Legends Mike Tyson and Roy Jones Jr. fought to a draw in their exhibition bout at Staples Center in Los Angeles.

Tyson looked to land power shots while Jones fought mostly on the outside. There was a lot of clinching, and neither man was ever in serious danger throughout the fight which consisted of eight-two minute rounds.

Tyson landed 67 of 193 punches. Jones was 37 of 236.

Jake Paul destroys Nate Robinson in 2

Youtube star Jake Paul destroyed former NBA Slam Dunk champion Nate Robinson in round two of their scheduled six-round cruiderweight fight.

Paul drilled Robinson with a booming right that sent him hard to the canvas. Seconds later, Paul landed a perfect combination that sent Robinson out cold and the fight was stopped.

Paul, 189 lbs is 2-0 with two knockouts. Robinson is 0-1.

Jack decisions McKernan

Former world champion Badou Jack pounded away and won an eight-round unanimous decision over Blake McKernan in a cruiserweight bout.

Jack landed 203 of 520 punches; McKernan was 92 of 471.

Jack, 188 3/4 lbs won by scores of 80-72 on all cards, and is now 23-3-2. McKernan, 186 3/4 lbs is 13-1.

Ortiz Stops Segawa in 7

Jamaine Ortiz remained undefeated by stopping Sulaiman Segawa in round seven of their scheduled eight-round lightweight bout.

Ortiz dropped Segawa with a body shot. Segawa tried to fight on but the e fight was stopped at 2:50.

Ortiz, 133 1/2 lbs is now 14-0 with eight knockouts. Segawa, 131 3/4 lbs is 13-3-1.

Edward Vazquez remained undefeated with an eight-round split decision over Irvin Gonzalez in a featherweight bout.

Vazquez, 125 1/4 lbs won two cards 77-75. Gonzalez won a scorecard 77-75.

Vazquez is 9-0. Gonzalez is 14-3.

In a highly anticipated heavyweight battle of undefeated fighters, Joe Joyce scored a 10th round stoppage over Daniel Dubois at The Church House, Westminster in London, England.

It was a highly competitive and high quality scrap with DuBois getting the better early as he landed some hard right hands that Joyce showed a terrific chin by walking right through him. Joyce was very effective with his jab.

In round five, the effectiveness of the jabs showed as the left eye of Dubois began to swell. Dubois was still able to get in some good shots, but towards the end of the ninth round, you could feel the tide beginning to turn towards Joyce.

The eye of Dubois was getting worse and worse, and finally in round ten, Joyce landed another hard jab, that made Dubois first paw at his left eye and then take two steps back to take a knee and basically submitted as he watched the referee count to 10 and the fight was over at 36 seconds.

Joyce, 258 lbs of Puttney, London is 12-0 with 11 knockouts. Dubois, 244.6 lbs of Greenwich, London is 15-1.

Sheeraz stops Pitto in 10th

Hamzah Sheeraz won stopped Guido Nicolas Pitto in the 10th and final round of their super welterweight bout.

Sheeraz rocked Pitto with a hard right. That set up a nine punch flurry and then three hard punches later, the fight was stopped at 1:11.

Sheeraz, 153.9 lbs of East London is 12-0 with eight knockouts. Pitto, 152.9 lbs of Barcelona, SPA is 26-8-2.

Number-one ranked junior welterweight Jack Catterall tuned up for a world title opportunity by winning a 10-round decision over Abderrazak Houya.

In round six, Catterall dropped Houya with a perfectly timed counter-left. In round nine, Catterall sent Houya down again with a hard left.

Catterall, 143.3 lbs won by a 99-90 score and is now 26-0. Houya, 141.9 lbs is 14-3.

David Adeleye stopped Danny Whitaker in round two of their scheduled six-round heavyweight bout.

In round two, Adeleye landed a right that dropped Whitaker. Seconds later, Whitaker was sent to the canvas for a 2nd time, and the fight was stopped at 2:09.

Adeleye, 219.4 lbs of London is 4-0 with all wins coming early. Whitaker, 260.1 lbs is 4-2.

Jack Massey won an eight-round decision over Mohammad Ali Bayat in a cruiserweight bout.

In round eight, Massey was cut over the right eye.

Massey, 201.6 lbs of Manchester, UK won by a 79-74 score and is now 17-1. Bayat, 200.7 lbs of Dubai i 16-2-1.

Daniel Jacobs won a split-decision over Gabriel Rosado in a lackluster super middleweight fight at the Seminole Hard Rock Resort in Hollywood, Florida.

Nether guy stood out in the contest where in many of the rounds there punches in the mid-20’s and very few moments of action.

Both guys landed 78 punches with Rosado throwing 549 to 339 of Jacobs.

In the end, Jacobs squeaked it out by winning two cards of 115-113 and Rosado took a card 115-113.

Jacobs, 167.7 lbs of Brooklyn, NY is 37-3. Rosado, 168 lbs of Philadelphia is 25-13.

Yeleussinov stops Indongo in 2

Daniyar Yeleussinov stopped former unified champion Julius Indongo in round two of a scheduled 10-round welterweight fight

In round one, Yeleussinov landed a perfect left counter that dropped Yeleussinov. In round two, Yeleussinov landed a perfect left that sent Indongo to the canvas for a 2nd time and the fight was stopped at 1:24.

Yeleussinov, 146.6 lbs of Breezino, KAZ is 10-0 with six knockouts. Indongo, 146.2 lbs of Windhoek, NAM is 23-3.

Nikita Ababiy remained undefeated by winning a six-round unanimous decision over Brandon Maddox in a middleweight contest.

Ababiy landed 83 of 311 punches; Maddox was 62 of 321.

Ababiy, 162.2 lbs of Brooklyn, NY won by scores of 59-55 on all cards and is now 10-0. Maddox, 162 lbs of Detroit, MI is 7-4-1.

Mahammadrasul Majidov stopped Sahret Delgado in round three of their scheduled eight-round bout featuring undefeated heavyweights.

Majidov dominated the action and landed a huge right right that hurt Delgado badly and the fight was stopped at 47 seconds.

Majidov, 232.6 lbs of Baku, AZE is now 3-0 with three knockouts. Delgado, 291 lbs of Humacao, PR is 8-1.

Emmanuel Tagoe won a 10-round majority decision over Mason Menard in a lightweight bout.

In round four, Menard was cut over his right eye.

Tagoe landed 135 of 467 punches; Menard was 126 of 554.

Tagoe, 134 lbs of Accra, GHA won by scores of 98-92, 96-94 and 95-95 and is now 32-1. Menard, 134.8 lbs of Rayne, LA is 36-5.

Former Olympic Gold medal winner Tony Yoka won a 10-round unanimous decision over Christian Hammer at H-Arena in Nantes, France.

In round two, Hammer was cut over the right eye. Yoka boxed well in this uneventful fight, but he was consistent from range.

Yoka is 9-0. Hammer is 25-7.

Viktor Faust went the distance for the 1st time in his career, yet still won an easy six-round unanimous decision over Kamil Sokolowski in a heavyweight bout.

In round three, Faust dropped Sokolowski with a hard combination that was culminated by a left hook to the side of the head.

In round four, Sokolowski was cut in the bridge of his nose.

Faust of the Ukraine is now 5-0. Sokolowski is 10-20-2.

Gokcek Decisions Bechelaghem after Decision is reversed

Volkan Gokcek remained undefeated with a decision win over Aboubeker Bechelaghem in a weltwewight.

Bechelaghem was originally announced the winner, but after he left the ring, Gokcek had his hand raised as the scores were read wrong. Gokcek won by sores of 59-55 and 58-56; Bechelaghem won by a 58-56 score. Gokcek, the fighter from Turkey is now 5-0. Bechelaghem is 12-12-2.

Mossely decisions Gongora

Estelle Mossely, who who like her husband Tony Yoka, was a former Olympic Gold Medal winner, won an eight-round unanimous decisions over Emma Gongora in a lightweight bout.

In round two, Gongora was cut over her left eye. Replays showed it came from an elbow by Mossely

Mossely is now 8-0. Gongora, who took the bout on three days notice is now 0-2.

The Big Drama Show is back!  Gennadiy “GGG” Golovkin, boxing’s most dominant middleweight of his era, returns to the ring looking to make even more history when he attempts to make a division-record 21st successful defense of his World Middleweight titles.  Golovkin (40-1-1, 35 KOs), from Karaganda, Kazakhstan, has worn a world championship belt every year since 2010.  He will be making a mandatory title defense against undefeated top-rated contender Kamil Szeremeta (21-0, 5 KOs), from Biaylstok, Poland, Friday, Dec. 18, behind closed doors at Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, FL.  The Golovkin-Szeremeta IBF/IBO Middleweight World Championship fight, and its action-packed undercard bouts, will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN in over 200 countries and territories.

 “This is not just any fight.  It is a fight with great meaning.  I always have the greatest respect for all of my opponents.  I have really missed boxing and I wanted to fight this year.  The goal — fighting for a record twenty-first successful world title defense.” Golovkin said.    

“I want this title for Poland and my family.  GGG is a great champion, one of the best in history, but it is time for replacement.  Thank you for the great chance, I must take my opportunity to be the first world middleweight champion from Poland,” Szeremeta said.

“GGG is looking to make history this December on DAZN in front of a worldwide audience,” said DAZN EVP Joseph Markowski.  “We look forward to launching our Global platform with an action-packed opening month featuring boxing’s biggest stars.”

“This is a historic moment for one of the best fighters of our generation. GGG has been providing explosive entertainment for many years now and we can expect a war on December 18 against Szeremeta.  The Pole is the unbeaten mandatory challenger and I know the team really fancy their chances of an upset during these crazy times. As we have seen through Golovkin’s career — don’t blink and certainly don’t miss it,” said Eddie Hearn, managing director, Matchroom Sport.

Golovkin, who shares the record for consecutive World Middleweight title defenses, returns to the ring in his second reign as World Middleweight Champion. In a battle of former Olympic medalists, Golovkin regained the IBF middleweight title on Oct. 5, 2019, with a unanimous decision victory over Sergiy Derevyanchenko, a hellacious toe-to-toe slugfest that had the frenzied crowd at Madison Square Garden on its feet for the entire 12 rounds.  Many considered it the Fight of the Year.  Golovkin’s Big Drama Show has packed iconic arenas around the world, selling out Madison Square Garden, The O2 in London, the Fabulous Forum and StubHub Center in Los Angeles, and T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.  This will be his first time fighting in the Sunshine State.  His decade-long rampage on the middleweight division has also attracted millions of viewers who have watched him on premium cable, pay-per-view, and DAZN.       

Now Golovkin faces his second consecutive top-rated contender in Szeremeta.  The former EBU European middleweight champion, eight years younger than the defending world champion, enters this fight like a hurricane gathering strength, having won three of his last five fights by knockout, including a second-round stoppage of Oscar Cortes on the undercard of Golovkin-Derevyanchenko.  His reign as EBU European middleweight champion included victories over Alessandro Goddi, Ruben Diaz and Andrew Francillette, who had a combined record of 79-4-4 when he fought them — a winning percentage of 91%. 

The Golovkin-Szeremeta World Middleweight Championship event is brought to you by GGG Promotions, in association with Matchroom Boxing and Warriors Boxing.

Former world champion Javier Fortuna stopped Antonio Lozada Jr. in round six of a scheduled 10-round lightweight bout at Staples Center in Los Angeles.

In round one, Fortuna dropped Lozada with a straight left hand. Fortuna was cut over his right eye due to an accidental headbutt.

In round six, Fortuna started to batter a hurt Lozada and the fight was stopped at 2:34.

Fortuna, 135 lbs of La Romana, DR is 36-2-1 with 25 knockouts. Lozada, 134.2 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 40-5-1.

Austin Dulay won a 10-round unanimous decision over Jose Luis Gallegos in a lightweight bout.

Dulay was consistent throughout the bout and won by scores of 100-90 twice and 99-91.

Dulay landed 170 of 580 punches; Gallegos 99-of 590.

Dulay, 137.8 lbs of Nashville, TN is 14-2. Gallegos, 136.6 lbs of Chicago, IL is 19-10.

18 Year-old Fernando Molina remained undefeated by pounding out a six-round unanimous decision over Jose Zaragoza in a lightweight bout.

In round two, Molina landed a hard right uppercut that sent Zaragoza to the canvas.

Molina landed 107 of 370 punches; Zaragoza was 61 of 377.

Molina, 137.8 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX won by scores of 60-53 on all cards and is now 3-0. Zaragoza, 138.2 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is 5-3-1.

Conor Benn remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Sebastian Formella in a welterweight bout at the SSE Arena in London, England.

It was a solid performance out of Benn, who bloodied the left nostril of Formella as early was round two.

Benn, 147 lbs of Illford, Essex won by scores of 100-91, 99-91 and 99-92 and is now 17-0. Formella, 147 lbs of Hamburg, GER is 22-2.

