Las Vegas – UFC^® returns to the APEX with an action-packed bout featuring No. 10 ranked flyweight contender Amanda Ribas against fan-favorite Rose Namajunas in the five-round main event. In addition,  Kurt Holobaugh and Trey Ogden square off in a pivotal lightweight showdown. 

UFC FIGHT NIGHT^®: RIBAS vs. NAMAJUNAS takes place Saturday, March 23 in Las Vegas and will be available on ESPN+ (English and Spanish) and ESPN. The prelims will air exclusively on ESPN+ at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT, followed by the main card airing on ESPN and ESPN+ 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT. 

UFC Apex VIP Experience packages are available via On Location, UFC’s Official VIP Experience Provider. Enjoy exclusive access with an official ticket package that includes premium seating, all-inclusive hospitality, in-seat beverage service, meet-and-greets with UFC octagon girls and more. Visit UFCVIP.com for more information.

Brazil’s Ribas (13-4, fighting out of Varginha, Minas Gerais, Brazil) looks to deliver a statement win in her first UFC main event. A judo and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt who isn’t shy about keeping it on the feet, Ribas has delivered impressive wins against Luana Pinheiro, Viviane Araújo, and Mackenzie Dern. The seasoned contender now aims to secure the biggest win of her career against a former champion in Namajunas.

Former UFC strawweight champion Namajunas (12-6, fighting out of Denver, Colo.) returns to action with intentions of proving that she’s still one of the best in the world. The Colorado-based fighter has entertained fans with her trademark wins against the likes of Zhang Weili (twice), Joanna J?drzejczyk (twice), and Jessica Andrade. Namajunas now aims to break into the flyweight rankings by defeating Ribas in impressive fashion.

Holobaugh (21-7, fighting out of Amite, Loui.) sets out to secure a fourth straight victory. The Louisiana native has seen a resurgence ever since joining the cast of The Ultimate Fighter season 31, where he finished all three of his opponents to win the show. Finishing his last four opponents inside two rounds, Holobaugh aims to keep the momentum going against Ogden.

Ogden (16-6 1 NC fighting out of Kansas City, Miss.) makes his first appearance of the new year. Competing inside the Octagon for a fourth time, his most notable win came was against rising star Daniel Zellhuber. He now intends to kickstart a successful 2024 by delivering a statement win against Holobaugh.

Additional bouts on the card include: 

• Billy Quarantillo (18-5, fighting out of Tampa, Fla.) looks to secure back to back wins as he takes on Gabriel Miranda (17-6, fighting out of Telemaco Borba, Parana, Brazil) at featherweight
• At heavyweight The Ultimate Fighter season 30 winner Mohammed Usman (11-2, fighting out of Auchi, Nigeria by way of Denver, Colo.)collides with undefeated Dana White’s Contender Series alumnus Mick Parkin (8-0, fighting out of Castletown, England)
• Ricardo Ramos (16-5, fighting out of Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil) is slated to take on Julian Erosa (28-12, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev., by way of Yakima, Wash.) at featherweight
• A bantamweight tilt pits England’s Davey Grant (15-7, fighting out of Bishop Auckland, County Durham, England) against The Ultimate Fighter season 31 finalist Cody Gibson (20-9, fighting out of San Luis Obispo, Calif.)
• Featherweights Jarno Errens (13-5-1, fighting out of Heerlen, the Netherlands) and Dana White’s Contender Series contract winner Steven Nguyen (9-1, fighting out of Wichita, Kan.) face off
• Dana White’s Contender Series prospects Edmen Shahbazyan (12-4, fighting out of Glendale, Calif.) and Dusko Todorovic (12-4, fighting out of Belgrade, Serbia) are scheduled for a middleweight tilt
• Versatile competitor Fernando Padilla (15-5, fighting out of Irvine, Calif. by way of Chihuahua, Mexico) welcomes Dana White’s Contender Series signee Luis Pajuelo (8-1, fighting out of Lima, Peru) to the UFC’s 145-pound division
• Heavyweight sluggers Karl Williams (9-1, fighting out of Gwinnet, Georgia, by way of St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands) and Junior Tafa (5-1, fighting out of Brisbane, Australia) are scheduled for three five-minute rounds
• Montserrat Rendon (6-0, fighting out of Cancun, Mexico) aims to stay perfect as she collides with UFC newcomer Dariya Zgeleznykova (8-1, fighting out of St. Petersburg, Russia) at bantamweight

For the latest information on additional bouts for this event, please visit www.ufc.com. All bouts are live and subject to change. Please click?here?to apply for the event. 

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About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 700 million fans and 259 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world while broadcasting to over 900 million TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 80 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS^®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is part of TKO Group Holdings (NYSE: TKO) and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC and @UFC on X, Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok: @UFC.

