NEW YORK (May 9, 2022) — On the eve of the Puerto Rican Day Parade in New York City, the island nation’s brightest stars are coming to throw down. Edgar “The Chosen One” Berlanga, the flashy super middleweight knockout artist, will defend his NABO belt in the 10-round main event against two-time world title challenger Alexis Angulo.

In the eight-round junior middleweight co-feature, Xander Zayas, the fistic prodigy from San Juan, steps up in class against Uzbekistan-born veteran Ravshan Hudaynazarov.

Berlanga-Angulo and Zayas-Hudaynazarov will be broadcast LIVE on ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT.

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets starting at $66 go on sale Wednesday, May 11 at 12 p.m. ET, and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com and MSG.com.

“Boxing events at Madison Square Garden on the eve of the Puerto Rican Day Parade are always special, and we have sensational young talents in Edgar Berlanga and Xander Zayas topping the bill,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “They are each stepping up in class, and I expect them to perform in a big way in front of a raucous, sold-out arena.”

Berlanga (19-0, 16 KOs), at 24 years old, is already one of the biggest ticket-sellers in New York City. In March, a sold-out crowd of 5,158 packed the Hulu Theater for his step-up fight against Steve Rolls, which he won by unanimous decision. Berlanga burst onto the scene with 16 consecutive first-round knockouts to start his career, a ferocious run that captured the imagination of fight fans. The streak ended in April 2021, although Berlanga sent Demond Nicholson to the canvas four times in eight rounds. He survived a gut check that October, overcoming a torn biceps and a trip to the canvas to defeat Marcelo Esteban Coceres. Berlanga is currently the WBO No. 7-ranked super middleweight contender and can edge closer to a world title shot with a victory over Angulo.

Berlanga said, “I’m so pumped to be headlining my second main event at the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden. Get ready for another sold-out crowd! This one will be special because this will be my first main event during the festivities of the Puerto Rican Day Parade weekend, just like my idols Felix ‘Tito’ Trinidad and Miguel Cotto did. I’m following in the footsteps of greatness, but also continuing the legacy of bringing my people together on a beautiful weekend.

“For this fight, we decided to do the training camp on my Island, and it has been a great decision. It has been a great training camp in Puerto Rico. At the beginning of training camp, I met with ‘Tito’ Trinidad, and he gave me some very encouraging and motivating advice. He is my hero! I’ve been working very hard and I can’t wait to fight on June 11 to show what I’m made off. I will raise the Puerto Rican flag up high and represent for all my Boricuas around the world.” 

Angulo (27-2, 23 KOs), from Patia, Colombia, received his first crack at the brass ring when he challenged Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez for the WBO super middleweight title in June 2018. He lost a unanimous decision to Ramirez, bouncing back with a major upset over then-unbeaten prospect Anthony Sims Jr. in January 2020. Less than seven months after the Sims triumph, he fought David Benavidez for the IBF super middleweight crown, falling via 10^th-round TKO. In his lone outing of 2021, Angulo knocked out Carlos Galvan in five rounds. He hopes to upset the apple cart once against Berlanga.

Angulo said, “I look forward to getting back in action at the legendary Madison Square Garden and putting on a great show for all boxing fans, the Colombian fans, Puerto Rican fans, and the Latino community that will show out and support. I have proven to be a skilled, experienced, gritty, and valiant fighter. I intend to bring the same into the ring on June 11 against Edgar Berlanga.”

Zayas (13-0, 9 KOs) has been on the fast track since signing with Top Rank at 16 years old. From first-round knockouts in his first two pro fights in 2019, to a spotless 6-0 run in 2021, Zayas has lived up to the billing. This will be his third consecutive fight under the Madison Square Garden lights, less than three months removed from a one-sided eight-round decision over Quincy “Chico” LaVallais. Hudaynazarov (19-5, 14 KOs) has only been stopped twice in a 14-year professional career and has won two of his last three bouts.

Zayas said, “For me, fighting at Madison Square Garden is always a great opportunity. It fills me with emotion because the fans always bring very positive and motivating energy. This coming June 11, I know it will not be the exception, as this will be my first fight on the weekend of the Puerto Rican Day Parade. I assure you that this will be the first of many. I want to continue bringing glory to Puerto Rico and Madison Square Garden, and I will continue to work hard to write my name in the history books as Cotto and Trinidad did.”

The undercard — streaming live and exclusively on ESPN+ — features the following Puerto Rican standouts in separate bouts:

Henry Lebron (15-0, 10 KOs), 8 rounds, junior lightweight — Lebron, from Aguadilla, stood out on the Berlanga-Rolls card with a seventh-round TKO over the usually durable Josec Ruiz. Before turning pro, he won Puerto Rican amateur national titles in 2015 and 2016.

Carlos Caraballo (15-1, 14 KOs), 8 rounds, junior featherweight — Co-promoted by Miguel Cotto, the native of Guayanilla survived a gut check versus Luis Fernando Saavedra on March 26, edging a majority decision. Caraballo won his first 14 pro bouts by stoppage before a close unanimous decision loss to Jonas Sultan last October temporarily blunted his momentum.

Josue Vargas (20-2, 9 KOs),8 rounds junior welterweight — Born in Isabela and raised in the Bronx, Vargas returns to the Hulu Theater, site of his first-round knockout loss to Jose Zepeda last October. Vargas regrouped to edge Argentina’s Nicolas Pablo Demario by unanimous decision in March.

Armani Almestica (5-0, 5 KOs), 6 rounds, lightweight — Born to Puerto Rican parents and raised in Orlando, Florida, Almestica broke through on the Berlanga-Rolls card with a third-round stoppage over Luis Valentin Portalatin. The all-action Almestica had a 117-7 amateur record and was on the Puerto Rican national team. He elected to turn pro after the Tokyo Olympics was postponed.

Orlando Gonzalez (17-1, 10 KOs), 8 rounds, featherweight — It is an evening of redemption for Gonzalez, who is coming off a 10-round decision loss to Robeisy Ramirez on the Tyson Fury-Deontay Wilder III undercard. The Aguadilla native spent much of his early career fighting in Puerto Rico and will make his Madison Square Garden debut June 11.

Omar Rosario (6-0, 2 KOs), 6 rounds, junior welterweight —A six-time Puerto Rican amateur national champion from Caguas, the 24-year-old fights for the first time since January’s decision win over Raekwon Butler.

Frevian Gonzalez (4-1, 1 KO), 6 rounds, junior lightweight — A stablemate of Puerto Rican two-weight world champion Jose Pedraza, the Cidra native looks to bounce back from last June’s decision defeat to Bryan Lua.

Christina Cruz (2-0), 4 rounds, flyweight – Cruz, an eight-time U.S. national amateur champion, turned pro last summer. Born to Puerto Rican parents, Cruz was raised in the Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood of Manhattan.

Queens, New York (May 9, 2022) – With the opening bell, and the first punch thrown, professional boxing officially made its emphatic debut at Carnesecca Arena at St. John’s University Saturday night at “Borough Boxing.”

The main event saw DANNY “EL GALLO” GONZALEZ (now 20-4-1 7KO’s) go to war with PAULO GALDINO (now 12-5 8KO’s) in the welterweight main event. Gonzalez, stepped on the gas early, dropping Galdino in the first round after a flurry of punches had Galdino on unsteady legs. Gonzalez looked to close the show, but Galdino was able to survive the round. Thrilling action continued the entire bout as the southpaw Galdino began putting punches together. Gonzalez would pick his spots with exciting bursts to return the favor, and both warriors continued to trade at will to the delight of the fans in a back & forth memorable battle that saw impressive and brutal body work by both fighters. At the final bell the scorecard reflected the back-and-forth action in the ring. Galdino was given a razor thin 8 rd. split decision upsetting Gonzalez in his backyard.

Result: Galdino wins via split decision (76-75 Gonzalez, 77-74 Galdino, 76-75 Galdino)

In the co-feature, MAUREEN “THE REAL MILLION DOLLAR BABY” SHEA (now 30-2-1 13KO’s) proved she is a force to be reckoned with at super bantamweight as she put on a show with fellow warrior CALISTA “CALI” SILGADO (now 19-14-1 13KO’s). Silgado showed remarkable resolve, willingly trading punches and crisp body shots with the heavy-handed Shea. However, it would be Shea’s superior boxing ability that would prove the difference in the fight. Shea won the fight via an impressive unanimous decision and is poised to make a title run at 118-122 lbs.

Result: Shea wins via unanimous decision (79-73, 79-73, 77-75).

The undercard similarly thrilled fans. Bronx based, “The Nigerian Nightmare” AFUNWA KING (now 4-1 1KO) won the battle of the boroughs besting Brooklyn born and raised, KAMRON HUMPHREY (now 3-1 2KO’s). King took the fight to Humphrey, scoring a knockdown in the second round. King controlled the action for much of the fight, keeping Humphrey on his heels.

Result: King wins via unanimous decision.

Glendale, Queens’ MAT “THE FUTURE” CASTRO (now 3-0 2KO’s) excited his hometown fans, dropping the game ANGELO THOMPSON (now 0-3) in the second round of their 4-round super welterweight fight. Thompson would gut it out, get back to his feet and kept Castro on his toes, but it would not be enough as Castro’s firepower and boxing skills made the difference.

Result: Castro wins via unanimous decision. (39-36, 39-36, 38-37)

In the opening bout of the night, NYPD Officer, EMMANUEL ETIENNE (now 2-0 1KO) defeated Elizabeth, New Jersey’s TUNDE FATIREGUN (now 0-2). The first two rounds had great action as both fighters mixed it up to the body the head. In the third, a tired Fatiregun would be deducted a point on two separate occasions for pressing down on the head of, and holding Etienne. Finally, the referee called the fight off for the same reason.

Result: Etienne wins by DQ in the fourth round.

“What an excellent night of boxing for the first ever show in Carnesecca Arena history,” said CEO of Star Boxing, JOE DEGUARDIA. “The fights emulated the grit and determination of the history and quality of Borough Boxing. Maureen Shea bit down against a tough opponent and got the job done. Paulo Galdino and Danny Gonzalez put on a thrilling fight for the fans, as did all combatants. Thank you to everyone involved in the show and the fans who came out to support their fighters and the show. We look forward to returning to St. John’s University and will announce our future events schedule soon.”

Denis Radovan enjoyed a successful homecoming with a second round TKO win over the experienced Rafael Bejaran last night in front of frenetic fans at the Sartory Saal in Cologne, Germany. The atmosphere was electric for Radovan’s first fight in his hometown, and the unbeaten middleweight surely delivered as he dropped his opponent three times in the second, forcing Bejaran’s corner to throw in the towel. It was the third successful defense of the IBF European middleweight title for Radovan.

At the one minute mark of the second round, Radovan connected with a picture perfect left hook to the liver to floor Bejaran for the first time. The tough challenger got back to his feet, but never fully recovered and went down twice more in a span of 30 seconds before the towel came in.

“Respect to Rafael Bejaran. He was in great shape and gave me something to think about in the first round. He knew what he was doing,“ said Radovan. “But I saw the openings and I took advantage of them. I’m proud to have defended my title for the third time in front of my hometown fans and I’m excited about the future.“ When asked if he had a dream opponent, Radovan smiled and said: “It doesn’t matter who I fight. I want to become world champion and that’s what I live and breathe for.“

Former longtime world champion Christina Hammer enjoyed an equally successful night at the Sartory Saal. Germany’s most successful active female fighter thoroughly dominated Luiza Davydova en route to an eight-round unanimous decision win. The two fighters engaged in a toe-to-toe battle for most of the rounds, but it was Hammer who landed the telling punches on her unorthodox opponent. The decision was merely a formality, as all three judges scored each and every round for the former champ – “Hammer-Time“ in Cologne!

