VIDEO: Katie Taylor vs Chantelle Cameron Weigh In




TAYLOR VS. CAMERON WEIGHTS AND RUNNING ORDER

6 x 2 mins International Flyweight contest
MAISEY ROSE COURTNEY 112.1 lbs v KATE RADOMSKA 109.7 lbs
(Eltham, England)                                  (Waterford, Ireland)

followed by

8 x 3 mins International Welterweight contest
PADDY DONOVAN 148.1 lbs v SAM O’MAISON 149.3 lbs
(Limerick, Ireland)                    (Sheffield, England)

followed by

8 x 3 mins vacant BUI Celtic Heavyweight Title
THOMAS CARTY 258.6 lbsv JAY MCFARLANE 283.7 lbs
(Dublin, Ireland)                      (Glasgow, Scotland)

19:00 LIVE ON DAZN

followed by

10 x 3 mins International Middleweight contest
CAOIMHIN AGYARKO 159.8 lbs v GRANT DENNIS 159.3 lbs
(Belfast, Northern Ireland)           (Chatham, England)

followed by

12 x 3 mins IBO Super-Welterweight World Title
DENNIS HOGAN153.3 lbsv JAMES METCALF 153.1 lbs
(Kildare, Ireland)                    (Liverpool, England)

followed by

10 x 2 mins WBA Super-Welterweight World Title
TERRI HARPER150.8 lbsv CECILIA BRAEKHUS 153.3 lbs
(Denaby Main, England)      (Bergen, Norway)

followed by

10 x 3 mins International Lightweight contest
GARY CULLY 137.25 lbsv JOSE FELIX 137.2 lbs
(Naas, Ireland)                     (Los Mochis, Mexico)  

followed by

10 x 2 mins undisputed Super-Lightweight World Titles
KATIE TAYLOR 139.7 lbsv CHANTELLE CAMERON 139.7 lbs
(Bray, Ireland)                     (Northampton, England)  




Rhode Wars IV Weights from Cranston, RI

CRANSTON, RI – Rhode Wars IV is set to take place tomorrow after all of the fighters successfully made weight at the Crown Plaza hotel this afternoon.

Only a handful of tickets are left for the May 20th event featuring the CES debuts of James Hagler Jr. and Robert Duran Jr. as well as the return of Wilson “Ill Will” Mascarenhas at the Park Theater in Cranston, Rhode Island.  

Tickets can be purchased online at cesfights.com or thepark.com.  The event will be streamed live at SpectationSports.com beginning at 7pm EST for those watching at home.

Weights from Cranston, Rhode Island:

  • Alejandro Paulino 134 vs. Jonathan Perez 135, Lightweights
  • Wilson Mascarenhas 141 vs. Benjamin Lamptey 140, Jr. Welterweights
  • Kevin Walsh 136 vs. Marcello Williams 136, Lightweights
  • Melanie Costa 123 vs. Daisy Preston 118
  • Alcibiade Duran 155 vs. Luis Eduardo Florez 160, Middleweights
  • James Hagler, Jr. 173 vs. Leonardo Ledeira 175, Light Heavyweights
  • Michael Didino 134 vs. Joel Young 134, Lightweights
  • Calixto Ortiz 143 vs. Kevin Traynor 142, Jr. Welterweights

For more information, follow CES Boxing on FacebookInstagram and Twitter at @CESBOXING.

INFORMATION

CES Boxing is one of the top promotions on the east coast.  Founded by Jimmy Burchfield Sr. in 1992, CES has promoted several world class fighters, including Jamaine Ortiz, Juiseppe Cusumano, Hank Lundy, Vinny Paz, Peter Manfredo, Mariusz Wach, Jason Estrada, Matt Godfrey, and Ray Oliveira.  CES Boxing has promoted such superfights as “The Thriller on Triller: Tyson v Jones” and “The Contender: Manfredo v Pemberton”.




VIDEO: Haney vs Loma | UNDERCARD PRESS CONFERENCE




Press Conference Notes: Andrew Moloney and Junto Nakatani Set for World Title Showdown on Haney-Loma ESPN-Televised PPV Prelims

LAS VEGAS (May 18, 2023) – A new junior bantamweight champion will be crowned this Saturday as part of the two-fight ESPN-televised prelims to the Haney-Loma PPV at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Australia’s former world champion Andrew Moloney (25-2, 16 KOs) and Japan’s undefeated former WBO flyweight champion Junto Nakatani (24-0, 18 KOs)will collide for the vacant WBO junior bantamweight world championship,

Opening the telecast will be undefeated middleweight prospect Nico Ali Walsh (8-0, 5 KOs), grandson of Muhammad Ali, in a scheduled eight-rounder against against Ohio-born veteran Danny Rosenberger (13-9-4, 4 KOs).

Moloney-Nakatani and Ali Walsh-Rosenberger will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

The night will begin with an ESPN+-streamed undercard (6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT) featuring the return of undefeated lightweights Emiliano Fernando Vargas (4-0, 3 KOs) and Abdullah Mason (7-0, 6 KOs). Vargas, son of former world champion Fernando “El Feroz” Vargas, returns in four-rounder against Rafael Jasso (3-0, 1 KO), while Mason, a Cleveland-born southpaw, will see action in a six-round clash versus Desmond Lyons (8-2, 2 KOs).
 
The undercard also features unbeaten junior featherweight Floyd “Cashflow” Diaz (8-0, 3 KOs) in an eight-rounder and middleweight slugger Amari Jones (8-0, 7 KOs) in a six-round tilt.
 
Haney vs. Lomachenko will stream live on Top Rank on ESPN+ PPV, the event’s exclusive digital distributor in the United States, beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. Priced at $59.99 across all distributors, it also will be available via cable and satellite pay-per-view providers.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Devin Haney Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, tickets are on sale now at axs.com.

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

Andrew Moloney

“It’s amazing. This is way better than anything I could ever imagine. To fight here in Las Vegas one week after my brother {Jason} became world champion in Stockton. You couldn’t write a better story. That’s why I’m excited about Saturday. This is destiny. I’m going to become world champion.”
 
“There’s no doubt that he is a good fighter. He was a world champion. He is undefeated. He has been avoided. But as you’ve seen with me and my brother, we will fight anyone.”
 
Junto Nakatani
 
“I’ve been training hard. All that is left is to demonstrate. I want to make a big impression on Las Vegas fans and all over the world. I’m confident that I will be going home with the belt.”
 
“I was able to spar with many different types of fighters. I sparred about 300 rounds. It was a lot of experience for me.”
 
“I feel that very confident because Rudy Hernandez [my trainer] is in my corner. I want to show what I’ve learned from him and Daisuke Okabe.”
 
Nico Ali Walsh
 
“This is business as usual for my first eight-round fight. I’m prepared for 12 rounds. The rounds don’t matter. l love more rounds because it’s more experience.”
 
“It’s super special. It’s not just that it will be in Las Vegas. It’s the fact that it’s at the MGM Grand. I’m standing where I used to hang with my family and my grandfather. It brings me so much nostalgia. it makes it more powerful.”
 
Danny Rosenberger 
 
“I definitely have a lot of experience. I have a lot of fights. I may have nine losses, but don’t judge me by my past. I think my experience will give me an edge. We’ve put the work in and we’re excited to go out there and put a show on.”
 
Emiliano Fernando Vargas
 
“This is a truly a blessing. It rarely gets bigger than this, fighting at MGM Grand. This is a learning experience. We learn fight by fight. Having my father with me. Having Jorge Linares there with him, I’m learning a lot, and you will see Saturday night.”
 
“I’m only 19 years old. It’s going to get scary in a couple years. Then we’re going to get these belts.”
 
Amari Jones
 
“It means a lot. it’s another big card for the third {time} in a row. It feels good. Australia was far from home. But we got the job down. Now we’re here in Las Vegas. I moved here a couple years ago. I call it home. A lot of family will come out, and I can’t wait to put on a show for them. I improved a lot in my last fight. He was tough. It brought the best out of me. I like those types of opponents because it brings out the best out of me.”
 

Saturday, May 20

Top Rank on ESPN+ PPV (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT)

Devin Haney vs. Vasiliy Lomachenko, 12 Rounds, Haney’s Undisputed Lightweight Championship

Oscar Valdez vs. Adam Lopez, 10 Rounds, Junior Lightweight 

Raymond Muratalla vs. Jeremia Nakathila, 10 Rounds, Lightweight 
 

ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ (8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT)

Junto Nakatani vs. Andrew Moloney, 12 Rounds, Vacant WBO Junior Bantamweight World Title 

Nico Ali Walsh vs. Danny Rosenberger, 8 Rounds, Middleweight

ESPN+ (6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT)

Emiliano Fernando Vargas vs. Rafael Jasso, 4 Rounds, Lightweight

Floyd Diaz vs. Luis Fernando Saavedra, 8 Rounds, Junior Featherweight

Abdullah Mason vs. Desmond Lyons, 6 Rounds, Lightweight

Amari Jones vs. Pachino Hill, 6 Rounds, Middleweight




RDR Promotions Pro-Am Set for Friday, May 27th at The Newtown Sports and Events Center in Newtown, Pennsylvania

Newtown, PA (May 18, 2023)–On May 27th State Representative Jordan Harris Sponsors and RDR Promotions Presents, some of the best Amateurs in the country. These are the boldest of the bold, and the future of the sport. They are each putting their skills to the test as they take on the best fighters in there weight divisions. The best against the best. Pro card will start immediately after the amateur show.. So, be sure to be at the Newtown Sports and Events Center to show your support.

THERE WILL BE A PRESS CONFERENCE AT FRAME RESTAURANT (222 MARKET STREET IN PHILADELPHIA ON FRIDAY, MAY 19TH AT 2 PM

ABOUT MAY 27TH

RDR Promotions will present a loaded night of boxing on Saturday night, May 27th at The Newtown Sports and Events Center in Newtown, Pennsylvania.

The card will showcase some of the best undefeated talent in the Philadelphia area.

Heading up the card will be Paul Kroll (9-0-1, 6 KOs) of Philadelphia taking on Eduardo Rafael Reyes (11-18) of Mexico in a six-round super welterweight bout.

Kroll of Philadelphia has wins over Shinard Bunch (2-0), Luke Santamaria (11-1) and Mark Dawson (9-0-1). Kroll is coming off a draw with Marquis Taylor on February 18, 2022 in Orlando, Florida.

Reyes is coming off his best win as he got the nod over Brian Agustin Arregui (7-0) on December 9, 2022,

In a eight-round bout, Samuel Teah takes on Andrew Rodgers in an eight-round super lightweight bout.

Teah of Philadelphia is 19-4-1 with eight knockouts. The 35 year-old Teah has big wins over current world champion O’Shaquie Foster (8-0), David Gonzales (8-0-2), Maynard Allison (9-2), Kenneth Sims Jr. (13-1-1), Sonny Fredrickson (21-1) and his last bout he defeated undefeated Enriko Gogokhia (13-0-2) on March 4th in Ontario, California.

Rodgers of Elkhart, Indiana is 7-11-2 with two knockouts. The 30-year old Rodgers has quality wins over Greg Outlaw (8-0), Thomas Velasqiez (10-1-1) and Willie Shaw (14-3). Rodgers is coming off a loss to Angel Flores on January 13th in Santa Ynez, California.

