LAS VEGAS (April 25, 2022) — Middleweight contender Janibek “Qazaq Style” Alimkhanuly has been anxiously waiting for the main event spotlight, and on Saturday, May 21, he’ll hope to seize it. Alimkhanuly will face undefeated Englishman Danny Dignum in a 12-round showdown for the vacant WBO Interim middleweight world title at Resorts World Event Center at Resorts World Las Vegas.

In the co-feature, former junior world champion Jamel “Semper Fi” Herring returns to the lightweight division in a 10-rounder against undefeated NABF titleholder Jamaine “The Technician” Ortiz.

Alimkhanuly-Dignum, and Herring-Ortiz will air live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+.

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets starting at $25 go on sale Tuesday, April 26 at 10 a.m. PT, and can be purchased at Etix.com.

“Janibek is a special talent, one of the very best to come from Eastern Europe in recent years,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “He’s getting the platform he deserves — a Las Vegas main event on ESPN — and I expect him to look sensational against a tough Englishman like Danny Dignum. Janibek has everything it takes to reign as middleweight world champion for a very long time.”

Alimkhanuly (11-0, 7 KOs) is a 2016 Olympian who has been on the fast track to a world title shot ever since knocking out 50-fight veteran Milton Nuñez in his pro debut. The Kazakh southpaw then racked up eight additional wins before scoring eighth-round stoppages over former world champions Rob Brant and Hassan N’Dam. Despite only 11 fights, Alimkhanuly has become an actively avoided fighter within his division, as several recognizable names at 160 pounds chose other options when opportunity knocked. With this shot at the interim title, he’ll finally get his chance on the main event stage.

Alimkhanuly said, “Demetrius Andrade and Jaime Munguia avoided fighting me, so I give Danny Dignum a lot of credit for stepping up to the plate. I will show the entire world true ‘Qazaq Style’ on May 21, and I will leave the ring as the WBO Interim middleweight champion. While the division’s top names are avoiding me, they won’t be able to run forever. I can’t wait to put on a spectacular showing at Resorts World Las Vegas.”

Dignum (14-0-1, 8 KOs) spent the better part of his amateur career at light heavyweight. In fact, the Essex, England, native had never made the 160-pound limit until November 2019, when he scored a fifth-round TKO over Conrad Cummings to snatch the WBO European crown. Dignum has made three defenses of his regional title, one of which ended in a split draw against Andrey Sirotkin. In February, he knocked down Grant Dennis three times en route to a sixth-round stoppage victory. Dignum will enter the ring with a height and size advantage in this all-southpaw battle.

Dignum said, “I am absolutely buzzing to be fighting Janibek for the WBO Interim middleweight world title. It’s a dream come true to be headlining a show in Las Vegas. All the sacrifice over the years has been worth it to get to this point. I’m very confident in my ability and will be coming to Resorts World to win that title.”

Herring (23-3, 11 KOs), a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and 2012 U.S. Olympian, began his pro career with a somewhat difficult run at 135 pounds. However, after signing with Top Rank and dropping down to junior lightweight, he revitalized his career with an impressive knockout over Juan Pablo Sanchez on the undercard of Jorge Linares-Vasiliy Lomachenko. Herring only needed two additional fights before upsetting Masayuki Ito for the WBO 130-pound crown. Herring made three tough defenses against Lamont Roach Jr., Jonathan Oquendo and Carl Frampton before losing his belt to Shakur Stevenson in October 2021. With this championship experience under his belt, Herring is ready to give it another go at 135 pounds.

Herring said, “I’m happy to be back, starting the new year with a fresh start. A lot has changed since I was last in the ring. I am working with a new trainer, Manny Robles, and returning to the lightweight division for this upcoming fight. I’m optimistic that a victory here will place me back in the title picture at either lightweight or junior lightweight.”

Ortiz (15-0-1, 8 KOs) is a quick-handed boxer whose only blemish is a majority draw against then-undefeated prospect Joseph Adorno. The 25-year-old demonstrated speed and volume punching in that fight, qualities that helped him obtain a unanimous decision win over Nahir Albright back in February to capture the NABF crown. This will be a considerable step up in opposition for Ortiz, who will have his second shot at fighting on a Top Rank on ESPN card.

Ortiz said, “Jamel Herring is a tremendous fighter with an impeccable resume, and I have all the respect in the world for what he’s accomplished, but on May 21, he’s stepping into my ring in my weight class, and I will show him – and the entire world – why I’m the future at 135 pounds. What you saw in February against Nahir Albright is simply a preview of what’s to come. We’ve only scratched the surface. I’m looking forward to adding more titles to my own resume as I climb the ladder in 2022.”
 # # #
About Resorts World Las Vegas
Resorts World Las Vegas was developed by Genting Berhad, a publicly traded Malaysian corporation registered with the Nevada Gaming Commission. The company has affiliated operations in the Americas, Malaysia, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the Bahamas. In partnership with Hilton, Resorts World Las Vegas integrates three of Hilton’s premium brands into its resort campus, including Las Vegas Hilton, the resort’s full-service brand; Conrad Las Vegas, Hilton’s lifestyle luxury brand; and LXR, Hilton’s network of independent luxury properties, which operates as Crockfords Las Vegas, Genting’s internationally renowned ultra-luxury brand. Resorts World Las Vegas features 3,506 guest rooms and suites, an innovative, next-generation gaming floor, world-class food and beverage options, a 5,000-capacity theatre, distinct nightlife venues, a curated retail collection of designer and boutique shops and more. The integrated resort weaves time-honored traditions of the international Resorts World brand into the fabric of Las Vegas, introducing a bold, fresh take on hospitality to the city with stunning design, progressive technology and world-class guest service. Resorts World Las Vegas is?Sharecare Health Security VERIFIED™?with?Forbes Travel Guide,?a verification that ensures the resort has appropriate health safety procedures in place.?For?more information, visit?rwlasvegas.com?or find us on?Facebook,?LinkedIn,?Twitter?and?Instagram.

About Genting Group
Genting Group comprises Genting Berhad (KLSE: GENTING), the holding company, and its listed companies Genting Malaysia Berhad (KLSE: GENM), Genting Plantations Berhad (KLSE: GENP) and Genting Singapore Limited (SGX: G13). Genting Group is involved in leisure and hospitality, power generation, oil and gas, property development, life sciences and biotechnology activities, with operations spanning across the globe, including in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, India, China, the United States of America, Bahamas and the United Kingdom. Genting Group is a leader in the global gaming and hospitality industry. Founded in 1965, Genting Group has more than 50 years of experience in developing and operating destination resorts in the Americas, Malaysia, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the Bahamas, offering an unparalleled resort experience and iconic entertainment attractions to over 50 million visitors a year. For more information, visit?www.genting.com. 

Tyson Fury retained the WBC Heavyweight championship with an one=punch sixth round stoppage over Dillian Whyte in front of 94,000 fans at Wembley Stadium in London.

In round four, Whyte was cut over his right eye from a headbutt. There was a lot of grappling and both guys had trouble setting a pace.

That all changed in round six as Fury landed a monstrous right uppercut to the chin that knocked Whyte flat on his back. Whyte got to his feet, but wobbled all over the ring and the fight was 2:59.

Fury is now 32-0-1 with 23 knockouts. Whyte is now 28-3.

Fury said, “I’m overwhelmed with the support. I can’t believe that my 94,000 countrymen and women have come here tonight to see my perform. I just want to say from the bottom of my heart, thank you so much to every single person who bought a ticket here tonight or stayed up late to watch it on TV.
 
“Dillian Whyte is a warrior. And I believe that Dillian will be a world champion. But tonight, he met a great in the sport. I’m one of the greatest heavyweights of all time. And unfortunately for Dillian Whyte, he had to face me here tonight. There’s no disgrace. He’s a tough, game man. He’s as strong as a bull. He’s got the heart of a lion. But you’re not messing with a mediocre heavyweight. You’re messing with the best man on the planet. And you saw that tonight with what happened.
 
“I think Lennox Lewis could even be proud of the right uppercut tonight.”

Essuman Decisions Tetley

Ekow Essuman scored a 12-round unanimous decision over Darren Tetley in a welterweight bout.

Essuman landed 215 of 795 punches; Tetley was 144 of 691.

Essuman win by scores of 117-111 and 116-112 twice and is now 17-0. Tetley is 21-3.

Nick Ball Stops Isaac Lowe in 6

Nick Ball remained undefeated by stopping Tyson Fury-stablemate Isaac Lowe in round six of a 10-round featherweight bout.

In round two, Ball dropped Lowe with a big left hook. In round three, Ball was bleeding from the nose. In round four, Lowe was bleeding badly from his left eye.

In round six, with Lowe turned around, Ball drilled Lowe with two hard lefts and the bout was stopped at 1:45

Ball is 15-0 with eight knockouts. Lowe is 21-2-3.

Adeleye stops Healey in 4

David Adeleye stopped Chris Healey in round four of a scheduled eight-round heavyweight bout.

In round four, Adeleye landed a hard left and a big right that forced a referee stoppage at 52 seconds.

Adeleye, 232 lbs of London is 9-0 with eight knockouts. Healey, 282 lbs of England is 9-9.

Tommy Fury defeated Daniel Bocianski via six-round decision in a light heavyweight bout.

In round five, Bocianski was cut over the left eye. Later in the round, Fury landed a big right that put Bocianski on the canvas.

Fury landed 80 of 255 punches; Bocianski was 20 of 159.

Fury, 177 lbs of Manchester, ENG won by a 60-54 score and is now 8-0. Bocianski, 175 lbs of Poland is 10-2.

Karol Itauma remained undefeated with a second round stoppage over Michael Ciach in a scheduled four-round light heavyweight bout.

In round one, Itauma sent Ciach to the canvas with a hard flurry on the ropes. In round two, Ituma dropped Ciach with an overhand left and the fight was stopped.

Itaima, 175 lbs of Kent, ENG is now 7-0 with five knockouts. Ciach, 175 lbs of Poland is 2-12.

Royston Barney-Smith remained perfect with a four-round decision over Constantin Radoi in a super featherweight bout.

Barney-Smith, 132 lbs of Southampton, ENG won by a 40-36 tally and is now 2-0. Radoi, 132 lbs of Swinton, ENG is 0-11.

Kurt Walker remained undefeated with a four-round decision over Stefan Nicolae in a junior lightweight bout.

Walker of Lisburn, Northern Ireland won by a 40-35 score and is now 2-0. Nicolae is 3-32-2.

