Josh Kelly (10-1-1, 6 KOs) will look to put his name back amongst the division’s best as he makes his long-awaited return to the ring on Friday June 17 at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool as part of an action-packed night of free-to-air boxing live on Channel 5.

London had previously come calling for Kelly, and the Sunderland lad accepted willingly to get the capital rocking. However, after vigorous preparations, and through no fault of his own, his opponent pulled out of the fight at the last minute.

Kelly had snarled and bared his teeth all week, hungry to do the business and carrying a steely gaze throughout. All noteworthy deterrents to force his opponent into no-showing, which could be considered a wise move on the part of the opposing camp. Nevertheless, frustrating circumstances for Kelly that were left out of his hands.

“It’s never an ideal situation when you commit to the grind and graft for a whole camp for your opponent to pull the plug at the last minute,” said Kelly.

“It’s not the first, or last, time it will happen in boxing. My job is to prepare and be ready for whoever, whenever; I’ll be leaving no stone unturned come June 17.”

This is bad news for the rest of the division as an even more prepared Josh Kelly awaits them all. Besides having an extra camp under his belt, the opportunity to exert over 12 months of frustration will be something he is also relishing.

“No one wants to be inactive, but you can look at it in a completely different light and use the time to fill the gaps and make all your dangerous assets even more deadly,” he said.

“I can’t wait to give Liverpool, the United Kingdom, and the world the chance to see Josh Kelly at his best again.”

With the carrot having previously been dangled in front of him, Liverpool will be the destination that the former European Games Bronze medallist can finally explode back onto the scene.

“Nothing has changed, I said I was after world titles before and I’m still after them,” Kelly said.

“I’m ready to do whatever, and that starts with a dominant display live on Channel 5 in Liverpool. I can’t wait to give my fans, and all fans of the sport, a masterclass come fight night.”

Kalle Sauerland, Head Of Global Boxing at Wasserman said: “For Josh to stick his name straight back into the hat for this stacked Liverpool card emphasises his hunger and desire to be boxing again.

“Josh’s talent is assured in that ring, and the fighting city of Liverpool gets to host it. With over a million viewers on Channel 5 last time, the country will get the opportunity to witness a refreshed and ready ‘Pretty Boy’ Josh Kelly.”

Heavyweights collide as Nathan Gorman (18-1, 12 KOs) takes on Tomas Salek (17-3, 13 KOs) as part of a huge night of free-to-air boxing on Friday June 17 at the M&S Bank Arena. ‘Pretty Boy’ Josh Kelly (10-1-1, 6 KOs) also features alongside an electric British Super Flyweight Title Eliminator between Liverpool’s Marcel Braithwaite (12-3) and Thomas Essomba (11-7-1, 4 KOs). This unbelievable card will also host the professional debut of Aaron Chalmers, former Team GB fighter Chloe Watson (2-0) against Fara El Bousairi  (5-2, 1 KO), the undefeated Paddy Lacey (2-0) , Mason ‘Nutty’ Cartwright (17-3, 7 KOs) and heavyweight giant ‘Magic’ Matty Harris (2-0, 1 KO). Promoted by Wasserman Boxing, live on Channel 5, in association with William Hill, Numan and Infinitum Entertainment.

Tickets are available via https://www.ticketquarter.co.uk/

Manchester, England – (30 May 2022) – Leading world heavyweight title contenders Hughie Fury and Michael Hunter will face off in a Final WBA World Title Eliminator on Saturday July 2nd at the AO Arena Manchester, live and exclusively on Sky Sports, with the winner securing a shot at the WBA World Title.

The WBA has ordered that the winner of Fury vs Hunter will go on to challenge the winner of the upcoming June 11 WBA World Heavyweight Title fight between defending world champion Trevor Bryan and British contender Daniel Dubois.

Manchester giant Fury and American dangerman Hunter will put everything on the line in this extremely competitive high-stakes crossroads fight. With the world title in sight for the victor, fireworks are guaranteed.

Fury (26-3-0, 15 KO’s), ranked at #4 in the WBA, is fired up for his clash with Hunter and he’s been focused on a second world shot since September 2017 when his challenge for the WBO World Title, at just 23-years-old, ended in a controversial points loss to Joe Parker.

Fury, managed by Mick Hennessy, was in top form last October in Newcastle when he forced rugged rival Christian Hammer to retire on his stool after five rounds. Until then Fury was at his best, landing accurate jabs and uppercuts and forcing Hammer’s first stoppage loss since his 2015 defeat by Hughie’s cousin Tyson Fury.

With Hammer also taking heavy punchers like Tony Yoka, Alexander Povetkin and Luis Ortiz the distance, the stoppage looks even more impressive on Fury’s record as he stakes his claim for a world title shot.

Fury, still just 27, is on an unbeaten three fight run with victories over Hammer, Mariusz Wach and Pavel Sour since his points loss to heavy hitter Povetkin in August 2019.

“I take the fights everyone avoids. Michael Hunter has fought the best and is up there with the best. These are the fights I want, to show who is the best fighter out there. I’m looking forward to this challenge. I believe I’m one of the best fighters in the world and this is another big fight to prove I stand with the top three in the world heavyweight division,” said Fury.

WBA #2 rated Hunter (20-1-2, 14 KO’s) has been swerved by many of the big names in the division and is targeting his first world heavyweight title shot after a points loss to Oleksandr Usyk in 2017 for the WBO World Cruiserweight title. He will be aiming to cause a big upset in defeating Fury.

Known as the ‘Bounty’, Michael’s father Mike was a former fringe heavyweight contender in the 80s and 90s who fought some of the big names of the era including Buster Mathis Jr., Tyrell Biggs and Frans Botha.

He represented America in the London 2012 Olympics and turned pro shortly after starting out in the cruiserweight ranks and quickly put together an undefeated run before challenging Usyk.

To highlight the serious threat that Hunter presents to Fury, Hunter caused a massive upset on his last visit to Britain in October 2019 when he stopped the unbeaten prospect Martin Bakole in the 10th round of a thrilling fight, the referee intervening to wave the fight off when Bakole was defenceless under a flurry of heavy blows .

Since then Hunter has gone unbeaten in seven fights, including a December 2019 draw with Povetkin in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia, which he believes should rightly have been a decision win in his favour.

“We’re excited to return to Manchester and the iconic AO Arena Manchester for a fight which has everything on the line. Hughie Fury has patiently built his way back to world title contention and has overcome big challenges along the way. This is another big test against one of the most avoided fighters in the division.” said BOXXER Founder and CEO Ben Shalom.

“Hughie is only just about to come into his prime and so if he can get past Michael then he puts himself unquestionably in the mix for world titles in the coming months and years. Michael will also believe this is the chance he is waiting for, and with such a big opportunity on the line for the winner, both fighters will be giving everything.’

Adam Smith, Sky Sports Head of Boxing Development Adam Smith, said, “What a fabulous match up in the blue ribbon division as Hughie Fury has a serious heavyweight test against the excellent Michael Hunter – whose talent we know well on Sky! Can Hughie now emerge from the shadows to produce a career-best performance or will the classy and avoided American gatecrash the world scene?”

BOXXER: Fury v Hunter, headlines a stellar card presented by BOXXER in association with official partners bet365, Everlast, WOW HYDRATE and Village Hotels.

A ticket for the BOXXER event will grant access to AO Manchester Arena from 17:30 for the duration of the evening. Tickets will subsequently grant free access to the Hatton v Barrera show by Europa Concerts which will begin after BOXXER’s event has concluded.

To register for tickets go to Boxxer.com

BROOKLYN–It took one punch by Gervonta Davis to shut the mouth of Rolando Romero as Davis retained his WBA Lightweight title with a sixth round stoppage of Romero in front of a sold-out Barclays Center of 18,790.

The fight was a tactical first five-plus round with neither man averaging more than 20 punches per round.  

Finally in round six, Romero ran right into a perfect left to the face that had him sprawling into the ropes and down the canvas,  Romero got to his feet but was unsteady, and referee David Fields stopped the fight at 2:39.

Davis, 133.75 lbs of Baltimore, MD is 27-0 with 25 knockouts.  Romero, 134.25 lbs of Las Vegas is 14-1.

Gervonta Davis

“I want to thank God, first for this victory, second I want to thank Al Haymon, Mayweather Promotions, Showtime, we did it again in New York City baby. Thank you New York City.  I won my first belt here and it was great to come back to New York City and do it again.

“I was thinking as this interview was coming up and as much as I wanted to be cocky, but I want to thank Rolly. I want to thank his team. We settled it like men inside the ring. I wish him the best in the future.

“I knew it was all about selling the fight. I’m glad we didn’t fight the first time because I was so emotional. But I’m just grateful to be in this position and to be able to come out with the win. He was strong for sure but it was a couple shots that I was getting warmed up and he caught me and I was like, ‘I can’t sit with him just yet.’ I know when to take it to my opponents and when to chill out. There was someone in the crowd and they were telling me to press forward and I was like, not yet. I got to loose him up a little more.

“The crazy thing is that I didn’t even throw it that hard. He just ran into it. He just ran into it. Something like when Pacquiao got caught. I didn’t even throw it that hard and he’s the one who ran into it, when he was talking that it was going to be me.

“I knew that I could get into his head, just from when we weighed in. I knew his goal was to move in front of me (on stage during the weigh in) so when he went in front of me he didn’t realize that the stand was coming to an end so I just tapped him and he fell.

“I’m here baby, whatever they want to do, I’m here. I want to send my condolences to Mr. Russell, he was someone who I came up with in the amateurs. I want to shout out the Russell brothers and send my condolences to them.”

Lara Stops O’Sullivan in eight; Retains Middleweight title

Erislandy Lara retained the WBA Middleweight title with an eighth round stoppage over Gary O’Sullivan.

In round four, Lara dropped O’Sullivan with a straight left.

In round eight, it was another straight left that rocked O’Sullivan and the fight was stopped.

Lara, 159.75 lbs of Guantanamo, CUB is 29-3-3 with 17 knockouts.  O’Sullivan, 159 lbs of Cork, IRE is 31-5.

Erislandy Lara

“This new style that I’m demonstrating is for all the boxers to show them how I can fight now, just being able to change up. He was a tough boxer, too.

“I’m a smart boxer, a slick boxer, that’s what I did tonight. I wait until he attacks and then I do what I have to do to win the fight.

“I saw the opening, he was leaving himself open and that’s when the left came in and knocked him down. I saw in the eighth round he didn’t have any more power and that’s when I stepped up and showed my power.

“I want to thank the fans that came to Brooklyn, Al Haymon and Luis De Cubas Jr. for setting up the big fights that I want to have for me. I’m still a force

Ramos Gets Family Revenge; Decisions Santanaria

Jesus Ramos avenged a loss that his uncle Abel had to Luke Santamaria, by winning a 10-round unanimous decision in a super welterweight bout.

Ramos landed 158 of 625 punches; Santamaria was 142 of 560.

Ramos, 153.5 lbs of Casa Grande, AZ won by scores of 98-92 and 97-93 and is now 19-0.  Santamaria, 154 lbs of Garden Grove, CA is now 13-3-1.

Jesús Ramos

“Yes of course (it was important to avenge the loss of my uncle). It wasn’t the way we wanted to win, but I think it takes two to tango and tonight I was the one who wanted to fight. I’m not really satisfied. I could have done a lot better but like I said, it takes two to tango and tonight Santamaria didn’t want to fight

“I could have pressed a little more, gone to the body a little more, he was kind of slippery in there, and I didn’t want to risk anything because he would counter so I was trying to stay composed and stay at my distance.

“I’m going to go back and watch the fight and grow. I went 10 rounds again and it’s going to help me mature a lot more.

“I want whoever they want to put in front of me. We’re going to keep going forward and take whatever fight my team thinks is best for me.

“I could improve on cutting off the ring a little and going to the body a little bit more. He was headbutting me and fighting a little dirty in there, so I didn’t want to get too careless.”

Luke Santamaría

“I thought it was closer than that. I thought we got the win. Unfortunately, it didn’t go our way. I moved up in weight. I thought he was going to be stronger than that. I thought we did enough to win the fight.