“I just stuck to my boxing,” Benn told Matchroom. “I was hitting him with some hard shots. The guy just went 12 rounds with Shawn Porter and I think I beat him more convincingly. I didn’t lose a round. It was an okay night’s work. I’ve had harder spars than that. I’m not being funny. I’ve been sparring with Middleweights and Super-Middleweights in 18oz gloves. They wear 14oz gloves and I wear 18oz gloves. When it comes to punching power, if I’m not going to bang them out, I’ll wear them down.

“He’s a former World Champion and I expected nothing less. I stayed cool and composed the whole ten rounds. I could have done 15. I’m barely breaking a sweat now. He tried it on the inside and I beat him to the punches on the inside. He tried it at range and I beat him to the punches at range. I was quicker, faster and stronger. People think their experience is going to get to me, what experience? Jussi Koivula got banged out in two rounds and if they want to go ten or twelve I’ll outbox them for ten or twelve. 

“People will always question me because of my vulnerability. I’m hungry like I come from the ends. I’m hungry like I came from nothing. I fight like a starving man. You don’t need to come form poverty, come from having nothing, to be a great fighter. I have a great life. I live such a blessed life, but I still fight like a starving man because of that championship mindset, that hunger and will to win. 

“I’ve just beaten No.23 in the world, a former IBO World Champion. I’m pushing on. The only domestic fight I’m interested in, the only domestic fight that the public keep talking about, not Instagram, is the Josh Kelly fight. That’s the only fight I’m interested in. If not, get me Samuel Vargas. Get me some of these top Yanks, I’ll have a bit of them. The only domestic fight I’m interested in is Josh Kelly. Let’s have it.”

Fabio Wardley remained undefeated by stopping Richard Lartey in round two of their scheduled 10-round heavyweight bout.

Wardley pawed with a left and then landing a booming right that sent Lartey down and the fight was stopped at 1:22.

Lartey needed some oxygyn, but seemed alright.

Wardley, 230 lbs of Ipswich, ENG is 10-0 with nine knockouts. Lartey, 258.1 lbs of Accra, GHA is 14-4.

“The first round took some adjusting,” said Wardley afterwards. “I like to use that first round to gather information, figure out my opponent, see where gaps are, see what’s going on. Just analyse the whole situation. I did that, took a few shots doing it but that’s all part of the game. A bit of that chin check thing was ticked off for me. I can take a bang and it’s not going to give me too much bother. We got through that first round and I figured out what I was going to do from then onwards. 

“I stung him with a few jabs and I always saw that those gloves came straight up in front of him. I fought sting him with one and come around the side. That was the plan and it came off perfectly. Nobody is ever going to grumble at an early night’s work. I get to go back and chill out now. I need to start getting those rounds in and get tougher tests. I’ve ticked that box of ‘do I have one punch power?’. 

“The comparisons are always going to come. Does me knocking out Lartey quicker than Daniel Dubois mean I’m better than him? Does it mean I’d do the same to Daniel? Boxing isn’t that cut and dry. There’s a lot more to it. I take it for what it is. I beat Richard Lartey in two round and I’m happy with that performance. I did well and that’s all you take from it. We keep moving and we keep working.”

Alen Babic kept his perfect knockout streak alive by taking out Tom Little in round three of their scheduled eight-round heavyweight bout.

Babic had a tremendous unrelenting workrate. In round three, Babic put Little down with a right hand, but Little went down more from exhaustion. Later in the round, Babic landed a chopping right that put Little down flat on his back and the fight was stopped at 2:38.

Babic, 213.8 lbs of Zagreb, CRO is 6-0 with six knockouts. Little, 235 lbs of Hatfield, ENG is 10-9.

“My Savage Army, I never lie to you,” Babic told Matchroom. “If I tell them I’m going to do it, I’m going to do it. I said I would do it in the first round and it should have been in the first round, he was well prepared. He could take a punch. I think I broke both of my knuckles on his head. I can feel it. He can take a punch. “Nobody can go three rounds with me. I had fuel in my tank for twenty like that. Filip Hrgovic bet against me, I’m so glad he lost money on me. He is my fellow Croat, we live like 2km away from each other. He bet against me. That just shows he doesn’t know shit about boxing. He doesn’t know the history of boxing. He’s just a technical guy, a very good technical guy. As soon as the fans come back, I want him. 

“I’m going to take Tom back to my Savage Army because he’s a good guy. He’s a good fighter but he’s not even close to my level. He’s two stone heavier than me. and I want you to write that down. I box every day. I don’t do anything out of the ring. My training is old school, boxing, sparring and pads. Just that. I didn’t do a single push up or pull up. 

“I’m not faking anything. Hrgovic is a fake. I’m real and I want to fight. I like fist fights. I think it was a beautiful fight. I want to give people entertainment. That’s who I am and I’m always going to be like that. Unless somebody tests me I’m going to keep knocking them out. Give me a strong puncher, a knockout artist. You’re going to see the sweet science. I can do it. I can punch and I have stamina. I have a strong head, you can’t beat that with muscles.”

Jez Smith won a decision over previously undefeated Ben Ridings in a six-round super middleweight contest.

Smith, 166 lbs of Harrow Weald, ENG won by a 60-54 score and is now 12-2-1. Ridings, 165 lbs of Bury, ENG is 3-1.

“I’m over the moon,” Smith said afterwards. “I can’t put it into words. I had a game plan and I knew what I was going to do. I knew I had a good game plan so I stuck to my boxing. I think it was a dominant performance. The referee didn’t give him a round. If I can box like that and do that when I’m not even 30% fit,  imagine what I can do when I’m fully fit. I took this fight on five days’ notice, I’m not taking anything away from Ben, I knew I was levels above him. I’ve hardly been in the gym. I’m going to dedicate myself to this craft. I’m going to be back with another win on my record. 

“I’m a fighting man. As soon as I got the call to fight live on Sky Sports on a massive bill like this I jumped at the chance. I’ll fight anyone. I’m going to get back down to Light-Middleweight. Me and Ted Cheeseman have unfinished business from the amateurs. Me and him had a fight called off after one round as there was fighting in the arena. That would be an electric fight with fireworks. If he wants it he can have it. I’ve put myself on the map so hopefully I can start being used on these big shows more. 

“I knew tonight was my night. I knew I had to go in there and put on a boxing performance. I believe that’s what I did. He hardly touched me. I claimed every round. I think this is the biggest arena that I’ve fought in so far in my career. I’m ecstatic and over the moon. I just want to say a massive thank yo to Eddie Hearn and Matchroom for giving me this opportunity. I’ll be ready for the call when it comes again.”

Liam Davies stopped Sean Cairns after round six of their scheduled 10-round bantamweight bout.

Davies battered Cairns over the six-round battle.

In round five, Cairns began to bleed from the nose, and his right started to swell. After the 6th, the corner stopped the bout.

Davies, 118 lbs of Telford, ENG is 8-0 with three stoppages. Cairns, 118 lbs of Liverpool, ENG is 7-3.

“And the new English Bantamweight Champion sounds good,” Davies told Matchroom afterwards. “It is music to my ears. I’m just happy. I knew I could do it. It was just about getting in there and getting the job done, making sure that everything went to plan. I felt like it did tonight.

“I still had a lot left in the tank. I wasn’t slowing down for nothing. I was building up the pressure and putting my punches together. You’ve got to give it to him, he’s as tough as anything. He kept coming and coming! That’s why I didn’t go mad with it. I respected how tough he was and how game he was. Full respect to Sean and I wish him all the best in the future. 

“I’d give myself an eight out of ten. I know there’s still more to come from me. I just hope I get the chance to come again and show another level because this is just the start for me. I’m looking to build and get more belts around my waist. 

“The show in Telford didn’t go ahead but I landed on my feet fighting live on Sky Sports here wining my first title. This is a memory that I will never forget and hopefully something that we can build on. I don’t fold under pressure. If anything, I rise to it. I rise to the occasion and next time I’ll rise again with a bigger and better performance for another belt hopefully. That’s the plan. 

“I’m here to impress and I felt like I did tonight. I did what I intended to do. I won in style. Most people would have gone over. I hit him hard and you’ve got to respect him for taking those shots. I don’t think most Bantamweights could have taken that power. Roll on whoever is next because I’m coming now.”

Canelo Promotions and Matchroom Boxing are delighted to announce that Canelo Alvarez’s clash with Callum Smith for the WBA and Ring Magazine World Super-Middleweight titles will take place with a limited live crowd at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas on Saturday December 19, live on DAZN in 200+ countries and territories worldwide and on TV Azteca in Mexico. 

An announcement on ticket prices and on-sale dates will be made early next week
Canelo (53-1-2 36 KOs) fights at the venue for the second time in his storied career having beaten Austin Trout there in April 2013, and it’s the fourth time the Mexican pound-for-pound king has boxed in Texas having beaten Trout, James Kirkland and Smith’s older brother Liam in the Lone Star state.

Smith (27-0 19 KOs) will be gunning for revenge for ‘Beefy’s’ defeat in September 2016, and the Liverpool star will look to rubber-stamp his position as the number one 168lber in the world and crash into the pound-for-pound rankings himself with victory on the biggest night of his eight-year pro career.

Home of the UTSA Roadrunners, the Alamodome has a rich history of staging blockbuster fights, with their first fight the infamous draw between Mexican legend Julio Cesar Chavez and the late great ‘Sweet Pea’ Pernell Whitaker in April of the stadiums opening year in 1993, and the likes of Manny Pacquiao, Evander Holyfield, Julio Cesar Chavez Jr and Canelo himself headlining since then – and Canelo is excited to return to San Antonio and fight in front of his adoring faithful.

“I am thrilled to be back at the Alamodome and very thankful to be fighting in front of my fans on December 19,” said Canelo. “I have great memories of my previous bouts in Texas, and I expect this to be a special fight to close out the year.”

“It’s fantastic news to be able to hold this great fight in front of fans and in a great stadium like the Alamodome,” said Eddie Hearn, managing director of Matchroom Sport. “It’s a fight that deserves to be witnessed in the flesh and those fans that snap up the hottest ticket in town next week will be in for a brilliant night of action, topped by the pound-for-pound king taking on the number one Super-Middleweight in the world – a simply unmissable occasion for those in attendance and watching live on DAZN.”

“The Alamodome is extremely honored to be working with Canelo Promotions and Matchroom Boxing in hosting this mega boxing event on December 19,” said Steve Zito, general manager of the Alamodome. “We are excited to welcome back Canelo Alvarez to the Alamodome and San Antonio.  Since fan safety is our number one priority, the Alamodome has created and implemented a comprehensive COVID-19 reopening plan with details available here. The venue is prepared to offer patrons a memorable, safe and exciting fight night experience.”

O’Shaquie Foster stopped Miguel Roman in round nine of their scheduled 10-round super featherweight bout at the parking lot of the Wild Card Boxing Club in Hollywood, California,

In round one, Foster dropped Roman with a perfect right to the chin.

In round nine, Foster dropped Roman with a hard left hook. Foster jumped on Roman and landed a barrage of punches and referee Jack Reiss stopped the bout at 58 seconds.

Foster, 130 lbs of Houston, TX is 18-2 with 11 knockouts. Roman, 129 1/2 lbs of Ciudad Juarez, MEX is 62-14.

“I feel great and like I showed everybody I can box” Foster told ringside reporter Curran Bhatia. “I showed the world that I’m talented and hope everyone will want to see me fight again.”

“It feels unbelievable to be on this stage and show my talent to the world,” Foster continued. “I would love to face the winner of Berchelt vs. Valdez next, or even Carl Frampton. Any of the top guys, I’m ready to get in the ring with.”

Zepeda stops Ramirez in 5!

William Zepeda remained undefeated by stopping Roberto Ramirez in round five of their scheduled 10-round lightweight bout.

Zepeda applied tremendous pressure and had Ramirez on the defensive for most of the fight. In round five, Zepeda landed a huge barrage of punches that forced the corner to stop the fight at 2:43.

Zepeda, 135 lbs of San Mateo, MEX is 22-0 with 20 knockouts. Ramirez, 134 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 23-3-1.

Eduardo Hernandez stopped Eduardo Garza in round three of a scheduled eight-round super featherweight bout.

In round one, Garza was cut under the left eye. In round three, Hernandez started to wear Garza down and landed a body shot that sent Garza down for the 10-count the fight was stopped at 2:37.

Hernandez, 129 lbs of Mexico City is 30-1 with 27 knockouts. Garza, 130 lbs of Mission, TX is 15-3-1.

Canelo Promotions and Matchroom Boxing are delighted to announce that Canelo Alvarez will take on Callum Smith for the WBA and Ring Magazine World Super-Middleweight titles on Saturday December 19, live on DAZN in 200+ countries and territories worldwide (excluding Mexico).
 