After the fight, Hammer was grateful for the amazing atmosphere at the arena: “I want to thank everyone who came out to watch the fights tonight. It’s amazing to be fighting in front of all of you again,“ Hammer said. “There was definitely some ring rust for tonight, but I feel that I’m on the right path to get back to the top. I want to become world champion and win my titles back as soon as possible.“

Promoter Kalle Sauerland was very satisfied with the Fight Night and the performance of all the Wasserman athletes – and managed to get a big laugh from a room full of journalists at the post-fight presser: ”I gotta tell you, I was one meter away from the ring and Denis’ liver hook still hurts me. All jokes aside, that was a picture perfect punch by Denis. Both him and Christina delivered today and both deserve a chance to become world champion. I’m confident that both will get that chance this year.“

At the age of just 20, Sophie Alisch is regarded by many as one of the best prospects in boxing. In Cologne, she celebrated her eight win in as many professional fights as she decisioned tough Spaniard Eva Cantos over six rounds. Light heavyweight hopeful Leon Bunn made quick work of late replacement Islam Teffahi, stopping him with body shots in the second round. Highly talented Dane Oliver Zaren, a protégé of boxing legend Mikkel Kessler, dominated Novak Radulovic over six rounds en route to a unanimous decision win.

Las Vegas – UFC^® today announced that former UFC light heavyweight and heavyweight champion Daniel Cormier will be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame’s ‘Modern Wing’ as a member of the Class of 2022. The 2022 UFC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, presented by Toyo Tires^®, will take place on Thursday, June 30, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Tickets can be purchased via AXS. The event will be streamed live and exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS^® starting at 7 p.m. PT.

“Daniel Cormier is one of the most badass competitors of all time,” said UFC President Dana White. “DC faced the greatest athletes in the world on every level of wrestling and MMA. He is also the ultimate professional. As an active fighter, he always took time for the media, which led him to become one of the best TV analysts in all of sports. DC is one of the greatest ambassadors UFC has ever had, and it’s going to be an honor to induct him into the UFC Hall of Fame this summer.”

Cormier will enter the UFC Hall of Fame as a member of the Modern Wing, joining others in this distinguished category, including Forrest Griffin (2013), BJ Penn (2015), Urijah Faber (2017), Ronda Rousey (2018), Michael Bisping (2019), Rashad Evans (2019), Georges St-Pierre (2020) and Khabib Nurmagomedov (2022). The “Modern Era” category includes athletes who turned pro on or after November 17, 2000 (when the first UFC event under the unified rules of MMA was held), are a minimum age of 35 or who have been retired for one year or more.

A veteran of 26 fights during his 11-year professional MMA career, Cormier compiled a record of 22-3, 1 NC (18-3, 1 NC UFC / Strikeforce), notching victories over former UFC heavyweight champions Stipe Miocic, Frank Mir, and Josh Barnett, as well as former UFC middleweight champion Anderson Silva, UFC^Ò 17: REDEMPTION middleweight tournament and former Strikeforce light heavyweight champion Dan Henderson, and former Cage Warriors super heavyweight champion Antonio “Bigfoot” Silva. He also secured notable wins over Alexander Gustafsson, Anthony Johnson, and Derrick Lewis.

Cormier made his professional MMA debut during STRIKEFORCE CHALLENGERS: KENNEDY vs. CUMMINGS on September 25, 2009, defeating Gary Frazier via TKO (punches) in the second round. Cormier would then defeat his next 10 opponents, becoming the King of the Cage heavyweight champion and winning the 2012 Strikeforce Heavyweight Grand Prix before joining UFC.

Cormier made his UFC debut against Frank Mir during UFC on FOX: HENDERSON vs. MELENDEZ on April 20, 2013. Cormier defeated Mir via unanimous decision and followed with victories over Roy Nelson, Patrick Cummins, and Dan Henderson, to earn his first shot at the UFC light heavyweight title against UFC Hall of Famer Jon Jones at UFC 182.

UFC^Ò 182: JONES vs. CORMIER took place on January 3, 2015, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and served as the first UFC main event of Cormier’s career. Cormier would lose his first title shot to Jones via unanimous decision, but the title would be vacated three days later, as it was revealed that Jones failed his pre-fight drug test.

Cormier was granted his second opportunity to claim his first UFC championship when he faced Anthony Johnson for the vacant UFC light heavyweight title at UFC^Ò 187: JOHNSON vs. CORMIER. In that event, which took place on May 23, 2015, at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Cormier dominated the first two rounds before submitting Johnson via rear-naked choke in the third to capture his first UFC title.

Cormier would then win four of his next five fights over three years, defending the light heavyweight title three times in the process. Cormier returned to the heavyweight division to face champion Stipe Miocic in the main event of UFC^Ò 226: MIOCIC vs. CORMIER, which took place on July 7, 2018, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

After grappling with Miocic across the Octagon, Cormier connected with a short right hand with 27 seconds remaining in the first round to defeat Miocic via TKO. The win etched his name into the record books as he became only the second athlete in UFC history to hold two divisional titles simultaneously.

Cormier then defended the UFC heavyweight title four months later by defeating Derrick Lewis vis rear-naked choke submission in the main event of UFC^Ò 230: CORMIER vs. LEWIS, on November 3, 2018, at Madison Square Garden.

Following his UFC heavyweight title defense, Cormier vacated the UFC light heavyweight championship and focused solely on defending the heavyweight title. He faced Miocic two more times in the main events of UFC^Ò 241: CORMIER vs. MIOCIC 2 and UFC^Ò 252: MIOCIC vs. CORMIER 3, losing both, before officially retiring from competition.

During his Hall of Fame career, Cormier trained under Javier Mendez at American Kickboxing Academy (AKA) in San Jose, Calif. He is one of several former UFC champions to train at AKA under Mendez.

Cormier enters the UFC Hall of Fame with an impressive resume that includes:

• One of only four simultaneous two-division champions in UFC history (Light Heavyweight & Heavyweight)

• Most significant strikes head landed in a UFC heavyweight fight (UFC 241 vs. Miocic) – 162

• Most significant strikes landed in a UFC heavyweight fight (UFC 241 vs. Miocic) – 181

• Second-most significant head strikes landed in a UFC light heavyweight fight (UFC 192 vs. Gustafsson) – (111)

• Third-most title fight wins in UFC light heavyweight history – (4)

• Third-highest significant striking accuracy in UFC heavyweight history – (61.6%)

• Third-most significant strikes landed in a UFC light heavyweight fight (UFC 192 vs. Gustafsson) –140

• Tied for third-most significant clinch strikes landed in a UFC light heavyweight fight (UFC 192 vs. Gustafsson) – (48)

• Tied for 10^th-most title fight victories in UFC history – (6)

A native of Lafayette, Louisiana, Cormier began wrestling at Northside High School, capturing three consecutive (1995-97) Louisiana State Division 1 wrestling titles while also earning All-State honors each year. Cormier finished his high school career with a record of 101-9. Following high school, Cormier began his college wrestling career at Colby Community College (Kansas), securing a perfect 61-0 record en route to becoming a two-time Junior College National Champion (1998-99) in the 197 lbs. division. In 2000, Cormier transferred to Oklahoma State University, posting a 53-10 record and earning All-American honors as a senior in 2001. In 2009, he was inducted into the National Junior College Athletic Association Hall of Fame and the Louisiana High School Athletic Association in 2021.

Following his collegiate career, Cormier competed in freestyle wrestling, winning six consecutive gold medals (2003-08) during the USA Senior National Wrestling Championships. He also competed internationally, capturing the gold medal in 2002 and 2003 during the Pan American Championships, as well as the gold medal at the Pan American Games in 2003. Cormier was also as a member of the US Olympic Wrestling team for the 2004 and 2008 Summer Games.

Outside the Octagon, Cormier has become an accomplished combat sports analyst with ESPN and serves as a commentator during UFC events. He also serves as the co-host of DC & RC with NFL Super Bowl champion Ryan Clark, and hosts his own digital series, “The DC Check-In” on YouTube. Earlier this year, he also served as a wrestling analyst for ESPN during the 2022 NCAA Wrestling Championships.

Cormier also serves as the full-time head coach of the Gilroy High School wrestling team, while also coaching multiple youth teams at the Daniel Cormier Wrestling Academy. Cormier resides in Gilroy, California, with his wife, Salina, and three children.

To view Cormier’s UFC FIGHT PASS collection please visit: https://ufcfightpass.com/playlist/10134.

To see a complete list of UFC athletes and fights enshrined in the UFC Hall of Fame, as well as details regarding the UFC Hall of Fame format, please visit UFC.com/HOF. For additional information, please visit UFC.com.

LAS VEGAS –Canelo Alvarez said he was facing a challenge. He wasn’t kidding. He just didn’t know just how much of a challenge it would be.

Turns out, Dmitry Bivol was a bigger challenger than even Canelo, boxing’s biggest star.

Bivol took him down Saturday, upsetting Mexico’s greatest current champion on a night when his nation celebrated Cinco de Mayo.

It was a stunner, historic, but not the kind of history Canelo has said he is pursuing. Bivol was supposed to be a step in his path to all-time recognition. But that journey was interrupted.

The bigger Bivol (20-0, 11 KOs), still the World Boxing Association’s light-heavyweight champion, employed all of his measurable advantages and many that can’t be measured, scoring a unanimous decision – 115-113 on all three cards – over the favored Canelo (57-2-2, 39).

“I prove today that I’m the best,’’ Bivol said to his promoter and the stunned crowd at T-Mobile Arena after the pay-per-view/DAZN bout. “Thank you, Eddie Hearn, Sorry, I break your plans for Gennadiy Golovkin, maybe.’’

On the Canelo blueprint, the bout versus Bivol was a good payday en route to a third fight against Golovkin.

A third bout in a contentious middleweight rivalry was seen as a way for Canelo to have the final say-so. It would allow him to move on from the debate about GGG, who had a draw and a decision loss to Canelo

But maybe Canelo moved a little but too fast and too far up the scale. He unified the super-middleweight title. Light heavyweight was next. But Bivol was there, to remind him that there’s a reason for weight classes.

Canelo, who had promised victory, offered no excuses.

“I lost tonight and he won,’’ Canelo said.

He also said he wanted a rematch. He was asked whether he would exercise the rematch clause in his contract with Bivol

“Si,’’ he said to the Mexican crowd.

Canelo has proven he learns from defeat. He learned a lot after his one-sided loss to Floyd Mayweather Jr. After this one – only his second defeat, he faced many more adjustments against a skilled, poised Bivol. The Russian doesn’t get rattled.

No Russian anthem was played, no Russian flag was waved, when Bivol made his entrance. The World Boxing Association ruled against both weeks before the fight in response to Russia’s invasion of the Ukraine.

Initially, the WBA’s ruling was called cosmetic. It’s a boxing acronym after all. It’s more about sanctioning fees than ethics. On fight night, however, the ban felt like the proper move. It fit the time. And the man.

Bivol, the WBA’s champion, has family in Saint Petersburg. He has never taken a position on his home country’s attack on a neighboring country. Neutrality has been hard to maintain. But he has remained quiet about his homeland. He delivers punches. Not opinions.

The Russian flag and anthem might have put further pressure on Bivol in an arena already awash in Mexican flags and symbols. It was Cinco de Mayo, a party and a celebration of Mexican pride. Bivol was the pinata at a roaring fiesta.

But the designated pinata contained surprises. Bivol was more than just a party favor. He had some weapons of his own.

In an early surprise, Canelo started faster than expected. He’s known for a measured pace in the first few rounds. Against Bivol, however, he didn’t hesitate.

