHERWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
BAIR SHTEPIN (3-0-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Russia, 134 ½ lbs. (61.2 kg)
vs.
AZAMAT ZHANTUDUEV (1-1-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Russia 134 lbs. lbs. (61.0 kg)

FEATHERWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
VADIM “Bad Santa” MALYGIN (6-1-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Russia, 134 ½ lbs. (61.0 kg)
vs.
IBRAGIM NAVRUZOV (2-0-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Russia 134 lbs. (61.0 kg)

WHEN: Saturday, June 4, 2016

WHERE: Orenburg City, Russia

PROMOTER: M-1 Global

LIVE STREAM: www.m-1global.tv (11 a.m. ET / 8 a.m. PT in USA)

Information

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Bristol, PA (June 3, 2016) – THIS Saturday night June 4th, a brand new boxing series will be launched as D and D Promotions presents its inaugural “Rumble at the Rink” Boxing series that will take place at The Grundy Arena in Bristol, Pa.

Scheduled to appear in the eight-round main event will be super middleweight Derrick Webster taking on Lenwood Dozier (9-10-2, 4 KO’s)

Webster of Glassboro, New Jersey has a record of 19-1 with 10 knockouts and will be looking to get back in the win column after an eleven-month layoff.

Webster won his first nineteen bouts, which was highlighted by a 22-second knockout over 23-1 Obodai Sai. He is coming off his first professional blemish when he lost a unanimous decision to undefeated Arif Magomedov on July 17, 2015.

Webster has been keeping busy since the loss as he appeared in the critically acclaimed “Creed” movie and is he got a co-starring role in the yet-to-be-released film “Bad Boxer.”

Yet, with all that he has going on, Webster has been thinking about his ring return.

“I never have had my fire un-lit. That fight with Magomedov, there was a lot going on. I had to lose about 40 pounds. The fight was on and off several times, so most of my camp, I was trying to lose weight. I made a mistake trying to fight at 160 pounds. That fight was over before it started. I wanted to rematch him and the way that I look at it is that he wasn’t more talented, he was just healthier going into the fight,” said Webster.

Webster says that he won’t go below 163 pounds.

“I have to get the fights where It’s healthy for me. I still am having trouble getting fights. It’s been this way since the beginning being that I am a tall southpaw.”

In the time off, Webster has had time to work on his growing portfolio. He has several successful business ventures.

“I am the bank,” continued Webster as was referencing his “Take it to Bank” nickname. “I own 2 home improvement businesses, a property management business, I act, I model and I sing.”

“I have been working hard. Despite the loss, I know I am the baddest southpaw around and he has not fought anyone like me.”

Scenes from this fight will be filmed for “Bad Boxer.”

In Dozier, he will be facing a battle tested veteran who has faced former world champion Yuri Foreman, as well as top prospects Javier Molina, Patrick Day, Prichard Colon, Yudel Jhonson &Jose Peralta Alejo.

Also scheduled to appear will be super welterweight Elijah Vines (1-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia taking on Jordan Rosario(0-4) of Jersey City, NJ.

Super bantamweight Vidal Rivera (3-0, 3 KO’s) of Camden, New Jersey taking on Brian Santos (0-0-1) of Vaja Baja, Puerto Rico.

Two-time National Golden Gloves champion Mike Hilton (1-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia will fight Dave Valekyo (4-7) out or Neptune, NJ,

There will be 6 high-level amateur bouts.

Tickets for this special evening are Tickets for this special evening are $150 (VIP–Food and beverage is included), $100, $75, $50 & $30 and can be purchased by calling Dave Price at 267-246-7182 or Doc Nowicki at 609-923-3982

The Grundy Arena is located at 475 Beaver Street in Bristol, PA

At today’s official weigh-in at the Bierkeller in Liverpool, undefeated WBO World Super-Welterweight Champion Liam Smith and Montenegrin challenger Predrag Radosevic both hit the weight on the scales ahead of tomorrow’s world title showdown at the Echo Arena.

Scouse hero Smith, 22-0-1 12 KO’s, and WBO European Champion Radosevic, 30-1-0 11KO’s, headline tomorrow’s mouth-watering night of action, live and exclusive on BoxNation. Smith, who makes the second defence of his world title, hit the scales bang on 11 stone while his challenger Radosevic came in at 11 stone 13lbs.

Speaking afterwards Smith said: “All the talking is over and now it’s time to get it on in the ring. I’ve put everything into my training and I’m looking forward to retaining my world title in front of my home crowd at the Echo Arena.”