In six-round bouts:

Isaiah Johnson (7-0, 5 KOs) of Sicklerville, New Jersey fights Marquis Hawthorne (8-17, 2 KOs) of Waco, Texas in a junior welterweight bout.

In Four-Round Bouts:

?Erron Peterson (3-0-1, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia battles Nissan Anderson (0-3-2) of Tampa, Florida in a middleweight bout.

Nimal Farmer (3-0, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Rah’quand McDaniel (1-1, 1 KO) of Philadelphia in a welterweight contest.

Soslan Alborov (1-2-1, 1 KO) of Philadelphia squabbles with Antonio Allen (1-15-1,1 KO) of Philadelphia in a super welterweight tussle.

Edwin Cortes (3-0) of Millville, New Jersey fights Jeffery Williams (0-1) of Philadelphia in a bantamweight bout.

Nasir Mickens (2-2, 1 KO) of Philadelphia will take on Braulio Avila (3-15, 1 KO) of Mexico super featherweight bout.

Tariq Green (2-2-1) of Philadelphia fights Courtney Williams (0-2-1) of Milwaukee in a middleweight fight.

Steve Cunningham Jr. (1-0, 1 KO) of Pittsburgh, PA takes on an opponent to be named in a junior middleweight bout. Cunningham is the son of former two-time cruiserweight world champion Steve Cunningham.

TICKETS ARE $65, $75, $125 and $175 (VIP Cocktail) and can be purchased by emailing RDRBOXING@yahoo.com




VIDEO: Katie Taylor vs Chantelle Cameron Final Press Conference




TAYLOR VS. CAMERON FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman:

“Thank you Chris and Darren, and thank you everyone for your patience. A huge media turnout here as we approach in my opinion one of the biggest moments in the history of Irish boxing. One of the biggest moments in the history of Irish sport. On Saturday night at the 3Arena Katie Taylor challenges Chantelle Cameron for the undisputed Super-Lightweight Championship of the World. Katie Taylor, former Olympic Champion, former five-time World Amateur Champion, six time European Champion, World Champion, Undisputed Champion, two division World Champion will fight in Dublin for the first time as she looks to make history and become a two-division Undisputed World Champion. Chantelle Cameron the reigning 140lbs undisputed will be looking for one of the greatest victories from an English British fighter in the history of our sport as well as she looks to create her own legacy as a great among women’s and men’s boxing worldwide. This is a tremendous fight and I think we should pay homage to both fighters for accepting this challenge. It’s so refreshing to see World Champions, undisputed champions willing to fight the very best. We don’t see it enough in boxing. When was the last time you would get a reigning undisputed Lightweight World Champion that was scheduled to fight a reigning undisputed Featherweight World Champion, with that fighter pulling out and within 24 hours the undisputed Super-Lightweight World Champion was in the fight? This is exactly what boxing needs and this fight will be epic on Saturday night in front of a sold-out 3Arena – the biggest gate in the history of the 3Arena, live and exclusive on DAZN around the world. This is a huge moment for DAZN coming off the back of some incredible events. Ryan Garcia against Gervonta Davies, Canelo Alvarez against John Ryder and the return of Anthony Joshua. Of course this weekend, KSI last weekend, going into Leigh Wood against Mauricio Lara next weekend.”

Katie Taylor:

“This is absolutely incredible, we’re only two days away from making my homecoming fight. I think that one of the things that I wanted to achieve when I first turned pro six years ago was to fight here at home. This is a nation who love their sport, who love their boxing, and for a very very small nation we’re very good at it as well. It’s amazing to be bringing big time boxing back to this nation again where it belongs. This isn’t any normal fight, this is undisputed champions versus undisputed champion. This is a very special fight, one of the biggest fights in boxing I believe. I think we’re definitely turning a new leaf for Irish boxing. Hopefully this is the first night of many here at home in Ireland. Even just looking at the public workout the other day, just looking at so many young fighters there, young girls that were watching the public workout. They’re looking up to myself and Chantelle and all of these other fighters, it’s absolutely fantastic. It’s great to be in a position where you’re influencing the next generation of fighters. They’re going to grow up with big dreams and big ambitions as well which is absolutely amazing. That’s what legacy is all about isn’t it, making the way for the next generation of fighters. Those generation of fighters are going to do even more than we’ve ever done. That’s what real legacy is all about. When I was growing up as a 9 or 10 year old having these big dreams, I didn’t have the Olympics at the time, we had so many obstacles and so many boundaries in the way. Here we are making the path so much easier for the next generation of fighters. It’s amazing. Just a few hours ago I met up with Deirdre Gogarty who was my hero growing up. She was the only female fighter I knew of at the time. Just the influence that she had on my career is amazing, I could be that for some young girl coming up in the sport as well. I saw the fight slipping away for me, the May 20th date was slipping away. I don’t use social media much but when I do use it I guess I can make a big impact. I knew that Chantelle wanted this fight as well. It was a very easy fight to make. The minute the Tweet went out a few days later the fight was actually made. Two undisputed champions facing off against each other is absolutely huge for the sport and it has all of the makings of another epic fight. I never pick the easiest challenges – I want the biggest tests and the biggest challenges. I have a chance to become a two-weight undisputed champion on Saturday evening in front of my home crowd. This is so so special.”

Ross Enamait, trainer of Taylor:

“Chantelle is obviously a tremendous fighter, undefeated versus undefeated. But Katie is as motivated as ever. She’s always wanted this fight. I know that there are people that thought she didn’t, but she’s wanted it all along. She’s firing on all cylinders and she’s ready to go. It’s great to be here, it’s special and I think it’s something that maybe we’ll look at afterwards, but up until we get the win it is just business as usual. It doesn’t really matter where we are. It’s great to be here, but I’ve been saying all along, I don’t care if we fight in a dessert with nobody there, we’re coming to get the W. The noise will be epic but she’s been there before, going back to the 2012 Olympics, we fought Serrano at Madison Square Garden, we couldn’t hear the bell ring in several of the rounds, so she’s been there before but when you’re in there fighting you don’t hear the noise, you tune it all out and you just worry about what’s in front of you. I’m sure she (Cameron is going to be aggressive. She’s big and she’s strong, and she’s busy, but Katie has been sparring 15 rounds with fresh opponents coming in every few rounds so if the plan is to wear her out, I think they’re going to need to think again. She’s seen everything, and she’s proven it time and time again. Like I said, she’s firing on all cylinders. I’m sure you’ll see the best Chantelle Cameron but you’re also going to see the best Katie Taylor.”

Chantelle Cameron:

“It’s unbelievable to be here. It feels like it was yesterday I was in Abu Dhabi thinking, ‘wow I’m undisputed World Champion, it’s not going to get bigger than this’ – I remember saying to Jamie the next day what’s next, what can I achieve now? I became undisputed – that was my dream. Fighting Katie Taylor now is my bigger goal – that’s what I always wanted. I never thought it would happen. For me this fight is bigger than becoming undisputed World Champion. Anyone in this division or round about this division has always wanted to fight Katie Taylor because she’s the pound for pound best and if you’re in boxing you want to challenge the best as well, especially if you’re a champion. You’ve got to set yourself them sort of goals and try achieve your own greatness. I’ve always wanted this fight and I didn’t think it would happen. I’m here now. I’ve got so much respect for Katie Taylor as well. When I saw that Amanda Serrano pulled out I thought Katie deserved a homecoming. What she’s done for women’s boxing, I wouldn’t be sat where I am if it wasn’t for Katie Taylor and Claressa Shields. The homecoming, I thought yeah let’s just jump in and take Amanda’s spot because I think Katie deserved this homecoming in Dublin. It was a no brainer for me. It will definitely be hostile but it’s going to be tunnel vision and I’ll be focused on the job at hand. I’ll let everything else go above my head, I’ve got one job to do and that is to win.”

Jamie Moore, trainer of Cameron:

“It certainly is. I don’t think you need me to try and sell it to you Eddie. It’s a phenomenal fight, two fighters probably at the peak of their game, willing and ready to fight each other basically at the drop of a hat. There wasn’t that much negotiations that took place in those few days from the point where Katie put that message out on Instagram. Chantelle accepted it straight away and that is how it should be. I think a lot of other fighters across the world can could take notes from the way these two have dealt with the situation. Talking about two undefeated undisputed Word Champions fighting each other – Chantelle has boxed a reigning undisputed World Champion two fights on the trot now – one above and one below. I don’t think that has ever been done as well. The calibres of fighters they are willing to fight each other with such short negotiations is something to take your hat off to. I’ve seen a difference in Chantelle this camp. She was two or three weeks into a camp to box on April 1st anyway when this came about so she was already in training mode. All of a sudden when this fight came around we saw her go up a gear, or maybe even two. People say all the time this is the best training camp they’ve had. This truly is the best I’ve ever seen Chantelle and if she’s ever going to beat Katie Taylor and give herself the best opportunity, she’s put herself in that situation. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to work out that if I tried to send Chantelle out to outbox Katie Taylor it would be crazy tactics. Who in their right mind would try and go and outbox someone of Katie’s calibre. You have to be a bit smarter than that and you have to use your best attributes. Chantelle has got some phenomenal attributes. It’s easy saying it, the hardest part is actually getting her into the positions to take advantage of her strengths against Katie. That’s going to be the battle early on. I have no doubt in my mind that Chantelle comes out victorious on Saturday. This has the potential to be one of the greatest female fights ever, in fact one of the best fights ever.”

Alfie Sharman, Vice President Marketing – DAZN:

“Thanks Eddie and thanks to everyone for coming out today and joining us in this beautiful location in the heart of Dublin. I just want to say from myself and on behalf of everyone at DAZN how proud we are to be involved in such a historic event. What a fight we have on Saturday as Eddie said. Two undisputed World Champions going head-to-head in Dublin, Katie going up in weight against Chantelle – a formidable opponent. Lots are saying this is Katie’s toughest test to date and I think that’s fair and we’re in for a cracker on Saturday. We’ve had an amazing few weeks at DAZN. ‘Tank’ Davies versus Ryan Garcia – the same night that Joe Cordina became a two-time World Champion. The we went to Mexico with Canelo Alvarez and John Ryder. Here we are now with Taylor vs. Cameron, Wood vs. Lara 2 next week and then we go into another longer period of fights with Matchroom debutant and DAZN debutant World Champion Sunny Edwards, as well as Regis Prograis and going into Claressa Shields and Edgar Berlanga all in June alone, further reconfirming DAZN purely does have the best schedule in boxing. On that note I just want to thank Matchroom, Eddie, Frank and all of the team for their continued support and putting on these fights. It takes a lot of work and we are very grateful for them to allow us to continue to provide the most value to our customers as part of their subscription.”




Champions Sports And Entertainment Presents Inaugural Fight Card on Saturday, June 17th at Bally’s Atlantic City

ATLANTIC CITY (MAY 18, 2023)–On Saturday night, June 17th, boxing returns to the Ballroom at Bally’s Atlantic City as Champions Sports and Entertainment presents Fling Boxing Father’s Day Weekend Knockout.

