Hialeah, FL / April 12, 2022 – Professional boxing returns to this iconic South Florida landmark for the second time this year on Saturday May 7, 2022 at 7 PM when Hialeah Park Casino, in association with Warriors Boxing and Rivalta Boxing, presents “Una Gran Noche De Boxeo Cubano 2.”

The card 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.

“Peró was a very accomplished amateur who won gold medals for Cuba at the Pan American Games and fought at the 2016 Summer Olympics,” said promoter Henry Rivalta. “He’s a fantastic prospect, a very technical and graceful fighter. But he needs to be ready to fight! Perez is super tough and he’s on the comeback trail.”

As for the Martinez-Light matchup, “This fight will be a major class test for the local fighter Martinez,” explained Rivalta. “Light has held three different regional cruiserweight titles and he’s looking to break into the IBF Top 10.”

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 Angel Pillado (13-3, 4 KOs).

Victor Abreu.jpg

But the fight that has most ringsiders anxious about is the professional debut of Cuban super-bantamweight Victor Abreu, who will fight early in the evening.

“This kid is really special,” said Rivalta. “He fought over 170 times as an amateur in Cuba, he’s incredibly well-built for a 122-pounder, and I’m predicting he will be a world champion before the end of 2023.”

Tickets for the fights will be on sale this Friday, April 15th through the Hialeah Park website at www.hialeahpark.com

LOS ANGELES (April 13, 2022) – Boxing’s most beloved heavyweight fighter, Gerry Cooney is set as the special VIP Guest at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino on the April 21st fight card. The event features Golden Boy returning to its Coachella Valley home and is headlined by Palmdale’s Joel Diaz, Jr. (26-2, 22 KOs) and San Diego’s Mercito “No Mercy” Gesta (32-3-3, 17 KOs) in a 10-round super lightweight battle. The co-main event of the night Jousce “Tito” Gonzalez (11-0-1, 10 KOs) from Glendora, CA, will face Jairo Lopez (27-14, 17 KOs) of Apodaca, Mexico in an 8-round lightweight bout. Also on the card, San Diego’s top prospect Jorge Chavez (1-0, 1 KOs) is scheduled for a 4-round super featherweight fight. Undefeated prospect Manuel Flores (11-0, 8 KOs) of Coachella, CA, will take on the experienced Victor Ruiz (23-12, 16 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico in an 8-round super bantamweight fight. Also, part of the DAZN broadcast, Los Cabos, Mexico’s Jan Salvatierra (7-1, 3 KOs) will participate in a 6-round flyweight event, and Hawaii’s Asa Stevens (2-0, 1 KOs) is scheduled for a 4-round bantamweight bout. All the fights will be streamed live, exclusively, on DAZN worldwide starting at 6:00 p.m. PT / 9:00 p.m. ET.

Best known for his epic battles against George Foreman and Larry Holmes, Gerry Cooney challenged for the WBC and Lineal Heavyweight World Championship titles in 1982 and the Lineal Heavyweight World Championship in 1987. The heavy-handed, Cooney compiled a professional record of 28 wins and 3 losses, with 24 knockouts and not one of his fights ever went the distance. He is currently ranked number 53 on The Ring’s list of “100 Greatest Punchers of All Time” and according to George Foreman, Gerry Cooney was one of the three hardest punchers he had faced in his career. As the VIP guest, Cooney will be in attendance for the fights and will be on hand to meet fans, sign autographs and take pictures inside the Fantasy Springs Special Events Center before the DAZN livestream begins. The meet-and-greet is open to the public with the purchase of a ticket to the event.

Tickets for Diaz Jr. vs. Gesta are on sale now and are priced at $45, $35 and $25 plus applicable facility fees and service charges. Tickets are available at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino box office, by calling 1-800-827-2946, or by purchasing online at www.fantasyspringsresort.com.

Diaz, Jr. vs. Gesta is a 10-round super lightweight fight presented by Golden Boy. The event was sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle.” The fight will take place on Thursday, April 21 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, CA, and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN.

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 #DiazJrGesta #GBFightNight

Los Angeles, CA (April 13, 2022) Following up on their Just Released Massive Schedule of Extraordinary Events in 2022, Triller Fight Club has announced a Mega-Heavyweight Clash between Former Unified Heavyweight World Champion Andy ‘The Destroyer’ Ruiz Jr., (34-2, 22 KOs), of Imperial, CA and Top Rated and Undefeated Contender Tyrone ‘King of the Ring’ Spong, (14-0, 13 KOs) of Paramaribo, Suriname set for Saturday, July 16 and emanating from the historic Plaza de Toros in Mexico City, Mexico.

The ten-round main event will headline a tremendous boxing card broadcast on Pay-Per-View. The entire broadcast will be produced by Nigel Lythgoe, award-winning producer of “So You Think You Can Dance” and “American Idol” who has brought his captivating new look and feel of combat sports to Triller Fight Club events as the creative partner, visionary and executive producer. Information on advance tickets for the live event will be forthcoming.

“Triller Fight Club is dedicated to delivering a steady roster of content with something for everyone. This mega-event is set to give the most discerning boxing and MMA fans the most exciting fight of the year while surrounding it with a festival that is sure to deliver for all ages, combat sports fans or not,” said Lythgoe.

The 32-year-old Ruiz shocked the sports world, becoming the first Mexican heavyweight world champion on June 1, 2019, with a remarkable seventh-round knockout of undefeated, unified world champion Anthony Joshua at Madison Square Garden. Most recently, Ruiz was victorious in dominant fashion with a 12-round unanimous decision over former world title challenger Chris Arreola on May 1, 2021, in Carson, CA.

The popular fan-favorite Ruiz is guided by perennial Trainer of the Year, Eddy Reynoso, who counts boxing’s #1 Pound-for-Pound Fighter Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez and World Champion Oscar Valdez among his stable in San Diego, CA.

A world champion kickboxer with a wealth of international accolades, the heavy-handed Spong, currently training in South Florida, returns to the squared circle following a second-round knockout of Jeyson Minda in Merida, Mexico. Eleven of his thirteen knockouts have come within the first two rounds of his fourteen victories. He is the holder of the WBC Latino Heavyweight and WBO Latino Heavyweight Titles.

“Triller and Fight Club like to trailblaze. We have high expectations for this event. It matches the world’s best heavyweights in boxing and MMA in a battle to determine who is the best. Surrounding it with a Trillerfest where the best musicians, Verzuz, sports, and celebrity events will bookend this historic fight,” said David Tetreault, President of Triller Fight Club.

Opened in 1946, Plaza de Toros is the world’s largest bullring. In 2004, It played host to the third fight between Mexican legend Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and former world champion Frankie Randall.

A full schedule of events and additional fights for this evening of world-class boxing will be announced shortly.

                                                            ——————————

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

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

This Triller Fight Club PPV event will be carried in North America across all traditional PPV TV platforms, including cable, satellite & telco TV PPV providers, including Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Fios, and Optimum (U.S.), among others, as well as leading operators in Canada. It will also be offered to commercial outlets via Joe Hand Promotions and globally via digital streaming to all major outlets.

                                                      ————————————-

**HOW TO WATCH THE July 16 event via Worldwide Streaming **

Digitally broadcast via FITE

 and all FITE mobile, Smart TV, IPTV, game controller, and OTT apps, as well as the event microsite hub: TrillerFightClub.com

Follow Triller Fight Club on social media: 

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

Facebook: @TrillerFightClub

Boxing-media company Fightstars.tv, proudly announces their Director of Female Boxing Operations, Rick Ramos, has signed two-time Chicago Golden Gloves Champion, National Amateur Championships finalist and once-beaten professional Olivia Curry (4-1, 2 KOs) to their team of female fighting stars.

Originally from Cincinnati, Curry was a kickboxer until an Ong-Bak movie she watched in college gave her an interest in the sweet science. “There was a gym nearby with a student discount. I took a class and it slowly took over my life until I switched over to amateur boxing and eventually turned pro,” laughed Curry.

Tall for a female middleweight at 5’ 9”, Curry is a more of a technical stylist with a great jab and a strong ability to adapt inside the ropes. “I really love the intellectual chess game of boxing,” she continued. “I have punching power which is hopefully exciting to watch, but I’m definitely more of a boxer than a brawler. You don’t’ get into boxing if you’re not competitive. I want to prove I can hang with the best fighters in the world and compete for world titles.”

A resident of The Windy City for the past two decades, Curry trains at Unanimous Boxing Gym with Head Coach Trinidad Garcia. She says the deal with Fightstars.tv is a great opportunity for her career.

“I’ve known Rick for a long time from the Chicago scene,” she explained. “I’ve sparred his fighters and still do and we have talked him about working with him in the past. He and my coach know each other well. So, he came to me and Trinidad to talk early this year and we thought the Fightstars.tv deal Rick brought to the table was a great opportunity. I’m very excited for the future because I feel I have reached a point in my career where I want more elite-level competition.”

Ramos says he’s happy to finally be working with Curry.

“I’ve known Olivia for a while now.,” he recounted, “we are from the same city. She’s always been tough and ready to fight. I’m excited to work with her because there are BIG money fights in her weight class (160).”

Curry, who will make her fighting debut under the Fightstars.tv banner this coming May in Iowa, says signing with Fightstars.tv comes as she’s rededicating herself to the sport after some soul searching.

“I looked at the pandemic as a wakeup call,” said Curry. “It was either time for me to go on to something else or re-dedicate myself. I thought about it and I didn’t feel done. I love the intensity of the sport. I thought it was time to take the next step and this is it. I still feel like I have so much to learn about the sport, if you look at someone’s career as bell curve, I’m still on my way up. So I want to become the best fighter I can be and have exciting entertaining fights that make people think this woman deserves to be here.”

#

Fightstars.tv are passionate advocates for female boxing. Currently opening additional facilities in Florida, New York and Chicago to match their existing spaces in San Diego, Las Vegas and Los Angeles, Fightstars.tv has created a productive training environment with resources geared exclusively toward female boxing. Fightstars.tv is looking for the next generation of female fighting stars! Talented female fighters with established amateur boxing backgrounds and a desire to reach their full potential should contact Rick Ramos at: RickRamosBoxing50@gmail.com.

One of the fastest-emerging boxing-media companies in the world, fightstars.tv is a radically ambitious new subscription-based content-provider service offering world-class fights, gloves-off interviews, behind-the-scenes scoops and fight coverage from some of the biggest names in boxing to fans worldwide.

For more information on fightstars.tv, please visit their OFFICIAL SITE.

St. Petersburg, FL (April 13, 2022) – Undefeated middleweight Connor “The Kid” Coyle has arrived in Florida for training camp with Head Trainer Jim McLaughlin ahead of his May 21 NABA middleweight title showdown against Antonio Todd at the Caribe Royale in Orlando, FL.

Splitting time between his native Northern Ireland and Florida, Coyle’s amassed a perfect 15-0 record with 7 wins by knockout. On February 19, Coyle broke down once-beaten Rodrigo Rodrigues en route to a fifth round stoppage.

Born and raised in Atlanta, GA, Todd’s record is a deceptive 13-5 with 7 wins by KO. During the last year and a half, he’s amassed an impressive 6-1-1 record. Todd earned his biggest win to date on January 22, scoring a ten round majority decision over longtime contender Hugo Centeno Jr.

“Todd is very tough but this is the kind of fight I need,” said Coyle. “He’s much better than his record suggests and a few of his losses were close fights against top opponents. I’m happy to be back in Florida and know this is going to be a tough camp because I’ve got to be at my best to take home the NABA title on May 21.”

Coyle’s promoter, Jody Caliguire of Fire Fist Boxing, sees a win over Todd leading to much larger opportunities.