Alvarez (53-1-2 36 KOs) is back in action for the first time since knocking out Sergey Kovalev in November 2019 in Las Vegas, ripping the WBO World Light-Heavyweight title from the Russian to become a four-weight World ruler.
 
The Mexican superstar beat Smith’s old foe and fellow Liverpool fighter Rocky Fielding in December 2018 to win the WBA regular belt at 168lbs – his third weight to rule at – and will be gunning to follow his domination at Middleweight up to Super-Middle.
 
Smith (27-0 19 KOs) has landed the huge fight he has craved, and the powerful Brit will be out to cement his position as top dog at 168lbs. ‘Mundo’ landed the WBA and Ring belts he puts on the line with a clinical stoppage win over fellow countryman George Groves in the seventh round of final of the inaugural World Boxing Super Series in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia in September 2018. 
 
The 30 year old has defended the titles twice since, stopping Hassan N’Dam in New York in June 2019 and then outpointing John Ryder in his Liverpool hometown five months later. Smith will also be out for family revenge when he steps through the ropes, with Canelo having beaten Smith’s brother Liam in Texas in September 2016.
 
“I’m very happy to return to the ring and continue to make history,” said Canelo. “I am motivated to continue to be the best, and I look forward to fighting Callum Smith, who is one of the best at 168lbs.”
 
“We are very happy to return to the ring and close out the year with one more victory to continue demonstrating that Canelo is the best boxer on this planet,” said Eddy Reynoso, Sport and Talent director at Canelo Promotions and Canelo’s trainer.
 
“I’ve been wanting a big fight since becoming World champion, so I’m so pleased that during these challenging times we can deliver to the fans a fight between the very best in the division,” said Smith. “I truly believe I beat him and will prove that 168lbs is my division.”
 
“I’m delighted to be part of this huge fight to close out 2020 and deliver this opportunity for Callum Smith,” said Eddie Hearn, managing director of Matchroom Sport. “Canelo is a fearless competitor who constantly challenges himself against great champions and this will be a thrilling battle for 168lb supremacy. It’s a pleasure to be working with Canelo and Eddy Reynoso and we look forward to a spectacular event on December 19.”
 
“We’re thrilled to work with our great partners Canelo Alvarez, Eddy Reynoso and Matchroom on this new venture,” said Ed Breeze, DAZN EVP, Rights. “Canelo vs. Smith is a perfect fight to support DAZN’s global launch in December as we look forward to introducing the platform to sports fans around the world.”
 
An announcement on the venue for the fight will be made soon.

Saturday’s Top Rank on ESPN saw pound-for-pound king Terence Crawford (37-0, 28 KOs) retain his WBO welterweight world title with a fourth-round TKO over former welterweight world champion Kell Brook, in a main event from the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.  The fight delivered big on viewership, ranking as the top boxing telecast across all TV networks since January 2019. 

Top Things to Know

• Crawford vs Brook averaged 1,758,000 viewers, making it the most viewed boxing telecast across on all TV networks since January 2019
• The main event was also the most viewed boxing telecast on cable since December 2018 (Lomachenko vs. Pedraza on ESPN: 1,889,000)
• The fight rating peaked during the 11:45 p.m.-12:00 a.m. ET quarter hour with 2.1 million viewers
• Through seven Saturday night telecasts on ESPN so far this year, Top Rank on ESPN has averaged 1,033,000 viewers, up 44% from 11 Saturday night telecasts in 2019
• Adults 18-49 are up 54% year-over-year
• Crawford vs. Brook ranked No. 1 as the most socially engaged boxing telecast across TV over the last two years, with over 306,000 total social interactions across Facebook, Instagram and Twitter
• Crawford vs. Brook had a strong performance on social media, becoming the most socially engaged telecast across TV over the last two years, with over 306,000 social interactions across Facebook, Instagram and Twitter
• Lomachenko vs. Lopez and Crawford vs. Brook have been the most socially engaged boxing telecasts across TV in consecutive months over the last two years.

Top Rank on ESPN has featured an action-packed fall schedule highlighted by some of the leaders of boxing’s electric youth movement, including stunning performances by the new undisputed lightweight king Teofimo Lopez, WBO female junior lightweight world champion Mikaela Mayer and WBA/IBF unified bantamweight world champion Naoya Inoue. Rising star Shakur Stevenson, the undefeated former featherweight world champion from Newark, N.J., is set to close out the year in a 10-round junior lightweight main event against Toka Kahn Clary, Saturday, Dec. 12, from MGM Grand Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.

Terence Crawford may have solidified himself as the best fighter in the world as he stopped Kell Brook in round four to retain his WBO Welterweight title at the MGM Grand Conference Center in Las Vegas.

Brook started off very well as he was very adept with his jab and started landing solid rights. Brook at the very least took two if not all three of the opening rounds.

That was short lived, as in round four, Crawford hurt Brook badly with a short right hook that staggered him to the ropes that was ruled a knockdown by referee Tony Weeks. Crawford, who may be the best finisher in the sport, saw blood and pounced on Brook and landed a vicious combination that forced the stoppage at 1:14.

Crawford, 146.4 lbs of Omaha, Nebraska, is 37-0 with 28 knockouts. Brook, 147 lbs of Sheffield, England is 39-3.

“I already said who I want {next}. I want Pacquiao. I want to revisit that fight,” Crawford said. “That was a fight that should’ve happened right now. But being that the pandemic happened, and they weren’t going to allow fans in the Middle East, they had to put a hold to that. Everything was 95 percent done. We had the venue. The money was almost there. It wasn’t quite there. That was the only thing we were waiting on.

“Kell is a tremendous talent. He came and he tried to take my title. He was in shape. He made the weight. There were no excuses to be put on the table. He came off of three wins.”

Added Brook, “Never in my career, nobody has ever done that to me in sparring or anything.

“It was one of them… I got caught with a shot I didn’t see. I’m gutted because nobody could’ve gotten me in better condition. I was bang on the limit. Maybe I could’ve been a bit more relaxed and loose and let the shots go.”

Top Rank chairman Bob Arum said, “Terence Crawford showed, once again, why he is the best welterweight in the world. It was a dominating performance over a very good fighter in Kell Brook. Terence ranks up there with all the great welterweights I’ve promoted.”

Moloney and Franco Fight to No-Decision after Franco injures eye

In a rematch for the WBA Super Flyweight title, Andrew Moloney and reigning champion battled to a no-contest as an injury to the eye of Franco forced the fight to be stopped before the 3rd round.

In round one, Franco had swelling over his right eye from an accidental headbutt. The doctor looked at the rapidly swelling eye before round’s two and three, and Franco was deemed unfit to continue. Replays showed that the swelling was caused by a jab in the 1st round by Moloney..

The commission looked at the replay for over 25 minutes and settled on a no-contest.

Moloney said, “They took this away from me. The injury was caused by a punch. I can’t believe this.
 
“I was in control of the fight and on my way to a clear victory. I deserved this win. I landed 50 punches on that eye. It was not even close.”
 
Added Arum, “This is an absolute disgrace. There was no headbutt.  Andrew Moloney should be the new champion.”

Joshua Greer Jr. and Edwin Rodriguez battled to a majority draw in a eight-round bantamweight fight.

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

Rodriguez took a card 77-75 and two cards read even at 76-76.

Rodriguez landed 124 of 470 punches; Greer was 131 of 526.

Greer, 118.9 lbs of Chicago, IL is 22-2-2. Rodriguez, 118.9 lbs of Ponce, PR is 11-5-2.

Tyler Howard remained undefeated by winning an eight-round unanimous decision over KeAndrae Leatherwood.

In round two, Howard was cut over the left eye.

In round six, Leatherwood was deducted a point for holding. In round eight, Howard dropped Leatherwood with a body shot.

Howard landed 81 of 329 punches; Leatherwood was 74 of 244.

Howard, 161.2 lbs of Crossville, TN won by scores of 77-74, 76-74 and 77-73 and is now 19-0. Leatherwood, 161.9 lbs of Tuscaloosa, AL is 22-8-1.

Duke Ragan stayed undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Sebastian Gutierrez in a featherweight fight.

In round two, Ragan sent Gutierrez to the canvas with a nicely-timed right hand.

Ragan, 126 lbs of Cincinnati, OH won by scores of 40-35 on all cards and is now 3-0. Gutierrez, 126.3 lbs of Oxnard, CA is 1-1.

Vegas Larfield stopped Jose Alberto Flores in a scheduled four round bantamweight bout featuring undefeated fighters.

It was a back and forth brawl for the opening two rounds. In round three, Larfield dropped Flores with a hard left hook. It was another right that sent Flores down for a 2nd time. Larfield finished off Flores with a big eight-punch combination and the fight was stopped at 1:07.

Larfield, 119 lbs of Brisbane, AUS is now 2-0 with two knockouts. Flores, 117.3 lbs of Monterrey, MEX is 2-1-1.

Raymond Muratalla stopped Luis Porozo in round three of their scheduled six-round lightweight bout.

In round three, Muratalla sent Porozo down from a body shot. Muratalla ended it moments later when he landed a crushing right that sent Porozo down in the corner and he fight was stopped at 2:40.

Muratalla, 137.3 lbs of Fontana, CA is 11-0 with nine knockouts. Porozo, 135.2 lbs of Santo Domingo, ECU is 15-5.

Katie Taylor retained her undisputed Lightweight world title with a 10-round unanimous decision over an overmatched Miriam Gutierrez at the SSE Arena in London.

At the end of round four, Taylor dropped Gutierrez with a hard right-left combination. Taylor beat up Gutierrez, who hung in the fight, only to keep eating some vicious shots from Taylor.

Taylor, 134.7 lbs Bray, IRE won by scores of 100-89, 100-90 and 99-91 and is now 17-0. Gutierrez, 134.6 lbs of Madrid, SPA is 13-1.

“I thought it was a great overall performance,” Taylor told Matchroom afterwards. “I boxed well at long distance and close. I did a bit of everything in there tonight. I threw everything but the kitchen sink at her. I just couldn’t get her out of there. She’s tough as nails so credit to her. She hung in and she was there to fight until the very end. She’s obviously big and strong and that showed tonight. 

“I thought it was important for me to stamp my authority right from the first round. She hadn’t fought outside of Spain and was out of the ring for a year. I thought it would be good to start fast. I thought I was going to get her out of there at one stage. She hung in there and she kept swinging shots. She was actually very dangerous when she was swinging shots. I had to be a bit more cautious later on in the fight. Overall it was a great performance. 

“Obviously I would have loved to get a stoppage in there tonight. I haven’t got a stoppage in a long time. It is hard to hurt these girls, they’re very strong and durable. I did everything that I could to get the stoppage but she hung in and I have to be happy with a points win. I’m going home with all of the belts and I’m still the undisputed champion. I’m still unbeaten and this is a great end to the year.

“This was absolutely huge. I think every girl on the card tonight boxed brilliantly. Three fantastic fights. It’s just an amazing showcase. As I’ve said before, Eddie has given us this platform. Women’s boxing is on fire right now because of the platform he has given us. What an amazing few years of women’s boxing. That’s what it’s all about for myself, inspiring the next generation. Hopefully there was a few young girls watching through Facebook on the livestream. It’s all about inspiring the next generation and what an amazing platform to do it on.”

Harper Stops Thanderz in 9; Retains 130 lb. Title

Terri Harper retained the WBC Super Featherweight title with a 9th round stoppage over preciously undefeated mandatory challenger Katharina Thanderz.

Harper battered Thanderz, and in round nine, she landed hard body shots that broke the spirit of Thanderz, and the fight was stopped at 1:12 after barrage of punches.

Harper, 129.5 lbs of Denaby, ENG is 11-0-1 with six knockouts. Thanderz, 127.9 lbs of Oslo, NOR is 13-1.

“I’m buzzing,” said Harper. “That’s my birthday and Christmas all in one. That’s made my year. Obviously having that tough fight with Tasha, there was doubts, and there was wrongs that I needed to put right. We came away and I’ve worked my butt off. I’ve just gone out there and breezed it.

“I hurt my hand in the fourth round, I couldn’t throw it, and when I did throw it it was painful. I stuck to my jab, kept long and just moved. I knew she got frustrated at one point. She stood in the middle of the ring. I didn’t want to look like I was running but there was nothing else that I could really do. I’m happy.

“I caught her with the head, that’s probably from me lunging in, accidental. I could see that her nose was troubling her. The sound of her breathing changed. She was getting distracted by the blood. I threw a nice left hook to the body, caught her and I heard her wince. She backed off and I just went for the kill and the ref jumped in.

“I got a few stoppage wins early on in my career so it’s nice to get another one. I’m going to say a big thank you to my S&C coach Danny Wilson, he’s given me the confidence that I can go through those gears and that I have got the strength. God knows what I’m going to be like after my next camp. I want to fight the best. I’m coming for you Mayer! Slowly but surely we’ll get there and I’ll be punching you in the face very soon.”