“The plan was to counter and slip his shots. I thought it was good enough to get the win but what happened happened and we can’t complain.

“We’re going to stay at 147. When you lose you dig a deep hole but we’ve dug ourselves out of the hole before and we’ll do it again. He never hurt me, never felt his power. I was good. I thought he was going to be tough. I’m just as tough as they come.

“The plan was to box him and to get him tired and it was working. I thought it worked.”

Ramirez Decisions Melendez

Eduardo Ramirez won a 10-round majority decision over Luis Melendez in a junior lightweight fight.

Ramirez landed 171 of 555 punches; Melendez was 193 of 659.

Ramirez, 130 lbs of Los Mochis, MEX won by scores of 98-92, 97-93 and 95-95 and is now 27-2-4.

Eduardo Ramírez

“The first few rounds were even, but after that he only had his jab. I was able to hurt him. He tried to win going backwards and that’s no way to win.

“I want to fight for the world title next. I’m ready for any of the top fighters. I don’t shy away from tough challenges.”

Luis Meléndez

“I felt I won the fight. It’s part of the game. You just have to go back and keep training and just come back better.

“The last scorecard when they said it, I felt I won, without a doubt. My people know I won, the crowd knows I won, it definitely hurts when you travel here and you expect to win and it’s my first pay-per-view. Everybody at home was watching me. It is what it is. I just have to go back to the drawing board and get better. I’m still young. I felt I landed the crisper punches and out-boxed him. He never hurt me. Never.

“It felt great to hear the crowd cheering for me. It’s more of a Gervonta crowd, but they showed me love. It just comes with the territory. The judges didn’t think it was for me this time. It is what it is.”

Luis Arias won a 10-round unanimous decision over Jimmy Williams in a super welterweight fight.

Arias, 155.25 lbs of Boca Raton, FL won by scores of 99-91 on all cards and is now 20-3-1.  Williams, 154 lbs of Plainfield, NJ is 18-8-2.

Jalil Hackett remained undefeated by stopping Jose Belloso in round three of their four round welterweight bout.

The time was 2:13 for Hackett, 145 lbs of Washington, DC who is now 4-0 with three knockouts.  Belloso, 145.75 lbs of Carson, CA is 4-1.

Adrian Benton remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Jose Antonio Meza in a super lightweight bout.

Benton, 129.4 lbs of Cincinnati, OH won by scores of 59-55 twice and 58-56 and is now 7-0.  Meza, 130 lbs of Gomez Pueblo, MEX is 8-7.

Arnold Gonzalez won a six-round split decision over Tracey McGruder in a welterweight contest.

Gonzalez, 146.4 lbs of New York won on two cards 58-56, while McGruder took a card 59-57.

Gonzalez is 10-0.  McGruder, 148.4 lbs of Rochester, NY is 6-3.

Cattino Oliver won a four-round unanimous decision over Jahdon Lewis in a super bantamweight fight.

Oliver, 118.2 lbs of Baltimore, MD won by scores of 40-36 and 39-37 twice and is now 2-0.  Lewis, 118.2 lbs of North Augusta, SC is 2-2.

Julica Pavilus won a six-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Mia Ellis in a lightweight bout.

In round six, Pavilus dropped Ellis with a left hook.

Pavilius, 133.2 lbs of Port-a-Prince, HAI won by scores of 59-54, 58-55 and 57-56 and is now 3-5-1.  Ellis, 134 lbs of Baltimore, MD is 4-1.

Las Vegas – UFC^® returns to UFC APEX with a hard-hitting heavyweight contenders’ bout between No. 7 ranked Alexander Volkov and No. 8 Jairzinho Rozenstruik. Exciting featherweight contenders collide in the co-main event when No. 10 ranked Dan Ige faces undefeated No. 13 Movsar Evloev.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT^®: VOLKOV vs. ROZENSTRUIK will take place Saturday, June 4 at UFC APEX in Las Vegas. All bouts will stream exclusively on ESPN+, with the prelims beginning at 1 p.m. ET/ 10 a.m. PT and the main card at 4 p.m. ET/ 1 p.m. PT.

Decorated veteran Volkov (34-10, fighting out of Moscow, Russia) is looking for another dominant performance. Throughout his 13-year MMA career, he has netted spectacular knockout wins against Alistair Overeem, Fabricio Werdum and Stefan Struve. Volkov now intends to put the heavyweight division on notice by finishing Rozenstruik in impressive fashion.

Seasoned kickboxer Rozenstruik (12-3, fighting out of Paramaribo, Suriname) has utilized his elite striking arsenal to remain a fixture in the heavyweight division’s Top 10. With knockouts in each of his UFC victories, he has delivered exciting wins over Junior Dos Santos, Alistair Overeem and Andrei Arlovski. Rozenstruik now has his sights set on dispatching Volkov with a highlight-reel performance.

Gritty competitor Ige (15-5, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev. by way of Haleiwa, Hawaii) looks to become the first fighter to beat Evloev and defend his spot on the 145-pound ladder. Throughout his UFC stint, he has delivered memorable wins against Edson Barboza, Gavin Tucker and Mirsad Bektic. Ige now hopes to steal the show with another highlight-reel finish.

Talented grappler Evloev (15-0, fighting out of Sunzha, Republic of Ingushetia, Russia) aims to continue his unbeaten run by securing the biggest win of his career. Since joining the UFC roster in 2019, he has earned notable victories over Hakeem Dawodu, Nik Lentz and SeungWoo Choi. Evloev now looks to enter the featherweight division’s Top 10 with another emphatic victory.

Additional bouts on the card include:

• The Ultimate Fighter Season 27 winner Michael Trizano (10-2, fighting out of Ramsey, N.J.) squares off with Lucas Almeida (13-1, fighting out of Sorocaba, Sao Paulo, Brazil) at featherweight
• Dana White’s Contender Series signee Karine Silva (14-4, fighting out of Curitiba, Brazil) debuts against Poliana Botelho (8-4, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) in a flyweight bout
• Alonzo Menifield (11-3, fighting out of Dallas, Texas) faces UFC newcomer Askar Mozharov (25-7, fighting out of Phuket, Thailand by way of Odessa, Ukraine) in a light heavyweight matchup
• Felice Herrig (14-9, fighting out of Crystal Lake, Ill.) rematches former women’s strawweight title challenger Karolina Kowalkiewicz (12-7, fighting out of Lodz, Poland)
• Joe Solecki (11-3, fighting out of Wilmington, N.C.) takes on Alex da Silva (21-3, fighting out of Balneario Camboriu, SC, Brazil) in an intriguing lightweight tilt
• Ode’ Osbourne (10-4 1NC, fighting out of Milwaukee, Wisc.) locks horns with Zarrukh Adashev (4-3, fighting out of New York, N.Y. by way of Samarkand, Uzbekistan) at flyweight
• Niklas Stolze (12-5, fighting out of Magdeburg, Germany) moves down to lightweight to face Benoit Saint Denis (8-1 1NC, fighting out of Paris, France)
• Johnny Munoz (11-1, fighting out of Norco, Calif.) battles Tony Gravely (22-7, fighting out of Coconut Creek, Fla.) at bantamweight
• Jeff Molina (10-2, fighting out of Olathe, Kan.) aims to keep his momentum going when he takes on Zhalgas Zhumagulov (14-6, fighting out of Aktobe, Kazakhstan) in a flyweight bout
• Rinat Fakhretdinov (20-2, fighting out of Moscow, Russia) debuts against Andreas Michailidis (13-5, fighting out of Athens, Greece) at welterweight
• Erin Blanchfield (8-1, fighting out of Elmwood Park, N.J.) and JJ Aldrich (11-4, fighting out of Aurora, Colo.) meet in a clash of rising flyweight prospects

Visit the UFC.com for information and content to support your UFC coverage.

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About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 688 million fans and 198 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 nearly 900 million TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete 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 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 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 22.3 million subscribers.

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Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $6.99 a month (or $69.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices). It is also available as part of The Disney Bundle that gives subscribers access to Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu for $13.99/month (Hulu w/ads) or $19.99/month (Hulu w/o ads). Subscribers to Hulu + Live TV also receive ESPN+ at no additional cost.

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.

WBA Lightweight Championship – 12 Rounds

Gervonta Davis – 133 ¾ lbs.

Rolando Romero – 134 ¼ lbs.

Referee: David Fields; Judges: Ron McNair (N.Y.), Kevin Morgan (N.Y.), Robin Taylor (N.Y.)

WBA Middleweight Championship – 12 Rounds

Erislandy Lara – 159 ¾ lbs.

Gary O’Sullivan – 159 lbs.

Referee: Benjy Esteves; Judges: Allen Nace (N.Y.), Tony Paolillo (N.Y.), Waleska Roldan (N.Y.)

Super Welterweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Jesús Ramos – 153 ½ lbs.

Luke Santamaría – 154 lbs.

Referee: Arthur Mercante; Judges: Mark Consentino (N.J.), Ken Ezzo (Conn.), Steve Weisfeld (N.J.)

Super Featherweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Eduardo Ramírez – 130 lbs.

Luis Meléndez – 130 lbs.

Referee: Johnny Callas; Judges: Bernard Bruni (Penn.), John McKaie (N.Y.), John Poturaj (N.J.)

Live Prelims on SHOWTIME Sports YouTube Channel – Saturday, 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT

Click HERE to Watch

Super Welterweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Luis Arias – 155 ¼ lbs.

Jimmy Williams – 154 lbs.

Referee: TBD; Judges: TBD

Welterweight Bout – 6 Rounds

Jalil Hackett – 145 lbs.

Jose Belloso – 145 ¾ lbs.

Referee: TBD; Judges: TBD

The most trusted and experienced team in combat sports will be on the pay-per-view call. Veteran sportscaster Brian Custer will host the SHOWTIME PPV telecast while renowned International Boxing Hall of Famer Barry Tompkins will handle blow-by-blow action alongside fellow Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion Abner Mares. Three additional Hall of Famers round out the SHOWTIME telecast team – Emmy^® award-winning reporter Jim Gray, unofficial scorer Steve Farhood and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr.  Sportscaster Alejandro Luna will call the action with former junior middleweight world champion and SHOBOX analyst Raúl “El Diamante” Marquez serving as expert analysts in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP). Brian Campbell and Marquez, voices of the popular SHOBOX: The New Generation series, will be on the call for the live preliminary bouts streaming on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube Channel alongside NBA champion Stephen Jackson of ALL THE SMOKE and former unified world champion Julian “J-Rock” Williams.

The executive producer of SHOWTIME PPV is four-time Emmy award winner David Dinkins Jr., the director is Bob Dunphy, son of legendary Hall of Famer Don Dunphy.

#          #          #

ABOUT DAVIS VS. ROMERO

Davis vs. Romero will see five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis defend his WBA Lightweight Title against unbeaten No. 1 ranked contender and mandatory challenger Rolando Romero on Saturday, May 28 live on SHOWTIME PPV from Barclays Center in Brooklyn headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features two division world champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara defending his WBA Middleweight Title against hard-hitting Gary “Spike” O’Sullivan in the co-main event. Plus, sensational young star Jesús “Mono” Ramos faces Luke Santamaría in a 10-round super welterweight showdown, while hard-hitting contender Eduardo Ramírez battles Puerto Rico’s Luis Meléndez in the 10-round super featherweight telecast opener.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets are also available for purchase at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #DavisRomero, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromotions and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook      at          www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing     and https://www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions/.

Chloe Watson (2-0) says she is ready to shine as the Birkenhead-boxer prepares to face Fara El Bousairi (4-2, 1 KO) in front of her home fans as part of a huge night of free-to-air boxing on Friday June 17 at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, live on Channel 5.

The former Team GB boxer has spent her whole life preparing for a moment like this, fighting on a televised card in her home city, but a game El Bousairi is not travelling from Spain simply to make up the numbers.

“She’s got an impressive winning record, so she’ll be definitely coming to win,” said Watson. “I believe these are the fights where you’ll see me shine, and there’s no better way to do that than to have a good competitive fight in my hometown of Liverpool.”