“Antonio Todd is no pushover and Connor has to be at his best if he wants to win impressively. This fight is on a great platform on Bally Sports Network and for the NABA title. If everything goes as planned, Connor will be rated as one of the top 15 middleweights in the world and the opportunities are limitless!”

Coyle-Todd will air on Bally Sports Network, the Bally App and Display TV.as part of the Bally Sports Entrobox Series at 9 PM ET.

Tickets from $45 are on sale at Ticketmaster.com. Doors open at 5 pm and the opening bell is scheduled for 6.

Fans can contact Coyle on Instagram @Connor_the_kid_coyle and for more information on Fire Fist Boxing Promotions, visit Firefistboxing.net.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA (April 13, 2021) —  It’s back to work for Eumir Felix Marcial, the Philippines’ 2021 middleweight Olympic Bronze medalist, who scored his first professional knockout victory on April 9, on the undercard of the Erickson Lubin – Sebastian Fundora title fight in Las Vegas.  Marcial (2-0, 1 KO), a native of Zamboanga, Philippines, now training in Las Vegas, displayed the composure of a seasoned veteran to score a TKO of Isiah Hart (6-3-1, 4 KOs), of Mays Landing, N.J., at the 47-second mark of the fourth-round despite getting knocked down three times himself, once in the first round and twice in the second round in a firefight bout scheduled for six rounds.  That’s a lot of experience to get for a fighter in only his second professional fight.  Marcial, 26, will put his amateur jersey back on and depart for the Philippines on Wednesday to join the National Team as he prepares to win his fourth consecutive Southeast Asian (SEA) Games middleweight title, the first step toward gearing up to qualify for the 2024 Olympic team.  His previous Sea Games Gold medals were won in 2015, 2017, and 2019.   

“I was happy that I won Saturday night against Isiah Hart.  I need to go back to the drawing board and fix a few things and I will be back stronger,” said Marcial.  “But first I will return to the Philippines for a few days of rest and then I will head to Thailand to train for the Southeast Asian Games which will be held in Vietnam.  I look to take my fourth straight gold medal.  It takes hard work to do that and I promise my full commitment to the Philippines in the upcoming SEA Games.  I would like to thank Senator Pacquiao and MP Promotions’ Sean Gibbons for all their support.  I look forward, as always, to bringing pride and honor  to the Philippines.  Lastly, thank you to all my fans for their continuous support.” 

“Wow!  What a fight Eumir had on Saturday night!  They say you truly don’t know a man until his is knocked down, and in Eumir’s case it was three times, and how they get up. Well, we found out that Eumir has tremendous Filipino heart and his will to win emanates from it,” said Sean Gibbons, President of MP Promotions.  “I am so proud of how Eumir came back from adversity in the first few rounds and came on to stop Isiah Hart in the fourth round.  It was a great learning lesson.  We will make a few changes and then move on to bigger things.  Also, I support Eumir in his quest  to win his fourth consecutive Sea Games gold medal.  It is a great way to prepare for his third pro fight in July or August.  Senator Pacquiao also supports Eumir in his quest for Sea Games gold and representing the Philippines.”

After winning his pro debut — a four-round unanimous decision over Andrew Whitfield in Los Angeles on Dec. 16, 2020 — Marcial turned his attention to getting prepared for the 2021 Olympics in Tokyo.  In one of the most exciting bouts of the 2021 summer games, Marcial and top-seeded Oleksandr Khyzhniak, of Ukraine, battled tooth and nail in their semifinal battle.  Khyzhniak, who would move on to win the Silver medal, pulled it out in the third and final round by the narrowest of margins.  Marcial won the Bronze.  Another high water mark in Marcial’s amateur career was capturing a Silver medal at the 2019 World Boxing Championships.

Manchester, England – (April 13, 2022) – The BOXXER Series heads to Manchester on Saturday May 14 with an all-action, one-night tournament which will see eight of the nation’s brightest cruiserweight prospects battle it out live on Sky Sports, the UK’s biggest sports television platform.

Substantial prize money and career-breakout opportunities are on the line in a tournament which will showcase the depth of talent in one of British boxing’s most competitive divisions.

Among the names currently making waves in the cruiserweight division are world title prospect Richard Riakporhe, rising star Viddal Riley and British championship contender Mikael Lawal, who himself broke into the BOXXER ranks by winning the 2019 cruiserweight tournament.

The tournament winner – and any tournament participants who win fans with a standout performance – will emerge with a chance to break into that upper echelon and seize advantageous future career opportunities for themselves.

These are the eight boxers stepping up to take their shot in Manchester at the Victoria Warehouse on Saturday, May 14, live on Sky Sports:

Ricky Reeves (2-0, 1 KO)

Sheffield

Jay Farrell (9-2, 5 KO’s)

Liverpool

Ellis Zorro (11-0, 6 KO’s)

Lewisham

Jamie Smith (3-0, 2 KO’s)

Amersham

Anees Taj (5-1, 4 KO’s)

Watford

Ryan Cotterell (1-0)

Walsall

Sheldon McDonald (3-0, 1 KO)

Sheffield

Jack Fay (1-0-1)

Darwen

BOXXER Series events feature an eight-man, one-night tournament: four quarter-finals, two semi-finals and a grand final.

The victorious boxer takes the lion’s share of the prize fund for one-night tournament boxing while every boxer in the tournament has the chance to put a spotlight on himself by putting on a standout performance on the nation’s biggest sports television platform.

Featuring a mix of rising stars and top prospects competing under short-form boxing rules (3 x 3 minute rounds), BOXXER SERIES tournaments offer an unparalleled platform for grassroots British boxing and can send winner’s names rocketing up the rankings list.

Promising non-stop action from start to finish, BOXXER SERIES events are touring every major city in the UK and will feature each region’s best boxing talent, rising stars and local heroes.

Sign up today at Boxxer.com for first access to tickets

Registered fans will be first in line to access the best seats before tickets go on sale to the general public.

BOXXER proudly presents this event in association with bet365, Everlast, Wow Hydrate and Village Hotels.

NEW YORK, NY (April 12, 2022) – This Friday, April 15, celebrity chef and boxing enthusiast Chris Santos will join DiBella Entertainment’s commentary team at Detroit’s Garden Theater for the 116th edition of the long-running Broadway Boxing series. He will call the action alongside noted boxing journalist Corey Erdman, New York Yankees reporter Justin Shackil and Dan Canobbio, of Jomboy Media. The event, promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Lee Baxter Promotions, presented by Nissan of Queens, will be streamed live and exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading streaming service for combat sports, starting at 8:30pm ET / 5:30pm PT.

“I couldn’t be more excited to make my on-air commentary debut for the sport that has been my passion for over 40 years. From sitting on my grandfather’s lap watching Larry Holmes vs. Ken Norton, to becoming hooked on Marvin Hagler, to spending 15 years at Gleason’s Gym, to Wild Card Gym where I currently train under the watchful eye of Hall of Fame coach Freddie Roach and Marvin Somodio, to being featured in Ring Magazine, my journey through boxing has been magical,” said Chris Santos, Co-Founder and Executive Chef of Beauty & Essex. “To be able to put all these years of experience as a student of the sport to use ringside is truly a dream come true and I can’t thank Lou DiBella and the entire DiBella Entertainment team enough for giving me this opportunity, and I can’t wait for April 15. See you at the fights.”

Headlining the card will be heavyweight knockout artist Mike Balogun (18-0, 14 KOs), of Upper Marlboro, MD, facing Mexican Sergio Ramirez Marin (20-7, 12 KOs), from Tijuana. Coming off of the impressive first-round knockout of Trey Lippe Morrison in December, the athletic Balogun is a former college football standout who started for the legendary Oklahoma Sooners before playing in the NFL for three years. Popular Detroit bantamweight Ja’Rico O’Quinn (14-1-1, 8 KOs) battles Filipino Jobert Alvarez (20-2-2, 7 KOs), from Renton, WA, in the co-feature.

The televised undercard also includes unbeaten super featherweight Joshafat Ortiz (9-0, 5 KOs), of Reading, PA, squaring off against Derrick Murray (15-4, 5 KOs), of Saint Louis, MO, and heavyweight prospect Michael Pirotton-Bamogo (5-0, 2 KOs), of Liege, Belgium, making his US debut against fellow undefeated Jonathan Gruber (3-0, 2 KOs), of Fall River, MA. Featherweight Sean Brewer (2-0, 1 KO), of Henderson, NV, will take on Floridian Dominique Williams on the off-TV undercard.

Tickets, which start at $65.00, are on sale now through Eventbrite HERE. The Garden Theater is located at 3929 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201. Doors will open on the night of the event at 6:30pm ET, with the first bell at 7:00pm ET.

Chef Chris Santos has over 25 years of experience as an executive chef in New
York City’s hottest restaurants as well as his expansions on the West Coast. He is the
Co-Founder and Executive Chef of Beauty & Essex Restaurants in the Lower East Side, at the Cosmopolitan Las Vegas, and in Hollywood, CA. He oversees the menu development and culinary operations of all three properties with more locations in the works.

Santos released his first cookbook in 2017 to critical acclaim, titled, “SHARE – Delicious and Surprising Recipes to Pass Around Your Table”. In addition to his three restaurants, he has been a series regular and sitting judge on Food Network’s hit series “Chopped” since its debut in 2008, and is a two-time “Chopped” champion himself. Santos has also been featured on NBC’s TODAY Show, CBS’s Early Show, The Martha Stewart Show, and The Rachael Ray Show, among many others.

(April 12, 2022) — Top Rank on ESPN will be at London’s Wembley Stadium on Saturday, April 23 to capture the all-English heavyweight battle between WBC/Lineal/Ring Magazine heavyweight champion Tyson “The Gypsy King” Fury and WBC interim titleholder Dillian “The Body Snatcher” Whyte. 

ESPN+ Pay-Per-View will stream the event LIVE in the United States at 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT, with the undercard to stream on ESPN+ at 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT. ESPN will also air a special Fury vs. Whyte Pre-Show on ESPN beginning at 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT. Purchase the ESPN+ PPV here.

Fury (31-0-1, 22 KOs) will defend his crown against WBC interim champion Whyte (28-2, 19 KOs) in front of a record 94,000 fans, the largest Wembley Stadium has ever hosted and the most fans to witness a boxing event in person since 1993. The Whyte showdown marks Fury’s first bout in London since February 2015.

Calling the action will be Joe Tessitore (play-by-play), former two-division world champion Timothy Bradley Jr. (analyst) and former pound-for-pound #1, two-division world titleholder and 2004?Olympic gold medalist Andre Ward (analyst). The desk team will feature analysis from Mark Kriegel and Bernardo Osuna.  

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

About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 21.3 million subscribers.

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).

Los Angeles, CA (April 12, 2022) Trilller Fight Club has announced a slate of national and international events for the balance of 2022 incorporating world class professional boxing, Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) and Triad Combat. 

“When we started Triller Fight Club over a year ago the goal was to see if we could bring excitement to combat sports and deliver a product that Gen Z would love. Between Triad Combat, TrillerVerz and large fight club events we have done just that,” said Ryan Kavanaugh. 

“Now that we have perfected the product it’s time to roll out a consistent schedule so we can dominate combat sports.” 

Each event is produced by Superstar Nigel Lythgoe, visionary and producer of “So You Think You Can Dance” and “American Idol” who has brought this new look and feel of combat sport to the forefront. 

“While we are increasing our volume, we will not sacrifice on quality or on making sure that each event is packed with the excitement people have come to expect from fight club events. Each event will deliver broad four quadrant programming. Triller Fight Club is certain to be number one,” continued Kavanaugh.