Ball Decisions Guanini; Wins Interim Super Bantamweight Title

Rachel Ball won the vacant Interim WBC Super Bantamweight title with a 10-round unanimous decision over Jorgelina Guanini.

Ball, 121.9 lbs of Aldridge, ENG won by scores of 99-91 twice and 99-92 to raise her mark to 7-1. Guanini, 125.7 lbs of Buenos Aries, ARG is 9-2-2.

“I’m so grateful to Matchroom and BCB for continuing to support my journey,” said Ball. “I felt confident that it was mine. I was landing my shots pretty well. She was running around the ring and I feel like I used my distance a lot better. 

“Everything happens for a reason and perhaps she was what I needed at this time. Fair play to her, it was a really good fight. I’m glad I used my assets a bit more in this fight. When I had the opportunity I did go forwards. I went to the body a bit more which I’m pleased about.

“Look how far Terri has gone and look how far Katie has gone. I’d love to be able to be as successful as them. That would be amazing. It’s all good experience. I hope we inspire some girls out there to try boxing and do something different.”

Jack Cullen survived a knockdown early in round one to eek out a 10-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated John Docherty in a super middleweight bout.

Docherty dropped Cullen in the opening 30 seconds with a left on the inside. In round three, Docherty was cut under his right eye.

Cullen began to grind out rounds and won by scores of 96-94 twice and 95-94.

Cullen, 167.7 lbs of Little Leaver, UK is 19-2-1. Docherty, 116.9 lbs of Montrose, SCO is 9-1.

“First round I ended up slipping on my ass,” Cullen told Matchroom afterwards. “If people thought it was a knockdown, it wasn’t. I had to work and push it. Every time I went back to the corner Michael and Dave said, ‘look, you need to get stuck in here and dig deep’. That’s what I feel like I did to win the fight. 

“That’s the first time I’d ever fought a southpaw. I was getting caught with stupid shots for the first couple of rounds. It was time to tuck up and dig deep. I feel like I was really coming on after the fourth round. I still feel like it was a big step up for him.

“I take my hat off to him for taking the fight. We were supposed to be fighting different people tonight. We’re young and we’ll fight anybody, there’s no reason not to. There’s a lot more for me to work on. They’ve only had me for between six and eight weeks which isn’t a lot of time.

“I feel like I’m going to come on bigger, stronger and better. This is my natural weight at Super-Middle. I’ve grown into it and it’s time to takeover. I’m here for a fight and I’m here to takeover and win. I’m young and I’ve got self-belief. I feel like I’m good enough.”

Kash Farooq won a 10-round unanimous decision over Angel Aviles in a bantamweight contest.

Farooq, 117 lbs of Glasgow, SCO won by scores of 100-90, 100-91 and 99-91 and is now 14-1. Aviles, 120 lbs of Altamirano, MX is 20-6-1.

“First round I ended up slipping on my ass,” Cullen told Matchroom afterwards. “If people thought it was a knockdown, it wasn’t. I had to work and push it. Every time I went back to the corner Michael and Dave said, ‘look, you need to get stuck in here and dig deep’. That’s what I feel like I did to win the fight. 

“That’s the first time I’d ever fought a southpaw. I was getting caught with stupid shots for the first couple of rounds. It was time to tuck up and dig deep. I feel like I was really coming on after the fourth round. I still feel like it was a big step up for him.

“I take my hat off to him for taking the fight. We were supposed to be fighting different people tonight. We’re young and we’ll fight anybody, there’s no reason not to. There’s a lot more for me to work on. They’ve only had me for between six and eight weeks which isn’t a lot of time.

“I feel like I’m going to come on bigger, stronger and better. This is my natural weight at Super-Middle. I’ve grown into it and it’s time to takeover. I’m here for a fight and I’m here to takeover and win. I’m young and I’ve got self-belief. I feel like I’m good enough.”

Tursynbay Kulakhmet won a 10-round unanimous decision over Macaulay McGowan in a super welterweight fight in Wakefield, England.

Kulakhment, 154 lbs of Kazakhstan won on all cards by 99-89 scores and is now 2-0. McGowan, 153 lbs of Manchester, UK is 14-1-1.

Rafferty decisions Hill

Jack Rafferty won an eight-round decision over Tom Hill in a welterweight fight.

Rafferty, 150 lbs of Manchester, ENG won by a 78-75 score and is now 3-0. Hill, 150 lbs is 9-2

Paddy Donovan remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Jumaane Camero in a welterweight bout.

Donovan, 146 lbs of Limerick, IRE won by a score of 60-55 and is now 5-0. Camero, 146 lbs of Mitcham. ENG is 10-7.

n a fight featuring undefeated super welterweights, Jack Martin won a decision over Inder Bassi.

In round three, Bassi started to bleed around his nose. In round’s five and six, Martin began to batter Bassi that opened a cut around the left eye.

Martin, 155.4 lbs of Essex won by a score 59-55 and is 4-0. Bassi, 156 lbs is 2-1.

Lewis Edmonson stayed perfect by pounding out a four-round decision over Scott Williams in a light heavyweight bout.

Williams started bleeding from the nose in the final round.

Edmondson, 173.3 lbs of Southampton, ENG won by a 40-36 score and is now 3-0. Williams, 171 lbs of Manchester, ENG is 0-9.

Devin Haney retained the WBC Lightweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over former world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa at the Seminold Hard Rock Resort in Hollywood, Florida.

Haney was dominant throughout the contest as kept Gamboa at bay by landing jabs and right hands.

In round 11, Gamboa was docked a point for holding.

Haney landed 133 of 401 punches. Gamboa was 84 of 472.

Haney, 135 lbs of Las Vegas won by scores of 120-107 twice and 118-109 to raise his udefeated mark to 25-0. Gamboa, 135 lbs of Miami, FL is 30-4.

“I’m pleased with the performance because I didn’t take any punishment,” said Haney. “I came out of there looking like I did when I went in, I was ready to fight again if I had to.
 
“I knew that he would go into survival mode and he was successful with that, he was in there trying to survive as much as he did. I pitched a shut-out and I didn’t get hit with any big shots, it is what it is. 
 
“Of course I wanted the KO but every fight can’t end like that. Gamboa is a crafty opponent, he showed that he can survive, he showed why he has been in the game for a long time. Anyone that has knocked him out has taken punishment while doing it, I didn’t take any punishment and maybe that’s why I didn’t get the KO.
 
“I beat him the smartest. The jab, the reach, the speed and the ring IQ were the keys to victory. I showed that I am able to go 12 rounds, to hit and not get hit, you can talk about landing big shots but Gamboa didn’t land anything.
 
“There’s always going to be pressure, every fight is going to have everyone watching and critiquing what you do, I understand that. I am ready to put on a big 2021 and fight best and put on a statement to show the world that I am the best.
 
“I am interested in my mandatory of course but I want all the belts, Teofimo Lopez has the rest of the belts so I want to make the undisputed fight.”

Hrgovic stops Booker in 5

Filip Hrgovic remained undefeated with a 5th round stoppage over Rydell Booker in a heavyweight bout.

In round two, Hrgovic dropped Booker with a chopping right to the head. Hrgovic continued to pound away at Booker until the bout was stopped at 47 seconds.

Hrgovic, 242.6 lbs of Zagreb, CRO is 11-0 with nine knockouts. Booker, 248 lbs of Detroit, MI is 26-3.

After the fight Hrgovic said “I have a message to the heavyweight division. Fight me. There are big fights out there, I am ready for all of them. I can out box and I can knockout. Tonight, Rydell was good and it was good to get the win against him, but now I want to look to who is next. I am ready.

Promoter Nisse Sauerland followed “Tonight we saw Filip do what he said he was going to do at the press conference. He was going to outbox and knockout a man who hadn’t been knocked out before. He showed his ability to control fights, he has 10 knockouts from 12 fights, 5 now consecutive.”

“Credit to Rydell Booker, he took the fight and tried to come forward. He’s a good boxer with a good record, but tonight he had no way of finding a way through. Filip belongs at the top table, and soon he’ll be there.”

Zhilel Zhang remained undefeated by stopping Devin Vargas in round four of a scheduled 10-round heavyweight fight.

In round four, Zhang landed a counter right and left that dropped Vargas, and the fight was over at 49 seconds.

Zhang, 259.6 lbs of Las Vegas is 22-0 with 17 knockouts. Vargas, 226 lbs of Sylvania, OH is 22-7.

Reshat Mati stopped Marcos Mojica in round two of their scheduled six-round welterweight bout.

In round one, Mati dropped Mojica with a shirt left hook In round two, Mati dropped Mojica with an uppercut, and shortly thereafter, the fight was stopped at 44 seconds.

Mati, 146 lbs of Staten Island, NY is 8-0 with six knockouts. Mojica, 146.4 lbs of West Palm Beach , FL is 17-6-2.

Raymond Ford remained undefeated with a 3rd round stoppage over Rafael Reyes in a featherweight bout.

In round one, Ford dropped Reyes with a straight left. In round three, it was another left that sent Reyes to the canvas. Ford then landed about 12 unanswered punches, and the fight was stopped at 1:26.

Ford, 125.8 lbs of Camden, NJ is 7-0 with three knockouts. Reyes, 123 lbs of Clovis, MX is 18-11.

Arthur Biyarslanov stopped Juan Jose Martinez in round one of a scheduled six-round super lightweight fight.

Biyarslanov dropped Martinez with a right hook to the side of the head and the fight was stopped at 59 seconds.

Biyarslanov, 141 lbs of Toronto, CAN is7-0 with six knockouts. Martinez, 141.8 lbs of Mexico City is 28-10.

Former world title challenger Luis Ortiz stopped an overmatched Alexander Flores just 45 seconds into their 10-round heavyweight bout at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.

Ortiz hit Flores from what looked like a non-descript body shot that put Flores down for the 10-count.

Ortiz, 241.6 lbs of Cuba is 32-2 with 27 knockouts. Flores, 231.8 lbs of Rowland Heights, CA is 18-3-1.

Frank Sanchez remained undefeated by stopping Brian Howard in round four of their scheduled 10-round heavyweight bout.

Sanchez dropped Howard in round three with a right hand. In round four, Sanchez registered three knockdowns, and the fight was stopped at 2:07.

Sanchez, 227.6 lbs of Cuba is 16-0 with 12 knocouts. Howard, 210 lbs of Bartow, FL is 15-4.

Michael Coffie stopped Joey Abell in round two of their eight-round heavyweight bout.

In round two, Coffie sent Abell down with a body shot. Abell did not beat the count. Abell seemed to have torn a bicep while trying to throw a punch.

Coffie, 267.8 lbs of Bronx, NY is 11-0 with eight knockouts. Abell, 250.8 lbs of Niccask, WI is 35-11.

Carlos Negron stopped Rafael Rios in round two of a scheduled eight-round heavyweight bout.

Negron dropped Rios in round two from a combination of punches, and the fight was stopped at 2:33.

Negron, 246 lbs of Villalloa, PR is 22-3 with 18 knockoust. Rios, 249.4 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 11-3.

Eimantas Stanionis remained undefeated with a 9th round stoppage over Justin DeLoach at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles.

In round nine, Stanionis dropped DeLoach with a right hand Seconds later, it was a flurry that sent DeLoach down for a second time. Stanionis finished the deal with a hard combination on a hurt DeLoach and the bout was stopped at 2:53.

Stanionis, 147 lbs of Lithuania is 11-0 with eight knockouts. DeLoach, 146.6 lbs of Augusta, GA is 19-5.

Cruz stops Castillo in 2

Kent Cruz stopped Erik Castillo in round two of a scheduled eight-round junior welterweight bout.

Castillo seemed hurt and the corner stopped the bout at 2:59.

Cruz, 139.6 lbs of Saint Louis, MO is 16-0-1 with 10 knockouts. Castillo, 145 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 9-3.

Booker Decisions Duversonne

Chordale Booker won a close eight-round split decision over Sonny Duversonne in a junior middleweight bout.

In round four, Booker began to bleed from his nose.

Booker landed 132 of 411 punches; Duversonne was 131 of 491.

Booker, 154.6 lbs of Stamford, CT won by scores of 77-75 twice while Duversonne took a card 77-75.

Booker is now 16-0. Duversonne, 154.6 lbs of Miami, FL is 11-2-2.

Alexander Povetkin has been forced to withdraw from his Saturday November 21 contest with Dillian Whyte due to testing positive for COVID-19.

The pair were due to rematch at The SSE Arena, Wembley, live on Sky Sports Box Office but will now face each other on a later date to be confirmed soon.

Further details on the November 21 show will follow shortly.

“Firstly we want to wish Alexander Povetkin a speedy recovery,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “This is a challenging time for shows. There will be lots of ups and downs over the next few months. We look forward to the fight happening in late January.”