ONTARIO, CA (April 22, 2022): Former world champion and light heavyweight Mexican boxing star Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramírez (43-0, 29 KOs) of Mazatlán, Mexico, will face former WBA Interim Light Heavyweight World Champion Dominic Boesel (32-2, 12 KOs) of Freyburg, Germany on Saturday, May 14. The 12-round fight will pit the WBA #1 ranked, Boesel against the #2 WBA ranked Ramirez in a winner takes all event that will propel the winner to the door of a world championship fight. The co-main event will feature one of the most exciting Mexican boxers in the lightweight division, the undefeated 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 fight. The event will take place at Toyota Arena in Ontario, CA, and will stream live exclusively on DAZN.

“I’m excited to be fighting back in California,” said Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramírez. “May 14 is not too far away, and I feel great about how everything is going. I know Dominic is the best light heavyweight from Germany, and he’ll bring his best. This is a good step towards my overall goal, and I’m glad I’ll be able to put on a great show come fight night.”

“I’m looking forward to going to California for a great fight against a tough opponent in ‘Zurdo’ Ramirez,” said Dominic Boesel. “I’m sure this fight will please the boxing fans worldwide watching live on DAZN.”

After spectacular back-to-back knockout victories over Cuba’s Sullivan Barrera in July 2021 and Yunieski “El Monstro” Gonzalez in December 2021, Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez is knocking on the door of a world championship title shot when he faces #1 WBA ranked Dominic Boesel. ‘Zurdo’ is committed to continuing his winning and knockout streaks as he proves that he is an elite, feared fighter in the light heavyweight division. Having previously held the WBO Super Middleweight World Championship, ‘Zurdo’ is ready to conquer another weight class on his road to glory.

Ranked #1 by the WBA and #5 by the WBC in the light heavyweight division, Dominic Boesel formerly held the WBA Interim Heavyweight World Championship in 2020 and currently holds the IBO World Light Heavyweight Title. The German fighter is set to make his U.S. debut on May 14 and is determined to make a good showing for the passionate SoCal boxing fans. Defeating ‘Zurdo’ will cement his standing in the world rankings, putting him closer to another world title shot. Having faced previous undefeated fighters like Sami Enborn and Tony Averlant and winning multiple regional titles like the WBA Continental Light Heavyweight Title and WBO Continental Light Heavyweight Title, Boesel is ready to prove he is the best at 175lbs.

Tickets for Zurdo vs Boesel go on sale Friday, April 22 at 10:00 a.m. PT 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 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

TOYOTA ARENA
Toyota Arena, located in Southern California, built and owned by the City of Ontario, managed by SMG Worldwide, continues to win awards for the best entertainment venue in the region. The 225,000 square foot venue can accommodate capacities up to 11,000 for concerts, family shows, and sporting competitions. The arena features 36 luxury suites located on two levels and a continuous concourse hosting a variety of refreshment stands, merchandise kiosks, a VIP club and other fan amenities. Toyota Arena is proud to be recognized for cleaning and disinfecting to a higher standard to keep our space clean and safe for occupancy with a GBAC Star Accreditation. Toyota Arena hosts a variety of sporting competitions, concerts, family shows, special events, graduation ceremonies and community activities as well as private events. The Arena is home to Ontario Reign, an AHL Hockey Team, and Ontario Fury, a MASL Soccer Team and the Aqua Caliente Clippers of Ontario, a G league basketball team. Toyota Arena is the biggest and most modern arena within the region, an area with over 4.7 million people. It is located in the City of Ontario, California, on a 37-acre parcel located between Haven Avenue and Milliken Avenue, Fourth Street and the I-10 Freeway. For more information visit Toyota-Arena.com

•  Tyson Fury 264.8 vs. Dillian Whyte 253 1/4
(Fury’s WBC/Lineal/Ring Magazine Heavyweight Titles — 12 Rounds)
Judges: Guido Cavalleri, Juan Carlos Pelayo and Robert Tapper
Referee: Mark Lyson

•   Ekow Essuman 146.5 lbs vs. Darren Tetley 145 3/4 lbs 
(Essuman’s Commonwealth, British and IBF European Welterweight Titles — 12 Rounds)

•   Isaac Lowe 125 1/4 lbs vs. Nick Ball 125.5 lbs 
(Vacant WBC Silver Featherweight Title — 10 Rounds)

•   David Adeleye 232.4 lbs vs. Chris Healey 282 lbs 
(Heavyweight — 8 Rounds)

•   Tommy Fury 177 3/4 lbs vs. Daniel Bocianski 175 lbs 
(Light Heavyweight — 6 Rounds)

(ESPN+, 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT)

   •    Karol Itauma 175 3/4 lbs vs. Michael Ciach 175 3/4 lbs
 (Light Heavyweight — 4 Rounds)

   •    Royston Barney-Smith 132 lbs vs. Constantin Radoi 132 lbs
 (Junior Lightweight — 4 Rounds)

(OFF-TV, 12:45 p.m. ET/9:45 a.m. PT)

   •       Kurt Walker 129 lbs vs. Stefan Nicolae 127.4 lbs
 (Junior Lightweight — 4 Rounds)

FULL LINE UP
James Perkins, Lynn, MA.vs. Stephen Langlais, Acushnet, MA.6 Rounds, Super Middleweights
Kris Jacobs, Fall River, MA.vs. Ryan Clark, Berwick, ME.6 Rounds, Welterweights
Kevin Walsh, Brockton, MA.vs. Braulio Avila, Big Bear Lake, CA.4 Rounds, Lightweights
Rico Depaolis, Watertown, MA.vs. Stephen Stengel, Winchendon, MA.4 Rounds, Light Heavyweights
Kenny Larson, Salem, MA.vs. Jay Gregory, Auburn, NY.4 Rounds, Welterweights
Kyle Cusick, Fall River, MA.vs. Tony Andreozzi, Swansea, MA.4 Rounds, Middleweights
Fernanda Araujo, Stoneham, MA.vs. Liz Humphries, Springfield, MA.4 Rounds, Junior Welterweights
Andrew Perez, Lawrence, MA.vs. Bruce Richards, Montpelier, VT.4 Rounds, Super Middleweights
Perkins vs. Langlais takes place April 22nd at the Castleton in Windham, New Hampshire. Limited tickets remain and are available at www.boxingnh.com. The event will stream live on WWW.COMBATSPORTSNOW. for 19.99.
ABOUT BOSTON BOXING PROMOTIONS
Boston Boxing Promotions was founded in 2013 and is dedicated to the resurgence of professional boxing at the regional level, particularly in the New England area. Since that time, it has presented professional boxing events in places like Boston, Cape Cod, New Bedford and New Hampshire. In 2020, Boston Boxing Promotions was the first independent boxing promoter on the east coast to hold an event during the pandemic. The event led to a popular series of empty venue shows broadcast live and for free on YouTube watched by thousands of fans around the world. Boston Boxing Promotions returned to live audiences with The Great American Boxing Bash this past summer which featured 3 consecutive sold out weekends at the The Castleton?in Windham, New Hampshire.
Follow Boston Boxing Promotions on Social Media!

Ivan Zucco remained undefeated with a 2nd round stoppage over Marko Nicolic in a super middleweight fight in Verbania, Italy

In round two, Zucco dropped Nikolic with a big left. Zucco finished off Nikolic with a left and the fight was stopped at 1:30.

Zucco of Verbania, ITA is 16-0 with 14 knockouts. Nikolic of Belgrade, SER is 28-2.

Natalizi Decisions Mueller

Mirko Natalizi won a 10-round unanimous decision over Rico Mueller in a super welterweight bout.

Natalizi of Roma, ITA won by scores of 99-91 and 98-92 twice and is now 12-0. Mueller of Eberswalde, GER is 28-5-1.

Grandelli Decisions Baker

Franchesco Grandelli won a 10-round unanimous decision over Kane Baker in a featherweight contest.

In round One, Grandelli dropped Baker with an overhand right hand. In round two, Baker turned to tables with a right that sent Grandelli to the canvas

In round 10, Baker was bleeding from his nose.

Grandelli of Italy won by scores of 98-90 twice and 96-92 and is now 14-1-2. Baker of Birmingham, ENG is 17-9-1.

Nmomah Decisions El Massoudi

Samuel Nmomah won a eight-round unanimous decision over Fouad El Massoudi in a super welterweight bout.

With Nmomah battering El Massoudi, the referee administered a standing eight-round in round five.

Nmomah of Italy won by scores of 78-73 twice and 79-72 and is 17-0. El Massoudi of Lyon, FRA is 17-18-1.

Paul Butler won the WBO Interim Bantamweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Jonas Sultan in Liverpool, England.

But was originally supposed to take on John Riel Casimero, but Casimero was ruled out of the fight due to Casimero’s use of a sauna.

Butler won by scores of 116-112, 118-110 and 117-111.

Butler, 117.8 lbs of Liverpool, ENG won by scores of and is now a two-time world champion with a record of 34-2. Sultan, 117.6 lbs of Philippines is 18-6.

The new champion said: “It’s unbelievable, what a feeling!

“I have waited a long time to be a two-time world champion.

“It’s been a long journey and we only had 48 hours to come up with a gameplan for Sultan but that’s what I can do.  I nullified the bull tonight.”

McGrail Stops Lopez in 4

Peter McGrail remained undefeated with a fourth round stoppage over Uriel Lopez in a scheduled eight-round featherweight bout.

In round four, McGrail dropped Lopez and the bout was stopped.

McGrail, 124.4 lbs of Liverpool, ENG is 4-0 with two knockouts. Lopez, 124 lbs of Mexico is 15-18-1.

McGrail, now 4-0, said: “I am going to keep getting better and better.

“And hopefully, in the future, there will be some big nights coming to Liverpool.  We’re the next stock coming through, and we will be bringing world titles back to this city.”

Meneses Shocks Maxwell in Scoring 9th Round stoppage

Alejandro Meneses scored a stunning ninth round stoppage over previously undefeated Sam Maxwell in round nine of their 10-round super lightweight bout.

In round four, Meneses dropped Maxwell with a big right.

After battering Maxwell for the better parts of rounds seven and eight, Meneses dropped Maxwell with a hard right in round nine. Meneses continued his assault until the bout was stopped at 2:39.

Meneses, 134.2 lbs of Mexico is 16-5 with nine knockouts. Maxwell, 136.8 lbs of Liverpool, ENG is 16-1.

Dickens Stops Gago in 5

James Dickens stopped Andoni Gago in round five of their 10-round featherweight bout.

In round three, Dickens scored a knockdown with a solid left. In round five, it was a left uppercut that sent Gago down and the fight was stopped at 2:52.

Dickens is now 31-4 with 12 knockouts. Gago, 125.2 lbs of Spain is 25-5-4.

“The next step for me is a big world title eliminator, if not a world title.

“I need a world title next.  It can be Leigh Wood or Josh Warrington, but I would prefer Leigh Wood, who I have beaten before.

“It is hard to see another man with your world title.”

Fielding Stops Laine in Three

Former world titlist Rocky Fielding stopped Timo Laine in round three of their eight-round light heavyweight bout.