The Triller Fight Club system creates a multi-tiered outcome: superstars, premium world class fighters and top prospects through it’s entertaining and diverse events. 

n  Trilller Fight Club’s ‘Blockbuster Boxing Cards will be tent pole events featuring world ranked fighters, celebrity commentary and epic musical performances.

n  Triller Fight Club’s Premium Boxing Events will showcase world championship boxing featuring top contenders with unmatched entertainment and music. 

n  Trilller Fight Club Boxing Club Shows will feature rising prospects and future stars in evenly matched bouts. 

n  Triad Combat Premium Events will feature top MMA fighters facing off against top boxing contenders in the revolutionary triangle ring.

n  Triad Combat Club Shows will give young MMA fighters a chance to face off with top boxing prospects in the revolutionary triangle ring. 

The award winning Lythgoe is also developing a new unscripted competition series, “So You Think You Can Fight.” The highly anticipated series will launch later this year.

Below is a full listing of events scheduled for the balance of 2022.

Thursday, April 21 — BKFC Fight Night, Fort Lauderdale, FL

Saturday, April 30 — BKFC-24, Great Falls, MT

Friday, May 6 — BKFC-25, Orlando, FL

Saturday, May 7 — BKFC Thailand 2, Pattaya, Thailand

Friday, May 13 — BKFC Fight Night, Omaha, NE

Saturday, May 14 – TrillerVerz V, Los Angeles, CA

Friday, June 10 — Triad Combat Club Show, Orange County, CA

Saturday, June 25 — Boxing Premium Event, Las Vegas, NV

Friday, July 15 — Boxing Club Show, Mexico City, MX

Saturday, July 16 — Blockbuster Boxing Event, Mexico City, MX

Saturday, July 30 — Triad Combat Premium Event

Friday, August 5 —  Triad Combat Club Show

Saturday, August 27 — Boxing Premium Event

Friday, September 16 — Boxing Club Show

Saturday, September 24 – Triad Combat Premium Event

Friday, October 7 — Triad Combat Club Show

Saturday, October 29 – Boxing Premium Event

Saturday, November 12 – Triad Combat Premium Event

Friday, November 25 – Boxing Club Show

Saturday, November 26 – Blockbuster Boxing Event

Saturday, December 3 – Boxing Premium Event

Saturday, December 17 – Triad Combat Premium Event

                                                 —————————————-

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

In December 2021, Triller entered into a definitive merger agreement with SeaChange International, Inc. (NASDAQ: SEAC), in a transaction that would result in the combined company being named TrillerVerz Corp., and its common stock will be listed on Nasdaq, subject to completion of the conditions listed in the S4, which was filed recently by SeaChange (NASD: SEAC).

Follow Triller Fight Club on social media: 

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NEW YORK (April 12, 2022) – The New York State Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF) stacked Class of 2121 will be honored Sunday afternoon (12:30-5:30 p.m. ET), May 1, at the 10th NYSBHOF induction dinner, sponsored by Ring 8, at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.

Living boxers heading into the NYSBHOF include Brooklyn WBO Heavyweight World Champions Jamaica’s Michael Bentt (11-2, 6 KOs), also a 4-time New York Golden Gloves gold medalist, and Shannon “The Cannon” Briggs (60-6-1, 53 KOs); Albany’s 3-time World light middleweight titlist Verno Phillips (42-11-1, 2 KOs), WBC Light Heavyweight World Champion Donny “Golden Boy” Lalonde (42-11-1, 21 KOs), Staten Island’s WBC World Light Heavyweight Champion Johnny “The Heat” Verderosa (41-5-1, 33 KOs), Mount Vernon’s 2-time World title challenger and No. 1 ranked welterweight contender Larry “No Fear” Barnes (44-3-1, 17 KOs), and Brooklyn’s welterweight Johnny Turner (42-6-2, 32 KOs)

Posthumous participants being inducted World Lightweight Champion Bronx’ Al Singer (62-9-2, 26 KOs), World’s Colored Light Heavyweight Champion Kid Norfolk (88-25-7, 49 KOs), Brooklyn’s lightweight Pasquale Patsy Giovanelli (44-7-1, 14 KOs), Brooklyn’s World Bantamweight Champion Cannonball Eddie Martin (81-12-4, 29 KOs), New York City’s World Light Heavyweight title challenger Battling Siki (60-24-4, 31 KOs), Brooklyn’s Novice New York Golden Gloves and Intercity Golden Gloves champion Solly Krieger (82-25-6 , 54 KOs), New York City’s No. 1 world ranked middleweight contender Herbie Kronowitz (55-23-5, 10 KOs), Buffalo’s World featherweight champion Tommy Paul (80-28-10, 26 KOs), and Brooklyn’s World Bantamweight Champion and US Olympian Lou Salica (67-17-12, 13 KOs).

Living non-participants heading into the NYSBHOF are judge Queens New York Golden Gloves finalist, inspector and licensed judge Ron McNair, promoter/manager/matchmaker Don Elbaum, New York City journalists Ed Schuyler of New York City and Bill Verigan, New York City author/journalist Tom Hauser, Queens author/journalist/ Mike Silver, and Brooklyn’s Jill Diamond, Secretary of the World Boxing Council and International Chair or WBC Cares.

Posthumous non-participant inductees are Brooklyn’s trainer and Stillman’s gym owner Lou Stillman, New York City’s promoter/manager Bill Cayton, NYC Mayor James Walker who legalized boxing in NY, publicists John Condon, of Queens, and New York City’s Irving Rudd, Brooklyn’s journalist Richard K. Fox, and trainer Victor Valle.

Each attending inductee (or direct descendant of) will receive a custom-designed belt signifying his or her induction into the NYSBHOF.

The 2021 inductees were selected by the NYSBHOF nominating committee members: Randy Gordon, Henry Hascup, Don Majeski, Jim Monteverde and Neil Terens.

All boxers needed to be inactive for at least three years to be eligible for NYSBHOF induction, and all inductees must have resided in New York State for a significant portion of their boxing careers or during the prime of their respective career.

NYSBHOF

CLASS of 2012: Carmen Basilio, Mike McCallum, Mike Tyson, Jake LaMotta, Riddick Bowe, Carlos Ortiz, Vito Antuofermo, Emile Griffith, “Sugar” Ray Robinson, Gene Tunney, Benny Leonard, Tony Canzoneri, Harold Lederman, Steve Acunto, Jimmy Glenn, Gil Clancy, Ray Arcel, Nat Fleischer, Bill Gallo and Arthur Mercante, Sr.

CLASS of 2013: Jack Dempsey, Johnny Dundee, Sandy Saddler, Maxie Rosenbloom, Joey Archer, Iran Barkley, Mark Breland, Bobby Cassidy, Doug Jones, Junior Jones, James “Buddy” McGirt, Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, Bob Arum, Shelly Finkel, Tony Graziano, Larry Merchant, Teddy Brenner, Mike Jacobs, Tex Rickard and Don Dunphy.

CLASS OF 2014: Floyd Patterson, Tracy Harris Patterson, Billy Backus, Kevin Kelley, Juan LaPorte, Gerry Cooney, Mustafa Hamsho, Howard Davis, Jr., Lou Ambers, Jack Britton, Terry McGovern, Teddy Atlas, Lou DiBella, Steve Farhood, Gene Moore, Angelo Prospero, Whitey Bimstein, Cus D’Amato, William Muldoon and Tom O’Rourke.

CLASS OF 2015: Saoul Mamby, Joey Giamba, Johnny Persol, Harold Weston, Lonnie Bradley, Paul Berlenbach, Billy Graham, Frankie Genaro, Bob Miller, Tommy Ryan, Jimmy Slattery, Bob Duffy, Mike Katz, Tommy Gallagher, Bruce Silverglade, Charley Goldman, Jimmy Johnston, Cedric Kushner, Harry Markson, Damon Runyon, and Al Weill.

CLASS OF 2016: Aaron Davis, Charles Murray, Vilomar Fernandez, Edwin Viruet, Hector “Macho” Camacho, Rocky Graziano, Rocky Kansas, Joe Lynch, Joe Miceli, Ed Brophy, Joe DeGuardia, Randy Gordon, Dennis Rappaport, Howie Albert, Freddie Brown, Howard Cosell, Ruby Goldstein, and Jimmy Jacobs.

CLASS OF 2017: Gaspar Ortega, Renaldo “Mr.” Snipes, Doug Dewitt, “The Bronx Bomber” Alex Ramos, Dick Tiger, Jose Torres, “Nonpareil” Jack Dempsey, Don Majeski, Ron Katz, Stan Hoffman, Bobby Bartels, Hank Kaplan, Al Gavin, Arthur Donovan, and Dan Parker.

CLASS OF 2018: Lou “Honey Boy” Del Valle, Jake Rodriguez, Terrence Alli, “Baby” Joe Mesi, Kid Chocolate, James J. “Gentleman Jim” Corbett, Jack McAuliffe, Billy Costello, Melio Bettina Ralph “Tiger” Jones, Charley Norkus, Dave Anderson, Pete Brodsky, Herb Goldman, Bobby Goodman, Melvina Lathan, Ron Scott Stevens, Johnnie Addie, Johnny Bos, Murray Goodman, Bert Randolph Sugar, and Sam Taub.

No class of 2019 due to COVID-19 restrictions

CLASS OF 2020: Jorge Ahumada, Alfredo Escalera, Freddie Liberatore, Dennis Milton; Lou Savarese and Merqui Sosa, Soldier Bartfield, Steve Belloise, Jimmy Goodrich, Tami Mauriello, Davey Moore, Freddie “The Welsh Wizard” Welch, Don Ackerman, Bobby Cassidy, Jr., Rick Glaser, Jack Hirsch, Max Kellerman, Dr. William Lathan, Julie Lederman, Ron Lipton, Kevin Rooney, Dan Daniel, Bobby Gleason, Flash Gordan, A.J. Liebling, Tony Mazzarella, and manager Dan Morgan.

Tickets are priced at $125.00 per adult and $60.00 for children (under 16) and include a complete brunch and cocktail hour upon entry, starting at 12:30 p.m. ET, as well as dinner (prime rib, fish, or poultry) and open bar throughout the day. Tickets are available to purchase by contacting NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy at 516.313.2304 or depcomish@aol.com. Ads for the NYSBHOF program are available, ranging from $80.00 to $200.00, by contacting Duffy. Go online at www.nyboxinghof.org or www.Ring8ny.com for additional information about the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.

ABOUT RING 8: Formed in 1954 by an ex-prizefighter, Jack Grebelsky, Ring 8 became the eighth subsidiary of what was then known as the National Veteran Boxers Association – hence, RING 8 – and today the organization’s motto remains: Boxers Helping Boxers.

RING 8 is fully committed to supporting less fortunate people in the boxing community who may require assistance in terms of paying rent, medical expenses, or whatever justifiable need.

Go online to www.Ring8ny.com for more information about RING 8, the largest group of its kind in the United States with more than 350 members. Annual membership dues are only $30.00, and each member is entitled to a buffet dinner at RING 8 monthly meetings, excluding July and August. All active boxers, amateur and professional, are entitled to a complimentary RING 8 yearly membership. Guests of Ring 8 members are welcome at a cost of only $7.00 per person.

INFORMATION:

www.nyboxinghof.org

BOSTON (April 12, 2022) – Vertex Promotions returns May 14th with “Mayhem at Mosley’s, featuring the Massachusetts debut of James “Savage” Hagler, the grandson of the late Hall of Famer Marvelous Marvin Hagler, and headlined by undefeated welterweight prospect James “The Slim Reaper” Perella, Saturday night, May 7th at Moseley’s On The Charles in Dedham.