This will be the first event put on by the new promotion, which is led by longtime and successful promoter Sal Musumeci.

“I am so happy to be a part of this new group, and to be back in Atlantic City. I have promoted so many events on the boardwalk, and to be in Bally’s, which has staged so many big fights over the years, is the perfect place to have this card. It will be a great night as the Summer is just about to start, so the town will be packed with fans, and we expect a terrific night of boxing.”

Said Henry Grooms, executive producer, consultant, advisor, of Silverback Productions, “I am excited to work with Sal on these fights. We have worked together for over 20 years, and this show will be the start of a great relationship with Bally’s.”

Heading the seven bout card will be super lightweight Dimash Niyazov. Niyazov (14-1-3, 6 KOs) of Brooklyn, New York is scheduled to appear in the main event.

Also seeing action will be six-round bouts featuring cruiserweight Joel Shojgreen (14-5, 13 KOs) of Brooklyn; light heavyweight Victor Darocha (11-6-1, 7 KOs) of Miami and super middleweight Pierre Hubert Dibombe (21-0-1, 11 KOs) of France

Four-round bouts will see appearances by super middleweight Taiwo Afolabi (6-0, 6 KOs) of Staten Island, NY and welterweight Edward Donovan (6-0,1 KO) of Limerick, Ireland.

Opponents and more Fights will be announced shortly.

Tickets for this great night of boxing are $65, $95, and $195 and can be purchased at www.cseboxing.com

For more Information, click www.cseboxing.com or email cseboxing@gmail.com




Former Unified Lightweight Champion George “Ferocious” Kambosos Jr. Signs Multi-Fight Co-Promotional Agreement with Top Rank 

LAS VEGAS (May 18, 2023) — Former unified and lineal lightweight world champion George Kambosos Jr. has signed a multi-fight co-promotional agreement with Top Rank, who will work in conjunction with DiBella Entertainment and Ferocious Promotions to present his fights.
 
Kambosos’ ring return will be announced shortly.
 
Kambosos said, “I am extremely excited to extend and sign a multi-fight co-promotional agreement with my longtime promoter, DiBella Entertainment, and my new co-promoter, Top Rank. This is a very exciting time in my career having the backing, support and guidance from two powerhouse American promoters, as I begin my journey back to the championship. I would like to thank my co-promoters, Lou DiBella and Bob Arum, and my manager, Jim Kambosos, for getting this multi-fight deal done. ‘Ferocious’ is back to reclaim glory and give the great boxing fans the best fights against the best fighters in the world.” 
 
“George Kambosos Jr. is an exciting fighter and an engaging personality who will continue to make great fights in the lightweight division. We are thrilled that he has signed a co-promotional agreement with Top Rank,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Top Rank was involved in two historical promotions in Australia with George, and we have no doubt that there will be many more to come.”
 
DiBella said, “I am thrilled to continue DBE’s long-standing relationship with George and team Kambosos. George is the epitome of a championship-caliber fighter. He proved himself on foreign soil, became undisputed champion, fought in two of the biggest fights in Aussie boxing history, and has insisted on fighting the best. This co-promotional agreement with Top Rank presents George with prime-time US opportunities on ESPN’s expansive platform, while remaining a PPV fighter in Australia. It creates an easier road to future mega-fights against Top Rank stars. I’m happy to again partner with Bob Arum and his great company.”
 
Kambosos (20-2, 10 KOs) embarked on his pro career in 2013, venturing as a far as Malaysia, Greece, London, New York City, Connecticut, and Las Vegas in his efforts to become a top contender. His wins over former world champions Mickey Bey and Lee Selby helped propel him to the opportunity of a lifetime, a chance to capture three world titles in one night against Teofimo Lopez in November 2021. In a pitched battle that saw both men hit the canvas, Kambosos toppled Lopez via split decision, a victory that was named ESPN’s Upset of the Year. In 2022, Kambosos avoided an easy hometown defense and instead faced Devin Haney in back-to-back undisputed world title showdowns in Melbourne, Australia. Following his first career setbacks, the 29-year-old has ambitions of reconquering the lightweight division.




UNDEFEATED JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHT CHARLES CONWELL PETITIONS WBC FOR WORLD TITLE FIGHT WITH BRIAN MENDOZA

    

Los Angeles, CA (May 18, 2023) World Ranked and Undefeated Junior Middleweight Charles ‘Bad News’ Conwell, (18-0, 13 KOs), has petitioned the World Boxing Council (WBC) for a world title fight against WBC Interim Champion Brian Mendoza, (22-2, 16 KOs). Conwell is currently ranked #2 in the division by the WBC and managed by Mark Habibi and Wise Owl Boxing. He is promoted by DiBella Entertainment.

Said Conwell, “Mendoza had a tremendous knockout victory over Sebastian Fundora but my time is now. I’m ready for the challenge of fighting him and to become a world champion.”

Concurred Habibi, “We’re excited about this opportunity for Charles and look forward to working with the WBC for the fight to take place in the near future. Charles is ready to become a world champion now.”

The 25-year-old Conwell last fought on November 26, 2022 defeating hard-hitting Dominican Juan Carlos Abreu. The 2016 U.S. Olympian also holds victories over Juan Carlos Rubio, Patrick Day, Wendy Toussaint, Madiyar Ashkeyev and Courtney Pennington.

Mendoza knocked out Sebastian Fundora in spectacular fashion on April 8 to garner the world title. He has now won three fights in a row.

       




FRAZER CLARKE STEPS UP TO FACE FORMER WORLD TITLE CHALLENGER MARIUSZ WACH IN LONDON ON JUNE 16TH

LONDON, ENGLAND – (May 18, 2023) – With a resumé featuring close-fought encounters with some of heavyweight boxing’s biggest names – including two-time world heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko and former WBA world champion Alexander Povetkin – Mariusz ‘The Viking’ Wach (36-9, 19 KO’s) is one of the most experienced veterans on today’s heavyweight circuit.

Next month, the battle-tested gladiator travels to London, England on a mission to bring all of his experience to bear in an effort to halt the ascent of British heavyweight contender Frazer ‘Big Fraze’ Clarke (6-0, 5 KO’s) in its tracks at London’s historic York Hall on Friday, June 16th, live on Sky Sports.

Clarke is no stranger to pressure or challenges – having succeeded on the biggest stage in amateur boxing when he won a bronze medal for Great Britain at the 2020 Olympic Games – but the clash with Wach will test him as never before and thoroughly examine his prospects for world-stage success. 

Himself an Olympian – Wach represented Poland in the 2004 Olympic Games – Wach’s professional career has seen him consistently face the best fighters the heavyweight division has to offer, including his 2012 challenge against Klitschko for the unified world heavyweight championship. 

The challenge was unsuccessful but Wach showed his quality and has done so many times since, including in bouts with top British talents Dillian Whyte and Hughie Fury on UK soil. A hostile crowd in London will not faze Wach.

Clarke has scored a string of knockout wins since turning professional last year, showcasing  a blend of boxing finesse and ferocious power. Now Clarke is now eager for tougher tests to sharpen his arsenal as he continues his march towards the championship bouts which await him.

“I’m glad that we’re finally able to announce this fight and let people see the kind of challenges I’m looking for. Mariusz Wach is a very tough opponent, his record speaks for itself – look at the names he’s been in there with and the kind of fights he’s had with them. So I hope it’s clear to everyone now that Frazer Clarke isn’t afraid of anyone,” said Clarke.

“I’m in this game to be world champion and the pathway has always been carefully planned. A lot has been said about me lately but people don’t know what goes on behind the scenes. Myself and my promoter Ben Shalom are on the same page and we’re executing the plan step by step. I expect to have the British heavyweight championship belt round my waist by the end of the year – but first I have to handle Mariusz Wach.”

Ben Shalom, BOXXER Founder and CEO, added “This is a great fight for Frazer Clarke. Mariusz Wach is a very tough customer who has shared the ring with some of the biggest names in the sport with some memorable performances. Frazer Clarke is taking a big step up on June 16th but these are the challenges needs as he makes his way to the top.”

Dubbed ‘A Step To Greatness’, the BOXXER Fight Night at York Hall on Friday, June 16th features several hotly-tipped British fighters who are stepping up to take on serious challenges in search of wins which will move them significantly up the rankings. 

Super-lightweight prodigy Adam Azim (8-0, 6 KO’s) headlines against dangerous Ukrainian Aram Fanyan (22-1, 4 KO’s), who brings three times the professional experience, is on the edge of the EBU top ten rankings and has lost just once in 23 professional fights.

And Caroline Dubois (6-0, 5 KO’s) takes on Yanina Lescano (13-2, 4 KO’s), who many believe should rightfully be the IBO world champion. Lescano – current holder of South American Lightweight Championship – lost a narrow split-decision in a title challenge against Estelle Mossely last year which many observers felt she had won. 




VIDEO: Haney vs Loma | FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE




Press Conference Notes: Devin Haney and Vasiliy Lomachenko Ready for Saturday’s UNDISPUTED Lightweight Showdown

LAS VEGAS (May 17, 2023) – Two kings. One undisputed title.

Devin “The Dream” Haney (29-0, 15 KOs) is set to defend his undisputed lightweight championship against Ukraine’s three-division world champion Vasiliy “Loma” Lomachenko (17-2, 11 KOs) this Saturday, May 20, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Haney vs. Lomachenko will stream live on Top Rank on ESPN+ PPV, the event’s exclusive digital distributor in the United States, beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. Priced at $59.99 across all distributors, it also will be available via cable and satellite pay-per-view providers. 

The PPV undercard features a 10-round junior lightweight co-feature between two-division world champion Oscar Valdez (30-1, 23 KOs) and Adam “BluNose” Lopez (16-4, 6 KOs) in a rematch of their 2019 battle.

In the PPV opener, rising lightweight Raymond “Danger” Muratalla (17-0, 14 KOs) will take on big-punching Namibian contender Jeremia Nakathila (23-2, 19 KOs) in a 10-round clash. 

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Devin Haney Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, tickets are on sale now at axs.com.

At Wednesday’s press conference, this is what the fighters had to say:

Devin Haney

“I feel like he should have fought me four years ago. But now the time has come. It’s going to be worse for him than it would have been had we fought back then.”

“On paper, this is my toughest test. But I look to make it an easy night. I look to make it as easy as possible and come out victorious.”

“I have been calling for this fight for four years. But the time has finally come. I take my hat off to him. I respect everything that he’s done. I respect his decision to stay and defend his country. That gave me my shot to go to Australia, so it was only right that I give him the shot as well.”

“I know what he is preparing for. But at the end of the day, we’re prepared for whatever he brings to the table. If he wants to make it a dirty fight, we have answers for that.”

Vasiliy Lomachenko

Camp was hard like always. But I was very motivating. It was motivating because I understand. It is my last chance to become undisputed. So, I pushed myself in every training session. And now there are just four days left.”

“He talks about the past, but It’s hard to say things about the past. You can’t change it. Even if you talk about it, you can’t change it. Only God can change it.”

“He is a high-level boxer. He understands boxing. He knows what he needs to do. He can use his reach. He can use his feet. He can create distance. But I have a lot of experience in this sport. It will be very interesting for me.” 