This will be a rise in competition for Watson, as the Flyweight prepares for her third professional fight since debuting in November 2021. The talented fighter has enjoyed an active start to her promising career, and at 22 years old, she is still learning her trade and using all the sacrifice from her past to keep her eyes on her goals.

“I’m fighting for the 8-year-old me who first went into the boxing gym and fell in love. I’m fighting for the 10-year-old me who turned up to the gym day in, day out. I’m fighting for the 15-year-old me who pushed past the first hurdles to go on and achieve success after,” said Watson.

“Secondly I’m boxing for my family. My younger brothers, sisters and cousins – to show them that if you want to commit yourself 100% then anything is possible. That’s something that I strongly believe.”

Watson has previously highlighted such fighters as Natasha Jonas and Katie Taylor as huge inspirations to her career. She wants to follow in the footsteps of those who impacted her involvement in the sport by doing the same for the future crop of female boxers.

“To see the progress that women’s boxing has made; female and male boxers hardly get separated in gyms much,” she says.

“Seeing how much I have progressed over the past decade is obviously something I’d like to use to get others inspired and involved. There’s so many pathways and opportunities for female fighters to do the same thing I love, it’s just a bonus for me if it can encourage anyone.”

Being able to encourage others and make statements can be a little bit easier on terrestrial television, and she will be taking the most of the opportunity to get her name out on free-to-air television.

“To be on Channel 5 and have all them eyes on me gives you that extra push. It makes you want to be in great fights and stand out so you can move towards achieving your goals,” said Watson.

“I believe this opportunity is really going to take me to the next level, it’s something I’m grateful for and I can’t wait to get the ball rolling on 17 June.”

The eyes of her fellow Liverpudlians will be keen to witness a new rising star from one of England’s greatest fighting cities. On a long list of her motivations, being moulded by a community that wants to support each other and share successes is something that fills her with added hunger to perform come fight night.

“I’m from an area where everyone likes to help one another and see each other succeed, and I appreciate the people of this city,” she said.

“I feel amazing about fighting in Liverpool to be honest. It is the best city when it comes to boxing, everyone wants to box there, I’ve never heard of any fighter say they’re not excited when a fight gets announced in Liverpool because the backing is just unbelievable. I feel very fortunate to be a part of it.”

Heavyweights collide as Nathan Gorman (18-1, 12 KOs) takes on Tomas Salek (17-3, 13 KOs) as part of a huge night of free-to-air boxing on Friday June 17 at the M&S Bank Arena. Featuring an electric British Super Flyweight Title Eliminator between Liverpool’s Marcel Braithwaite (12-3) and Thomas Essomba (11-7-1, 4 KOs), the professional debut of Aaron Chalmers, former Team GB fighter Chloe Watson (2-0) against Fara El Bousairi (5-2, 1 KO), plus the undefeated Paddy Lacey (2-0) , Mason ‘Nutty’ Cartwright (17-3, 7 KOs) and heavyweight giant ‘Magic’ Matty Harris (2-0, 1 KO). Promoted by Wasserman Boxing, live on Channel 5, in association with William Hill, Numan and Infinitum Entertainment.

Tickets are available via https://www.ticketquarter.co.uk/

JASON CUNNINGHAM WILL take on the biggest challenge of his career when he goes up against South African superstar Zolani Tete at the OVO Arena, Wembley on July 2, with world heavyweight contender Joe Joyce also featuring on a bumper card filled with must win fights, it’s High Stakes, live on BT Sport.

Callum Johnson (20-1, 14 KOs) faces Igor Mikhalkin (24-3, 11 KOs) for the WBO Global light heavyweight title in a fight between two punchers where neither man will want to give an inch.

Meanwhile, destructive lightweight Sam Noakes (9-0, 9 KOs) defends his WBC International Silver title against the Spaniard Marc Vidal (13-2-5, 5 KOs) as the Maidstone man aims to make it 10 stoppages in as many bouts.

Stoke favourite Nathan Heaney (15-0, 6 KOs) will fight in London for the first time in front of a crowd, making a defence of his IBO International middleweight championship.

Tickets for High Stakes at OVO Arena, Wembley on Saturday 2 July go on sale next week, fans are advised to sign-up for Ticket Alerts at frankwarren.com to receive an email ahead of the onsale.

Cunningham, 31-6 (7 KOs), demolished the previously unbeaten French challenger Terry Le Couviour in Telford in mid-April in what was the second defence of his EBU belt. The Renaissance Man of British boxing will bid to join the elite by taking on the formidable force of ‘Last Born’ Tete, 29-4 (22 KOs), who has been a regular and exciting feature on UK fight cards.

The two-weight world champion last held a world title at bantamweight with the WBO championship belt previously in his possession. Prior to this he held the IBF super flyweight title, won by defeating Paul Butler in Liverpool back in 2015.

A shock defeat to John Riel Casimero in Birmingham in late 2019 prompted a move to super bantamweight and Tete returned to the ring in typical fashion with a first-round stoppage in Johannesburg in December.

The Commonwealth and IBF International super-bantamweight championships will be on the line for a clash that has got the potential to be a FOTY candidate.

Joe Joyce (13-0, 12 KOs) will be getting back into the ring against an established heavyweight contender as he closes in on a September clash with Joseph Parker in what will be a battle between No.1 and No.2 with the WBO. Following a lay-off due to injury, the Juggernaut will return to the scene of his last fight, a sixth-round stoppage of Carlos Takam in July of last year.

A bout of Coronavirus denied Callum Johnson a world title shot against Joe Smith jr in January. After making his recovery, he will go up against former world title challenger Mikhalkin for WBO honours.

The Germany-based fighter was defeated by Sergey Kovalev in 2018 at Madison Square Garden, having previously won and defended the IBO World light heavyweight title, as well as the EBU European title.

Sam Noakes seeks a perfect 10 against Marc Vidal as he currently sits on 9 wins and 9 KOs. Vidal, 33, has previously fought former World champion Kiko Martinez on two occasions – a points defeat and technical draw – and is a former European champion and European Union champion at featherweight.

Nathan Heaney is taking his Stoke City show on the road after overcoming the adversity of a first round knockdown last time out against Diego Ramirez before winning comfortably on the cards.

Wycombe super lightweight Henry Turner (7-0, 1 KO) fighting over six rounds, and Thetford cruiserweight Tommy Fletcher will make his professional debut at the OVO Arena. The Norfolk Nightmare will make his bow in a four-rounder having recently signed with Frank Warren and Queensberry.

“The stakes are high for all the Queensberry boxers in action on July 2^nd at Wembley Arena, Live on BT Sport. Jason Cunningham vs Zolani Tete is about as even as matchmaking can be in Boxing and the same can be said regarding Callum Johnson vs Igor Mikhalkin. I’m predicting fan friendly action across both fights in matchups that will get the winners in the mix with the top guys in their respective divisions.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing the Heavyweight Juggernaut Joe Joyce back in action too. Joes had a frustration time since his demolition job on Carlo Takam last year. He’s not been as active as we or he would have liked due to a wrist injury and the delay to his showdown with Joseph Parker. We found out last week that Parker’s training schedule scuppered our plans for them to meet on July 2^nd, but it was important to us and Joe that he still fight after such a lengthy layoff with injury.

“The carrot for Joyce is a win on July 2 will set up a massive showdown with Parker in September. He needs to keep his focus, though, and deliver on July 2 as the big opportunities are now there to be taken for the Olympic Silver medallist.

“I am thrilled to deliver Jason Cunningham a massive fight and a huge test against Zolani Tete. Zolani has been with Queensberry for a long time, and we know what a top-class operator he is. Jason had no hesitation in taking the fight because his confidence is high, and he is an unbeaten fighter at super bantamweight.

“This is a fight between two top drawer and experienced campaigners that will bring out the best in each other and provide a treat for the watching public. It is a fight I cannot wait to see.

“The light heavyweight scene is hot at the moment and Callum Johnson will be looking to remind people why he believes he is top dog in the division. It was such a shame that his chance to prove it against Joe Smith jr fell through due to a bout of Covid-19 in January, but his time will come again and winning the WBC Silver title against the tough Igor Mikhalkin would put him right back in the mix.

“I am looking forward to seeing two of our crowd-pleasers in Sam Noakes and Nathan Heaney perform at Wembley.

“As well as seeing the much-anticipated debut of the giant Tommy Fletcher, it promises to be a thrilling night of action not to be missed.”

Tickets for High Stakes at OVO Arena, Wembley on Saturday 2 July go on sale next week, fans are advised to sign-up for Ticket Alerts at frankwarren.com to receive an email ahead of the onsale.

11-rated heavyweight Otto Wallin of Sweden cruised to a clear and workmanlike unanimous 10-round decision over disappointed hometown hopeful Rydell Booker tonight in the main event of Salita Promotions’ Detroit Brawl event in the Lincoln Ballroom of the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center in Dearborn, Michigan.

Booker (26-6-1, 13 KOs) started out having some limited success, but the superior conditioning and harder punches of the world-class Wallin (24-1, 14 KOs) eventually wore the Detroiter down to an ever-worsening degree as the rounds progressed. By the end of the final round, Wallin had things all his way, landing punishing shots to the head and body of his fatigued foe.

The scores were 99-91, 100-90 and 99-91.

“I want to say thanks to everyone who came out,” said a happy Wallin, post-fight. “It’s my first time in Michigan and I really enjoyed it. (Tyson) Fury forgot about me. He doesn’t want to fight, but I’m still going to be the next heavyweight champion from Sweden, no matter who I have to beat.”

IBF #4, WBA #13, WBO #11 and The Ring #7-rated contender Shohjahon Ergashev kept his world championship run alive and moved to 22-0, 19 KOs with a unanimous eight-round decision over Luis Alberto Veron (19-4-2, 9 KOs) of Argentina.

Despite having never been down before, Veron found himself on the canvas twice from the power punches of Ergashev, once in the second from a straight left and again in the fifth from a body shot. Veron was also cut over the right eye in round seven. Ergashev lost a point in round seven for pushing down on the head of Veron.

Although he saw his current knockout streak come to an end, Ergashev was never in any danger and cruised to a 79-70 unanimous victory from all three judges.

In with a “step-up” opponent, fast-rising super welterweight powerhouse Marlon “The Savage” Harrington (8-0, 7 KOs) of Detroit passed the test with flying colors by dismantling former contender Azael Cosio (21-10-2, 18 KOs) Santa Marta, Panama via a dominant fourth-round KO.

Showing good ring generalship, Harrington was in control throughout, landing several choice uppercuts and body shots before a hard right hand left Cosio in a heap in the neutral corner at the :38 second mark. No count was necessary, as Cosio was pouring blood from the right ear from the force of Harrington’s blows.

Former amateur star turned undefeated professional middleweight Joseph Hicks Jr. (2-0, 2 KOs) put on a body-shot clinic while taking out Argentinean veteran Bruno Leonardo Romay (21-10, 18 KOs) of Buenos Aires at 2:12 second round.

Boxing smoothly, Hicks was considerably faster than his South American foe. He whipped uppercuts to the chin and body shots to the pit of the stomach around his southpaw opponent’s wide left hands. He dropped a gasping Romay twice before referee Gerard White reached the 10 count.

Undefeated super welterweight Husam Al Mashhadi (3-0, 3 KOs) of Dearborn ran through pro debuting Milton Banks of Conroe, Texas. The power punching Mashhadi landed a pair of body shots, each producing a knockdown. And although Banks rose bravely from both, referee Frank Garza called a merciful halt at just 1:26 of the first.

Other Results:
Da’Velle Smith (3-0, 3 KOs) KO 1 (time 1:50) over Brandon Baue of Troy, Missouri.
Ferris Dixon Jr. (3-0, 2 KOs) KO 2 (time :38) over San Antonio’s Daniel Arriaga.
ABOUT THE FORD COMMUNITY & PERFORMING ARTS CENTER:

The mission of the Dearborn Recreation & Parks Department is to help fulfill the social, educational and recreational needs of children, adults and families by providing quality programs and activities in clean and well-maintained facilities and to achieve this through exemplary customer service. For more information, visit their OFFICIAL SITE.