“We’re looking forward to having James fighting less than 20 miles from where his grandfather Marvin Hagler fought out of in Brockton,” Vertex promoter Dave Clark said. “We’re committed to giving local fighters to fight near home and we have three familiar fighters to fans who have attended Vertex shows, as well as three top amateurs making their pro debuts on ‘Mayhem at Moseley’s.’ James Perella is a Vertex favorite and he’s a rising star. We’re continuing to keep local fighters active and giving fans an entertaining night of pro boxing.”

“Savage” Hagler (2-1, 1 KO), fighting out of Atlanta, naturally, is excited to be fighting in the Bay State, where his grandfather Marvelous Marvin fought 35 times as a pro, including world middleweight title defending victories against Tony Sibson, Vito Antuerofermo and Fulgencio Obelmejias, on his way to eventually becoming a Hall of Famer.

“It’s an honor to fight in the same state as my ‘Papa’ fought out of,” James said. “I just want to make sure I destruct and destroy in Hagler fashion.”

Hagler will be in a 4-round super middleweight bout against an opponent to be determined.

Perella action.jpg
(L) James Perella is putting his undefeated record on the line

(picture by Emily Harney/Fightography)

Undefeated Perella (10-0, 7 KOs), fighting out of Mansfield, Massachusetts, is matched against Mexican challenger Edgar “The Tiger” Torres (8-3-1, 4 KOs) in the 8-round main event. A decorated amateur boxer, Perella was a 4-time USA New England Championships and 4-time New England Golden Gloves Champion.

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

Dorchester (MA) featherweight Troy Anderson, Jr. (4-0, 2 KOs), a 2016 Rocky Marciano Tournament champion, and Southbridge (MA) super featherweight Alex Rivera (3-0, 2 KOs) are slated to be in separate 6-rounders.

Making their pro debuts in 4-round bouts are Nashua (NH) middleweight Michael Fontanez, a 2-time New England Golden Gloves Champion, Dorchester super welterweight Zachary Fenton, and Boston super lightweight Anthony Cefalo.

Opponents will soon be announced. Card subject to change.

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

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

?Jordon Murphy (2-0, 1KO), originally from Bensalem, PA, and now residing in Deerfield Beach, FL, will be returning to Bensalem to fight in front of his family and friends in a four-round super featherweight bout on Friday, May 13th at Parx Casino®. I had the pleasure to talk with Jordon Murphy and hear his thoughts on fighting in front of his hometown fans in his last fight at Live! Casino and Hotel in South Philly on February 24th. Jordan’s career is still young, and he does not take for granted the fact that he gets to fight in front of his friends and family at this stage of his career.

JORDON MURPHY Q&A

What are your thoughts on your last fight?

“My thoughts were that it was something new. We expected him to come out wild and everything but being in the ring is something different than watching videos it was a new experience it was a tough fight fighting someone that is wild and non-stop like him, it was a tough fight but we got through it and I wasn’t that impressed with my performance but as long as we got the job done that all that counts and you will be seeing something different for the next fight.”

Did you enjoy fighting at home for your last fight?

“I loved it and I always said that would my dream to fight in front of my family and friends and to do it in my second fight was an amazing experience. I couldn’t ask for more it was wonderful having my family and friends out there it is a different atmosphere than my first fight in Florida so having everyone so close to me in my life around to see that peak like not even a peak on that ladder I have been climbing for years now and to finally be that point to perform in front of them was amazing”

Do you feel this fight is different than your last fight since this one is in your hometown while the last fight was in South Philly?

“Not really we go into every fight doing what we worked on in camp so what we are doing will be the same thing it’s all about just getting used to it being around the crowd and having this arena around you that’s the only difference is the arena the ring and it is different people but we don’t pay attention to that in the ring we just noting different we go in there and do the same stuff we have been working on getting the job done.”

Do you enjoy the pressure of fighting at home?

“I don’t mind the pressure for me I feel like it is not the same for others like my dad for my last two fights when we were backstage, he asked are you nervous? And I said no it’s a dream come true I’m happy to be in the place that I’m at right now at the point where I finally reached my first goal of being a professional boxer and have all there are different experiences, I don’t feel this nervous pressure. I like the crowd that’s why my nickname is jiggy all that stuff excites me. It’s no pressure I like working out I like going to the gym I love boxing and like I love this, and this is my life and what I was raised to do. I’m so used to the pressure I have been on national stages multiple times throughout my career I have had pressure since I was eight years old like being in front of Floyd Mayweather and people the pressure was always on me but now as a pro its something I have gotten used to.”

What are some skills that you want to improve on for this fight?

“In this camp well they fight with Nasir I had a shoulder injury for a little bit and he kind of pulled my arm a little bit in the second round and I wasn’t able to consistently throw that jab like I would have liked to. That is something we are working on to improve this camp is to build that shoulder strength up. we already got what we needed to be done for the shoulder. So we are back to normal and the main focus for this camp is building that jab and getting back to where it used to be and we didn’t even know I had an injury until we got late into camp. So we had to do what we had to we had to fight through the pain and that’s exactly what we did.”

If you have one message for the fans what would it be?

“To my fans and family lie, I appreciate every little thing you guys do for me just clicking the like button on my Instagram is more than enough I’m just blessed to have you around I don’t need anything in return from everyone this is my work I don’t expect anything from everybody I’m going to work regardless but to have my friends and family supporting me as much as they do is more than I could ever ask for and I am truly blessed to have everyone in my corner and on my side supporting mine toward this whole thing ad I promise at the end of all this there will be a return for you all.”

The live boxing event, which is produced by Joe Hand Promotions, will feature a six-round heavyweight bout between Sonny Conto (9-0, 7 KOs) out of Philadelphia, PA going up against Justin Rolfe (7-3-1, 5 KOs) fighting out of Fairfield, ME.

2021 Briscoe “Prospect of the year” Shinard Bunch (18-1-1, 15 KOs) out of Trenton, NJ will look to continue his 17-fight undefeated streak when he competes in an eight-round super lightweight fight.

The always entertaining Christopher Burgos (3-5-1, 1 KO), of North Philadelphia, PA, will face Philip Davis (2-5-1) of Worcester, MA, in a six-round lightweight contest.

Making his debut on the card will be 2014 Pennsylvania Golden Gloves champion Karl Wylie out of Coatesville, PA.

Conor Benn has warned South Africa’s Chris van Heerden that he needs to be prepared for “a whole lot of firepower” when they clash over 12 rounds for the WBA Continental Welterweight Title at the AO Arena in Manchester this Saturday April 16, live worldwide on DAZN (excluding New Zealand and Australia).

‘The Destroyer’ (20-0, 13 KOs) secured a stunning knockout win over former World Champion Chris Algieri last time out in December, taking out the American with a brutal right hand in the fourth round of their top of the bill clash at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool.

Reflecting on his showreel knockout Benn said: “It was the most dramatic finish of my career for sure. It was great that I was able to put in that performance. I just went in there with such confidence. Being confident in the ring… you display it in your defence mechanisms, trust in your reflexes, trust in your power.  

“Having my dad ringside and seeing the raw emotion from him was probably the most rewarding thing out of the whole eight-week camp. Even during the fight and the feeling after the fight. Watching that video back was, me watching someone so genuinely happy for me. Nothing but happiness for his son. That for me is so warming. It made me so emotional watching it.”

The 25-year-old Essex native is yet to come up against a southpaw boxer in his 20 fights to date and is relishing the challenge of locking horns with former IBO 147lbs Champion van Heerden (28-2-1, 12 KOs) – a seasoned veteran who has only been stopped by Errol Spence Jr in 32 professional fights. 

“Every fighter I fight now moving forward is going to be more experienced, but it means nothing to me,” said Benn. “Who they’ve fought and what they’ve done in their career doesn’t matter because they haven’t fought me. I know what I can do and I know what I’m capable of. I believe in my work ethic and I believe in my team. I believe in my mindset and I believe in my physical attributes. I believe in my power and I believe in my boxing ability. Bring me whoever, I’m confident in what I can do.”

‘The Heat’ hasn’t held back with his pre-fight trash talk, labelling Benn an “emotional, angry fighter” who relies solely on his power. Benn is determined to prove his doubters wrong once again and has promised to earn van Heerden’s respect as he aims to take another step towards a World Title shot in the thriving Welterweight division.

“van Heerden is a good fighter, he’s a tricky fighter, he’s a tough fighter. He’s a come forward southpaw and a former World Champion. He’s been in there with the best. First southpaw opponent – they’re definitely hard work that’s for sure. You have to think a lot more. You have to demonstrate a lot more skill. You can’t just go in there with the same approach as you would with an orthodox fighter. 

“He’s wanted this fight for a while. He told me he needed this fight for himself, needed it for closure. We’ve made the fight happen. Hopefully he comes prepared, which I believe he will. He said he doesn’t rate my boxing ability. If you don’t respect me then I’ll make you respect me. Chris van Heerden needs to be ready for a whole lot of firepower. He needs to be ready for someone who fights like he’s got everything to lose.”

Benn vs. van Heerden tops a huge night of action in Manchester, Bournemouth’s European Cruiserweight Champion Chris Billam-Smith (14-1, 10 KOs) rematch Belfast’s former champion Tommy McCarthy (18-3, 9 KOs) following their epic back and forth battle at the Matchroom HQ last summer, WBC and IBO Super-Featherweight World Champion Alycia Baumgardner (11-1, 7 KOs) makes the first defence of her World Titles against Edith Matthysse (17-11-1, 1 KOs) following her shock win over Terri Harper last November, Little Lever’s Jack Cullen (20-3-1, 9 KOs) aims to bounce back from his stoppage loss to Kevin Lele Sadjo in December when he meets Vladimir Belujsky (12-3-1, 8 KOs) over eight rounds, Hyde Lightweight prospect Campbell Hatton (6-0, 2 KOs) quickly returns to action against Lee Glover (11-9, 3 KOs) over six rounds, hard hitting Cruiserweight talent Jordan Thompson (12-0, 10 KOs) clashes with Mariano Angel Gudino (14-5, 9 KOs) over eight rounds, Alnwick Welterweight Cyrus Pattinson (3-0, 1 KO) hopes to make it two wins from two fights in 2022 when he takes on Alexey Tukhtarov (5-28-6, 3 KOs) over eight rounds, Liverpool Light-Heavyweight Thomas Whittaker-Hart (6-0, 3 KOs) faces Ben Ridings (5-1) over six rounds, Salford Super-Lightweight Luke Evans (11-0, 1 KO) locks horns with Miguel Cesario Antin (19-10, 8 KOs) over six rounds while James Metcalfe warms up for his European Middleweight Title fight with a six round contest against Evgenii Vazem (9-26, 4 KOs).

LAS VEGAS, NV (April 11, 2022) – Super bantamweight prospect, Darren “The Gift” Cunningham (15-1, 8 KOS), is set for his next bout as he will take on Angel Antonio Contreras (11-6-2, 6 KOs), on April 29, 2022, in Phoenix, Arizona, at the Celebrity Theater, on a card promoted by Iron Boy Promotions.

“I am excited as I feel better than ever, and I am ready to put the division on notice with a performance that will get me mentioned amongst all the emerging fighters at super bantamweight,” said Cunningham. “My opponent faced a world title contender at featherweight in his last bout and has a lot of experience. That is what I need at this point to become a world title contender. I am fighting a bigger man who has been battle tested, I’m ready.”

Cunningham is no stranger to the Celebrity Theater in Phoenix, Arizona, as he knocked out Ernesto Guerrero in one round in February of this year. This will Cunningham’s third fight in the last six months. He believes that his recent activity has helped him get sharp at this point in his career.”

“I love fighting in Phoenix at the Celebrity Theater where the fans are really loud” said Cunningham reflecting on his last fight. “Many thought my last fight was the best fight of my career. All I can say is staying busy, and fighting routinely, has made me a better fighter. I can’t wait to have another great performance in April!”

