Junior Wright Scores Vicious 1st Round KO over Brian Howard in Essington, PA

Essington, PA (April 17, 2023)–Junior Wright scored a devastating first round stoppage over Brian Howard that headlined an entertaining three-bout card at the Clarion Hotel in Essington, Pennsylvania.

The card was promoted by RDR Promotions.

Both fighters set a fast pace by throwing hard power shots from the opening bell. Wright then uncorked a hard left hook that landed squarely on the chin that put Howard flat on his back and knocked out cold. The fight was waved off immediately by referee Eric Dali at 2:!7.

With the win, Wright of Philadelphia by way of Evanston, Illinois scored his second consecutive highlight-reel knockout, and raises his mark to 20-4-1 with 17 knockouts. Howard of Philadelphia is 15-6.

Mark Dawson Jr, won a six-round unanimous decision over gritty upset-specialist Javier Mayoral in a welterweight contest.

Dawson of Philadelphia won by scores of 60-54, 60-53 and 59-55 to raise his record to 11-1-1. Mayoral of New Orleans is 5-3-1.

Rasheen Brown shook off a 15-month layoff with a six-round unanimous decision over Eric Manriquez in a featherweight bout.

Brown of Philadelphia won by shutout scores of 60-54 on all cards and is now 12-1. Manriquez of Houston is 7-16-1.

Photos by Darryl Cobb Jr.




LIMITED TICKETS OPENED UP FOR SATURDAY’S LONG AWAITED GERVONTA DAVIS VS. RYAN GARCIA CLASH AT T-MOBILE ARENA IN LAS VEGAS

LAS VEGAS – April 17, 2023 – A limited number of tickets have been opened up for boxing’s biggest event of the year taking place this Saturday, April 22 as undefeated superstar rivals Gervonta “Tank” Davis and “King” Ryan Garcia battle at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas headlining a SHOWTIME PPV® production in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The newly available tickets can be purchased at AXS.com for the highly-anticipated event headlined by two fighters looking to stamp their place as the future face of boxing.

The event is promoted by GTD Promotions, TGB Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions.

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ABOUT DAVIS VS. GARCIA

Davis vs. Garcia will see undefeated five-time, three-division world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis in a long-awaited clash against hard-hitting sensation “King” Ryan Garcia taking place Saturday, April 22 headlining live on pay-per-view from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The pay-per-view telecast will begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features Cuban star and WBA Super Middleweight Champion David Morrell Jr. battling Olympic Bronze Medalist Yamaguchi Falcao in the co-main event. The action will also see an eagerly anticipated rematch between super middleweight sluggers Gabriel Rosado and Bektemir Melikuziev in a 10-round showdown. Kicking off the telecast will be hard-hitting 19-year-old middleweight Elijah Garcia facing rugged Kevin Salgado of Mexico in a 10-round showdown.

The event is promoted by GTD Promotions, TGB Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions and the telecast is produced by SHOWTIME PPV.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sportswww.PremierBoxingChampions.com and goldenboypromotions.com, follow #DavisGarcia, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions and @GoldenBoyBoxing, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotionss and @GoldenBoy or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxingwww.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/ and www.Facebook.com/goldenboy/




DAVID MORRELL JR. TRAINING CAMP QUOTES

LAS VEGAS – April 17, 2023 – Undefeated WBA Super Middleweight Champion David Morrell Jr. has no concerns about a late change in opponent as he prepares to face Olympic Bronze Medalist Yamaguchi Falcao this Saturday, April 22 in the co-main event of the Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia SHOWTIME PPV® production taking place from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT is headlined by undefeated rivals Gervonta “Tank” Davis and “King” Ryan Garcia in a 12-round showdown.

The event is promoted by GTD Promotions, TGB Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions.

A Cuban-native who came to Minneapolis to begin his pro career in 2019, Morrell (8-0, 7 KOs) has quickly shown off the talents that made him a standout in Cuba’s storied amateur scene. The 25-year-old captured an interim title by dominating then-unbeaten Lennox Allen in August 2020 in just his third pro fight before being elevated to champion.

Morell, who trains in Texas with renowned coach Ronnie Shields, was originally scheduled to face Sena Agbeko, who was forced to withdraw after not being licensed by the Nevada State Athletic Commission. Despite the late change in opponent, Morrell has no concerns about facing an accomplished veteran Falcao. Here is what he had to say about that matchup and more:

On his matchup with Yamaguchi Falcao:

“For most fighters it might be difficult to adjust to a new opponent, especially being that Falcao is a southpaw, but I’ve seen so many styles that I feel confident with anyone that’s across the ring from me. Falcao is on a nice winning streak and I’m sure his confidence is at an all-time high. He knows that winning this fight could change his life dramatically, so I know he’s coming to fight. I have plans to take him out and send another message to the entire super middleweight division. Falcao is a good fighter, but I’m better in all aspects.”

On his recent training camp:

“I’ve been training with a purpose since I got the word that I’ll be fighting on one of the biggest cards of the last ten years. Ronnie Shields and I have been working endlessly to get everything fine-tuned. With all the intense training I’ve been doing, I’m going to be in the best shape of my career. I’m right on weight and I’m feeling great. I had a great training camp.”

On fighting in Las Vegas in his first PPV event:

“As a kid, I would always dream about what it would be like to fight in Las Vegas, and here we are. It’s a tremendous blessing. I’ve worked hard to get to this point in my career and I’m ready to become a star. I want to thank my team for getting me this fight. Davis vs. Garcia is going to be one of the most watched PPV events in modern day history. My goal is to shine on the big stage and steal the show.”

On what a win will do for his career:

“With all the big fights in the super middleweight, winning this fight means everything. If I’m going to fight David Benavidez, Canelo Alvarez, Jermall Charlo or any of the other big names in boxing, I must win this fight. So, everything is on the line on April 22. A win will get me to the biggest fights in the sport.”

#         #         #

ABOUT DAVIS VS. GARCIA

Davis vs. Garcia will see undefeated five-time, three-division world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis in a long-awaited clash against hard-hitting sensation “King” Ryan Garcia taking place Saturday, April 22 headlining live on pay-per-view from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The pay-per-view telecast will begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features Cuban star and WBA Super Middleweight Champion David Morrell Jr. battling Olympic Bronze Medalist Yamaguchi Falcao in the co-main event. The action will also see an eagerly anticipated rematch between super middleweight sluggers Gabriel Rosado and Bektemir Melikuziev in a 10-round showdown. Kicking off the telecast will be hard-hitting 19-year-old middleweight Elijah Garcia facing rugged Kevin Salgado of Mexico in a 10-round showdown.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sportswww.PremierBoxingChampions.com and goldenboypromotions.com, follow #DavisGarcia, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions and @GoldenBoyBoxing, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotionss and @GoldenBoy or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxingwww.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/ and www.Facebook.com/goldenboy/




Split-T Management’s Joseph Hicks Jr. Remains Undefeated with Second Round in Detroit

NEW YORK (April 17, 2023)-Super middleweight prospect Joseph Hicks Jr. remained perfect by stopping Noah Kidd at the end of round two of their six-round fight at The Motor City Casino in Detroit.