The opening bell still echoed through the jammed area when he began to move forward, ever forward. Perhaps, he was buoyed by the crowd, his crowd. Perhaps, he already knew that Bivol couldn’t hurt him. Perhaps, Canelo was anxious to get the job done and join the party.

Whatever the reason, the Canelo attack got underway without hesitation. The thud from his lethal body punches could be heard in the upper-reaches of T-Mobile. The real surprise was coming from Bivol, who over the first four rounds would not give an inch.

Canelo backed up and into the ropes repeatedly. But Bivol responded, coming back behind his long jab. Midway in the third round, the Russian appeared to land a left solid enough to get Canelo’s attention.

In the fourth and again in the fifth, Canelo began to show signs of fatigue. He breathed heavily through an open mouth. The momentum – slowly, surely and inevitably – had begun to switch. It belonged to Bivol.

In the end, so did the victory and the title.

Restless crowd boos Montana Love decision over Gabriel Gollaz

It was an awkward fight between a lefthander, Montana Love, and an orthodox Gabriel Gollaz. A couple of early knockdowns were the result.

In the first round, Love,(18-0-1, 9 KOs) of Cleveland, landed a glancing blow that knocked Gollaz off balance. Then, he appeared to slip. Referee Tony Weeks ruled it a knockdown.

In the second, Gollaz (25-3-1 15 KOs) , of Mexico, threw a quick counter left. It, too, appeared to be a glancing blow off the top of Love’s. But it was enough for Love to lose his balance. He touched the canvas. It was a knockdown. He got up , looking almost embarrassed.

For the next several rounds, neither fighter knew what to do. It left the crowd unhappy. Restless fans knew what to do. There was no love for Montana. None for Gollaz either. Fans jeered, whistled and booed. Love came into the ring to a rapper who carried his pet dog. Even the dog must have whined.

In the end, Love won a unanimous decision. The crow cheered. But it was happy only because it was over.

The only good news was that the main event, Canelo Alvarez-Dmitry Bivol, was next.

Shakhram Giyasov wins unanimous decision

Shakhram Giyasov, an Olympic silver medalist and a welterweight from Uzbekistan, had enough power and poise to emerge from a sloppy fight with a unanimous decision over Mexican Christian Gomez.

It wasn’t close on the scorecards. Giyasov (13-0, 9 KOs) made sure of it with power. He knocked down Gomez (22-3-1, 20 KOs) three times. Two — one in the fourth and again the 10th were — clear. One in seventh, however, appeared to be the result more of a trip than a punch.

Marc Castro wins one-sided decision

Lightweight prospect Marc Castro (7-0, 5 KOs), of Fresno CA, got in some work, dominating Pedro Vicente (7-5-1, 2 KOs).

Vicente, of Puerto Rico, never had a chance. Never won a round either. Castro scored a six-round shutout, 60-54 on all three cards.

Zhang Zhilei scores first-round KO

He was a late stand-in. He didn’t stand for long.

Scott Alexander, a substitute for Croatian Filip Hrgovic, was gone within a minute, thanks to a straight left from Zhang Zhilei, perhaps the biggest athlete from China since Yao Ming.

Zhilei (24-0-1, 19 KOs) might not have the same height as Ming, a former Houston Rocket center. But he’s got a slam dunk for a left hand. He took one step back, threw it on a straight line and it landed, dropping Alexander (16-5-2, 8 KOs) flat onto his back in the first bout in the pay-per-view telecast of the Canelo-Bivol card. It was over at 54 seconds of the opening round

Joselito Velazquez unleashes deadly combo for TKO of Soto

Joselito Velazquez had power. He added precision. It was deadly.

Velazquez (15-0-1, 10 KOs, a Mexican flyweight, blew out Jose Soto with the combination, stopping the Colombian (15-2, 6 KOs) in the sixth round of the final fight before the pay-per-view telecast of the Canelo Alvarez-Dmitry Bivol card.

Velazquez landed a left, short and precise. Then, he followed up with a succession of powerful combinations. Jay Nady ended it at 1:06 of the sixth

Aaron Silva scores powerful TKO

Superman is stitched across the back of Aaron Silva’s trunks. The Mexican super-middleweight lived up to the nickname. Alexis Espino had no chance against his sustained power in the third fight on the Canelo-Alvarez undercard.

Silva (10-0, 7 KOs) stunned Espino (9-1-1, 6 KOs) with a huge right in the fourth and then poured it on, driving Espino into the ropes and leaving him defenseless. Kenny Bayless stopped it at 1:17 of the round.

Abduraimov scores three knockdowns for second-round stoppage

Elnur Abduraimov (9-0, 8 KOs), a powerful junior-bantamweight from Uzbekistan, appeared to be too much Manuel Correa. Appearances quickly turned real.

Correa (11-1, 7 KOs) was finished within two rounds of the second bout on a card featuring Canelo Alvarez-Dmitry Bivol. Abduraimov overwhelmed the Cuban, knocking him down three times in bout stopped at 2:43 of the second.

First Bell: Canelo-Bivol show opens with a split decision

Empty seats, lots of echoes.

That’s how the show started Saturday, about seven hours before Canelo Alvarez and Dmitry Bivol were scheduled to fight for a light-heavyweight title at T-Mobile Arena in a DAZN pay-per-view bout.

There was nothing definitive about the opener. The matinee ended in a split decision. Mexican junior-welterweight Fernando Molina (8-0, 3 KOs) prevailed,mostly because of an edge in power. He rocked Ricardo Valdovinos (8-2, 5 KOs), of San Diego, just enough to win on two of the three score cards.

Filip Hrgovi? has been forced to delay his IBF Heavyweight World Title Final Eliminator against Zhang Zhilei following the death of his father.

Having waited over a year for his opportunity to earn a shot at Oleksandr Usyk’s Heavyweight crown, the Croatian star was set to face Olympic Silver medallist Zhilei on the undercard of Canelo Alvarez’s blockbuster clash with Dmitry Bivol on May 7 at the T Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

“We could not in good conscience allow Filip to enter the ring during this tough time.” said Hrgovi?’s promoter Kalle Sauerland. “We would like to thank the IBF, Daryl Peoples, Zhang Zhilei and our partners Matchroom Boxing for their understanding and compassion in this matter. Pero Hrgovi? was a big part of the team and will be forever missed by us all. Filip will take some time out now to be with his family before resuming his training. We look forward to announcing a new date soon for this exciting Heavyweight clash to determine the next challenger for the IBF World Title and wish both Zhilei Zhang and Scott Alexander good luck in their fight tonight”.

By Norm Frauenheim-

LAS VEGAS — Canelo Alvarez and Dmitry Bivol made weight while a sweating crowd lost some Friday at a weigh-in under hot afternoon sun in the Nevada desert.

With temperature approaching triple digits, both Alvarez (57-1-2, 39 KOs) and Bivol (19-0, 11 KOS) came in under the 175-pound limit for their heavyweight title fight Saturday (Pay-Per-View, DAZN) at T-Mobile Arena.

Alvarez was at 174.4. Bivol, the current World Boxing Association belt-holder, tipped the scale 174.6. Both are expected to be several pounds heavier at opening bell (PPV telecast starts at * pm ET/5 pm PT)

“Canelo, probably 180,” promoter Eddie Hearn told reporters after the weigh-in in front of a lively Cinco de Mayo crowd at the Toshiba Plaza outside of T-Mobile. “Bivol, probably 190.’

Queens, New York (May 6, 2022) — The “Borough Boxing” fight card took to the scales today at Carnesecca Arena ahead of tomorrow nights fights (May 7th). The doors for the first ever fight card at Carnesecca Arena will open at 7PM tomorrow, and fists will fly at 8PM. Tickets can be purchased, HERE or at the Carnesecca Arena box office.

8 Round Welterweight Bout:

DANNY “EL GALLO” GONZALEZ: 146.8 lbs

PAULO GALDINO: 146.4 lbs

8 Round Super Bantamweight Bout:

MAUREEN “REAL MILLION DOLLAR BABY” SHEA: 121.1 lbs

CALISTA SILGADO: 118.4 lbs

4 Round Light Heavyweight Bout:

AFUNWA KING: 178.8 lbs

KAM HUMPHREY: 175.2 lbs

4 Round Super Welterweight Bout:

MAT “THE FUTURE” CASTRO: 153.4 lbs

ANGELO THOMPSON: 150.2 lbs

4 Round Cruiserweight Bout:

EMMANUEL ETIENNE: 189 lbs

TUNDE FATIREGUN: 189 lbs

Ronny Reyes vs Chaske Heminger

NYSAC would not license Chaske Heminger for undisclosed medical reasons and the fight is unable to proceed as scheduled.

Tickets for Saturday May 7th’s, “Borough Boxing” are on sale NOW and can be purchased by clicking HERE, or at the Carnesecca Arena box office. Doors will open at 7:00 PM ET.

“Borough Boxing” is presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing on May 7, 2022 at Carnesecca Arena at St. John’s University in Queens, NY.

Bouts subject to change

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FIGHT NIGHT TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE,

OR AT THE CARNESECCA ARENA BOX OFFICE

BUY TICKETS HERE!
TICKETS START AT JUST $50
FIGHT NIGHT: SATURDAY, MAY 7 AT CARNESECCA ARENA IN QUEENS, NY

STAR BOXING ARCHIVES:

OLEH DOVHUN defended his NABA title for the first time against Belgium Bruiser GERAM ELOYAN in the main event at Rockin’ Fights 41!

TYRONE “PRETTY BOY” JAMES left his mark on “Rockin’ Fights” 35 with a vicious TKO victory over RAY OLIVEIRA JR. to remain undefeated!

Hialeah, FL / May 6, 2022 – Weights for Saturday night’s Noche De Boxeo Cubano 2 card at Hialeah Park

Lenier Pero 245.8 – Hector Perez 245.4

(NABA Central Heavyweight Title)

Anthony Martinez 199.6 – David Light 198.4

Orestes Velazquez 143 – Juan Carlos Salgado 143.8

Victor Abreu 122.6 – Ezequiel A Tevez 121.6

John David Martinez 164.8 – Sergio S Castellano 154.8

Ulysses Diaz 196.8 – Mariano Jose Riva 194.6

Alberto Perez De La Torre 125 – Lucas R Baez 125.2

Livan Navarro 152.4 – Silverio Ortiz 157

Isaac Carbonell 174.4 – Christian Fabian Rios 174.1

Promoter: Warriors Boxing and Rivalta Boxing

Venue: Hialeah Park

1st Bell: 7 PM ET

Tickets for Una Gran Noche de Boxeo Cubano 2 are now on sale through the Hialeah Park website at www.hialeahpark.com.

PHILADELPHIA (May 5, 2020)–An intriguing eight-round junior welterweight between Kenny Robles and undefeated James Bernadin will headline a big night of boxing on Friday, May 20th at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

The card is promoted by King’s Promotions.

Robles of Staten Island, New York, has a record of 9-1 with three knockouts. He has won over previously undefeated Shawn West (9-1, 3 KOs) and is coming off a eight-round unanimous decision over Naim Nelson on March 11th in Bethlehem, PA.

Bernadin of Lancaster, Pennsylvania is 6-0-1 with four knockouts, and already has impressive wins over previously undefeated Osvaldo Morales (4-0), Edgar Tirres (8-2-1). In his last bout, the 29 year-old Bernadin stopped Kevin Asmat in the sixth round on March 11th in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

Taking part in a six-round bout will be surging super middleweight Khainell Wheeler.

Wheeler of Bethlehem is 7-1 with six knockouts. The 28 year-old Wheeler has been impressive in beating previously undefeated Frederick Julan (12-0) and his last outing when he needed just 82 seconds in taking out Ryan Adams on March 11th in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

Seeing action in a eight-round lightweight bout will be undefeated Victor Padilla taking on Jesus Perez (13-13-1, 7 KOs) of Sinaloa, Mexico.