About ESPN+ 

https://espnpressroom.com/us/espnplus/

About ESPN 

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

LAS VEGAS – January 30, 2024 – Pre-sale tickets will be available beginning tomorrow at 10 a.m. PT for the stacked inaugural four-fight PBC Pay-Per-View available on Prime Video topped by two-time world champion Keith “One Time” Thurman dueling rising star and reigning world champion Tim Tszyu in the main event plus 140-pound world champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero and Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz meeting in the co-main event on Saturday, March 30 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

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Pre-sale tickets are available tomorrow, Wednesday, January 31 from 10 a.m. PT until 10 p.m. PT through AXS.com by using the code: PBC

Public on-sale begins Thursday, February 1 at 10 a.m. PT with tickets available through AXS.com.

The pay-per-view will also see Cuban star and reigning WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara defend his belt against No. 1 rated mandatory challenger Michael Zerafa, plus all-action super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora will meet fast-charging contender Serhii Bohachuk in the pay-per-view opener.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. The main event is promoted in association with No Limit Boxing.

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For more information visit www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #ThurmanTszyu 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

BROOKLYN, NY (January 30, 2024) – Overtime, builder of disruptive new sports leagues, announced today the return of OTX (Overtime Boxing). In Year 2, OTX will host eight fight nights globally starting with: 

• March 29: OTE Arena, Atlanta 
• April 19: OTE Arena, Atlanta
• May 31: Red Owl Boxing, Houston 
• June 28: OTE Arena, Atlanta 

Returning sponsors include DAZN, as OTX’s media rights partner, and Nutrabolt, owner of C4 Energy®, one of the fastest-growing energy drink brands in the United States, as its beverage sponsor. With explosive energy and enhanced endurance to elevate performance, C4 Performance Energy® fuels sport and fitness lifestyles with Energy That Hits, especially in the ring. 

For the first time, as part of OTX’s partnership with DAZN, all fights will be distributed not just on the DAZN app, but streamed on DAZN’s social media channels and Overtime’s social media channels. This innovative approach increases access in a sport that often has barriers to bringing in new fans, with limited availability to watch the fights without a paid subscription. 

“OTX is all about action-packed boxing, developing the next generation of stars while creating a fresh fan experience for boxing fans,” said Brandon Rhodes, GM of OTX. “We do this by creating an interactive distribution approach, bringing the broadcast to them and storytelling the Overtime way.” 

“We are excited to be working with Overtime again building on an excellent first year in the sport,” said Alfie Sharman, VP of Marketing at DAZN. “Overtime and DAZN are a natural fit, both disruptors in the market and both looking to push the boundaries of sport and entertainment.”

OTX will sign ten fighters to multi-year deals which include guaranteed fights, storytelling, social coverage, and brand sponsorship opportunities. Additionally, Overtime is also introducing a new 154 Ib (8)-fighter single-elimination OTX Tournament that will kick off on April 19. The final two fighters will compete for an OTX promotional contract and an OTX Title. There will also be a cash prize for the winner.

“We want to empower the next generation of fighters to chase their dreams and OTX provides them with the platform to do so,” said Britton Hardin, Senior Director of Fighter Operations of OTX. “We’re about being additive to the sport’s ecosystem through storytelling, action-packed boxing and genuinely cultivating an impactful connection between the fighters and the next generation of fans. 

“Performance is our game, and there’s no better way to embody Energy That Hits than in the boxing ring,” says Robert Zajac, Chief Marketing Officer at Nutrabolt. “We are so thrilled for C4 Energy to show up at the OTX Arena for the second year and to deeply connect with the next generation of boxing stars and fans.”

Year 1 of OTX featured unforgettable moments from fighters like Elijah Pierce, Albert Bell, and Kurt Scoby, creating a vibrant atmosphere akin to a nightclub with VIP sections and DJ sets. Innovations included: 

• Smaller Ring: The 18x18ft ring is smaller than a typical major fight providing a close proximity of fighters and more action during the fight 
• KO Bonuses: If a fighter gets a KO at any point in the fight, they are entitled to a bonus
• Money Round: The first and last rounds serve as the “Money Round” where fighters receive a more lucrative bonus compared to a general KO 
• Overtime Round: If there was a draw after the regularly scheduled rounds, there was an additional winner take all round 

The success of OTX was reflected in its staggering growth on social media, becoming the #1 fastest growing US Sports Media account across Instagram and TikTok, with over 1 billion views in just six months. 

About Overtime

Overtime builds disruptive new sports leagues and IP aimed globally at the next generation of sports fans and athletes. Overtime owns and operates, OTE and Overtime Select in basketball, OT7 in football and OTX in boxing, and leverages digital-first content across its network of accounts engaging its community of nearly 100 million fans and followers. Overtime’s business model is driven by sponsorships, brand relationships, e-commerce, licensing and media rights. 