LOS ANGELES, Calif. (April 11, 2022) — World Cup Boxing Series (WCBS), co-founded by CEO Terry Hollan and promoter/matchmaker Guy Taylor, today announced it has signed a multi-fight deal with beIN SPORTS to be featured on the network’s free English and Spanish-language streaming and over-the-air channels – beIN SPORTS XTRA and beIN SPORTS XTRA en Español – beginning Friday, June 3rd, live from Obregon, Sonora Mexico.

Combat sports fans will be able to catch all the World Cup Boxing Series action live nationwide on beIN SPORTS XTRA and beIN SPORTS XTRA en Español. The channels are available on major streaming services in the U.S. and Canada including The Roku Channel, Samsung TV Plus, fuboTV, and XUMO TV and additionally in the U.S. on YouTube TV, Pluto TV, Fanatiz, Vizio, and Canela TV as well as over-the-air stations in Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, Dallas – Fort Worth, Houston, San Jose – San Francisco – Oakland, Atlanta, Miami – Fort Lauderdale, San Diego, Salt Lake City, Hartford, Columbus, Las Vegas, and Austin, among others. For a full list of providers, visit beINSPORTSXTRA.com.

“Our goal with beIN SPORTS goes far beyond providing monthly boxing content,” Taylor said. , “We want to create a global brand with state-of-the-art technology, updated graphic packages and artwork, top of the line production, enhanced lighting, fan engagement during the event, social media platforms and LIVE online gaming. We look forward to a great 2022-23 season of World Cup Boxing Series on beIN SPORTS XTRA and beIN SPORTS XTRA Español beginning this June 3rd.

“beIN SPORTS is excited to add World Cup Boxing Series to its growing roster of combat sports programming,” commented Antonio Briceño, Managing Director for beIN SPORTS North America. “We believe in putting our fans first and making live world-class sports programming easily available to fans in the U.S. and Canada via beIN SPORTS XTRA and beIN SPORTS XTRA en Español.”

For more information about beIN SPORTS North America, visit www.beINSPORTS.com and www.beINSPORTSXTRA.com. Follow us on Instagram @beINSPORTSUSA, Twitter at @beINSPORTSUSA and/or @ESbeINSPORTS and like us on Facebook beIN SPORTS USA for breaking news and real-time updates.

INFORMATION:

Facebook: /WorldCupBoxingSeries

Instagram: @World_Cup_Boxing_Series

Schenectady, NY (April 11, 2022) — Championship boxing was in the limelight in Schenectady at Rivers Casino Saturday night, as SIMONE “TYSON” FEDERICI (now, 19-2-1 8KO’s) unified the WBC CA and NABA Gold Cruiserweight Titles outpointing Pittsburgh’s, LYUBOMYR “DEMOLITION MAN” PINCHUK (now, 14-3-1 8KO’s) in an absolutely thrilling main event.

The opening round had the packed crowd on their feet as Federici and Pinchuk came out swinging, looking to establish their respective game plans. Federici began to find success working on the inside, putting efficient punches together with quality speed forcing Pinchuk to work off the back foot. Pinchuk would respond with combinations to the body, attempting to utilize the jab to keep the Italian tank, Federici, at a distance. As the battle of wills continued an accidental clash of heads with a minute left in the fourth round caused a gash over the eye of Federici. Knowing what was on the line both fighters maintained an impressive work rate over the 10-rounds, however it seemed to be Federici’s ability to bully his way inside that would make the difference. The judges saw it in favor of Federici by unanimous decision, who successfully defended his WBC CA title, and became the new NABA Gold Champion (99-91, 97-93 2x).

In 8 rounds of action, Ireland’s, “SUPERFLY” TONY BROWNE (now, 5-1) was successful in his US debut against the tough LEANDRO “APOLLO” SILVA (now, 3-6 2KO’s). Silva came out of the gate looking to control the action, while Browne effectively countered his aggression. In the 5th round, Silva buzzed Browne with an overhand right, but Browne was able to shake it off and power on. Silva kept coming forward trying to find a way in, but Browne continued to successfully work from the outside. Browne would take home the unanimous decision in his US debut (77-75, 78-76, 79-75)

Also making his US debut, 22 year old Irish product, “THE SILENT ASSASIN” RYAN O’ROURKE (now, 8-1 1KO) defeated Frenchman, FAYCAL REZKALLAH (now, 6-2-1 1KO) over 6 rounds. The Schenectady crowd was “oohing” and “ahing” as O’Rourke was landing from impressive angles. While O’Rourke controlled the pace of the fight, Rezkallah had his moments, waiting for O’Rourke to take a beat, before returning the favor in the form of multi punch combinations. O’Rourke’s early work to the body paid dividends in rounds five and six, hurting Rezkallah. The fight would find the final bell, and Ryan O’Rourke would earn the clean sweep on the cards for the unanimous decision victory (60-54 3x).

In the opening bout of the evening MICHELLE COOK (now, 2-3-2) and LIZ TUANI (now, 1-7) impressed in a competitive battle. Tuani came out swinging with force, but Cook was able to weather the storm. Late in the 3rd round, Cook found a home for her right hand knocking Tuani on her heels. At the close of the fight, Cook would get the nod by unanimous decision (39-37 X3)

“The fans came out early and stayed late for a thrilling night of fights at Rivers Casino,” said Star Boxing CEO JOE DEGUARDIA. “Federici and Pinchuk put on one hell of a show, and left it all in the ring – both should be proud. Congratulations to Simone on the victory, and Tony Browne and Ryan O’Rourke for shining in their US debuts.”

Simone Federici shows off his new belts

Browne (R) lands on Silva (L)

O’Rourke (R) shuts out Rezkallah (L)

Team Federici celebrates

About Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady: Located at the picturesque Mohawk Harbor near the heart of downtown Schenectady, Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady features 1,050 slots, 67 live table games and a 16-table poker room and a live, in-casino luxury sportsbook lounge. The casino offers five distinctive restaurants—among them are Dukes Chophouse, Flipt, Johnny’s To-Go and Mian. Rivers features a multipurpose Event Center space, a lively entertainment lounge—Van Slyck’s, live music performances, free parking and daily promotions and giveaways. The Landing Hotel is a 165-room, six-story boutique hotel with riverfront views located adjacent to the Event Center. Rivers, which opened in 2017, employs approximately 1,200 team members and has been voted a great place to work in Schenectady. Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady is owned and operated by Rush Street Gaming and its affiliates. For more information, visit RiversCasino.com/Schenectady.

RockinFights.

STAR BOXING ARCHIVES:
Rockin’ Fights 41: Oleh Dovhun vs Geram Eloyan – NABA Title (Highlights)
OLEH DOVHUN defended his NABA title for the first time against Belgium Bruiser GERAM ELOYAN in the main event at Rockin’ Fights 41!
Rockin’ Fights 35: Tyrone “Pretty Boy” James vs Ray Oliveira Jr.
TYRONE “PRETTY BOY” JAMES left his mark on “Rockin’ Fights” 35 with a vicious TKO victory over RAY OLIVEIRA JR. to remain undefeated!

QUINCY, Mass. (April 11, 2022) – The first professional boxing event in Bridgewater (MA) will be held Saturday night, May 7th, when Granite Chin Promotions presents its third promotional event of 2022, “Hometown Royalty,” at Bridgewater Veterans Club in Bridgewater, Massachusetts (85 Cottage St.).

“Hometown Royalty” is presented by Granite Chin in association with Cappiello Boxing Promotions and Shearns Boxing Promotions.

“I’m excited to be bringing professional boxing to Bridgewater for the first time ever,” Granite Chin president Chris Traietti said. “I was shocked when I found out that this would be the first for the town. It’s going to be a great show and I want to thank Rich Cappiello and Chuck Shearns for their help in making it happen. We are going to pack the Vets hall with amazing boxing fans who have helped Granite Chin grow expeditiously over the last couple of years. This will be the first of many to come to Bridgewater.”

Some of the best and most popular boxers from the South Shore area of the Bay State will be showcased in an intimate setting.

New England Welterweight Champion Mike “Bad Man” Ohan (14-1, 8 KOs), of Holbrook, is dropping down to junior welterweight in the 8-round main event to face Jose “El Chino” Aubel (8-9, 7 KOs), of Argentina.

Quincy lightweight Ryan “The Polish Prince” Kielczweski (30-6, 11 KOs) is matched against another Argentinian, Mario Lozano (18-5-1, 9 KOs), in the 8-round co-featured event. A 2008 National Golden Gloves silver medalist, as well as a 2-time New England Golden Gloves Champion, The 32-year-old Ryan K. has been world rated during his 14-year professional career.

Brockton welterweight David Ribeiro will make his long-awaited pro debut in a 4-round fight versus an opponent to be determined. Ribeiro was a celebrated amateur having won gold medals at the 2020 New England Golden Gloves, 2019 King of the Ring, and the regional Mike Tyson Tournament.

Undefeated New Bedford light heavyweight Edet Mkpanam (6-0, 5 KOs), a 2018 New England Golden Gloves runner-up, throws down with Scott “Bombz” Lampert (2-4, 2 KOs) in a 6-round match.

Fall River (MA) welterweight Damon Towns (4-0, 3 KOs) faces Robert Bricks (0-9) in a 4-rounder.

Card subject to change.

Tickets are on sale, $60.00 standing room and $40.00 floor seats, and available for purchase at www.TicketRiver.com (Search: Hometown Royalty).

INFORMATION:

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

Twitter: @Granite_Chin

ATLANTA, GA – Jolene Mizzone, among the most experienced and well-respected matchmakers in professional boxing for a quarter of a century, announced the launch of newly created company Fighters First Management, offering a fresh approach to athlete representation for today’s generation of talent.

Mizzone, who will lead Fighters First as President of Boxing Operations, honed her skills as Vice President/Matchmaker for Main Events, building great fighters and working with multiple world champions, including Arturo Gatti, Zab Judah, Sergey Kovalev, and Tomaz Adamek.

First Matchmaker to Manager Career Shift

Mizzone is the first mainstream matchmaker and promoter to shift her career in boxing into athlete management. Known for her direct, ‘the truth hurts’ style, Mizzone has always been protective of athletic talent and will continue to fight for them using her unique combination of experience and insights.
“I want to educate fighters as much as possible on the business aspects of boxing,” said Mizzone. “I plan to work hand in hand with our fighters and their teams. As their manager, I’m also an educator. I can give them the tools they need to make smarter long-term decisions about their careers so they can flourish and live well after giving their all to the sport we love.”

“I bring something to the table no other manager brings to boxing today. Being a former promoter and matchmaker, I understand the secret language of matchups and deals. Most of this is kept from the fighters, not always in a malicious way, but never to their long-term benefit. This changes today with Fighters First Management.”

Fighter Signings Anticipated Summer 2022

Mizzone says she will start announcing newly signed fighters by summer 2022.
“The kind of fighters we are looking for are all different types, young up and coming boxers or boxers who may already be established looking for guidance. One thing I know I can do is move a fighter to a championship bout, as long as they keep winning and listening to advice,” said Mizzone.

The new venture is owned by Georgia-based entrepreneur David Basha, owner of Carriage Auto Group with seven locations in the southeastern U.S. Basha, age 62, sought top talent to run his new organization and made Mizzone his first hire.

“Boxing has been a passion of mine for the past 40 years. I have always desired to have a company that represented boxers and protected them in business. To do that, I knew I would need the perfect person to lead the charge, and Jolene is that perfect person,” said Basha.

Mizzone says she learned about the business during her work with Main Events and expressed her gratitude to Hall of Fame promoter Kathy Duva for the opportunity leading to her new venture.