Fielding landed a hard combination that forced a referee stoppage at 1:34.

Fielding is now 30-2 with 18 knockouts. Laine is 30-18.

“I had never retired; I was just sitting back with the pandemic and was concentrating on my family and kids.

“But it’s good to be back fighting and the break has done me the world of good, I’ve been boxing since the age of nine without any break.”

Frankie Stringer made a successful pro debut with a four-round decision over Simas Volosinas in a lightweight fight.

Stringer of England won by a 40-36 card and is 1-0. Volosinas of Lithuania is 7-103.

In an exciting toe-to-toe war, Mercito Gesta won a 10-round unanimous decision over Joel Diaz Jr. in a lightweight bout at the Fantasy Springs Hotel Resort in Indio, California

In round one, Gesta dropped Diaz with a right. Later in the round, Gesta landed a hard flurry that was followed up with a left that sent Diaz into the ropes for a second knockdown. In round two, Gesta was cut on the bridge of his nose.

In round six, Diaz was swelling from his let eye and bleeding from his mouth. Diaz was able to get in some good offense, but every time the fight tide seemed to be turning, Gesta would land either a hard straight left or a nice right hook. The two thrilled the crowd to the final bell.

Gesta landed 197 of 630 punches; Diaz was 172 of 613.

Gesta, 134.8 lbs of San Diego, CA won by scores of 96-92 twice and 95-93 and is now 33-3-3. Diaz, 134.6 lbs of Palmdale, CA is 26-3.

“I feel energized, knowing I have an upcoming baby that has made me want to go back in the ring,” said Mercito Gesta. “We have been trying for six years, and we are blessed with this new life. I am so happy. When they said that there is ring rust, I don’t think I have that because I have been working hard and staying in shape. Joel Diaz, Jr. is a tough fighter, and winning and having such a great performance is going to open the doors for me in the sport.”

“Mercito is a tough opponent,” said Joel Diaz, Jr. “I was giving him a lot of hard punches, but I couldn’t catch him. There is still a lot that I need to work on, focusing on landing my punches and staying patient. I was going out there looking for the kill, but that’s not always going to happen.”

Jousce Gonzalez stopped Jairo Lopez in round six, of their eight-round lightweight bout.

In round two, Gonzalez dropped Lopez with an uppercut. In round three, Gonzalez dropped a now-bloody Lopez with a combination. In round five, Gonzalez started to bleed around his right eye.

In round six, Gonzalez landed a big flurry that was punctuated by a big uppercut and the fight was stopped at 2:29.

Gonzalez, 134.4 lbs of Covina, CA is 12-0-1 with 11 knockouts. Lopez, 133.2 lbs of Apodaca, MEX is 27-15.

“I give my performance a six out of ten,” said Jousce Gonzalez. “This is my first fight back, and I know I can do better. He is a very resilient fighter, but I knew I was landing my shots and hurting him. I knew he was taking some punishment, so I wasn’t surprised when the referee waved the fight off. I am just happy to be back in the ring and want to aim to fight big names in the division.”

Manuel Flores remained undefeated with a third-round stoppage over Victor Ruiz in a scheduled eight-round super bantamweight bout.

In round three, Flores dropped Ruiz with a hard combination. Seconds later, it was a big left that sent Ruiz to the canvas. Finally it was a straight left that put Ruiz down and the fight was stopped at 2:21.

Flores, 119.4 lbs of Coachella, CA is now 12-0 with nine knockouts. Ruiz, 119.6 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 23-13.

“I am so happy to be here and fight in front of all my family and friends,” said Manuel Flores.  “I want to thank all the local fans that came out to support; it gives me much more motivation to continue fighting.”

Jan Salvatierra stopped Ernie Marquez in round two of their six-round flyweight bout.

In round two, Salvatierra dropped Marquez with a right hand. Marquez looked like he twisted his ankle and the fight was stopped at 2:26.

Salvatierra, 111.6 lbs of Cabo San Lucas, MEX is now 8-1 with four knockouts. Marquez, 110.8 lbs of Fort Morgan, CO is now 10-18-2.

“First of all I want to thank God and Golden Boy for the opportunity to fight tonight,” said Jan Salvatierra.  “We have had a great training camp, preparing since January for anything that could pop up. We trained to go the distance. I was expecting more from my opponent, hoping that his experience would bring more to the table. But unfortunately he sustained an injury and things happen for a reason. I want to be active for the rest of the year and hopefully fight for a regional title soon.”

Jorge Chavez stopped Jonathan Tejeda in round two of the scheduled four-round super featherweight fight.

In round two, Chavez dropped Tejeda with an overhand right to the side of the head, and the fight was stopped at 1:04.

Chavez, 127.8 lbs of San Diego, CA is 2-0 with two knockouts. Tejeda, 124.8 lbs of Mexico City, MEX is 0-2.

“I loved being able to fight at Fantasy Springs; all my friends and family were able to come to see me in a more intimate venue,” said Jorge Chavez. “I am happy I got the victory, but every fight is a learning experience. We will continue to grow, learn, and just get better and better every fight.” 

Las Vegas – UFC^® continues its run of shows at UFC APEX with a thrilling bantamweight contenders’ bout that will see No. 5 ranked Rob Font take on No. 8 Marlon Vera. The co-main event will see former UFC heavyweight champion Andrei Arlovski  go for his fourth consecutive win when he meets Jake Collier.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT^®: FONT vs. VERA will take place Saturday, April 30 UFC APEX in Las Vegas. The main card will be available on ESPN and ESPN Deportes, as well as simulcast in English and Spanish on ESPN+, starting at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT. The prelims will kick off on ESPN2, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 4:30 p.m. ET / 1:30 p.m. PT.

Exciting striker Font (19-5, fighting out of Woburn, Mass.) entered the bantamweight Top 5 with a three-year undefeated run beginning in 2018. During this time, he secured exciting wins against former bantamweight champion Cody Garbrandt, Marlon Moraes and Sergio Pettis. Font now aims to defend his spot in the rankings by becoming the first fighter to finish Vera.

Diverse finisher Vera (18-7-1, fighting out of Chone, Manabí, Ecuador) looks to continue his ascent up the 135-pound ladder with another show-stealing performance. Throughout his UFC run, he has earned memorable victories over former UFC lightweight champion Frankie Edgar, Davey Grant and Sean O’Malley. Vera now intends to stop Font to crack the division’s Top 5 for the first time in his career.

Arlovski (33-20 2NC, fighting out of Coconut Creek, Fla.) looks to extend his record for most wins in UFC heavyweight history to 23. A seasoned MMA veteran, he holds notable victories against former titleholders Fabricio Werdum, Frank Mir and Tim Sylvia. Arlovski now has his sights set on dispatching another rising heavyweight to earn a shot at a Top 15 ranked contender.

Collier (13-6, fighting out of Cuba, Mo.) hopes to further cement his heavyweight run by taking out his first former champion. A former UFC middleweight, he has delivered impressive wins over Chase Sherman, Gian Villante and Marcel Fortuna. Collier is now gunning for another finish at heavyweight by delivering a highlight-reel performance.

Additional bouts on the card include:

• Andre Fili (21-8 1NC, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif.) squares off with Joanderson Brito (12-3-1, fighting out of Bauru, Sao Paulo, Brazil) at featherweight
• Jared Gordon (18-4, fighting out of Queens, N.Y.) meets Grant Dawson (17-1-1, fighting out of Lee’s Summit, Mo.) in an intriguing lightweight bout
• Perennial fan favorite Darren Elkins (27-10, fighting out of Portage, Ind.) battles Tristan Connelly (14-7, fighting out of Vancouver, B.C., Canada) at featherweight
• Krzysztof Jotko (23-5, fighting out of Orneta, Poland) takes on Gerald Meerschaert (34-14, fighting out of Milwaukee, Wisc.) in a clash of middleweight veterans
• Daniel Lacerda (11-2, fighting out of Valença, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) faces Francisco Figueiredo (12-4-1 1NC, fighting out of Soure, Para, Brazil) at flyweight
• Gabe Green (10-3, fighting out of San Pedro, Calif.) meets unbeaten Dana White’s Contender Series contract winner Yohan Lainesse (8-0, fighting out of Saint-Bruno, Quebec, Canada) in a welterweight bout
• Natan Levy (6-1, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev. by way of Herzliya, Israel) and Mike Breeden (10-4, fighting Lee’s Summit, Mo.) each vie for their first UFC victory in a lightweight bout
• Gina Mazany (7-5, fighting out of Kansas City, Mo.) takes on Shanna Young (8-5, fighting out of Knoxville, Tenn.) at flyweight
• Undefeated flyweight Tatsuro Taira (10-0, fighting out of Naha, Okinawa, Japan) debuts against Dana White’s Contender Series signee Carlos Candelario (8-1, fighting out of Hartford, Conn.)

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

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About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 688 million fans and 198 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to nearly 900 million TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 75 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS^®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is owned by global entertainment, sports and content company Endeavor, and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram and TikTok: @UFC.

About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 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.

LAS VEGAS (April 21, 2022) — Lightweight Raymond “Danger” Muratalla, a Southern California dynamo with eight consecutive knockouts, is aiming for another show-stopping performance in Las Vegas. Muratalla will fight New Orleans native Jeremy Hill in an eight-rounder Saturday, April 30, on the undercard of the Oscar Valdez-Shakur Stevenson WBC/WBO junior lightweight title unification tilt at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.

Valdez-Stevenson, an eight-round lightweight co-feature between U.S. Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis and Esteban Sanchez, and Nico Ali Walsh-Alejandro Ibarra will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. Muratalla-Hill and additional undercard action will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+ at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT.

Muratalla (13-0, 11 KOs) grew up fighting in his father’s backyard boxing ring in Fontana, a well-known cultivator of talent that saw everyone from Ryan Garcia to 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas step through the ropes. After a fruitful amateur career, Muratalla turned pro in Mexico in 2016 and worked his way up the SoCal circuit before signing a long-term deal with Top Rank. In 2020, he won two fights inside the MGM Grand Las Vegas Bubble and emerged as a contender to watch in 2021. Last November, he made the most of his opportunity on the televised Terence Crawford-Shawn Porter PPV undercard, stopping Elias Araujo in five rounds. Hill (16-2, 11 KOs) won his first 14 fights before a 1-2 skid that saw him drop competitive decisions to Steven Ortiz and Nahir Albright. He kicked off his 2022 campaign with a second-round knockout over Jonathan Perez in New Orleans.

In other undercard bouts:
Junior lightweight contender Andres “Savage” Cortes (16-0, 9 KOs), a Las Vegas native who recently inked a long-term contract with Top Rank, looks to make a hometown statement versus Alexis del Bosque (18-5-1, 9 KOs) in an eight-rounder. del Bosque is 5-0-1 in his last six fights, while Cortes is coming off brutal knockout wins over Mark Bernaldez and former world title challenger Genesis Servania.