The 29 year-old Hicks beat up Kidd to the point where Kidd did not want to come out for round three.

Hicks of Grand Rapids, Michigan is 6-0 with five knockouts.

Hicks is managed by Split-T Management and promoted by Salita Promotions.




Feargal McCrory Remains Undefeated With 3rd Round Stoppage over Eduardo Pereira Dos Reis In Philly

Philadelphia (April 17, 2023)–- Irish lightweight Feargal McCrory remained undefeated with a third-round stoppage over Eduardo Pereira Dos Reis that highlighted a six-bout card at the 230 Arena.

After three successful fight cards in New Jersey, the event was the first promotion by R and B Promotions in Pennsylvania.

The time of the finish was 2:04 for McCrory of Coalisland, Northern Ireland is now 14-0 with seven knockouts. Dos Reis of Santa Cartina, Brazil is 24-12.

Gian Garrido remained undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Pablo Jesus Rojas in a middleweight bout.

Garrido of Queens, New York is 10-0. Rojas of Buenos Aires, Argentina is 4-6.

Juan Davila scored an explosive fourth round stoppage over Tony Johnson in the final round of their lightweight bout.

The time of the stoppage was 57 seconds for Davila of Franklinville, New Jersey and he is now 3-0 with two knockouts. Johnson of Tucson, Arizona is 0-2.

Leonidas Soprandis won a four-round unanimous decision over Ryan Schwartzberg in a junior welterweight bout.

Soprandis of Kilkris, Greece is 2-1-1. Schwartzberg of Dania, Florida is 2-11-2..

In a battle of debuting middleweights, Alan Otto of Cherry Hill, New Jersey stopped Jamar Leach of Philadelphia in the opening round.

Daniel Bean made a spectacular pro debut with a 27 second knockout over Michael Cook.

Bean of Old Bridge, New Jersey is 1-0 with one knockout. Cook of Kansas is 0-3.

R and B Promotions will be back at The Showboat Hotel on Saturday, May 20th.




OMAR TRINIDAD DEFEATS ADAN OCHOA AT COMMERCE CASINO

Los Angeles, CA (April 14, 2023) Friday night in front of a sold-out boxing crowd at the Commerce Casino in Los Angeles, Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions presented another edition of Hollywood Fights Night‘The Most Entertaining Boxing Show in the United States’, broadcast internationally on UFC FIGHT PASS.

With Fast Rising Irish Star Callum Walsh along with WBC #3 Ranked and WBC Super Welterweight Continental Americas Champion Serhii Bohachuk sitting ringside, the can’t miss main event harkened back to the legacy of Los Angeles’ cross-town rivalries. Omar Trinidad, (12-0-1, 9 KOs) of Boyle Heights kept his winning ways moving forward with an eight-round unanimous decision over Adan Ochoa, (12-3, 5 KO’s), of Downey, CA. Scores were 80-72 twice and 78-74.

With huge crowds of passionate supporters for both fighters cheering on their feet throughout the heated clash, Trinidad used his effective aggressiveness to score over the first two rounds. Ochoa turned the tables and found success in the third round, however it was short lived as Trinidad would control the action as the fourth round commenced. Using his superior skills, Trinidad would continue to seize the battle in the second half over the valiant Ochoa.

In a special attraction four-round middleweight bout, Gabriel Silva, (1-0), son of UFC Legend Anderson Silva, impressively won his pro debut defeating southpaw Angelo Thompson. Scores were 39-36 twice and 38-37. With his father looking on closely, Silva controlled the fight throughout with sharp combinations and a tight defense.

Newly signed to 360 Promotions, Cain Sandoval of Sacramento, CA stayed perfect, (9-0, 9 KOs), with a fifth-round (2:34) knockout of Jose Angulo, (14-6, 7 KOs). Dropping Angulo in the second round, Sandoval kept the pressure on and scored another knockdown in the fifth stanza before the fight was waived off.

Light heavyweight standout Umar Dzambekov, (4-0, 3 KOs), of Los Angeles, CA continued the torrid start to his professional career with a third-round knockout of Nathan Sharp, (4-5, 2 KOs), of Merced, CA The southpaw dropped Sharp in the opening stanza and continued with combinations to the head and body prior to the stoppage.

Welterweights were also in action as Oswaldo Lopez, (4-0-1, 4 KOs), of Maywood, CA and Juan Manuel Gomez, (4-2-1, 4 KOs), of Livermore, CA fought to a spirited six-round split decision draw. Scores were 58-56 for each and 57-57 on the third judge’s card.

In a women’s flyweight battle, popular Gloria Munguilla, (3-0), of Los Angeles, CA stayed undefeated with a four-round majority decision over pro debuting Nikkia Williams, (0-1), also of Los Angeles, CA.

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Zhang Shocks, Stops Joyce in 6

Zhielei Zhang won the WBO Interim Heavyweight title with a sixth round stoppage over previously undefeated Joe Joyce at The Copper Box Arena in London.

Zhang landed some heavy blows in rounds one and two. In round two, Zhang landed a hard straight left that buckled Joyce and bloodied his nose. In round three, the right eye of Joyce began to shut. By round five, the eye was shut. In round five, Zhang began to bleed from the nose. Zhang continued to land hard shots that worsened to the point that made the referee at 1:34 of round six.

Zhang, 278 lbs of China is 25-1-1 with 20 knockouts. Joyce, 256 lbs of London is 14-1.

Zhang said, “Today belongs to me. It belongs to everyone who showed up. It belongs to every Chinese person who showed up today.

“I’m 39 years old. But I’m disciplined. I train hard. The next step is for me to fight for a world title.”

Joyce said, “I’m just disappointed with my performance. The [left] hand kept hitting me, and I couldn’t get out of the way. So, respect to Zhilei Zhang. It was a good fight, but I think I could have done better.

“I haven’t fought a southpaw for so long. Credit to him because he’s a good fighter. I gave it my all, and I think I can do better. It’s just disappointing. I expected to win like I normally do.”

Mikaela Mayer moved up in weight and took a 10-round unanimous decision over very last minute replacement Lucy Wildheart to win the WBC Interim Lightweight Title.

In the final round, Wildheart was bleeding from her nose.

Mayer landed 296 of 592 punches. Wildheart was 131 of 462.

Mayer, 134.5 lbs of Colorado Springs, CO won by scores of 100-90, 98-92 and 98-91 and is now 18-1. Wildheart, 134 lbs of Brentoowd, ENG took the fight 24 hours ago after Christina Linatradou had a medical issue. Wildheart is 10-2

Mayer said, “She stepped in at the last minute, so that was really gutsy of her. It’s definitely a big fight for her to just jump in at 24 hours’ notice. But she was tough and durable. I see why she had the confidence to do that, so props to her.
 