ABOUT SALITA PROMOTIONS:

Salita Promotions was founded in 2010 by Dmitriy Salita, a professional boxer and world-title challenger who saw the need for a promotional entity to feature boxing’s best young prospects and established contenders in North America and around the world. Viewers watching fighters on worldwide television networks including Showtime, HBO, ESPN, Spike TV, Universal Sports Network, UFC Fight Pass, DAZN, ESPN+ and MSG have enjoyed Salita Promotions fight action in recent years. We pride ourselves on offering our fighters opportunities inside and outside the ring. Salita Promotions looks forward to continuing to grow and serve the needs of fight fans around the globe.

Check the Salita Promotions YOUTUBE CHANNEL for regular updates of the modern world’s greatest fighters, contenders and prospects in action.

Raymond Ford will face unbeaten local talent Richard Medina at the Tech Port Arena in San Antonio, Texas on Saturday June 25 live worldwide on DAZN – with fellow young guns Marc Castro, Nikita Ababiy and Khalil Coe in action on the undercard of the quadruple header of World title action, led by San Antonio’s own Jesse Rodriguez making the first defense of his WBC World Super-Flyweight title against Srisaket Sor Rungvisai.
Tickets starting at $35 (plus fees) are on sale now – click here for more details
Ford (11-0-1 6 KOs) steps through the ropes in his fourth title fight and puts the WBA Continental Americas Featherweight strap on the line that he won by split decision in his last outing, edging out another unbeaten man in Edward Vazquez in Phoenix.

‘Savage’ is ranked at #8 with the WBA and is closing in on the top five and can make an impact in the IBF rankings too, with the IBF North American belt on the line and Ford currently sitting at #13 with the organization.

Those belts and rankings will have Medina (13-0 7 KOs) licking his lips as he fights for a title for the first time in career and on home turf. The 21 year old landed his seventh win inside the distance in his last outing in March, forcing Armando Frausto to retire after seven rounds of their clash in San Antonio.

“This is the third time in my last five fights that I’ve gone and taken on an undefeated fighter in front of their fans,” said Ford. “I don’t see any of these other prospects stepping up to the plate.

“They keep putting these guys in front of them and I’m going to keep handling my business. I know I’m going right to the top in this game and if I have to do it the hard way by fighting these guys in their hometowns, then that’s what I’m going to do.”

“I’m excited and thankful for the opportunity,” said Medina. “I want to thank my promoter Rick Morones of TMB Promotions and my manager Greg Hannley, and Matchroom for the opportunity. I’m looking forward to fighting in my hometown and putting on a spectacular show for my fans and family.

“Getting to fight on the undercard of one of my closest friends, ‘Bam’ Rodriguez, who I’ve known practically my whole life and grew up fighting with, is an honor. I’m ready to showcase my skills to the world.”

Ford and Medina will close the ‘Before The Bell’ broadcast on a huge night of action in Texas, and the New Jersey talent is joined by more rising American stars on a stacked bill.

Marc Castro (7-0 5 KOs) tastes action for the third time in 2022 and does so against unbeaten Puerto Rican Jean Guerra Vargas (6-0 1 KO) over eight rounds at Lightweight. Castro landed his seventh win in the paid ranks earlier in the month in his fourth fight on a Canelo Alvarez card, and the Fresno talent is grateful to be so active as he continues to hone his craft and test himself against the hungry Vargas.

“I’m grateful to stay healthy and stay active,” said Castro. “I’m continuing to work hard daily and ready to put on a show for my supporters.”

Nikita Ababiy (11-0 6 KOs) fights for the first time in 2022, and ‘White Chocolate’ believes he’ll dazzle as he takes on Noe Larrios Jr (14-1 6 KOs) over eight rounds at Middleweight.

“I’m super excited to get back in that ring and show everyone what I’ve been working on,” said Ababiy. “I’m just excited for everyone to see me show out. I know everybody missed the White Chocolate, time to make some noise again and give the people the excitement they’re missing!”

Big hitting Light-Heavyweight Khalil Coe (3-0-1 2 KOs) is back in action in his fourth paid outing, and takes on unbeaten Dominican Joaquin Berroa Lugo (3-0 2 KOs) over six rounds.

“June 25, Big Steppa, we are back at it,” said Coe. “I’m fighting an undefeated opponent and these are the challenges I want. I know what I’m capable of and the ability I have and I’m excited to showcase my skills. This is opportunity for me to show just how good I am and that’s exactly what I plan on doing.”

Rodriguez and Rungvisai headline a huge night of action with those young talents joined by three more World title tussles.

Julio Cesar Martinez (18-2 14 KOs) and McWilliams Arroyo (21-4 16 KOs) pick up where they left off from their curtailed firefight for Martinez’s WBC World Flyweight title, where both men hit the canvas in the opening round and Arroyo touched down again in the second, before the action in New Hampshire in November had to be halted after Arroyo suffered a nasty cut from an accidental headclash.

World title clash number three on the bumper card will see IBF and WBA World Super-Bantamweight champion Murodjon Akhmadaliev defend his titles against Ronny Rios. The pair were set to meet in New Hampshire in November, but COVID ruled Rios out and he was replaced by game late challenger Jose Velasquez. Akhmadaliev (10-0 7 KOs) retained his belts with a near-shutout on the cards, going the distance for just the third time in his 10^th pro bout, and second as a World champion. Rios (33-3 16 KOs), the mandatory challenger for the WBA crown, goes for glory for the second time in his 36-fight career after challenging Rey Vargas for the WBC strap at 122lbs in August 2016.

Undisputed Welterweight ruler Jessica McCaskill (11-2 4 KOs) makes the third defense of all her marbles at 147lbs against Alma Ibarra (10-1, 4 KOs). McCaskill ripped the straps from long-standing ruler Cecilia Braekhus on the streets of Downtown Tulsa in August 2020 and saw off the Norwegian in a rematch for her first defense in March 2021. The Chicagoan recorded the fourth stoppage win of her career in the second defense of the belts in December, ending Kandi Wyatt’s challenge in the seventh, and will face the tough test in the form of Ibarra.

TEMECULA, Calif. (May 26, 2022) — Southern California 140-pound standout Arnold Barboza Jr. wanted the main event spotlight. He’ll get his opportunity to shine when he takes on Puerto Rican contender Danielito “El Zorro” Zorrilla in a 10-round junior welterweight showdown Friday, July 15, at the Pechanga Summit at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California. 
 
Tokyo 2020 U.S. Olympic silver medalists Keyshawn Davis and Richard Torrez Jr. will return on the card, with Davis battling Jair “Kaiser” Valtierra in the eight-round lightweight co-feature. Torrez will open the televised broadcast in a six-round heavyweight special attraction versus Roberto Zavala Jr.
 
Barboza-Zorrilla, Davis-Valtierra and Torrez-Zavala will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
 
Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Ringside Ticket Inc., tickets starting at $29 are on sale now and can be purchased at Pechanga.com.
 
Barboza (26-0, 10 KOs), from South El Monte, California, is a nine-year pro who is closing in on a world title shot following a series of headline-grabbing victories. In April 2019, he knocked out former world champion Mike Alvarado in three rounds, a resounding Los Angeles homecoming that solidified him as a top contender. Barboza has won five bouts since, securing one-sided verdicts over Ricky Sismundo, William Silva, Tony Luis, Alex Saucedo, and Antonio Moran. He comes back following an 11-month layoff, the second-longest of his career. Ranked No. 8 by the WBO and No. 11 by the WBC, Barboza hopes a dominating win over his unbeaten foe will earn him that long-awaited title opportunity.
 
“I’ve been waiting for this for a long time. This fight will put the other fighters at 140 pounds on notice. We’re going to take full advantage of it,” Barboza said. “Zorrilla is undefeated, ranked, and coming off a great win. We’re going to make a statement on July 15. I want a world title shot soon, and I’m going to keep pushing forward and fighting whoever they put in front of me.”
 
Zorrilla (16-0, 12 KOs) is a native of a Toa Baja, Puerto Rico, who had more than 100 victories before turning pro with a second-round knockout in November 2016. The 28-year-old, ranked No. 10 by the WBO at 140 pounds, has diced through his opposition in the paid ranks with 11 knockouts in three rounds or less. He went 2-0 in 2021, edging past Ruslan Madiyev in March and knocking out former interim world champion Pablo Cesar Cano in two rounds in September. A renaissance man who has an associate degree in banking and cuts hair out of his home-based barbershop, Zorrilla can cut past the line of contenders with a victory over Barboza.
 
“I am extremely grateful for this opportunity, and I want to thank Miguel Cotto Promotions and Top Rank,” Zorrilla said. “We have been waiting for an opportunity of this magnitude. Arnold Barboza Jr. is a quality opponent, and I’ve always wanted an at-bat against a top contender. I am working very hard, and I will be at 100 percent on July 15 to continue my journey to a junior welterweight world championship.”
 
Davis (5-0, 4 KOs), the fighting prodigy from Norfolk, Virginia, has been on a whirlwind ride to stardom over the past year-plus. In February 2021, he turned pro on a Canelo Alvarez undercard in Miami, fought on another Canelo card at AT&T Stadium in Texas, earned his Olympic silver medal, signed a multi-year promotional contract with Top Rank, and made his Top Rank debut in December with a second-round knockout at Madison Square Garden. He fought April 30 on the Oscar Valdez-Shakur Stevenson card at MGM Grand Garden Arena, knocking out Mexican veteran Esteban Sanchez in six rounds. Valtierra (16-1, 8 KOs), from Leon, Mexico, is a four-year pro who previously held the WBC Latino lightweight title. Last August, he suffered an upset knockout loss to Alberto Ruiz Ibarra. Three months later, Valtierra got back on the winning track with a convincing 10-round decision over Argentina’s Javier Jose Clavero.
 
“Every time I fight, I try to give the fans something to remember, and I’m excited to make my Southern California debut. I will put on a show for everyone watching on ESPN, that much I can guarantee,” Davis said. “We know Valtierra is coming to fight, and I’ll be ready to match whatever he brings.”
 
Torrez (1-0, 1 KO), from Tulare, California, is a 22-year-old southpaw who became the first U.S. Olympic super heavyweight medalist since 1988. He made his pro debut on March 4 in Fresno, California, knocking out Allen Melson in the second round. Torrez sustained a cut along his right eyebrow in the first round, which delayed his second outing by a couple of months. Zavala (2-1-1, 2 KOs), from Del Rio, Texas, has never fought outside Texas. He has never been stopped in the paid ranks and is coming off a four-round draw against the 2-0 Rudy Silvas. The 34-year-old has never weighed under 255 pounds as a pro and should have a significant size advantage over Torrez, who tipped the scales at 228¼ pounds for his debut.
 
Torrez said, “Ever since that cut in my pro debut, I’ve been counting down the days until my next fight. I’m thankful to be fighting on ESPN and back in my home state. If you don’t know why you should watch me, you will soon.”
 
Undercard action, streaming live and exclusively on ESPN+, includes SoCal lightweight sensation Raymond “Danger” Muratalla in an eight-rounder against an opponent to be named. Muratalla (14-0, 12 KOs), a 25-year-old from Fontana, California, has knocked out nine consecutive opponents. He last fought April 30 on the Valdez-Stevenson card in Las Vegas, knocking out the usually durable Jeremy Hill in three rounds.
 
The undercard will also see heavyweight contender Stephan Shaw (16-0, 12 KOs) in an eight-rounder, and Las Vegas-born junior featherweight prospect Floyd “Cashflow” Diaz (4-0, 1 KO) in a six-rounder against Pedro Salome (3-0-1, 1 KO).

Elite British boxing talent descended on Camden Boxing Club in London today for a range of Open Workouts ahead of the upcoming BOXXER: Riakporhe vs Turchi event taking place at the OVO Arena Wembley on Saturday June 11, live on Sky Sports.

The assembled boxers – including world cruiserweight contender Richard Riakporhe and English Middleweight Champion Germaine Brown, who defends against Zak Chelli, worked out for the assembled media and gave their thoughts afterwards.