Oscar Valdez

“I’m excited because it’s been one year since my last fight. I’m coming off a loss, so I’m motivated. It doesn’t matter if you lose. What matters is how you come back. I’m going to come back and make a statement.”

“This is the perfect time for the rematch. This is what I love to do. I love being in the gym. I love training. I love fighting. You’re going to see something different Saturday night.”

“Eddy Reynoso is a great trainer. We always work on a lot of things. One thing that is always clear for me is that he works on the defense.” 

“That doesn’t mean we’re not going to be offensive. We’re always going to keep that defense ready so that we don’t have any surprises.”

Adam Lopez

“I’m surprised this rematch is happening. Oscar said he’d give me the rematch after our first fight. But it never happened. We went our separate ways. But it’s coming back full circle. I think it’s great that it’s happening on this card. It’s a huge fight. People wanted to see it. I’m excited for it.”

“I’m a different fighter now. He fought me when I was 23 years old with 15 fights. I’m 27 now with 21 fights. I’ve been in there with some of the best since the fight with him. I’ve taken some losses, but I have learned from them. I’ve always taken tough fights.”

“I’m at my best. I’m in the best shape of my life. It’s a different story this time. If he thinks this is a tune-up fight, then he’s going to have a long night.”

Raymond Muratalla 

“I’m just ready to be a champ. This is nothing but hard work that we’ve been putting in. I can’t wait for Saturday. I’m trying to show people that I’m the next 135-pound champion.”

“I didn’t warm up like I usually do in my last fight. So, I got knocked down {in the first round}. But I got back up, and I got the stoppage.”

“I’m ready. I’m ready for anyone. To be the best, you have to go through these people. I’m just trying to get to the top. I’m going to take care of business this Saturday.”

Jeremia Nakathila

“I can’t wait for Saturday night to do my thing. I’m excited to be here. We are looking forward to making a statement.”

“The last time I was in Las Vegas you were all able to see what I displayed against Miguel Berchelt. This Saturday, you will see more than that. I saw that Muratalla wanted to fight me on social media. I saw him mention my name. But I want to say that he can’t handle what he called out.” 




UFC LANDS KNOCKOUT DEAL TO BRING BLOCKBUSTER BOUTS TO SYDNEY

Sydney, Australia – UFC is set to return to Sydney for the first time since 2017 after securing a four-year, multi-event agreement with the New South Wales (NSW) Government.

The landmark Australian deal will bring the world’s greatest MMA athletes to the Harbour City for three massive UFC Pay Per View events between 2023 and 2027, the first of which will be held this year on September 10, when UFC 293 takes centre stage.

UFC President Dana White said of the deal: “Australians are some of the most passionate fight fans in the world and we know these Sydney events are going to be massive.

“Sydney was the first Australian city to host a UFC Pay Per View, and we are going to bring incredible events every time we come back over the next four years.”

UFC Vice President Australia & New Zealand Peter Kloczko was joined today by NSW Premier Chris Minns and Minister for Sport Steve Kamper to announce the significant partnership.

“UFC is thrilled to be partnering with the NSW Government to bring the world-famous Octagon back to Australia’s iconic Harbour City, and it all starts with UFC 293 on September 10,” said Kloczko.

“Our events drive strong economic outcomes through industry-high visitation and marketing value by showcasing host cities like Sydney to millions of engaged fans worldwide. This commitment will also provide opportunity for our talented, world-class local athletes of New South Wales to finally compete on home turf, having proudly represented Australia across the globe.”

NSW Premier Chris Minns said: “UFC is a massive sport. This is a big win for UFC fans and the state’s economy.

“Thousands of people will fly into our state to see the biggest UFC events in Sydney in more than a decade.

“Some of the best Aussie UFC fighters were born and bred right here in NSW.

“It’s about time that we have a major UFC event back in Sydney, so local fans can watch our home-grown talent.

“We are delivering on another election commitment – one that is a major coup for NSW.”

Australia has produced some of the world’s best pound-for-pound fighters including current UFC Featherweight Champion Alexander “The Great” Volkanovski and former UFC Middleweight Champion Robert “The Reaper” Whittaker.

UFC’s popularity has been soaring globally since Sydney hosted its first event, UFC 110: NOGUEIRA VS. VELASQUEZ, at Qudos Bank Arena (then Acer Arena) in 2010.

There are now more than 700 million UFC fans across the globe, including a combined 233 million followers across UFC’s social media channels. In Australia and New Zealand combined, UFC counts more than 4.3 million fans and 6 million social media followers.

Since 2010, UFC has presented 16 live events in Australia, including sold-out shows at Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena, Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena, Perth Arena, Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Adelaide Entertainment Centre and Gold Coast Convention Centre. These events have had a combined attendance of over 280,000 fans and millions more watching on Pay Per View and broadcast television globally.

Further event information, including registration for pre-sale tickets for UFC 293 will be made available to fans at ufc.com/Sydney.

Fans intending to travel to Sydney for UFC 293 can secure their place at the event by purchasing a travel package, available now via Sportsnet Holidays at sportsnetholidays.com/ufc-293-sydney.

UFC VIP Experience packages will be available soon via On Location, UFC’s Official VIP Experience Provider. Enjoy exclusive access with an official ticket package that can feature premium seating, VIP access to weigh-ins, all-inclusive hospitality, meet-and-greets with UFC athletes and more. For more information, visit ufcvip.com to view package details.

The three events are supported by the NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency Destination NSW.

Visit UFC.com for information and content to support your UFC coverage. All bouts are live and subject to change.




QUOTES : OSCAR COLLAZO MEDIA WORKOUT

SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO (May 17, 2023) – On his historic journey to become the fastest world champion in his division, Villaba, Puerto Rico’s Oscar “El Pupilo” Collazo (6-0, 4 KOs) hosted a media workout at Wolf Elite Boxing in his native Puerto Rico. Collazo will challenge current WBO Minimumweight Titleholder Melvin “Gringo” Jerusalem (20-2, 12 KOs) of Santos City, Philippines in a 12-round fight presented in association with Miguel Cotto Promotions on the DAZN Rocha vs. Young undercard. If Collazo wins this clash, he will become the fastest Puerto Rican world champion with only seven fights, previously held by Alex ‘Nene’ Sanchez who won the same belt, the WBO Minimumweight World Title, with a record of 11-0 at the time.

Doors to the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino’s Special Events Center will open at 4:00 p.m., the Golden Boy YouTube Channel will stream the preliminary fights beginning at 4:00 p.m. PT/ 7:00 p.m. ET, and the DAZN broadcast will begin at 6:00 p.m. PT / 9:00 p.m. ET.

Here is what the world champion contender had to say:

OSCAR COLLAZO, MINIMUMWEIGHT TITLE CONTENDER:

“I feel like never in my career, have we worked so hard for this fight. I have worked very hard for my dream and these big opportunities, and on Saturday May 27, I will become a world champion for my family and Puerto Rico.”

“I’ve been in camp for the past 4 months and I have done things the right way with my team, we have taken care of every detail. We have seen every aspect of Melvin Jerusalem and I can say that I am ready, ready to put on a show on May 27 and have a solid victory.”

“I have read several things that he has said. That he wants to knock me out, that I’m not up to the level, but he doesn’t know that I’ve come this far because I’ve worked for it.”

“I don’t take that ‘trash talk’ personally, but I take advantage of it and throw away mine. This is how things heat up. I want to tell Melvin Jerusalem to get ready. He thinks I’m just another fighter, but he’s going to find the match of his life. He is fighting with the best of Puerto Rico!”

#

Rocha vs. Young is a 12-round NABO Welterweight Fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Hard Hitting Promotions. The fight is sponsored by Betonline, “BetOnline, Your Online Sportsbook Experts,” and Autozone, “Get in the Zone, AutoZone.” The fight night will take place on Saturday, May 27, live from Fantasy Springs Resort Casino and will be broadcast on DAZN worldwide.

Tickets for Rocha vs. Young are on-sale now and are priced at $95, $75, $55, $45 and $35 plus applicable fees. Tickets can be purchased at FantasySpringsResort.com or GoldenBoyPromotions.com.

Media interested in applying for a media credential can visit https://www.emccredentials.com/rocha_young Credential applications are due EOD May 22.

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




Split-T Management’s Marques Valle Takes on DeMarcus Layton in Plant City, Florida

NEW YORK (May 17, 2023)-TONIGHT in Plant City, Florida, undefeated junior middleweight Marques Valle will be back in action when he takes on Demarcus Layton in a six-round bout.

Valle, who is managed by Split-T Management, has a record of 8-0 with six knockouts. The 24 year-old has a win over Leonidas Fowlkes (2-0) and is coming off a unanimous decision win over Jerrod Tennant on February 22 in Plant City, Florida.

Laytom of Little Rock, Arkansas is 8-4 with five knockouts. The 31-year-old has wins over Eranso Garcia (5-1-1) and Jesus Almonte (7-1-2). Layton is coming off a loss to undefeated Ablaikhan Zhussupov on November 5, 2022 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Valle, who is promoted by ProBox Promotions, weighed 153 lbs. Layton was 152.8.

The bout can be seen live on ProBox TV at 7 PM ET.




JOSH KELLY STARTS WORLD TITLE CHARGE IN NEWCASTLE LIVE ON DAZN

Wasserman Boxing has joined forces with the global broadcast giant to drive Kelly’s world title pursuit, which starts at the Vertu Motors Arena next month. 

Kelly is ranked No2 in the world and knows victory over Corzo will put him within touching distance of a shot at undisputed champion Jermell Charlo. 

But the unbeaten Corzo, who sits at No9 in the standings, has global ambitions of his own and intends on ripping up the script to leave Kelly’s world title dream in tatters. 

The show also sees the return of heavyweight contender Nathan Gorman, a second pro contest for the super skilled Codie Smith as well as the latest outing for the future of women’s boxing in this country, Chloe Watson

Newcastle heavyweight Steve Robinson collides with Franklin Ignatius in a battle of big-punching big men that is not to be missed, and the popular Ben Marksby continues his super lightweight journey. 

Josh Kelly said: “A win over Corzo on June 24 in Newcastle will put me within touching distance of a shot at the world title. 

“I’m thrilled to be teaming up with DAZN and fully intend on producing a stellar performance that will be seen around the world on their platform. 

“Corzo is ranked No9 in the world and is a good fighter, but I am going to deliver a display that makes the rest of the division sit up and take note.  You don’t want to miss this one.” 

Gabriel Corzo said: “Make no mistake, on June 24 in Newcastle, Josh Kelly’s world title dream ends and mine gets closer to being a reality. 

“I am not travelling all the way from Argentina to make up the numbers.  I want my shot at the world title and Kelly is standing in my way of that, so he must be moved aside. 

“I hope Kelly’s fans are prepared for the upset that is coming.” 

Kalle Sauerland, Global Head of Boxing at Wasserman, said: “Josh Kelly is ready to take on the world and everyone at Wasserman Boxing is thrilled to team up with DAZN on his journey to the top. 

“We all watched in awe at Josh’s display against Troy Williamson late last year, where he showed, over 12 faultless rounds, just how gifted he is. 