Cleveland-born lightweight sensation Abdullah Mason (1-0, 1 KO), who turned 18 years old earlier this month, goes for 2-0 in a four-rounder against Luciano Ramos (1-2). Mason made his pro debut last November as a 17-year-old, knocking out Jaylan Phillips in two rounds.

Recent U.S. Olympian Troy Isley (4-0, 2 KOs), from Alexandria, Virginia, will fight in a six-round middleweight bout against an opponent to be named. Isley has won two bouts since advancing to the Round of 16 at the Tokyo Olympics.

Rising lightweight Charlie Sheehy (2-0, 2 KOs), the Bay Area product with a pair of devastating knockouts to begin his pro career, goes for his third straight against New Orleans native Burnell Jenkins (2-1, 1 KO) in a four-rounder. Jenkins has won two fights since losing his pro debut in 2019.

Junior welterweight prospect Antoine Cobb (1-0, 1 KO), Stevenson’s close friend and training partner, returns against the upset-minded Jaylan Phillips (1-2, 1 KO) in a four-rounder. Cobb made his pro debut last October with a sensational first-round stoppage on the Stevenson-Jamel Herring undercard.
Promoted by Top Rank, tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting AXS.com.

Hialeah, FL / April 21, 2022 – When professional boxing returns to Hialeah Park for the second time this year on Saturday May 7, 2022 for Una Gran Noche de Boxeo Cubano 2, it’s not a stretch at all to say that Ulysees Diaz will be “the most interesting fighter on the card.”

Diaz is 41 years old, a veteran yet relatively inexperienced professional boxer, with only 13 pro bouts on his 12-1 (11 KOs) record dating back to his debut in January of 2017.

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to telling the tale of the Cuban-born, Miami- based cruiserweight.

Start with the fact that he grew up in Miami with the incredibly accomplished rapper and singer Pitbull. “We’re like brothers,” Diaz said. “We’ve been best friends since we were little kids.”

Add that Diaz has an incredible social media presence, including 54,300 followers of his uly_monster Instagram page, that will create significant added exposure when Hialeah Park Casino, in association with Warriors Boxing and Rivalta Boxing, presents Una Gran Noche de Boxeo Cubano 2 on May 7.

And factor in that Diaz also holds the record for the fastest knockout in all of combat sports history, a three-second one punch KO of Daniele Benedetto in a Bare Knuckles Boxing bout, and it’s easy to see why promoter Henry Rivalta is excited to have Diaz on the card.

“He’s nicknamed ‘The Monster’ for a reason,” Rivalta explained. “He’s exciting in the ring, he goes right for the knockout, and he brings a big fan base with him. We’re thrilled that he’s on the card for Una Gran Noche De Boxeo Cubano 2!”

“I’m a technical brawler,” noted Diaz. “I’m not a kid anymore, so I push myself physically to keep in shape. I don’t take any days off from training, I eat well, and I get plenty of sleep.”

Diaz will fight on the early part of the undercard of Una Gran Noche De Boxeo Cubano 2 against an opponent not yet named.

The May 7 festivities will be highlighted by two title fights, one featuring the undefeated Cuban heavyweight prospect and Mike Tyson look-alike Lenier “El Justiciero” Peró (6-0, 3 KOs) against Hector Perez (7-4, 3 KOs) for the NABO Heavyweight championship and the other pitting cruiserweight Anthony “White Chocolate” Martinez (12-1, 11 KOs) against #15 IBF contender David Light (17-0, 11 KOs) of New Zealand for the WBO International Cruiserweight title.

Before the main events on the May 7 card, Cuban super-lightweight Orestes Velazquez (3-0, 3 KOs), coming off a victory in “the fight of the night” on the January 28 card at Hialeah Park, faces former WBO champion Juan Carlos Salgado (27-9, 16 KOs), Cuban welterweight Livan Navarro (11-1, 7 KOs) returns to the ring for the first time since his only defeat to face tough Mexican veteran Silverio Ortiz (37-29, 18 KOs), and Cuban super-bantamweight Ariel Perez de la Torre (7-0, 5 KOs) risks his undefeated status against the well-experienced Lucas Baez (37-21-5, 20 KOs).

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

Alen Babic will look to keep his destructive knockout streak going when he takes on Adam Balski for the vacant WBC Silver Bridgerweight Title on the undercard of Joshua Buatsi’s huge domestic Light-Heavyweight clash with Craig Richards at The O2 in London on Saturday May 21, live worldwide on DAZN (excluding New Zealand and Australia).
 
The big-hitting Croat took six rounds to take out Frenchman David Spilmont on the undercard of Joseph Parker’s rematch with Derek Chisora last time out in December – taking ‘The Savage’s’ record to ten knockouts from ten fights since turning pro in July 2019.
 
Northampton’s WBC and IBF Super-Lightweight World Champion Chantelle Cameron (15-0, 8 KOs) defends her crowns against Argentina’s former World Champion Victoria Noelia Bustos (23-6) as she waits for a date for her huge Undisputed clash with WBA and WBO ruler Kali Reis.
 
Liverpool’s Robbie Davies Jr (22-3, 15 KOs) looks to build on his impressive stoppage win over Henry Lundy back in December when he puts his WBA Continental Super-Lightweight Title on the line against another American Javier Molina (22-4, 9 KOs).
 
Catford’s Ellie Scotney (4-0) was made to work hard as she battled past Jorgelina Guanini to earn the WBA Intercontinental Super-Bantamweight crown at the famous Alexandra Palace in February – she puts that belt on the line against Argentina’s former World Champion Maria Cecilia Roman (16-6-1).
 
Elsewhere on the card there’s action for Takeley Light-Heavyweight youngster ‘The Gentleman’ John Hedges (5-0, 1 KO), former Team GB Olympian turned Cruiserweight prospect Cheavon Clarke (1-0, 1 KO) and London Super-Lightweight talent Shiloh ‘Sugar Shy’ Defreitas (3-0, 2 KOs).

LIVERPOOL, APRIL 21 – Paul Butler and Jonas Sultan squared off for the final time ahead of their WBO interim world bantamweight title clash in Liverpool. 

Sultan has stepped in as a late replacement for John Riel Casimero to face local hero Butler at the M&S Bank Arena in the headline fight at Probellum Liverpool on Friday night. 

Sam Maxwell came face to face with Alejandro Meneses ahead of their scrap for the IBO super-lightweight title with Peter McGrail and Jazza Dickens among those who also hit the scales at the Hilton Hotel. 

The packed card will be shown live, free and exclusive on Probellum.com with the opening bout of the night due to start at 4:30pm. 

MAIN EVENT? 

WBO INTERIM WORLD BANTAMWEIGHT TITLE 

Paul Butler (33-2) 117.8lbs 

Jonas Sultan (18-5) 117.6lbs 

8 Rounds Super Bantamweight Contest? 

Peter McGrail (3-0) 124.4lbs 

Uriel Lopez (15-17-1)?124.2lbs 

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IBO WORLD SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE 

Sam Maxwell (16-0) 138.8lbs 

Alejandro Meneses (15-5) 139.2lbs 

? 
10 Rounds Featherweight Contest? 

James Dickens (30-4) 126lbs 

Andoni Gago (25-4-4) 125.2lbs 

? 
8 Rounds Super Middleweight Contest? 

Rocky Fielding (29-2) 175.4lbs 

Timo Laine (30-17) 171.4lbs 

?
4 Rounds Bantamweight Contest? 

Will Cawley (1-0) 119.6lbs 

Marius Vysniauskas (2-12) 117.6lbs 

? 
4 Rounds Super Featherweight Contest? 

Harry Kinsella (Debut) 130lbs 

Christian Narvaez (16-38-6) 131lbs 

? 
4 Rounds Super Bantamweight Contest? 

Joe McGrail (2-0) 122lbs 

Mohammed Alwarith (0-2) 121.6lbs 

4 Rounds Lightweight Contest? 

Frankie Stringer (Debut) 136lbs 

Simas Volosinas (7-102) Weighs in on day 

? 
4 Rounds Super Featherweight Contest 

Steven Cairns (2-0)?133lbs 

Jose Hernandez (4-41-1) 127lbs 

1630? 

6 Rounds Bantamweight Contest? 

Blane Hyland (5-1)?118lbs 

Stephen Jackson (1-15) 117lbs 

LAS VEGAS, NV (April 19, 2022) – Boxing returns to Las Vegas on May 5, 2022, as Reid Boxing will put on a spectacular Cinco de Mayo show, featuring two prospects putting their undefeated records on the line. Lester Martinez (11-0, 10 KOs), a power punching slugger from Guatemala City, Guatemala, will square off against Juan Abraham Villegas (17-0, 13 KOs) of Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico, in a 10-round super middleweight main event bout.

The event titled, Thursday Night Fight Vibes, will take place at the Sahara Event Center. Tickets priced $20, $25, $35, $50, $75, $100 and $150 (VIP), are on sale now and can be purchased at Eventbrite.com. The Sahara Event Center located on East Karen Avenue in Las Vegas, NV. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. PT, first fight starts at 7:15 p.m. PT.

The co-main event will showcase Robin Sirwan Safar (14-0, 10 KOs) vs. Christian Thomas (11-0, 9 KOs) in an additional battle of undefeated prospects putting their unbeaten records to the test. Safar vs. Thomas, an 8-round bout, will be in the light heavyweight division.

The undercard bouts will be loaded with more exciting fights as heavyweights DeAndre Savage (3-0, 3 KOs) and Antonio Zapeda (3-0, 3 KOs), will battle in a scheduled 6-round bout. Again, someone’s “0” must go.

Rising star, Able Mendoza (32-0, 25 KOs), will risk his unbeaten record against Ricardo Proano (11-4, 9 KOs) in a 10-round lightweight bout. Mendoza, who hails from El Paso, TX, has been making noise in the lightweight division, and promises to bring the heat on fight night.

Other undercard bouts:

Light heavyweight Britton Norwood (10-4-1, 7 KO) of Las Vegas, NV, will face Juan Higuera (4-0, 3 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico. (6-rounds)

Welterweight Jeremy Nichols (9-2-1, 3 KOs) of Las Vegas, NV, will battle Joseph Bonas (7-1, 6 KOs) of Detroit, MI. (6-rounds)

Super featherweight Sha’rhod Williams (3-0, 3 KOs) of Las Vegas, NV, will face Shamar Canal (1-0, 1 KO) of Albany, NY. (4-rounds)

Welterweight Anthony Demonte (4-0, 3 KOs) and super bantamweight Andy Beltran (4-0, 2 KO) will all face opponents TBA.