In his 1st Pay-Per-View Headline appearance, Geronta Davis did not disappoint as he scored a sensational 6th round stoppage over Leo Santa Cruz and is now the the WBA Super Featherweight and Lightweight champion in a bout that was in front over 9,000 fans at The Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.

The fight started out at a blistering pace with both guys throwing and landing lots of shots in the opening frame. The fight was on pretty much even terms over the next four-plus rounds with each guy taking turns being the boss in the contest.

Santa Cruz was effect with his combination punching, while Davis waiting on his left uppercut. He was not disappointed as he landed a head turnimg shot in round six that knocked Santa Cruz completely out as he plummeted into the bottom of the ring post and the fight was stopped at 2:40 of round six.

Davis, 129.8 lbs of Baltimore, MD is now 24-0 with 23 knockouts. Santa Cruz, 129.5 lbs of Los Angeles, CA is 37-2-1.

GERVONTA DAVIS

“The uppercut wasn’t the key coming into the fight, but I adapted to what he was bringing. I knew he was taller and crouching down and moving forward. Once he moved forward, I tried to jab and make him run into the shot.

“In the first couple of rounds I wasn’t really warmed up. I could tell that he was trying to counter off of me, so I just adapted to what he was doing.

“He was right there for it. He punches, but he doesn’t try to get out of the way. There was nowhere for him to go on that knockout because I got him into the corner.

“Leo is a tough warrior and a strong Mexican fighter. He came ready for me. I was just the better fighter tonight.

“I want to maintain both belts. Whatever decision me and my team comes up with, we’ll go with it. I’m not ducking or dodging anybody.

“I’m a pay-per-view star. Everybody knows I’m number one and I showed it tonight. I’m going to continue to show people all over the world that I’m the best. I don’t have to call anybody else out. I’m the top dog. Just line them up and I’ll knock them out.”

“I was just breaking him down. He’s tough and was trying to play it off, but I could tell that he was breaking down. He wanted to keep fighting back.

“He touched me with shots early that I wasn’t supposed to get touched with. I started settling down and listening to my coach and Floyd. There’s a lot of pressure early in the fight. Floyd was just telling me to stay calm. I always want to go out and get at them, but Floyd always says, I’m a 12-round fighter.

“Everyone has their opinion, but I always felt like I’m the biggest star in the sport. I don’t need to go talk about other fighters.

“This is an amazing feeling. This is just the start. I have to thank everyone who helped me get to this point.

“I saw in round one that he was countering my jab. I knew he was coming with more than one punch. I started getting out of the way after I got my shots off. Once I started going to his body, I started to break him down. He had a lot of heart, and his mind told him to keep pushing through it.

“We worked on the uppercut, but it was really me adapting to the timing of the fight. He was blocking the uppercut at first. So I started switching it up and throwing hooks when he thought the uppercut was coming.

“I didn’t get tired at any point in the fight. If he kept the pace up, I was going to box around him. I have to thank my whole team for getting me into top shape.

“I didn’t take too much punishment so I’m just going to take a week or a week and a half off and get back to Las Vegas. At this point it’s best for me to stay in the gym so I’m going to keep that up.

“It’s not up to me to say who’s on the pound-for-pound list. Me and my team believe that I’m on it. The people see what’s going on and they see what’s happening tonight.

“I knew I had the speed and power advantage coming into the fight. But he caught me a couple times. So it was more about timing than speed.

“I feel strong at 130 pounds. It’s just up to me to stay in the gym. I feel good at the weight. But if there’s a good opportunity at 135 I’m ready to make it happen.

FLOYD MAYWEATHER

“It was an amazing performance. I’m just happy for him. I know how he feels. I used to be that same kid sitting right here. It feels great to be on this side and able to give back knowledge to help him grow. If anybody can become a household name, it’s this kid right here.

“’Tank’ had a long training camp and we’re going to enjoy this victory. ‘Tank’ is the top dog. He’s on pay-per-view for a reason. We don’t want to start calling out names. We want to let him go home and enjoy himself with his family and team. He’s going to keep proving to the world that he’s the best.”

CALVIN FORD

“I thought Leo was going to box more. But that’s what makes Leo a great champion. He comes to fight. He did some things to ‘Tank’ that I didn’t like to see.

“That uppercut is a shot we’ve been working on for a while. If you listen you can hear me telling him to shoot the uppercut. Leo was pressing the issue and coming to him. He was hitting ‘Tank’ to the body a lot, but ‘Tank’ found a place to land the shot. At the end of the day, ‘Tank’ closed the show.”

Barrios Stops Karl in 6 to Retain 140 lb. Title

Mario Barrios stopped a bloody and battered Ryan Karl in round six to retain the WBA Super Lightweight title.

In round six, Barrios dropped Karl with a hard right hand. Later in the round a clash of heads opened up a nasty gash on the forehead of Karl. Karl fought with all of heart but then ate another left hand that dropped him face-first and the fight was stopped at 2:23.

Barrios, 139.5 lbs of San Antonio is now 26-0 with 17 knockouts. Karl, 140 lbs of Milanon, TX is 18-3.

Tonight’s Alamodome attendance is: 9,024

MARIO BARRIOS

“It took a minute to get used to his pressure, he was very awkward. I eventually found my rhythm as the rounds started progressing.

“I’d give myself a B. I had a little trouble finding my jab because of his pressure. I thought I was slipping his shots well and finding my shots up the middle.

“He was throwing with bad intentions. He landed some punches. But there wasn’t anything that hurt me or that threw me off.

“I’m very excited by the outcome of this fight. It’s an honor to be the first fighter from San Antonio to defend his world title.

“I’m in the sport to give fans exciting fights. A fight with Regis Prograis would be huge. That’s a fight that’s very likely to happen.

“I didn’t feel any ring rust tonight. I was just being patient and I was ready for a 12 round fight. I was just taking my time, picking my spots and avoiding his wild shots.

“I’m one of the stronger fighters at 140. I showed I carried my power for 12 rounds against Batyr Akhemdov. I think the rest of the division should take notice of that.  

“Part of my style is attacking the body. I’ve always been a fan of body shots. They really pay off in the 12 round fights in the middle and late rounds. I knew Ryan’s style and I knew I had to slow him down so he wouldn’t be so rough for 12 rounds.

“This fight is for everybody who came out here in San Antonio tonight. I told them we’d get this first title defense, and I hope everyone enjoyed it.  

“I’ve known Ryan a long time. I knew he was going to come hard at me, but I also knew that it was his only chance. I was just being patient and picking my shots. I started to really land them and got him out of there.

“I was ready to go a hard 12 rounds, but my patience helped me get him out of there. I listened to what Virgil was telling me in the corner. It was great to get the job done here at home

“Virgil has meant so much to me. He’s more than a coach to me. He’s a mentor and like a part of my family.”

Ryan Karl:

“I feel fine. Hard hit that I got hit with. It was a tough fight, good fight, close fight I felt like. Good headbutt, bleeding pretty good but overall I feel fine. I’m not a sore loser. I come to fight, that’s what I expected was a fight. And so congrats to Mario on the win. We’ll move on from here.

“I wish the referee never would’ve stopped it. That’s how I feel about fights. I felt like I wanted to fight, I wanted a chance to get up and continue. But it is what it is. That’s his job, he has his and I have mine. And we obviously have different mindsets, because I’m the one fighting. But of course, like I said I would always like to continue if I have a chance.

“He’s a good fighter. He beat me. I felt like if I would’ve had more rounds it could’ve been different, but he’s a very good fighter and I take nothing from him.

“Hopefully another shot is next. That’s really all I want. I’m game and I’m here to fight.”

Prograis Stops Heraldez in 3

Regis Prograis stopped previously undefeated Juan Heraldez in round three of a scheduled 10-round junior welterweight fight.

In round three, Prograis dropped Heraldez with a blistering left. Herladez never was able to get back into the fight as Prograis pounded Herladez with more left hands until the fight was stopped at 1:23.

Prograis, 141.6 lbs of Houston, TX is 25-1 with 21 knockouts. Heraldez, 139.5 lbs of Las Vegas is 16-1-1.

Photo Credit: Esther Lin / SHOWTIME

FLASH QUOTES:

Regis Prograis

“I’ve been out of the ring for a year so I think that had some effect on me not making weight. There’s no excuses, but the bubble also had some effect. Mainly it was the layoff though. My body wasn’t adjusted to making the weight again.

“My wife just told me to get this over with because she’s due to give birth any minute now. I’m living two hours away from here so I’m going home right after this.

“I still feel like I’m the best at 140. I’m going to keep proving it every time I fight. Me and Josh Taylor had a close fight, and I think if it had happened in the U.S. U would have won. We know that one day we’ll have to rematch at 140 or 147.

“It went pretty well. I congratulate Juan because he was a tough opponent for me to get back against. I’m just glad to be back. My grandpa died on the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina and this win is dedicated to him.  

“If the Barrios thing is on the table in the future, then we’ll do that.”

Juan Heraldez

“I thought it was an early stoppage. I was just getting warm, loose. He stunned me, but I don’t think they should’ve stopped the fight. I just thought it was an early stoppage.”

Cruz Destroys Magdaleno in 53 seconds

Isaac Cruz destroyed former world title challenger Diego Magdaleno in 53 seconds of their 10-round lightweight bout.

Cruz came out and landed a heavy barrage of punches that sent Magdaleno down in the opening 30 seconds. Upon getting up, Magdaleno ate a even heavier barrage that culminated by a devastating uppercut that sent Magdaleno down and the fight was stopped.

Cruz, 132 lbs of Mexico City is 20-1-1 with 15 knockouts. Magdaleno, 134.75 lbs of Las Vegas is 32-4.

Isaac Cruz

“The new Mike Tyson from Mexico was born tonight.

“I thought it would go longer tonight, but my natural instinct is always to go for it in the first round. I have confidence that I could win the world title right now. I thought it was a statement win. From now, on hopefully everyone will know my name and I’ll get the big fights.

“I would love a Teofimo Lopez fight. I’m very motivated right now. If he’s tough enough to take it, bring it on. I’m happy to be in this position in the division.

“My team did a great job getting me ready and I knew that I had to be prepared for a big fight no matter what else is going on. I trained for three months for this fight and was happy to be able to perform in front of an audience. If I get another fight right now, I’ll take it right away and do the same thing.”

Diego Magdaleno

“I don’t want to make any excuses but I’ve been fighting some heartburn. But he came out swinging and I was trying to adjust in there. I guess I was just fighting two different things in there. You know, stung cold, and got hit. That’s it.”

Naoya Inoue affirmed that he is one of the best fighters in the world as he took out Jason Moloney in round seven to retain the WBA/IBF Bantamweight title at the MGM Grand Bubble Conference Center in Las Vegas.

In Round six, Inoue scored a knockdown with a counter right.

In the final seconds of round seven, Inoue landed a brutal right hand that folded Moloney to the canvas. The fight was stopped after Moloney unsuccessfully tried to get up at 2:59.

Inoue, 117.7 lbs of Yokahama, JAP is 20-0 with 17 knockouts. Moloney, 117.9 lbs of Melbourne, AUS is 21-2.

Inoue said, ““The final punch, the finishing punch, I’m very happy and satisfied with that punch.

“Moloney has a great defense, and it was very difficult to get through. The two punches you mentioned are something we really practiced in Japan a lot, and I was able to perform well and use it, and I’m very happy with that.”

Added Bob Arum, Top Rank Chairman: “The Monster is a special fighter. I haven’t seen a young fighter like that in a long time. And credit to Jason Moloney for fighting like a warrior. He gave it his absolute best.”

Mayer Decisions Brodnicka; Wins WBO Jr. Lightweight Title

Mikaela Mayer won the WBO Junior Lightweight world title with an emphatic 10-round unanimous decision over Ewa Brodnicka.

Mayer dominated the fight on the inside, where Brodnick could only hold. Brodnicka was docked points in round six and seven for holding.

Mayer landed 160 of 529 punches; Brodnicka was 86 of 313.

Mayer, 129.8 lbs of Los Angeles won by scores of 100-88 twice and 99-89 is now 14-0. Brodnicka, who lost her belt at the scales on Friday as she was .1 pounds over the 130-lb. limit is now 19-1.

“I definitely want to unify this division. I don’t want to wait around. I don’t want to take a couple of years to do it. I want to do it right away. So, {WBC champion} Terri Harper told me to get a belt. Eddie Hearn told me to get a belt. I have the WBO belt now, so let’s make that fight happen. I want Terri Harper next.”

Robson Conceicao was dropped and docked two points, but some how was able to eek out a razor thin unanimous decision over Luis Coria in a junior lightweight fight.

In round two, Coria dropped Conceicao with a left hook. In Round four, Conceicao was deducted a point for a low blow. Conceicao was docked another point for a low blow. The fight was a toe-to-toe battle that both land hard shots with Conceicao getting the disputed win.

Conceicao, 128.8 lbs of Brazil won by scores of 95-92 twice and 94-93 and is now 15-0. Coria, 128.6 lbs of Moreno Valley, CA is 12-4.

Julian Rodriguez stopped Jose Lopez in round three of a scheduled 10-round junior welterweight bout.

Rodriguez dropped Lopez four times, and the fight was stopped at 2:10 of round three

Rodriguez, 142.6 lbs of Bergan County, NJ is 21-0 with 14 knockouts. Lopez, 142.3 lbs of Tormon, MN is 29-8-2.

Jared Anderson stopped Luis Eduardo Pena in round one of a scheduled six-round heavyweight bout.

Anderson landed a plethora of power punches to the head and body and Pena took a ferocious beating until the bout was stopped at 2:14.

Anderson, 246.1 lbs of Toledo, OH is 7-0 with seven knockouts. Pena, 229.6 lbs of Oxnard, CA is 6-2.

Andy Hiroka remained undefeated with a 4th round stoppage over Rickey Edwards in a scheduled eight-round junior welterweight bout.

Early in round three, Hiroka sent Edwards to the canvas with a right hook. It was another right hook that put Edwards down in the 4th. Later in the round, with Edwards hurt, a barrage of punches sent Edwards down again. A few seconds later, Hiroka landed a flurry that forced the stoppage at 2:20.

Hiroka, 140.9 lbs of Yokahama, JAP is 16-0 with 10 knockouts. Edwards, 140.7 lbs of Paterson, NJ is 12-5.

Oleksandr Usyk won a tough and hard fought 12-round unanimous decision over Derek Chisora in a heavyweught at the SSE Arena in London

After a fast start by Chiora where he threw a lot of punches over the first half of the fight, Usyk started to find his mark, especially in round seven, where he landed combinations that started to make Chisora go back. The two waged a tough battle down the stretch, but it was Usyk who was able to settle the pace down and pick away at a tiring Chisora and come home with the 117-111, 115-113, 115-113 victory.

Usuk, 217.4 lbs of Ukraine is 18-0. Chisora, 255.8 lbs is 32-10.

“I was very happy to be back in the ring,” Usyk told Matchroom afterwards. “I haven’t fought for more than a year. It was a huge pleasure for me. You saw my smile when I went into the ring. I really want to thank god for this victory. Derek has big power, he has strong punches but I was prepared for it.

“I didn’t think about his boxing IQ. All I was thinking about was the boxing and what I wanted to do. I am very thankful for Derek giving me this opportunity. I am very thankful to this family and his team. I am happy. He is a good man. Anthony (Joshua), how are you? I am coming for you.”

Usyk told Sky Sports: “Chisora a big guy, a hard guy. I was expecting a fight like that, I was expecting a tougher fight. My plan is to go to my home, maximum time with my family. Training and improving myself. Not just World Champion, the Undisputed World Champion [is my aim].”

A disappointed Chisora reacted to defeat: “I feel great. I was pushing the pace. I’m just disappointed with the result, gutted. To everybody who can’t make it [to the fight], I’m gutted for everybody. In the Heavyweight game, you have to fight not box. I gave a couple of rounds away.”

Kambosos Jr. Decisions Selby in Title Eliminator

George Kambosos Jr. won a 12-round split decision over former featherweight champion Lee Selby in an IBF Lightweight Title Elimination bout.

Kambosos, 134.9 lbs of Australia won by scores of 118-110 and 116-112, while Selby won a card 115-114.

Kambosos is now 19-0. Selby, 134.9 lbs of Wales is 28-3.

“I can’t get this smile off my face,” said Kambosos Jr. “It hasn’t sunk in yet. I dug deep and I won a lot of them rounds. The big shots landed and I thought he was hurt a few times. That’s a former World Champion. The guy is still a very respected fighter. It was a great win. That’s two former World Champions in their backyards. I’m a road warrior. I’m a proud Aussie. I knew I won the fight. The whole time people thought I was being arrogant. I was never arrogant to him. It’s just confidence and self belief. I’m a young hungry lion. I was never arrogant to him. I respect him. 

“I knew the job I would do. I’m a confident fighter and I back my ability. I thought I hurt him a few times and I thought he nearly went. He’s an experienced guy and he beat Ricky Burns in his last fight. I’m the young hungry guy coming up. That was a great win. That’s another twelve rounds in my bank. The body shots busted him up. The right hand to the body, the stiff jab to the body. I was very composed. I feel like I’m in my prime. There’s so much more work to do. I’m coming for the Unified Lightweight World Title against Teofimo Lopez. Two young hungry fighters!”

Marshall Stops Rankin in 7 To win Middleweight Title

Savannah Marshall won the WBO Middleweight title with a 7th round stoppage over Hannah Rankin

In round seven, Rankin took a knee after being battered around the whole ring, and the bout was stopped at 1:59.

Marshall, 159.4 lbs of Hardspool, UK is 9-0 with seven knockouts. Rankin, 158 .4 of Glasgow, SCO is 9-5.

“I’m absolutely over the moon,” Marshall told Matchroom. “Fair play to Hannah. She’s an amazing fighter with big heart and I’ve got loads of respect for her. I’m just thrilled to bits. I knew I was good enough. I’ve always known I was good enough. The chances have just never been there for me. Thank god it came tonight. Me and Hannah sold that fight, we really sold that fight. I don’t know what it was like for her but there was no real bad blood there for me. 

“With Peter testing positive two weeks ago, I thought that was just typical me! I just had to ride the wave. I think England has got the best female professional boxers. COVID was a blessing because it’s brought them all out. I’m the first female boxer to be an amateur World Champion and a professional World Champion. I beat the men. I beat the men to it. It’s just a dream. 

“The pool isn’t that big at the higher weights. I’d like to go up to Super-Middleweight. I’m not really interested in Super-Welter. I think my power stays at Middle. I’ve just battered Claressa Shields’ mate. I’ve just battered her best mate. I’m sure she said Hannah was going to stop me. So what does that say about her boxing IQ. She couldn’t get Rankin out of there. Hannah is a brave fighter. Claressa couldn’t do that. Me against Shields is the biggest fight in women’s boxing. Let’s get it on. I want a piece of it.”

McCarthy Decisions Laggoune to Win European Cruiserweight Title

Tommy McCarthy won the European Cruiserweight Title with a 12-round majority decision over Bilal Laggoune.

McCarthy, 199.8 lbs of Belfast, NI won by scores of 116-112, 116-113 and 114-114 to raise his mark to 17-2. Laggoune, 199.8 lbs of Belgium is 25-2-2.

“I’m over the moon,” McCarthy told Matchroom. “It’s taken a lifetime of work to get to this point. This is just the beginning for me. I want bigger and better things. I’m so happy and proud of myself. I’m proud of my team. I can’t even remember what the scores were to be honest, but as long as they had me winning, that’s all that matters. It’s surreal. I thought I was going to start balling my eyes out. I couldn’t go back home and have everyone slagging me for being a cry baby! I held it together and I’m still holding it together! I’m emotional because this has been a long time coming. 

“I’ve been knocking on the door for a long time. Now it’s all starting to come into play. I’d like to shout out my team; Mark Dunlop, Pete Taylor and everyone else for making this possible. Next year I would love to fight Mairis Briedis. He’s the number one Cruiserweight in the world, and I want to be number one.He is the guy I want, but I’d take any one of them to be honest. Anyone who has a belt, big Mac is onto you! I know my family are proud. I’m looking forward to getting home to them in the morning. Hopefully they will spoil me, I don’t want to do any housework for the next two weeks!

“I should probably thank Richard Riakporhe for giving me the kick up the ass that I needed. It’s never happening again (losing). I’m here now. I’m the champion of Europe. The world is my oyster. Peter has moulded me into the boxer that I knew I always could be. This is the one thing that I know I can do very well. I wasn’t going to let anyone stop me doing it. Shout out to everybody in West Belfast and shout out to everyone in Greater Belfast.”

Ramla Ali won her pro debut with a six-round decision over Eva Hubmeyer in a super bantamweight fight.

Ali, 124.9 lbs of Bethnel Green won by a 60-54 score and is 1-0. Hubmeyer, 128.8 lbs of Germany is 1-1.

“I’m not going to say I was crap, but I was a bit disappointed with how I performed tonight,” Ali told Matchroom afterwards. “I allowed her, being a shorter opponent, to get into range way too much. I think it was just the nerves kicking in with it being my professional debut. I think I let all of that get to me and I allowed her to get into range. I should have kept her long. I think that’s what I’m most disappointed with. 

“When you come from the amateurs and you go into international competitions, you don’t get a say in who you’re going to compete with. You could have someone that is rushing at you like a bulldog and you just have to keep them away as much as possible. I feel like my years in the amateurs prepared me for that. The majority of the time I knew how to keep her away. My experience came into play there for sure. 

“It felt amazing when I connected with her face with the smaller gloves. When it lands on your face it isn’t nice! You have to take some to give some. The majority of the time you don’t really feel it because of all of the adrenaline that is rushing through you. It’s a huge difference to the amateurs but I’m learning to appreciate it.

“I think I’ve been promised an opportunity on the undercard of Anthony Joshua vs. Kubrat Pulev unless things chance, so I’m really hoping to have another fight this year. The last fight I had was in February. It has been a long time out. They always say you get quite rusty when you come back in. I’m hoping to improve on tonight’s performance in December for sure. I hope I was entertaining. I hope people enjoyed watching me tonight.”

Amy Timlin and Carky Skelly battled to a 10-round draw in a super bantamweight contest.

Timlin won a scorecard 96-95; Skelly 97-96 and 95-95.

Timlin, 120.8 lbs of Southam is 4-0-1. Skelly, 119.8 lbs of Liverpool is 3-0-1.

“It was heartbreaking because I’ve trained so hard for it,” Timlin told Sky Sports afterwards. “You can’t really fault the result because it was a close fight, and I thought I won some rounds and she won some rounds. I think it was a fair decision. I would love to do that fight again. I think styles make fights. That was a really good fight and I’d love to do the rematch. It could have gone either way.”

“It’s frustrating,” Skelly told Sky Sports afterwards. “It was quite close early on but I thought I came on stronger at the end. It’s hard to say. I’ll have to watch it back and see what I think. I thought I done enough. Just being here tonight was a boss opportunity for the both of us. Hopefully we get to do it again and we’ll get it decided in the next one. 100% I’d do it again.”

Former junior middleweight world champion Jaime Munguia stopped Tureano Johnson in round six of their scheduled 12-round middleweight bout at The Fantasy Springs Resort in Indio, California.

Johnson came up and got in the chest of Munguia and was able to have success with some good overhand rights. Both fighters were landing some good shots in close.

In round six, the lip of Johnson was split open badly from a Manguia right uppercut. The fight was stopped as the cut split Johnson’s lip in half.

Munguia, 159.8 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 36-0 with 29 knockouts. Johnson, 159.6 lbs of Nassau, BAH is 21-3-1.

“I’m delighted to get the victory,” said Jaime Munguia. “He surprised us early in the fight. He has a style that makes one very uncomfortable. But my corner told me to adjust and find my distance. Then I found the right uppercut. I saw that he had gotten cut from it, and then it was just a matter of time. I am ready for all the best fighters of my division.”

Ellis Decisions Rocha

In a battle of undefeated welterweights, Rashidi Ellis won a 12-round unanimous decision over Alexis Rocha.

Ellis landed 171 of 709 punches; Rocha was 149 of 683.

Ellis, 146.8 lbs of Lynn, MA won by scores of 116-112 twice and 115-113 and is now 23-0. Rocha, 146.6 lbs of Santa Ana, CA is 16-1.

“Coming off a year-long layoff, I think my performance was great,” said Rashidi Ellis. “I did my thing and got a unanimous decision win against an undefeated, young prospect. He was a solid opponent. I knew it was going be tough since I’ve known him since the amateurs. I want all of the champions now.”

Soto Decisions Buitrago; Retains Light Flyweight Title

Elwin Soto retained the WBO Light Flyweight championship with a 12-round unanimous decision over Carlos Buitrago.

Soto landed 170-550 Punches; Buitrago was 147 of 798.

Soto, 107.4 lbs of San Felipe, MEX won by scores of 119-109, 117-111 and 115-13 to go to 18-1. Buitrago, 107.8 lbs of Managua, NIC is 32-6-1.

“I’m very happy to walk away with the victory I tried pressure as much as I good to score a win. These are the kind of tough fights you are in when a world title is at stake. His style was difficult for me, but I felt I did enough to win. Now it’s time for me to rest and see what my team has in store for me,” said Soto.

Esparza Decisions Urbina

Marlen Esparza won a eight-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Sulem Urbina in a flyweight bout.

In round seven, Urbina’s left eye began to swell.

Esparza landed 125-490 punches; Urbina was 122-450

Esparza, 111.8 lbs of Houston, TX won by scores 80-72 twice and 78-74 and is now 8-1. Urbina, 111.6 lbs of Hermosillo, MEX is 12-1.

“I want to thank the WBC for this opportunity; I knew coming into this fight it would be a worthy fight, and I was very excited to showcase what I can do. I know there’s been a lot of changes in my camp since the last fight, all the reason for me to show the world what I can do. I’m ready to fight for the WBC Title next. Thank you to God, Golden Boy, and all my fans; l won’t let you down!”, Said Esparza.

Sergey Lipinets and Custio Clayton battled to a 12-round majority draw in an IBF Interim Welterweight World title bout at the Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut.

The fight was a close battle that saw Lipinets try to press the action, while Clayton countered effectively by showing a strong jab and counter attack. Clayton showed his mettle in the later rounds and he threw and landed more punches.

Lipinets landed 175 of 610 punches; Clayton was 247 of 687.

In the end, Clayton won a card 115-113, while two cards were even at 114-114.

Lipinets, 147 lbs of Kazakhstan is 16-1-1. Clayton, 147 lbs of Dartmouth, CAN is 18-0-1.

Sergey Lipinets

“I thought I won the fight, but Clayton is a good fighter. He was stronger than I thought he’d be. I haven’t fought in a year and it shows. I need to get my rhythm back in a couple of fights before I face the top level fighters.

“For the interim title, I’ll be ready for a rematch with Clayton.

“The guy didn’t do anything and he was running. I threw more punches and I connected on more punches.”

Custio Clayton

“I thought I did enough to win the fight. It was a close fight, but I landed the cleaner shots.

“At the end of the day, you can’t knock the judges’ decision, but I thought that I landed the cleaner shots and won. He came forward a lot, but he wasn’t landing as much. I probably could have pushed more a little earlier, but at the same time, I knew he was strong. I thought I stayed patient and poised. I could have put combinations together quicker, but overall I thought I fought a smart fight and pulled it off.

“I showed the world that I’m not just a guy from Canada. I proved I’m a good fighter. People will have to respect me a little bit more. If Lipinets wants the rematch for the interim title, we should be able to make that happen.”

Martinez survives Two Knockdowns; Decisions Marrero

Xavier Martinez was able to withstand two knockdowns, and win a 12-round unanimous decision over former world title challenger Claudio Marrero in a super featherweight bout.

Martinez controlled the 1st seven-plus rounds.

In round eight, Marrero dropped Martinez with a short right hook. Seconds later, it was a hard flurry of about six punches that put Martinez down for a 2nd time. A mouse started to form under the right eye of Marrero. In round 10, Marrero began to swell around his right eye.

Martinez landed 128 of 579 punches; Marrero was 161 of 625

Martinez was able to bank enough rounds down the stretch, and win by scores of 115-111 and 114-112 twice.

Martinez, 130 lbs of Sacramento, CA is 16-0. Marrero, 130.75 lbs of Santo Domingo, DR is 24-5.

Xavier Martínez 

“To be honest, it was weird when I got knocked down. I just said, ‘Let’s get back up.’ Losing wasn’t on my mind. I just thought I have to get up. I’m not happy I went down but it’s all an experience. A lot of guys wouldn’t have fought Claudio. He was tough. But I rose to the occasion and I proved something to myself.

“Not every win is going to be pretty and a knockout, but if you can pull yourself out of tough situations it proves what type of fighter you are.

“I knew it wasn’t going to be a cake walk. I told [trainer] Ray [Woods] I might hit this guy a couple of times and he might not drop. It’s all part of the experience.”

Claudio Marrero

“I feel like it was a bad decision. I don’t think the judges took into account all the hard work I did in the ring. I wouldn’t do anything different if I fought him again. I would fight the same way. I fought smart and I put pressure on him.

“He hits hard, but I recovered quickly. I felt like I won the fight.”

Matias Stops Hawkins in 7!!

Subriel Matias stopped previously undefeated Malik Hawkins in round seven of their scheduled 10-round junior welterweight bout.

Matias applied immense pressure throughout the fight that had Hawkins going back.

In round six, Matias landed a left hook to the head that sent Hawkins to a knee. The right eye of Hawkins started to swell and the fight was stopped one-second into round seven.

Matias, 139.5 lbs of Fajardo, PR is 16-1 with all 16 coming via stoppage. Hawkins, 140 lbs of Baltimore, MD is 18-1.

Subriel Matías

“The biggest difference between this fight and my last loss was the way I trained in the gym. I didn’t train as much as I should have (for the last fight). Malik didn’t have the power to hurt me. In the first round, I knew that. And that’s when I kept moving forward and starting hurting him in the body. And that’s what I kept doing, just going to the body.

“I’ll fight anyone. Whoever they put in front of me. I want a title eliminator, and then I want to fight for a world title.”

Malik Hawkins

“He was doing a bunch of dirty things in the fight. I’m not going to sit here and cry over spilled milk. He was the better man tonight. I’m back in the gym.”

Khabib Nurmagomedov proved once again his dominance by submitting top-ranked contender Justin Gaethje in round two to retain his UFC Lightweight title in Abu Dhabi.

After a fast-paced 1st round, Nurmagomedov scored a takedown and applied a triangle choke that made Gaethje tap at 1:34 of round two.

Nurmagomedov, 155 lbs of Dagostan, RUS is 29-0 with 12 submission wins. Gaethje, 155 lbs of Denver, CO is 22-3.

After the fight, Khabib announced his retirement

Whittaker Decisions Cannonier

Former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker may have solidified another title shot with a unanimous decision over Jared Cannonier.

Whittaker sealed up the fight by landing a big shot that hurt and dropped Cannonier. Cannonier was adept with leg kicks, while Whittaker landed more strikes to the tune of 74-46 with one knockout.

Whittaker, 186 lbs of Sydney, AUS won by scores of 29-28 on all cards and is now 23-5. Cannonier, 185 lbs of Glendale, AZ is 13-5.

Volkoff stops Harris in 2

Alexander Volkoff stopped Walt Harris in the 2nd round of their heavyweight fight.

Volkoff landed a kick to the stomach the hurt Harris. Volkoff followed up with some hard punches on the injured Harris and the bout was stopped at 1:15.

Volkoff, 265 lbs of Moscow, RUS is 32-8 with 21 knockouts. Harris, 254 lbs of Birmingham, AL is 13-9-1.

Hawes Destroys Malkoun in 18 Seconds

Phil Hawes destroyed Jacob Malkoun in 18 seconds of their middleweight bout.

Hawes landed a huge right that rocked and hurt Malkoun. Hawes landed three more punches as Malkoun fell to the canvas, and the fight was stopped as Hawes landed another shot on the ground.

Hawes, 186 lbs of North Bergen, NJ is 9-2 with seven knockouts. Malkoun, 186 lbs of Sydney, AUS is 4-1.

Murphy submits Shakirova in 2

Lauren Murphy chokes out Liliyan Shakirova in round two of their flyweight bout.

Murphy got a takedown in round two, and moments later got the back of Shakirova and applied a rear-naked choke that made Shakirova tap at 3:31.

Murphy, 126 lbs of Houston, TX 14-4 with her 1st submission. Shakirova, 126 lbs of Uzbekistan is 8-2.

Ankalaev stops Cutelaba in 1st in Rematch

Magomed Ankalaev knocked out Ion Cutelaba in the opening round of their light heavyweight bout.

Ankalaev knocked Cutelaba down with a huge left. Ankalaev landed nine flush Ground and Pound Strikes and the bout was called at 4:19.

Ankalaev, 205.5 lbs of Russia is 14-1 with nine knockouts, Cutelaba, 205.5 lbs of Moldova is 15-6-1.

Belmar Preciado knocked out Roldolfo Hernandez in 19 seconds of their 10-round super bantamweight fight at the Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida.

Preciado landed a left hook to the body that sent Hernandez down for the 10-count.

Preciado, 122 lbs of Barranquilla, COL is 21-3-1 with 14 knockouts. Hernandez, 122 lbs is 30-10-1.

Otar Eranosyan stopped Emilano Martin Garcia in the 4th and final round of their lightweight bout.

In round two, Eranosyan dropped Garcia.

In round three, it was a right hand that put Garcia down for a 2nd time. In round four, Eranosyan scored a 3rd knockdown. The bout was finally stopped after Garcia ate another hard flurry at 1:34 of round four.

Eranosyan, 132 lbs is 3-0 with two knockouts. Garcia, 134 lbs is 16-6-1.

Bryan Polaco needed just 44 seconds to take out an overmatched Ryan Favela in a scheduled four-round super welterweight bout,

Polaco landed a hard 1-2 on Favela, who looked like he had very little experience in the ring.

Polaco, 154 lbs is 4-0 with with three knockouts. Favela, 154 lbs was making his pro debut,

Juan Francisco Estrada retained the WBC Super Flyweight title with an 11th round stoppage over Carlos Cuadras in a sensational fight that took place in Mexico City, Mexico.

The fight was a rematch of a contest that saw Estrada win a unanimous decision over Cuadras in 2017.

In round three, Cuadras landed a huge left hook that put Estrada down.

In round 10, Cuadras started to bleed over his right eye. In round 11, Estrada dropped Cuadras with a left hook. Later in the round, Cuadras was absorbing massive body shots, and then hit the deck from another flurry of punches. The two continued to bomb away at close quarters until the referee determined that Cuadras took too many blows at 2:22.

Estrada, 114.5 lbs of Sonora, MX will now most likely rematch Roman Gonzalez as his record is now 41-3 with 28 knockouts. Cuadras, 114.5 lbs of Sinaloa, MX is 39-4-1.

Chocolatito Decisions Israel Gonzalez; Retains Super Flyweight Title

Roman Gonzalez defended the WBA Super Flyweight title by pounding out a 12-round unanimous decision over Israel Gonzalez.

Roman Gonzalez was dominant as he got going in the 3rd round and never let up as he Israel had no answers to the volume punching of Chocolatito.

Roman Gonzalez, 114 lbs of Managua, NIC won by scores of 118-110, 116-112 and 117-111 to raise his Hall of Fame mark to 50-2. Israel Gonzalez, 114 lbs of Los Cabos, MEX is 25-4.

Martinez stops Calleros in 2 To Retain Flyweight Title

Julio Cesar Martinez retained the WBC Flyweight title with a 2nd round beatdown of Moises Calleros.

In round one, Martinez dropped Calleros with a left hook. In round two, Martinez landed a barrage of punches that included several crushing shots to the jaw, and Calleros was stopped on the ropes at 2:42.

Martinez, 111 lbs of Mexico City is 17-1-1 with 13 knockouts. Calleros, who was a late replacement came in over the 112 lbs weight-limit at 117.4 lbs, and the Monterrey, Mexico native is 34-10-1.

Diego Pacheco remained undefeated by knocking out Juan Antonio Mendez in round two of a scheduled six-round super middleweight.

In round two, Pacheco dropped Mendez with a sweet uppercut and the fight was stopped immediately at 2:02,

Pacheco, 167.2 lbs of Los Angeles, CA is 10-0 with eight knockouts. Mendez, 164.9 lbs of Mexico City is 12-3-2.

Austin Williams stopped Esau Herrera in round five of a scheduled six-round middleweight bout.

Williams was in tough until he landed a hard left that rocked Herrera, and the fight was stopped at 1:36.

Williams, 160 lbs of Houston is now 6-0 with five knockouts. Herrera, 157.6 lbs of Mexico City is 19-12-1.

Otha Jones III and Kevin Montiel fought to a six-round split-draw in a super featherweight contest featuring undefeated fighters.

Scores were 58-56 each way an 57-57.

Jones, 130 lbs of Toledo, OH is 5-0-1. Montiel, 130 lbs of Mexico is 6-0-1.

Fabio Turchi won a 10-round unanimous decision over Nikolajs Grisunins in a cruiserweight bout at Allianz Cloud in Milan, Italy.

Turchi, 199 1/2 lbs of Italy won by scores of 99-91, 98-92 and 100-90 and is now 18-1. Grisunins, 199 lbs is 12-2-1.

Dario Morello won a eight-round unanimous decision over Nestor Maradiago in a welterweight bout.

Morello, 149 lbs is 16-1. Maradiago, 146 1/2 lbs is 8-9-1.

Francesco Grandelli won a unanimous decision over Cristian Narvaez in a six-round featherweight bout.

Grandelli, 130 lbs is 14-1-1. Narvaez, 135 1/2 lbs is 16-23-5.

Ivan Zucco beat up Pavel Zgurean over three-rounds and the bout was stopped at the beginning of round four of their scheduled six-round super middleweight bout.

Zucco, 171 lbs of Italy is 12-0 with 10 knockouts. Zgurean, 170 lbs is 7-5.