Padilla of Philadelphia is 9-0 with eight knockouts. The 23 year-old Padilla has wins over Romain Tomas (8-2) and his last bout when he stopped previously undefeated Thomas Velasquez (10-0-1) on March 10, 2021 in Uncasville, Connecticut.

In a six-round bout, Kashon Hutchinson (10-5,1 KO) of Reading, PA takes on Damon Towns (4-0, 3 KOs) of Providence, RI in a welterweight contest.

Also on the card will be King’s Promotions fighters that will take part in six-round bouts, junior middleweight James Martin (7-3) of Philadelphia, lightweight, bantamweight Jonathan Rodriguez (10-1, 3 KOs) of Bethlehem, PA will see action against opponents to be named.

Seeing action in a four-round bout will be undefeated welterweight Thanjhae Teasley (2-0, 2 KOs) of Bethlehem, PA taking on Jetter Burgos (1-0) of Bronx, New York.

More fights and opponents will be announced shortly.

Tickets for this outstanding evening of boxing are priced at $55, $75 and $100 and can be purchased at the following link.

https://2300arena.showare.com/orderticketsvenue.asp?p=409

Las Vegas – UFC^® returns to UFC APEX with a thrilling light heavyweight contenders’ battle that will see former champion and current No. 1 ranked Jan Blachowicz take on surging No. 3 Aleksandar Rakic. In the co-main event, No. 13 ranked light heavyweight Ryan Spann battles dangerous striker Ion Cutelaba.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT^®: BLACHOWICZ vs. RAKIC will take place Saturday, May 14 at UFC APEX in Las Vegas. The main card will be available on ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes, as well as simulcast in English and Spanish on ESPN+, starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT. The prelims will kick off on ESPN2, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 7:30 p.m. ET / 4:30 p.m. PT.

Blachowicz (28-9, fighting out of Warsaw, Poland) aims to kick off his 2022 campaign with another spectacular KO victory. During his UFC run, he has delivered memorable wins against Israel Adesanya, Dominick Reyes and Luke Rockhold. Blachowicz now looks to stop Rakic’s momentum with a show-stealing performance and set himself up for another crack at the championship.

Rakic (14-2, fighting out of Vienna, Austria) hopes to keep his momentum going following victories over former title challengers Thiago Santos and Anthony Smith. A well-rounded competitor with KO power, he has also secured notable stoppage victories over Jimi Manuwa and Devin Clark. Rakic now hopes to take out a former champion and stake his claim for his first UFC title shot.

Spann (19-7, fighting out of Beaumont, Texas) plans to turn heads with another highlight reel victory. A Dana White’s Contender Series veteran, he has earned exciting finishes against Misha Cirkunov, Devin Clark and Antonio Rogerio Nogueira. Spann now intends to defend his spot in the Top 15 by stopping Cutelaba in emphatic fashion.

Heavy-handed Cutelaba (16-6-1 1NC, fighting out of Chisinau, Republic of Moldova) is gunning for the biggest victory of his career. An aggressive striker, he has delivered thrilling knockouts over Khalil Rountree Jr., Gadzhimurad Antigulov and Henrique da Silva. Cutelaba now has his sights set on finishing Spann to crack the light heavyweight Top 15.

Additional bouts on the card include:

• Davey Grant (13-6, fighting out of Bishop Auckland, County Durham, England) battles Louis Smolka (17-8, fighting out of Kapolei, Hawaii) in an exciting bantamweight matchup
• No. 2 ranked women’s flyweight contender Katlyn Chookagian (17-4, fighting out of Amity Harbor, N.Y. by way of Quakertown, Penn.) looks to spoil the 125-pound return of No. 8 strawweight Amanda Ribas (11-2, fighting out of Varginha, Minas Gerais, Brazil)
• Frank Camacho (22-9, fighting out of Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands) faces debuting Dana White’s Contender Series signee Manuel Torres (12-2, fighting out of Tijuana, Mexico)
• Dana White’s Contender Series contract winner Jake Hadley (8-0, fighting out of Oldbury, Sandwell, England) debuts against Allan Nascimento (17-6, fighting out of Sao Paulo, Brazil) in a flyweight bout
• No. 8 ranked women’s flyweight contender Viviane Araujo (10-3, fighting out of Brasília, Federal District, Brazil) takes on Andrea Lee (13-5, fighting out of Shreveport, La.)
• Fan favorite Michael Johnson (20-17, fighting out of St. Louis, Mo.) returns to action against Alan Patrick (15-3 1NC, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) at lightweight
• No. 11 ranked strawweight contender Virna Jandiroba (17-3, fighting out of Feira de Santana, Bahia, Brazil) collides with No. 12 Angela Hill (13-11, fighting out of San Diego, Calif.)
• Undefeated flyweight Tatsuro Taira (10-0, fighting out of Naha, Okinawa, Japan) debuts against Dana White’s Contender Series contract winner Carlos Candelario (8-1, fighting out of Hartford, Conn.)
• Undefeated Nick Maximov (8-0, fighting out of Stockton, Calif.) squares off with The Ultimate Fighter season 28 veteran Andre Petroski (7-2, fighting out of Philadelphia, Penn.)

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

###

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 21.3 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).

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.

DANIEL DUBOIS WILL challenge Trevor Bryan for the WBA regular world title on June 11 in Miami and you can catch the heavyweight action, along with a British title double-header from Telford on the same night, all on BT Sport.

WBA No.1 ranked Dubois (17-1, 16 KOs) heads Stateside for his breakthrough fight against the unbeaten New Yorker Bryan (22-0, 15 KOs), with the pair set to fight for the right to be made mandatory to the full WBA champion Oleksandr Usyk, depending on the outcome of his forthcoming rematch against Anthony Joshua.

Bryan, 32, won his belt via an 11th round stoppage of Bermane Stiverne and has navigated a single defence against Jonathan Guidry, last time out in January, with success coming via a split decision on the cards.

Dubois, just 24, will be having his second fight across the Atlantic after introducing himself to the American market with a typical first round stoppage of Joe Cusumano last August. He previously won the WBA Interim belt with a second round demolition of Bogdan Dinu in Telford.

“I am thrilled that Daniel is getting his big opportunity to fight for a world championship belt,” said his promoter Frank Warren. “He has had to bide his time and be a little bit patient because there was always the risk of him being bypassed if he took another fight in the interim.

“Now his time has come and winning this fight will open all sorts of doors. A new generation of top heavyweights are closing in on the current kings of the division and Daniel, along with Joe Joyce, is leading the charge.

“Bryan isn’t a household name but there can be no room for complacency. He is unbeaten with a more than respectable knockout ratio, so Daniel will need to be on his guard and on his game in Miami.

“I am also delighted that BT Sport viewers will be served up with a double-helping of boxing action on the night, with our British title battles from the Telford International Arena leading into Daniel’s heavyweight title challenge.”

In Telford, Liam Davies (11-0, 5 KOs) will challenge new champion Marc Leach (18-1-1, 4 KOs) for the British super bantamweight title in his hometown.

In the other half of the British title double, Birmingham’s Ijaz Ahmed (10-2-1, 1 KO) and London’s Kaisy Khademi (8-1-1, 2 KOs) will go at it for a third time with the vacant super flyweight belt at stake and a final eliminator for a shot at the Commonwealth championship.

And in a fight where two prospects put it all on the line, the unbeaten super lightweight Eithan James (8-0) from Northampton goes up against Connor Parker (13-1, 1 KO), Zach Parker’s cousin from Woodville in Derbyshire, in an eliminator for the English title.

Tickets for the show at Telford International Centre on Saturday, 11 June are on sale now, available from Ticketmaster.co.uk.

The official weigh-in for tomorrow’s big Fight Night presented by Wasserman Boxing in association with Probellum at the Sartory Saal in Cologne, Germany, took place today. All fighters successfully made weight and are ready to go for tomorrow night.
 

All Weights from Cologne

Radovan vs. Bejaran – IBF European Middleweight Championship

Denis Radovan (Germany) – 72,4 kilograms / 159,61 lbs

Rafael Bejaran (Dominican Republic) – 72,0 kilograms / 158,73 lbs

Hammer vs. Davydova – 8 Rounds – Super Middleweight

Christina Hammer (Germany) – 74,8 kilograms / 164,91 lbs

Luiza Davydova (Russia) – 74,1 kilograms / 163,36 lbs

Bunn vs. Teffahi – 8 Rounds – Light Heavyweight

Leon Bunn (Germany) – 79,0 kilograms / 174,17 lbs

Islam Teffahi (Belgium) – 75,7 kilograms / 166,89 lbs

Alisch vs. Cantos – 6 Rounds – Featherweight

Sophie Alisch (Germany) – 56,8 kilograms / 125,22 lbs

Eva Cantos (Spain) – 57,1 kilograms / 125,88 lbs

Zaren vs. Radulovic – 6 Rounds – Super Middleweight

Oliver Zaren (Denmark) – 76,2 kilograms / 167,99 lbs

Novak Radulovic (Serbia) – TBA

Khegai vs. Garcia – 10 Rounds – Featherweight

Arnold Khegai (Ukraine) – 57,1 kilograms / 125,88 lbs

Ruben Tostado Garcia (Mexico) – 56,9 kilograms / 125,44 lbs

Rogava vs. Basset – 6 Rounds – Heavyweight

Tsotne Rogava (Ukraine) – 114,8 kilograms / 253,09 lbs

Michael Basset (Great Britain) – 110,6 kilograms / 243,83 lbs

The Cologne Fight Night on May 7 at the Sartory Saal is presented by Wasserman Boxing in association with Probellum. BILDplus will stream the event starting at 8pm local time, with the TV broadcast on BILD set to start at 10pm. Tickets bought for the original date of April 30 will remain valid, but can be returned at the point of purchase. Tickets are available at Eventim and at all known ticket offices.

Bryan Acosta remained undefeated with a 10th round stoppage over Benito Sanchez Garcia in a featherweight bout at Rebel Entertainment Complex in Toronto, Canada.

In round one, Acosta dropped Garcia with a left hook.

Acosta dominated the action until a relentless flurry of action forced a referee stoppage at 1:37.

Acosta of Mexico is 17-0 with six knockouts. Garcia of Jalisco, MEX is 16-6-2.

Reeves Decisions Maldonado

Lee Reeves won an eight-round unanimous decision over Sebastian Diaz Maldonado in a junior welterweight bout.

Reeves, 140 lbs of Limerick, IRE won by scores of 80-72 and is now 9-1. Maldonado, 139 lbs of Aguas Calliente, MEX is 17-5-1.

Wilcox Decisions Martinez

Steven Wilcox won an six-round unanimous decision over Miguel Angel Martinez in a welterweight bout.

Wilcox, 142 lbs of Hamilton, ONT, CAN won by scores of 60-54 twice and 58-56 and is now 23-3-1. Martinez, 147 lbs of Jalisco, MEX is 15-5-1.

Zawadi stops Medina in 2

Mohammad Zawadi stopped Diego Paredes Medina in round two of their four-round light heavyweight bout.

At the end of round one, Zawadi dropped Medina with a left hook that was followed up by a combination. In round two, Zawai uncorked an overhand right that landed square on the head that put Medina down again. Medina followed that up with a big flurry that put Medina down for a third time, and the fight was stopped at 1:41.

Zawadi, 179 lbs of Barrie, ONT, CAN is 3-1 with three knockouts, Medina, 177 lbs of Culican, MEX is 2-2.