POMONA, CA (April 20, 2022) – Lightweight sensation, Ernesto “Tito” Mercado (5-0, 5 KOs), who has knocked out every opponent he has faced, will return on Thursday, May 12, 2022, against Jose Zaragoza (8-4-1, 2 KOs). The scheduled 6-round bout will take place in Montebello, California, at the Quiet Cannon Country Club, promoted by Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions airing live on UFC Fight Pass.

Mercado is one of the most active fighters in the lightweight division and has stopped his last four opponents in the first round, with his last being a 36-fight veteran in Daniel Evangelista Jr. (20-14-2, 16 KOs), who was thought could take him rounds. It is clear Mercado’s power is different compared to his peers. His upcoming fight against Zaragoza will be his third bout of 2022.

“I want to be the most feared lightweight in the world, I have stopped every opponent I have faced, and this fight will be no different as I plan to come out throwing bombs,” said Mercado, who looks to be the hardest-hitting lightweight prospect in the world right now. “I’m always looking for opponents to give me more rounds, but I’ve been getting them hurt early, and when that happens my instinct is to always go for the knockout. I know the next level of competition will be different where I will have to go the distance, but it’s been nice ending fights early. The goal is to stay as active as possible so I can get into the world title picture by the end of next year.”

Mercado will look to get his sixth knockout in a row on May 12th, and with his knockout power, appears to be one of the most exciting fighters in all of boxing.

“My only focus right now is winning a world title and bringing it back to the gym with my father,” continued Mercado. “Everything is secondary to that goal. In 2022 I’ve been extremely active and it’s making me a better fighter, my confidence is at an all-time high. I want to be respected as the best lightweight of this era. I am chasing greatness, I think a lot of fighters now are not fighting with the pride you’d see in fighters from the 80s, and I am built from that cloth. I’m definitely like to consider myself as a throwback fighter”

PLANT CITY, Florida (April 20, 2022): The sweet science is about to experience a revolutionary change, and it all starts with two action-packed battles in the light heavyweight and featherweight divisions.

ProBox TV, the first and only global sports streaming and media company dedicated exclusively to the sport of professional boxing, will host its first live broadcast on May 20 as IBF No. 1 Contender Fanlong Meng (17-0, 10 KOs) and former two-time world champion Jean Pascal (35-6-1, 20 KOs) meet in a 12-round clash for a top spot in the 175-pound division.

In the co-feature, former champion Xu Can (18-3, 3 KOs) makes his highly anticipated return against rugged Mexican warrior Brandon Benitez (18-2, 7 KOs) in a 10-round bout that is guaranteed to produce a war.

Ticket and undercard information for the event will be announced shortly. The entire event will be streamed live on ProBox TV from the Company’s Events Center in Plant City, Florida.

Meng is a 34-year-old southpaw who has been craving for a meaningful challenge. He made his professional debut in 2015 following a decorated amateur career where he represented China in the 2012 Olympic Games. Since then, he has captured two regional titles, the WBO Oriental and the IBF Intercontinental Light Heavyweight Titles. The native of Chifeng City, China is eager to step up in opposition in order to put himself in line for a world title. But in order to do so, he’ll have to take on the toughest, most dangerous test of his career against a former world champion.

“I’m so excited to get back in the ring and face former world champion Jean Pascal on May 20,” said Meng. “This fight is so unique for a lot of different reasons. It’s my first time as the main event fighter. It’s the first time I face a former world champion, and it’s the first time we will live stream in China so that 1.5 billion people can support. It’s also my first time fighting on ProBox, my home turf. I’ve been training very hard here in Florida. Camp has been great. I can’t wait to put on a good show.”

Pascal is generally considered to be one of the top light heavyweights of the past 15 years. In 2009, he defeated Adrian Diaconu to capture the WBC Light Heavyweight World Title. He defended it twice before capturing the IBO Light Heavyweight World Championship in a unification fight with Chad Dawson.

Pascal eventually lost the belts in a 2011 rematch to Hall of Famer Bernard Hopkins, but had world title opportunities during the next few years against the likes of Sergey Kovalev and Dmitry Bivol. He will need to defeat Meng if he wants to remain a player in the division, and if age is a significant factor, then that means he’ll need to resort to using power and strength to stop the younger man early.

“It’s been a long time coming,” said Pascal. “I’m back with a lot to prove and a fire under my ass. This fight with Meng is a great opportunity for me to get right back where I belong, the top of the division. He’s a good fighter. He’s undefeated for a reason, but he’s never been in with anybody like me. After this fight, he and Ahmed Elbiali will have something in common, losses to me in Florida in fights his people should have never made.”

Can is a former world champion who is known for his volume punching and relentless action. The native of Fuzhou, China captured the WBA Featherweight World Title with a unanimous decision victory over Jesus Rojas in January 2019. He made defenses against Shun Kubo and Manny Robles III before losing the belt against Leigh Wood in July 2021.

Can will look to bounce back against a tough challenge in Benitez, a 24-year-old native of Queretaro, Mexico whose only losses have come against undefeated boxers. Benitez will enter this fight coming off a four-fight win streak.

“I’m excited to return to the ring in this tough fight against Brandon Benitez,” said Can. “Fans know my style. They know that I like to throw lots of punches. So when it’s a fight between me and a Mexican warrior like Benitez, you know it will be a war.”

“I am ready and excited for this opportunity to face a former world champion,” said Benitez. “This is the opportunity I’ve been fighting for all my life. I know it will be a difficult fight where there’ll be a lot of punches thrown, but I will be in great shape to not only throw more than my opponent, but also to win convincingly.”

In addition to this double main event, ProBox TV subscribers will be treated with an innovative tournament series titled “Last Chance.” Additional details will be announced shortly.

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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.

As a business we have faced unprecedented levels of unfair scrutiny and criticism since the sanctioning by the US Government of Daniel Joseph Kinahan.

It is a matter of public record that Mr Kinahan’s involvement in MTK ceased in 2017, and despite repeated reassurances in this regard, unfounded allegations about his ongoing association with us and our fighters persist.

Since leading promoters have now informed us that they will be severing all ties with MTK and will no longer work with our fighters, we have taken the difficult decision to cease operations at the end of this month. 

MTK prospered because we always put the long term interests of our fighters at the heart of what we do. Our priority in the weeks ahead will be to ensure that our world class boxers are supported to find new partnerships as swiftly as possible.

MTK gyms are operated independently so will remain open for the foreseeable future. Further announcements will be made in due course.

Thank you to all the fans who have supported us over the last decade.

LIVERPOOL, APRIL 20 – Paul Butler will face WBO Intercontinental bantamweight champion Jonas Sultan in his huge homecoming fight at Liverpool’s M&S Bank Arena which tops a thrilling Probellum card on April 22.

With John Riel Casemiro being forced to pull out of facing Butler for the second time in the space of a few months, his Filipino countryman Sultan has been mandated to step up to fight for the interim bantamweight world title by WBO.

Butler (35-2, 15 knockouts) faces Sultan (18-5, 11 knockouts) after the Filipino’s unanimous decision victory over Carlos Carabello at Madison Square Garden in October.

The exciting Sultan – nicknamed One Punch – is unbeaten since his move up to bantamweight last year, also knocking out American Sharone Carter in August.

Speaking about the fight, Sultan said: “This is a big moment for me and I am hungry for it. There is a lot of hard work that has gone into my preparation and it was meant to be that I get in the ring against Butler this week.

“I will be dedicating this fight to my friend Ali Tazeem who tragically died last week. I have been training with him since we came over to the UK to prepare for this fight and I am 100% focused on bringing the belt home to his family when I win on Friday night.”

The huge bantamweight clash heads up the mouthwatering Probellum card which also sees Sam Maxwell’s IBO super-lightweight world title fight against Alejandro Meneses.

Local favourites Jazza Dickens, and brothers Peter and Joe McGrail complete the home interest in a night sure to entice a partisan local support in one of Britain’s boxing hotbeds.

The show will be join live, free and exclusive on Probellum.com

Queens, New York (April 19, 2022) – Star Boxing is pleased to announce the signing of 2018 and 2019 New York Ring Masters Champion (formally the Golden Gloves), RONNY REYES to a promotional agreement. Ronny will make his pro debut on Saturday, May 7 at Star Boxing’s “Borough Boxing” located at St. John’s famed Carnesecca Arena in Queens, New York.

Ronny grew up on the Lower East Side of New York City, where he currently resides with his sister, who he helped raise. Now 25, Reyes is a college graduate with a degree from SUNY Delhi. When not fighting, Ronny is a certified personal trainer at Underdog Boxing and Fitness located in the Bronx, managed by Mainstreet Underdog. (3448 E Tremont Ave, Bronx, NY 10465). Aside form Ronny’s two Ring Masters Championships, over his 7 year amateur career, he was crowned 2019 Metro Champion and was a National Representative. He concluded his amateur journey with 25 fights winning 20.

Reyes had this to say about the signing,”It’s official! The signing is complete and May 7th we fight! We are going to put on a show. You are not going to want to miss it!”

Star Boxing brings professional boxing to Carnesecca Arena on May 7 for the first time in the famed venues existence. “Ronny Reyes is a good example of the local, NYC centric talent we hope to build through our fight series in partnership with St. John’s University. It all begins on May 7. Come and join us from the start,” said Star Boxing CEO JOE DEGUARDIA. A massive “Borough Boxing” fight card will be announced this week.

Tickets for “Borough Boxing” are on sale NOW and can be purchased by clicking HERE. The fight card will be announced soon. Doors will open at 6:30 PM ET and fists will fly at around 7:30 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.

LAS VEGAS (April 19, 2022) – “CELEBRITY” Making of A Champion (CMOAC), presented by New G Media Entertainment, LLC is accepting international casting call applications from professional boxers worldwide for its upcoming franchise boxing reality show made for Network Television.

“The future boxing stars of tomorrow are with us today,” CMOAC spokesperson Cosmo said.

Professional boxers may go to: https://www.celebritymakingofachampion.com to learn more about “CELEBRITY” Making of A Champion’s international casting call and apply to be considered as a cast member.

In addition to becoming reality celebrity television stars, successful participants not only can seize the opportunity to cash in, but they can also position themselves for a regional title fight, as well as a likely top 15 world ranking. CMOAC plans to match natural rivals from diverse ethnic backgrounds to showcase contrasting fighting styles, and their compelling back stories.

Lastly, promotional free agents with interesting, if not unique backgrounds outside the ring, are urged to apply for a shot to become a celebrity champion, which will open doors that are closed to most if not all prizefighters. The inaugural seasons will feature several competitions in different weight classes, culminating with a $1,000,000 winner’s purse for both men and women in each category.

INFORMATION:

JOIN CMOAC CLUBHOUSE & VOTE for your favorite Champion Protégée.