“The unbeaten and dangerous Corzo is up next on June 24 in Newcastle, but Josh Kelly, ranked No2 in the world, is an exceptional talent and I strongly believe we are going to see something extra special, live on DAZN.”  

“DAZN are proud to be teaming up with Wasserman Boxing, adding more big nights of boxing to our best-in-class schedule’, said?Joe Markowski, CEO DAZN North America.  

“In 2023, we are determined to add to this and grow it in order to deliver for fight fans. We look forward to following Josh Kelly every step of the way on his road to a World Title shot. Tune in June 24 to watch a great night of boxing, live and exclusive on DAZN.” 

Kelly, nicknamed ‘Pretty Boy’, is embarking on one of British boxing’s most compelling comeback stories of recent times as the 29-year-old continues to rise from his defeat to David Avanesyan 

The gifted 2016 Olympian was written off and dismissed by many following the stoppage loss, but December’s masterclass British title win over Williamson capped the first stage of his return and proved the critics wrong. 

And on June 24, live on DAZN, the Sunderland AFC fan has the chance to take a huge step towards securing a world title shot. 

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

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

?? 

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

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




Top Rank Presents Undisputed Lightweight Championship: Devin Haney vs. Vasiliy Lomachenko

Top Rank Boxing on ESPN: Haney vs. Lomachenko will be live this Saturday, May 20, at 10 p.m. ET/ 7 p.m. PT in English and Spanish on ESPN+ PPV, exclusive digital distributor in the U.S.  The pay-per-view can be purchased on ESPN+ PPV for $59.99, separate streaming subscription required. More information here. The event takes place at MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada. 

In the much-awaited main event, two of boxing’s pound-for-pound best will battle for lightweight supremacy as Devin “The Dream” Haney (29-0, 15 KOs) defends his undisputed crown against Ukraine’s three-division world champion Vasiliy Lomachenko (17-2, 11 KOs).

Haney will fight in the U.S. for the first time since defeating George Kambosos Jr. in Australia twice last year to capture and retain the undisputed championship. The 24-year-old is set to make a historic defense of his four championship titles in front of an adopted hometown crowd.

Lomachenko is a two-time Olympic gold medalist and a former three-division world champion who is widely considered to be one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world. The 35-year-old is considered a Ukrainian hero and took an 11-month hiatus from boxing to serve in a territorial defense battalion for his country.

On the PPV Undercard are two high-stakes matchups:

The 10-round junior lightweight co-feature will see former two-division world champion Oscar Valdez (30-1, 23 KOs) taking on Adam “BluNose” Lopez (16-4, 6 KOs) in a rematch of their 2019 battle.
 
In the 10-round PPV opener, undefeated American lightweight Raymond “Danger” Muratalla (17-0, 14 KOs) looks to level up against former title challenger and big-punching Namibian Jeremia Nakathila (23-2, 19 KOs) who stopped former long-reigning junior lightweight world champion Miguel Berchelt in his last outing.

Prior to the PPV event, ESPN and ESPN+ will feature the vacant WBO junior bantamweight world title showdown between Australia’s former world champion Andrew Moloney (25-2, 16 KOs) and Japan’s undefeated former WBO flyweight titlist Junto Nakatani (24-0, 18 KOs).  The top of the broadcast marks the return of undefeated middleweight prospect Nico Ali Walsh (8-0, 5 KOs) grandson of Muhammad Ali, taking on Danny Rosenberger (13-9-4, 4 KOs) in an eight-rounder.

The undercard will stream exclusively on ESPN+.

Joe Tessitore will call the action ringside with analysts Andre Ward, a Hall of Famer and 2004 U.S. Olympic gold medalist, and Timothy Bradley Jr., a Class of 2023 Hall of Famer.  Also on location will be Mark Kriegel, Bernardo Osuna and Crystina Poncher as reporters, and Max Kellerman, to host a special live edition of Max on Boxing on Friday.

Original Program: Blood, Sweat, & Tears: Haney vs. Lomachenko

Ahead of the May 20 championship event, ESPN will air the original program, Blood, Sweat & Tears: Haney vs. Lomachenko. The two-part series features 30-minute all-access episodes taking fight fans inside the training camps of both contenders. The program is available in English and with Spanish subtitles.

In addition to the air times below, Blood, Sweat & Tears: Haney vs. Lomachenko will also be available for replay on-demand in the ESPN App and on ESPN.com and ESPN+.

Blood, Sweat & Tears: Haney vs. Lomachenko

Date Program Network Time (ET)
Thu May 18 Part 2 ESPN2 12:30 a.m.
Part 1 ESPN Deportes* 8:00 p.m.
Part 2 ESPN Deportes* 8:30 p.m.
Part 1 ESPN2 9:00 p.m.
Part 2 ESPN2 9:30 p.m.
Fri May 19 Part 1 ESPN2 2:00 a.m.
Part 2 ESPN2 2:30 a.m.
*English with Spanish subtitles

ESPN.com

Out Thursday:

Inside the unique – and lucrative – business of Devin Haney, by Mike Coppinger

Out Friday:

Can Vasiliy Lomachenko turn the boxing world upside down … again? by Mark Kriegel

Inside the matchup between Devin Haney and Vasiliy Lomachenko, by Timothy Bradley Jr.

ESPN+, ESPN App Boxing Content: Live and Upcoming, On Demand, Studio Shows, Archives

Top Rank: Real Time Go all-access with top fighters throughout fight week as they work their way to fight night

Boxing

Top Rank

State of Boxing

Max on Boxing Max Kellerman hosts a 30-minute series weighing in on key boxing news and providing insights on the sport’s top fighters and upcoming events

Who Do U Fight 4? Get to know the next generation of Top Rank stars and learn what drives them

Follow @ESPNRingside: Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok

Haney vs. Lomachenko (All Times ET)

Date Time Event Fights Title Network U.S.
Wed., May 17 3 p.m. Top Rank PPV Press Conference (LIVE)  ESPN+
Thu., May 18 2 p.m. Top Rank Undercard Press Conference (LIVE) ESPN+
8 p.m. State of Boxing: Haney vs. Lomachenko Preview Special (LIVE) ESPN2
Fri., May 19 6:30 p.m. Max on Boxing: Haney vs. Lomachenko Preview (LIVE) ESPNEWS
7 p.m. Top Rank Boxing: Haney vs. Lomachenko Weigh-In Special (LIVE) ESPNEWS
Sat., May 20 10 p.m. Main Devin Haney (C) vs. Vasiliy Lomachenko IBF, WBA, WBC, WBO Lightweight ESPN+ PPV (English & Spanish) 
Co-Feature Óscar Valdez vs. Adam Lopez Jr.
Special Feature Raymond Muratalla vs. Jeremia Nakathila
8 p.m. Feature Andrew Moloney vs. Junto Nakatani (Vacant) WBO Jr. Bantamweight ESPN, ESPN+ (simulcast) (English & Spanish)
Undercard Nico Ali Walsh vs. Danny Rosenberger  
6 p.m. Feature Emiliano Fernando Vargas vs. Rafael Jasso   ESPN+ (English & Spanish)
Undercard Floyd Diaz vs. Luis Fernando Saavedra
Undercard Abdullah Mason vs. Desmond Lyons
Undercard Amari Jones vs. Pachino Hill

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

About ESPN+  

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




PAIR OF THRILLING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BOUTS HEADLINE UFC INTERNATIONAL FIGHT WEEKÔ

Las Vegas – UFC International Fight WeekÔ returns to Las Vegas and will feature a blockbuster world championship doubleheader, capped off by a title unification bout that will see featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski battle interim titleholder Yair Rodriguez. Also, two-time UFC flyweight champion Brandon Moreno defends his belt against long-time rival Alexandre Pantoja.

UFC® 290: VOLKANOVSKI vs. RODRIGUEZ takes place Saturday, July 8 at T-Mobile Arena with the main card at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT on ESPN+ PPV. The prelims will be available on ABC and ESPN, as well as simulcast in English and Spanish on ESPN+, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. The night’s action will start at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT with Early Prelims on ESPN+ (English and Spanish) and UFC Fight Pass.

UFC® 290: VOLKANOVSKI vs. RODRIGUEZ tickets will go on sale Friday, May 19 at 10 a.m. PT and are available for purchase at axs.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. UFC Fight Club® members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets Wednesday, May 17 at 10 a.m. PT via the website www.ufcfightclub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thursday, May 18 starting at 10 a.m. PT. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

No. 2 men’s pound-for-pound fighter Volkanovski (25-2, fighting out of Windang, NSW, Australia) returns to featherweight looking to secure his fifth successful title defense. A well-rounded grappler and striker, he holds spectacular wins against Max Holloway (thrice), Brian Ortega and Jose Aldo. Volkanovski now plans to prove he is the undisputed champion by stopping Rodriguez.

Rodriguez (16-3 1NC, fighting out of Parral, Chihuahua, Mexico) is coming off his incredible submission win over Josh Emmett in February to capture the interim title. A dynamic finisher, he also holds memorable stoppage victories over Brian Ortega, Chan Sung Jung and BJ Penn. Rodriguez now plans to dethrone Volkanovski and begin his reign atop the featherweight ladder.

Moreno (21-6-2, fighting out of Tijuana, Mexico) plans to defend his newly won title by securing his first career victory over Pantoja. Throughout his UFC run, he has secured notable victories against Deiveson Figueiredo (twice), Kai Kara-France (twice) and Brandon Royval. Moreno now plans to stop Pantoja in impressive fashion to retain his championship.

Pantoja (25-5, fighting out of Arraial Do Cabo, Brazil) hopes to repeat his past success against Moreno and achieve his dream of UFC gold. In addition to his professional and exhibition wins against the current champion, he also holds victories over Alex Perez, Brandon Royval and Matt Schnell. Pantoja now looks to put Moreno away to earn his first world championship.

Additional bouts on the card include:

  • Former UFC middleweight champion and current No. 2 ranked contender Robert Whittaker (25-6, fighting out of Sydney, Australia) takes on No. 6 Dricus Du Plessis (19-2, fighting out of Pretoria, South Africa) in a bout with title implications
  • Exciting lightweight contenders collide when No. 10 ranked Jalin Turner (14-6, fighting out of Fontana, Calif.) meets No. 11 Dan Hooker (22-12, fighting out of Auckland, New Zealand)
  • Dana White’s Contender Series signee Bo Nickal (4-0, fighting out of State College, Penn.) looks to remain undefeated when he faces The Ultimate Fighter veteran Tresean Gore (5-2, fighting out of Lawrenceville, Ga.) at middleweight
  • Former welterweight champion Robbie Lawler (29-16 1NC, fighting out of Coconut Creek, Fla.) faces Niko Price (15-6 2NC, fighting out of Cape Coral, Fla.) in a bout guaranteed to deliver fireworks
  • No. 9 ranked welterweight contender Sean Brady (15-1, fighting out of Philadelphia, Penn.) looks to halt the momentum of No. 13 Jack Della Maddalena (14-2, fighting out of Perth, Western Australia)
  • Unbeaten Yazmin Jauregui (10-0, fighting out of Guadalajara, Mexico) takes on Denise Gomes (7-2, fighting out of Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) in an intriguing strawweight tilt
  • No. 13 ranked light heavyweight contender Jimmy Crute (12-3-1, fighting out of Bendigo, Victoria, Australia) rematches Alonzo Menifield (13-3-1, fighting out of Dallas, Texas) following their majority draw in February
  • Shannon Ross (13-7, fighting out of Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia) locks horns with Jesus Aguilar (8-2, fighting out of Tijuana, Mexico) at flyweight
  • Vitor Petrino (8-0, fighting out of Santa Luzia, Minas Gerais, Brazil) looks to remain undefeated when he meets Marcin Prachnio (16-6, fighting out of Warsaw, Poland) in a light heavyweight bout
  • Kamuela Kirk (12-5, fighting out of Peoria, Ariz.) squares off with Esteban Ribovics (11-1, fighting out of Cordoba, Argentina) at lightweight
  • Christian Rodriguez (9-1, fighting out of Milwaukee, Wisc.) takes on unbeaten Cameron Saaiman (8-0, fighting out of Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa) in a bantamweight tilt

For the latest information on additional bouts for this event, please visit www.ufc.com. All bouts are live and subject to change. Please click here to apply for the event.