ONTARIO, CA (May 5, 2022): The DAZN live stream of Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramírez vs. Dominic Boesel on Saturday, May 14 will feature lightweight sensation William “El Camaron” Zepeda (25-0, 23 KOs) defending his WBA Continental Americas Lightweight Title against the resilient, former world champion, Rene “Gemelo” Alvarado (32-11, 21 KOs) of Managua, Nicaragua in a 10-round lightweight co-main event. Diego De La Hoya (22-1, 10 KOs) of Mexicali, MX will also make his grand return to the ring in a 10-round fight against Jose Gonzalez (23-9-1, 13 KOs) of Guadalajara, MX. Also, part of the live stream, John “Scrappy” Ramirez (9-0, 7 KOs) of Los Angeles, CA, will fight for a regional title for the first time in his career. Ramirez will take on Carlos Sardinez (16-5, 2 KOs) of San Juan, ARG, in an 8-round fight for the vacant NABA Super Featherweight title. In the main event of the night, Mexican light heavyweight star Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (43-0, 29 KOs) of Mazatlan, MX, will be taking on former interim world champion Dominic Boesel (32-2, 12 KOs) of Freyburg, Germany in a 12-round light heavyweight fight for the WBA Light Heavyweight Final Title Eliminator. The event will take place at Toyota Arena in Ontario, CA, and will stream live exclusively on DAZN starting at 5:00 p.m. PT / 8:00 p.m. ET.

“Zepeda vs. Alvarado will be the fight of the night,” said William Zepeda. “We both have come-forward styles that the fans will enjoy. There will be non-stop action and I can’t wait to show the fans a great night of boxing.”

“I want to thank Golden Boy for this opportunity,” said Rene Alvarado. “Zepeda is a strong fighter. A victory over him will invigorate my career. Those that know me and know my style, know that I am the type of fighter that brings it, and May 14 will not be the exception. I guarantee all the boxing fans that this will be the best fight of the night.”

“I am anxious and excited to get back in the ring and I look forward to bigger and better opportunities after this fight,” said Diego De La Hoya. “It’s been a while since my last fight, but you’ll see a motivated and determined DDLH come May 14.”

“From the first day I walked into Wildcard Boing Club, I envisioned this moment” said John Ramirez. “I want to thank Golden Boy, Zurdo Promotions, and the 3 Point Management for the opportunity to fight on this card, especially for the opportunity to fight for a regional title. On May 14th the ‘Inner City Legend’ will take over the super flyweight division.”

Tickets for Zurdo vs Boesel are on sale now and are priced at $150, $75, $50 and $25 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase at Ticketmaster.com, Toyota-arena.com, Goldenboypromotions.com or the Toyota Arena box office Monday through Friday from 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Zurdo vs. Boesel is a 12-round light heavyweight fight for the WBA Light Heavyweight Final Eliminator presented by Golden Boy in association with Zurdo Promotions and SES Boxing. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Saturday, May 14, at the Toyota Arena in Ontario, CA and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN worldwide.

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

MIAMI, FL (May 5, 2022)—When the World’s Greatest Boxing Promoter Don King puts together a fight night card, he’s all about staging a night filled with title bouts.

King has got another night of action as the legendary promoter has put together five title fights headlined by the WBA Heavyweight Championship pitting defending champion Trevor Bryan (22-0, 15 KOs) going up against the number one contender Daniel DuBois (17-1, 16 KOs) from Greenwich, London.  

The action-packed evening is set for Saturday, June 11^th at the Casino Miami Jai-Alai in Miami, FL in the night the promoter is billing “The Fight for Freedom and Peace”.  The fight card will be on Pay-Per-View and an announcement on ticket availability will be made soon.

Bryan recently moved his training camp from Ft. Lauderdale, FL to Las Vegas, NV and had a recent visitor in former heavyweight champion Larry Holmes, who worked with the present WBA champ on his jab.

The 32-year-old Bryan will be going up against the younger DuBois, at 24-years of age.

In addition to the main event, the NABA Gold Heavyweight title fight will feature champion DaCarree Scott (7-0, 6 KOs) of Decatur, GA defending his title against another Georgia slugger in Jonathan Guidry (17-1-2, 5 KOs) from Dulac, GA.  Guidry’s lone blemish came at the hands of Bryan.

Florida’s NABA Cruiserweight Champion Johnnie Langston (10-3, 4 Kos) of Sarasota, FL will defend his title against Plantation, Florida’s Isaiah Thompson (6-1-1, 5 KOs).

Tre’Sean Wiggins (13-5-3, 7 KOs), of Newburgh, NY will defend his NABA Welterweight championship against Florida’s Travis Castellon (17-4-1, 12 KOs).

Promoter Don King recently signed super lightweight contender Ryan Martin (24-2, 14 KOs) from Chattanooga, TN.  Martin is managed by country music superstar Kane Brown and this will be Martin’s first fight under the leadership of Brown.

Martin will take center stage in the fifth title fight of the evening as he goes after the NABA Lightweight Championship against an opponent to be named.

WASHINGTON, DC (May 4, 2022) – Former world title challenger, Anthony Peterson (38-1-1, 24 KOs), the brother of two-time world champion Lamont Peterson, is returning on May 28th in Washington D.C. at the Entertainment and Sports Arena. Peterson will fight at super lightweight against Saul Corral (23-18, 13 KOs), in his first 8-bout partnering up with Team Freeway Boxing headed by street legend, “Freeway” Rick Ross.

“I am excited to return to the ring, as my brother, Lamont Peterson is now my full-time coach along with Sean Johnson and James Baker, who were amateur boxing stars in their own right in the area,” said Peterson. “I am grateful to Team Freeway boxing for putting this together. I want to thank Sarah Fina, who has helped me a ton in my career. She put me in a position to be as successful as possible, so I want to give her credit for where I am at. Sarah believed in me when a lot of people didn’t. Although we are not working together anymore, I don’t want her efforts to go unnoticed.”

Peterson, who has been out of the ring for nine months, now has a new team starting with Team Freeway Boxing and is looking to finish his career as a world champion. The goal for Peterson is to stay active and achieve as much as he can.

“I am looking forward to making a big bang in 2022, I am taking it one fight at a time right now, but my goals in the sport are massive,” continued Peterson. “I want to thank everyone who stuck by me through the turbulent times, I know it hasn’t been easy – but I am back, and ready to put on a show.”

HOUSTON – May 4, 2022 – Undefeated WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo will hold a Juneteenth celebration in his hometown for the second-straight year when he steps into the ring to face tough former title challenger Maciej Sulecki on Saturday, June 18 live on SHOWTIME from Toyota Center in Houston in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see undefeated top super bantamweight contender Ra’eese Aleem taking on Mike Plania in the 10-round co-main event, plus the Derrick James-trained unbeaten lightweight contender Frank Martin battles Panama’s power-punching Ricardo Núñez in the 10-round telecast opener.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at toyotacenter.com.

Charlo (32-0, 22 KOs) returns to fight in his hometown of Houston for the fifth time in his career, having most recently earned an entertaining unanimous decision win there over Juan Montiel last June on SHOWTIME. The 31-year-old scored an impressive unanimous decision triumph over top middleweight contender Sergiy Derevyanchenko in their September 2020 showdown and owns a 7-0 record since moving up to middleweight in 2017. A two-division world champion, Charlo also strung together an impressive run at 154-pounds, capturing the IBF title in 2015 and piling up victories over champions Austin Trout, Cornelius Bundrage and Julian Williams, whom he floored three times on his way to a memorable fifth-round knockout.

“I’m excited to get back in the ring in front of my people in Houston and put on a great show fighting on Juneteenth weekend once again,” said Charlo. “I’m ready to handle my business and give everyone what they’re coming out to see. Sulecki is a tough fighter who’s going to come in hungry. But I’m fighting for something bigger and I won’t be stopped from delivering a special performance on June 18.”

A native of Warsaw, Poland, Sulecki (30-2, 11 KOs) trains in Chicago, Ill. with his new co-trainer and longtime Polish contender Andrzej Fonfara. He will look to earn his third straight victory on June 18. The 32-year-old has never been stopped and has won four of his last five fights, including a unanimous decision over Gabriel Rosado that earned him the title shot against Demetrius Andrade that he would eventually lose by decision. Sulecki has fought professionally since 2010 and has also scored notable victories in defeating former titleholder Jack Culcay in 2017 and knocking out then undefeated Hugo Centeno Jr. in 2016.

“I’ve been training for a long time for this fight and I feel strong and ready to get in the ring,” said Sulecki. “Charlo is a great champion and I respect what he can do, but I don’t think he’s any better than the best fighters I’ve faced before. I think I am the stronger fighter mentally and physically. I don’t think he’s a killer. He hasn’t even been able to stop his last two opponents. I’ve fought as the underdog in my opponent’s hometown, so I’m not worried about fighting in Houston at all. We have a huge community of Polish fans in the U.S. and I know they’ll be there supporting me on June 18.”

Owning a top-10 ranking at 122-pounds from multiple sanctioning bodies, Aleem (19-0, 12 KOs) put on the most impressive performance of his career in January 2021 to capture the interim WBA title on SHOWTIME. Aleem dominated in a battle of unbeatens, dropping Victor Pasillas four times before eventually stopping him in round 11. Raised in Michigan and training out of Las Vegas, Nev., Aleem, 31, had stopped his past seven opponents inside the distance before most recently earning a decision victory over Eduardo Baez in November 2021.

“The time is now to take that next step in my career toward a world title shot and I know that a win against a tough opponent like Mike Plania will put me in that position,” said Aleem. “I’ve been waiting patiently for my opportunity to show everyone why I’m the best super bantamweight in the world. I’m grateful to my team for believing in me and my ability to bring excitement on the big stage. I’m never in a boring fight and you will see the best of me come June 18. I’m going to let my hands fly and do the talking.”

The 25-year-old Plania (26-1, 13 KOs) dropped Joshua Greer twice in their June 2020 clash on his way to a career-best decision victory, which he followed up in April 2021 by defeating Emmanuel Mogawa before stopping Ricardo Nunez in November. A native of General Santos City in the Philippines, Plania has put together a 11-fight winning streak since a 2018 decision loss against former champion Juan Carlos Payano. Plania has fought professionally since 2014, with five of his last six outings taking place stateside.

“Ever since I beat Joshua Greer to put myself in the world rankings, I have been looking for an opportunity to fight the best at 122 pounds to secure a world title shot,” said Plania. “June 18 is that time and by beating Ra’eese Aleem, I will show everyone I deserve to fight for the title. I want to thank my whole team for putting me in this position and I can’t wait to get in there and show what I’m capable of.”

The 27-year-old Martin (15-0, 11 KOs) rose up the lightweight rankings in 2021 with a pair of impressive victories before most recently delivering a New Year’s Day KO over Romero Duno. In 2021, Martin knocked out the previously unbeaten Jerry Perez in a dominating performance in April, before earning a unanimous decision over Ryan Kielczweski in August. Originally from Indianapolis, Martin now trains in the Dallas-area under the guidance of top trainer James alongside unified welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr.

“I’ve been training hard in Dallas and I’m just excited and ready to go,” said Martin. “Núñez is a boxer-puncher, so I expect him to mix it up with some fast combinations and to try and throw my movement off, but I’ll be ready for all of that. Fight fans are going to enjoy an action fight with this one. We’ve got the speed, power and athleticism to put on an exciting show on June 18.”

Representing La Chorrera, Panama, Núñez (23-3, 21 KOs) enters this fight with knockout victories in his last two fights, including most recently stopping Richard Solano in the first round in October 2021. The 28-year-old moved back up to lightweight for those two victories after challenging three-division champion Gervonta Davis in July 2019 for a 130-pound title. Núñez has fought professionally since 2010 and has a brother also named Ricardo who is a veteran pro fighter in the featherweight division.