Visit CMOAC website at: https://www.celebritymakingofachampion.com

SOCIAL MEDIA:

CMOAC

CelebrityMakingofAChampion

MISSGWEN

BoxingRealityShow

CMOACCLUBHOUSE

celebritymakingofachampionclubhouse

NewGMediaentertainment

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ThefutureBoxingStarsofTomorrowAreHereWithUsToday

COSMO

Orlando, FL (April 19, 2022) – Unbeaten junior welterweight Nestor Bravo has signed a co-promotional agreement with American Dream Presents, Boxlab Promotions and GH3 Promotions.

Hailing from Arecibo, Puerto Rico, Bravo was a standout amateur. In 2012, Bravo was an alternate for the Puerto Rico Olympic Boxing Team. He won a gold medal at the 2012 Caribbean Games, bronze at the Independence Cup and owns a victory over Olympic Gold Medalist Robson Conceicao.

As a pro, Bravo’s a perfect 20-0 with 14 KO’s. He joined boxing’s paid ranks in 2015 and knocked out his first six opponents. In 2019, Bravo became the WBC Latino lightweight champion after defeating Emiliano Martin Gracia via unanimous decision.

“I feel extremely blessed for this opportunity to fight on the Entrobox Series,” said Bravo, who has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and plans to become a lawyer after his boxing career. “There’s a large Puerto Rican community in the Orlando area that does a great job of supporting the sport. The plan is to keep winning and do so impressively so I can get in the ring with one of the top 140 pound fighters.”

Bravo returns to the ring Saturday, May 21 and will face contender Fernando David Saucedo, 63-9-3 (10 KO’s) of Argentina in an eight round contest. Bravo-Saucedo will be televised at 9 PM ET as part of Entrobox Fight Series on Bally Sports Network from the Caribe Royale in Orlando, FL

“Nestor Bravo is one of Puerto Rico’s top young talents and the entire boxing world will see the kind of fighter he is” said Ron Johnson, CEO of American Dream Presents. “He’s got a big following and a bright future outside of the ring as well but most importantly, he’s very humble. We’re very excited to have Nestor fighting for us and believe he has what it takes to become one of the world’s top junior welterweights.”

Tickets are on sale at https://www.ticketmaster.com/bally-sportsentrobox-championship-boxing-orlando-florida-05-21-2022/event/22005C889425AF5F.

Doors open at 5 pm and the opening bout takes place at 6.

A four diamond resort, the Caribe Royale is a 1,388 room resort that provides a luxurious and relaxing experience for guests of all ages. Amenities include a spa, five restaurants, kid’s splashpad and playground, a two-story fitness center and a large outdoor pool featuring a 75 foot waterside. Fully re-imagined and renovated with over $127m in improvements and expansion Caribe Royale is the premier all suite hotel in Orlando.

SIOUX CITY, IA (April 23, 2022) – It’s official, Sena “The African Assassin” Agbeko (24-2, 19 KOs) and former WBO Inter-Continental Champion Apollo “Kidd” Thompson (19-4, 7 KOs) will square off in a historic fight on April 23, 2022, from the Abu Bekr Temple in Sioux City, Iowa. Agbeko vs Thompson, at 8-rounds Super Middleweight bout, will air live on FiteTV available at:

? Sioux City Fight Night: Sena Agbeko vs Apollo Thompson – Official PPV Live Stream – FITE

While still in Ghana, Sena earned titles as Ghanian’s World Middleweight Championship and West African Super Middleweight Championship and with 19 devastating KOs, he is sure to cause havoc and pain for anyone in the division.

Apollo “Kidd” Thompson had an extensive amateur career. His final record was 89-22 and along the way, he won New Jersey Golden Gloves six times. Thompson fought for a world title vs Liam Smith and was ahead on the cards till he got caught in the 7th round. Notable wins against fighters like Brandon Adams and Stanyslav Skorokhod have made him a real threat to worry about as he returns to the ring after a four-year hiatus.

“The decision to get into boxing was influenced by a lot of factors,” said Agbeko. “First, I always played sports in school, I played basketball, handball, ran cross country and later did field events like discuss and shot putt but the collegiate level in Ghana doesn’t offer sports and I felt like I needed to keep going with my sports ambitions. I had two options, soccer, or boxing so I went with boxing. Another factor was the influence of the great Azumah Nelson, one of the greatest fighters from Africa. I remember as kids, our parents would wake up at 3 or 4am in Ghana to catch his fights. It was inspiring and I wanted to do the things he did too. The final thing was watching the Ghana boxing team at the Beijing Olympics in 2008. I was inspired and wanted to win a medal for my country by competing. Though that was never realized, it definitely set me on by boxing path as I began training in the fall of 2008.”

“I actually believe that I’m a greatest boxer,” said Thompson. “If you don’t believe that you are the greatest boxer you shouldn’t be in this game. Once you start doubting yourself you have already lost. My plan is to become the best-that’s it. Once I achieve my goal then I’ll be impressed with myself. Then I’ll feel that I actually accomplishing something as far as right now I’m just stepping up in the brackets.”

The Co-Main event will feature Heavyweight sensation Istvan “The Hammer” Bernath (9-0, 7KOs). As an amateur, he won a silver medal in the super-heavyweight division at the 2008 EU Championships and at the 2009 EU Championships. Bernath will be tested against a wily veteran with knockout power of his own when he goes up against Milton Nunez (37-28-1, 32KOs).

Another notable fight on the card is Efrain Morales (7-1, 3KOs) vs Brent “Mr. Hollywood” Oren (4-8, 1KO).

A stacked undercard features many competitive bouts. Local fighter Traevon “Kid Cobra” Kroger will be making his debut vs Michael Mendez. Austin Pederson and Corey McIntosh have some local “beef” to squash. Come see it live or order it on FiteTV!

UNCASVILLE, Conn. (April 19, 2022) – The Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame (CBHOF) has announced its 2021 award winners to be honored at the 16TH annual CBHOF Gala Induction Dinner on Saturday night, May 21, in the Uncas Ballroom at Mohegan Sun.

East Hartford’s “Marvelous” Mykquan Williams has been selected as the 2021 Connecticut Professional Boxer of the Year. Williams could become the first CBHOF triple-crown winner having previously been the Amateur Boxer of the Year. All that’s left for the gifted super welterweight, who had a 16-0-1 (7 KOs) overall pro record entering 2022, including the WBC USNBC super lightweight title, is a future CBHOF inductee. In his lone 2021 fight, Williams won a 10-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Yeis Gabriel Solano (15-0), who landed on the canvas in the 8th round.

East Hartford High School junior Jahnyah Lumpkin is the Ronald Roy Amateur Boxer of the Year. Lumpkin won seven of nine fights in 2021, defeating nationally ranked fighters and earning a silver medal at the National Silver Gloves Championships. Her only losses were to nationally rated opponents. A National Honor Society student who fights out of the Charter Oak Academy, Lumpkin finished fourth at the U.S. National Championships.

Attorney Jeffrey Dressler is the George Smith Contribution to Boxing Award winner. He is Charter Oak Academy Board member, as well as a member of the Connecticut State Boxing Commission, and active member of UA Boxing since 1992. He is also an accomplished ring announcer who has helped young boxers succeed outside the ring through Mega Education, the scholastic incentive system he founded.

The Will Hutt Professional Official of the Year Frank Lombardi, of Danbury, is one of the most accomplished judges in boxing. He has judged more than 600 bouts, highlighted by his judging of the first Arturo Gatti-Micky Ward fight at Mohegan Sun, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, voted as the Fight of the Year by several organizations.

Earning praise for her abilities as an official is old hat for 2021 Amateur Official of the Year Heather Concepcion, whose selection for this prestigious award for the second time. As president of the Connecticut USA Boxing Committee, she was able to revive amateur boxing in Connecticut despite COVID-19 restrictions. Concepcion has managed registration, secretarial duties, chairmanship, and vice president responsibilities with Conn. USA Boxing during her career.

The inaugural Willie Pep Courage Award recipient is Jason Jakubowski for being so active in community service in the Greater Hartford area for many years. This award will be presented annually to an individual or entity throughout the community who displays extraordinary courage. He was a longtime coach in the West Hartford Youth Baseball League. Mr. Jakubowski is president and CEO of Foodshare, which distributes more than 13 million meals each year to local food pantries and community kitchens in Central Connecticut. Jakubowski oversaw the distribution of food to hundreds of thousands of individuals and families during the pandemic.

“The Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame is so proud to announce this year’s annual award winners,” CBHOF President John L. Laudati said. “Congratulations to repeat winners Mykquan Williams and Heather Conception. Young Ms. Lumpkin is a deserving winner as is renowned boxing Judge Frank Lombardi. Few people have contributed as much to the Sport of Boxing and the youth of Hartford as Jeffrey Dressler. We at the CBHOF are especially proud to present the inaugural Willie Pep Courage Award to celebrate the 100th birthday anniversary of the legendary Willie Pep.”

The CBHOF Class of 2021 inductees are retired boxers Mike “Machine Gun” Oliver, of Hartford, and New Haven’s Elvin Ayala, Hartford referee Danny Schiavone, Glastonbury’s (Hartford Civic Center executive director) Frank E. Russo, Manchester trainer Jose “Papo” Colon, and New Haven manager Mike Criscio.

The CBHOF Class of 2020 consists entirely of “Old Timers”, will also be inducted on May 21: Jimmy Leto, of Hartford, Waterbury’s Eddie Dolan, New Haven’s Al Gainer, and Meridian’s Steve Carr, as well as New London’s coach Mosey King, commissioner Barbara Dunn, and Hartford journalist/editor William J. “Bill” Lee.

Tickets for the CBHOF 16th annual Gala Induction Dinner, reasonably priced at $90.00, are on sale and available to purchase by calling Sherman Cain at 860.212.9029 and Rider Productions at 860.413.9067. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. ET, followed by a full sit-down dinner at 7 p.m. ET.

Go online to www.ctboxinghof.org for additional information about the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame, its 16th annual Gala Inductee Dinner, event sponsorship opportunities, and past CBHOF inductees.

ABOUT CBHOF: The Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame was founded in 2004 to honor and celebrate the careers of outstanding individuals involved in the sport of boxing. Its inaugural Induction Ceremony & Dinner was held in 2005. Connecticut’s rich boxing history could never have flourished if it weren’t for the achievements of those enshrined in the Hall of Fame. The CBHOF’s new location is in the Sky Casino at Mohegan Sun.

As a non-profit organization, the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame is deeply committed to keeping the fighting spirit of Connecticut thriving through various charitable contributions.

We regret to announce that Bob Yalen has today stepped down as CEO of MTK Global for personal reasons.

We would like to thank him for all of his efforts on behalf of the business and his leadership of our team.

Bob Yalen said: “I am incredibly proud of the success of MTK Global and I feel privileged to have served as President and CEO since 2018.

“However, the pressure of the last few weeks has been particularly intense. I need to consider the impact on myself and my family. So after four years leading MTK, I think it’s time for me to step aside to take on new challenges.”

Los Angeles, CA (April 18, 2022) Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions has announced a full card of fights for the highly anticipated return on Thursday, May 12  of its acclaimed Hollywood Fight Nights series at the Quiet Cannon – Montebello Country Club.

The event headlined by Top, Undefeated Irish Rising Star Callum Walsh, (2-0, 2 KOs) of Riverside, CA will be broadcast live globally on UFC Fight Pass, linked here for subscription >> https://bit.ly/3uJOnTE.

Just 21-years-old, the internationally heralded Walsh, guided by Hall of Famer Freddie Roach, will clash with fellow undefeated prospect Luis ‘The Sniper’ Garcia, (3-0, 1 KO), of San Diego, CA in the scheduled six-round, super welterweight main event.

Co-featured Jalen ‘Sky’ Walker, (10-0-1, 9 KO’s), of Los Angeles, CA battles Adan Ochoa, (12-2, 5 KOs) in a highly anticipated eight-round featherweight clash.

In a women’s lightweight bout, Chelsey Anderson, (4-0, 1 KO), of Yorba Linda, CA battles San Diego southpaw Jessica Juarez, (3-1, 1 KO), in a scheduled six rounder.

In a special attraction amateur bout, Son of the Legendary Manny Pacquiao, Manny Pacquiao Jr. will compete in a three-round featherweight bout against an opponent to be announced.

Light heavyweights will be in action as Hollywood Fight Nights fan favorite, Marco Deckmann, (8-1, 7 KOs), of North Hollywood, CA looks to extend his five-bout winning streak against Jasper McCargo, (4-2-2, 2 KOs), of Richmond, CA.

Competing in the featherweight division, Omar Cande Trinidad, (7-0-1, 5 KOs), of Los Angeles, CA will face an opponent to be announced over six scheduled rounds.

Also, in the featherweight division, Dariial Kuchmenov, (3-0, 2 KOs), of Los Angeles, CA will compete in a four rounder against an opponent to be announced.

Lightweight prospect 19-year-old Ruben ‘Gallito’ Islas, (4-0, 3 KOs), of Rialto, CA hits the ring in a four-round bout against an opponent to be announced.

Rounding out the card, in a battle of super lightweight newcomers, David Romero, (1-0, 1 KO), of Los Angeles, CA battles pro debuting Fernando Gaytan of Hemet, CA in a four rounder.

Advance tickets are now on-sale starting at $150 (VIP Ringside), $100 (Preferred Seating) and $80 (Reserved Seating), online at Hollywood Fight Nights / Seating. The Quiet Cannon – Montebello Country Club is located at 901 via San Clemente, Montebello, CA 90640. Doors will open on the night of the event at 5:30 p.m. PT. For more information on the venue please visit www.QuietCannon.com.

About Tom Loeffler

Loeffler holds the record for having promoted the most heavyweight world title fights this century while promoting all the championship fights of Wladimir and Vitali Klitschko for K2 Promotions, a company he founded with the brothers. Tom also brought the Spotlight to the Flyweight division launching the Superfly Series on HBO that highlighted stars including Roman “Chocolatito” Gonzalez, Juan Francisco Estrada, Kazuto Ioka, Srisaket Sor Rungvisai and Carlos Cuadras. Tom is best known for his work with Gennadiy “GGG” Golovkin building him into an international superstar as the reigning middleweight world champion for the last 10 years. He strategically secured global sponsorship deals with Jordan Brand, Hublot, Tecate, Chivas, and Bijan. Tom has also worked with Hall of Fame fighters Shane Mosley, James Toney and Kevin Kelley as well as hosting the US debut of Naoya Inoue. 

About 360 Promotions:

During 2017, Tom Loeffler founded 360 Promotions to provide rising boxers additional opportunities to develop their talents. 360 Promotions produced the acclaimed ‘Superfly’ series giving exposure to tremendous talents in the lighter divisions including world champions; Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez, Juan Francisco Estrada, Srisaket Sor Rungvisai, Naoya Inoue and Kazuto Ioka. In 2018, 360 Promotions launched the Hollywood Fight Nights series at the Avalon Nightclub in Hollywood, CA. Hollywood Fight Nights is billed as the VIP boxing experience which provides a platform for rising boxers to develop their talents as future champions.

About UFC FIGHT PASS^®:

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

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Coventry, England – (April 16 2022) – Hometown hero Dylan Cheema (5-0, 1 KOs) emerged as the winner of the BOXXER Series lightweight tournament tonight as he beat Rylan Charlton (9-3-1, 4 KOs) by unanimous decision to claim the 40-thousand-pound prize at the Skydome Arena in Coventry, live on Sky Sports.

The former kickboxing world champion from Coventry didn’t have an easy road to the final however as Cheema had to fend off the likes of Scott Melvin (5-1, 1 KOs) and Otis Lookman (1-1, 1 KOs) on the way.

The final was an all-out war from the opening bell, both men landed powerful shots that had all in attendance grimacing. The pair were feeling the effects of the previous fights and were breathing heavily at the end of the round. It asked the question of who was hungrier to win.

Cheema and Charlton traded numerous punches in the second round and at times it seemed Charlton was flat out on his feet, but he kept mustering the energy to answer Cheema back.

The third and final round was one to go down in the BOXXER Series history books as all in attendance were speechless in what they were witnessing. Both men put the hard hours in during training camp and it showed in the ring with the end-to-end action. The Coventry crowd were treated to a great night of tournament boxing.

The BOXXER Series victory at lightweight not only led Cheema to an eye-watering amount of cash but a step in the right direction as more opportunities under the BOXXER and Sky Sports banner await the 25-year-old.

Cheema’s route to the final was a hard earnt one that had his home crowd of Coventry entertained. After an explosive first round stoppage victory over Otis Lookman in the quarter finals, Cheema faced Scott Melvin in the semis which was easily fight of the night until the final.

Melvin looked comfortable throughout the second round against Cheema, he wasn’t afraid to showboat in front of the Coventry crowd on the night. However, it was Cheema that was landing the more convincing punches.

The final round had the crowd in awe as both fighters bit down on the gum shield and came out swinging. Melvin was able to slip some of the forward attacks from Cheema but saw himself on the end of a lot of heavy blows that was the difference for the judges at ringside.

Melvin’s journey to the semi-final against Cheema was a difficult one for himself personally as he was drawn against fellow stablemate Tion Gibbs (8-1, 0 KOs) who is most notably recognised as the brother of Cori Gibbs, BOXXER series Liverpool champion.

An interesting fight from the moment it was drawn earlier in the week, both fighters shared the same corner and were anticipating a meeting in the final. Both men fought hard, and it was hard to split the two before the final bell. Melvin took the victory via a split decision.

Before Charlton joined Cheema in the final, he stopped the experienced Shaun Cooper (13-4, 0 KOs) in the final round of their semi final meeting. Charlton was a handful in every fight he took part in on the night with his super aggressive style of fighting, living up to his nickname ‘The pint-sized powerhouse’.

Cooper was able to stay on the back foot at times and land long, looping shots over the top of the guard of Charlton who remained consistent on the front foot. A brutal body shot landed in the final round that saw Cooper drop to the canvas in agony and wanting no more.

The bookies favourite and Sky Sports Boxing regular Charlton defeated Nottingham based fighter Joe Underwood Hughes (7-1, 1 KOs) prior to his semi final appearance in a gruelling quarter final clash which could have gone either way.

Charlton remained on the front foot throughout all three rounds with Hughes doing a fantastic job to stay with his man following the onslaught.

Shaun Cooper, who formerly held the WBO Youth lightweight title, matched up against 22-year-old Brooklyn Tilley (3-1, 0 KOs) in the final quarter final of the evening in Coventry.

Tilley who was spurred on by his loyal fanbase struggled to convince the judges at ringside as Cooper had his hand raised and his name booked into the semi final with Charlton. The judges scored it 29-28 all in favour of a split decision victory for Cooper.

BOXXER Series returns to Sky Sports next month as the tournament hits Sheffield on May 21st, showcasing eight hungry cruiserweights waiting for their time to shine.

Fight results

Final: Dylan Cheema (5-0, 1 KOs) def. Rylan Charlton (9-3-1, 4 KOs) – Unanimous decision 29-28, 29-28, 29-28 Cheema 3×3 lightweight.

Semi final one: Dylan Cheema (5-0, 1 KOs) def. Scott Melvin (5-1, 1 KOs) – Split decision 29-28 Melvin, 29-28 Cheema, 29-28 Cheema 3×3 lightweight.

Semi final two: Rylan Charlton (9-3-1, 4 KOs) def. Shaun Cooper (13-4, 0 KOs) – 3rd rnd KO, 3×3 lightweight

Quarter final one: Dylan Cheema (5-0, 1 KOs) def. Otis Lookman (1-1, 1 KOs) – 1st rnd TKO, 3×3 lightweight.

Quarter final two: Scott Melvin (5-1, 1 KOs) def. Tion Gibbs (8-1, 0 KOs) – Split decision 29-28 Melvin, 29-28 Gibbs, 29-28 Melvin 3×3 lightweight.

Quarter final three: Rylan Charlton (9-3-1, 4 KOs) def. Joe Underwood Hughes (7-1, 1 KOs) – Unanimous decision 29-28, 29-28, 29-28 Charlton 3×3 lightweight.

Quarter final four: Shaun Cooper (13-4, 0 KOs) def. Brooklyn Tilley (3-1, 0 KOs) – Unanimous decision 29-28, 29-28, 29-28 Cooper 3×3 lightweight.

Errol Spence Jr. added the WBA Welterweight title to his WBC and IBF collection by stopping Yordenis Ugas in round 10 of a thrilling fight in front of nearly 40,000 fans at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

The fight was fought mostly toe-to-toe with both guys digging to the body. Spence was pinpoint with his uppercut, Ugas tried to match that and also was effective with a right around the guard.

In round six, Ugas landed a big right that rocked Spence and made the moutpiece go flying. Spence asked for time but Ugas was right on top of Spence and pounded away for his best moment of the fight. That seemed to wake Spence up as he started landing massive left hands that started to swell the right eye of Ugas. That was the turning point of the fight as Spence was relentless with his pressure as he hurt Ugas several more times with big flurries. With each round, the eye worsened for Ugas. In round eight, the doctor looked at the eye of Ugas, but The Cuban was able to continue. He continued to take more punishment until the middle of round 10 as the fight was stopped on the advice of the ringside physician.

Spence, 146,25 lbs of DeSoto, TX is now 28-0 with 22 knockouts. Ugas, Santiago de Cuba, CUB is 27-5.

Isaac Cruz pummels Gamboa in Five

Former world title challenger Isaac Cruz scored four knockdowns en-route to a fifth round stoppage over former unified champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in a 10-round lightweight fight.