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About UFC®

UFC® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 700 million fans and 228 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to over 900 million TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 80 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is owned by global entertainment, sports and content company Endeavor, and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram and TikTok: @UFC.

About T-Mobile Arena

T-Mobile Arena, the 20,000-seat venue located on the Las Vegas Strip between Park MGM and New York-New York, opened April 6, 2016. The arena hosts more than 100 events annually including major headline entertainment, awards shows, UFC, boxing, basketball and other sporting events, family shows and special events. T-Mobile Arena also is the home of the Vegas Golden Knights, a National Hockey League expansion team and the city’s first professional sports team, as well as UFC’s exclusive Las Vegas arena destination. The venue, named the No. 1 venue on Billboard Magazine’s 2018 Arena Power List as well as the “Best New Major Concert Venue” by Pollstar Magazine in 2016, features 50 luxury suites, more than two dozen private loge boxes, complete broadcast facilities, and other specially designed exclusive hospitality offerings and fan amenities destined to create a guest experience second to none. Toshiba Plaza, an adjacent two-acre outdoor entertainment space, features performance stages, a variety of video screens and other interactive content and display areas. Industry-leading architect Populous designed T-Mobile Arena to meet the U.S. Green Building Council’s standards for LEED® Gold Certification. T-Mobile Arena is a privately funded joint venture between AEG and MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM). For more information, visit T-MobileArena.com or follow on FacebookTwitter and Instagram.

About ESPN+

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

About ESPN

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




WEIGHTS FROM PLANT CITY, FLORIDA

May 16, 2023, Plant City, FL – In the main event of ProBox TV’s May 17 “Wednesday Night Fights,” undefeated Otar “Pitbull” Eranosyan battles rugged veteran Edy “Dinamita” Valencia in a ten-round super featherweight bout. Wednesday’s event takes place at the ProBox Events Center in Plant City, Florida and will be streamed live on ProBox TV beginning at 8 pm ET.

In the co-feature, undefeated Darrelle Valsaint and Marcelo Bzowski will convene in a six-round middleweight bout. Additionally, Marquez Valle will lay his perfect record on the line against Demarcus Layton in a six-round clash of super middleweights. Opening the live stream will be a battle between two fighters coming off knockout wins in their pro debuts – De Von Williams vs William Davis – in a four-round lightweight bout.

10 Rounds – Super Featherweights – Main Event

Otar Eranosyan_______________________vs____________________________Edy Valencia

Miami, Florida_______________________________________________________Culiacan, MX

12-0, 6 KOs________________________________________________________20-10, 7 KOs

131.2 lbs.______________________________________________________________132 lbs. 

6 Rounds – Middleweights

Darrelle Valsaint______________________vs________________________Marcelo Bzowski

Orlando, FL________________________________________ ________Buenos Aires, Argentina

7-0, 5 KOs______________________________________________________________11-21-3

164.4 lbs._________________________________________________________________TBA 

6 Rounds – Jr. Super Middleweights

Marques Valle_________________________vs_______________________Demarcus Layton

Wesley Chapel, FL__________________________________________________Little Rock, AK

8-0, 6 KOs___________________________________________________________8-4, 5 KOs

153 lbs.______________________________________________________________152.8 lbs 

4 Rounds – Lightweights

De Von Williams_______________________vs___________________________William Davis

Fort Lauderdale, FL___________________________________________________Oakland, CA

1-0, 1 KO______________________________________________________________1-0, 1KO

145 lbs.______________________________________________________________144.4 lbs.

Tickets, starting at $50, are available HERE

How to watch: (1) ProBoxTV.com, (2) the ProBoxTV app, available on all app stores (3) ProBox TV is also available on Roku TV, Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV.

“Pitbull” Eranosyan, (12-0, 6 KOs) living and training in Miami, Florida, by way of Akhalkaki, Georgia, made his professional debut on August 20, 2020, and has not looked back. As an amateur, Eranosyan, medaled in the 2014 and 2015 European Boxing Championships, 2017 AIBA World Championships and the 2019 European games. He fought his first seven professional fights in seven months, took a three-month break, then fought seven times in the next seven months!

“Dinamita” Mercado (20-10, 7 KOs) born and raised in the boxing hotbed of Culiacan, Mexico, is a former Mexican Featherweight champion. He will be fighting an undefeated boxer for the eighth time, and against those, has a formidable two wins, four loses and a draw.

Valsaint (7-0, 5 KOs) made it to the quarter-final in the 2020 Olympic games and has become a ProBox TV staple, having fought four of his last five on the platform. His last three fights have been against tough competition – opponents with records of 14-2, 21-3, 6-1 and 12-1, a rarity for such a young fighter.

Marques Valle (8-0, 6 KOs) from Wesley Chapel, Florida, has fought all but his pro debut at the ProBox Events Center on ProBox TV. In his first six fights, only one made it past the first round, but only making it to round 2. Demarcus Layton (8-4, 5 KOs) is from Little Rock, Arkansas and also dabbles in MMA.

De Von Williams (1-0, 1 KO) was born, raised and resides in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The twenty-year-old made his pro debut on June 11 and won by fourth-round knockout. William Davis (1-0, 1 KO) is from Oakland, California.

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

Upcoming WEDNESDAY Live Boxing on ProBox TV:

May 17 – Plant City, FL;_______May 31 – México City

June 14 – Plant City, FL;______June 28 – México

July 12 – Plant City, FL:_______July 26 – México City, MX

August 9 – Plant City, FL;______August 23 – México

September 6 – Plant City, FL;___September 20 – México City, MX

Follow ProBox TV at https://twitter.com/ProBox_TV and https://www.youtube.com/c/ProBoxTV

For more ProBox TV info click here https://proboxtv.com/what-is-probox-tv/en




SUGAR RAY LEONARD AND THOMAS HEARNS TO HOST SEVEN-FIGHT NIGHT OF BOXING AT PECHANGA RESORT & CASINO ON FRIDAY, JUNE 2

On Friday, June 2, 2023, at the Pechanga Resort & Casino’s Summit in Temecula, California, MarvNation Promotions in association with Ringside Ticket Inc., will present a very special night of professional boxing, entitled “An Evening of Fights with Sugar Ray Leonard and Tommy Hearns.”

In addition to two of the greatest fighters in boxing history, Leonard and Hearns, serving as honorary hosts for the night and meeting fans, a seven-fight card will be held, featuring Orlando, Florida’s undefeated Jonathan Lopez (10-0, 7 KOs) taking on Mexicali, Mexico’s Eduardo Baez (21-4-2, 7 KOs) in an eight-round featherweight battle.

A trio of undefeated California-based fighters will also appear, as Women’s WBC Interim World Super Flyweight Champion Adelaida “La Cobra” Ruiz (13-0-1, 7 KOs) of Los Angeles will face Mexico City’s Lucia Hernandez Nunez (6-7) in a 10-round super flyweight non-title matchup; while the son of another legend, Fernando “El Feroz” Vargas Jr. (8-0, 8 KOs) of Oxnard, California, will meet Jesus Cruz Silva (6-2, 1 KO) of Monterey, Mexico.

San Diego’s own Mario “Matador” Ramos (10-0, 8 KOs) will go six super welterweight rounds against Fort Lauderdale, Florida’s also undefeated Alexander Centeno (8-0, 6 KOs).

Three more undercard bouts are also scheduled.

The all-time-great Leonard and Hearns first met in “The Showdown,” on September 16, 1981, a super fight for the WBA, WBC, and The Ring welterweight titles, won by Leonard by TKO 14. The classic fight would go on to win Ring Magazine’s 1981 Fight of the Year. The pair would meet again in 1989, this time ending in a controversial draw.

“This really is a very special night of boxing, where fans can see great fights and two living legends of the sweet science,” said Ringside Ticket Inc. President Patrick Ortiz. “I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Sugar Ray Leonard for about 25 years and Thomas Hearns for about 15 and there is nothing more exciting than meeting two of the greatest fighters, pound-for-pound, in the history of combative sports. I’m still in awe every time I meet them. Don’t miss out on this rare occasion to see great fights and these Hall of Fame fighters together one more time!”

Tickets for this very special night of boxing are available at Ticketmaster.com and the Pechanga Box Office, located next to the Pechanga Theater entrance. The fabulous Pechanga Summit is Southern California’s newest event venue.

The Pechanga Resort & Casino is located at 45000 Pechanga Pkwy in Temecula. For more information, call 877-711-2946 or visit their website. The Pechanga Summit entrance is located in the Hotel Atrium. On fight night, The Pechanga Summit doors open at 5:00 pm PT and the action starts at 6:00 pm PT. Guests 17 years of age and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

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UFC® RETURNS TO SALT LAKE CITY WITH BLOCKBUSTER REMATCH BETWEEN(#2) DUSTIN POIRIER AND (#3) JUSTIN GAETHJE FOR VACANT BMF TITLE

Las Vegas – UFC® makes its highly anticipated return to Salt Lake City, Utah with a Fight of the Year candidate that will see No. 2 ranked lightweight contender Dustin Poirier run it back with No. 3 Justin Gaethje for the vacant BMF title. The co-main event will see former UFC light heavyweight champion and current No. 3 ranked contender Jan Blachowicz look to spoil the 205-pound debut of former middleweight titleholder Alex Pereira.

UFC® 291: PORIER vs. GAETHJE 2 will take place Sat., July 29 at Delta Center (currently known as Vivint Arena) and will be available live on ESPN+ PPV. Tickets are set to go on sale to the public on Friday, June 2 and will be available through ticketmaster.com.The event is the result of a partnership with Smith Entertainment Group, the parent company of the Utah Jazz and the Delta Center, among other Utah-centric business entities, and Utah Sports Commission.

No. 13 men’s pound-for-pound fighter Poirier (29-7 1NC, fighting out of Coconut Creek, Fla. by way of Lafayette, La.) is coming off his thrilling submission win over Michael Chandler last year. A dynamic striker and grappler, he also holds spectacular victories against Conor McGregor (twice), Max Holloway (twice) and Eddie Alvarez. Poirier now looks to stop Gaethje once again and take home the BMF belt.