Overtime is funded by top VC firms, industry leaders, and athletes, including Liberty Media Corporation, Andreessen Horowitz, Counterpoint Global (Morgan Stanley), Sapphire Sport, Winslow Capital, Bezos Expeditions, Spark Capital, Micromanagement Ventures (the family of the late David Stern), Black Capital, Blackstone Strategic Partners, Alexis Ohanian, Drake, Quavo and 40+ NBA and NFL stars including Carmelo Anthony, Kevin Durant and Trae Young. Over 6% of active NBA players have invested in Overtime. The company is led by CEO and Co-Founder Dan Porter, an innovative thought leader with 30+ years of experience in mobile gaming, education, media and marketplaces. 

About DAZN

DAZN is a leading digital sports platform in Italy, Spain, Germany, Belgium, Portugal, Japan, Canada, US and the UK.  Its wide range of exclusive content includes top-flight football from the world’s most popular competitions – Bundesliga, English Premier League, J.League, LaLiga, Serie A, and the UEFA Champions League, in addition to the biggest sports from around the world – Formula 1, NFL, NBA, MotoGP and the UFC.  DAZN is a global home for boxing and combat sports through its partnerships with Matchroom Boxing the Professional Fighters League, and a global home for Women’s Football with UEFA Women’s Champions League and Finetwork Liga F.  DAZN is adding more and more sport to its platform to create a destination for sports fans. 

DAZN is reimagining the way people enjoy sport. With a single, frictionless platform, sports fans can watch, bet, play, share, socialise, and buy tickets, NFTs and merchandise. Live and on-demand sports content, anywhere, in any language, on any device – only on DAZN.?

DAZN is a global, privately-owned company with employees in over 25 countries. For more information on DAZN, our products, people, and performance, visit?www.dazngroup.com.? 

About Nutrabolt

Nutrabolt is a fast-growing, global active health and wellness company with a portfolio of market leading performance-oriented brands that energize and fuel active lifestyles. The company’s disruptive and innovative products compete in the Functional Beverage and Active Nutrition segments, under three consumer-loved brands: C4® (one of the fastest-growing energy drink brands in the United States and the #1 selling global pre-workout brand), XTEND® (the #1 post-workout recovery brand in the United States), and Cellucor® (an award-winning sports nutrition brand created in 2002).

Since its founding 20 years ago, Nutrabolt has set out to meet the discerning needs of performance athletes and fitness enthusiasts, while appealing beyond this core group to include consumers around the globe who are making healthy, active living a daily priority.

Nutrabolt’s portfolio, which is distributed in over 125 countries, is sold through company-owned DTC platforms, Amazon, and other third-party e-commerce marketplaces, and is available at leading retailers across the U.S., including Walmart, Target, 7-Eleven, Walgreens, Kroger, H-E-B, Wawa, Publix, GNC, and the Vitamin Shoppe. For more information about Nutrabolt, please visit www.nutrabolt.com.

GLENDALE, Ariz. (Jan. 30, 2024) — A historic doubleheader awaits, as a former two-division world champion will make his ring return in familiar territory and an undisputed four-belt queen will be crowned for the first time in the minimumweight division. 

Mexican warrior Oscar Valdez will face Australian former world title challenger Liam Wilson in a special 10-round junior lightweight attraction on Friday, March 29 at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona. Valdez, making his seventh appearance in the Grand Canyon State, joins Wilson in seeking redemption in the arena that hosted their last defeats. 

In the co-feature, WBC/WBA/Ring Magazine champion Seniesa “Super Bad” Estrada and WBO/IBF ruler Yokasta Valle collide in a highly anticipated showdown for the undisputed minimumweight crown. The prolonged war of words between the two world champs will culminate in a milestone 12-round fight presented in association with Golden Boy Promotions and MarvNation Promotions. 

Valdez-Wilson & Estrada-Valle headline a stacked card streaming live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with No Limit Boxing, tickets go on sale Friday, Feb. 2 at 10 a.m. MST via Ticketmaster.com.

“The Arizona fight fans are passionate and knowledgeable, and we have an incredible event in store at Desert Diamond Arena,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Oscar Valdez is the consummate Mexican fighter, and he is facing a skilled, all-action Aussie in Liam Wilson. The undisputed title fight featuring two of the sport’s most skilled women is main event-worthy as well. There is no love lost between Seniesa and Yokasta, a long-standing rivalry that promises to deliver in the ring.”

Valdez (31-2, 23 KOs), the fighting pride of Nogales, represented his country at the 2008 and 2012 Olympics. As a pro, he won world titles in two weight classes, defeating Matias Rueda to capture the WBO featherweight title in 2016 and knocking out Miguel Berchelt in February 2021 to earn the WBC junior lightweight strap. After a competitive fight against Olympic gold medalist Robson Conceição later that year, Valdez suffered his first pro loss in a unification battle against Shakur Stevenson in April 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 at Desert Diamond Arena last August. 