Fighters First will operate as a full-service management company with the fighters’ long-term best interests true to its name and central to all decisions. Fighters First pledges a greater percentage of the purse to its athletes while also educating them on their business and financial future to protect them during and long after their careers in the ring have concluded.

Follow Fighters First Management on social media:
Instagram – @FightersFirstMgmt
Facebook – @FightersFirstMgmt
Twitter – @Fighters1st
TikTok – @Fighters1st

New York, NY (April 11, 2022)-Giovani Santillan was almost flawless in stopping Jeovannis Barraza in round seven of their 10-round welterweight bout.

The bout took place this past Saturday from The Hanger in Costa Mesa, California and was televised live on ESPN.

Santillan, who is managed by Split-T Management, landed power punches from the outset and was on-top of Berraza from the beginning, Santillan started beating up and breaking down Barraza until the bout was stopped at 33 seconds of round seven.

Santillan, 147.4 lbs of San Diego, CA is now 29-0 with 16 knockouts. Barraza, 148.6 lbs of Barranquilla, COL 25-3.

The win solidified Santillan’s spot in bigger stakes fight against any of the top welterweights

Santillan said, “I am humbled by the support of my hometown, San Diego. Once again, they came out in force. They motivate me to do my best every time out there.

“I am going to keep working to earn a welterweight world title shot. I have a great team behind me, and when the time comes, I’ll be ready.”

Santillan is co-promoted by Top Rank and Thompson Boxing.

Photo Credit: Mikey Williams/Top Rank via Getty Images

In what was a sure-fire Fight of the Year candidate. Sebastian Fundora outlasted Erickson Lubin after round nine of their junior middleweight bout at The Virgin Hotels in Las Vegas,

In round two, Fundora dropped Lubin with a left uppercut.

In round seven, Fundora battered Lubin with flush uppercuts that opened up a cut around the right eye of Lubin. Lubin came storming back and rocked Fundora with a vicious combination and sent him to the canvas. That brutal round paved the way as the two slugged it out until round nine, when Fundora landed several more vicious uppercuts. When Lubin went back to the corner, Lubin’s face was swelled to where it was starting to disfigure and Lubin’s trainer Kevin Cunningham pulled the plug on the fight.

Fundora, 152.8 lbs of Cochella, CA is now 19-0-1 with 13 knockouts. Lubin, 153.2 lbs of West Palm Beach, FL is 24-2.

“I think this was probably my best performance ever,” said Fundora. “It was a back-and-forth fight. He really brought his hammer but I decided to bring my drill. The uppercut was landing like no other. The uppercut is my lucky punch. I’m here in Vegas, so I feel a little lucky, and that’s my lucky punch. It lands most of the time with everybody. Southpaw. Right hand. It doesn’t matter. Once I find that, I feel like the job’s done.”

“I got hit with a good punch and I didn’t feel like I needed to get hit again so I took a knee to get a little breather in and I recovered,” said Fundora. “I intentionally took a knee. I knew I had to take a knee because if I kept getting hit like that it wouldn’t be smart for me and I wouldn’t be able to recollect myself.”

“I think it was a good decision for Kevin Cunningham to stop the fight,” said Fundora. “His face shifted from round one to round nine. It completely morphed and there was a lot of blood coming out. He’s a tough fighter. He was in the game the whole time but there’s no need to get hurt that much.”

“I see Charlo winning the fight against Castaño,” said Fundora. “I feel like he’ll be too strong for Castaño the second time. If Castaño wins, that’s great too. I just want to go after all of them. This is the interim belt so I want the world champion title. I want the real deal.”

Harrison Decisions Garcia

Former world champion Tony Harrison won a 10-round unanimous decision over Sergio Garcia in a junior middleweight contest.

Harrison landed 197 of 491 punches; Garcia was 103 of 592.

Harrison, 153,4 lbs of Detroit, MI won by scores of 100-90 twice and 98-92 and is now 29-3-1. Garcia, 152.6 lbs of Spain is 33-2.

“I pitched a shutout against a guy who just fought a guy that’s in the main event right now,” said Harrison. “Muscles are the way in the street, but skills pay the bills.”

“All I needed to do was land one good punch, but I didn’t,” said Garcia. “Harrison fought his fight and was very smart with his jab and his elusiveness, major credit to him.”

“He was swinging for the fences,” said Harrison. “When he was missing shots, all I heard was ‘whoosh!’. I felt it. I was trying to throw a few more counter shots in between. My composure was everything.”

“I can put on a show all I want, but the bottom line is that I need wins and I have two losses in a row instead,” said Garcia. “Reality is that I’m not at a championship level yet, but I’ll keep fighting.”

“The first thing I’m going to do, I haven’t seen my kids in six months,” said Harrison. “I want to see my kids. My step two, I have a gym called Superbad Fitness. Every time it rains, it pours in the inside of my gym. My job is to find guys that can donate to our non-profit to save about a hundred kids that work out in my gym every day. That’s step number two for me. Step number three for me, I’m going to take a vacation.”

Salgado and Perrella fight to a draw

Bryant Perrella and Kevin Salgado fought to a 10-round split draw in a junior middleweight fight.

In round seven, Perrella started swelling under his left eye.

Perrella landed 98 of 503 punches; Salgado was 68 of 375.

Perrella won a card 97-93; Salgado took a card 96-94 and a third call was 95-95.

Salgado, 154.2 lbs of Nicolas Romero, MEX is 14-0-1. Perrella, 153.4 lbs of Pensacola, FL is 17-3-2. This is Perrella’s second consecutive draw.

“I thought my game plan and execution was great,” said Perrella. “I boxed smart. I broke him down. I’m not going to run from him. He was just winging big shots any time I would step in just trying to knock me out with one punch. I kept the jab in his face. Jabs to the body. Left hands. I hurt him. Everything was going great and it looked like I was sweeping all the rounds.”

“I was shocked by the decision,” said Perrella, who fought to a draw against Tony Harrison in his last outing prior to Saturday night. “Two draws in a row. I put my all into this and I get robbed at the end of the day. It’s a tough pill to swallow. I easily out boxed him. He barely landed any punches. I don’t know what more I can do. I did my best. It is what it is.”

“I felt like I won,” said Salgado. “All Perrella did was run around and away from me. Maybe if I had pressured a bit more, that last judge would have leaned more in my favor. Perrella kept throwing his jab but almost never connected. I think that tonight was definitely a positive step in the right direction towards becoming the next Mexican star in the United States, and I look forward to pleasing the fans with more Mexican-style fights in the future”

Las Vegas ­– UFC^® today announced that the classic 2016 fight between featherweights Cub Swanson and Dooho Choi will be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame’s ‘Fight Wing’ as a part of the class of 2022. The 2022 UFC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, presented by Toyo Tires^®, will take place during the 10^th Annual UFC International Fight Week^Ô this summer in Las Vegas and will be streamed live on UFC FIGHT PASS^®.

“The fight between Cub Swanson and Dooho Choi is one of the greatest fights of all time,” said UFC President Dana White. “This fight was an absolute war for all three rounds and both guys left everything they had inside the Octagon, it was crazy! This fight was an incredible display of heart, endurance and determination and it was so good, it was named the 2016 Fight of the Year. Congratulations to Cub Swanson and Dooho Choi on a fight that will always be remembered as one of the best ever!”

As one of the featured main card bouts of UFC^® 206: HOLLOWAY vs. PETTIS, which took place on December 10, 2016, at Air Canada Center in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Swanson and Choi entered the event on winning streaks of two and 12, respectively.

Swanson entered the Octagon^® ranked #4 in the division with a 23-7 record that included victories over current UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira, former interim UFC lightweight champion Dustin Poirier and former Shooto welterweight champion Tatsuya Kawajiri.

Choi, who was ranked #11 in the division, entered the fight having won all three of his previous UFC fights and possessed an impressive overall record of 14-1 that included wins over former Pancrase lightweight champion Shoji Maruyama and former Shooto welterweight champion Mitsuhiro Ishida.

At the beginning of the fight, Swanson and Choi quickly advanced to the center of the Octagon, with Choi striking first with a straight right before clinching and administering multiple knees. On the break, Choi tripped Swanson using his left leg, causing Swanson to slide into in a standing guillotine. With the standing guillotine in place, Choi administered three more knees that created heavy swelling over Swanson’s right eye.

Swanson recovered quickly and began to take control of the fight by dictating the pace and striking first during each exchange, as both athletes would trade flurries of punches, knees and leg kicks throughout the remainder of the first round.

Swanson raced to the center of the Octagon at the beginning of round two, resuming his role as the aggressor and applying consistent pressure with the focus of forcing Choi to fight off of his back foot from a defensive position. This was an in-fight adjustment made by his corner in between rounds, as his team felt that Choi could not maintain an offensive attack from this position.

With 3:55 left in the second, Swanson connected on a barrage of punches and body kicks, driving Choi to the fence and briefly to the ground in an attempt to withstand the continuous shots coming from Swanson.

At the end of the exchange, Choi caught Swanson with a right hook, stunning him and sending him down to one knee. Swanson quickly stood up, but had not fully recovered, so he retreated to the fence and covered up as Choi unleashed his own set of punches, attempting to finish Swanson on his feet. Dazed, but still active on his feet, Swanson survived by using jabs and straight kicks to push Choi outside of striking distance in an attempt to allow himself to recover and survive the attack.

From a clinched position, Swanson took advantage and took Choi down with a judo throw, then immediately moved into a mounted position for the first takedown of the fight. With 2:55 remaining in the second, Swanson took Choi’s back and attempted to secure both hooks, but Choi was able to scramble and evade Swanson’s submission attempt, with Swanson still maintaining full guard position.

Known for his strong ground attack as a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Swanson controlled the action in both half and full guard until letting Choi stand up and resume trading punches. Both athletes swung for the fences with each punch, with Swanson connecting on a rarely used cartwheel kick, which stunned Choi and brought the sold-out crowd of more than 18,000 fans to their feet and into a frenzy of excitement.

Swanson, in control of the round, began to swing wildly, fighting with a more relaxed style with hands down as opposed to the more technical Choi, whose counterpunches rocked Swanson during each exchange. Swanson closed the final 45 seconds of the round by connecting on numerous punches and a spinning backfist that sent Choi to the fence and almost knocked him out on his feet. Both athletes connected with punches to end the round, neither giving an inch.

The non-stop pace continued in round three, with both Swanson and Choi exchanging punches and body kicks in the center of the Octagon. Choi successfully executed a takedown of Swanson with 3:50 left in the round, but Swanson quickly countered to gain top position. After trading punches and elbows on the canvas, Swanson would stand and allow Choi to do the same with 2:55 remaining. Swanson immediately took control of the pace with a barrage of punches that stunned Choi on the fence, before taking Choi back to the canvas via hip toss with 2:32 remaining. Swanson applied pressure via headlock but stood back up with Choi with 2:00 minutes left in the fight.

The slugfest continued for the final minutes of the third round, with Swanson connecting on a Superman punch with 15 seconds left that nearly sent Choi to the ground. Swanson completed one more takedown of Choi before the end of the round, concluding the fight in top position. At the end of the fight, both athletes received a standing ovation from the crowd.

Swanson won the bout via unanimous decision, earning a headlining spot in his next bout against Artem Lobov at UFC FIGHT NIGHT^®: SWANSON vs. LOBOV, which took place four months later on April 22, 2017, in Nashville, Tennessee.

During the event, Swanson and Choi landed a combined 188 significant strikes, the most for a featherweight fight in 2016. Swanson landed 111 of the 188 significant strikes, which also set a high mark as the most by a featherweight in a single bout in 2016. The fight won the Fight of the Night performance award and would be acknowledged by ESPN and the Fighters Only Magazine World MMA Awards as “2016 Fight of the Year.”