Radosevic said: “My training camp has gone perfectly and now I’m ready to get in the ring and become a world champion. I’ve not come all this way to leave empty-handed. I’m fighting Smith in his own city but I’ll be taking the belt home with once I’ve beaten him.”

EBU European Bantamweight Champion Ryan Farrag tipped the scales at 8 stone 6lbs ahead of his first defence of the title against Karim Guerfi. The French mandatory challenger, 23-3-0 6 KO’s, also hit the scales at 8 stone 6lbs.

South African IBF International Bantamweight Champion Zolani Tete came in at 8 stone 5lbs ahead of his defence against Mexico’s Victor Ruiz. Challenger Ruiz, 21-5-0 15 KO’s, came in slightly lighter at 8 stone 4lbs.

Also weighing in at the Bierkeller was Liverpool’s Tom Stalker who challenges Antonio Joao Bento for the Vacant WBO Lightweight Championship. ‘The Captain’ weighed in at 9 stone 8lbs with Bento coming in at the same weight.

NEW YORK (June 2, 2016) – WBC No. 5-ranked lightweight contender Franklin Mamani will face No. 1-ranked lightweight Dejan Zlaticanin for the vacant WBC 135-pound title on Saturday,June 11, live on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from The Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, N.Y.

Mamani (21-2-1, 12 KOs), who is the leading available contender in the WBC rankings, replaces the injured Emiliano Marsili, who pulled out of the fight on Tuesday with an illness.

Mamani, of La Paz, Bolivia, was in camp training to fight Chad Bennet for the WBC Silver Lightweight World Title in early July. Now, the 29-year-old Mamani gets a shot at the vacant WBC Lightweight World Championship in his U.S. debut. The aggressive-minded Mamani has won 10 straight, including his last three by knockout.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Banner Promotions, Inc., are priced at $85, $60, $45 and $35 and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Turning Stone Box Office, by calling 877.833.SHOW, or online at Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com).

In the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING main event, Ruslan Provodnikov (25-4, 18 KOs), a former WBO Junior Welterweight World Champion, and former world title challenger John Molina (28-6, 23 KOs), of West Covina, Calif., will face-off in a 12-round super lightweight bout. In the June 11 co-feature, undefeated former 154-pound world champion and 2008 U.S. Olympian Demetrius Andrade (22-0, 15 KOs), of Providence, R.I., will face Willie Nelson (25-2-1, 15 KOs) of Cleveland, Ohio, in a 12-round WBC Super Welterweight Title Eliminator.

Also on June 11, former world title challengers, Willie Monroe Jr, (19-2-0, 6 KOs), and John Thompson, (17-2-0, 6 KOs,) will meet in a 10-round middleweight bout in the main event on SHOWTIME EXTREME® (7 p.m. ET/PT). In the SHOWTIME BOXING on SHO EXTREME® opener, heavyweight Andrey Fedosov (28-3, 23 KOs) takes on Mario Heredia (11-1, 9 KOs, 1-2 in WSB) in a 10-round heavyweight bout.

Turning Stone Resort Casino is no stranger to hosting high caliber nationally televised boxing events. Last year, Turning Stone hosted the epic battle between Provodnikov and Matthysee, selected over arenas in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Miami. When Provodnikov returns to Turning Stone on June 11th, it will mark Turning Stone’s 18th nationally-televised boxing event, cementing the resort as a mecca for knockout fights. Located in Upstate New York, Turning Stone is an award-winning destination resort, offering world-class amenities including four hotels, 21 restaurants and dining options, two luxurious spas, five beautiful golf courses, and several bars, cocktail lounges and nightlife venues.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, follow on Twitter @SHOSports, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.

Visit Banner Promotions at www.banner-promotions.com, follow on Twitter at @BannerBoxing, follow on Instagram at @BannerBoxing, become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BannerPromotions, follow on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/banner-promotions-inc-?trk=biz-companies-cym, and watch on Youtube at www.youtube.com/user/bannervideo.

For Turning Stone Resort Casino: www.turningstone.com ; Twitter: @turningstone ; Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TurningStoneResort/

PETER RIVERA: It is an incredible fight for Rocky Martinez. It has been an opportunity we have been looking for a long time. As everyone knows, Rocky Martinez has already been a world champion three times. He has a lot of experience and he has been looking for this type of opportunity. Being the main event on HBO will give him a lot of exposure and a win over Lomachenko will be incredible for his career. In our camp, we are really confident about this fight — confident that we can win this fight. Rocky is the bigger guy and the guy with the experience and he is hungry. Also to fight on the weekend of the Puerto Rican Day Parade is an incredible thing for Rocky Martinez.

ROCKY MARTINEZ: I think it is a great fight for me. Many people don’t believe that I can beat this guy but I feel that I am the man in this fight. I am the stronger guy and have the experience and I prepare myself very well physically and mentally and I am ready for this fight.

What kind of challenges does Lomachenko bring to the ring?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: I think he will come into the fight and try to move a lot and try to box a lot and try to make me look bad in front of my people. But I have made all of the adjustments for that and I will be ready for him.

How do you feel fighting as the main event on Puerto Rican Day Parade weekend?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: I am very happy to be on this show on the day before the Puerto Rican Day Parade and to fight in New York is incredible. I will win the fight on Saturday and give the victory to all of my Puerto Rican fans — I’m very happy

Is this the biggest fight of your career?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: This is one of the biggest fights. I think this will be the fight that really helps me to go to another level. It is not an impossible fight for me. I think I can win this fight.

You had an injury prior to you last scheduled fight. Are you 100% now?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: I feel fine with my hands and everything is OK right now. These things happen in boxing. You use your hands all the time in boxing so it is very common that something like this can happen. I am ready and I am 100% for the fight on June 11.

PETER RIVERA: We had a mandatory fight against Miguel Berchelt and the fight didn’t happen so Berchelt fought for the interim world title and won. Berchelt became an Interim World Champion and is no longer the mandatory challenger. As an interim champion he will fight the champion at some time but not urgently. Bob and HBO came with this opportunity and we liked it and we said let’s make this fight happen, then if we need to fight Berchelt we will fight him.

Who do you think will win Salido-Vargas?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: It’s definitely going to be a great fight — two warriors in the ring. These two guys will leave everything in the ring that night and it is a very even fight. I don’t really have a winner. It’s a very even fight.

Do you think Vargas should be in the fight since he failed the drug test?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: I don’t really have anything to say about that. I really don’t know what is going on with the guy. I don’t know who can get affected. Maybe Salido can get affected or if Vargas’ team knows what they are doing. But I don’t really have anything to say about that situation.

All the talk about Lomachenko and the chance for him to make history…does that motivate you?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: I am only thinking about beating him. I don’t care if I stop his dreams or whatever. I just have in my mind that I have to beat him and to be ready to beat him and I’m sure that I’m going to win the fight. I don’t care right now if he is thinking that he is going to make history or something like that.

You have been boxing more technically in the past couple of fights. Are you going to go back to being a pressure fighter again?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: I am going to fight smart. I am going to box when I have to box and I am going to pressure him also. I know that Lomachenko knows how to hold and he knows how evade punches to get good position and get me out of good position. We are working on a full plan against Lomachenko.

You have had some trouble making the weight in your last couple of fights. How is that now?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: That fight was in Las Vegas. This fight is much closer to Puerto Rico. I can fly in for this fight on Tuesday and get accustomed to the new surroundings. It is easier for me to make weight because I am in Puerto Rico longer. That is the best thing about this fight for me.

Did you learn anything watching the last Lomachenko fight?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: Yes, the key to the fight is not letting Lomachenko think. You have to pressure him and attack him because he is a very good technical boxer and he knows how to attack. So when he wants to come in you have to be smart about it and let him come in and exchange but the key is attacking the body and not let him think.

What do you think about the comments made by Lomachenko on Wednesday?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: Lomachenko can say whatever he wants. I just prepare myself for this fight. I am ready. He can feel confident but I am very confident. I am the champion and I will be ready for the fight on Saturday, June 11

How was training camp and sparring with Jose Pedraza?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: One of the best things that happened to me was having Jose Pedraza as a sparring partner. He really helped me a lot. He’s a great fighter and we worked very hard all training camp and once again it’s great to have a fighter like him to help me. I will have no excuses on June 11. I am 100% ready and I’m very confident that I’m going to win this fight. He helped me a lot.

ROCKY MARTINEZ: We worked on a lot of different things that are part of my plan for this fight so I can’t really say too much about it because basically that is my fight plan. We worked on a lot of ideas and we practiced a lot of things and everyone will see it on Saturday, June 11.

If your opponent failed a drug test, would you continue with the fight?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: It would definitely be an illegal fight if that happened. Maybe I wouldn’t fight a guy that failed a drug test but you never know, this is a business and people are paying money and maybe they are paying more money than you would get otherwise so that affects it.

PETER RIVERA: Definitely it depends upon the kind of drug test that the guy really failed. As a promoter, I would look at how much of an advantage the drug would give the fighter. Maybe it’s the kind of drug that he is using to lose weight. I would check the kind of drug that it is and why the guy is using it and based on that I would make a decision. But in this sport we don’t need these types of decisions. It’s really weird because Vargas was the one saying to Salido about this [testing], then he is the one that it happened to.

So you understand why Salido went forward with the fight?

PETER RIVERA: Yes.

Do you have drug testing for this fight?

PETER RIVERA: For this fight we have the testing that the commission does before and after the fight.

Where does Lomachenko rank among your opponents?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: He is one of the best fighters that I will fight in my life. He’s a great fighter and he is on the top of my list.

What would it mean to win this fight, it being Puerto Rican weekend on top of it being Lomachenko?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: It will be a great victory for me and for my country. All of my fellow Puerto Rican fighters like Tito Trinidad and Miguel Cotto have fought on that day. For me it will be a great victory to beat Lomachenko on the day before the Puerto Rican Day Parade.

Will you watch the Vargas-Salido fight?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: I hope to watch it if I don’t fall asleep because I go to bed early. But if I go to bed early I will record it and watch it the next day so I may not see it live but I will see it.

Where does Rocky stand in Puerto Rican boxing lore?

PETER RIVERA: Everybody knows that Puerto Rico has a big boxing culture and everybody knows the fighters on the island because Rocky has been a world champion three times. It’s very difficult to be a world champion once so just imagine how hard it is to be champion three times. People recognize him as a great fighter and someone that has a lot of guts and a guy that leaves everything in the ring. That’s why people love him a lot. He is also a humble person and a nice guy so people like him a lot and all of Puerto Rico will be supporting him on June 11.

Is there an issue with Rocky’s weight?

PETER RIVERA: No, no one has asked that and no, we don’t have problem with that. He answered that question in Puerto Rico yesterday about what Lomachenko said, but Rocky is a professional guy and he’s been at 130 his whole life. He is already 135 so he is very close to the weight so he is doing very well. We don’t see any problem at the weigh-in on June 10, the day before the fight. Whoever is talking about that rumor — it is not really true — we don’t have any problem. Not with us.

Do you think Rocky would do what Salido did – try to rough Lomachenko up a little bit?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: No, no ,no, I’m not going to do that. I have my own fight plan for that night and of course I can’t tell you what I am going to do because that is part of my plan but I don’t plan on doing anything like that.

Do you consider yourself or Pedraza the best 130-pounder in Puerto Rico?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: Both of us are great champions. We have different styles so we are different fighters so I can’t tell you who is the best between us.

Is that a fight that could happen — a title unification?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: I don’t really think that I could fight him in the future. I think he is the only fighter that I would not fight because we are really close friends. I understand this is a business but that is one fight I would not take.

In closing…

ROCKY MARTINEZ: Once again I am very happy for this opportunity and on June 11 boxing fans and all fans in Puerto Rico will see me as world champion again and I will remain champion on that night.

****************************

Three-time world champion ROMAN “Rocky” MARTINEZ (29-2-3, 17 KOs), from Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, and World Boxing Organization (WBO) featherweight world champion VASYL LOMACHENKO (5-1, 3 KOs), of Odessa, Ukraine, will go mano a mano for Martinez’s WBO junior lightweight world title and the boxing gem of Puerto Rico, FELIX “El Diamante” VERDEJO (21-0, 14 KOs), of San Juan, Puerto Rico, will risk his WBO Latino lightweight crown, undefeated record and No. 2 world rating against JUAN JOSE MARTINEZ (25-2, 17 KOs), of Mexico City, Mexico, in the co-main event of a championship doubleheader Next Saturday! June 11 — one day before the famed Puerto Rican Day Parade — at The Theater at Madison Square Garden. The two bouts, scheduled for 12 and 10 rounds, respectively, will be televised live on HBO beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT. The non-televised undercard will feature the U.S. debut of two-time Olympic gold medalist and three-time World Amateur Champion ZOU SHIMING (7-1, 2 KOs), from The Peoples Republic of China. Zou will be defending his WBO International flyweight title and No. 2 world rating in a 10-round bout against JOZSEF AJTAI (15-2, 10 KOs), of Hungary.

The six gladiators boast a combined record of 102-8-3 (63 KOs) — a winning percentage of 90% with over 60% of their victories coming by way of knockout.

Promoted by Top Rank®, in association with Puerto Rican Best Boxing, Diamante Promotions, SECA and Madison Square Garden, remaining tickets to the Martinez vs. Lomachenko / Verdejo vs. Martinez championship doubleheader are priced at $300, $200, $100, $50 and $35. Tickets can be purchased at the Madison Square Garden Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster charge by phone (866-858-0008), and online at www.ticketmaster.com and www.thegarden.com.

For fight updates go to www.toprank.com, or www.hbo.com/boxing, on Facebook at facebook.com/trboxing, facebook.com/trboxeo or facebook.com/hboboxing, and on Twitter at twitter.com/trboxing, twitter.com/trboxeo, or twitter.com/hboboxing.

Muhammad Ali is in the hospital battling a respiratory illness, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

“He is being treated by his team of doctors and is in fair condition,” said family spokesman Bob Gunnell said in a statement datelined from Phoenix, where Ali lives. “A brief hospital stay is expected. At this time, the Muhammad Ali family respectfully requests privacy.”

LONDON (3 JUNE) Undefeated heavyweight Nathan Gorman, great-nephew of Bartley Gorman, the ‘King of the Gypsies’, is seasoned beyond his nineteen years and, on July 9 at the Manchester Arena, will use all his fighting DNA to impress his biggest audience yet.

Born and raised to fight, Gorman now stands at six-foot-four, weighs eighteen stone, is unbeaten in four professional bouts, and intends to make it five from five on the undercard of the world heavyweight championship blockbuster between Tyson Fury and Wladimir Klitschko.

“It’s an amazing opportunity for me, a great platform,” he says. “I’ll be boxing in front of loads of people and everybody at home will be watching this event. It’s mad to think I’m now part of it. It’s a great chance to make a statement and get noticed by a lot of people; I plan on taking it with both hands.

“I’ve imagined what it will feel like every day. I have no idea what it will actually feel like, though. I just have to believe that a ring’s a ring and a crowd’s a crowd and, once I’m in there, I’ll be able to blank out my surroundings and get down to business. I’ve got a job to do. Even if I was fighting in my back garden, I’d still to look to put on a show.”

Everywhere Gorman looks, he tends to find inspiration. Tyson Fury, a distant relative, is his favourite fighter, and a man he considers the blueprint, while Ricky Hatton, his coach, was once one of Britain’s finest world champions and a man well-accustomed to dazzling sold-out crowds at the Manchester Arena.

“Ricky, in terms of big fight night experience, is second to none,” says Gorman. “He’s the best. You couldn’t ask for a better guy to have in your corner when fighting at the Manchester Arena. It was basically his second home.

“Not only that, every day I’m in the gym with Ricky I’m learning something new. He gives me so much confidence. I’m just happy he believes in me. We both believe I can go all the way.”

Gorman first went to the boxing gym at the age of eight, though admits the sole intention was to “mess about”, before trying again at fifteen, this time with a greater degree of seriousness. It wasn’t long – just eleven bouts, in fact – before he was winning the Junior ABAs and making his mark at the World Youth Championships.

“I achieved a lot in those eleven amateur fights but always knew I was going to gain more experience as a pro,” he says. “I’ve had four fights since December. I’ve been busy. It’s also more suited to me, style-wise, to be a pro and learn as a pro. That’s why I made the switch from the amateurs to the pros at a young age.”

On July 9 at a packed-out Manchester Arena he’ll embark on the next phase in his development. He’ll be asked to hold it together in front of thousands of fans eager to see him live up to the Gorman surname.

“Travellers are excelling in the pro game right now and I’m looking to continue that success,” says Gorman. “We’ve got two world champions (Tyson Fury and Billy Joe Saunders) in two of boxing’s best weight divisions (heavyweight and middleweight), and Hughie Fury is also on the verge of a world title shot in the next twelve months. We’ve got other traveller lads coming through as well. It’s all looking good.

“Fighting is part of us all. We’re brought up with it. My uncle was Bartley Gorman. I come from fighting stock.”

As for the July 9 main event, Gorman, of course, sees only one winner.

“I reckon Tyson will stop Klitschko late on, probably in round ten or eleven,” he predicts. “I think there will be more action this time because Tyson now knows Wladimir’s style and he’ll take confidence from beating him in November. I think he’ll set out to hurt him in the rematch.

“I like watching Tyson at present. He’s a character, you don’t know which version of him will be in the ring – southpaw or orthodox. Tyson has brought the division back to life and it’s an exciting time to heavyweight.”

*** For tickets to REPEAT OR REVENGE: Fury vs. Klitschko 2, please visit eventim.co.uk or call 0844 847 8000 ***

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