Valdez said, “This fight against Liam Wilson means everything to me. It’s every boxer’s dream to become a world champion, so I have to get past this challenge so I can fight for a world title again. I respect Liam Wilson, but in the ring, I’m going to do everything possible to walk away victorious.”

Wilson (13-2, 7 KOs) is a five-year pro who went 9-0 before his first defeat against Joe Noynay in July 2021. He avenged the loss by knocking out Noynay in March 2022. Three months later, he delivered Rueda his first setback since the Valdez encounter. Wilson then made his U.S. debut versus Navarrete for the vacant WBO junior lightweight title last February at Desert Diamond Arena. 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 in August and Jackson Jon England in December. 

Wilson said, “Valdez is exactly the fight I wanted and deserve after what I went through against Navarrete. The history books show that he beat both of us last year, but this time around we won’t need the officials. Valdez is a good fighter, a tough man, but after what I’ve been through already and what I plan on bringing, I believe he’s going to regret taking this fight.”

Estrada (25-0, 9 KOs), a world-class fighter across three weight divisions, claimed an interim flyweight title against Olympic bronze medalist Marlen Esparza in a 2019 bout that was contested with 10 three-minute rounds. Two years later, she secured the WBA minimumweight and WBO light flyweight belts, defeating Anabel Ortiz and Tenkai Tsunami. Estrada vacated her light flyweight title to pursue undisputed glory at minimumweight. She signed with Top Rank in 2022, and following an 11-month layoff, 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.

“Yokasta is not on my level and undeservingly carried those belts for too long,” Estrada said. “Yokasta, her promoter, and her trainer have had a lot to say. On March 29, I’m going to shut them all up. I’m leaving Arizona with all the belts and will continue to prove why I’m a pound-for-pound champion.”

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

Valle said, “I am over the moon that Seniesa finally said yes to this big fight. In reality, she had no other option because we chased after her so much. She had no alternative but to face me because the great fans of this sport demanded this fight. Boxing fans can expect a great fight. Once I get into the ring, I am going to give the performance of a lifetime.”

The undercard will feature a host of unbeaten contenders and rising prospects, five of whom made appearances at Desert Diamond Arena last year.

Lightweight contender Raymond “Danger” Muratalla (19-0, 16 KOs) will fight Argentina’s Agustin Ezequiel Quintana (19-2-1, 13 KOs) in a 10-rounder. A seven-year pro, Muratalla put the division on notice last year with three stellar performances. He stopped Humberto Galindo with a body shot in March, handed Jeremia Nakathila his first TKO loss in May, and stopped then-unbeaten Diego Torres in eight rounds in November.

U.S. Olympic silver medalist Richard Torrez Jr. (8-0, 8 KOs) will look to retain his 100 percent knockout ratio in a scheduled eight-round tilt against Don Haynesworth (18-8-1, 16 KOs). The rising heavyweight earned first-round stoppage victories over James Bryant in February and Willie Jake Jr. in August and a second-round TKO over Tyrrell Anthony Herndon in October. Torrez vanquished veteran Curtis Harper via eighth-round TKO in December. 

Lightweight prodigy Emiliano Fernando Vargas (8-0, 7 KOs), the youngest son of former world champion Fernando Vargas, will lock horns with Nelson Hampton (10-8, 6 KOs) in a six-rounder. Vargas went 6-0 with five knockouts last year, including a second-round knockout against Brandon Mendoza in November.

Phoenix native Sergio Rodriguez (10-0-1, 8 KOs) will take on Sanny Duversonne (12-6-2, 9 KOs) in a six-round middleweight contest. 

Ricardo Ruvalcaba (11-0-1, 9 KOs) will see action in a six-round junior welterweight fight.

SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO – January 30, 2024 – Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) today announced international superstar Jake “El Gallo de Dorado” Paul (8-1, 5 KOs) will face professional boxer Ryan “The Rhino” Bourland (17-2, 6 KOs) on Saturday, March 2, 2024 at the legendary Coliseo de Puerto Rico in San Juan, Puerto Rico as Paul continues to face more experienced opponents on the path to becoming a world champion. Paul vs. Bourland, an 8-round cruiserweight fight, will be the co-main event alongside Amanda “The Real Deal” Serrano (46-2-1, 30 KOs) vs. Nina Meinke (18-3, 4 KOs), presented by CELSIUS Live Fit. Essential Energy, which marks Amanda Serrano’s first fight in Puerto Rico since becoming the island’s first undisputed world boxing champion, male or female. Bourland, Paul’s toughest match to date, brings years of experience and success to the ring against Paul in his 20th professional bout with more wins and knockouts than any of Paul’s previous opponents. