LOS ANGELES (March 21, 2024) – Toronto’s undefeated World Boxing Association (WBA) Intercontinental Light Heavyweight Champion Kareem “Supreme” Hackett (12-0, 6 KOs) will make his first title defense March 30^th against Rowdy Legend Montgomery (10-5-1, 7 KOs) in a 10-pound match on a Golden Boy Promotions card headlined by the WBA Cruiserweight World title fight between defending champion Arsen Goulimarian and Hackett’s stablemate, former world super middleweight champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez.

All the action will be streamed live on DAZN from YouTube Theater in Los Angeles.

WBA No. 13 world-rated Hackett captured his crown last September 20^th in Plant City, Florida, when he dominated 4-1 favorite and previously undefeated Clay Waterman (11-0, 8 KOs) en route to a 10-round unanimous decision, in which he won all 10 rounds on two of the judges’’ scorecards and nine on the other judge’s.

“I would have liked to fight sooner but that’s the way this business goes,” Hackett said. “It’s harder to get fights after winning my title than it was. A lot of good has happened since my last fight. I understand. I have a title and I’m world ranked. I have a clearer path towards a world title shot. I appreciate any opportunity to get in the ring.

?“I’m getting more respect since I displayed my skills on ProBox.TV. (Announcers) Juan Manual Marguez, Paulie Malignaggi and Chris Algieri gave me a lot of props and that’s been very validating.”  

Hackett has gained invaluable experience sparring world champions such as “Zurdo” Ramirez, Dmitry Bivol, Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin, Sergio Mora, Mathew Macklin and David Benavidez.

Hackett has already established firsts by a Toronto boxer in terms of fighting on a Golden Boy Promotions card and becoming WBA Inter-Continental Light Heavyweight title holder.

“I’m a trailblazer for Toronto boxing,” promotional free agent Hackett explained with great pride. “I want to bring the first world title home, for sure, and one day the undisputed and unified titles, too, Toronto is a big city with a lot of natural talent, but I don’t know why boxing hasn’t thrived there.”

Hackett is trained by fast-rising Julian Chua at Brickhouse Boxing Club in North Hollywood (CA) and managed by 3 Point Management (3 PM).

“(Dmitry) Bivol is at the head of the light heavyweight division, and I know he’s a strong guy,” Hackett noted. “We’ve changed some things since my last fight with the end in mind. We’ve tripled down, strength-wise, for when we run into him. That’s the main change. I feel that I’m the most agile fighter in our division and I’m working on getting stronger to match my skills and ring IQ.”

In 2024, Hackett wants to add hardware and fight a top-10 ranked opponent but, at least for now, he’s happy to be in his fight with Montgomery in his second home, Los Angeles.

“I love that this fight is in LA,” Hackett concluded. “I’m comfortable in Los Angeles. I feel at home here and fighting in other places in California. I’m also excited to be fighting on a card headlined by one of my closest friends in boxing (Zurdo).”

INFORMATION:

Website: www.KareemHackett.com

Instagram, Twitter & Tik Tok: @kareemwins

.

PHILADELPHIA, PA (March 21, 2024) On Thursday, April 18, DiBella Entertainment’s acclaimed Broadway Boxing will make its debut in Philadelphia, PA, at the 2300 Arena. The 121st edition of the longest-running grassroots boxing series will be headlined by heavyweight contender “Gentleman” George Arias squaring off against the undefeated Skylar Lacy.

Tickets for Broadway Boxing are on sale now and can be purchased via www.2300arena.com (click HERE) or by calling (267) 273-0945. Tickets are priced at $150.00 for VIP Ringside, $125.00 Premium Ringside, $100 Ringside, $60 for General Admission seating and $45 for Standing Room Only. The 2300 Arena is located at 2300 S Swanson Street, Philadelphia, PA 19148. Doors will open on the night of the event at 6:00 PM ET, with the first bout scheduled for 7:30 PM ET.

“I’ve wanted to bring Broadway Boxing to Philadelphia for a long time and I’m thrilled to debut the series at the 2300 Arena, where I know we will have a raucous, passionate crowd,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “The heavyweight division remains in flux and is ripe with opportunities to break through. This card will feature two exciting and meaningful heavyweight clashes with contender George Arias making his ring return against an undefeated Skylar Lacy and rising undefeated prospect Roney Hines taking on his toughest assignment in the crafty and experienced Robert Hall Jr. Also, several popular Philadelphia prospects will populate the card, including the hard-hitting, superbly talented Tahmir Smalls as well as Erron Peterson and Romuel Cruz, both undefeated and under the guidance of boxing sage Breadman Edwards. Kestna Davis, a fighter advised by Lennox Lewis, and unbeaten female featherweight contender Tiara Brown will also compete.”

Dominican George Arias (18-1, 7 KOs), a New York Golden Gloves champion based out of The Bronx, NY, will face his ninth undefeated adversary when he meets Skylar Lacy (8-0-1, 6 KOs), of Indianapolis, IN, in the eight-round main event. Arias is coming off of a spirited battle against top-rated Jared Anderson last year. The six-foot-tall Arias will be giving up a significant height advantage to Lacy at six-foot-seven, though, he has shown he is very capable of dismantling a much taller foe. In December 2021, Arias upset the previously undefeated six-foot-six Cassius Chaney on points, outboxing him with fast hands and deft footwork. Lacy is coming off of a second-round stoppage victory against Hector Coronado on March 16 in Mexico.

“I am excited to get back in the ring. I’ve always believed that, as a fighter, one should be able to take risk and dare to be great. My last performance against Jared Anderson was exactly what I needed to understand that more is required of me,” said Arias. “I have been working tirelessly in the gym to perfect my flaws and my style. I am very thankful to my promoter, Lou DiBella, for believing in me and allowing me to develop. I can’t wait to begin a new chapter as a more mature and disciplined fighter on his way to becoming the first Dominican heavyweight champion of the world.”

The card will also feature a high-powered heavyweight clash between Cleveland’s Roney Hines and Johnson City, TN, native Robert Hall Jr., scheduled for eight rounds. The fight is a step-up for Hines (13-0-1, 8 KOs), who trains with veteran trainer Eric Brown in Los Angeles and is co-managed by Robert Diaz and Sheer Sports. He is coming off of a unanimous decision win against Jonathan Gruber last November. The 28-year-old Hines had an extensive amateur career that included over 90 fights and a win at the National Golden Gloves, before making his professional debut in July 2018. Hall Jr. (14-2, 11 KOs), a former WBC USNBC titlist, last entered the ring in September, when he faced contender Jerry Forrest, losing a unanimous decision over eight rounds.

“I’m going to show out,” said Hines of the contest. “I’m not worried about who’s in front of me. They have to deal with me. I was born to fight. You get up and brush your teeth, I get up and box. I just want to be the best.”

Undefeated 24-year-old Philadelphia welterweight Tahmir Smalls (11-0, 8 KOs) will take on Ezequiel Victor Fernandez (29-7-1, 3 KO’s), of San Juan, Argentina, in an eight-round bout. Smalls is a familiar face at the 2300 Arena, having previously fought there five times. With his father, Lawrence Smalls, as his trainer and a former amateur boxer himself, Tahmir has been around the sweet science all of his life and began competing at the age of eight. After winning the Pennsylvania Golden Gloves tournament, Smalls turned pro in September 2019. He trains out of Philly’s Next Champ boxing gym, also known as Bozy’s Dungeon, where Derrick “Bozy” Ennis trains his son, IBF welterweight world champion Jaron “Boots” Ennis.

Two unbeaten prospects trained by Stephen “Breadman” Edwards out of James Shuler Memorial Gym in West Philadelphia will appear on the undercard in separate bouts. Six-foot-tall middleweight southpaw Erron “JYD” Peterson (5-0-1, 4 KOs) was an All-City linebacker in high school before turning his full attention to boxing at the age of 21. Following a brief-but-successful amateur campaign, Peterson, managed by his father Salah, turned pro in July 2022. Junior featherweight Romuel “Cuco” Cruz (10-0-1, 4 KOs), promoted by Hard Hitting Promotions, was born in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, but moved to Philadelphia, PA, as a toddler. He began boxing as a teenager and has been under Edwards’ tutelage since his pro debut in December 2017.

Jamaican super welterweight southpaw Kestna “Hardball” Davis (5-0), based out of Vauxhall, NJ, will box in a four-round bout. He is advised by former undisputed heavyweight world champion Lennox Lewis. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Davis moved to the U.S. in 2018. Davis has been mentored by the former world champion since they met in July 2016 through the Lennox Lewis League of Champions Foundation.

“I’m looking forward to seeing Kestna in the ring. He’s been training hard after a while out, so it will be good to see how the work is paying off,” said Lewis.

Featherweight contender Tiara Brown (16-0, 11 KOs), of Lehigh Acres, FL, will compete in a six-round contest. Before moving back to Florida, where she was raised, to fully focus on her boxing career, Brown had been a police officer in Washington D.C., for nearly six years. She was once honored as the Police Officer of the Year by the Metropolitan Police Department of D.C. Brown will be fighting in the U.S. for the first time since 2019. She is coming off of a first-round stoppage victory against Angi Romero on February 17 in Colombia.

Additional information on the event will be announced shortly.

DiBella Entertainment

Instagram: @DiBellaEnt

Twitter: @LouDiBella, @DiBellaEnt

Facebook: @DiBellaEntertainment

RZESZOW, POLAND (March 21, 2024) – Lawrence Okolie will challenge Lukasz Rozanski for the WBC World Bridgerweight Championship on Friday, May 24th at the Podpromie Arena in Rzeszow, Poland, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland.

The former British, Commonwealth, European and WBO World Cruiserweight king makes his long awaited return to the ring as he bids to become a two-weight world ruler by taking on the undefeated Rozanski in the champion’s backyard.

Rozanski, who boasts a frightening knockout ratio with fourteen of his fifteen victories coming inside the distance, will be bringing big-time boxing back to Rzeszow having claimed the WBC Bridgerweight belt with a ferocious first-round stoppage win over the previously unbeaten Alen Babic in front of his home fans in April last year.

Okolie, the 31-year-old from Hackney, who represented Team GB at the 2016 Rio Olympics, first captured world honours in March 2021 with a knockout win over Rozanski’s countryman Krzysztof Glowacki.

‘The Sauce’ moves up in weight for his first professional bout above the 200lbs limit following a majority decision loss against former stablemate Chris Billam-Smith in an epic world title showdown in May 2023 at the Vitality Stadium in Bournemouth.

Lawrence Okolie said: “I’m excited to go to Poland and test myself yet again on away ground. Rozanski is a good champion, with an explosive style, but I’m coming to do some serious damage. He has never seen power like mine.”

Lukasz Rozanski said: “I’m defending my World Title in my own backyard, in my city, fighting against a former World Champion. It’s a fantastic fight, for moments like these, I’ve trained hard all my life.”

The WBC Bridgerweight World Title fight between Lukasz Rozanski and Lawrence Okolie will be the second event co-promoted by BOXXER and Knockout Promotions following a successful collaboration in April 2023.

BOXXER CEO and Founder Ben Shalom said: “We’re excited to be returning to Poland and working once again with our friends at Knockout Promotions for what promises to be another spectacular night of boxing. I was ringside to watch Rozanki beat Babic inside a round to claim the WBC Bridgerweight World Title so I know Lawrence will need to be at his best to bring the belt back to the UK. I believe at this heavier weight we will see the best and most destructive version of Lawrence Okolie.”

Andrew Wasilewski for Knockout Promotions said:  “I’m delighted that Knockout Promotions will be organizing another gala in cooperation with our English colleagues from BOXXER. We had hoped that last year’s gala would be the beginning of further collaboration, and it is happening. We are thrilled and can’t wait.”

This event is presented in association with official partner Integritas Property Group.

ALL THE WEIGHTS and photos from the weigh-in ahead of Chris Bourke vs Ashley Lane on Friday night at York Hall, Bethnal Green, live on TNT Sports:

The vacant British and Commonwealth Bantamweight Championships, 12×3 Minute Rounds
Chris Bourke – 117lbs 4oz
Ashley Lane – 117lbs 14oz

The WBC International Light-Heavyweight Championship, 10×3 Minute Rounds
Willy Hutchinson – 174lbs 10oz
Martin Houben – 173lbs 5oz

8×3 Minute Heavyweight Contest
Moses Itauma – 241lbs 30z
Dan Garber – 262lbs 10oz

8×3 Minute International Super-Featherweight Contest
Royston Barney-Smith – 132lbs 12oz
Jose Manuel Perez – 131lbs 5oz

6×3 Minute International Welterweight Contest
Sean Noakes – 151lbs 13oz
Marian Wesolowski – 149lbs 10oz

6×3 Minute International Super-Welterweight Contest
Sonny Liston-Ali – 152lbs 6oz
Petar Aleksandrov – 153lbs 15oz

6×3 Minute International Super-Lightweight Contest
Luke McCormack – 144lbs 12oz
Robin Zamora -145lbs

4×3 Minute International Cruiserweight Contest
Iman Zamatkesh – 202lbs 14oz
Pawel Stykkowski – 201lbs 7oz

CHATTANOOGA, TN (March 21, 2024) – Undefeated welterweight Avious “Tha Underdog” Griffin, hailing from the vibrant city of Chattanooga, Tennessee, is gearing up for the most significant bout of his career as he steps into the ring under the expert guidance of Brian ‘BoMac’ McIntyre, Ring Magazine’s 2023 Trainer of the Year.

The event, promoted by OTX (Overtime Boxing), whose motto is “About That ACTION,” will be broadcast live internationally on DAZN. The 8-round bout is scheduled for April 19, 2024, at the prestigious OTE Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. OTX promises an evening filled with great matchups and nonstop action.

Griffin, with an unblemished record of (13-0, 12 KOs), is about to face his first undefeated fighter to date in his televised debut. His adversary is the unbeaten slugger from Colombia, Jose Vargas Quintana (9-0, 7 KOs), who poses a daunting challenge that Griffin must overcome in the ring. This by far is the most dangerous opponent Griffin will be facing.

Fresh off his arrival in Omaha, Nebraska, where he’s putting the finishing touches on his training camp alongside the legendary “BoMac”, Griffin shares his thoughts on what promises to be his most thrilling bout yet as a professional boxer.

“Making my debut on DAZN is a fighter’s dream come true, but for me it’s just another fight. I been fighting my whole life, now more people get to witness it” said Griffin, who goes by the nickname “Tha Underdog” after dealing with immense adversity having been falsely incarcerated. “It’s an honor to showcase my talent to the world, especially on an international platform with my new coach “Bo Mac” by my side. I can’t wait to give fans an unforgettable performance. I’m grateful for the opportunity Overtime and DAZN are giving me.”

“Avious is a special fighter, he has it all…skill, boxing IQ, speed, athleticism, charisma, and devastating power. I have no doubt he will rise to the occasion,” manager Brandon Stump, President of CTB Athletics, stated on Griffin’s upcoming fight. “This fight against Quintana is the step up in competition you can surely expect to see moving forward and with BoMac in his corner, I believe we’re on the cusp of witnessing something truly special for many years to come.”

It’s finally time to secure your tickets to see Olympic Gold Medallist Lauren Price MBE challenge Jessica McCaskill for the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Titles on Saturday, May 11th at the Utilita Arena in Cardiff.

Over 50% of all tickets were sold in pre-sale yesterday proving this is certainly an eagerly anticipated fight night and homecoming for Wales’s own Lauren Price.

Tickets are available via the link below from 10am today (Thurs 21st March) and you can join the queue now to be amongst the first in line.
CLICK HERE TO SECURE TICKETS
Ticket prices: £200 / £125 / £80 / £60 / £40

McCaskill vs Price will top an action-packed fight card in Cardiff with undercard fights to be announced very soon.

We’re expecting tickets for this event to be in high demand so we recommend you register and buy your tickets as soon as they become available.

NEW YORK (March 20, 2024) — PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, returns to the ring when it live streams to boxing fans, in the U.S. and Canada, an action-packed  four-bout card, featuring the 12-round junior middleweight world title tilt between undefeated WBO junior middleweight world champion Tim Tszyu (24-0, 17 KOs), a native of Sydney, Australia, and No. 3 world-rated contender Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora (20-1-1, 13 KOs), from Coachella, California, Saturday, March 30, beginning at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT.  The co-main event will have WBA super lightweight world champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero (15-1, 13 KOs), from Las Vegas, making his first title defense, against Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz (25-2-1, 17 KOs), from Mexico City. The Tszyu – Fundora / Rolly – Pitbull championship event will emanate live from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.  Priced at $69.99, it can be ordered by clicking here PPV.COM | Tszyu vs. Fundora.   

The PPV.COM Tszyu – Fundora world championship event live stream will once again feature Hall of Fame broadcaster Jim Lampley, who will be paired with award-winning journalist Lance Pugmire, co-hosting an exclusive viewer chat in real time.  Jim and Lance will be joined in the chat by “Inside Boxing Live” podcast hosts Dan Canobbio and Chris Algieri.  Jim, Lance, Dan, and Chris will also be providing exclusive fight week commentary and reports from Las Vegas for PPV.COM‘s website and social platforms.

Canobbioand Algieri will be bringing their popular Inside Boxing Livepodcast to PPV.COM, where they will produce two fresh episodes weekly, provide onsite coverage during major pay-per-view fight weeks, host their own weekly live chat every Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET, and join fight night live viewer chats.  For the latest episodes of Inside Boxing Live presented by PPV.COM, click hereInside Boxing Live – YouTube.

“Obviously the near-last minute switch from Keith Thurman to Sebastian Fundora renders some of the style specifics of Tim Tszyu’s preparation null or inappropriate,” said Lampley.  “Fundora is physically different, stylistically different, generationally different and competitively different than Keith Thurman.  So now it’s a new fight for Tszyu with a week and a half to adjust.  He’s still a heavy favorite, and he’ll have to accept that he gets less credit for the win in what may well be a tougher fight.  But that’s boxing.  Some memorable upsets have emerged from circumstances like this, but they are memorable because they are so rare.  There’s no logical reason yet to see this as less than perfunctory for Tim Tszyu.”       

PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, will offer Tszyu vs. Fundora in the U.S. and Canada.  iNDEMAND, the parent company of PPV.COM, will also be carrying the event through its network of cable and telco operators in the U.S. and Canada via providers including: Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Optimum, Fios, Rogers, Bell, SaskTel, and Telus, among others.

JIM LAMPLEY

Jim is a recipient of the Boxing Writers Association of America’s (BWAA) Sam Taub Award for Excellence in Broadcasting Journalism and was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in its 2015 class.  He served as anchor and commentator for “HBO World Championship Boxing” for 30 years and has covered numerous Olympic Games during his long and distinguished career in sports broadcasting.      

LANCE PUGMIRE

Lance is a recipient of the Nat Fleischer Award for Excellence in Boxing Journalism, the BWAA’s highest honor.  He brings over 30 years of experience covering the sweet science for the Los Angeles Times, The Athletic, and USA Today.  He currently serves as senior U.S. writer for BoxingScene.com.

About iNDEMAND and PPV.COM

iNDEMAND is an innovative partnership among three of the leading cable companies in the U.S.– Charter Communications, Comcast Cable, and Cox Communications. iNDEMAND is a company of trusted content aggregators and licensing experts, with unparalleled technical expertise and long-standing relationships with MVPDs, major sports leagues, Hollywood studios, and other entertainment and sports companies across North America. iNDEMAND delivers great content to more than 60 million cable homes and has distribution deals with more than 90 companies.  In December 2021, iNDEMAND launched PPV.COM, an innovative streaming PPV service and the first of its kind to offer interactive fan engagement during live-action sports.  With the addition of PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, to its existing cable PPV infrastructure, iNDEMAND has consolidated all forms of PPV distribution under one roof, making the company the only provider of turn-key PPV solutions for both industry partners and consumers.  For more information, go to indemand.com.

Top Rank Boxing on ESPN presented by AutoZone: Valdez vs. Wilson/Estrada vs. Valle will be presented live Friday, March 29, at approximately 11 p.m. ET/ 8 p.m. PT exclusively on ESPN+. The event takes place at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona.

In the 12-round junior lightweight main event, Mexican warrior Oscar Valdez will face Australian former world title challenger Liam Wilson.

Valdez (31-2, 23 KOs), the fighting pride of Nogales, represented Mexico at the 2008 and 2012 Olympics. As a pro, he won world titles in two weight classes. After a competitive fight against Olympic gold medalist Robson Conceição in 2021, Valdez suffered his first pro loss in a unification battle against Shakur Stevenson in 2022. He bounced back with a decision victory in a rematch against Adam Lopez in May 2023 before suffering a points loss against Emanuel Navarrete last August.

Wilson (13-2, 7 KOs) is a five-year pro who made his U.S. debut versus Navarrete for the vacant WBO junior lightweight title last February. Wilson dropped Navarrete and almost scored the upset in the fourth round before being stopped in the ninth. He rebounded with triumphs over Carlos Alanis last August and Jackson Jon England in December.

In the co-feature, WBC/WBA/Ring Magazine champion Seniesa “Super Bad” Estrada and WBO/IBF ruler Yokasta Valle will collide in a highly anticipated showdown to crown the first-ever undisputed minimumweight champion.

Estrada (25-0, 9 KOs) is a 13-year pro and two-weight world champion. She signed with Top Rank in 2022 and shut out Jazmin Gala Villarino in November of that year. In 2023, she picked up the WBC strap against the previously unbeaten Tina Rupprecht in March and retained her unified titles with a points verdict over Leonela Yudica in July.

Valle (30-2, 9 KOs) seized the vacant IBF atomweight world title by overcoming Ana Victoria Polo in 2016. After an unsuccessful bid for the WBO light flyweight title against Naoko Fujioka in 2017 and an interim title loss to Rupprecht in 2018, she snatched the IBF minimumweight world title from Joana Pastrana in 2019. Valle added the WBO title to her collection with a win over Thi Thu Nhi Nguyen in 2022 and has since defended her unified crown four times, including a decision over Anabel Ortiz in November.

Undercard action begins at 6:10 p.m. ET/ 3:10 p.m. PT.

Calling the action will be Hall of Famer, Timothy Bradley, Jr., Mark Kriegel, and Bernardo Osuna.

Original Program: Talk That Talk” Seniesa vs. Valle

Ahead of the blockbuster Top Rank event on March 29, ESPN will air the original program: Talk That Talk: Seniesa vs. Valle. Hosted by Crystina Poncher, the 30-minute all-access preview debuts ahead of one of the most heated world title bouts of the year. Fight fans will hear both athletes sound off in a verbal war ahead of the Undisputed Minimumweight Championship between undefeated WBA/WBC/Ring Magazine champion Seniesa Estrada (25-0, 9 KOs) and unified IBF/WBO queen Yokasta Valle (30-2, 9 KOs). A two-division world champion proudly representing East Los Angeles, Seniesa “Super Bad” Estrada is aiming to deliver the undisputed world title to her Mexican-American fans while Valle, the three-division world titlist from Costa Rica, is seeking to extend her winning streak to 18.

Talk That Talk: Seniesa vs. Valle (All Times ET)

Date
Network
Time
Sat., Mar 23
ESPN2
6:30 a.m.
Sun., Mar 24
ESPN2
6:00 a.m.
Mon., Mar 25

ESPN2
1:30 a.m.
Thu., Mar 28

ESPNEWS
12:00 a.m.
3:00 a.m.
Fri., Mar 29

ESPN2
2:00 a.m.
ESPNEWS
9:30 a.m.
*Also available for On-Demand Replay in the ESPN App

ESPN+: On Demand Shows, Archives & Premium Articles

Top Rank: Real Time – All-access with top fighters throughout fight week as they work their way to fight night.
Who Do U Fight 4? – Learn what drives the next generation of Top Rank stars.
State of Boxing – Post-show coverage of the biggest fights on ESPN and ESPN+.
Best of Boxing Spotlight – An archive of the all-time best Top Rank fights.
Follow @ESPNRingside: Facebook Instagram X (Twitter) TikTok

Valdez vs. Wilson(All Times ET)

Date
Time
Event
Fights
Title
Platform
Wed. Mar 27
4:00 p.m.

Main Card Press Conference

ESPN+

Thu. Mar 28
4:00 p.m.

Weigh-in

Fri. Mar 29
11:00 p.m.
(estimated time)

Main

Oscar Valdez vs. Liam Wilson

Co-Feature
Seniesa Estrada (C) vs. Yokasta Valle (C) (Undisputed) WBA/WBC, IBF/WBO Minimumweight
6:10 p.m.
Feature
Raymond Muratalla vs. Xolisani Ndongeni

Undercard
Lindolfo Delgado vs. Carlos Sanchez
Undercard
Richard Torrez Jr. vs. Don Haynesworth
Undercard
Sergio Rodriguez vs. Sanny Duversonne
Undercard
Emiliano Fernando Vargas vs. Nelson Hampton
Undercard
Alan Garcia vs. Gonzalo Fuenzalida
Undercard
Art Barrera Jr. vs. Keven Soto
Undercard
Ricardo Ruvalcaba vs. Avner Hernandez Molina

Sampson Boxing proudly announces the signing of streaking welterweight prospect Nicklaus “La Bestia” Flaz to a promotional contract.

Since suffering his second career defeat, a shock first-round knockout in October 2020, Flaz (12-2, 8 KOs), from Vega Alta, Puerto Rico, has gone on a tear, scoring three impressive upset victories; knocking out an established durable veteran and taking the undefeated 0 records from two promising up-and-comers along the way.

The 28-year-old Flaz started his remarkable winning streak by scoring a majority eight-round decision over then 13-0 Brian Ceballo in October 2022. Next came another eight-round majority decision over then 10-0 Jahi Tucker in July 2023.

But Flaz really got the boxing world talking last Wednesday (March 13) by becoming the first to knock out capable veteran Luke Santamaria in the co-main event of a globally streamed ProBoxTV event in Plant City, Florida.

Santamaria had previously beaten the likes of then 22-1 Mykal Fox, former world champion Devon Alexander and held the WBC Continental Americas Welterweight Championship with a victory over former world-title challenger Abel Ramos in February 2022.

Looking like a reborn version of himself, Flaz used his power and speed to drop Santamaria three times before getting the sixth-round stoppage.

Flaz, who started boxing at age 16 and won 88 of his 95 amateur fights including two consecutive national titles, says he’s finally got everything he needs in place to become a serious player in the stacked 147-lb division.

“I feel great,” said Flaz of signing with Lewkowicz. “He was the promoter I wanted from the start of my career. He can take me to the next level and keep me as active as I need to be to be at my best.”

Flaz adds that since losing by KO (to Janelson Bocachica), he has rededicated himself to training with head trainer David Oyola and assistant trainer/manager Belvin García in his native Puerto Rico and made tremendous gains in every aspect of his game. The hard work was on full display against Santamaria, as Flaz dictated every aspect of the fight against a tough and well-respected veteran.

“I don’t feel like boxing is a job,” said the confident Flaz. “It’s my passion and I love it. I’m ready to start climbing the rankings and get to the world championship and I have the team in place to do it.

“Losing may have helped him,” said Lewkowicz of his latest signee Flaz. “He was over-confident, and it cost him. Now he doesn’t take anyone lightly and puts in the work it takes to become a champion. I am very happy to be part of his team and will be working hard to help him realize his boxing dreams.”

#

About Sampson Boxing

Sampson Boxing has promotional partners all over North and South America, Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe and Central America. Sampson Boxing events have been televised on such premiere networks as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, ESPN+, DAZN, VS., FOX, Fox Sports and several international networks. For more information, visit sampsonboxing.com.

SAN DIEGO (March 19, 2024) — Emanuel “El Vaquero” Navarrete hopes to join an elite circle of his Mexican countrymen, but he’ll have to venture into a new weight class against one of its top contenders.
 
Navarrete will take on Ukraine’s Denys Berinchyk for the vacant WBO lightweight world championship on Saturday, May 18 at Pechanga Arena San Diego. The fighting pride of San Juan Zitlaltepec will attempt to join Mexican-born warriors Erik Morales, Jorge Arce, Juan Manuel Marquez, Leo Santa Cruz, and Canelo Alvarez in becoming a four-weight world champion.
 
In the welterweight co-feature, San Diego’s Giovani Santillan, the WBO No. 1 contender, returns in front of the hometown fans against an opponent to be named.
 
Navarrete-Berinchyk and Santillan’s return will be broadcast LIVE on ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
 
Promoted by Top Rank, ticket information will be announced shortly.
 
“The San Diego boxing fans are passionate, and we are thrilled to be bringing Emanuel Navarrete back to Pechanga Arena as he bids to become a four-weight world champion,” said Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum. “We are also excited to showcase San Diego’s hometown hero, Giovani Santillan, a wonderful young man who I believe will be a welterweight world champion before long.”
 
Navarrete (38-1-1, 31 KOs) captured his first world title by upsetting Isaac Dogboe for the WBO junior featherweight crown in December 2018. After five defenses, he moved up to featherweight, where he handed Ruben Villa his first pro defeat to become a two-weight champion. The 29-year-old defended his belt three times before climbing up to junior lightweight to stop Liam Wilson in the ninth round to secure the WBO strap. Navarrete made two defenses in this third weight class, decisioning former two-division world champion Oscar Valdez in an all-Mexican showdown in August and dropping Brazilian Olympic gold medalist Robson Conceição twice en route to a majority draw in November.
 
Navarrete said, “Capturing a world title is a unique challenge, but the possibility of doing it four weight classes is a goal that fills me with motivation and gratitude. It will be an honor to join that select group of Mexican warriors who have made their mark in boxing history. And to be able to do it in front of fans in San Diego and from Tijuana will be an unforgettable experience. Feeling their support and energy in the ring will propel me to do my best and secure this victory for Mexico.”
 
Berinchyk (18-0, 9 KOs), a 2012 Olympic silver medalist on the same team as Vasiliy Lomachenko and Oleksandr Usyk, began his professional career in 2015. Berinchyk overcame stiff tests on his ascent up the lightweight ladder. In 2021, he vanquished Jose Sanchez via third-round TKO in March and decisioned Isa Chaniev across 12 rounds in December. After a one-year break, he defeated Yvan Mendy to win European honors. He followed up the Mendy win last August with a convincing decision over former world title challenger Anthony Yigit in Poland. The 35-year-old will have his first world title opportunity as he makes his U.S. debut.
 
Santillan (32-0, 17 KOs), who turned pro in May 2012, has steadily ascended the welterweight rankings. In 2022, he stopped Jeovanis Barraza in the seventh round before making his second Pechanga Arena appearance by giving Julio Luna his first pro loss on the undercard of Navarrete’s featherweight title defense against Eduardo Baez. He returned in July 2023 to best Erick Bone via 10-round decision. In his last outing, he stunned the boxing world with a one-sided, six-round demolition of number one contender Alexis Rocha at Kia Forum in Los Angeles. Santillan is on the precipice of becoming the second San Diego-born world champion, following Paul Vaden, who captured the IBF junior middleweight world title in 1995.
 
“After my last win, I’m excited to keep the ball rolling. I showed everyone what I could do and earned the WBO No. 1 ranking. I am looking forward to continuing with those types of performances and showing why I deserve a title shot,” Santillan said. “I want to gain more fans in San Diego, grow the fan base in my hometown, and pave the way for other fighters from my city. There hasn’t been a San Diego-born champion in a long time, and I want to be the next one.”

Las Vegas (March 19, 2024) – Four-division world champion and Hall of Famer Roy Jones Jr., has confirmed that he will appear at the Seventh Annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday May 4, 2024 at the Las Vegas Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Expo will also coincide with the mega fight between Canelo Alvarez vs Jaime Munguia, that will take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena.

Jones will hold a Meet & Greet with his fans at his booth during the fan event held over the Cinco De Mayo weekend. 

The Box Fan Expo is an annual fan event that coincides with some of the sports’ legendary, classic fights in Las Vegas, including Mayweather vs. Maidana II, Mayweather vs. Berto, Canelo vs. Chavez Jr., Canelo vs. GGG II, Canelo vs. Jacobs and Canelo vs. GGG III. 

Centered in boxing’s longtime home – Las Vegas – this year’s Expo is a must-do for fight fans coming in for this legendary weekend, with dozens of professional fighters, promoters, and companies involved in the boxing industry. The Expo is the largest and only Boxing Fan Expo held in the United States. http://boxfanexpo.com – @BoxFanExpo

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2024

Jones will make his fourth appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and memorabilia. Jones will also have merchandise to sell for fans to enjoy. Boxing Fans will have an opportunity to also take pictures with this Boxing living legend, considered by many as one of the greatest Pound for Pound and best Boxer of all time.

Jones joins Erik Morales, Shawn Porter, Fernando Vargas, Juan Manuel Marquez, Michael Spinks, Claressa Shields and Marco Antonio Barrera as an early commitment to this year’s Box Fan Expo, with more Boxing stars to be announced.

About Roy Jones Jr.

Roy Jones Jr. is an American professional boxer who was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of fame in Canastota on June 12th, 2022. Jones captured numerous championships in the Middleweight, Super middleweight, Light heavyweight and Heavyweight divisions. He is the only boxer in history to start his career as a junior middleweight, and go on to win a heavyweight title. He is also noted for holding the WBC, WBA, IBF, IBO, NABF, WBF, and IBA light heavyweight championships; a record seven belts at the same time. Jones left his mark in boxing history when he won the WBA heavyweight title, becoming the first former middleweight champion to win a Heavyweight title in 106 years. As of February 2018, Jones holds the record for the most wins in unified light heavyweight title bouts in boxing history, at twelve. The Ring magazine named Jones the Fighter of the Year in 1994, and the World Boxing Hall of Fame named him the Fighter of the Year for 2003. He is also a three-time winner of the Best Boxer ESPY Award (1996, 2000, and 2003). Jones was named “Fighter of the Decade” for the 1990s by the Boxing Writers Association of America. 

?About Box Fan Expo

Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet the stars of boxing that represent the past, present and future of the sport. With hosted autograph signings, meet-and-greets with current and former boxing world champions, limited edition merchandise for sale, giveaways and more, this is the ultimate event for fans of the sport.

Past boxing stars that have participated include: Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Sugar Ray Leonard, Julio Cesar Chavez, Juan Manuel Marquez, Tommy Hearns, Roy Jones Jr, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, David Benavidez, Teofimo Lopez, Andre Ward, Ryan Garcia, Marcos Maidana, Devin Haney, Mikey Garcia, Errol Spence Jr, Fernando Vargas, Rolando Romero, Sergio Martinez, Tim Bradley, Jose Ramirez, Shawn Porter, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Abner Mares, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Floyd Mayweather sr., Claressa Shields, Vinny Paz, Mia St.John, Franchón Crews-Dezurn, Seniesa Estrada, Jorge Linares, Leo Santa Cruz, Badou Jack, Terry Norris, Riddick Bowe, Earnie Shavers, Michael & Leon Spinks, Brandon Rios, Anthony Dirrell, Danny Jacobs, and many more.

Exhibitors include boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry as a whole.

Throughout the next few weeks leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo.

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –

To request information on exhibiting and sponsorship at the Expo:

For media credentials:

Contact us:

Telephone number: (702) 997-1927 or (514) 572-7222

For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com

More information on Box Fan Expo visit: http://www.boxfanexpo.com

Follow Box Fan Expo on Twitter and Instagram at: @BoxFanExpo

Follow Box Fan Expo on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/BoxFanExpo

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (March 19, 2024) — Tickets are on sale for the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame (ACBHOF) 8th Annual Awards & Induction Weekend to be held Friday September 27th, Saturday September 28th, and Sunday September 29th, 2024 at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City and Boardwalk Resorts – Flagship Hotel. 

The ACBHOF induction weekend commences at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City on Friday September 27th with the “Opening Bell” VIP Cocktail Reception where you can engage in an meet & greets with legendary figures: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM, $60.00 admission fee online and at the door, and Saturday September 28th, Fight Fan Experience will offer boxing enthusiasts an immersive interactive experience showcasing stunning artwork, exhibits, and boxing memorabilia and so much more: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, free admission

The Highlight of the weekend is Saturday evening September 28th, red-carpet formal Induction Ceremony which takes place in an award show atmosphere. Join us as we honor all who helped make Atlantic City a worldwide boxing Mecca. Attendees will enjoy the opportunity to mix and mingle with boxing royalty and special VIP guests.  

On behalf of Hard Rock Atlantic City, we are proud to welcome back Atlantic City’s Boxing Hall of Fame. This exciting event offers boxing enthusiasts a wonderful experience to interact and meet some of the most influential and legendary names in boxing history. Hosting unique events such as the ACBHOF continues to provide us with the most diverse entertainment line-up in Atlantic City,” stated Mike Woodside, VP of Entertainment & Marketing, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City

 Tickets can be purchased by visiting: Ticketmaster | ticket prices are: $125.00 & $60.00

Please visit our website for event tickets, room reservations and full event schedule and itinerary by visiting us at: www.acbhof.com  

“We eagerly anticipate the induction of these distinguished individuals chosen for the “2024” Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame. We look forward with great enthusiasm to celebrating and paying tribute to this exceptional group, whose contributions have played a significant role in establishing Atlantic City as a globally recognized boxing Mecca.” – Ray McCline, President, Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame 

“Thank you esteemed colleagues for selecting me for a prestigious position such as an inductee in the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame! This is a great honor and I salute you all. Moreover, Atlantic City has been great to me throughout my career and I have fond memories of the many fights fought there while pursuing my Championship journey. I look forward to seeing you all in September 2024.” – James Buster Douglas

“Atlantic City holds many great memories from my boxing career, where I experienced triumph and defeat. The iconic Boardwalk Hall marked the start of my recognition on the world boxing stage, establishing me as one of the best globally. I’m humbled and forever grateful for being inducted into Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame rich boxing history. Thank you for this extraordinary recognition.” – Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez 

“I cherish the memories from my time in Atlantic City, where numerous significant moments unfolded in my life. I’m so proud to be honored by A. C. Boxing Hall of Fame, particularly at this juncture in my life when it might seem that the efforts I invested to achieve championship status are overlooked by many. I’m humbled by this recognition” – Paul Williams 

2024 INDUCTION CLASS:

  FIGHTERS: James Buster Douglas, Sergio Martinez, Paul Williams, Gerry Cooney, Mark Breland, Sharmba Mitchell, Tyrone Mitchell Frazier, Mario Maldonado and Eva Jones-Young CONTRIBUTORS: James “Buddy” Mcgirt, Bruce Blair, Sampson Lewkowicz, Eric Bottjer, Randy Gordon, Guy Gargan POSTHUMOUSLY: Howard Davis Jr., Jay Larkin, Eddie Cotton PIONEERS: Eric Seelig, George Godfrey, Joey Giardello 

A special thanks to our partners, sponsors and supporters: Mayor Marty Small Sr., City of Atlantic City, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, Flagship Hotel-Club Boardwalk Resorts, Casino Reinvestment Development Authority, Irish Pub -Atlantic City, Sampson Boxing, Sparbar Ltd, Bare Knuckle Fighting Champions, Tennessee Ave Tobacco Company, Fight Night Apparel, Icons of Boxing Memorabilia, Adams Boxing, WBC, IBF, CM 3D Crystal’s, Chris Guzman Gloves and Patrick Killian Arts.

For more information, visit the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame’s website at: www.acbhof.com

PROVIDENCE, RI – CES Boxing is proud to announce an exclusive multi-fight pro boxing promotional agreement with former 2-time Muay Thai world champion Kinjo “The One” Espada. The 22-year-old will make his professional boxing debut at ‘CES Boxing Homecoming’ on Saturday, March 23 at Bally’s Twin River Lincoln Casino against undefeated welterweight prospect Jeff Gonzalez (4-0, 2 KOs). 

‘CES Boxing Homecoming’ is a stacked 8-bout card featuring many of the top fighters in New England.  The card takes place at Bally’s Twin River Lincoln Casino on Saturday, March 23.  Tickets are available at CESFights.com, priced at $60, $80, $155, and $180.  Fans who can’t make it to Bally’s can catch the action live and for free on Swerve Combat TV.

“Kinjo Espada is a tremendous talent,” said CES Boxing founder Jimmy Burchfield, Sr.  “I am honored to welcome him to our team.  He is already a world champion in Muay Thai and I will ensure that he surpasses those accomplishments in boxing.  He has a great team around him, and his family embodies the values of humility, discipline, and dedication that I look for in fighters.”

Born in San Diego to a Puerto Rican and Italian father and a Vietnamese and Filipino mother, the multi-ethnic pugilist has also lived in Las Vegas and Everett, MA before settling in Pawtucket, Rhode Island earlier this year.  That makes for a broad fanbase as his career takes off.

“Oh yeah,” agrees John Espada, Sr.  “Our fans travel.  For this fight, we’ll have people coming in from California, Vegas, Massachusetts, the Carolinas, and Florida.”      

However, rather than coming up the amateur boxing circuit, Kinjo and his brother John Jr. are well known for their Muay Thai, where Kinjo amassed a 56-6 amateur record.  In the process, he became an 8-time national champion and a 2-time world champion.  This earned Espada an invitation to join the United States Muay Thai team, where he served as the captain and qualified for the US Olympic team when Muay Thai was considered on a provisional basis.  As luck would have it, the COVID pandemic struck and put a halt to those plans, altering Espada’s fate in favor of the Sweet Science.

“Boxing has always been in my family,” explains Espada.  “I’m a third-generation boxer.  My grandfather fought and my father fought.  We did do Muay Thai first, but my heart will always be in boxing.” 

John Espada Sr., who raised his 3 kids as a single father for 12 years before remarrying 5 years ago, believed that Muay Thai would provide his sons with the discipline and humility that is sometimes missing in boxing.

“The reason why I started them in Muay Thai instead of boxing, is that I don’t like what boxing has become,” says John Sr.  “By design, I didn’t want my sons in the limelight like some of these other boxers who are always on YouTube and getting into trouble for what they say or do.  I used Muay Thai as a vessel for them to gain their notoriety because I knew that it would teach them true discipline and it would translate well into boxing.”

The transition to boxing is going to be a steep one for Kinjo.  With his father and co-trainer Brian Johnson, the fighter and his team decided that he was ready for the pro ranks after only one amateur contest.  Rather than debuting against a boxer with a losing record to test the waters, Kinjo is jumping into the deep end by facing an undefeated prospect in Jeff Gonzalez.

“I only had one amateur fight,” laughs Kinjo.  “But I sparred a lot of professional boxers when I was in Muay Thai. I did pretty well, so I’m confident.  I know that my opponent is 4-0 and finished his last 2 opponents.  I think beating him in my debut is going to make a statement.” 

A win against an undefeated prospect in his pro debut would make quite a statement, and CES Boxing plans to keep him very active if he does.

“Definitely,” agrees Burchfield Sr.  “If he wins on Saturday, the sky’s the limit.  He’ll fight at Bally’s again on May 11 and then at Mohegan Sun Arena on June 15th.”

The journey begins for “The One” this Saturday at Bally’s Twin River Lincoln Casino.

For more information, follow CES Boxing on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @CESBOXING.

INFORMATION

CES Boxing is one of the top promotions on the East Coast.  Founded in 1992 by Jimmy Burchfield Sr., CES Boxing has promoted many world class fighters, including Jamaine Ortiz, Juiseppe Cusumano, Hank Lundy, Vinny Paz, Peter Manfredo, Mariusz Wach, Jason Estrada, Matt Godfrey, Chad Dawson and Ray Oliveira. CES Boxing has promoted such super fights as “The Thriller on Triller: Tyson v Jones Jr.”, “Mayweather vs. Gotti III” and “The Contender: Manfredo v Pemberton”.

QUINCY, Mass. (March 19, 2024)  – One of the Northeast’s elite contemporary prizefighters, New Haven (CT) super featherweight William “The Silent Assassin” Foster III (16-1, 10 KOs), has been added to this Saturday night’s “Pandemonium at The Palladium 3” pro boxing card, presented by Granite Chin Promotions (GCP).

All of the “Pandemonium at the Palladium 3” action will be streamed on www.BXNGTV.com live from the famed Palladium in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Foster was a celebrated amateur boxer who captured top honors in the 2012 and 2014 New England Golden Gloves Championships, as well as taking a Silver Medal at the prestigious National Golden Gloves runner-up in 2014. Ranked No. 14 in super featherweight division by the World Boxing Association (WBA), Foster is the reigning WBA Fedecentro Champion who will face an opponent to be finalized in an eight-round, non-title fight.

Card subject to change.

Tickets are priced at $45.00 (standing room), $50.00 (balcony), $90.00 (mezzanine), $125.00 (floor) and $650.00 (booth of 4) and available for purchase online at www.ThePalladium.net. Tickets will be available for purchase Saturday night at the Palladium’s box office.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET, first bout at 7 p.m. ET.

INFORMATION:  

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

LAS VEGAS – March 18, 2024 – Undefeated rising star Tim Tszyu will take on all-action contender Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora for Tszyu’s WBO title (pending approval), and the vacant WBC 154-pound world title, headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event available on Prime Video Saturday, March 30 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Tszyu had originally been scheduled to face two-time world champion Keith Thurman, who was forced to withdraw after suffering a bicep injury in training. Fundora had already been preparing to compete in the pay-per-view opener before being moved up to the main event.

The pay-per-view will begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and also features WBA Super Lightweight World Champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero taking on Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz in the co-main event, plus WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara duels Australia’s Michael Zerafa in a 12-round attraction. The pay-per-view opener will now see WBC Flyweight World Champion Julio César Martínez defending his world title against unbeaten contender Angelino Cordova. Martinez vs. Cordova had originally been scheduled to appear in prelims action.

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through PPV.com, as well as traditional cable and satellite outlets.

Preceding the pay-per-view will be a two-fight PBC on Prime Video lineup beginning at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT, topped by rising middleweight Elijah García taking on contender Kyrone “Shut It Down” Davis in a 10-round attraction. Kicking off the stream will be exciting 154-pound contenders Serhii Bohachuk and Brian Mendoza battling for the Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title. Bohachuk had been originally scheduled to face Fundora before the changes to the lineup. The two matchups will be available via free access to all fans, regardless of Prime membership or purchase of the PPV card.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are available now through AXS.com. The main event is promoted in association with No Limit Boxing.

*TIM TSZYU VS. SEBASTIAN FUNDORA*

The son of International Boxing Hall of Famer Kostya Tszyu, the 29-year-old Tszyu (24-0, 17 KOs) comes off a red-hot 2023 campaign that saw him elevated to world champion at 154-pounds while defeating former world champion Tony Harrison, top contender Brian Mendoza and former title challenger Carlos Ocampo. A native of Sydney, Australia, Tszyu made his U.S debut against U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in March 2022, earning a unanimous decision. Tszyu grew up playing soccer, but soon gravitated toward boxing. The decision led to him following in the legendary footsteps of his father, Kostya, who was an undisputed 140-pound champion.

Fundora (20-1-1, 13 KOs) rocketed to the top of the super welterweight division with a fan-friendly style and bruising toughness in the ring. His unbeaten streak came to an end in his last outing, as he got caught and was defeated by Brian Mendoza in April of last year. At nearly 6-foot-6, the 26-year-old southpaw from Coachella, Calif., towers over his opponents, but has displayed an appetite for toe-to-toe combat from short range. Fundora showed his mettle in April 2022, battling the hard-hitting Erickson Lubin in an instant 2022 Fight of the Year contender. Despite both men hitting the canvas, Fundora stood tall in the end, prompting Lubin’s corner to stop the fight at the end of the ninth round. Fundora represents a boxing family, as he is trained by his father Freddy alongside his younger sister, IBF Flyweight World Champion Gabriela.

*ROLANDO ROMERO VS. ISAAC CRUZ*

Part of the Mayweather Promotions stable, Romero (15-1, 13 KOs) is known for his brash talk that he backs up with power in both hands as well as an exciting, unique style that makes him a must-see whenever he steps between the ropes. The 28-year-old rose to the ranks of world champion in his last outing, stopping Ismael Barroso in round nine to win the title in May. It was Romero’s first return to the ring since a May 2022 defeat against three-division champion Gervonta Davis. Prior to the Davis fight, the Las Vegas resident Romero won an interim title in August 2020 by earning a close but unanimous decision over then unbeaten Jackson Marinez. 

One of the most exciting fighters in boxing, the 25-year-old Cruz (25-2-1, 17 KOs) has racked up three consecutive victories since dropping a competitive and entertaining decision against undefeated superstar Gervonta Davis in December 2021. A native of Mexico City, Cruz shot up the lightweight rankings in 2020, announcing his presence with an electrifying first-round knockout over veteran Diego Magdaleno in October before adding dominant decisions over Francisco Vargas and Jose Matias Romero. After stopping former champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in April 2022 and veteran contender Eduardo Ramirez in September 2022, Cruz returned this past July to turn away the previously unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera by decision.

*ERISLANDY LARA VS. MICHAEL ZERAFA*

Lara (29-3-3, 17 KOs) was the longest reigning 154-pound world champion before he lost a tough split-decision to Jarrett Hurd in a 2018 title unification match that earned “Fight of the Year” from the BWAA. Lara returned from that fight and battled former 154-pound world titleholder Brian Castaño to an exciting draw in another narrow fight that could have gone Lara’s way. Lara most recently moved up to middleweight, capturing his WBA title with a first round knockout of Thomas LaManna in May 2021, before KO’ing Gary O’Sullivan in May 2022. Lara faced a slew of the top 154-pounders in the sport, including Canelo Alvarez, ahead of his middleweight debut.

Melbourne, Australia’s Zerafa (31-4, 19 KOs) is long established as one of his country’s top contenders and has won four-straight to earn the title fight on March 30. Zerafa has split a pair of matchups against former champion and Australian rival Jeff Horn in addition to a first round knockout of longtime contender Anthony Mundine. The 31-year-old previously fought stateside in 2015, as he dropped a contest to former middleweight champion Peter Quillin. The veteran has also challenged former champion Kell Brook and defeated previously unbeaten fighters Danilo Creati and Isaac Hardman in his last two fights.

*JULIO CESAR MARTINEZ VS. ANGELINO CORDOVA*

Trained by the renowned Eddy Reynoso, Martínez (20-2, 15 KOs) first captured his flyweight world title with a ninth-round stoppage of Cristofer Rosales in his stateside debut in December 2019. The 29-year-old has gone on to defend the title five times, besting previously unbeaten opponents Jay Harris and Samuel Carmona, while most recently stopping Ronal Batista in May. A native of Mexico City, Martínez’s only blemish since a split-decision loss in his pro debut was a decision loss to future Hall of Famer Roman Gonzalez in March 2022.

The 28-year-old Cordova (18-0-1, 12 KOs) earned a career-best victory in his last outing, as he bested former world champion Angel Acosta on his way to a 10-round unanimous decision victory last April. A native of Ciudad Bolivar, Venezuela, Cordova has yet to taste defeat since debuting in 2017, with a draw in just his fourth fight as the only blemish. He made his U.S. debut in June 2022, defeating Axel Aragon Vega by decision before the triumph over Acosta.

*ELIJAH GARCIA VS. KYRONE DAVIS*

Fighting out of Phoenix, Arizona, García (16-0, 13 KOs) earned three impressive victories in 2023, kicking off his year last March with a knockout of the previously unbeaten Amilcar Vidal. He followed that up with a pair of performances on the undercards of two of the biggest events of the year, first defeating Kevin Salgado on the Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia pay-per-view in April before knocking out Armando Resendiz on the Canelo Alvarez vs. Jermell Charlo pay-per-view in September. The precocious García has moved fast since turning pro in 2020 and has knocked out seven of his last nine opponents.

The 29-year-old Davis (18-3-1, 6 KOs) picked up two victories in 2023, dominating Cristian Fabian Rios in January before scoring a unanimous decision over Cruse Stewart in December. Those victories came after a run that saw Davis battle two-time champion Anthony Dirrell to a draw in February 2021, before stepping in as a late replacement two fights later to drop a hard-fought contest against super middleweight superstar David Benavidez. An amateur standout representing Wilmington, Delaware, Davis trains in Philadelphia under the tutelage of top trainer Stephen “Breadman” Edwards.

*SERHII BOHACHUK VS. BRIAN MENDOZA*

A 28-year-old from Ukraine, Bohachuk (23-1, 23 KOs) now resides in Los Angeles, where he’s fought out of since turning pro. The 28-year-old has won five-straight outings, including 2023 stoppages of Nathaniel Gallimore and Patrick Allotey. This run has come after a defeat to Brandon Adams in March 2021 and has seen him rise back up the 154-pound rankings. He won his first 18 fights after turning pro in 2017 following an extensive amateur career.

Originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico and now fighting out of Las Vegas, Mendoza (22-3, 16 KOs) will return to the ring after traveling to Australia last October to challenge Tim Tszyu for his world title in a matchup that saw him lose by decision. Prior to that fight, The 30-year-old scored one of the year’s biggest upsets in April as he stopped the previously unbeaten Fundora with a sensational knockout in round seven, solidifying his own status at 154 pounds. Reinvigorated since teaming with renowned trainer Ismael Salas, Mendoza had previously knocked out former unified 154-pound champion Jeison Rosario in November 2022. Mendoza had put together a three-fight winning streak since dropping a decision to highly touted knockout artist Jesus Ramos in September 2021.

#         #         #

For more information visit www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #TszyuFundora and #RollyPitbull, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions

LOS ANGELES (March 18, 2024) – Toro Promotions, Inc. will showcase a heavyweight trio of talent – undefeated 2020 Ukraine Olympian Tsotne Rogava (5-0, 5 KOs), Alexander “The Great” Flores (18-4-1, 16 KOs) and Kingsley Ibeh (11-2-1, 9 KOs) – this Saturday night (March 23) at LumColor Phoenix Center in Ontario, California.

The event is co-promoted by Toro Promotions, Inc. and Fearless Boxing Promotions.

The 6’ 5”, 270-pound Rogava is on the fast track. Born in Georgia, Rogava lived for several years in Ukraine until moving last year to Marina del Rei, California. He has successfully transitioned to boxing from his world class Muay Thai and kickboxing career.

Rogava is on the fast track; this fight will be his third in 2024, albeit neither bout went beyond the first round. In fact, the powerful heavyweight has only box seven rounds in his five pro fights to date.

In addition to headlining a card for the second time in a row. Rogava will be in his first scheduled eight-round bout on March 23^rd, taking on dangerous puncher Antonio Brown (8-4, 8 KOs) in the main event.

Fighting out of Rowland Heights, California, Flores plans to rebound from his 10-round unanimous decision loss to 15-1-1 Dante Stone this past January 4. Flores’ three other pro career losses have all been to world champions Luis Ortiz, Joseph Parker, and Charles Martin

Flores, 33, faces Josue Vargas (5-6-2, 2 KOs) in a six-round match.

Ibeh, known as “The Black Lion,” is a native of Nigeria who lives in Phoenix. The 6’ 4” Ibeh will be riding a six-fight win streak into his six-round fight with Derek Cardenas (9-11, 2 KOs). Ibeh has boxing in his blood. His cousin is Ike Ibeabuchi, who was 20-0 with 15 knockouts and one of the most feared heavyweights in boxing, prior to his 16-year incarceration in Nevada.

Fights subject to change.

INFORMATION:

Instagram: @ToroPromotionsInc

Facebook: /ToroPromotionsInc

You Tube: @ToroPromotionsINC

X (formerly Twitter): @ToroPromotions

TikTok: @ToroPromo

NEW YORK CITY (March 18, 2024) – New York City police officer and decorated amateur boxer Nisa Rodriguez returned home last Friday night to the scene of many of her amateur victories, Madison Square Garden Theater in Manhattan, and the gifted, popular super middleweight turned in an auspicious pro boxing debut.

Rodriguez, fighting out of Manhattan, pitched a near shutout, winning each round on all but one of the judges’ scorecards enroute to a four-round unanimous decision (40-36 X 2, 39-37) over an outclassed yet game Jozette Cotton on 360 Promotions’ St. Patrick’s Day weekend event streamed live on UFC Fight Pass.

“When I was warming up,” Rodriguez said, “it felt like the golden gloves all over again. I was really relaxed, and everything felt normal. There were so many people there (supporting her), half the (police) department must have been there. It was a long time coming. It was an honor. 360 Promotions took a risk because I hadn’t been active. I want to thank my manager, Keith Sullivan, trainer Jimmy Sosa, and the Bronx crew.

“I wish I started the fight like I ended it, but I hurt a knuckle on my right hand in the first round, and I didn’t let my hand go until later in the fight. Headgear is used in the amateurs to protect the fighter, but I really enjoyed fighting without it because it can be an annoyance, especially for females. I’m ready to go back in the gym yesterday.”

SUPPORTING NISA RODRIGUEZ (L-R) – Mina Yoshida and her mother, IBF Bantamweight World Champion Miyo Yoshida, 9-time, 7-division world champion Amanda Serrano, and Nisa and Miyo’s manager, NYC-based attorney Keith Sullivan (photo courtesy of Sullivan Management)

“I am really pleased with her performance,” Sullivan remarked. “For months there has been a lot of noise or hype around this pro debut, and she handled it all in stride. I didn’t pull the typical manager move for a debit and get her a warm body that would go down in one round. Nisa knew she had a tough opponent, but she stayed poised and boxed well. There are always things to improve on, and I’ve never seen a fighter more eager to get back in the gym to grind and work on those things than Nisa. We already are in talks for her next fight. My work on that literally started 10-minutes after Nisa’s hand was raised victoriously Friday night.”

As an elite amateur boxer, Rodriguez was an eight-time New York Daily News Golden Gloves, six-time Metro Championships, two-time Empire State and Caribbean and Central Americano gold medalist. The large majority of these fights were held at Madison Square Garden Theater, so Nisa felt comfortable fighting at home in her pro debut. She also captured three National Golden Gloves Championship titles.

A NYC police officer for two years, Rodriguez is stationed citywide for the rapid response unit, specializing in any crimes that involve adolescents, and supporting families of homicides.

Sullivan, a former Deputy Commissioner with the New York State Athletic Commission, and longtime boxing lawyer, also manages IBF Bantamweight World Champion Miyo Yoshida (17-4, 0 KOs) and Brooklyn heavyweight prospect Pryce Taylor (3-0, 2 KOs), in addition to co-managing World Boxing Association (WBA) No. 12-rated welterweight contender Paddy “The Real Deal” Donovan (13-0, 10 KOs), the reigning WBA Continental Champion from Limerick, Ireland. Sullivan co-manages Donovan with former world middleweight champion Andy Lee.

TEAM RODRIGUEZ (L-R) – Sergiy Korchynsky, Jimmy Sosa, manager Keith Sullivan, Nisa Rodriguez and Aurillano Sosa

(Photo courtesy of 360 Promotions)

INFORMATION

Instagram: @Sweet_destruction

Facebook: /NisaRodriguez

SAN FRANCISCO (March 17, 2024) –  Undefeated super middleweight prospect Tommy “The Governor” Hyde (8-0, 5 KOs) captured his first title as a professional this past Saturday night on St. Patrick’s Day Eve, outside of San Francisco at Fox Theater in Redwood City, California.

The 24-year-old Hyde, fighting out of Cork, dethroned defending champion Craig “BTL” McCarthy (10-2-1, 2 KOs), to take the Boxing Union of Ireland Celtic Super Middleweight Champion belt in the fifth round on a card presented by Westside Promotions.

“It’s always a great feeling to win but winning with a title on the line and bringing it home makes that feeling even better,” Hyde said. “I’m happy with my performance. I didn’t waste any shots and felt dominant.

“It was unreal to finally fight in San Francisco. I have made a lot of friends here and made a lot more this week. I’ll definitely fight here again.”

Hyde was comfortable from the opening bell, establishing his range in round one, and then controlling the action with slick counter-punching. McCarthy started to break down and was floored in the second round. Hyde pounded his tough opponent, nearly stopping him at the end of rounds three and four, before he closed the show 30-seconds into round five when referee David Irvine widely halted the action.

In the end, Hyde was simply too big, strong, young and talented for McCarthy to handle.

“This was probably my best performance so far,” Hyde noted. “I fought a tough opponent and won the fight convincingly. I trained very hard for this fight, and I think that showed under the lights.

A celebrated Irish amateur boxer, Hyde participated in more than 100 amateur matches, reached the quarterfinals of the prestigious World Junior Championships in 2015, in addition to capturing three Irish National Championships, three Celtic Cup titles and the 2019 Haringey Box Cup.

Tommy’s father, international boxing manager Gary Hyde, commented: “I am very proud of my son Tommy’s performance on Saturday night. Tommy fought intelligently, hurting his opponent continuously before closing the show at the beginning of the fifth round. Tommy is officially the number 1 super middleweight in Ireland so the Boxing Union of Ireland will decide who he will fight for the vacant Irish Super middleweight title.” 

Tommy “The Governor” Hyde is bringing home his new Celtic belt with visions of adding more hardware in 2024 to his collection.

“Winning the Celtic title makes me the mandatory for the Irish title and I’d love to go for that next,” Hyde concluded. “I want to keep picking up titles while I’m developing as a professional and the Irish title is definitely one I want around my waist.”

ABOUT NOWHERETOHYDE: Founded in 2007 by Gary Hyde in Cork, Ireland, NoWhere2Hyde  offers full services for professional boxers around the world. Hyde has managed numerous world-class boxers during his career including world champions Guillermo Rigondeaux, Youri Kalenga, Nassam N’Dam and Simpiwe Vetyeaka. In addition to his son, Gary presently manages Dominican Olympian Rohan Polanco (12-0, 7 KOs).

INFORMATION:

Facebook: /nowhere2hyde, /tommyhyde

Twitter: @nowhere2hyde, @tommyhyde99

Instagram: @gary_nowhere2hyde, @tommyhyde1

By Mario Ortega Jr. (Ringside)

STOCKTON, CALIFORNIA — Making good on his hometown return, Gabriel Flores Jr. took a step back towards contention with a ten-round unanimous decision over durable and previously unbeaten Julian Rodarte at the Adventist Health Arena on Saturday night. 

Flores (23-2, 8 KOs) of Stockton used his superior boxing ability to great effect early in the bout as Rodarte (19-1-2, 8 KOs) of Downey, California struggled to find his way past the jab. 

Rodarte, 134.8, looked to be on his way to banking the fourth, until Flores, 134.4, completely took over midway through the round. Flores landed with a combination upstairs that staggered Rodarte and brought the partisan crowd to their feet. Rodarte weathered the storm with his elbows high before firing back after he regained his footing late in the act. 

Flores found the right range midway through the fight. After Rodarte made the fifth round competitive, Flores kept the Downey resident at the end of his punches for most of the sixth. Flores continued to keep his distance and land effectively throughout the seventh. Rodarte did land one of his better shots in the bout, snapping Flores’ head back in the final seconds of the round. 

As the fight moved into the final quarter, Flores seemed content to box his way to a decision as he kept his distance and picked his shots more judiciously. Rodarte was game, but struggled to cut off the ring throughout bout.  

One judge scored the bout for Rodarte, 96-94, but was overruled by the score of 98-92 twice for Flores, who claimed the vacant WBA Continental USA lightweight title with the victory. 

Fernando Vargas Jr. (14-0, 13 KOs) of Las Vegas by way of Oxnard, California made a statement as he moved up in class and stopped veteran Brad Solomon (29-7, 9 KOs) of Douglasville, Georgia by way of Lafayette, Louisiana via fourth-round stoppage. 

Vargas, 152.8, began to pull away in the fight early in the third round. Solomon, 151.2, did not have the power to keep Vargas at bay. Solomon showed signs of wilting after Vargas began a rally with a left upstairs midway through the stanza. Vargas moved in early in the fourth, forcing Solomon to a knee in his own corner. As the referee moved in, Solomon’s corner had already begun to signal to the official that they had seen enough. With the official time of 1:32 of the fourth round, referee Rudy Barragan called a halt to the bout. 

Lorenzo Powell (1-0) of Sacramento, California was made to work for his first professional victory en route to scoring a four-round unanimous decision over free-swinging Jose Valenzuela Alvarado (2-13-1, 1 KO) of Puebla, Puebla, Mexico. 

Powell, 134, was the more polished boxer but failed to consistently make Valenzuela Alvarado, 136.2, pay for his less-than-refined style. Powell made the fight more difficult than necessary, allowing Valenzuela Alvardo in close instead of keeping his distance and making the most of his Mexican adversary’s mistakes. In the end, the fight was never in doubt, as Powell took all three cards, 40-36. 

Jessie James Guerrero (4-0-2, 4 KOs) of Salinas, California returned to the ring and quickly shook off any ring rust with a second-round stoppage of veteran Jose Rodriguez Montemayor (7-9, 6 KOs) of Beaver Dam, Wisconsin by way of Piedras Negras, Coahuila de Zaragoza, Mexico.