Mirko Natalizi remained undefeated with a stoppage at the beginning of round four over Frane Radnic in a super welterweight bout.

In round one, Natalizi dropped Radnic with a straight right hand. In round two, Natalizi sent Radnic down for a 2nd time. In round three, Natalizi dropped Radnice with a right hand. The fight was stopped at the beginning of round four.

Natalizi, 159 lbs is 8-0 with five knockouts. Radnic, 164 1/2 lbs is 11-19.

Teofimo Lopez won the undisputed Lightweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Vasiliy Lomachenko at the MGM Grand Conference Center in Las Vegas.

Lopez dominated the first seven rounds as he boxed well and kept Lomachenko from the outside. Lopez featured some solid body work and landed some quick combinations that forced Lomachenko to do next to nothing.

Lomachenko came alive in the middle to late rounds and landed some quick shots that edged him closer in the fight. Lopez bit down and had a big final frame that solidified the victory by scores of 119-109, 117-111 and 116–112/

Lopez landed 183 of 659 punches. Lomachenko was 141 of 329.

Lopez is now 16-0. Lomachenko is 14-2.

Said Lopez, “I had to dig deep, man. I’m thankful. I’m grateful. And each and every day, I take that in. I thank God first because I couldn’t do it without him.
 
“I’m a fighter. I gotta dig in deep. I knew he was coming. I didn’t know if they had him up on the scorecards or not, and I love to fight. I can bang, too. I don’t care, man. I’ll take one to give one. That’s what a true champion does. I find a way to win.
 
“You just gotta keep pressuring him, press the gas, stick the jab and don’t really give him that opportunity to set up. Every time he did want to throw, I had something ready for him.”

Barboza Decisions Saucedo

Arnold Barboza Jr. scored the biggest win of his career as he remained undefeated by winning a 10-round unanimous decision over former world title challenger Alex Saucedo in a junior welterweight bout.

In round one, Saucedo began to bleed from the nose that was caused by a headbutt.

In round seven, Barboza slipped, but it was correctly ruled a knockdown when officials went to the instant replay.

That was the only blip for Barboza, as he won by scores of 97-92 twice and 96-93.

Barboza landed 218 of 941 punches. Saucedo was 183 of 691.

Barboza, 140 lbs of South El Monte, CA is 25-0. Saucedo, 140 lbs of Oklahoma City is 30-2.

Barboza said, “This was like a championship fight to me. It’s all because of my father {head trainer Arnold Barboza Sr.}, not me. I did this for kids and my father. My dream is to get a house for my kids. I came that much closer today.
 
“I want a championship fight. No more messing around. No more tune-up fights.”

Berlanga stops Bellows in 1st; Keeps KO streak alive

Edgar Berlanga made it 15-for-15 in opening round stoppage as he took out Lanell Bellows in their scheduled eight-round super middleweight bout.

Berlanga cut Bellows with a hard left hook. Bellows was hurt, and Berlanga smelled blood and landed some more heavy shots and the fight was stopped in 79 seconds.

Berlanga, 169 lbs of Brooklyn is 15-0 with all 15 knockouts in the 1st round. Bellows, 169 lbs of Las Vegas is 20-6-3.

Berlanga said, “I saw with the first shot that I cut him open and the look in his eyes, he didn’t want to be in there. From the beginning, once I got in the ring, I looked in his eyes… he didn’t want to be in there. So I had to get him out.”

Vargas Decisions Casteneda

Josue Vargas won a 10-round unanimous decision over Kendo Casteneda in a junior welterweight bout.

In round two, Vargas dropped Casteneda with a straight left. Later in round three, Castenda began to bleed from his nose.

In round six, Casteneda started bleeding from his mouth.

Vargas outlanded Casteneda 226-112

Vargas, 142 lbs of Bronx, NY won by scores 100-89, 99-90 and 98-91 to raise his mark to 18-1. Casteneda, 142 lbs of San Antonio, TX is 17-3.

Vargas said,“He was a tough customer, tougher than I thought he was going to be, but my father told me to stay composed, stay calm. I dropped him, but that doesn’t mean nothing, just stay relaxed because that’s how I got disqualified when I was 18 years old.
 
“I’m very close to fighting these guys, like Zepeda, Pedraza, any of these guys. You name it, I’ll get in there with them.”

Enrique Vivas stopped John Vincent Moralde in a scheduled eight-round featherweight bout.

In the opening seconds, Vivas dropped Moralde with a body shot. Vivas then landed a huge right that drove Moralde back to the ropes. Two hard body shots later sent Mralde down and the fight was stopped at 1:16.

Vivas, 128 lbs of Motebello, CA is 20-1 with 11 knockouts. Moralde, 127 lbs of the Philippines is 23-4.

Quinton Randall won a six-round unanimous decision over Jan Carlos Rivera in a fight featuring undefeated welterweights.

Randall, 147 lbs of Houston, TX won by scores of 59-55 and 58-56 twice and is now 7-0. Vivas, 146 lbs of Puerto Rico is 4-1.

In a battle of undefeated welterweights, 17 year-old Jahi Tucker won a four-round unanimous decision over Charles Garner.

In round two, Garner started bleeding from the nose.

Tucker, 145 lbs of Deer Park, NY won by scores of 40-36 on all cards, and is now 2-0. Garner, 142 lbs of Buffalo, NY is 1-1.

Lewis Ritson won a dubious 12-round unanimous decision over former world champion Miguel Vazquez in a junior welterweight bout in Peterborough, England/

Vazquez landed 193 of 1001 punches. Ritson was 141 of 544.

Ritosn, 139.3 lbs of Forest Hall won by scores of 117-111, 115-113 and Vazquez won a card 116-113 to go to 21-1. Vazquez, 139.3 lbs of Mexico is 42-10.

“It just depends what you like doesn’t it,” Ritson told Matchroom afterwards. “He was tapping me and running away. I was hitting him with the cleaner jabs. It was very frustrating being out the gym a year and then facing that style.

It was probably more awkward than I thought it was going to be. The more the fight went on the more frustrated I got. It was a big eye opener. We’ve been mentioning the Prograis fight, tonight was a bit of an eye opener that we’re a million miles off that fight.

“We need a couple more fights like Vazquez, maybe not his style. That’s what you get when you step up. We had a hard job doing it. I’m improving as a fighter but I’ve got a lot more improving to do.”

Leach Decisions Ashfaq

Marc Leach won a 10-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Qais Ashfaq in a super bantamweight fight.

In round four, Leach dropped Ashfaq with a hard right off the clinch.

In round seven, Ashfaq was dropped with counter left that was followed by a left inside.

Leach, 121 lbs of Salford won by scores of 96-92, 95-92 and 95-93 and is now 15-1-1. Asfaq, 121.7 lbs is 9-1.

“I’m feeling over the moon,” Leach told Matchroom afterwards. “I’ve said before in previous interviews, the underdog tag means I’ve got nothing to lose and lots to gain. I felt good in there. Mine, Jamie’s and Nigel’s tactics worked to a T. Happy days.

“I felt like I had had him in trouble. Nigel and Jamie know that I’ve got power behind me. We moved up a weight as well. I presume he didn’t know I had that power. I believe in myself and it worked. Even at my weight, Bantamweight, I’m supposed to be next in line for the British Title. Whichever one comes first, I’ll happily take.

“Hopefully after one or two more fights at this level I won’t have to work anymore. This is the life I have chosen. I work nights, six until two. It’s not ideal but I’ve got kids to feed and a family to look after. Hopefully this turns into more opportunities for me.

In a battle of undefeated super lightweights, Rylan Charlton stopped Joe Laws in round three of scheduled six-round super lightweight.

In round one, Charlton dropped Laws with a left hook to the chin. In round three, it was another left hook that sent Laws down again. Carlton finished Laws off with a combination that sent Laws down for the 10-count at 1:39.

Charlton, 144.4 lbs of Norwich is 6-0-1 with three knockouts. Laws, 146.9 lbs of Benwell is 9-1.

“It’s what I expected,” said Charlton afterwards. “I’ve been training my ass off for this. No disrespect to Joe, I think he’s a great guy, a great boxer, but he’s a ticket seller. He sells loads of tickets to get into the positions that he gets in. He’s a good fighter and he’s a very nice guy. I have been training my ass off. I can’t really sell that many tickets. I’m the fighter. I’m just pleased I got the opportunity to showcase my skills. 

“I felt like it got a little bit scrappy at some point. I was trying to stay as composed as possible. I saw the opening and I stuck it up there. That’s all she wrote. I always knew that this would be the result. I trained too hard for it not to be the result. My power was too much.

“Pint Size Powerhouse all the way! He’s got a massive following and this won’t be the end of Joe. He’ll be back. This has just rocketed my career in the right direction. Eddie get this contract, and let’s go! Get me out before Christmas.”

Thomas Patrick Ward and Thomas Essomba fought to split technical draw in a super bantamweight fight.

In round seven, Ward was cut over the left eye from a hard head clash The got was bad with the eyelid split open and the fight was called after eight.

Essomba won a card 88-85; Ward won a card 88-84 and a 3rd card was even at 86-86.

Ward, 123.3 lbs of West Rainton is 29-0-1. Essomba, 123.2 lbs is 10-6-1.

“To be honest, the fight was close, but I knew I was better than him,” Essomba said afterwards. “We had the accident, and then the judges decided the outcome, I have to respect their decision. I didn’t see the head clash. I don’t know who’s fault it was.

“I’ve had a really long and good camp since my last fight against Sunny Edwards. If I would have had two or three more weeks’ notice then I could have prepared more for Tommy. I had six days’ notice. I know if we fight again the fight will be totally different. I will give him a rematch, any time and anywhere.”

Kane Baker won a six-round decision over previously undefeated Meshech Speare in a super lightweight bout.

In round two, Baker was cut around the left eye.

Baker, 138 lbs of Birmingham won by a 5-56 score and is now 14-7. Speare, 138 lbs of Liverpool is 5-1.

“I’m floating,” said Baker afterwards. “It’s amazing. I’ve been here a few times. That winning feeling is something else. When I fought Fiaz two weeks ago my corner was quite confident in how I was doing. Tonight, they were telling me I was losing every round! I did think I’d won, but you just don’t know.

“When I heard Birmingham first, I knew then and it was amazing. He caught me twice to be fair. He caught me with two good shots. He’ll be back again, he’s a strong kid. I hope it was a good fight for the fans. It was a lot tougher this time than it was two weeks ago. The two weeks off didn’t recharge me as much as I’d have liked. It was tough but I was never going to say no to being here. I bit down on the gumshield and toughed it out.”

Ellie Scotney made a successful pro debut with a six-round decision over Bec Connolly in a super bantamweight bout.

In round three, Scotney put Connolly on the canvas from a right hand that was followed by a perfect left hook to the head.

In round five, Connolly started to bleed around the right eye.

Scotney, 125.9 lbs of Catford won by a score of and is now 1-0. Connolly, 125.2 lbs is 3-8.

“Bec is a tough person and she came to fight,” Scotney told Matchroom afterwards. “It was brilliant to share a ring with her. She gave it her all. She’s a nice woman. I feel like I’ve got a lot to work on still. I’m 22 and boxing at the weight above, so now I’ll be going down to the weight I should be at and I’m so looking forward to getting out again.

“I rushed it a little bit. I got a bit carried away when I landed a shot. I’ve got a lot to work on. I’m buzzing to get the first one out of the way. It’s been a long time coming. I’m going to get back in the gym on Monday if Adam lets me. I love boxing.”

Antonio Moran stopped Emanuel Colon in round six of their scheduled 10-round super lightweight bout at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida.

In round six, Moran landed a hard barrage of punched the hurt Colon. That barrage was finished up with a big right hand that sent Colon to the canvas, and the fight was stopped when Colon got to his feet and wobbled at

Moran, 139 lbs is 26-4-1 with 19 knockouts. Colon, 140 lbs is 17-2-1.

Xander Zayas remained undefeated with a 1st round stoppage over Anthony Curtiss in a welterweight fight.

Zayas overwhelmed Curtiss with a speed and hard power shots, and the fight was stopped with Curtiss on his feet.

Zayas, 146 3/4 lbs is 6-0 with five knockouts. Curtis, 145 1/4 lbs is 2-5.

Aaron Aponte made a successful pro debut with a 1st round stoppage over Jonathan Conde in a welterweight bout.

Aponte floored Conde with an uppercut for the 10-count.

Aponte, 141 1/4 lbs is 1-0 with one knockout. Conde 140 lbs is 2-5.

Rafayel Simonyan stopped Eric Abraham in the 6th and final round of their cruiserweight bout.

In round six, Simonyan dropped Abraham three times and the bout was stopped.

Simonyan, 182 lbs is 8-0 with seven knockouts. Abraham, 187 lbs is 6-7.