Swanson has continued to flourish inside the Octagon, having won three of his last four fights, and he most recently defeated veteran Darren Elkins. He currently holds the record for most post-fight bonuses in UFC featherweight history with nine. Choi would lose his next two fights against Jeremy Stephens and Charles Jourdain, before retiring at the end of 2019 with a 14-4 record. Each of Choi’s final five bouts earned a post-fight bonus.

To view the fight on UFC FIGHT PASS for free, please visit: https://ufcfightpass.com/video/47681

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

Mikaela Mayer remained perfect as she dominated and won a 10-round unanimous decision over Jennifer Han at The Hanger in Costa Mesa, California.

Mayer landed 192 of 586 punches; Han was 63 of 384.

In round four, Han was bleeding from the nose. Mayer pushed the action and was never challenged as she won by scores of 100-90 twice and 99-91.

Mayer 129.8 lbs of Los Angeles is 17-0. Han, 128.8 lbs of El Paso, TX is 18-5-1.

Mayer said, “I feel like I did a lot of good things in there. Her movement, I think, is what she does best and it throws you off. She gets her spacing in a little bit, so I had to throw her off and stay behind the jab. Coach Al {Mitchell} reminded me to stay behind the jab, set the right hand up. She would duck sometimes and make me miss. I started to go to the body. All in all, she’s a tough, durable girl. That’s why we chose her for this fight. We knew she would push me, but I feel like I did well.
 
“I wanted to get the stoppage I feel like I hurt her in the eighth round, almost finished her. This is another reason why I’m advocating for three-minute rounds.
 
“I’ve been pretty clear that I want to go undisputed at 130. {Alycia} Baumgardner and {Hyun Mi} Choi, I’ve been calling them out. I want {either} fight, but if they’re not going to give me that fight in a timely fashion, I’m game to go up and challenge the winner of {Amanda} Serrano versus Katie Taylor.”

Santillan Dominates; Stops Barraza in 7

Santillan landed power punches from the outset and was on-top of Berraza from the beginning, Santillan started beating up and breaking down Barraza until the bout was stopped at 33 seconds of round seven.

Giovani Santillan was almost flawless in stopping Jeovannis Barraza in round seven of their 10-round welterweight bout.

Santillan, 147.4 lbs of San Diego, CA is now 29-0 with 16 knockouts. Barraza, 148.6 lbs of Barranquilla, COL 25-3.

Santillan said, “I am humbled by the support of my hometown, San Diego. Once again, they came out in force. They motivate me to do my best every time out there.

“I am going to keep working to earn a welterweight world title shot. I have a great team behind me, and when the time comes, I’ll be ready.”

Andrew Moloney Stops Mendoza in 8th

Andrew Moloney stopped Gilberto Mendoza in the eighth and final round of their junior bantamweight fight.

Mendoza was cut on his face in round five. In round eight, the pressure was starting to take its toll on Mendoza and Moloney landed two hard shots and the fight was stopped at 2:29.

Moloney, 115.8 lbs of Melbourne, AUS is 23-2 with 15 knockouts. Mendoza, 113.4 lbs of Modesto, CA is 19-12-3.

Floyd Diaz stopped Blake Quintana in round four of their six-round junior featherweight bout.

In round four, Diaz caught Quintana with a perfect right to the soler plexus that put him to a knee for the 10-count at 43 seconds.

Diaz, 122 lbs of Las Vegas is 4-0 with one knockout. Quintana, 120.6 lbs of Kenney, NEB is 4-2.

Duke Ragan remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Diuhl Olguin in a featherweight bout.

Ragan, 126.6 lbs of Cincinnati, OH won by scores of 60-54 on all cards and is now 5-0. Olguin, 125.6 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is 15-22-5.

Jason Moloney won a 10-round unanimous decision over Francisco Javier Pedroza in a bantamweight bout.

Moloney, 119.4 lbs of Melbourne, AUS won by scores of 100-90 and 99-91 twice and is now 23-2. Pedroza, 119.8.8 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 17-11-2.

2021 U.S. Olympian, Ginny Fuchs made a successful pro debut with a fourth round stoppage over Randee Lynn Morales in a flyweight bout.

In round one, Fuchs dropped Morales with a combination that was punctuated with a straight left. In round three, Morales began to swelll around her left eye. Fuchs was dominant and the bout was stopped in round four after Fuchs landed a big uppercut at 24 seconds.

Fuchs, 109.8 lbs of Houston, TX is 1-0 with one knockout. Morales, 110.6 lbs of Albuquerque, NM is 4-4.

Luis Alberto Lopez stopped Raul Chirino in round four of a scheduled eight-round featherweight bout.

Lopez dropped Chirino in round two, twice in round four, and ended it with a body shot at 1:08 of round four.

Lopez, 128 lbs of Mexicali. MEX is 25-2 with 14 knockouts. Chirino, 128.8 lbs of Miami, FL is 19-14.

Ryan Garcia came back from a 160month layoff to drop and take a 12-round unanimous decision over Emmanuel Tagoe at The Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.

In round two, Garcia dropped Tagoe in with an uppercut. Garcia was able to control the ring as he used his size to hurt Tagoe several more times that had the Ghanaian holding on several more times.

Garcia landed 165 of 599 punches; Tagoe was 90 of 391.

Garcia, 138.8 lbs of Victorville, CA won by scores of 119-108 twice and 118-109 and is now 22-0. Tagoe, 138.2 lbs of Accra, GHA is 32-2.

“He was making it difficult for me to end it,” said Ryan Garcia. “He was crafty with the holding, and I was trying to get him off me, and he was moving a lot; it was a new experience. I think I have to cut the ring off better with a guy who will keep moving all 12 rounds. I made sure to get him in the body a lot and used my left hook to hurt him. I have a lot of love for San Antonio. It was great that after a year and a half layoff, I was received by such a great crowd. It’s a blessing. I wanted to knock him out, but he was very crafty. At the moment, I could feel like I hurt him, but he really can take a punch.”

“First of all I want to thank my team,” said Emmanuel Tagoe. “I know the reason why I lost. I didn’t throw my right arm. He came forward but I couldn’t get any points from pushing. I think I’m going to go home and sit down with my team. Ryan Garcia is a good boxer.”

Shane Mosley Jr. Decisions Gabriel Rosado

Shane Mosley Jr. scored the biggest win of his career by winning a 10-round majority decision over former world title challenger Gabriel Rosado in a super middleweight fight.

Mosey landed 172 of 600 punches; Rosado was 124 of 517.

Mosley dominated the action, and rocked Rosado several times as he took the cards by scores of 98-92, 97-93 and 95-95.

Mosley, 167 lbs of Pomona, CA is 18-4. Rosado, 167.8 lbs of Philadelphia 26-15-1.

“They know who I am now,” said Shane Mosley, Jr. “Gabriel is a great champ. We have to see what’s available. Right now 168 is tied up. Canelo has all the belts. Unless he vacates or fights someone else. I mean who’s going to turn down Canelo. I moved to 168 for the opportunity.”

Marlen Esparza Unifies Flyweight Titles

Marlen Esparza retained her WBC and captured the WBA Flyweight title with a tough 10-round unanimous decision over Nakoka Fujioka.

Esparza landed 120 of 436 punches; Fujioka was 107 of 418.

Esparza, 111.4 lbs of Houston, TX won by scores of 100-90 twice and 97-93 to go to 12-1. The 100-90 scores were much wider then the fight was as Fujioka won several rounds clearly. Fujioka, 111.6 lbs of Tokyo, JAP is 19-3-1.

“I thought it was a really good performance considering how hard she brings it,” said Marlen Esparza. “She’s a very seasoned fighter, she’s a world champion. I’m proud we did everything we practiced, me and my couch James Cooper. We really executed well and we expected it to go that way. You don’t know what a world champion can bring. We had to be patient and see what she had to bring to the table. It wasn’t tough because of the punches but more because she was smothering. I’m really just grateful I could have this experience not only for womens’ boxing but for my fans and really solidify the division. I really want the next two belts. ‘La Bonita’ from Argentina is the one I want, but I have to let my team decide what’s next. I’m happy for the future.”

Hovhannisyan stops Aguero in 2

Azat Havhannisyan stopped Dagoberto Aguero in round two of a scheduled 10-round featherweight fight,

In round two, Aguero came shot out of a cannon, but Hovhannisyan was able to drop Aguero with a hard right. Aguero was hurt and was sent to the canvas again with a huge flurry. With Aguero on rubbery legs, Hovhannisyan rocked Aguero several more times until the fight was stopped at 1:11.

Hovhannisyan, 124.2 lbs of Los Angeles is 21-3 with 17 knockouts. Aguero, 122.8 lbs of San Cristobal, DR is 15-2.

“I was planning on escalating the fight as it went on,” said Azat Hovhannisyan. “That was just the second round pace. I was warming up. When I landed the first body shot I knew I was going to hurt him.”

The scheduled 10-round super middleweight bout between Patrick Teixeira and Paul Valenzuela ended bizarrely as the fight was waved off in round two after Teixeira hit Valenzuela in the back of the head twice and Teixeira was disqualified.

The two punches looked to barely hit the head, yet Valenzuela reacted like the punches landed very hard and he could not continue.

Valenzuela, 168.4 lbs of Santa Rosalia, MEX is 27-11. Teixeira, 162.4 lbs of Sao Paulo, BRA is 31-3.

In a battle of undefeated featherweights, Katsuma Akitsugi won a a eight-round unanimous decision over Gregory Morales.

Akitsugi, 125.4 lbs of Hollywood, CA won by scores of 80-2 twice and 78-74 and is 9-0. Morales, 125.8 lbs of San Antonio, TX is 13-1.

“I want to thank my trainer and my sponsor,” said Katsuma Akitsugi. “ I’ve been through a lot and they helped me be more focused. I’m always training hard, no days off. So when they call me I don’t lose my opportunity.” 

Tristan Kalkreuth scored a spectacular second-round stoppage over former world title challenger Santander Silgado in a six-round heavyweight bout.

In round two, Kalkreuth landed a booming right that sent Silgado down on his back for the 10-count at

Kalkreuth, 219.4 lbs of Duncanville, TX is 9-1 with seven knockouts. Silgado, 242 lbs of Panama City, PAN is 30-12.

“I’m very blessed to be here and be back where I am,” said Tristan Kalkreuth. “It’s a lot of emotions right now. I felt good. I was anxious and a little nervous. I’ve been out of the ring for 8 months. I was curious to see how my arm would feel. I went in and threw a right hand, it felt 100.

George Rincon remained undefeated with a10-round unanimous decision over Alejandro Frias in a welterweight bout.

In round two, Rincon scored a knockdown.

In round eight Rincon was cut on his forehead from a head butt. Frias was deducted a point for that.

Rincon, 138.4 lbs of Dallas, TX won by scores of 96-91 twice and 98-89, and is now 13-0. Frias, 141 lbs of Tepic, MX is 13-6-2.

“That was obviously my toughest fight to date,” said George Rincon. He was a very rugged fighter, I knew that coming into the fight. But this experience is only going to make me better. I was able to identify things that I still have to work on.” 

Hector Valdez Jr. remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Daniel Moncada in a super bantamweight fight.

In round three, Valdez was cut on his hairline.

In round five, Valdez was credited with a knockdown after landing a left hook that put Moncada on the canvas. In round six, Moncada was bleeding over his left eye.

Valdez, 121 lbs of Dallas, TX won by scores of 80-71, 79-72 and 78-73 and is now 15-0. Moncada, 121.8 lbs of Mexico City is 15-6-2.

“I feel really rusty,” said Hector Valdez Jr. “ I think I could’ve taken him out if I trained more. It’s the first fight in over a year. I hurt him but he was really crafty to get in and hit him. There were punches there but as soon as I threw them he would move a little and they would go off course.”

Santos Ortega remained undefeated with a second-round stoppage over Jesus Martinez in a scheduled six-round featherweight bout

In Round two, Martinez was cut over his right eye. Seconds later, Ortega landed a hard combination in the corner the sent Martinez down. Martinez tried to get up but was counted out.

Ortega, 125.8 lbs of Sacramento, CA is 7-0 with three knockouts. Martinez, 124.4 lbs of Hollywood, FL is 30-16-1.

“This is probably the best and strongest I’ve ever felt,” said Santos Ortega. “I was praying everything went good. He was waiting for that overhand and I was too. I knew I had him hurt with a right hand and I just went in. I knew he was done, I felt it.  

Gennadiy Golovkin unified his IBF and won the WBA Middleweight titles with a ninth round stoppage over Ryota Murata in Tokyo, Japan.

Murata started fast and was able to Golovkin over the first four-rounds. Golovkin started it on in round six, as he started his patterned pressure with hard power shots. Golovkin, who celebrated his 40th birthday yesterday looked spry and young as the fight progressed. In that round six, Golovkin landed a hard right that knocked the mouthpiece of Murata out. That seemed to let the air out of Murata as Golovkin began to dominate the fight. Golovkin was all over Murata and hurt him several times in in the pivotal ninth round and landed a hard right that put Murata on the canvas just as the towel was thrown in.

Golovkin now is set up to face Canelo Alvarez in a trilogy fight in September.

Golovkin of Kazakhstan is 42-1-1 with 37 knockouts. Murata of Japan is 16-3.

Nakatani Defends Flyweight Title with stoppage over Yamauchi

Junto Nakatani defended his WBO Flyweight title with an eighth-round stoppage over Ryoya Yamauchi.

Nakatani dominated the action, and in round eight, landed a big barrage of punches that led to a battering on the ropes, and the fight was stopped.

Nakatani is now 23-0 with 18 knockouts. Yamauchi is 8-2.

Yoshino Defeats Ito by Technical Decision

Shuichiro Yoshino won a technical decision over former world champion Masayuki Ito in a lightweight bout.

In round two, Ito began to bleed from his nose.

In round eight, Ito was cut underneath his left eye. In round 10, the doctor looked at the cut. In round 11, the two banged heads which caused more damage around the left eye of Ito and they went to the scorecards.

Yoshiro got the decision by scores of 107 twice and 106-103, and is now 15-0. Ito is 27-4-1.

TIJUANA, Mexico (April 8, 2022): Mexican contender Damian “Samurai” Sosa (20-1, 11 KOs) defended his WBO Latino Super Welterweight Championship with an impressive knockout victory against Jesus “Ingeniero” Vega (22-3-1, 13 KOs) of Guasave, Sinaloa, Mexico in the main event of a Toscano Boxing Promotions show Friday night at Zonkeys Auditorium in Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico and live on FITE.TV Pay-Per-View.

Sosa ended the bout at 1:35 of the third round and once again demonstrated his desire to have a world title opportunity in the near future.

“It was a good fight,” said Damian Sosa. “I think I had control of the entire fight. In the second round, he landed a hard shot on me, but aside from that I felt I had control of the entire bout and that I was doing what my corner was telling me to do.”

“I think we all dream of one day being able to fight for a world title. I prepare myself every day for that. I know that the opportunity will present itself one day because I will look for it. I’ll continue growing and waiting for that opportunity.”

In the co-main event, Pedro Bernal (9-1-2, 3 KOs) of Mexico City, Mexico scored an upset unanimous decision victory over Manuel Jaimes (12-1, 10 KOS) of Stockton, California to capture the WBC Youth Lightweight Title. After eight rounds of action, the judges scored the fight 77-76, 77-76 and 77-75 in favor of the new champion.

Carlos Garcia (10-0, 8 KOs) of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico scored a brutal first-round knockout victory against David Rangel (13-11, 9 KOs) of Cintalapa, Chiapas, Mexico in a scheduled six-round middleweight bout. Garcia ended the bout at 55 seconds of the opening round.

Jose Luis Vazquez (7-0, 2 KOs) of Tlaquepaque, Jalisco, Mexico scored a split decision win against Omar Martinez (4-3, 3 KOs) of Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico after six rounds of battle in the lightweight division. One judge scored the fight 58-56 for Martinez, but two others had it 58-56 and 58-57 in Vazquez’s favor.

Gabriel Muratalla (7-0, 4 KOs) of Fontana, Calif. scored a knockout win over Jose Giovanny Pinedo (4-4, 1 KO) of Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico in a scheduled six-round super bantamweight clash. Muratalla ended matters at 2:58 of the first round.

Arturo Cortez (6-1-1, 5 KOs) of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico defeated Carlos Alberto Ocampo (9-4-4, 6 KOs) of Tepic, Nayarit, Mexico via second-round technical knockout. The official time of the stoppage was 2:54 of the aforementioned round.

Cristian Cruz (17-6, 7 KOs) of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico scored a fourth-round technical knockout against Daniel Acosta (9-5, 6 KOs) of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico in a scheduled six-rounder in the lightweight division.

Carlos Flores (23-1, 13 KOs) of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico captured the WBA Fedecaribe Featherweight Title with a unanimous decision win against Jesus Rendon (15-12, 9 KOs) of Guasave, Sinaloa, Mexico. Flores won with scores of 80-72, 79-73 and 79-73.

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Sosa vs. Vega was a scheduled 10-round battle for the WBO Latino Super Welterweight Championship presented by Toscano Boxing Promotions. The event took place on Friday, April 8 at Zonkeys Auditorium in Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico and was streamed live on Pay-Per-View via FITE.TV.

About Toscano Boxing Promotions
Toscano Boxing Promotions is a promoter based out of Stockton, California and founded by Jorge Toscano in 2018. The company has hosted events both in the United States and in Mexico, including the 2021 battle between Anderson Silva and Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. The Toscano Boxing stable includes rising stars Damian Sosa, Manuel Jaimes, Jose Alvarado, Jose Carrillo and more.

Schenectady, NY (April 8, 2022) – With fight night just one sleep away, all ten fighters took to the scale for the official weigh in ahead of tomorrow nights fights at Rivers Casino in Schenectady, New York. Doors to the Rivers Casino Event Center will open at 7PM and the action will start 8PM. Tickets to the event are available HERE. The action will be stream LIVE and direct via FITE.TV PPV and can be purchased HERE.

10 Round WBC Continental America’s & NABA Gold Championship Main Event
SIMONE “TYSON” FEDERICI (WBC CA Champion): 195 lbs
LYUBOMYR “DEMOLITION MAN” PINCHUK (NABA Gold Champion): 194.2 lbs

**6 Round Super Welterweight Bout
JAHYAE “GOLDEN CHILD” BROWN
GILBERTO PEREIRA dos SANTOS

8 Round Light Heavyweight Bout:
“SUPERFLY” TONY BROWNE: 174 lbs
LEANDRO “APOLLO” DA SILVA: 176 lbs

6 Round Super Lightweight Bout (143 lb max.):
“THE SILENT ASSASIN” RYAN O’ROURKE: 143.2 lbs
FAYCAL REZKALLAH: 143.4 lbs

4 Round Lightweight Bout
MICHELLE COOK: 131.2 lbs
LIZ TUANI:? 128

**Official weight not available
The Rivers Casino fight card is presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing on April 9, 2022 at Rivers Casino & Resort in Schenectady, NY.
Bouts subject to change

SIMONE FEDERICI vs LYUBOMYR PINCHUK OFFICIAL FIGHT TRAILER
Simone Federici vs Lyubomyr Pinchuk WBC CA & NABA Gold Title Bout Trailer

FIGHT NIGHT TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE!
BUY TICKETS HERE!
TICKETS START AT JUST $50
FIGHT NIGHT: SATURDAY, APRIL 9 AT RIVERS CASINO SCHENECTADY
About Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady: Located at the picturesque Mohawk Harbor near the heart of downtown Schenectady, Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady features 1,050 slots, 67 live table games and a 16-table poker room and a live, in-casino luxury sportsbook lounge. The casino offers five distinctive restaurants—among them are Dukes Chophouse, Flipt, Johnny’s To-Go and Mian. Rivers features a multipurpose Event Center space, a lively entertainment lounge—Van Slyck’s, live music performances, free parking and daily promotions and giveaways. The Landing Hotel is a 165-room, six-story boutique hotel with riverfront views located adjacent to the Event Center. Rivers, which opened in 2017, employs approximately 1,200 team members and has been voted a great place to work in Schenectady. Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady is owned and operated by Rush Street Gaming and its affiliates. For more information, visit RiversCasino.com/Schenectady.

RockinFights.

ROCKIN’ FIGHTS ARCHIVES:
Rockin’ Fights 41: Oleh Dovhun vs Geram Eloyan – NABA Title (Highlights)
OLEH DOVHUN defended his NABA title for the first time against Belgium Bruiser GERAM ELOYAN in the main event at Rockin’ Fights 41!
Rockin’ Fights 35: Tyrone “Pretty Boy” James vs Ray Oliveira Jr.
TYRONE “PRETTY BOY” JAMES left his mark on “Rockin’ Fights” 35 with a vicious TKO victory over RAY OLIVEIRA JR. to remain undefeated!

New York, NY (April 8, 2022)- Undefeated welterweight contender Giovani Santillan of Split-T Management will be back in action on Saturday night as he takes on Jeovannis Barraza in the co-feature bout of an ESPN card on Saturday night in Costa Mesa, California.

The 30 year-old Santillan of San Diego, has a record of 28-0 with 15 knockouts. A 10 year-veteran of the squared circle, Santillan is on the verge of a big fight. Of his 28 wins, some of his noted victories have been over Peter Haro (2-0), Michael Balasi (10-2), Daniyar Harryk (10-0), Osenohan Vazquez (7-1-1), Eduardo Rivera (9-1-2), Ernesto Ortiz Centeno (10-2), Omar Tieneda Bahena (18-3), Sammy Valentin (12-0), Dodzi Kahmeh (19-1), Alejandro Barboza (11-1), former world champion Antonio DeMarco, Cecil McCalla (23-4) and his last bout when he took a 10-round unanimous decision over Angel Ruiz (17-1) on October 15, 2021 in his hometown of San Diego.

Barraza of Barranquilla, Colombia is 23-2 with 15 knockouts. The 26 year-old is an eight-year professional, and a former Colombian Welterweight champion who has defeated the likes of Francisco Marlmon (1-0), Luis Guillermo Berrio (5-1-1), Domicio Roldon (11-2), Carlos Saenz (19-2). Barraza is coming off a loss to Alexis Rocha on November 13, 2021 in Anaheim, California.

Giovani Santillan Press Conference Quotes:

“I like fighting in Southern California. It was great to have been able to fight in San Diego, my hometown. I think that San Diego has a lot of boxing fans, and to have a show out there is great for everybody. To be in the co-main event of that show was amazing. Now we’re in Costa Mesa, which is only an hour away from San Diego. I expect a lot of fans, friends and family to be there.”

“I’m ready for a title shot. I think I’m there. We definitely want the big fights. Hopefully, this year we get closer to something like that. Hopefully, we can be the main event in San Diego. This Saturday night will be important for me because it will set the tone for what I’m going to do for the rest of the year.”

“With every fight, there is always pressure. You always have to perform as a fighter, especially fighting on ESPN. You always want to do your best. I think I’m undefeated for a reason. We’re always thinking about trying to get the bigger fights. I’m always working hard because I want to give the best version of myself in each fight.”

At Friday’s weigh-in, Santillan was 147.4 lbs. Barraza was 148.6.

Santillan is co-promoted by Top Rank and Thompson Boxing.