In round two, Cruz sent Gamboa to the canvas with a huge three punch combination. In round three, it was a left hook that dropped Gamboa. In round four, Cruz scored a hard knockdown with a left hook. Cruz mercifully ended things when he landed a big overhand right knocked Gamboa into the ropes and the fight was called off at 1:32.

Cruz, 134.75 lbs of Mexico City is 23-2-1 with 16 knockouts. Gamboa, 134.25 lbs of Guantanamo, CUB is 30-5.

Jose Valenzuela Destroys Vargas in First Round

Jose Valenzuela annihilated former world champion Francisco Vargas in the opening round of their 10-round lightweight bout.

Valenzuela landed a booming left that sent Vargas to the canvas and the fight was stopped at 1:25.

Valenzuela, 134.75 lbs of Los Mochis, MX is 12-0 with eight knockout. Vargas, 134.25 lbs of Mexico City is 27-4-2.

Cody Crowley Decisions Josesito Lopez

Cody Crowley remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Josesito Lopez in a welterweight bout.

In round seven, Crowley dropped Lopez with a right hook to the head. In round nine, the left eye of Lopez started to swell.

Crowley landed 205 of 812 punches; Lopez was 116 of 443.

Crowley, 144.5 lbs of Pieterborough, ONT CAN, won by scores of 99-90 and 98-91 twice and is now 21-0. Lopez, 146.3 lbs of Riverside, CA is 38-9.

Stanionis Wins WBA Welterweight title with Decisions over Butaev

Eimantas Stanionis won the WBA Welterweight title with a 12-round split decision over Radzhab Butaev.

In round 11, Butaev was deducted a point for holding the head and hitting Stanionis.

Stanionis landed 222 of 621 punches; Butaev was 140 of 747.

Stanionis, 146.5 lbs of Lithuania won by scores of 117-110 and 116-111. Butaev took a card 114-113.

Stanionis 14-0. Butaev, 146.5 lbs of Russia is 14-1.

“I still can’t believe it,” Stanionis said afterward. “It was a dream come true to hear ‘and the new.’ When I was a kid, I visualized what this would look like and how it would feel to become a champion. It’s because of the hard work, dedication, belief in myself and my team to get me to this big stage. I just want to tell everybody that dreams do come true. If you believe in it and give your everything, it will happen.”

“The fight went like this because the referee allowed Stanionis to fight with his head down the entire time,” Butaev said. “What can I do if the guy is leading with his head down all the time? I don’t know why he took away a point from me. They should have taken the point away from him because he was diving in the whole time.”

Brandun Lee Decisions Ochoa

Brandun Lee remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Zachary Ochoa in a junior welterweight bout

In round five, Ochoa began to bleed from his nose.

Lee landed 103 of 575 punches. Ochoa was 70 of 328.

Lee, 141.25 lbs of La Quinta, CA won by scores of 99-91 twice and 98-92 and is now 24-0. Ochoa, 141.25 lbs of Brooklyn, NY is 21-3.

“I think that only two rounds were close, the seventh and maybe the ninth,” Lee said. “It was exactly what I expected. Perhaps I could have performed better, my combinations been a bit sharper, but it was a good fight overall. Fighting at AT&T Stadium was a blessing. Wow, what an experience. It motivates me even more to come back here and be a headliner one day. I want to be a world champion at 140, unify titles, become undisputed and then become a world champ at 147.”

“Brandun Lee is a really good fighter, a strong fighter,” Ochoa said. “I feel I was doing really well. He caught me a little bit, but I kept my confidence, my poise and when it was time to step it up the last three rounds, I started putting the pressure on him and we went at it. I went all out. He’s never had it like that. I only got hurt one time, maybe at the end of the seventh. I know I buzzed him too.”

Conor Benn remained undefeated with an explosive second round stoppage over Chris Van Heerden in a scheduled 12-round welterweight bout at The Manchester Arena in Manchester, England.

Benn came out in a seek-and-destroy mode in the Mike Tyson posture as he loaded with hard power shots. In round two, he hit his mark as he buckled Van Heerden with a hard right hand for which he followed up with a hard uppercuts and three chopping rights later Van Heerden was down and out at 59 seconds.

Benn, 146 lbs of Essex, ENG is now 21-0 with 14 knockouts. Van Heerden, 145 lbs of Santa Monica, CA via South Africa is 28-3-1-1.

Billiam-Smith Stops McCarthy in 8 in rematch

Chris Billiam-Smith made it two victories over Tommy McCarthy by registering an eighth-round stoppage in a cruiserweight fight.

In round six, Billam-Smith began to bleed over his left eye.

In round eight, Billiam Smith landed a hard right that was followed up by a left on the ropes that shook McCarthy. That was followed by a booming right to the side of the head that put McCarthy down for the count at 1:20.

Billiam-Smith, 199 lbs of Bournesmouth, ENG is now 15-1 with 11 knockouts. McCarthy, 199 lbs of Belfast, NI is now 18-4.

This was a rematch of Billiam-Smith’s split decision on July 31, 2021.

Campbell Hatton Decisions Gregores

Campbell Hatton remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Ezequiel Gregores in a junior welterweight fight.

Hatton, 136 lbs of Manchester, ENG won by a 60-54 score and is now 7-0. Gregores, 139 lbs of Spain is 3-10.

Alycia Baumgardner Decisions Matthysse; Defends Jr. Lightweight Title

Alycia Baumgardner made the first the defense of the WBC/IBO Junior Lightweight world titles with a 10-round unanimous decision over former world champion Soledad Matthysse.

Baumgardner landed 113 of 315 punches; Matthysse just 38 of 260.

Baumgardner, 129 lbs of Detroit, MI won by shutout scores of 100-90 on all cards and is now 12-1. Matthysse, 133 lbs of Argentina is 17-12-1.

Jack Cullen Decisions Belujsky

Jack Cullen won an eight-round decision over Vladimir Belujsky in a light heavyweight bout.

Cullen, 171 lbs of Little Leaver, ENG won by a 80-72 score and is now 21-3-1.Belujsky, 172 lbs of Mitchlestown, IRE is 12-4-1.

Jordan Thompson stopped Mariano Angel Gudino in round two of their eight-round cruiserweight fight.

Thompson dropped Gudino with a hard right uppercut and the fight was stopped as Gudino was in no condition to continue at 47 seconds.

Thompson, 195 lbs of Manchester, ENG is 13-0 with 11 knockouts. Gudino, 199 lbs of Cordoba, ARG is now 14-6.

Thomas Whittaker Hart remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Ben Ridings in a light heavyweight bout.

In round one, Ridings was cut over his right eye.

Whittaker Hart, 175 lbs of Liverpool, ENG won by 78-74 score and is now 7-0. Ridings, 174 lbs of Bery, ENG is 5-2.

Former world title challenger Ruben Villa returned from a 16-month layoff to look impressive in stopping Horacio Garcia in round nine of their 10-round featherweight bout at the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, California.

In round one, Garcia was cut over his left eye. Villa looked sharp in landing crisp three and four-punch combinations for which Garcia had no answer for. Villa did not look like he took any time off as he continued to break down and bloody Garcia more and more as the rounds went by.

Finally in round nine, Villa landed hard combinations that forced referee Raul Caiz Jr. to stop the bout at 1:12.

Villa, 126.4 lbs of Salinas, CA is now 19-1 with six knockouts. Garcia, 126.8 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is 35-6-1.

In a rematch, Richard Brewart Jr. won a six-round unanimous decision over Antonio Duarte.

Brewart, 161.3 lbs of Rancho Cucamonga, CA won by scores of 60-54 on all cards and is now 11-0. Duarte, 161 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 2-3.

This was a rematch of June 14, 2019 bout at the same venue where Brewart won by similar scores of 60-54 twice and 59-55.

Pedro Valencia shook off a first-round knockdown to win a six-round unanimous decision over Edgar Palacios in a battle of undefeated lightweights

In round one, Palacios dropped Valencia with a big straight left. Valencia was able to battle back and dominate the final two rounds and win by scores of 57-56 on all cards.

Valencia, 137.8 lbs of Pocoima, CA is 9-0. Palacios, 136.6 lbs of La Paz, MEX is 3-1.

Esteban Munoz stopped Kenny Williams after round three of their six-round welterweight bout.

In round three, Munoz and Williams clashed heads and Williams started to bleed around the right eye. In between rounds, the fight was halted by the corner.

Munoz, 145 lbs of San Bernardino, CA is 6-1 with three knockouts. Williams, 148.1 lbs of San Antonio, TX is 4-7-1.

Nelson Oliva stopped Manuel Martinez in the opening round of their four-round super welterweight bout.

In round one, Oliva dropped Martinez with a left hand. Seconds later, it was another left hand that sent Martinez down for second time and the fight was stopped at 1:42,

Oliva, 157 lbs of Riverside, CA is 2-0 with two knockouts. Martinez, 158 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 6-6-4.

Alejandro Barajas made a successful pro debut with a four-round unanimous decision over Ulises Rosales in a bantamweight fight.

Barajas, 117.4 lbs of Los Angeles, CA won by scores of 40-36 on all cards and is now 1-0. Rosales, 117.8 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 0-6.

COSTA MESA, CA (April 15, 2022) – Super lightweight rising star, Ernesto “Tito” Mercado (5-0, 5 KOs), remained undefeated scoring his fourth consecutive first round knockout, this time against battle tested veteran Daniel Evangelista Jr. (20-14-2, 16 KOs). The six-round bout, promoted by Englebrecht Promotions & Events on the popular Fight Club OC series, took place at The Hangar in Costa Mesa, CA.

Mercado came out guns blazing as soon as the bell rang and send Evangelista to the canvas in the opening minuet of round one, then followed up with two more knockdowns before the referee stopped the bout at the 1:37 mark. With another impressive knockout victory, Mercado is on the fast track to bigger fights.

“I’ve been saying in all my interviews that there are no more killers in the sport of boxing, and I wanted to come out again and show the world that I’m one of those throw back fighters like Mike Tyson,” said the Pomona, California native, Mercado. “I was hoping to get some rounds in against Evangelista, but I got him hurt early and took him out. Once I see my opponent hurt, my mindset is to finish him off. I want to be known as the next great knockout artist in boxing.”

At 20-years old, Mercado feels he’s one of the top prospects in boxing. After knocking out four of his five opponents within two round or less to start off his career, he’s well on his way to super stardom.

“I’ve never drank or smoke, so my body and mind is at one hundred percent when I step in the ring,” concluded Mercado, who was an Olympic alternate. “I feel if I keep working hard in and out of the ring, stay focused on the task at hand, I’ll become a world champion at some point. I’m grateful to my dad and trainer, Ernesto Mercado Sr., for keeping me on the straight and narrow, and all my supporters for helping me on my journey to the top. I’m putting everyone on notice in the lightweight and super lightweight divisions.”