“I like to fight on the inside, so once I knew that she couldn’t outbox me, I decided to take it to her a little bit and try to break her down to the body.
 
“I do believe that Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano are supposed to go for their rematch, so assuming that still happens, I will challenge the winner of that. So, it’s definitely really exciting for me. This is where I belong. I belong in big fights. I belong in world title fights. I’m in my prime. I feel great, and I want the toughest challenges possible, and right now at 135, that’s Katie Taylor.”

Moses Itauma went the distance for the first time in his life won a six-round decision over Kostiantyn Dovbyshchenko .

The score was60-5 for Itauma, 247 lbs of Chatham, ENG is 3-0. Dovbyschenko of Ukraine is 9-13-1.

Heavy-handed Sam Noakes remained completely perfect by stopping Karthik Shartish Kumar 12-round lightweight bout.

In round one, Noakes dropped Kumar with a flush right to the head, Noakes continued with hard shots, and another right made Kumar’s glove touch the canvas, and the fight was stopped at 1:17.

Noakes, 134 1/2 lbs of Kent, ENG is 11-0 with 11 knockouts. Kumar, 134 1/2 lbs of India is 10-1.




MATI AND KOWNACKI STAR ON BERLANGA CARD

Hometown heroes Reshat Mati and Adam Kownacki return to action in the Big Apple as they star on the undercard of undefeated Super-Middleweight sensation Edgar Berlanga’s clash with Jason Quigley at The Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York on Saturday June 24, live worldwide on DAZN.

TICKETS GO ON PRE-SALE ON MONDAY APRIL 17 AT 12NOON ET AND ON GENERAL SALE ON TUESDAY APRIL 18 AT 12NOON – TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM TICKETMASTER.COM

Mati (13-0 7 KOs) will taste his first action of 2023 and does so in an all-New York clash with Brooklyn’s Wesley Ferrer. Mati picked up his first pro title in Mexico in October, outpointing Eduardo Rodriguez in Mexico City to land the WBC Youth Super-Lightweight strap. The Staten Island starlet will box over the ten round distance for the second time against Ferrer (17-1-1 8 KOs) who crosses the East River in a bid to ruin Mati’s unbeaten record in the biggest fight of his career to date, and first over ten.

“I can’t wait to be back in the ring after my latest layoff,” said Mati. “I’m looking forward to going out there and winning in style and win over the entire crowd at MSG.

“I will have huge support from my Albanian fan base on June 24 and I’ll definitely look to make a statement that night in the 140lb division.”

“This is a great opportunity from Matchroom to fight an undefeated guy like Reshat,” said Ferrer. “He will bring all his Albanian fans to the Garden, and that will only add more fuel to this match-up, because I know my fans will be there to make it a hell of a night for every fan in attendance. Move over, there’s a new sheriff in town.”

Kownacki (20-3 15 KOs) is eager to get back to winning ways, and the popular Brooklyn-based Pole does so in ten round action against Joe Cusumano. Kownacki has history with the famous New York venue as an amateur and a pro, and after a pair of defeats at the hands of Robert Helenius and a reversal in Brooklyn against Ali Demirezen in July. The 34 year old wants to get back to his lofty position he held prior to those defeats, and is targeting a spectacular win over Cusumano (21-4 19 KOs), to get himself back in the Heavyweight mix.

“I am excited to be back at Madison Square Garden,” said Kownacki. “MSG is where I had my first success as a boxer winning the NY Golden Gloves, and my fifth pro fight where I came out victorious and started my run to become a top five Heavyweight. MSG is will once again be the starting point of something special for me, as I resurrect my career.”

“We’re are excited for this opportunity to fight In the world’s most famous arena, Madison Square Garden,” said Cusumano. “Adam is a tough fighter but I’m preparing for war on June 24.”
Mati and Kownacki’s bouts will lead into a main event that sees Berlanga (20-0 16 KOs) fight for the first time under the Matchroom banner after penning a multi-fight deal with Eddie Hearn in February. The Brooklyn-based Puerto Rican ranked #4 with the WBO and IBF, and #6 with the WBA, fights in the Theater for the third bout in a row following wins over Steve Rolls and Roamer Angulo in March and June respectively, and there will be echoes of the spectacular April 2022 showdown between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano with the fans are treated to another Puerto Rico vs. Ireland clash as Ballybofey’s Quigley (20-2 KOs) looks to steal the show.

“I’m excited to be back in my hometown and to perform at the mecca of boxing once again,” said Berlanga. “I want this night to be a historic for my fans and for all the people of Puerto Rico and to witness greatness. 

“I feel like I’m reborn again in the sport signing with Matchroom and getting back to where it all started with my old coach Marc Farrait. I promise it’ll be something big on June 24.

“On June 24, I step into the ring at Madison Square Garden with the confidence that only comes from years of hard work and experience,” said Quigley. “I’m ready to give it my all. The bright lights, the roar of the crowd, there’s no better stage to showcase my skills. 

“I’ve been here before, I’ve fought at the highest levels, and nothing will faze me. My spirit and my intuition will guide me, and I know by putting on my best performance I will come out on top.”

“We’re back in the Big Apple and it’s going to be another great night at the mecca of boxing,” said Hearn. “The Theater always creates a special atmosphere, and it will be a sea of colors and a wall of noise when the Puerto Rican and Brooklyn backers of Edgar mix with the green and gold army of Irish fans roaring on Jason. 

“It’s a big night for Edgar making his Matchroom debut, and he will be looking to put on an explosive display as he sets his stall out to put his name front and center for a clash with Canelo Alvarez; and that’s all the motivation that Jason will need to put on the performance of his life and hand a first defeat to ‘The Chosen One’.

“Many of the prospects that we started out with in the States are now knocking on the door for the biggest fights in the game, and that’s where Reshat wants to be – victory in style would move him to the next level and set up a big second half of 2023. 

“The Heavyweight landscape is always changing, and a run of wins can move you up the rankings and into the spotlight. Adam knows that, and with his incredible support and all-action style, ‘Babyface’ can kickstart another run to the top on June 24.”




Mikaela Mayer to Fight Lucy Wildheart TOMORROW at London’s Copper Box Arena as Joe Joyce-Zhilei Zhang Co-Feature LIVE on ESPN+

LONDON (April 14, 2023) ­– Former unified junior lightweight world champion 

Mikaela Mayer has a new opponent for her lightweight debut. Mayer will battle Swedish contender 

Lucy Wildheart in a 10-rounder for the WBC interim world title tomorrow at London’s Copper Box Arena after her original opponent, Christina Linardatou, was forced to withdraw after not meeting British Boxing Board of Control requirements. Mayer-Wildheart will be the co-feature to the heavyweight main event between WBO interim champion 

Joe Joyce and 

Zhilei “Big Bang” Zhang

Promoted by Queensberry Promotions, Joyce-Zhang, Mayer-Wildheart and undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ beginning at 3 p.m. ET/12 p.m. PT.
 Wildheart (10-1, 4 KOs), a 30-year-old boxer-puncher, enters this late-notice assignment riding a five-bout winning streak since a 10-round decision defeat to French standout Estelle Mossely. In 2021, she knocked out former Mayer foe Edina Kiss in the third round. Wildheart went 2-0 in 2022, winning a pair of six-round decisions on British soil.

# # #

 
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 24.9 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). 




RISING CONTENDER FIODOR CZERKASZYN AND SENSATIONAL PROSPECT VITO MIELNICKI JR. HIGHLIGHT DAVIS VS. GARCIA SHOWTIME PPV® COUNTDOWN SHOW IN SEPARATE BOUTS ON SATURDAY, APRIL 22

LAS VEGAS – April 14, 2023 – Rising contender Fiodor Czerkaszyn and sensational prospect Vito Mielnicki Jr. will compete in separate bouts that highlight the SHOWTIME PPV COUNTDOWN SHOW on Saturday, April 22 leading up to the much-anticipated Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia pay-per-view event taking place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The unbeaten middleweight Czerkaszyn will take on Mexico’s Elias Espadas in a 10-round showdown, while the impressive super welterweight prospect Mielnicki, Jr., faces Mexico’s Jose Charles in a 10-round bout streamed live on the SHOWTIME SPORTS YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing® Facebook page beginning at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT.

The show will be hosted by award-winning MORNING KOMBAT live digital talk show co-host Brian Campbell, who will be accompanied by a pair of special guests. Sports broadcaster Kate Abdo, who covers UEFA Champions League for CBS Sports and is a former PBC studio host, and Ariel Helwani, renowned combat sports journalist and SHOWTIME Basketball podcast host, will both join Campbell in what should be a memorable night of streaming.  

These fights lead into a four-fight pay-per-view telecast beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT headlined by undefeated rivals Gervonta “Tank” Davis and “King” Ryan Garcia in a 12-round showdown.

The event is promoted by GTD Promotions, TGB Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions and the telecast is produced by SHOWTIME PPV.

The 27-year-old Czerkaszyn (21-0, 13 KOs) made a successful stateside debut in August 2022, stopping Gilbert Venegas, Jr., in the fourth-round. He followed that up in his most recent outing, as he won a dominant 10-round unanimous decision over veteran power-puncher Nathaniel Gallimore last November on SHOWTIME. Originally from Ukraine and a citizen of Warsaw, Poland, Czerkaszyn turned pro in 2015 and now owns four 10-round unanimous decisions on his record, hardly losing a round throughout the contests. The 32-year-old Espadas (22-5, 15 KOs) had a five-fight winning streak snapped in his last fight, as he dropped an August 2022 contest to unbeaten prospect Xander Zayas. A native of Merida, Yucatan, Mexico, Espadas has fought professionally since 2012 and has also challenged Olympic® Bronze Medalist Yamaguchi Falcao.

Representing Roseland, N.J., Mielnicki (14-1, 9 KOs) returns to the ring for the second time this year after stopping Omar Rosales in four rounds in January. The 20-year-old picked up three wins in 2022, earning unanimous decisions over Dan Karpency and Limberth Ponce, plus a stoppage of Jimmy Williams. Mielnicki first turned heads during his exceptional amateur career where he compiled a 147-22 record and was named the Most Outstanding Boxer of the 2011 Junior National Golden Gloves, amongst many accolades before turning pro. Fighting out of Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico, Charles (20-3-1, 12 KOs) will look to start a new winning streak after his four-bout run was halted by former world champion Austin Trout in December 2022. The 29-year-old will be fighting in the U.S. for the third consecutive outing when he steps into the ring on April 22.

The non-televised undercard lineup will feature unbeaten lightweight prospect Floyd Schofield (13-0, 10 KOs) dueling Mexico’s Valentin Leon Jr. (23-1-2, 19 KOs) in a fight scheduled for 10-rounds, plus heavyweight prospect Tristan Kalkreuth (9-1, 7 KOs) in a six-round matchup.

Rounding out the card is middleweight prospect Lorenzo Simpson (12-0, 7 KOs) in a six-round bout against Iowa’s Pachino Hill (8-1-1, 6 KOs), super welterweight prospect Jalil “Major” Hackett (5-0, 4 KOs) battling Jason Phillips (3-3-2) in a four-round fight and bantamweight prospect Cuttino Oliver (2-0, 1 KO) in a four-round attraction facing Mexico’s Roberto Cantu Pena (3-2, 3 KOs).

#         #         #

ABOUT DAVIS VS. GARCIA

Davis vs. Garcia will see undefeated five-time, three-division world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis in a long-awaited clash against hard-hitting sensation “King” Ryan Garcia taking place Saturday, April 22 headlining live on pay-per-view from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The pay-per-view telecast will begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features Cuban star and WBA Super Middleweight Champion David Morrell Jr. battling Ghana’s Sena Agbeko in the co-main event. The action will also see an eagerly anticipated rematch between super middleweight sluggers Gabriel Rosado and Bektemir Melikuziev in a 10-round showdown. Kicking off the telecast will be hard-hitting 19-year-old middleweight Elijah Garcia facing rugged Kevin Salgado of Mexico in a 10-round showdown.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sportswww.PremierBoxingChampions.com and goldenboypromotions.com, follow #DavisGarcia, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions and @GoldenBoyBoxing, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotionss and @GoldenBoy or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxingwww.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/ and www.Facebook.com/goldenboy/




FORMER WORLD CHAMPION LUIS COLLAZO RETURNS AND FOUR UNDEFEATED BOXERS FACE OFF IN TWO ADDITIONAL BOUTS ON APRIL 19, IN PLANT CITY FLORIDA LIVE ON PROBOX

Plant City, Florida, April 14, 2023 – Former world champion Luis Collazo faces off against Angel Ruiz in the main event in a ten-round junior middleweight bout on Wednesday, April 19 at the ProBox Events Center in Plant City, Florida.

Collazo (39-8, 20 KOs) was born in Brooklyn and now resides in Riverview, Florida. He won the World Boxing Association World Welterweight title and had one successful defense. Following that reign he later fought for the WBC world welterweight title twice and also the WBC Silver title.  Collazo has fought many of boxing’s greats, including Amir Khan, Keith Thurman, Andre Berto, Shane Mosley, and Ricky Hatton. 

“Ruiz is a tough fighter – he’s tall with a wide frame and likes to fight,” said Collazo. “So that in itself is going to make a fan friendly event. Boxing fans are going to be in for an entertaining night. I just got to be smart and use my ring generalship, and fight when I want to and need to fight.”

Angel “Relampago” Ruiz (17-2-1, 12 KOs) was born in Ciliacan, Mexico and now resides in Los Angeles. He began his career with five straight knockout wins. This will be Ruiz’ second attempt at a ten-round bout.

Also featured on the card is a battle of undefeated boxers. Vadim Musaev (5-0, 4 KOs), who lives and trains in Hollywood, Florida, was the Silver Medal winner at the 2021 World Championships. He faces off against Mexican Martin Alvarez (7-0, 6 KOs) in a six round welterweight bout.

The opening bout features undefeated junior featherweights in a ten-round bout. Prince “Octopus” Dzani (23-0, 19 KOs) from Accra Ghana, who represented Ghana in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, turned pro in 2012 and is a former Ghana Boxing Authority champion. Dzani is on a three-fight knockout streak and will be fighting in the USA for the second time. Salas (11-0, 9 KOs) from Tijuana, Mexico will be fighting outside of Mexico for the first time and his opponents have failed to go the distance against him in his last eight bouts.

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




MICHAEL “LONE WOLF” MAGNESI RISES TO WORLD RATED #9 BY THE WBC

New York, NY (April 14, 2023) – Newly crowned WBC Silver Champion, MICHAEL “LONE WOLF” MAGNESI (now, 22-1 13KO’s), has achieved another major milestone in his career as a result of his victory over previously undefeated AYRTON GIMENEZ (now, 17-1 9KO’s) in Rome. The dominant win immediately earned Magnesi the WBC #9 world rating in the super featherweight division.

Magnesi’s win against Gimenez was an impressive display of pressure and endurance. Despite Gimenez’s unblemished record, Magnesi showed dominance from the opening bell, using superior footwork, effective aggressiveness and ring generalship to control the pace of the fight. Magnesi landed precise combinations throughout the bout, keeping Gimenez on the defense and unable to mount a significant offense.

With the victory, the Star Boxing and DiBella Entertainment co-promoted super featherweight’s record improved to an impressive 22-1-0 (13 KOs). Magnesi is poised to take on some of the best fighters in the super featherweight division. Along with his new world rating, the former IBO World Champion added the WBC Silver Championship to his mantle – yet another significant accomplishment for “The Lone Wolf.”

“We are extremely proud of Michael and his team for their dedication and hard work,” said JOE DEGUARDIA, CEO of Star Boxing. “This victory solidifies his position as a top contender in the super featherweight division, and we look forward to what the future holds for Michael.”

Magnesi’s victory over Gimenez was a statement win, and his WBC rating positions him as a potential challenger for the WBC Super Featherweight Championship of the World.   In light of Magnesi’s pleasing offensive style, the good looking and exciting Italian contender should get some big opportunities in the near future. Magnesi’s victory over Gimenez is a testament to his dedication and hard work, and he has proven that he is a force to be reckoned with in the super featherweight division. Star Boxing, DiBella Entertainment and Magnesi are excited about the future and look forward to challenges that lie ahead.




WBA SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPION DAVID MORRELL JR. TO FACE OLYMPIC BRONZE MEDALIST YAMAGUCHI FALCAO IN DAVIS VS. GARCIA CO-MAIN EVENT LIVE ON PAY-PER-VIEW SATURDAY, APRIL 22 IN LAS VEGAS

LAS VEGAS – April 14, 2023 – Undefeated WBA Super Middleweight Champion David Morrell Jr. will now face Olympic Bronze Medalist and slick-boxing Yamaguchi “The Problem” Falcao in the co-main event of the Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia SHOWTIME PPV production taking place Saturday, April 22 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Falcao, the most accomplished fighter that Morrell has faced, replaces Ghanaian power-puncher Sena Agbeko, who was originally scheduled to face Morrell but was forced to withdraw after not being licensed by the Nevada State Athletic Commission.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and is headlined by undefeated rivals Gervonta “Tank” Davis and “King” Ryan Garcia in a 12-round showdown. The pay-per-view will also see Morrell Jr. vs. Falcao in the co-main event over 12 rounds, a rematch between super middleweight sluggers Gabriel Rosado and Bektemir Melikuziev, and hard-hitting 19-year-old middleweight Elijah Garcia facing Mexico’s Kevin Salgado in the pay-per-view opener.

The event is promoted by GTD Promotions, TGB Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions.

A Cuban-native who came to Minneapolis to begin his pro career in 2019, Morrell (8-0, 7 KOs) has quickly shown off the talents that made him a standout in Cuba’s storied amateur scene. The 25-year-old captured an interim title by dominating then-unbeaten Lennox Allen in August 2020 in just his third pro fight. Morell, who trains in Texas with renowned coach Ronnie Shields, added two dominant knockout victories in 2022 as he stopped Kalvin Henderson in June before a 12th-round TKO of the previously unbeaten Aidos Yerbossynuly in November. 

“Although I have a new opponent, the mission is still the same: seek and destroy,” said Morrell Jr. “I’ve been fighting my whole life. I’ve seen every style and I’m prepared to face anyone that’s in front of me. It’s go time as usual. Don’t miss this fight!”

A 2012 Olympian, Falcao (24-1-1) represents his native Sao Mateus, Espirito Santo, Brazil. The 35-year-old has won eight-straight bouts heading into April 22, including a busy 2022 campaign that saw him earn five victories, including most recently knocking out Ernest Amuzu in December. Falcao’s only loss came via a close decision against Christopher Pearson in May 2019, which immediately preceded a December 2019 draw against super middleweight contender D’Mitrius Ballard.

“They call me ‘The Problem’ and I am coming to show the world that I have the talent and determination to become the WBA Super Middleweight Champion,” said Falcao. “I promise that everyone tuning in will be extremely happy with the show that we put on. I’m coming to win on April 22.”

#         #         #

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sportswww.PremierBoxingChampions.com and goldenboypromotions.com, follow #DavisGarcia, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions and @GoldenBoyBoxing, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotionss and @GoldenBoy or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxingwww.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/ and www.Facebook.com/goldenboy/.




Weights from Philadelphia

Philadelphia (April 14, 2023)–- Weights for Tonight’s R and B Promotions card at the 2300 Arena.

Feargal McCrory 135 – Eduard Dos Reis 136.6

Gian Garrido 161.8 – Pablos Rojas 161.2

Juan Davila 136.4 – Tony Johnson 134.8

Alan Otto 158 – Jamar Leach 162

Daniel Bean 246.6 – Mike Cooke 213.2

Leonidas Soprandis 145.7 – Ryan Schwartzberg 146.2

Promoter: R and B Promotions

Venue: 2300 Arena

1st Bell: 7:30 PM ET

STREAM: BXNGTV.COM

Tickets are $60, $75, $100 and $175 and can be purchased by clicking the following link.

https://2300arena.showare.com/orderticketsvenue.asp?p=448




AUDIO: Junior Wright Talks about Brian Howard Showdown




VIDEO: Junior Wright Talks about Brian Howard Showdown




VIDEO: Mayer vs Linardatou, Joyce vs Zhang | OFFICIAL WEIGH-IN




 Weigh-In Results: Joe Joyce vs. Zhilei Zhang & Mikaela Mayer vs. Lucy Wildheart

 •  Joe Joyce 256 lbs. vs. Zhilei Zhang 278 lbs
(Joyce’s WBO Interim Heavyweight Title — 12 Rounds)

   •   Mikaela Mayer 134.5 lbs vs. Lucy WIldheart 134.4 lbs
(Vacant WBC Interim Lightweight Title — 10 Rounds)

* Wildheart stepped in after Mayer’s original opponent, Christina Linardatou, was forced to withdraw after not meeting British Boxing Board of Control requirements

•  Moses Itauma 247 lbs vs. Kostiantyn Dovbyshchenko241 lbs
 (Heavyweight — 6 Rounds)

•    Sam Noakes 134.5 lbs vs. Karthik Sathish Kumar 134 lbs
 
(Lightweight— 12 Rounds)

# # #

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ELIJAH GARCIA TRAINING CAMP QUOTES

LAS VEGAS – April 14, 2023 – Undefeated 19-year-old rising middleweight sensation Elijah Garcia will look to move one step closer to achieving his “big dreams” of boxing stardom and becoming one of the future faces of Mexican boxing when he takes on Kevin Salgado in the pay-per-view telecast opener of the highly anticipated Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia SHOWTIME PPV® production on Saturday, April 22 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

“It’s simple, a victory gets me bigger fights against top level competition,” said Garcia (14-0, 12 KOs). “I know if I keep winning, all the big fights will happen. I have big dreams to become the next big Mexican star in boxing, but I’m going to take it one fight at a time.”

Fighting out of Phoenix, Ariz., Garcia earned a career-best victory in March, blasting out the previously unbeaten Amilcar Vidal in the fourth-round on SHOWTIME® to announce his presence in the 160-pound division. Now he’ll step up to compete on boxing’s biggest stage, kicking off the pay-per-view telecast leading up to a long-awaited main event.

“Words can’t describe how excited I am,” said Garcia. “I’m only 19 years old, so for me to be fighting on the big stage like this is a testament to my team, and all the hard work we’ve put in. I want to personally thank everyone who made this fight happen. I’m so grateful to everyone involved in my career and my plan is to make everyone proud with a monumental performance on April 22.”

Prior to bursting on the scene in March, Garcia had a busy 2022, racking up four victories, including three knockouts, punctuated by a second-round TKO over Cruse Stewart that streamed live on SHOWTIME SPORTS® digital platforms. As he prepares for April 22, led by his trainers, father George and grandpa George, Sr., Garcia believes that he’ll step into the ring an improved fighter from his last appearance.

“Everyone will see a better version of me when I step in the ring next week,” said Garcia. “Every day in training camp is another day closer to making my dream of becoming a world champion a reality. I have a long way to go, but I take my training very seriously, because I know how hard it is to get to the top. It’s a family affair with my dad and my grandpa guiding my corner and we’ve been going hard at our gym in Arizona where all the magic is happening.”

Across from him on April 22 will be the veteran Mexico City-native Salgado (15-1-1, 10 KOs), who is the younger brother of former super featherweight world champion Juan Carlos Salgado. Now training in San Antonio, Texas, Salgado most recently earned a knockout in December and according to Garcia will provide his most difficult challenge.

“This will be the toughest fight of my career,” said Garcia. “Salgado has gone ten rounds before and has never been knocked out, so I know he’s got a great chin. My plan is to have my hand raised by any means possible. If the knockout comes, I’ll be happy, but I’m prepared to go the distance if need be.”

The event is promoted by GTD Promotions, TGB Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions.

#         #         #

ABOUT DAVIS VS. GARCIA

Davis vs. Garcia will see undefeated five-time, three-division world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis in a long-awaited clash against hard-hitting sensation “King” Ryan Garcia taking place Saturday, April 22 headlining live on pay-per-view from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The pay-per-view telecast will begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features Cuban star and WBA Super Middleweight Champion David Morrell Jr. battling Ghana’s Sena Agbeko in the co-main event. The action will also see an eagerly anticipated rematch between super middleweight sluggers Gabriel Rosado and Bektemir Melikuziev in a 10-round showdown. Kicking off the telecast will be hard-hitting 19-year-old middleweight Elijah Garcia facing rugged Kevin Salgado of Mexico in a 10-round showdown.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sportswww.PremierBoxingChampions.com and goldenboypromotions.com, follow #DavisGarcia, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions and @GoldenBoyBoxing, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotionss and @GoldenBoy or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxingwww.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/ and www.Facebook.com/goldenboy/




Split-T Management’s Joseph Hicks Jr. in Action Tonight in Detroit

NEW YORK (April 14, 2023)-Tonight at the Motor City Casino in Detroit, undefeated super middleweight Joseph Hicks Jr. will be in action as he takes on Noah Kidd in a six-round bout.

Hicks of Grand Rapids, Michigan is managed by Split-T Management, has a record of 5-0 with four knockouts.

The 29 year-old Hicks is coming off a six-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Bilal Quintyne on February 25th at The Motor City Casino.

Kidd of Jefferson City, Missouri is 6-7-2 with five knockouts. The 27 year-old Kidd has a win over Garrett Muller (1-0-1) and is coming off a defeat to former middleweight champion Sergio Martinez on December 11, 2022 in Orlando, Florida.

Hicks, who is promoted by Salita Promotions, weighed 161 lbs. Kidd weighed 163 lbs.




AUDIO: The Abrams Boxing Show: Ep 43 –w/Junior Wright






VIDEO: The Abrams Boxing Show: Ep 43 w/Junior Wright




VIDEO: Junior Wright vs Brian Howard –RDR Promotions Weigh-in




Weights From Essington, PA

Essington, PA (April 13, 2023)–Weights for Friday night’s RDR Promotions card at The Clarion Hotel

Photo by Marc Abrams / RDR Promotions

Junior Wright 222.3 – Brian Howard 223

Mark Dawson 147.5 – Javier Mayoral 147.3

Rasheen Brown 125.2 – Eric Manriquez 129.6

Nimal Farmer 149.9 – Antonio Allen 147.4

Promoter: RDR Promotions

Venue: The Clarion Hotel

1st Bell: 7:30 PM

STREAM: BXNGTV.COM

The Clarion Hotel is located at 76 Industrial Highway in Essington, PA

Tickets are $100, $75 and $55 and can be purchased at the Following Link

CLICK FOR TICKETS




Popular Heavyweight Joey Dawejko Takes on Colby Madison in Main Event of King’s Promotions Debut at The Event Center at Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia on Tuesday, May 2nd

PHILADELPHIA (April 13, 2023) — On Tuesday, May 2, 2023, King’s Promotions will make its debut at the Event Center at Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia with an outstanding night of boxing featuring popular heavyweight Joey Dawejko taking on Colby Madison in a bout scheduled for eight rounds. The first bell is at 7 PM ET.

“I am looking forward to May 2nd and putting on a great show at Live! Casino,” said Marshall Kauffman, CEO of King’s Promotions.

Dawejko of Philadelphia has a record of 23-10-4 with 13 knockouts. The 32-year-old is a 14-year professional. The former Youth Amateur World Champion, has wins over Ricardo Johnson (1-0), John Lennox (6-0), Derric Rossy (28-7), Mark Rideout (4-0-2), Enobong Unohette (9-2), Natu Visinia (11-1), Demetrius Banks (9-1), Kevin Nunez (15-0) and his last bout when he took a six-round unanimous decision over 90-fight veteran Terrell Woods on October 7, 2022, in Bensalem, PA.

“I am looking forward to seeing Joey get one last shot at getting in the heavyweight rankings. This is another step along the way,” said Russell Peltz, Hall of Fame Promoter, and current manager of Joey Dawejko.

Madison of Owings Mills, Maryland is 11-4-2 with seven knockouts. The 39-year-old is a seven-year veteran and is coming off a first-round stoppage over Darryl Clark on February 18th in Hanover, Maryland.

In a six-round co-feature, Najeem Johns (3-0, 3 KOs) of Darby, PA an opponent to be named in a super lightweight contest.

In Four-round bouts:

Brendan O’Callaghan (5-1-1, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on an opponent to be named in a super welterweight clash.

Tyler Zwicharowski (1-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia boxes William Briscoe (1-1-1, 1 KO) of Philadelphia in a middleweight battle.

Tyree Arnold (1-5) of Philadelphia battles Christopher Burgos (3-6-2, 1 KO) of Philadelphia in a super lightweight fight.

Hakim Smith (1-4-1) of Philadelphia takes on Francisco Rodriguez (1-0) in a junior welterweight clash.

Rahiem McEachin makes his pro debut in a super welterweight contest.

Tickets are $75 and $125 and can be purchased online now at AXS.com 




360 PROMOTIONS / HOLLYWOOD FIGHT NIGHTS WEIGHTS

Friday, April 14, 2023

360 Promotions / Hollywood Fight Nights

The Commerce Casino

‘The World’s Largest Card Room and Site of the LA Poker Classic’

6131 Telegraph Rd.

Commerce, CA 90040

Doors: 6:00 p.m.

Streaming LIVE on UFC Fight Pass (11:00 p.m. ET / 8:00 p.m. PT)

UFC Fight Pass Subscription sign-up >>https://bit.ly/3uJOnTE

Weigh-In Results

Omar Trinidad, 125.4lb. vs Adan Ochoa, 125.4 – Eight Rounds

Gabriel Silva, 161. vs. Angelo Thompson, 159.4 – Four Rounds

Cain Sandoval, 141 vs. Jose Angulo, 140.8 – Eight Rounds

Umar Dzambekov, 175 vs. Nathan Davis Sharp, 175 – Six Rounds

Osvaldo Lopez, 146.4 vs. Jose Manuel Gomez, 146.4 – Six Rounds

Gloria Munguilla, 111.8 vs. Nikkia Williams, 111.4 – Four Rounds

Steven von Euw, 153.8 vs. Monray Marable, 153.8 – Four Rounds

                                                ————————————————–

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Undefeated Luis Rodriguez to Defend WBA Continental Americas Super Middleweight Title Friday, April 14 in Panama

April 13, 2023, Panama City, Panama – – Luis Rodriguez, a perfect 11 wins in 11 fights with 11 stoppages, makes his first defense of his World Boxing Association (WBA) Continental Americas Super Middleweight title against Ecuadoran Roger Guerrero on Friday, April 14 at Coliseo do Combates, Panama City, Panama and streamed live on ESPN+ beginning at 8 pm.

Rodriguez (11-0, 11 KOs) from Toa Alto, Puerto Rico, made his pro debut on June 11, 2021. His knockouts have come in rounds 2, 1, 4, 1, 2, 2, 1, 4, 3, 2 and 2 and looks to keep not only his undefeated record intact but his knockout streak also.

Rodriguez won the title on January 28 in a scheduled ten round bout. He knocked Encarnacion Diaz down in round two with a left hook, then delivered a flurry of punches that dropped him a second time.  Diaz could not recover while referee Guillermo Perez Pineda counted to ten and the fight was called at 3:00 of round two and a new champion was crowned.

Friday’s challenger, Roger Guerrero (17-3-1, 10 KOs) from El Coca, Ecuador, recently challenged for the WBA Fedalatin super middleweight title.

“I had a wonderful opportunity to fight for and win the title in only my eleventh fight and I am here to stay,” said Rodriguez. “It’s time for young blood to carry this division and I am looking to fight the best and become the super middleweight so Puerto Rico can celebrate a new world champion.”

Rodriguez’s advisor, Attorney Tony Gonzalez stated “This kid Rodriguez can box, slug and end the fight with one punch with either hand. He’s the full package and it’s full steam ahead.”

Also featured on the card will be undefeated super middleweight and 4-time Venezuela National Champion Giodanny Jimenez (11-0, 10 KOs). Jimenez will battle Ecuadoran Antonio Ocles (12-11-2, 3 KOs) for the WBA Latino title. Ocles is coming off 2 straight wins while Jimenez has won by TKO in his last two fights.

The event is being promoted by Master Promotions and All Star Boxing.




Top Rank Presents WBO Interim Heavyweight Title Clash Joe Joyce vs. Zhilei Zhang

Top Rank presented by AutoZone: Joyce vs. Zhang and Mayer vs. Linardatou will be live this Saturday, April 15 at 3 p.m. ET / 12 noon PT exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+. The event takes place at Copper Box Arena, London, U.K.

The main event features a WBO interim heavyweight title clash between knockout artist Joe Joyce (15-0, 14 KOs) and Chinese contender Zhilei Zhang (24-1-1, 19 KOs).

British-born Joyce, a 2016 Olympic silver medalist, is unbeaten and has held various titles at the regional level. In his last fight, he captured the interim WBO title with an 11th-round knockout over former title challenger Joseph Parker.

Zhang, a 2008 Olympic silver medalist, turned pro in 2014 and knocked out Curtis Tate in the first 17 seconds of round one. He maintained a winning streak until a draw in 2021 against Jerry Forrest. He went on to win two more fights before his first and only defeat in 2022 against undefeated Olympic bronze medalist Filip Hrgovi?.

In the highly anticipated co-featureMikaela Mayer (17-1, 5 KOs) makes her lightweight debut against former two-time junior welterweight champion Christina Linardatou in a 10-rounder for the WBC interim lightweight championship.

Mayer, a 2016 U.S. Olympian, signed with Top Rank in 2017 and captured the WBO junior lightweight championship with a unanimous decision victory against Ewa Brodnicka in October 2020. The following year, the Los Angeles native unified the WBO and IBF titles in an action-packed fight against Maiva Hamadouche. In her last fight, Mayer suffered the first defeat of her career, a razor-thin split decision setback to Alycia Baumgardner at London’s O2 Arena. 

Linardatou began her pro career with a first-round technical knockout over Claribel Ferreras. She remained undefeated until unsuccessfully challenging Delfine Persoon for the WBC lightweight world title in 2016. She bounced back with four more wins and captured the vacant WBO junior welterweight championship before losing her 140-pound belt to Katie Taylor in 2019. In 2020, Linardatou regained that title with a unanimous decision over Prisca Vicot. Last July after a 29-month layoff, she returned to boxing with a six-round decision over Aleksandra Vujovic.

Calling the action will be Hall of Famer Timothy Bradley, Jr with Mark Kriegel and Bernardo Osuna as reporters.

ESPN.com

How Mikaela Mayer is rebuilding her career by taking bigger challenges

Ahead of Mikaela Mayer’s return, Michael Rothstein talks to the former champion about what happened after her loss to Alycia Baumgardner and how she plans to get back to the top.

Out Thursday:

Meet Christina Linardatou ahead of her fight against Mikaela Mayer

Michael Rothstein talks with Christina Linardatou about her pregnancy, her return, and he also speaks to the WBO to find why she was stripped of her title.

Out Friday:

Meet Joe Joyce, the heavyweight interim champ that could be in line for a title shot if he wins on Saturday

Joe Joyce is on the brink of landing a world heavyweight title shot and his story is one you will hear more about over the next two years.

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

  • Max on BoxingMax 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

All Times ET

Date Time Event Fights Network Titles
Sat. April 15 3:00 PM Main Joe Joyce (IC) vs. Zhilei Zhang ESPN+ (Interim) WBO Heavyweight
Co-Feature Mikaela Mayer vs. Christina Linardatou (Interim) WBC Lightweight
Undercard Moses Itauma vs. Marcelo Chancalay  
Undercard Sam Noakes vs. Karthick Sathish Kumar

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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 24.9 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).?   




VIDEO: Mayer vs Linardatou, Joyce vs Zhang | PRESS CONFERENCE




Press Conference Notes: Joe Joyce and Mikaela Mayer Ready to Co-Headline London Fight Night 

 LONDON (April 13, 2023) – Undefeated British knockout artist Joe Joyce and former unified junior lightweight champion Mikaela Mayer are set to co-headline an action-packed card this Saturday at Copper Box Arena in London.

Joyce (15-0, 14 KOs) will defend his WBO interim heavyweight belt in the main event against Chinese contender and fellow Olympic silver medalist Zhilei Zhang (24-1-1, 19 KOs).

The co-feature will see Mayer (17-1, 5 KOs) making her debut at 135 pounds against former two-time junior welterweight world champion Christina “Medusa” Linardatou (14-2, 6 KOs) in a 10-round battle for the vacant WBC interim lightweight championship.

Undercard fighters include heavyweight prospect Moses Itauma (2-0, 2 KOs) in a scheduled six-rounder against Ukraine’s Kostiantyn Dovbyshchenko (9-12-1, 6 KOs) and England’s Sam Noakes (10-0, 10 KOs) in a 12-round lightweight clash against Indian standout Karthik Sathish Kumar (10-0, 4 KOs)

Promoted by Queensberry Promotions, Joyce-Zhang, Mayer-Linardatou and undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ beginning at 3 p.m. ET/12 p.m. PT.
 
At Thursday’s press conference, this is what the fighters had to say.

Joe Joyce
 
“I’m a tough man. I started rugby a long time ago. I’ve tried a lot of sports. And I’ve finally found my sport in boxing. And it’s a whole package, all the ingredients that go into making a great champion. That’s what I want to be. And I’m getting close. I have the WBO interim title, but I don’t know how close I am to the world title.”
 
“All the others seem to be running scared or doing their own thing. I want the fights to happen. I get how things work with the governing bodies. And I can only just fight who is put in front of me. So, why not fight a good fight and give everyone an entertaining fight against Zhilei Zhang?”
 
“I respect Zhang’s power, and I won’t be going in there recklessly. He’s a southpaw, too. That’s more of a tricky style than what I’m used to. The last southpaw I fought was Lenroy Thomas in my fourth fight, which was for the Commonwealth title. In history, that was really quick. I’ve only had 15 fights with 14 knockouts. I’m in for some proper fights and will give everyone value for their money.”
 
Zhilei Zhang
 
“We accepted this fight with no questions. For me, I’m here for a reason. I’m here to become the strongest and the best. And I know that in order to be the best, you have to beat the best. 
 
“The translation of ‘The Juggernaut’ in Chinese is Red Tank. That’s what people call him. He has a tough chin. He has great stamina. But I’m the ‘Big Bang.’”
 
“From the first round of their fight, Joseph Parker fought scared. He fought going backwards and running around the ring. So, when it comes to direct body contact, there hasn’t been anyone who has hit Joe Joyce with solid punches. But, I will land my shots.” 
 
Mikaela Mayer
 
“I like fighting in the U.K. I like the fans here. The energy they bring to the arena is always great. They’re a lot of fun. I feel like I did a lot of work in my last outing here in terms of media. It was a huge fight and the Queen had passed, so we had to come out several times to promote the fight. And I just wanted to continue that moment and come out here and put on a great performance in front of some great fans.”
 
“I am coming off a loss. Yet I feel like I’m the greatest I’ve ever been. Skill-wise, I have taken another step forward. But at the same time, it’s almost like I’m taking a step back. I didn’t want that to be the case. I didn’t want to take a step back when it came to my competition or my next move in the sport, so I told my team that I wanted a top competitor. I wanted someone who challenge me and motivate me and get me back in position for a world title.
 
“That’s Christina Linardatou. She is accomplished. She’s a top ranked. And I wanted to put on a good fight for the fans against a worthy opponent, and she is a worthy opponent.”
 
“Christina has a very aggressive, come-forward style. So, obviously, I’m the taller and leaner boxer, so you are going to see me boxing and moving. But I also have to demand some respect and sit on my shots. There will be moments that where we’ll be in close and having to let my hands go as well. So, I know it’s going to be a really exciting, action-packed fight.”
 
Christina Linardartou
 
“I feel great. I’m so happy to be coming back. I had already done a fight after giving birth, but this is the first big fight. I’m very excited that it’s against Mikaela, who is a very tough fighter.”
 
“I have been keeping an eye on her for years now. I keep an eye on all my possible opponents. I keep an eye on all the women I could fight, from 130 to 140.”
 
“I wasn’t nervous [at the Grand Arrivals]. I was thinking she was trying to find the nervousness in me. But, I’m calm. I feel better than at any other previous time because of the processes. It was very difficult to get into the condition that I once was. The process makes you stronger, not nervous.”
 
“Advantages? We are both strong. We are both fast. I don’t know what exactly to tell you about advantages. I only know that I feel very strong and very fast. I think I’m faster. My defense is good. That’s my favorite. My defense.”
 
Saturday, April 15
 
ESPN+ (3 p.m. ET/12 p.m. PT)
 
Joe Joyce vs. Zhang Zhilei, 12 rounds, Joyce’s WBO Interim Heavyweight Title

Mikaela Mayer vs. Christina Linardatou, 10 rounds, Vacant WBC Interim Lightweight Title

Moses Itauma vs. Kostiantyn Dovbyshchenko, 6 rounds, Heavyweight

Sam Noakes vs.  Karthik Sathish Kumar, 12 rounds, Lightweight
 
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