“I’m very happy to be back in a big fight on June 18,” said Núñez. “You’re going to see a whole new fighter against Martin. I’m coming to fight and impose my style on my opponent. Martin is a good boxer who’s made it to a high level, but he still has to show what he’s made of. I’m going to give one hundred percent to stop his rise and be the first person to beat him.”

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #CharloSulecki, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.

Tijuana, Mexico (May 4, 2022) Triller Fight Club has announced ‘The Rising,’ an entertaining Monday Night Fight Series debuting on May 9, 2022, and emanating from the beautiful Grupo Caliente in Tijuana, Mexico in addition to being broadcast globally on FITE.

The Monday Night Fight Series commences Triller Fight Club’s robust future for broadcasting world-class professional boxing from Mexico and Latin America. Additionally, Triller Fight Club will unveil an extensive fight library including numerous world championship fights from Mexico and Latin America in the coming months.

The May 9 eight-bout card kicks off a full fight week of exciting events leading up to Triller Fight Club’s highly anticipated TrillerVerz 5 on Saturday, May 14, 2022, at the Forum in Los Angeles, CA.

Mahi de Silva, CEO of Triller, said, “We are thrilled to partner with No Puedes Jugar Boxeo and Grupo Caliente as we expand our global reach. Triller Fight Club is poised to develop shows and events with exceptional fighters at landmark stadiums and arenas throughout Latin America and Mexico.”

The inaugural May 9 broadcast from the City of Champions will feature special guest Three-Time Junior Middleweight World Champion Fernando ‘El Feroz’ Vargas who will be guiding ‘The Vargas Dynasty’; his three sons Fernando Jr., Amado, and Emiliano into the ring at TrillerVerz 5. Broadcasters on the event include Three-Time World Champion and Mexican Boxing Legend Israel ‘Magnifico’ Vazquez and Ernesto Amador, a leading boxing commentator for over three decades of No Puedes Jugar Boxeo Promotions.

Headlining the boxing event on May 9 in a ten-round lightweight clash, Antonio Lozado (40-5-1 34 KOs), of Baja California, battles Eduard Leonel (9-2-1, 4 KOs), of Aguascaliente, Mexico. Lozado is best known for his upset knockout victory over then-undefeated fast-rising Puerto Rican star Felix Verdejo in March 2018.

A unique feature attraction will see Justin Mayweather (6-0, 5 KOs) competing in a four-round junior middleweight bout against an opponent to be announced. Justin is the son of former perennial contender Jeff Mayweather and nephew of Boxing Legend Floyd Mayweather.

In a ten-round women’s junior flyweight fight, Marilyn ‘La Mexicana’ Badillo (11-0, 2 KO’s) faces Cindy Corona (5-3).

Competing in a ten-round super flyweight bout, Victor Efrain Sandoval (35-3-0, 23 KOs) faces off against Jose Javier Torres (15-2, 9 KOs).

In a six-round super welterweight battle, Jorge Luis Garcia (6-0, 5 KOs) clashes with Luis Guerrero Ochoa (4-3-1, 1 KOs).

Middleweight newcomer Terryl Johnson (1-0, 1KO) battles Ernesto Cardona Sanchez, (3-12) in a scheduled four-round middleweight bout.

Competing in a scheduled four-round super welterweight bout, Brian Landeros Juarez (2-0-1, 2 KOs) faces Rafael Carmona Mendez (4-2, 2 KOs).

Rounding out the card in the super lightweight division, Jesus Resendiz (5-0-1, 4 KOs) battles Alberto Artiga Perez (6-8, 2 KOs) over six scheduled rounds.

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Launched less than two years ago, Triller Fight Club has already sold over 3,000,000 Pay-Per-Views in the past year, making it one of the top-selling combat sports/entertainment platforms. TrillerVerz’s widely acclaimed monthly series, including world-class professional boxing and musical Verzuz battles, has consistently been at the top of watched broadcasts averaging over 6,000,000 views. 

Triller entered into a definitive merger agreement with SeaChange International, Inc. (NASDAQ: SEAC), in a transaction that would result in the combined company being named TrillerVerz Corp., and its common stock will be listed on Nasdaq, subject to completion of the conditions listed in the S4, which was filed recently by SeaChange (NASD: SEAC).

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Follow Triller Fight Club on social media: 

Instagram: @Triller, @TrillerFightClub
Twitter: @Triller, @TrillerFight

Facebook: @TrillerFightClub

ATLANTA, GA (May 4, 2022)–Sporting over 5 million followers on Instagram, 509,000 subscribers on YouTube and 160,000 on TikTok, Supreme Patty has become an internet sensation….an influencer.

Patty, whose real name is Patrick Wallace, is a 24 year old from Daytona Beach, Florida. He has had a few boxing matches so far in his social media career, most knowingly his fight against Danrue, where he won by decision for Rough N’ Rowdy in 2021.

On June 11th, he will take part in a huge night of boxing that will originate from the Center Stage Theater in Atlanta.

Supreme Patty is one of the most known and influential creators of this generation.

Patty is mostly known for his comedy videos on Instagram, where many compare him to a modern day Jackass. He started making videos in 2017, where he was going to college in Florida at Santa Fe College. He later dropped out after amassing over 500k followers on Instagram and ended up moving to Los Angeles.

Supreme Patty has also made a mark in the music industry, amassing over 100M streams across all platforms and making songs with notable artists such as YNW Melly.

Looking forward, Patty is ready to continue his boxing career and fitness journey, continuing to inspire millions upon the way.

The show is promoted by Prestige Boxing Advisory Group in association with BFC The Last Round Promotions.

Former world champion, Alfredo “Perro” Angulo (26-8, 21 KOs) takes on Fidel Monterrosa Munoz (40-29-1, 32 KOs) in an eight-round super middleweight bout.

Undefeated welterweight, Peter Dobson (15-0, 9 KOs) of Bronx, NY will fight Rodrigo Damian Coria (10-3, 2 KOs) of Cordoba, Argentina in a welterweight bout.

In a six-round bout, popular middleweight Casey” K Champ” Dixon (2-0, 1 KO) will fight for the WBA Super Middleweight Youth Title.

The six-round co-feature will pit Atlanta’s Quatavious Cash (14-3, 8 KOs) takes on Jayson Minda (14-7-1, 8 KOs) of Salem, Massachusetts.

Also in a special attraction, super bantamweight and world renowned model and undefeated Avril Mathie of Miami via Australia will risk her record that reads 7-0-1 with three knockouts in an eight-round bout.

Also seeing action in six-round bouts will be featherweight Jose Nieves (2-0, 1 KO) of Woodbridge, New Jersey; junior welterweight Patrick Harris (19-0, 9 KOs) of Upper Marlboro, Maryland;

June 11th will see the pro debut of highly regarded and two-time National Golden Gloves champion light heavyweight Abel Gonzalez.

In four-round bouts, heavyweight Dante Williams (1-0, 1 KO) of Hawkinsville, Georgia.

Tickets are $100, $250 and $500 and can be purchased on www.ticketmaster.com

The show will be streamed live on www.bxngtv.com

NEW YORK (May 4, 2022) — Three belts and light heavyweight supremacy will be at stake when WBC/IBF world champion Artur Beterbiev meets WBO champion Joe Smith Jr. in a highly anticipated unification showdown Saturday, June 18, at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden.
 
Beterbiev, boxing’s only world champion with a 100 percent knockout rate, hopes to pick up another strap against “Cinderella Man” Smith, a Long Island native who grew up about 70 miles from Madison Square Garden.
 
In the 10-round featherweight co-feature, two-time Cuban Olympic gold medalist Robeisy “El Tren” Ramirez will battle the unbeaten Abraham “El Super” Nova. Beterbiev-Smith and Ramirez-Nova will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
 
Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing, tickets starting at $56 go on sale Friday, May 6 at 12 p.m. ET, and can be purchased by visiting Ticketmaster.com or MSG.com.
 
“Beterbiev versus Smith is one of the very best fights that can be made in boxing, two huge punchers fighting at Madison Square Garden in what will be an electric atmosphere. Whoever comes out on top will be the true king of the light heavyweight division,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Robeisy Ramirez has developed into a sensational pro, and he will have his hands full against a tough, undefeated kid in Abraham Nova. The winner will be in line to fight for a featherweight world title.”
 
“I am thrilled we were able to put this sensational championship unification fight together,” said Joe DeGuardia, President of Star Boxing. “The top two punchers in boxing fighting each other for their three world titles. It has been brewing for a long time and is a potential fight of the year. Joe Smith Jr. is proud of his humble background and hard-working union ‘Common Man’ moniker, but he is also truly special and a real champ.  He could have chosen an easier path, but he wanted the best and toughest out there, the guy everyone is afraid to fight. Credit to both champions, each fighting the toughest, hardest-punching and most dangerous foe the division has. I can’t wait to see this fight!”
 
Beterbiev (17-0, 17 KOs), a two-time Russian Olympian, has spent his nine-year pro career based in Montreal, Canada. He has been a world champion since knocking out Enrico Koelling for the IBF strap in November 2017. He’s won five title fights inside the distance since then, including an off-the-deck victory over Callum Johnson and a title unification classic versus Oleksandr Gvozdyk in 2019. Beterbiev went 2-0 in 2021, capping the year with December’s brutal ninth-round stoppage over longtime contender Marcus Browne.
 
“I look forward to the challenge ahead of me. Joe Smith Jr. is a worthy champion, but I am coming to Madison Square Garden to add another world title to my collection,” Beterbiev said. “This fight will get me one step closer to becoming undisputed champion.”
 
Smith (28-3, 22 KOs) earned mainstream recognition with his 2016 knockout of living legend Bernard Hopkins and scored standout wins over Jesse Hart and Eleider Alvarez in 2020. In his second world title attempt, he outlasted Maxim Vlasov in a 2021 Fight of the Year Contender. Smith successfully defend his world title in January with a ninth-round stoppage over late replacement Steve Geffrard.
 
Smith said, “I am extremely excited and focused on this task I have ahead. Facing Beterbiev is huge. It is going to be a fight that fans remember forever, with two of the biggest punches in boxing today facing off. This opportunity is a dream of mine to accomplish. Fighting with three titles on the line is one step closer to becoming undisputed.”
 
Ramirez (9-1, 5 KOs) has been on a sterling run since a shocking loss in his August 2019 professional debut. An Olympic champion in 2012 and 2016, Ramirez is coming off one-sided victories over the unbeaten Orlando Gonzalez and Irish veteran Eric Donovan. Nova (21-0, 15 KOs), who spent much of his career at junior lightweight, has been flawless since moving up to the featherweight ranks. Born in Puerto Rico and raised in Albany, New York, Nova knocked out William Encarnacion in eight rounds on the Smith-Geffrard undercard in January.
 
Ramirez said, “I have always wanted to display my talent on a stage as important as the iconic Madison Square Garden in New York City. Come June 18, I will not only take advantage of this big opportunity, but I will also hand Nova the first loss of his career. I’m going to take a big leap in my quest to become world champion, and above all, showcase my class and give boxing fans another great performance. I will make clear that ‘El Tren’ is a true powerhouse in the featherweight division.”
 
Nova said, “Robeisy is a great talent, and he’s the fighter that will get me to that next level. I need a statement victory. Beating a two-time gold medalist puts me right in the title picture. The better the competition, the better I look. Nobody has seen the best of me yet, and I will show that on June 18.”
 
The undercard, which will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+, is scheduled to feature many of the sport’s rising superstars. In six-round bouts, Brooklyn-born featherweight puncher Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington (3-0, 2 KOs) and Long Island welterweight Jahi Tucker (7-0, 4 KOs) hope to extend their unbeaten records. U.S. Olympian Troy Isley (5-0, 3 KOs), fresh off his knockout win on the Oscar Valdez-Shakur Stevenson undercard, returns in a six-round middleweight bout. Featherweight Kurt Walker (2-0, 1 KO) and junior middleweight Kieran Molloy (1-0, 1 KO), both of whom starred for the Irish national team as amateurs, will make their respective U.S. debuts.