Former interim lightweight champion Gaethje (25-4, fighting out of Denver, Colo. by way of Safford, Ariz.) has long established himself among the most exciting fighters in MMA. A heavy-handed striker and wrestler, he has earned memorable wins over Michael Chandler, Donald Cerrone and Rafael Fiziev. Gaethje now plans to even the score with Poirier by delivering another highlight-reel KO.

Blachowicz (29-9-1, fighting out of Warsaw, Poland) intends take out another former champion in impressive fashion. Known for his “legendary Polish power,” he holds notable victories against Israel Adesanya, Luke Rockhold and Dominick Reyes. Blachowicz now hopes for a show-stopping performance to stake his claim for a title shot.

Pereira (7-2, fighting out of Danbury, Conn. by way of Sao Paulo, Brazil) looks to turn heads at light heavyweight by stopping one of the division’s most decorated athletes. A former kickboxing standout, he holds thrilling KO wins over Israel Adesanya, Sean Strickland and Andreas Michailidis. Pereira now intends to make a statement against Blachowicz to enter the light heavyweight Top 5.

Other bouts on the card include:

  • Fan favorites collide when Tony Ferguson (26-8, fighting out of Orange County, Calif.) battles Bobby Green (29-14-1 1NC, fighting out of Fontana, Calif.) in lightweight bout guaranteed to deliver fireworks
  • No. 12 ranked welterweight contender Michael Chiesa (18-6, fighting out of Spokane Valley, Wash.) locks horns with Kevin Holland (24-9 1NC, fighting out of Fort Worth, Texas) in an intriguing matchup
  • Former middleweight title challenger and No. 5 ranked contender Paulo Costa (14-2, fighting out of Contagem, MG, Brazil) returns to Salt Lake City to face surging Ikram Aliskerov (14-1, fighting out of Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia)
  • No. 7 ranked welterweight contender Stephen Thompson (17-6-1, fighting out of Simpsonville, S.C.) faces No. 15 Michel Pereira (28-11 2NC, fighting out of Tucuma, Para, Brazil) in a battle of exciting strikers
  • No. 11 ranked heavyweight contender Derrick Lewis (26-11 1NC, fighting out of Houston, Texas) aims to take back the UFC knockout record when he meets Marcos Rogerio de Lima (21-9-1, fighting out of Sao Paulo, Brazil)

Media members wishing to apply for UFC® 291: PORIER vs. GAETHJE 2 credentials may sign up here.

For the latest information on additional bouts for this event, please visit www.ufc.com. All bouts live and subject to change.

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About UFC®

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

About Smith Entertainment Group

Smith Entertainment Group (SEG) is a sports, technology, and entertainment investment group focused primarily on the state of Utah. SEG’s portfolio includes the Utah Jazz (NBA), Real Salt Lake (MLS), Delta Center, America First Credit Union Field, the Salt Lake City Stars (NBA G League), Utah Jazz Gaming (NBA 2K League), Real Monarchs (MLS NEXT Pro), the Zone Sports Radio Network, the Utah Royals (NWSL – coming in 2024), and other Utah-centric business ventures

About Utah Sports Commission

The Utah Sports Commission was created to be a catalyst for Utah in its Olympic legacy efforts and to help enhance Utah’s economy, image, and quality of life through the attraction, promotion, and development of national and international sports. Since the 2002 Olympics and Paralympics, the Utah Sports Commission has attracted nearly 900 major events to the state. The Sports Commission works closely with communities, sports entities, and organizations to provide event services ranging from the bid process, on-site logistics, volunteer coordination, sponsorships and promotional opportunities, and other related services. It is a not-for-profit 501(c)6 business league and Utah Sports Commission Foundation, a not-for-profit 501(c)3 charitable organization, is governed by an all-volunteer Board of Trustees consisting of statewide sports, business, community, and government leaders. For more information, visit www.utahsportscommission.com and follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.




Devin Haney and Vasiliy Lomachenko Make Grand Arrivals ahead of Saturday’s UNDISPUTED Lightweight Showdown 

LAS VEGAS (May 16, 2023) – Undisputed lightweight king Devin “The Dream” Haney (29-0, 15 KOs) and former three-division world champion Vasiliy “Loma” Lomachenko (17-2, 11 KOs) made their grand arrivals today in Las Vegas ahead of their showdown this Saturday, May 20, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Haney vs. Lomachenko will stream live on Top Rank on ESPN+ PPV, the event’s exclusive digital distributor in the United States, beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. Priced at $59.99 across all distributors, it also will be available via cable and satellite pay-per-view providers. 

The PPV undercard features a 10-round junior lightweight co-feature between two-division world champion Oscar Valdez (30-1, 23 KOs) and Adam “BluNose” Lopez (16-4, 6 KOs) in a rematch of their 2019 battle.

In the PPV opener, rising lightweight Raymond “Danger” Muratalla (17-0, 14 KOs) will take on big-punching Namibian contender Jeremia Nakathila (23-2, 19 KOs) in a 10-round clash. 

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Devin Haney Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, tickets are on sale now at axs.com.

At Tuesday’s grand arrivals, this is what Haney and Lomachenko had to say:

Devin Haney

“This is all a dream come true. I thank God for this every day. I watched fighters make their grand arrivals when I was a young kid. This is all a blessing, and I’m excited for Saturday night.”

“I’m going to put on a dominant victory. I’m going to go in there and impose my will on Loma and show the world how great Devin Haney really is, how versatile, how strong, how young, and how experienced I am in that ring.”

Vasiliy Lomachenko

“It will be very, very interesting. We have two different styles.”

“I believe that when you say something, you need to prove it. I have a lot of experience in boxing, and anything can happen during a fight.”

“I just think about what I need to do during a fight. And my goal is to become the undisputed champion of the world.”




VIDEO: Haney vs Loma | GRAND ARRIVALS




Legendary Lineage: James Hagler Jr. makes his CES Boxing Debut

James Hagler Jr. (3-1, 1KO) has been around boxing his entire life.  His grandfather, “Marvelous” Marvin Hagler, reigned as the undisputed middleweight champion from 1980 through 1987, making 12 successful title defenses of the title against the likes of Thomas Hearns, Roberto Duran, and John “The Beast” Mugabi.  Now it’s James’ turn to carry on the family legacy, and it begins on May 20th at the Park Theater in Cranston, RI.    

While the Marvelous one enjoyed a legendary hall-of-fame career, he unceremoniously retired from boxing after losing a disputed decision to “Sugar” Ray Leonard in 1987.  After the loss, the Brockton native moved to Italy to take up acting, never to be involved in the sport again.  

30 years later, James Hagler Jr. looks to follow in his celebrated grandfather’s footsteps.  However, boxing is not the career that Marvin Hagler would have chosen for his grandson, who he was very close with.  

“My family didn’t want me to box,” recalls Hagler Jr.  “I first learned about boxing when I was 3 years old, but when I started wanting to go to the gym, they told me that my grandfather didn’t want me to box.  He wanted me to focus on football.  He didn’t want any of us going through the boxing politics that he went through his whole career.”

Despite Marvin’s wishes, the sport runs deep in the Hagler family genes, and once James became an adult, he couldn’t ignore the boxing bug any longer and decided to embark on his own fistic career.

“I got started late as far as fighting, but I’ve been learning about boxing my whole life,” explains the 32-year-old.  “I started my amateur career when I was 24.  I had 10 fights: I won 7 and lost 3 from 2015-2019.  I turned pro at the end of 2019, but I lost a whole year because of Covid.”

Hagler has only fought 4 times in 4 years as a professional, but he recently signed a promotional pact with CES Boxing and looks to fight as often as possible.  

“I plan to be fighting in New England a lot,” says Hagler Jr. of his immediate goals.  “I don’t want to move too fast, but in 3 years I’d like to be ready for a title shot.”

Joining the CES Boxing stable under the tutelage of Jimmy Burchfield Sr., the Georgia native can finally get his career on track, and it begins with his light heavyweight bout on May 20th at the Historic Park Theater in Cranston, Rhode Island.  

“I got to New England on May 1st to finish preparing for this fight,” says an excited Hagler Jr., who credits Knuckles Demolition Services for sponsoring him during training camp.  “I’m training out of the same gym where Demetrius ‘Boo Boo’ Andrade trains in Rhode Island.  My weight is good, my stamina is there and I’m improving my skills, so I’m ready to go.  With me and Robert Duran fighting on the same card Saturday night, it’s going to be a great show.”  

James is referring to Robert Duran Jr. (11-3, 8 KOs), the son of the multi-division legend who also recently signed with CES Boxing and will make his CES debut in a junior middleweight bout on Saturday.

“Duran and I are like brothers,” explains James.  “We went through a lot in boxing as far as legacies and people using us, so we talked a lot about our similar experiences and we became close.  Our careers aren’t like Nico Ali’s and Evan Holyfield’s careers.  Ours was a lot harder, so we’re trying to get the right people around us.”

Indeed, James has now experienced some of the boxing politics that his grandfather was hoping he would avoid.  Thankfully, both he and Duran Jr. are making changes to their respective teams early enough in their careers that it’ll make a difference.  

A key part of that effort involved finding a promotional company who would work in their best interest.  Without coordinating, they both chose CES Boxing to guide their careers.  

“We didn’t know that we were signing with CES at the same time,” laughs James.  “It’s crazy – I called him up and told I’m going to sign with Jimmy, and he was like, really?  I’m about to sign with Jimmy.  We signed in the same month.”

With a promoter in tow that is active in the northeast, the Hagler name will once again ring bells across New England.  The question on every boxing fan’s mind will be, however, does James fight anything like his famous grandfather?

“I’m a southpaw and I have a good jab like him, but I just don’t switch stances like he did,” says Hagler Jr.  “My grandfather was more aggressive.  I try to box more.”    

James is also naturally bigger, and while Saturday’s fight takes place at light heavyweight, Hagler Jr. is looking to settle into the super middleweight division going forward.

“I had a year layoff, so that’s why this fight is at light heavyweight,” explains Hagler Jr.  “I see myself fighting at 168.  It’s a very competitive division.  You’ve got Demetrius Andrade, who I look up to and train with, and you also have Canelo, David Benavidez, Caleb Plant.  And then the younger guys like Edgar Berlanga.”

And while Hagler Jr. envisions a future fight against Berlanga at Madison Square Garden, he views a showdown against the grandson of another boxing legend as his future super fight.

“My dream fight is to fight Nico Ali,” says Hagler Jr. about the prospect of facing Muhammed Ali’s grandson, who is currently 8-0 (5) and competing in the middleweight division.  “That would be a fight that attracts many people because it would be a legend’s grandson against another legend’s grandson.  I went to his fight in Atlanta and it’s something we talked about”.

While there is plenty of time to plan for those mega events, the countdown begins on May 20th at the Park Theater in Cranston, RI.    

Tickets for the May 20th event featuring James Hagler Jr. and Robert Duran Jr. at the Park Theater in Cranston, Rhode Island are on sale now and can be purchased online at cesfights.com or thepark.com.  The event will be streamed live at SpectationSports.com for those watching at home.For more information, follow CES Boxing on FacebookInstagram and Twitter at @CESBOXING.