Richard Riakporhe

faces Fabio Turchi in IBF World Cruiserweight Championship Eliminator

“My camp to prepare for this fight has done me so much good. I think this is going to be the best performance of my career.”

“I’m going to win a contest of punching power, if that’s what it becomes. 

“I just want to improve in every single way. At the gym we made a pact that we aim to improve every single performance, and we wanna give the fans what they want, they want to see a fight, they want to see knockdowns and knockouts. That’s what we train to do in the gym and that’s why people like to watch Richard Riakporhe.”

Viddal Riley:

Cruiserweight Prospect

“In the next 12 months I’d like to pick up a title. I don’t know which title yet.”

“Whenever I boxed in my last fight, I had the most success. Whenever I chased the knockout it got further away. So I’m just going to enjoy this fight, my first fight in London, my homecoming. And normally when I enjoy myself, a knockout follows.” 

“The only pressure on me is the pressure I put on myself. I know my full potential, I didn’t show it in my last fight because of the two years I’d had out of the ring. But I’m back to it now, I’m ready.”

Zak Chelli

English Super-Middleweight Contender

“I’m a higher rank than him, I’ve fought better opponents than him, he’s fought nobody really.”

“I think I’ve got better power than him. People think I’m not a technical boxer, but the better the boxer the better I fight.”

“I don’t believe this goes 10 rounds. God willing I’ll knock him out.”

Germaine Brown

Defending English Super-Middleweight Champion

“It’s gonna come down to who wants it more. Me and the team have a game plan and we’re gonna stick to it. It might go the distance but he comes forward a lot, he might walk into something.”

Chris Kongo 

faces Sebastian Formella in a Welterweight Contest

“I’m going to showcase everything I’ve been doing in the gym. All the drills I’ve been doing have been in my mind constantly. Watching videos of my opponent, watching videos of myself sparring. I make sure I watch it before I go to bed and when I wake up. When I’m at the gym I’m thinking about it constantly so I’m ready to perform now.”

“I believe I can stop anyone. If I put my mind to it, I believe I can get him out of there. The main thing I’m worried about is showcasing my skills. It’s not a big deal if I get the rounds in, that’ll be better for me. 

“I’m just thinking about every single round what I’m going to do to him… I’m not thinking about anyone else other than Formella. That’s all I’ve been thinking about since the fight was announced.”

“I’m gonna make a big statement come June 11th. I speak it, I believe it, and I can’t wait to showcase it.”

Jeamie TKV: 

Heavyweight

“I don’t feel pressure. Everyone has their own path, their own career. We’re all gonna get there at some point. We’re all gonna meet each other at some point. But I don’t feel any pressure, I feel like everyone has their own journey and this is my journey, how I wanna take it and how I wanna go is the way I’m gonna do it, so no pressure at all.”

“I’m just trying to entertain, I say it all the time. Not to say my last performance was a bad one but I just wanna put on an even better performance.”

Ebonie Jones:

Super-Bantamweight

 “I don’t think the best of me has been seen at all yet. If I don’t perform well on June 11th then there’s nothing else I can do because I’ve trained so hard for this fight.” 

“I want to show I can box. I’ve got a lot of skill and I don’t think that’s been shown completely yet”

“Obviously the aim is to get a world title, so I’ll fight whoever’s in the way for that”

Shannon Ryan: 

Super-Flyweight

“Ever since I was five years old, I’ve known I was born to be on a stage and I believe I’m good enough to be here. I don’t have the boxing accolades or the amateur background but I’m someone showing you can do this no matter what background you’re from. 

“I’m just so focused and dedicated to get myself to the top of my division. So the nerves are there, I can’t deny that, but this is what I love to do. I want to inspire younger people that no matter what you do, not just in sport but in life, if you put your focus to it and your mind to it you can achieve what you want.”

Otto Wallin 241.5 lbs. vs. Rydell Booker 262.5 lbs.
Shohjahon Ergashev 141.2 lbs. vs. Luis Alberto Veron 143.4 lbs.
Husam Al Mashhadi 152.4 lbs. vs. Milton Banks 151 lbs.
Marlon Harrington 153.4 lbs. vs. Azael Cosio 153 lbs.
Joseph Hicks Jr. 163.4 lbs. vs. Bruno Leonardo Romay 164.6 lbs.
Da’Velle Smith 162.2 Lbs. vs. Brandon Baue NA
Ferris Dixon Jr. 131.6 lbs. vs. Daniel Arriaga NA

Promoter: Salita Promotions
Venue: Ford Community & Performing Arts Center, Dearborn, MI
Tickets: Start at $40 and can be purchased by clicking. PLEASE NOTE: Tickets ordered online will be placed in will call at the box office for pick-up. A limited quantity of VIP tickets is also available by calling 313.529.7604.

The Ford Community & Performing Arts Center is located at 15801 Michigan Ave. in Dearborn. On fight night, doors open at 6:00 pm and the action starts at 7:00 pm.

LAS VEGAS (May 25, 2022) – Past World Boxing Organization (WBO) Global Super Featherweight title challenger Diego “Cuchis” Andrade (14-6-2, 1 KO) has replaced injured Irving “Poderoso” Castillo (12-2, 8 KOs) in the June 2nd championship final of the inaugural “WCBS 4-Man Lightweight Tournament”, against hot prospect and hometown hero Luis “Koreano” Torres (15-0, 10 KOs), at Palenque de la Expo in Obregón, Sonora, Mexico.

Castillo reportedly suffered a torn bicep during training camp.

The inaugural “WCBS 4-Man Lightweight Tournament,” presented by Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions (RJJ Boxing), will headline the June 2nd installment of RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS®. The 10-round Torres vs. Andrade’s main event will be contested for the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) Latino Lightweight Championship belt.

All the action will be streamed live and exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT. To sign-up for UFC FIGHT PASS, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com.

Andrade last fought this past November 10th, in which he won a 10-round decision over Jose Rodriguez Villareal. The consummate boxer, Andrade’s most notable victories to date were decisions against 29-1-2 Jorge “Pilon” Lara and 16-4-1 Alex Reyes.

The 20-year-old Torres has been the tournament favorite since it was announced. He has become a regular fighter on RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS with this being his eighth appearance. A gifted all-around boxer, the lefthanded Torres is a former WBC Youth Silver Lightweight Champion, as well as a rising lightweight star.

The Torres vs. Andrade fight, if needed, will have an “overtime” round to declare a winner in the event of a draw upon the conclusion of the scheduled distance. The World Boxing Council (WBC) sanctions the tournament, and the eventual victor will not only be crowned the new WBC Latino Lightweight Champion but also receive a WBC world rating.

There are four other lightweight matches scheduled on this stacked card.

In the co-featured event, Bryan “Zam” Zamarripa (10-1, 3 KOs) takes on his unbeaten countryman, Yair Marmoleto Rojas (7-0-2, 5 KOs), in a schedule 8-round bout.

Promising 19-year-old prospect Marco Cota Moreno (6-0, 4 KOs) returns to RJJ Boxing at UFC FIGHT PASS in a 6-round match against Juna Leonel “LA Vijola” Ortega Resendez (4-2-1, 2 KOs). Moreno was a decorated amateur boxer who had a 146-4 record, highlighted by five-Sonora State championship title-winning performances.

In a 4-rounder, Pedro Peninuri Borgaro (2-0, 1 KO) faces Hector Avila Lozano (1-0, 1 KO) in the UFC FIGHT PASS opener.

INFORMATION:

Websites: http://www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com, www.ufcfightpass.com

Facebook: /UFCFightPass, /WorldCupBoxingSeries

Twitter: @UFCFightPass, @RoyjonesJRfa, @RoyJonesJrOfficial

Instagram: @UFCFightPass, @WorldCup_Boxing_Series, @RoyJonesJrBoxing

ABOUT ROY JONES JR, BOXING PROMOTIONS: Co-founded in 2013 by 10-time world champion Roy Jones, Jr. and Keith Veltre, Roy Jones, Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions is on its way to reinventing boxing. RJJ has already made a huge impact in the boxing community in a few short years. Creating exhilarating content for UFC Fight Pass, CBS Sports, Showtime, ESPN and beIN Sports in some of the finest venues across the country, RJJ has proven it is conquering the sweet science of the sport.

ABOUT UFC FIGHT PASS®: UFC FIGHT PASS® is the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. Since launching in 2013, UFC FIGHT PASS is now available in more than 200 countries and territories. UFC FIGHT PASS provides its members with unlimited access to live UFC FIGHT PASS Prelims; live mixed martial arts and combat sports from around the world; original series and historical programming; special features; behind-the-scenes content; in-depth interviews; and up-to-the minute reports on the world of combat sports. UFC FIGHT PASS subscribers also have 24/7 access to the world’s largest fight library, featuring more than 20,000 bouts from dozens of combat sports organizations, as well as every fight in UFC history. Fight fans can access UFC FIGHT PASS on personal computers, iOS and Android mobile devices, Apple TV, Xbox One, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Sony TVs with Android TV. For more information, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com.

This Thursday (May 26), all-time-great five-weight world champion Thomas “Hitman” Hearns and world-famous manager, author and publicist Jackie Kallen will be heading up a stellar group of Detroit boxing legends (including a host of Kronk world champions such as Hilmer Kenty and Milton McCrory) descending on Dearborn, Michigan, to be in attendance and help celebrate the return of big-time professional boxing to the once-great boxing city.

One of the city’s biggest shows in many years, the Detroit Brawl will be presented by Salita Promotions in the Lincoln Ballroom of the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center in Dearborn and headlined by WBC #11-rated heavyweight Otto Wallin (23-1, 14 KOs) facing Detroit-born Rydell Booker (26-5-1, 13 KOs) in the night’s 10-round main event.

Tickets for “Detroit Brawl” start at $40 and can be purchased by clicking. PLEASE NOTE: Tickets ordered online will be placed in will call at the box office for pick-up. A limited quantity of VIP tickets is also available by calling 313.529.7604.

“It’s wonderful to have this level of competition in Detroit,” said the great Thomas Hearns. “I am excited for Rydell Booker to have this opportunity and I hope he will make the most of it.”

Celebrating 40 years in boxing, Kallen, who served as Hearns’ publicist for many of his best years in the ring before going on to find fame as the manager of the great James Toney, agrees the main event is a huge opportunity for the former amateur standout Booker and says she’s coming to celebrate the return of important boxing to the city with her old friends from the Kronk Gym.

“Detroit was the mecca for boxing in the 70s with so many great fighters and then it got quiet,” acknowledged Kallen, “but now it seems like the shows are coming back. That’s a great sign. We need the regularity of a Detroit Brawl series. That consistency is what we needed to build boxing back up again.”

An entertainment journalist before catching the boxing bug, Kallen’s life was the inspiration for the 2004 film Against the Ropes, starring Meg Ryan. She managed her first world champion in 1991, when James Toney knocked out Michael Nunn to win the IBF World Middleweight title. She is also the author of two books – “Hit Me With Your Best Shot” and “Between the Ropes” and makes appearances nationwide as a motivational speaker.

“It’s going to be such a great card,” said Kallen. “I’m so excited to see Otto and Rydell. It’s a great opportunity for Rydell. When you’re fighting a guy whose only loss was to Tyson Fury, that’s the highest level fighter he’ll come in contact with at this stage of his career, so I know he’s taking it seriously and will show up ready to try and pull off this upset.”

In the 10-round super lightweight co-main event, undefeated IBF #4, WBA #13, WBO #11 and RING #7 Shohjahon Ergashev (21-0, 19 KOs), from Rakhmon, Uzbekistan, and now living and training in Detroit, taking on South American Champion Luis Alberto Veron (19-3-2, 9 KOs) of Jose Leon Suarez, Buenos Aires, Argentina.

“Detroit and the State of Michigan are a talent hub for some of the greatest fighters in our sport, past and present,” said event promoter Dmitriy Salita. “I am delighted that legends like Jackie Kallen and Tommy Hearns will be on-hand to witness the present and future of boxing in Detroit.”

On the undercard, rising super welterweight powerhouse Marlon Harrington (7-0, 6 KOs) will appear in an eight-round showdown against South American veteran Azael “Turbo” Cosio (21-9-2, 18 KOs), while fast-tracking former national amateur champion and undefeated professional middleweight Joseph Hicks Jr. (1-0, 1 KO) of Grand Rapids, Michigan will appear in a six-round battle against Argentinean southpaw Bruno Leonardo Romay (21-9-2, 18 KOs).

Fighting in supporting bouts will be a trio of undefeated Michigan prospects, including super welterweight Husam Al Mashhadi (3-0, 3 KOs) of Dearborn facing pro-debuting Texan Milton Banks, as well as super lightweight Ferris Dixon Jr. (2-0, 1 KO) and also undefeated super welterweight Da’Velle Smith (2-0, 2 KOs), both of Detroit.

All remaining opponents will be announced shortly and all bouts are subject to change. The Ford Community & Performing Arts Center is located at 15801 Michigan Ave. in Dearborn. On fight night, doors open at 6:00 pm and the action starts at 7:00 pm.
ABOUT THE FORD COMMUNITY & PERFORMING ARTS CENTER:

The mission of the Dearborn Recreation & Parks Department is to help fulfill the social, educational and recreational needs of children, adults and families by providing quality programs and activities in clean and well-maintained facilities and to achieve this through exemplary customer service. For more information, visit their OFFICIAL SITE.

ABOUT SALITA PROMOTIONS:

Salita Promotions was founded in 2010 by Dmitriy Salita, a professional boxer and world-title challenger who saw the need for a promotional entity to feature boxing’s best young prospects and established contenders in North America and around the world. Viewers watching fighters on worldwide television networks including Showtime, HBO, ESPN, Spike TV, Universal Sports Network, UFC Fight Pass, DAZN, ESPN+ and MSG have enjoyed Salita Promotions fight action in recent years. We pride ourselves on offering our fighters opportunities inside and outside the ring. Salita Promotions looks forward to continuing to grow and serve the needs of fight fans around the globe.

Check the Salita Promotions YOUTUBE CHANNEL for regular updates of the modern world’s greatest fighters, contenders and prospects in action.

QUINCY, Mass. (May 25, 2022) – Granite Chin Promotions has announced it will present the first pro boxing doubleheader in Massachusetts history, “Road 2 Stardom”, at Sheraton Hotel in Framingham.

“Road 2 Stardom” will be available to watch both shows via live stream at BXNGTV.COM for only $24.99.

“I am excited to be throwing the first doubleheader show in Massachusetts,” Granite Chin president Chris Traietti said. “I did it in New Hampshire with great success and have no doubt that bringing events like this to Massachusetts will also be a huge success. Both cards are loaded with talent, and I look forward to seeing how some of the fighters respond to the uptick in competition. Both cards are going to be action packed and we expect the Sheraton to be flooded with boxing fans.”

Undefeated Springfield (MA) welterweight prospect Denzel “Double Impact” Whitley (8-0, 6 KOs) will be the headliner of the evening’s portion of the event for the first time during his young career. Whitley faces Brazilian Maycon Oller Da Silva (1-4, 1 KO) in the 6-round main event.

Another undefeated fighter, Pittsfield (MA) super middleweight Steve Sumpter (5-0, 5 KOs), will headline the day card in an 8-round match versus Manny “Shake Em’ Up” Woods (17-16-1, 6 KOs).

In the co-featured event at night, Bay State rivals Nathan Balakin (3-1, 1 KO), of Tyngsboro, and Attleboro’s Bryan Urday (2-1) will battle in a 6-round bout for the vacant Massachusetts Welterweight Championship.

Undefeated welterweight Nicholas “Saint Nick” Molina puts his 9-0 (3 KOs) record on the line in a 6-round match with upset-minded Argentinian Jose “El Chino” Aubel (8-10, 7 KOs), while Woburn (MA) junior lightweight Julien “Back Dragon” Baptiste (3-2, 2 KOs) plans to make amends in a rematch against Alfred “Keenan” Raymond (1-2), of Warwick (RI), who won their first encounter last November by way of a 4-round split decision.

In two other 6-round fights, undefeated Floridian welterweight Josniel “TG) Castro (8-0, 6 KOs) returns against Georgian Bryan Goldsby (5-16), and impressive Springfield (MA) super middleweight Laurent Humes (5-0, 5 KOs) throws down with veteran Larry “Slo Mo” Smith (13-50-2, 9 KOs).

The delayed professional debut of Brockton welterweight David Ribeiro, a 2020 New England Golden Gloves champion, is scheduled to meet Rakim Johnson (6-17-1, 5 KOs) in a 4-rounder. Ribeiro was originally slated to make his debut May 7th, but his opponent pulled out at the last moment.

In the evening’s opener, Rob “The Golden Boy” Nolette (1-1, 1 KO), of Providence, faces DeWayne Wisdom (7-61, 3 KOs) in a 4-rounder.

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In the day’s co-feature, local favorite Raphael Torres (1-0, 1 KO), fighting out of nearby Marlboro (MA), is matched against Brazilian Igor Pessoa (0-2) in a 4-round bout contested at a 185-pound catchweight.

Other 4-round fights during the afternoon session include Florida light heavyweight Carlos Arredondo (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. TBA, Swansea (MA) junior middleweight Anthony “The Gentle Savage” Andreozzi (2-2, 1 KO) vs. Rynell Griffin (8-52-2, 2 KOs), Dracut (MA) lightweight Gabriel “Menace” Morales (3-0, 2 KOs) vs. Issac Haynes (0-1), Methuen junior middleweight Luke Iannuccilli (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Robert Bricks (0-10), and Scott “Bombz” Lampert (2-5, 2 KOs) vs. Andrew Nolan (0-4) at a 195-pound catchweight.

Both cards are subject to change.

Separate admission tickets are available for purchase at tickerriver.com (Search: Road2Stardom): day – $45.00 (general admission), $60.00 (ringside) and $750.00 for a table of 10; night – $50.00 (general admission), $75.00 (ringside) and $1,000 for a table of 10.

Doors open at 1:00 pm ET and 7 p.m. ET, respectively, with first bouts at 1:30 p.m. ET and 7:30 p.m. ET.

PHILADELPHIA PA (May 25, 2022)–RDR Promotions returns to the 2300 Arena with a big night of boxing on Friday night, June 24th.

Seeing action in a six-round bout will be crowd favorite Cameron Krael (18-23-3, 5 KOs) of Las Vegas taking on Vincent Floyd (4-12-1, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia in a middleweight fight.

Edgar Joe Cortes (9-6-1, 1 KO) of Millville, NJ battles Gorwar Karyah (2-2, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia in a super bantamweight affair.

Jabril Noble (3-0, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Nasiti Mickens (2-1, 1 KO) in a battle of Philadelphia-based super featherweights.

Taking part in four-round bouts will be super featherweight Ofacio Falcon (6-0, 5 KOs) of Bronx, NY; super featherweight Rashan Adams (2-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia; super lightweight Isaiah Johnson (4-0, 4 KOs) of Sicklerville, NJ; super flyweight Edwin Cortes (2-0) of Millville, NJ; welterweight Nimal Farmer (1-0, 1 KO) of Lindenwold, New Jersey; debuting lightweight Karl Wylie of Coatesville, PA; debuting heavyweight Romelle Terrell of Chapel Hill, NC

In a super lightweight bout winless fighters Anthony Young (0-4) of Philadelphia and Rahiem Cooke (0-2) of Philadelphia in a super lightweight contest.

Jerrod Miner (2-14-2, 1 KO) of Philadelphia battles Frank Boston (3-6, 1 KO) of San Antonio, Texas will meet in a Bantamweight fight.

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

https://2300arena.showare.com/orderticketsvenue.asp?p=422

Jesus Martinez will make his professional debut on Friday June 10 at the Domo Alcalde in Guadalajara, live worldwide on DAZN, in the latest installment of Matchroom and DAZN’s fight series in Mexico, in association with Canelo Promotions and Clase Y Talento.

TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW STARTING AT $150 PESOS FROM STAGEFRONT.COM
Martinez leaves the amateur scene as a 14-time US National champion, former International amateur champion and boasting a record of 137-9. The 17 year old from Del Rio, Texas, will campaign at Bantamweight and takes on Daniel Nunez Gomez (1-1) on his pro bow, and ‘Panterita’ is raring to make his first steps in the paid ranks.

“First and foremost, I’m really excited and pumped up to be on a Matchroom and DAZN show,” said Martinez. “I’m excited to be able to show the world all my skills and what I am about. I can’t wait for June 10 to show real fireworks.”

Earlier in the year, Martinez signed with new management company International Sports Group, founded by Hall of Fame great Joe Calzaghe and London fan favorite Darren Barker, as well as training with Robert Garcia. The former World champions made the teen sensation their first signing, and ex-Middleweight king Barker believes that they have a future champion on their hands.

“I’m excited to unleash Jesus on the pro ranks,” said Barker. “He’s a lovely lad and he can really fight, it’s in his blood. He’s got unbelievable amateur pedigree, I asked him why not wait to try to make the Olympics as you are number one in the country, but he said he didn’t want to be an Olympian, because his aspirations aren’t just to be a World champion, but a multi-weight champion. He’s a tremendous talent and a future star, there’s no doubt about it.”

Martinez’s pro debut is part of a stacked card in Mexico, headlined by a World title double-header as WBA Super and Ring Magazine World Light-Flyweight champion Hiroto Kyoguchi defending his straps against Esteban 
Bermudez and Mayerlin Rivas will defend her WBA World Super-Bantamweight title against Isis Vargas Perez.

Jorge Castaneda and Eduardo Hernandez meet for the WBC International Super-Featherweight title in a huge fight for the division, Diego Pacheco (14-0 11 KOs) continues to be a must-watch talent and the 21 year old ticks off another major milestone as he stretches his legs over the ten round distance for the first time against Raul Ortega (10-2 7 KOs), Aaron Aponte fights for the sixth time in the paid ranks against Leo Leon Martinez (2-1 2 KOs) and Eddie Hearn’s latest signing, Anthony Herrera (2-0 2 KOs), faces Kennyn Valenzuela (5-2 4 KOs) in his first six rounder.

BROOKLYN – May 25, 2022 – Super welterweight contender Luis “Cuba” Arias will face Jimmy Williams in a 10-round showdown, while exciting welterweight prospect Jalil “Major” Hackett takes on unbeaten Jose Belloso for a six-round attraction in undercard bouts that will stream live on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube page this Saturday, May 28 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

The streaming action will begin at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and lead into the highly-anticipated SHOWTIME PPV lineup headlined by WBA Lightweight Champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis, boxing’s hottest young attraction, taking on unbeaten No.1 ranked contender and mandatory challenger Rolando Romero. SHOWTIME has tapped a notable announce team to host the streamed fights on Saturday’s pre-show as veteran combat sports reporter Brian Campbell of MORNING KOMBAT, NBA champion Stephen Jackson of ALL THE SMOKE, and former unified world champion Julian “J-Rock” Williams will call the preliminary action live from the 40/40 Club inside Barclays Center and look ahead to the PPV bouts.

Campbell will also serve as the host of Friday’s live-streamed weigh-in with Jackson and former world champion Raul Marquez covering the weigh-in and breaking down the fights. Former NBA superstar Tracy McGrady will also join Friday’s weigh-in stream as a special guest from the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel, SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page, and the Premier Boxing Champions YouTube page.

The SHOWTIME PPV begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features two division world champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara defending his WBA Middleweight Title against hard-hitting Gary “Spike” O’Sullivan in the co-main event. Plus, sensational young star Jesús “Mono” Ramos faces Luke Santamaría in a 10-round super welterweight showdown, while hard-hitting contender Eduardo Ramírez battles Puerto Rico’s Luis Meléndez in the 10-round super featherweight telecast opener.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets are also available for purchase at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.

A native of Milwaukee who now trains out of Las Vegas, Mayweather Promotions’ Arias (19-3-1, 9 KOs) will look to bounce back on Saturday night from a split-decision loss to Vaughn Alexander in December. Prior to that fight, Arias had scored a career-best victory in June 2021, as he earned a decision victory over former unified champion Jarrett Hurd on the Mayweather vs. Paul SHOWTIME PPV undercard. Arias has also battled former champion Daniel Jacobs and owns a draw against veteran contender Gabriel Rosado. He will take on New Haven, Connecticut’s Williams (18-7-2, 6 KOs), who also will be looking to return to the win column after dropping a March contest to unbeaten Tyron James. The 35-year-old Williams owns a 2021 victory over former champion Yuri Foreman and has fought everywhere from 140 to 160 pounds throughout his career, having faced top contenders such as Brandun Lee and Abel Ramos.

Hackett (3-0, 2 KOs), a fast-rising prospect in the Mayweather Promotions’ stable, will look to continue his road toward becoming the next great fighter representing Washington, D.C. as he continues his burgeoning pro career on Saturday night. The 19-year-old turned pro in June 2021, scoring a first-round knockout of Angelo Diaz. He followed that up with another first-round knockout in October, before earning a shutout four-round unanimous decision over Darynn Levya in December. He will face off against the fellow unbeaten Belloso (4-0, 4 KOs), who is yet to go the distance since turning pro in June 2021. The 29-year-old is originally from Carson, California and now resides in Arkansas, having most recently stopped Anthony Woods in three rounds in December.

In non-televised undercard bouts, New York-native Arnold Gonzalez (9-0, 5 KOs) will take on Tracey McGruder (6-2, 4 KOs) in a six-round welterweight fight, plus Cincinnati’s Adrian Benton (6-0, 4 KOs) competes in a six-round super lightweight duel versus Mexico’s Jose Antonio Meza (8-6, 2 KOs), while Baltimore’s Cuttino Oliver (1-0, 1 KO) faces South Carolina’s Jahden Lewis (2-1, 1 KO) in a four-round super bantamweight attraction and Baltimore’s Mia Ellis (4-0, 3 KOs) steps in against Haiti’s Jaica Pavilus (2-1, 1 KO) for a six-round lightweight showdown.

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ABOUT DAVIS VS. ROMERO
Davis vs. Romero will see five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis defend his WBA Lightweight Title against unbeaten No. 1 ranked contender and mandatory challenger Rolando Romero on Saturday, May 28 live on SHOWTIME PPV from Barclays Center in Brooklyn headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features two division world champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara defending his WBA Middleweight Title against hard-hitting Gary “Spike” O’Sullivan in the co-main event. Plus, sensational young star Jesús “Mono” Ramos faces Luke Santamaría in a 10-round super welterweight showdown, while hard-hitting contender Eduardo Ramírez battles Puerto Rico’s Luis Meléndez in the 10-round super featherweight telecast opener.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #DavisRomero, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromotions and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions/.

After a successful career in MMA with organisations such as Bellator and BAMMA, racking up a highly commendable 5-2 record, new horizons beckon for the former Geordie Shore star Aaron Chalmers.

Having decided to switch codes from MMA to boxing and team up with Wasserman Boxing, the Newcastle fighter now has a fantastic platform to showcase his skills, as he makes his professional debut on Friday June 17, as part of a huge night of free-to-air action at the M&S bank Arena in Liverpool, live on Channel 5.

Chalmers starred on television screens in 2014 as he joined Geordie Shore cast, but has since committed himself to combat sports.

The 34-year-old made his MMA debut in 2017 and soon caught headlines in with his striking talent,
taking less than a minute to produce a stunning left-hand KO in only his second professional fight.

Since deciding to transition from the cage to the square circle, Chalmers has been working hard behind-the-scenes training alongside fellow Wasserman Boxing fighters Josh Kelly and Harlem Eubank under the guidance of coach and manager Adam Booth.

‘I feel like my debut has been a long time coming now and what better place to have it than in Liverpool, it’s always a cracking atmosphere there. I can’t wait to put on a show and get my boxing career rolling,” said Chalmers.

The proof of Chalmer’s appeal is apparent from his following on social media, where he boasts over 2 million followers who will be itching to see him make a successful debut at the M&S Bank Arena.
All involved with Wasserman Boxing are equally as excited to see him start his professional boxing career.

Kalle Sauerland, Head Of Global Boxing a Wasserman said: “We’re very excited to have the big-hitting Geordie Shore star on board. He’s been fine-tuning his skills in boxing around some of the best in the game.

“If he wants to go down this path then there’s no better environment to do that, and certainly no better platform than in Liverpool on June 17 to prove his potential and show what he has learnt under one of the best in the business, Adam Booth.”

Nathan Gorman (18-1, 12 KOs) returns under the bright lights to headline an action-packed night of free-to-air boxing on June 17 at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, featuring Aaron Chalmers on his professional debut, former Team GB fighter Chloe Watson, the undefeated Paddy Lacey, Mason ‘Nutty’ Cartwright and heavyweight giant ‘Magic’Matty Harris. Promoted by Wasserman Boxing live on Channel 5 in association with William Hill, Numan and Infinitum Entertainment.

To purchase tickets for this event, pleaseclick here.

Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez and Gennadiy ‘GGG’ Golovkin will meet in an epic trilogy clash on September 17. Canelo vs. GGG III will be live on DAZN Pay Per View in the U.S. and Canada and around the world on DAZN (excluding Mexico, Latin America, and Kazakhstan) and is presented by Matchroom, Canelo Promotions and GGG Promotions.
 
Alvarez dared to be great once again in his last outing but was edged out by WBA World Light-Heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol. Now the focus switched back to Super-Middleweight where he will defend his undisputed title against the Kazakh king, who campaigns at the weight for the first time in his storied career.
 
Alvarez and Golovkin have shared 24 thrilling rounds already in this hottest of rivalries and the pair will meet for a third time, five years after their first battle ended in a controversial draw and then the Mexican star edging out Golovkin via majority decision.
 
Both fights took place in the T-Mobile Arena, and while a venue for the trilogy bout will be revealed soon, what is in no doubt is that it will be the hottest ticket in sport when these two foes dance for the third and decisive time.
 
“I feel very happy and proud to be able to give the best fights and this fight won’t be an exception,” said Canelo.
 
“I hope to see you on September 17,” said Golovkin.
 
“Let’s push ahead without going backwards,” said Eddy Reynoso. “A Mexican never surrenders, let’s push forward.
 
“The Canelo vs. GGG trilogy is the biggest fight in boxing and I am delighted to get this made for September 17,” said Eddie Hearn. “These are two men that bitterly dislike each other and want to end this incredible series with a blistering KO.
 
“I truly believe this will be the most thrilling fight between these two great champions and it will be fireworks from the first bell to the last man standing.”
 
“What a few weeks we have had on DAZN – the biggest women’s fight of all time, an absolute barn burner in Las Vegas, and now, the highly anticipated trilogy fight between the pound for pound King Saul Canelo Alvarez and one of the biggest names in the sport Gennadiy ‘GGG’ Golovkin,” said Ed Breeze, EVP Rights, DAZN. “The last two fights between these two have been up there with the very best this century and we look forward to broadcasting it to fight fans live and worldwide on DAZN.”
 
Canelo vs. GGG III will be live on DAZN around on the world and on DAZN PPV in the U.S. and Canada. Excluded territories include Mexico, Latin America, and Kazakhstan. The blockbuster event is another mega addition to DAZN’s premium portfolio of live sports and original programming, including the world’s biggest leagues and competitions UEFA Champions League, UEFA Women’s Champions League, Bundesliga, LaLiga, Serie A, and J.League.
 
About Matchroom Boxing
Matchroom Boxing is the world’s leading boxing promotional outfit putting on major stadium and arena shows across the globe. Headed up by boxing supremo Eddie Hearn, Matchroom has been among the world leaders in major boxing promotion and production for over a quarter of a century since its launch in 1987. With an unrivalled stable of world-class fighters, Matchroom’s unique expertise in promotion, staging and television productions cements its position as the No.1 promoter in the sport.

(May 23, 2022) —WBO/IBF/Ring Magazine junior lightweight world champion Mikaela Mayer and WBC champion Alycia “The Bomb” Baumgardner have traded social media haymakers. Soon, the two pound-for-pound talents will throw down in a super fight that will establish the true queen of the 130-pound division.
 
Top Rank has secured the rights to the Mayer-Baumgardner title unification showdown, which will take place in late summer/early fall. Date, venue, and ticket information will be announced in the coming weeks.
 
“Mikaela Mayer’s prodigious talent is only matched by her tremendous ambition,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “She wants the biggest fights, and Alycia Baumgardner is a worthy champion. This is a huge event and one of the most anticipated matchups in women’s boxing.”
 
Mayer (17-0, 5 KOs) is a Los Angeles native who represented the U.S. at the 2016 Rio Olympics. She became WBO world champion in October 2020 with a one-sided decision over Ewa Brodnicka. Last November 5, she unified the WBO and IBF titles with a toe-to-toe barnburner against Maiva Hamadouche in the consensus Female Fight of the Year. The 10-round unanimous decision also earned Mayer the Ring Magazine belt.
 
Baumgardner (12-1, 7 KOs) burst onto the scene eight days after Mayer defeated Hamadouche. She traveled to Sheffield, England, and stunned British standout Terri Harper via fourth-round TKO to win the WBC title. She made her first title defense April 16 with a shutout decision over former unified world champion Edith Soledad Matthysse.

New York, NY (May 23, 2022)-Two fighters under the Split-T Management banner scored impressive stoppage victories on Saturday night.

In Las Vegas, 2021 United States Olympian Tiger Johnson stopped Agustin Kucharski in round three of their six-round welterweight bout.

In round one, Kucharski had blood around the right eye.

In round three, Johnson dropped Kucharski twice with the finisher being a right to the head. Kucharski’s corner threw in the towel at 54 seconds.

Johnson, 142.4 lbs of Cleveland, OH is4-0 with three knockouts. Kucharski, 143.2 lbs of Cordoba, ARG is 8-5-1.

Johnson had a highly decorated amateur career finishing with a record of 188-17, and saw him win a Gold Medal in the 2016 Youth World Championships; a Bronze Medal at the 2019 Pan Am Games; a 2019 Last Chance Qualifier Championship; Four 2017 Elite National Championships; a 2016 Elite National Championship; a 2015 Youth National Championship; and a 2014 National Junior Olympic Championship.

Johnson is promoted by Top Rank.

In Orlando, Florida, lightweight Joseph Adorno stopped Juan Santiago in the opening round of their eight-round lightweight bout.

Adorno of Allentown, Pennsylvania landed a six-punch combination that was followed up by a crunching left on the jaw that sent Santiago splashing on the canvas.

With the win, Adorno is now 15-1-2 with 13 knockouts.

Adorno is promoted by GH3 Promotions.

HAMZAH SHEERAZ WAS honoured by the Boxing Writers’ Club with the prestigious Young Boxer of the Year award this evening in London.

The 22-year-old achievements were acknowledged at the 69th annual dinner at the Savoy Hotel.

Middleweight Hamzah, 15-0 (11 KOs), is the current holder of the WBC International Silver title following his defeat of Jez Smith at Wembley in March, with him previously having won the WBO European title and defended on four occasions at super welterweight.

“I am delighted to see Hamzah following in the footsteps of Daniel Dubois in winning the Young Boxer of the Year award, voted for by the boxing writers,” said promoter Frank Warren.

“It is a coveted honour that has been won by many greats of the past and, if Hamzah fulfils his huge potential, he will rightly belong in such company.

“Hamzah is totally devoted to his craft and him taking himself off to the United States to improve speaks volumes for his dedication. I genuinely believe he is a future world champion at middleweight.”

The other young boxers shortlisted for the award were Adam Azim, Mark Chamberlain, Zak Chelli, John Docherty, Johnny Fisher, Brad Foster, Mark Jeffers, Dennis McCann, Sam Noakes, Hopey Price, Brad Rea and Ellie Scotney.

Atlanta, GA (May 23, 2022) — Jeter Promotions made a strong debut in Atlanta with a terrific nine-bout card in front of a boisterous standing room only crowd at Buckhead Fight Club.

In the main event, Morgan Grigge remained undefeated with a four-round majority decision over Luis Pena. It was a competitive fight that saw Grigge win by scores of 39-37 twice and 38-38.

Jamison Shaw (2-0-1) ran through Marquez Greer in a junior middleweight bout by scoring a Technical Knockout at 1:52 of round one.

Marco Quinones (2-0) stopped Joe Gibson in round one of their junior welterweight bout. The time was 2:40.

Keedric White (2-0_ blew out Ginno Montoya in the opening round of a lightweight contest. The time was 2:35.

Dante Williams (2-0) dropped Justin Richwine twice en-route to a second round stoppage in a heavyweight bout. The time of the stoppage was 2:47.

Joshua Flanagan made a successful pro debut with a second round stoppage over Devante Stevenson in a lightweight bout. Flanagan dropped Stevenson twice before the fight was stopped at 2:43.

In a battle of pro debuting heavyweights, Billy Williams won a four-round unanimous decision over Jeremiah Cotton. Williams dropped Cotton in round two. Williams won by scores of 40-35 twice and 39-36.

In a close fight, Nicky Vittone had to recover from a first round knockdown to win a unanimous decision over Raymond Chacon in a super lightweight bout. The close fight saw Vittone win by scores of 58-55 and 57-56 twice.

Steve Moore dropped Matthew Knauss three times, but Knauss was able to last the distance in their super lightweight contest that saw Moore win by scores of 40-33 twice and 39-34.

Jeter Promotions looks to return to Atlanta later this summer.

Jeter Promotions is made up by former middleweight contender Tony Jeter and his wife Christen. The matchmaker for the show was Xavier Tolliver.

CLEVELAND, OH (May 23, 2022) – This past Saturday, former super-flyweight world title challenger Antonio Nieves (20-3,1, 11 KOs), got his career back on track with a stunning unanimous decision victory over previously unbeaten Filipino prospect, Judy Flores (10-1, 6 KOs). The scheduled 8-round bantamweight bout took place at the Civic Center in Cleveland Heights, Ohio.

From the opening bell Nieves took control as he used his superior boxing skills, inside game, and fast hands to take the lead on the score cards. He continued to pound the body and slowly broke Flores down. In round six, Nieves sent Flores to the canvas with left hook to the body. Flores survived and made it to the final bell. Scorecards read 80-71 and 80-72 twice all in favor for Nieves.

“I had to box smart and work my way inside to land some big shots,” stated Nieves “I had to pressure him down for most of the fight and was able to slowly break him down. Considering my two-year year lay-off, and this was only scheduled for an eight rounder, I wasn’t able to stop him. I’m pleased with my performance and happy to shake off the ring rust. I’m hoping to land a big fight before the summer ends. I’m coming back for a top spot in the division. I’m right back in the gym this week.”

“I’m calling all the major sanctioning bodies this morning to lobby for a top position within their ratings,” said manager Tim VanNewhouse. “Antonio is deserving of another journey within the world rankings and bigger opportunities in the sport.”

PHILADELPHIA, PA /ORANGE, CA (May 23, 2022) – Junior welterweight
Michael Dutchover (16-2, 10 KOs) advanced to the semifinal round in The Last Chance Tournament with an eight-round split-decision victory over veteran Clarence Booth (21-5, 13 KOs) this past Friday night in Plant City, Florida.

Dutchover of Midland, Texas, who is promoted by Banner Promotions and
Thompson Boxing, feels this victory is the first step toward getting back in the world title hunt.

Dutchover looked very solid throughout the contest as he was able to establish and score with power shots, and despite the cards ending in a split decision, most observers of the fight who were in attendance at The Pro Box Event Center and watching on Pro Box TV, thought that Dutchover won the bout handily. Scorecards read 78-74 and 77-75 for Dutchover and 77-75 for Booth.

“This fight was very important to me to get back in the winning column,” said Dutchover. “We did our job. We are back. Right after I got my hand raised, I was ready to get back in there. I am ready to fight Antonio Moran. I am very confident that I can win this tournament and turn my career around. This is going to be a big year for me.”

“I am very proud of Michael. I thought Michael performed great on Friday night,” said Artie Pelullo, President of Banner Promotions. “He showed a lot of character by the way he fought in the opening round of the tournament. He fought with a lot of confidence, and I feel he will even better for his next fight,”

“It was a very gritty performance from Michael and he showed why he belongs in this tournament with this victory,” said Alex Camponovo, General Manager for Thompson Boxing. “His preparation going into this bout was excellent and we are excited for his next challenge against Moran, a fight we believe he can win.”

VICTORVILLE, Calif. (May 23, 2022) – Decorated American boxer Jesikah Guerra has announced that she is leaving the amateurs, in which she is a 10-time national champion, to join the professional ranks.

The 19-year-old welterweight, fighting out of Victorville, CA, trains at Elite Boxing under the guidance of her coach, Michael Love, who is also serving as her manager. She is a promotional free agent with growing interest in signing her.

Highlighting her USA Boxing career was her gold medal performance at the 2021 Junior Pan American Games.

“I really feel like it’s the right time to turn pro because women’s boxing is taking off,” Guerra explained why she chose now to go pro. “It’s great to see female fighters getting the recognition they deserve. I want to be part of that change and I have done everything I wanted to in USA Boxing for the past 11 years, including the last five on its Performance Team, and it’s time to move on.

“I have a lot of appreciation for my amateur career as it has prepared me in many ways to be a successful pro. A lot of top athletes in boxing have a strong amateur resume and I think it’s important to your success later on. What I accomplished with USA Boxing by winning 10 national titles something people only dream of and I appreciate those accomplishments. All of that came with a lot of sacrifices. While all my friends were doing normal things, I was training; when they were hanging out, I was training. I put my boxing first above all my relationships and it showed in my performance.”

Love _ Guerra.jpg
Michael Love & Jesikah Guerra

“Women’s boxing is starting to take off and Jesikah has already been deep in the environment of professional boxing,” Love added. “She has been in camp with both Ceclia Braekhus twice for her fights with Jessica McCaskill, and she recently had the honor of working with Bellator/UFC Champion Cris Cyborg. With Jesikah winning the silver (2020) and gold medals (2021) in the Pan Am Games, along with being a 10-time USA national champion, we feel it’s time to take off the headgear and get to work.

“We have had a lot of discussions about the differences between the amateurs and pros. We are thankful for all USA Boxing has provided for us. We just feel like it’s time to move on to bigger and better things. We already have offers on the table from some promoters, but we are being patient through the process. Jesikah’s accolades speak for themselves.”

Jessica started boxing training when she was only 6 years old, loving the sport from the beginning, and she’s proud to be considered a solid all-around boxer capable of boxing on the outside or power punching. She takes the best from the best, admiring Saul “Canelo” Alvarez, particularly his head movement, power, and overall ring generalship.

“My short-term goal in the pros is to take it one fight at a time and then be world champion,” Guerra said. “I also want to continue advancing women’s boxing by giving exciting, entertaining fight that everyone will enjoy watching.”

“As a boxer,” Love commented, “she has the power and determination to be the best as proven by her amateur accomplishments. I’ve never met a person so passionate about winning. She is solid in and outside the ring. She is 100-percent focused on boxing and puts everything second. You will only find Jesikah in three places – the gym, fitness center or home.

“Jess is the most decorated 147-154 pounder to come out of USA Boxing in the lasts 5-7 years. Just getting in the ring to get a feel for the pro style is what she needs before challenging for a world title. We are interested in quickly positioning for fighters like McCaskill. We feel Jess can be the stronger, more experienced fighter in her weight class. We want to claim what belongs to us!”

She isn’t California dreaming; Jesikah Guerra is on a mission.

KISSIMMEE, Florida (May 23, 2022): Tickets for the 12-round battle between WBO Junior Flyweight World Champion Jonathan “La Bomba” Gonzalez (25-3-1, 14 KOs) and Filipino contender Mark Anthony “Baby Boy” Barriga (11-1, 2 KOs) are now on sale.

The event, which is promoted by ProBox Promotions in association with Tuto Zabala Jr.’s All Star Boxing, Inc., will take place on Friday, June 24 at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida and will be streamed globally on ProBox TV.

Tickets for Gonzalez vs. Barriga are priced at $50 and $100. Tickets are available for purchase at www.Ticketmaster.com or by clicking here

Undercard information for the event will be announced shortly.

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PHILADELPHIA (May 23, 2020)–James Bernadin took an eight-round unanimous Decision over Kenny Robles to capture the NBA Americas Junior Welterweight title in the featured bout at The 2300 Arena.

The exciting four-bout card was promoted by King’s Promotions.

Bernadin tried to impose his will by trying to land hard shots. Robles was able to use movement and settle down to land effective combinations. Despite eating some combination punching, Bernadin was able to stalk and land good right hands. In the final minute of the fight, Bernadin landed a big left that hurt Robles. Bernadin opened up a furious barrage of punches in an effort to stop Robles in the final frame, but Robles was able to hang on and get to the final bell.

Bernadin of Lancaster, PA won by scores of 79-73 twice and 78-74 to raise his undefeated mark to 7-0-1. Robles of Staten Island, NY is 9-2.

In the co-feature, Victor Padilla stopped Jesus Perez in round three of their scheduled eight-round lightweight contest.

It looked like it would be a real short evening as he dropped Perez in round one with a short hook. Padilla did end things in round three, when he flicked out a short left hand that put Perez down and the fight was stopped.

Padilla of Philadelphia is 10-0 with nine knockouts. Perez of Culiacan, Mexico is 13-14-1.

Thanjhae Teasley remined undefeated with a four-round majority decision over Jetter Burgos in a welterweight clash.

It was a very competitive match up until Teasley was able to come on strong in the final minute of the fight to pull out the victory by scores of 39-37 twice and 38-38.

Teasley of Bethlehem, PA is 3-0, Burgos of Bronx, NY is 1-1.

James Martin pounded out a four-round unanimous decision over Lukasz Barabasz in a junior middleweight fight.

Martin of Philadelphia won by tallies of 40-36 twice and 39-37 and is now 8-3. Barabasz of Mikolow, Poland is 1-4.

Photos by Darryl Cobb Jr.

Orlando, FL (May 22, 2022) – Connor “The Kid” Coyle (16-0, 7 KO’s) captured the NABA middleweight title after winning a spirited split decision against Atlanta, GA’s Antonio Todd (13-6, 7 KO’s) Saturday evening at the Caribe Royale in Orlando, FL.

Broadcast live on the Bally Sports Network, Coyle controlled the early rounds by outworking Todd. Coyle found a home for crisp right hands and left hooks but Todd displayed a solid chin.

Todd, who was coming off a career best victory against top 10 rated Hugo Centeno in January, provided a tough test for Coyle and had his moments during this entertaining ten round contest. Fighting out of the Philly Shell defensive style, Todd worked behind a solid jab and his movement created challenges for Coyle.

In the tenth round, Todd buzzed Coyle with a good shot and looked for the knockout but Coyle recovered and battled back. After the final bell, the crowd provided a round of applause for both fighters.

Judge Alexander Levin’s scorecard of 96-94 for Todd was overruled by tallies of 97-93 and 96-94 in favor of Coyle.

“Todd was an awkward fighter but that’s what we were expecting,” said Coyle, who hails from Derry, Ireland and fights out of Pinellas Park, FL. “This fight was a great experience against an opponent with a tricky style. He’d give a lot of good fighters trouble with his movement and ring smarts. With that said, I controlled the early rounds and pressed the fight as much as I could. I thought for sure we won the fight seven rounds to three or maybe 6-4 so the (scorecard for Todd) really surprised me.”

Coyle’s promoter, Jody Caliguire of Firefist Boxing Promotions, was proud of his fighter for earning the hard-fought victory.

“Winning the NABA title and earning a ranking in the top 10 is a big move for his career. Connor’s now 16-0 and has a great team behind him. We’re looking forward to bigger opportunities in the near future.”

Fans can follow Coyle on Instagram @Connor_the_kid_coyle. For more information on Fire Fist Boxing Promotions, visit Firefistboxing.net or Facebook.com/firefistboxing.