BOSTON (May 4, 2022) – Two-time Dominican Olympian, lightweight Leonel de los Santos (6-0, 5 KOs), may be settling in the Boston area to enhance his professional boxing career. In fact, he recently spent a month there preparing for his last fight, which resulted in a win by way of a 6-round decision this past March in his native Dominican Republic.

Santos’ manager, Ryan Roach, lives in Boston and he introduced his undefeated lightweight to trainer Alex Rivera, and that paid immediate dividends in terms of improvement.

Santos, 26, trained at the Somerville Boxing Club under Rivera, who trains 26-0 welterweight Rashidi Ellis, who Santos sparred with several times, and US Olympian Rashida Ellis, Rashidi’s sister.

“The conditions at our training camp in Boston were very good,” Santos said. “I learned a lot of new things about professional boxing from Alex in just a short time, especially my defense about dodging smaller boxers. He really helped my performance in my last fight.

Rivera only worked with Santos two weeks, but the two connected right away.

“Leonel is a good boxer with a lot of experience,” Rivera remembered. “He has speed and power. We worked on making him more technically sound. It’s about hitting without being hit. He is very tall for his weight class – 5’ 8’ or 5’ 9” – with a good reach. We got along right away, and it was like we had been working together for a long time. I think he can make some noise with his amateur background. He has all the tools. Reminds me a little of Ryan Garcia: tall and strong for his weight class. Leonel has what it takes.

“I wasn’t with Leonel for his last fight, but I did watch some highlights. The guy he fought (Andres Bens Zapata) could really take a punch. Leonel’s hands were swollen after the fight from hitting his opponent so much. Leonel hit him with everything he had. I noticed how his defense and distance had improved. That’s what we worked on. He kept his distance and had a clean fight.”

Santos, who has relatives living in nearby Lawrence, MA, is applying for a work visa to train with Rivera.

“I think training with Alex vastly improved Leonel’s boxing and timing,” Santos’ manager Roach added. “Alex worked a lot on distance, which will lead to more power behind his shots. I saw big changes in Leonel’s last fight. He applied the skills he learned with Alex, and I look forward to more.”

Fighter Locker’s growing stable of gifted boxers also includes California super flyweight Rocco “So Cal Kid” Santomauro (21-1, 6 KOs), New York’s ABF American West super lightweight Ray Jay “The Destroyer” Bermudez (16-0, 11 KOs), Connecticut’s ABF USA super welterweight Jimmy “Quiet Storm” Williams (18-5-2, 6 KOs), Colorado’s ABF American West super middleweight champion “The Amazing” Shawn McCalman (10-0, 6 KOs), Massachusetts super lightweight Adrian “Tonka” Sosa (12-0, 9 KOs), Florida super bantamweight Daniel “The Dedication” Bailey, Jr. (10-1, 5 KOs), Massachusetts featherweight Troy Anderson, Jr. (4-0, 2 KOs), 2-time Brazilian Olympian & 2016 Olympic silver medalist Yuberjen Martinez, Brazilian Olympian Jorge Vivas, Dominican cruiserweight Roki “Rocky” Berroa (2-0, 1 KO), Dominican super welterweight Juan Solano Santos (1-0, 1 KO), Georgia super middleweight James Hagler, Jr. (2-1, 1 KO), Dominican featherweight Orlando Perez Zapata (10-0, 8 KOs), Dominican lightweight Isaelin Florian Henriguez (8-1, 4 KOs), Florida light heavyweight Robert Daniels, Jr. (6-0, 5 KOs), Irish light heavyweight Tommy “The Kid” O’Toole (3-0, 2 KOs), Texas super lightweight Miranda “La Alacrana” Reyes (5-1-1, 2 KOs), Massachusetts super featherweight Alex Rivera (3-0, 2 KOs), Kansas brothers, welterweight Marcus (3-0, 3 KOs) and super lightweight Marcell (1-0), and Utah brothers, ABF American West lightweight champion Ignacio Chairez (9-0-1, 5 KOs) and lightweight Gabriel Chairez (4-0-1, 2 KOs).

INFORMATION:

WEBSITE: fighterlocker.com, punch4parkinsons.com

FACEBOOK: /fighterlocker

TWITTER: @RoachRyan

INSTAGRAM: @RyanRoach82

ABOUT FIGHTER LOCKER: Established in 2019, Fighter Locker is a comprehensive sports agency that manages professional boxers. Fighter Locker also helps to brand boxers by finding their voice with a 100-percent customized service. Fighter Locker does not really believe in working models. It believes in partnership optimization models in motion.

Fighter Locker uses four creative steps because it believes in “the foundation is everything”: 1. wisely conceived, 2. creatively restrained, 3. Proudly judged, 4. sharply targeted.

KISSIMMEE, Florida (May 4, 2022): Puerto Rican world champion Jonathan “La Bomba” Gonzalez (25-3-1, 14 KOs) is set to make the first defense of his WBO Junior Light Flyweight Title against Filipino Olympian and former title challenger Mark Anthony “Baby Boy” Barriga (11-1, 2 KOs) in a 12-round main event on Friday, June 24.

The fight, which is presented in association with Tuto Zavala Jr.’s All Star Boxing, Inc., will take place at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida and headlines a night of action that will be streamed globally on ProBox TV.

Ticket and undercard information for the event will be announced shortly.

Gonzalez is a slick southpaw who made his pro debut in April 2011. Since then, he’s faced some of the top fighters at 112 pounds, including former champions Giovani “El Guerrero Azteca” Segura and Kosei Tanaka. However, “La Bomba” decided to move down to 108 pounds in 2020, a division in which he has had much more success. Indeed, after obtaining two impressive victories in a row, Gonzalez upset Elwin “La Pulga” Soto to capture the WBO Junior Flyweight Title in October 2021. The Puerto Rican champion is now ready to defend his title for the first time in what will be his debut on the ProBox TV platform.

“I’m ready to kick off a dominant reign as world champion by making the first defense of my title,” said Gonzalez. “Elwin Soto learned that I’m not somebody you should underestimate, so I hope Mark Anthony Barriga is training as hard as possible because I’m coming with everything on June 24. This is my division. Nobody is going to beat me at 108 pounds. I look forward to an exciting night for the fans and to leaving the ring with my hand raised in victory.”

Barriga is a 28-year-old contender who represented the Philippines at the 2012 Olympics in London. After continuing his amateur career for a few more years, the explosive southpaw turned professional in 2016 and eventually captured the WBO International Junior Flyweight Championship in 2018. Barriga then had his first world title opportunity against Carlos Licona for the IBF 108-pound title. The fight was close and ended in a split decision loss for Barriga, who bounced back with two victories in his home country. Barriga understands the importance of this new opportunity, and he is ready for war on June 24.

“I have fought in the Olympics, for a world title, and was ranked No. 1 in the world, but this is the most important fight of my career,” said Barriga. “La Bomba is a world champion for a reason. He is a great opponent, and this is going to be an exciting fight. I am so thankful to my management One Above Sports Consultancy and Dejan Zavec for making this happen with a fantastic promoter All Star Boxing, Tuto, and Ruben. Thank you, Pro Box TV, for showing this around the world, especially for my country people in the Philippines.”

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ABOUT PROBOX TV
ProBox TV is the first and only global sports streaming and media company dedicated exclusively to the sport of professional boxing. Founded by former CEO of Iron Mike Productions Garry Jonas in partnership with the legendary Roy Jones Jr., Juan Manuel Marquez, Antonio Tarver, and Paulie Malignaggi, ProBox TV’s mission is to deliver real boxing fans an improved experience when watching and following the sport—all for the nominal monthly price of $1.99. Download the ProBox TV app or visit www.ProBoxTV.com to learn more. Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and Reddit.

 Miami, Florida – Eric Tudor (3-0 3 KOs) looks to keep his perfect record intact when he takes on Donte Stubbs (6-4) in his first bout scheduled for six rounds. 

The fight takes place on the Angel “Tito” Acosta-Janel Rivera undercard in Indio, Calif. The card is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and will be streamed by DAZN. 

The 2020 Romanian Olympian made his pro debut in February, when he stopped Dalton Duncan in the one round. He has followed that victory up with two more knockout wins. 

Stubbs is expected to be his toughest opponent at this point in his young career and Tudor hopes to show more of his skills for the Southern California fight fans that will be in attendance. 

“I can’t wait to get back in the ring. My manager has kept me busy this year and this is a big opportunity for me to be on the undercard of a former champion like Tito Acosta,” said Tudor. 

“The plan is to pickup another victory and keep moving forward in my career. The goal is to become a world champion and these are the steps I need to take to accomplish my goal.”

If all goes well, Tudor plans on returning early in the summer. His manager Luis Molina, who also guides the career of former title challenger Sullivan Barrera, would like to see his fighter get in the ring at least four more times this year. 

LOS ANGELES, CA (May 3, 2022) – The highly anticipated Creator Clash boxing event, taking place May 14, 2022, at the Yuengling Center in Tampa, Florida, just added two additional professional boxing bouts. Radivoje “Hot Rod” Kalajdzic (26-2, 18 KOs) and Ernest Amuzu (26-6, 22 KOs) will square off in a 10-round light heavyweight contest, as well as Fabian Lopez (5-0, 3 KOs) vs. Rufino Lewis (1-1, 1 KO), who will go toe-to-toe in a 6-round super middleweight clash.

Kalajdzic vs. Amuzu and Lopez vs. Lewis will stream live on iDubbbz YouTube channel, which has an astounding 7.76 million subscribers. The bouts will go live at 5:00 pm ET, as a special treat for fans before the Creator Clash PPV fights start at 6:00 pm.

“This is a great opportunity for these professional fighters to showcase their skills to a broader audience,” said promoter iDubbbz, who will be fighting Doctor Mike in the main event. “We wanted to show support to the pro boxing community by giving Kalajdzic, Amuzu, Lopez and Lewis a platform to get our fans pumped up for the PPV fights. I believe these guys are going to set the tone for a great night of boxing and I’m happy that my subscribers will be watching these guys go to war.”

The entire 11-bout card will be sanctioned by the Florida State Athletic Commission, with all net profits going to charity. In total, the creators fighting at the event have altogether over 22 billion lifetime views and over 131 million followers.

Tickets for the event, which is produced by iDubbbz in collaboration with co-creator Mike Leanardi and Real Good Touring, are on sale now and can be purchased at The Creator Clash website. Creator Clash will also stream live worldwide and can be purchased on Moment House.

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For TICKETS and to learn more, please visit www.thecreatorclash.com.

Twitter: @thecreatorclash
Instagram: @thecreatorclash
EPK: HERE

BOSTON (May 3, 2022) – Promising prospects Michael Fontanez and Anthony Cefalo will be making their professional debuts May 14th on the “Mayhem at Mosley’s” card, presented by Vertex Promotions, Moseley’s On The Charles in Dedham.

Fontanez has fought at the national level as an amateur, while Cefalo experienced a more modest amateur career.

The 26-year-old Fontanez, fighting out of Nashua, NH, is a 2-time New England Golden Gloves Champion who has been nationally ranked in the top 10 for several years.

“My pro debut has been a long time coming,” Fontanez said. “This is the perfect time for me. I’ve been ready for two years, but I needed more experience and was chasing a national title before I was going pro. I was supposed to fight in last December’s USA Boxing National Championships, but I got COVID, and I took that as a sigh from God to go pro. Everything is good. No more waiting.”

Fontanez drives 45-minutes to an hour to training with Alex Rivera in Somerville (MA). The travel is simply part of the process for Fontanez.

“I need to train with the best to be the best, and that’s with Alex. I was at a training camp sparring with Rashidi Ellis (23-0 world rated welterweight) and training with Alex was my next step. I bonded with Alex. I know where I’m at and I’m getting great work. He’s a coach who works with us and drinks purple juice.

“I know I need to stay calm in my pro debut fighting in front of fans, friends, and family. My national experiences will help me to focus. It’s like glorified sparring but precious and that’s what diamonds are made from. There will be minimal pressure, but the pressure on myself to win. I’ve trained for this, and I’m being moved right.”

Fontanez will face and middleweight to be determined in a 4-round bout.

On the other hand, unlike decorated amateur Fontanez, Cefalo doesn’t have elite amateur experience and accomplishments. He was, however, the New England Golden Gloves Champion as a novice in 2019, fighting out of South Boston.

“I’ve been at this a long time, working hard in the gym and giving good sparring,” the 26-year-old Cefalo commented. “I did take a hiatus from boxing during COVID. I’ll keep my head in this pro debut. I’ll be fueled by the crowd. My coach will be there keeping me together.

“I’ll be excited and a little nervous. I just need to do what we’ve been working on in the gym. The anticipation of my pro debut is going the way as planned.”

Cefalo is matched against super lightweight Brandon Grimmett (0-7), of North Carolina.

The headliner is undefeated James “The Slim Reaper” Perella (10-0, 7 KOs), fighting out of Mansfield, Massachusetts, against Argentinian challenger Rogue Augustine Junco (`10-10-1, 6 KOs) in the 8-round main event. A decorated amateur boxer, Perella was a 4-time USA New England Championships and 4-time New England Golden Gloves Champion.

Boston’s enthusiastic Irish boxing fans will once again be supporting Galway light heavyweight Tommy “The Kid” O’Toole” (3-0, 2 KOs) in the 6-round co-featured event vs. Mexican Joshue Obando (20-33-2, 15 KOs). O’Toole was a 2019 Irish Elite Championship gold medalist.

The grandson of Marvelous Marvin Hagler, James Hagler, Jr. (2-1, 1 KO), will make his Massachusetts debut in a 4-round super middleweight bout against Brazilian Heitor Mangaravitte Senra in his pro debut.

Also fighting on the undercard in 6-round bouts is Dorchester (MA) featherweight Troy Anderson, Jr. (4-0, 2 KOs), a 2016 Rocky Marciano Tournament champion, vs. Michael Gaxiola (4-33), Southbridge (MA) super featherweight Alex Rivera (3-0, 2 KOs) vs. William Parra Smith (3-10-1, 3 KOs), and South Boston welterweight Joe Farina (7-1, 4 KOs) vs. Rakim Johnson (6-16-1, 5 KOs).

Card subject to change.

Tickets are on sale for $140.00 (row 2 ringside), $75.00 (general admission) and $50.00 (standing room), available for purchase online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mayhem-at-moseleys-51422-tickets-318776066797?aff=ebdssbdestsearch, or by contacting any of the competing fighters to purchase tickets.

Doors will open at 6:30 pm. ET with the first bout scheduled to start at 7:30 p.m. ET.

Las Vegas – UFC^® returns to Austin, Texas for the first time since 2018 to hold its first event in the brand-new Moody Center. Headlining the event will be a featherweight matchup sure to deliver fireworks as No. 4 ranked contender Calvin Kattar takes on No.7 ranked Josh Emmett. Also on the card, respected veteran Tim Means battles fan favoriteKevin Holland. 

UFC^® FIGHT NIGHT: KATTAR vs EMMETT will take place Saturday, June 18 at Moody Center in Austin, Texas. The prelims will start at 4 p.m. ET/ 1 p.m. PT on ESPN2 and ESPN+, followed by the main card at 7 p.m. ET/ 4 p.m. PT on ESPN and ESPN+.

UFC^® FIGHT NIGHT: KATTAR vs EMMETT tickets will go on sale Friday, May 6 at 10 a.m. CT and are available for purchase at ticketmaster.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. UFC Fight Club^® members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets Wednesday, May 4 at 10 a.m. CT via the website www.ufcfightclub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thursday May 5 starting at 10 a.m. CT. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

Kattar (23-5, fighting out of Boston, Mass.) aims to continue his resurgence up the featherweight ranks by taking out another formidable test. A tough striker with the majority of his UFC wins coming via KO, Kattar proved himself among the elite in the division with notable victories over Jeremy Stephens, Ricardo Lamas and Shane Burgos. He now has his sights set on delivering another statement performance in his fourth consecutive UFC main event.

Knockout artist Emmett (17-2, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif.) looks to notch the biggest victory of his UFC career and break into the Top 5 for the first time. Currently on the longest win streak of his UFC tenure, Emmett has delighted fans with incredible finishes over Mirsad Bektic, Michael Johnson and Ricardo Lamas. He now seeks to become the first person to knock out Kattar and insert himself into the title conversation.

Highly regarded veteran Means (32-12-1, 1 NC, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.) has been exciting UFC fans since his debut in 2012. A well-rounded athlete who is dangerous wherever the fight goes, Means is riding the second-longest win streak of his UFC career, which includes victories over Laureano Staropoli, Mike Perry and Nicolas Dalby. He now intends to steal the show by stopping Holland in the Lone Star State.

Texas’ own Holland (22-7, 1 NC, fighting out of Fort Worth, Texas) has cemented himself as one of the most entertaining athletes on the roster, both for his fighting style and his captivating personality. A veteran of Dana White’s Contender Series, Holland has competed at both middleweight and welterweight, securing notable wins over “Jacare” Souza, Joaquin Buckley and Alex Oliveira. He now plans to put on a show for his fans in his first UFC fight in his home state.

Additional bouts on the card include:

• Welterweight action sees veteran Court McGee (22-10, fighting out of Orem, Utah) face off with Jeremiah Wells (10-2, 1 NC, fighting out of Philadelphia, Pa.)
• KO artist Joaquin Buckley (14-4, fighting out of St. Louis, Mo.) returns to action against Albert Duraev (15-3, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev. by way of Grozny, Russia) at middleweight
• Dana White’s Contender Series signee Jasmine Jasudavicious (7-1, fighting out of Ontario, Canada) goes for her second UFC win when she takes on the debuting Natalia Silva (12-5-1, fighting out of Novo Eldorado, Minas Gerais, Brazil)
• Damir Ismagulov (23-1, fighting out of Orenurgskaia, Russia) meets Guram Kutateladze (12-2, fighting out of Stockholm, Sweden by way of Tbilisi, Georgia) in a lightweight bout
• Maria Oliveira (12-5, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) aims to secure her first UFC victory when she battles Gloria de Paula (6-4, fighting out of Sao Paulo, Brazil)
• Bantamweight veteran Eddie Wineland (24-15-1, fighting out of Chesterton, Ind.) aims to make a statement against Cody Stamann (19-5-1, fighting out of Sparta, Mich.)
• An exciting middleweight bout sees Roman Dolidze (9-1, fighting out of Batumi, Georgia) lock horns with Kyle Daukaus (11-2, 1 NC, fighting out of Philadelphia, Pa.)
• Phil Hawes (11-3, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.) plans to return to his winning ways against Deron Winn (7-2, fighting out of Gilroy, Calif.)
• Fan favorite Julian Marquez (9-2, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) seeks to earn another notable win when he meets Gregory Rodrigues (11-4, fighting out of Deerfield Beach, Fla. by way of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)

Visit the UFC.com for information and content to support your UFC coverage. Please click here to apply for the event.

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About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 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 Moody Center

Moody Center will provide the nation’s 11th largest city with a premier venue to host the biggest artists and acts on the planet. Designed specifically for concerts, the new arena replaces the 45-year-old Frank C. Erwin Jr. Center at The University of Texas and is home to The University of Texas Women’s and Men’s basketball games, family shows, and other sporting and community events. Moody Center is the first of its kind in the industry with an unrivaled partnership between Oak View Group, Live Nation/C3 Presents, The University of Texas at Austin and Minister of Culture, Matthew McConaughey.

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 21.3 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).

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.

Joe Cordina will challenge Kenichi Ogawa for the IBF Super-Featherweight World Title at the Motorpoint Arena Cardiff on Saturday June 4, live worldwide on DAZN (excluding Australia and New Zealand).

Welshman Cordina (14-0, 8 KOs), a former British and Commonwealth Champion at Lightweight, dropped down in weight to Super-Featherweight after handing his compatriot Gavin Gwynne a first loss at The O2 in London in August 2019. 

‘The Welsh Wizard’ captured the WBA Continental 130lbs Title against Mexico’s Mario Enrique Tinoco at the Casino de Monte-Carlo in November 2019 before suffering a hand injury that kept him out of the ring throughout 2020.

Determined to make up for lost time, the now 30-year-old stacked up three wins in an active 2021 – including a stunning first round knockout victory over Chicago’s Joshua Hernandez at Matchroom Fight Camp in the summer – and now sits at No.3 at Super-Featherweight with the IBF. 

Japan’s Ogawa (26-1-1, 18 KOs) claimed the vacant red and gold 130lbs World Title by overpowering the dangerous Azinga Fuzile in a wide points decision at the Hulu Theater in Madison Square Garden, New York, last November, dropping the South African in rounds five and twelve.  

The 34-year-old from Tokyo is on the hunt for unification fights and represents a sizable step up in class for Rio 2016 Olympian Cordina, having only tasted defeat once in 29 professional bouts – a stoppage loss at the hands of Yuki Miyoshia at Korakuen Hall back in August 2012.

On the undercard, Manchester’s Zelfa Barrett (27-1, 16 KOs), who is ranked at No.2 with the IBF, looks to build on his impressive win over Australia’s Bruno Tarimo on the Parker vs. Chisora 2 undercard when he challenges European Super-Featherweight Champion Faroukh Kourbanov (19-3, 3 KOs) – a former opponent of Cordina. 

“I’ve dedicated my entire life to boxing and to putting myself in this position,” said Cordina. “Now it all comes down to this opportunity, my World Title shot.

“It’s a lifelong dream of mine to become a World Champion and a stepping stone to securing my family’s future and making all of the times missed with them worth it.

“I’ll be taking this opportunity with both hands; I’m prepared to do whatever it takes to win and be crowned the new IBF World Super-Featherweight Champion. Be ready to see the best Joe Cordina come fight night as I put my name at the top of the division.”

“First of all, I want to thank Mr. Eddie Hearn for this opportunity,” said Ogawa. “Hello to Team Cordina. I am disappointed that I could not attend the launch press conference but I’m looking forward to fighting in Cardiff. Let’s be in our best shape for this fight. But I will be the one to win this fight. See you in a month.”

“This is it for Joe Cordina – the opportunity of a lifetime and his moment of truth,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “Joe has an opportunity to become World Champion in his home city and put himself up there with the greats. Ogawa is huge step up, big, strong and proven as an elite fighter. Victory for both men sets up huge unification opportunities – we expect an incredible atmosphere in Cardiff and a great show on June 4.”

“What a brilliant fight this will be,” said Ed Breeze, EVP Rights at DAZN. “Joe Cordina has been rightly tipped by many as a future World Champion and this will be his time to prove it against a very game opponent in Kenichi Ogawa. We are set for a classic in front of a raucous crowd, and you can see it live and worldwide on DAZN on June 4.”

Tickets for Ogawa vs. Cordina are priced £40, £60, £120 and £250 (VIP).

Matchroom Fight Pass members will be able to purchase tickets from midday on Thursday May 5. Priority ticket info has been emailed directly to eligible members.

General Sale tickets can be purchased via StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk) and via the Motorpoint Arena Cardiff (www.ticketmaster.co.uk) from midday on Friday May 6.