INFORMATION

CES Boxing is one of the top promotions on the east coast.  Founded by Jimmy Burchfield Sr. in 1992, CES has promoted several world class fighters, including Jamaine Ortiz, Juiseppe Cusumano, Hank Lundy, Vinny Paz, Peter Manfredo, Mariusz Wach, Jason Estrada, Matt Godfrey, and Ray Oliveira.  CES Boxing has promoted such superfights as “The Thriller on Triller: Tyson v Jones” and “The Contender: Manfredo v Pemberton”.




WBC #2 RANKED JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHT CHARLES CONWELL JOINS FORCES WITH WISE OWL BOXING FOR MANAGEMENT

Los Angeles, CA (May 16, 2023) World Boxing Council (WBC) #2 Ranked Junior Middleweight Charles ‘Bad News’ Conwell, (18-0, 13 KOs), has joined forces with Mark Habibi and Wise Owl Boxing for management as he heads towards the biggest fights of his six-year professional career.

The 25-year-old Conwell, promoted by DiBella Entertainment, is coming off a sensational performance. On November 26, 2022, fighting in Los Angeles, CA, the 2016 U.S. Olympian dominated hard-hitting Dominican Juan Carlos Abreu over ten rounds in a bout broadcast internationally on Pay-Per-View.

“I’m very excited to partner with Mark Habibi and Wise Owl Boxing as I move into the most important part of my career,” said the Cleveland, OH native. “I’m at the point now with my resume and my ranking that I need the full support of a remarkable manager like Mark as we ascend to the top.”

Said Los Angeles native Habibi, “Charles has all the attributes to become a world champion, he just needs the opportunity. I feel he can beat anyone in the junior middleweight division and he’s ready to prove it in the ring. I’m honored to be working with him and we look forward to announcing his next fight soon.”

Among the other undefeated contenders and notable names Conwell has defeated include Juan Carlos Rubio, Patrick Day, Wendy Toussaint, Madiyar Ashkeyev and Courtney Pennington.




UNBEATEN SUPER WELTERWEIGHT & FLINT-NATIVE ARDREAL HOLMES TO FACE WENDY TOUSSAINT IN CLARESSA SHIELDS VS. HANNA GABRIELS 2 CO-FEATURE

DETROIT, MI. – May 16, 2023 – Flint’s undefeated rising 154-pound contender Ardreal Holmes Jr. will face once-beaten New Yorker Wendy Toussaint on Saturday, June 3 in a 10-round battle for the USBA Super Welterweight title that will serve as the co-featured bout in support of the Claressa Shields vs. Hanna Gabriels main event rematch.

The event marks the return of big-time boxing to Detroit live from Little Caesars Arena and streaming on DAZN in the U.S. and Canada. The action will also include Grand Rapids, Michigan’s undefeated Joseph Hicks taking on Atlanta-based Antonio Todd over eight rounds for the WBC Americas Silver Middleweight Championship. 

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and can be purchased through 313Presents.com, Ticketmaster.com and the XFINITY Box Office at Little Caesars Arena. The event is promoted by Salita Promotions and 313 Presents and streams live on DAZN.

“These are two highly competitive fights with significant consequences for the winner,” said Dmitriy Salita, President of Salita Promotions. “Both Ardreal and Hicks are some of the best talent from the state of Michigan and they’re stepping into challenging fights with titles and world rankings at stake. These are the kind of rising stars and fights worthy of big-time boxing’s return to Detroit.”

The 28-year-old Holmes Jr. (13-0, 5 KOs), known in the ring as “Bossman,” is a 6’ 2” southpaw and 2016 U.S. Olympic alternate coming off a pair of impressive professional victories. In March of last year, he scored a nationally televised unanimous decision over Chicago’s once-beaten Vernon Brown (then 13-1) and followed it up with a nationally televised split-decision over then undefeated New Yorker Ismael Villarreal (then 12-0) in February of this year.

Looking to close in on a title shot soon, Holmes says an impressive performance against the formidable Toussaint is crucial to his future plans.

“It means the world to me to be fighting in front of my fans in Michigan,” said Holmes. “I want to put on a great performance in this fight and open the doors toward contending for a world title in the near future. Flint watched me and Claressa train together for years, so it’ll be a treat for them to see us in action and in person on a night that’s going to be one to remember.”

Originally from Haiti, Huntington, New York’s Toussaint (14-1, 6 KOs), known in the ring as “Haitian Fire,” stands 5? 10½?. The 31-year-old has served as one of the main sparring partners for former WBO World Light Heavyweight Champion, Joe Smith Jr. and was last seen scoring a near-shutout unanimous decision over then 15-4-1 Asinia Byfield in June of last year.

Toussaint left his native Haiti at the age of 10 and first moved to French Guiana where he began to box. After joining a local team, and traveling to different countries to fight, he and his family made the move to the United States seeking better opportunity and competition. A win over Holmes Jr., will provide those opportunities.

“I’m really excited for this fight,” said Toussaint. “Winning this fight is going to propel me where I want to go, which is the top of the sport. I’m really happy with my team and promoter Joe DeGuardia of Star Boxing for putting me in this position.”

The 29-year-old Hicks (6-0, 5 KOs) started boxing at 19 and became a standout amateur before entering the pro ranks. He was set to captain the U.S. Olympic Team at the 2020 summer games, before the COVID-19 pandemic delayed the proceedings. By the time the games were back on, the IOC’s formula for picking fighters in his weight class left him on the outside looking in. Undeterred, Hicks has shined as a pro, including already scoring two wins this year with triumphs over Bilal Quintyne in February and Noah Kidd in April.

 If Hicks is to continue his march up the ranks, he first must get past Todd (14-7, 8 KOs), who has already scored one huge upset in Michigan, as he took a surprise majority 10-round decision over then world-ranked Huge Centeno Jr., in January of last year in Dearborn.




Emmanuel Rodriguez Takes on Carlos Mujica For WBA Fedelatin Bantamweight Title This Saturday at The Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (May 16, 2023)–This Saturday night, championship boxing returns to The Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City as Emmanuel “Salserito” Rodriguez takes on Carlos Mujica in the main event of a 12-bout card promoted by R and B Promotions.

Rodriguez of Quebradillas, Puerto Rico via Newark, New Jersey is 13-1 with seven knockouts. The 30 year-old is a six-year professional and has quality wins over Bryan Alvraez (4-0-1) & Delvin McKinley (4-1-1). On August 20, 2022, Rodriguez stopped Frank Gonzalez (9-2) to win the WBO Latino Bantamweight title. Rodriguez is coming off an eight-round unanimous decision over Sharone Carter on February 11th at The Showboat Hotel.

Mujica of Las Vegas has a record of 7-2 with one knockout. The 27-year-old has a victory over Agustin Perez Balbuena (5-1-1). In his last outing, Mujica scored a six-round unanimous decision win over George Navarro (8-2-1) on April 1st in Long Beach, California.

In a six-round bout, Elon De Jesus (5-1-1, 4 KOs) of Orlando, Florida fights Gabriel Bernardi Cruz (6-1, 3 KOs) of Cidra, Puerto Rico in a super bantamweight bout.

In Four-Round Bouts

Justin Figueroa (4-0, 4 KOs) of Atlantic City, NJ takes on debuting Antowion McCollough of Kalamazoo, MI in a junior middleweight contest.

Eliezer Olmeda (3-2) of Gloucester, NJ takes on Michael Crain (4-6-2) of Smyrna, DE in a junior welterweight bout.

Daniel Bean (1-0, 1 KO) of Old Bridge, NJ fights debuting Isaiah Cobbs of Kalamazoo, MI in a heavyweight bout.

Francisco Rodriguez (1-0, 1 KO) of Pleasantville, NJ fights Jose Luis Fracia Baron (0-3) of El Vega, Venezuela in a lightweight fight.

Deyshawn Williams (2-0, 2 KOs) of Elmhurst, NY boxes Anthony Dill (2-0, 2 KOs) of New Philadelphia, PA in a welterweight fight,

James White (1-0, 1 KO) of Warwick, PA squares off with debuting Ratavious Thrasher of Poughkeepsie , NY in a light heavyweight battle.

Juan Marrero of Philadelphia makes his pro debut against Donquay White (0-1) of Kalamazoo, MI in a lightweight battle

Miguel Garcia (1-0) of Somers Point, NJ takes on Michael Ruiz (PD) of Toms River, NJ in a lightweight contest.

Junior middleweight, Ghandi Romain of Union City, NJ fights an opponent to be named.

Cali Box (1-0, 1 KO) of Franklin Township, NJ takes on an opponent to be named in a super middleweight fight.

Tickets are $85, $150 and $200 and can be purchased at the following Link

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS




GH3 Promotions Kenneth Sims Jr. Wins Thrilling WBA Super Lightweight Elimination Bout

Roseland, NJ (May 15, 2023) –It was a perfect weekend for GH3 Promotions fighters as Kenneth Sims won a WBA Super Lightweight Elimination bout in Las Vegas, while Junior Younan remained undefeated and Otha Jones III was impressive in Orlando

“This was a great weekend for our fighters. I am so proud of Kenny Sims for the effort he had on Saturday night. He has persevered through so much over the last couple of years, and his hard work paid off and is now in line to fight for a world title. Junior Younan and Otha Jones both have so much ability and they are both getting back on track in their respective ways, and only good things are in their future,” said Vito Mielnicki of GH3 Promotions.

Photo by Esther Lin / SHOWTIME

Kenneth Sims Jr. outlasted former world title challenger Batyr Akhmedov by taking a 12-round majority decision in a junior welterweight Elimination bout.

The two traded hard shots throughout the high-punch count affair. Sims fought that few rounds with a closed right eye.

Sims landed 309 of 832 punches. Akhmedov landed 331 of 933.

Sims, 139.25 lbs of Chicago, won by scores of 116-112, 115-113 and 114-114 and is now 20-2-1. Akhmedov, 138.75 lbs of Las Angeles is 9-3.

“This is what I’ve been waiting on for years,” said Sims, who won for the seventh straight fight. “I’m not supposed to be here right now. That’s what they say. Ain’t nobody thought I would be here right now. And I know that I’m the best so at 140 it’s whatever. I’m ready for anyone.”

“I want the winner of the main event. I want that title. That’s it. Whoever wins the main event, that’s who I want.”

Photo by Damon Gonzalez / Latin Box Sports

Lightweight Otha Jones III scored an emphatic four-round unanimous decision over Marcello Williams on Friday night at The Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida.

Jones was dominant in his performance as he boxed very well by working behind a great jab. Williams was never able to mount any offense, and Jones won by scores of 40-35on all cards.

Jones of Toledo, Ohio is now 7-1-1.

Jones is managed by Split-T Management.

Photo by Damon Gonzalez / Latin Box Sports

Also in Orlando, super middleweight Junior Younan remained undefeated with a eight-round unanimous decision over Alan Campa.

Campa was very aggressive, but Younan was able to fight at his own pace, and catch Campa with some good shots on the way in. Ypunan of Brooklyn, NY won by scores of 78-74 and 77-75 twice to raise his record to 18-0-1. Campa of Mexico is 18-8.

Younan is co-promoted with Amaury Piedra