After an aggressive, offense-minded opening round, Guerrero, 113.4, came out with a concentrated body attack to begin the second. Rodriguez Montemayor, 115.4, struggled to defend before giving in to a left hook on the beltline for the first of three trips to the mat. Guerrero would quickly find Rodriguez Montemayor’s sweet spot twice more, lastly with a right to the kidney, prompting a stoppage at 1:40 of the second round. 

In the walkout bout, Salvador Briceno (18-7-1, 11 KOs) of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico bested Cameron Krael (20-32-3, 7 KOs) of Las Vegas, Nevada via eight-round unanimous decision. 

Briceno, 146.4, and Krael, 147.6, fought on fairly even terms throughout. Briceno may have edged the rounds with a busier output. In the end, one judge scored the bout 79-73, while the other two had it 80-72, all for Briceno. 

Saturday’s near sold out event served as the inaugural showcase for G-Squad Entertainment,  new promotional entity helmed by Gabriel Flores Sr. 

Photo by Julio Sanchez/G-Squad Entertainment 

Mario Ortega Jr. can be reached at ortegajr.mario@gmail.com 

OUSTON, Texas – March 13, 2024 – Red Owl Boxing today announced
that a super bantamweight scrap between Carlos Jackson and Alexis Bastar
will serve as the co-main attraction at _Box Fest VIII_ on April 5. The
eight-round fight will be featured as part of a five-fight main card
that will stream live globally on DAZN [1] in more than 200 territories
and regions from the state-of-the-art “Owl’s Nest” in Houston. VIP
experience packages and general admission tickets are now available. [2]

Red Owl Boxing’s Box Fest series is a breeding ground for boxing’s
future stars with each event featuring a pro debut, a fighter seeking
redemption from their first career defeat and a main event bout that
will crown a champion, catapulting their career to the next level. The
Box Fest series will take center stage on the first Friday of every
month.

Jackson (19-1, 12 KOs), hailing from Atlanta, returns to the ring on a
mission to earn a position as a super bantamweight contender. In his
most recent outing, Jackson stopped Donny Garcia in a rematch of their
2018 fight that Jackson won via decision. Since his lone defeat in 2020,
Jackson has earned a three-fight winning streak including a win over a
tough, once-beaten Yonatan Guzman Pena on the undercard of a Top
Rank-promoted event in New York City.

Bastar (18-2-1, 9 KOs) of Cancun, Mexico, is seeking redemption of his
own following just the second loss of his career and the only loss since
his second professional fight in 2014. Prior to dropping a decision to
Jose Ramirez Maciel in his last outing, the southpaw rode a three fight
knockout streak. Holding more than a three-inch height and reach
advantage, Bastar looks to get back in the win column in his U.S. debut.

BOX FEST VIII will feature multiple attractions including rising
prospects, gritty veterans and action-packed fights, beginning at 10
p.m. ET/9 p.m. CT. Subscribe at DAZN.com and download the app on any
connected device.

Red Owl Boxing owns and operates the state-of-the-art sports performance
facility which features seating for more than 1,500 with a modern flare
that includes VIP experiences and unique ringside seating. The
“Owl’s Nest” is a full-service hospitality venue with high-end
sound, lighting and screens for a premier in-arena experience. The venue
is outfitted with cutting-edge production for seamless streaming and
television presentations.

The full event lineup will be unveiled shortly. For more information on
Red Owl Boxing and to purchase tickets, visit www.redowlboxing.com [3].
Fans can follow Red Owl Boxing on X [4], Instagram [5] and YouTube [6].

ABOUT RED OWL BOXING

Red Owl Boxing is a media company that specializes in delivering
world-class events from its state-of-the-art sports facilities in the
United States and Canada. Red Owl Boxing aims to bring structure to
boxing’s middle class by highlighting tomorrow’s future stars and
contenders in action-packed fights. Red Owl Boxing launched in 2021 by
Canada-based entrepreneur Gabriel Fanous who owns and operates
cutting-edge event spaces in Houston, Texas, and Brampton, Ontario, both
of which provide premier event experiences and hospitality packages.

William Zepeda punched his ticket to a title shot with a four-round bludgeoning of Maxi Hughes as The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas,

In round three, Zepeda was relentless and especially effective to the body. In round four, the beatdown continued as Zepeda continued to more or less assault Hughes all over the ring. Mercifully for Hughes his corner pulled him from the fight after the round.

Zepeda, 133.8 lbs of San Mateo Atenceo, MEX is 30-0 with 26 knockouts, Hughes, 134.6 lbs of Yorkshire, ENG is 26-7-2.

“This was another day in the office,” said William Zepeda. “Thirty different camps and thirty different wins and all I can do is thank my team. Early on I knew I had him, the strategy was to work the body and finish at the top. It is not confidence that I feel, but the weight of responsibility to keep giving this level of performances. The rivals who are at my doorstep are much stronger and have a lot more experience and we must continue to work. I will be the next champion from Mexico! I am ready for Shakur, Gervonta – who ever is ready to face me. I want to be a world champion.”

Floyd Schofield remained undefeated as Esteuri Suero did not comply wit the basic ruled of boxing and was disqualified in round five of their 10-round lightweight bout,

Schofield dominated the fight which visibly frustrated Suero into snapping the rules.

In round one, Schofield was cut above his right eye due to a headbutt. In round two, Suero was deducted a point for holding. In round four, Suero was deducted another point for throwing Schofield on the canvas. Finally in round five, Suero hit Schofield with an intentional low blow and the fight was called off at 2:07

Schofield, 134.8 lbs of Austin, TX is 17-0, Suero, 135 lbs of Las Vegas is 13-2.

Eric Priest remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Jose Sanchez in a middleweight bout.

Priest landed 92 of 310 punches. Sanchez was 63 of 229.

Priest, 159.6 lbs of Los Angeles won by scores of 100-90 and 99-91 twice and is now 13-0. Sanchez, 160 lbs of Reynosa, MEX is 21-5-1.

Tristan Kalkrreuth stopped Marquice Weston in round two of their eight-round heavyweight bout,

In round two, Kalkreuth dropped Weston with a left hand and the fight was over at 1:32.

Kalkreuth, 198.6 lbs of Las Vegas is 13-1 with 10 knockouts. Weston, 201.6 lbs of Seattle is 15-3-1.

Joel Iriarte made a successful pro debut by stopping Bryan Carguacundo in round two of their four-round welterweight bout.

Iriarte was a 17-time National Amateur dominated the action and in round two hurt Carguacundo with a couple of uppercuts and the fight was stopped at 1:26.

Iriarte, 145.2 lbs of Bakersfield, CA is 1-0 with one knockout. Carguacundo, 142.8 lbs of Las Vegas, NV is 3-6-2.

Wildly popular Nathan Heaney and Brad Pauls fought to a 12-round split draw in a middleweight fight at The Resorts World Arena in Birmingham, England.

It was a very competitive fight that had the crowd into the fight from the beginning. Scores were 116-113 for Heaney; 115-114 for Pauls and 114-114.

Heaney, 159 lbs of Stoke-On-Trent, ENG is 18-0-1. Pauls, 159 lbs of Essex, ENG is 18-1-1.

Liam Davies stopped Erick Robles in round two of their 12-round super bantamweight fight.

In round two, Davies dropped Robles with a hard right uppercut that was followed by a left hook Robles was badly hurt and are two punches and was dropped on his back, and the fight was over at 1:17.

Davies, 121 lbs of Donnington, ENG is 16-0 with eight knockouts. Robles, 121 lbs of Ensenada, MEX is 15-2.

Former Interim world heavyweight champion Joe Joyce beat up and beat down Kash Ali and scored knockout in the waning seconds of their 10-round bout.

In round 10, Joyce landed a big uppercut that put Ali down on his back. He got up just as the referee hit the count of 10 at 2:53.

Joyce, 286 lbs of London, England won by scores of and is now 16-2 with 15 knockouts. Ali, 238 lbs of Ritherham, ENG is 21-3.

Zach Parker won a 10-round unanimous decision over former world champion Tyron Zeuge in a light heavyweight battle.

In round two, Zeuge dropped Parker with a short right hand.

Parker recovered and won most of the remaining rounds and took the cards by scores of 98-91, 97-92 and 96-94 and is now 24-1. Zeuge of Berlin, GER is 27-2-1.

Dennis McCann scored a 12-round unanimous decision over Brand Strand in a battle of undefeated welterweigts.

In round two, McCann dropped Strand with a perfect left-right combination from the southpaw stance. Stand’s face started to redden and bleed throughout the fight.

McCann, 121 lbs of Kent, ENG won by scores of 118-111, 116-111 and 116-112 and is now 15-0-1. Strand, 121 lbs of Liverpool is 11-1.

Owen Copper stopped Ethan James in round nine of a 10-round welterweight bout.

It was a good fight with guys landing good shots. Cooper took control of the fight as he started to snap the head back of James back in the later rounds. The corner of James pulled their man from the fight before round 10.

Cooper or Worcester, ENG is 10-0 with four knockouts. James of Northampton, ENG is 12-1.

he World Boxing Association sends its best wishes to the legend Roberto “Hands of Stone” Duran, who is going through a complicated health condition, as reported by his entourage through the Panamanian’s social networks. 

Duran is one of the greatest living legends of boxing, and a great WBA champion who has been an ally in dozens of activities of the pioneer organization, always ready to be part of the events organized by the oldest body in the world. 

The entity has been in constant communication with Durán’s entourage, who is in the hospital and is undergoing the respective tests to know the situation. In the communication it was reported that it is a complete atrioventricular, a heart condition. 

The pioneer organization wishes a speedy recovery to the champion and that he may soon be able to resume his activities as the great world figure he is.

LAS VEGAS – March 15, 2024 – Tickets are on sale now for a showdown between Mexican superstars as Canelo Promotions presents a Cinco de Mayo weekend blockbuster that will see pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez put his undisputed super middleweight world title on the line against unbeaten all-action former world champion Jaime Munguía headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, May 4 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Tickets can be purchased through AXS.com.

The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions, TGB Promotions, Golden Boy Promotions and Zanfer Boxing Promotions.

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to purchase the PPV via DAZN.com. On top of those options, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets.

Canelo vs. Munguía is the first four-belt undisputed title fight between Mexican combatants and harkens back to the great Mexico vs. Mexico matchups of the past including classics such as Erik Morales vs. Marco Antonio Barrera, Carlos Zárate vs. Alfonso Zamora and Jesús Castillo vs. Rubén Olivares, amongst many others. Canelo has already etched himself in history alongside the greatest Mexican fighters to enter the ring and can add to that legacy on May 4, while Munguía hopes to move himself up the pedestal and make his own lasting mark in the boxing annals with a signature victory Cinco de Mayo weekend.

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For more information visit www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #CaneloMunguia, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions

DETROIT, MI – March 15, 2024 – Salita Promotions has signed top super lightweight contender Michel “La Zarza Ali” Rivera to a long-term deal, adding a crown jewel to one of boxing’s most talented stables of up-and-coming fighters.

“I am excited about reaching my goal of being a world champion,” said Rivera, who’s targeting a spring return. “This is going to be a great year for me, as I look forward to continuing on the path of fighting and beating the biggest names in my division. I have a great team and a smart promoter in Salita. He understands boxing and knows what I can do inside that ring to reach my potential. I am excited to work with Salita and to fight on DAZN, where there are the biggest stars in the super lightweight division. These fights will give me the opportunity to reach championship star status, and that’s all I want.”

Born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and now training out of Massachusetts, Rivera (25-1, 14 KOs) most recently competed in November, earning an impressive unanimous decision over former 140-pound world champion Sergey Lipinets. It was Rivera’s first fight at 140 pounds and followed up the only defeat of his career, a 2022 decision loss to Frank Martin.

The 25-year-old burst onto the scene in 2019, making his United States debut with a victory over Rene Tellez Giron on SHOWTIME. He continued his ascent with five more victories in 2020 and 2021, before beginning 2022 with triumphs over Joseph Adorno and Jerry Perez. Known as “La Zarza Ali” due to his uncanny resemblance to a young Muhammad Ali, he’s stood out for his own blend of speed and technical skill that he displays in the ring.

“The 140-pound division is one of the hottest in boxing, and Michel Rivera has the resume, talent, youth and personality to set it on fire,” said Dmitriy Salita, President of Salita Promotions. “I’m thrilled about his future and the championship potential he’s already displayed throughout his career.”

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ABOUT SALITA PROMOTIONS:

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

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

Josh Taylor has suffered an injury in his training camp and his upcoming fight with Jack Catterall on April 27 has been postponed. The fight has been immediately rescheduled for May 25 at the same venue in Leeds – live on DAZN.

Tickets remain valid for the revised date with refunds for the sold-out event at the First Direct Arena also available, in line with the terms and conditions of our ticket agency partners. 

Peter McGrail’s rematch with Ja’Rico O’Quinn will now take place on April 27 at the Exhibition Centre Liverpool. Full details for this NXTGEN event will be announced by Matchroom in due course.

Las Vegas (March 14, 2024) – After popular demand, we are excited to announce the return of the Box Fan Expo Invitational 2024, a USA Boxing amateur show that showcases some of the top-rated fighters in the US. The Invitational will be held under the same roof and during the  Box Fan Expo on Saturday May 4, 2024 at the Las Vegas Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Expo will also coincide with the mega fight between Canelo Alvarez vs Jaime Munguia, that will take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena.

The Invitational will start at 11am and will have 18 to 20 bouts during the Boxing Expo, so fans can enjoy these great amateur fights as part of their experience at the event. Once again, this year we are looking forward to having some of the top seeded amateur boxers display their skills as they compete in front of family, friends, and the whole boxing industry, including current and former world champions as well as some of the top boxing stars of today. 

Box Fan Expo Invitational 2024

Several highly-ranked and top fighters from the USA Boxing amateur program will receive a special invitation to take part at the Box Fan Expo Invitational 2024, to compete and have a chance to FACEOFF against the best in their division.

Past Box Fan Expo Invitational Participants 

The Box Fan Expo Amateur Invitational has been a huge success with some of the top amateurs in the US, that have participated in previous years. Many of these young talents have turned Professional and some have been signed with major boxing promoters, such as Micky Scala, Curmel Moton, (Mayweather Promotions), Floyd Diaz (Top Rank), the Barrientes Twins Chavez and Angel (PBC), Kaipo Gallegos (Shuan Boxing), Emiliano Vargas (Top Rank), Fernando jr. and Amado Vargas (Marvnation) and Ethan Smith just to name a few…

Who Will Watch? 

Thousands of boxing fans that will attend the Expo, as well as many boxing media outlets, family, friends, and more importantly a chance to showcase their skills in front of top boxing stars and boxing industry people that will attend the Expo.

What’s In It for Amateur Fighters?

Notoriety from top boxing companies present, thousands of boxing fans, media covering the event, as well as some of the top Boxing Celebrities who will be participating at this year’s Expo. In addition, bout winners will take home the Box Fan Expo Invitational 2024 Championship belt that was created to honor our young talented amateur fighters.

Helping a Great Cause

Barry’s Boxing Center is a non-profit organization, that was founded by Pat and Dawn Barry, with a mission to help the youth of the Las Vegas community, on their path of physical and moral excellence. Barry’s Boxing Center is an environment that exemplifies the values of hard work, and respect. It gives the youths a safe place to go during critical out-of-school hours. In affiliation and coordination with USA Boxing, Barry’s Boxing center persist and insist on promoting safety in boxing as well as the development and encouragement of young men and women in their pursuit of excellence in the sport of boxing both in and out of the ring.

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2024

?About Box Fan Expo

Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet the stars of boxing that represent the past, present and future of the sport. With hosted autograph signings, meet-and-greets with current and former boxing world champions, limited edition merchandise for sale, giveaways and more, this is the ultimate event for fans of the sport.

Past boxing stars that have participated include: Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Sugar Ray Leonard, Julio Cesar Chavez, Juan Manuel Marquez, Tommy Hearns, Roy Jones Jr, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, David Benavidez, Teofimo Lopez, Andre Ward, Ryan Garcia, Marcos Maidana, Devin Haney, Mikey Garcia, Errol Spence Jr, Fernando Vargas, Rolando Romero, Sergio Martinez, Tim Bradley, Jose Ramirez, Shawn Porter, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Abner Mares, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Floyd Mayweather sr., Claressa Shields, Vinny Paz, Mia St.John, Franchón Crews-Dezurn, Seniesa Estrada, Jorge Linares, Leo Santa Cruz, Badou Jack, Terry Norris, Riddick Bowe, Earnie Shavers, Michael & Leon Spinks, Brandon Rios, Anthony Dirrell, Danny Jacobs, and many more.

Exhibitors include boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry as a whole.

Throughout the next few weeks leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo.

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –

https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2024

To request information on exhibiting and sponsorship at the Expo:

For media credentials:

Contact us:

Telephone number: (702) 997-1927 or (514) 572-7222

For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com

More information on Box Fan Expo visit: http://www.boxfanexpo.com

Follow Box Fan Expo on Twitter and Instagram at: @BoxFanExpo

Follow Box Fan Expo on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/BoxFanExpo

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas (March 14, 2024) —The preeminent heavyweight prospect for Team USA now has a professional home. Ali Feliz, a Dominican-American dynamo from Danbury, Connecticut, who won gold at the U.S. Olympic Team Trials in December, has signed a multi-year promotional pact with Top Rank.
 
Feliz, who is managed by James Prince and co-promoted by Antonio Leonard, will make his pro debut in a four-round clash against an opponent to be named on Saturday, April 13 at American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas, on the ESPN+-streamed undercard of the Jared Anderson-Ryad Merhy heavyweight main event.
 
“Ali Feliz is one of the most gifted young heavyweights to turn pro in quite some time,” said Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum. “He has tremendous amateur and family pedigree, which will serve him well as he climbs the professional ranks.”
 
Feliz said, “This is very exciting. I’ve been waiting for this for a very long time. Since I was young, I dreamed of signing with a big promoter, and there’s nothing bigger than Top Rank. On this new journey, I want to build a path for the youth so they can follow in my footsteps. I’m excited and ready to get started on April 13. It will be fireworks. I’m going to be at 100 percent, and I’ll be ready to put on a show.”
 
Feliz will continue his family’s boxing legacy when he enters the paid ranks. His father and trainer, Fernely Sr., had a notable 15-year tenure as a heavyweight pro, and his older brother, Fernely Jr., is forging his own path as an unbeaten prospect in the same division. The 20-year-old competed in his first fight when he was only 12. He claimed four national titles during his amateur run and bested Steven Williams in the finals of the U.S. Olympic Team Trials.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas (March 14, 2024) — Tickets for the 10-round heavyweight showdown between unbeaten knockout artist Jared “The Real Big Baby” Anderson and Belgian contender Ryad Merhy — Saturday, April 13 at American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas — go on sale TOMORROW, March 15 at 12 p.m. CST via Ticketmaster.com.
 
Presale tickets are available now by CLICKING HERE.
 
The heavyweight co-feature is a battle of 2016 Olympians, as Nigerian puncher Efe Ajagba (19-1, 14 KOs) looks to take down Guido “The Gladiator” Vianello (12-1-1, 10 KOs).
 
The eight-round televised opener features three-time world title challenger Robson Conceicao (17-2-1, 8 KOs), as he looks to keep his junior lightweight world title hopes alive against the upset-minded Jose Guardado (15-1-1, 5 KOs).
 
Anderson-Merhy, Ajagba-Vianello and Conceição Guardado will be broadcast LIVE on ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Two of Corpus Christi’s finest fistic talents hope to impress the home fans on the ESPN+-streamed undercard, as welterweight John Rincon (8-0, 2 KOs) fights in a six-rounder and National Golden Gloves champion Julian Delgado makes his much-anticipated professional debut in a four-round middleweight contest.

Uncasville, CT (March 14, 2024) – Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing returns to the beautiful Mohegan Sun Arena on April 6, 2024, as top world rated light heavyweight RICHIE “POPEYE THE SAILOR MAN” RIVERA (E. Hartford, CT, 25-2 19KOs) makes his long-awaited return to Connecticut, against undefeated Nigerian, MATHEW “THE WISE MAN” OBINNA (Lagos, Nigeria, 23-0 23KOs), in a 10 round light heavyweight bout.

Rivera, a Connecticut son, has been an all-around notable athlete as far back as his pop warner days, playing football, baseball, basketball and having earned all-state honors as a swimmer in high school. His athleticism has translated to the boxing ring, being highly rated by all four major sanctioning bodies – #5 WBA, #7 WBC, #9 IBF and #14 WBO (Cruiserweight). Rivera is predicted to be the next star to grace the ring at Star Boxing’s “Slugfest at the Sun,” Star Boxing’s fan friendly series at Mohegan Sun has thrilled fans with former World Champions, Joe Smith Jr., Demetrius Andrade and Kali Reis (now star of hit HBO series True Detective), multi World Championship Challenger Delvin Rodriguez and numerous other notables.

Opposing Rivera is undefeated Nigerian Mathew Obinna, who has a perfect 100% KO ratio, having knocked out every man put in front of him in his professional career. Dubbed “The Wise Man” because his right hand has no problem teaching you a lesson, Obinna will be making his US debut in what is by far the biggest opportunity of his professional career.

Star Boxing CEO JOE DEGUARDIA had this to say about the Rivera-Obinna main event, “We are excited to be back at the beautiful Mohegan Sun on April 6 with this exciting fight card featuring Richie (Popeye) Rivera, our world rated light heavyweight. Popeye entertains in and out of the ring and the undefeated Mathew Obinna promises he will bring firepower against Popeye. Popeye is just steps away from a major title fight, and he aims to prove it against a fighter with a perfect KO ratio. Be sure to get tickets as you won’t want to miss this show!”

Tickets to “Slugfest at the Sun” are on sale now at www.StarBoxing.com and start at just $40. The night of fights will feature a fantastic card, including some of the best talent in the area. More information will be announced soon regarding the undercard.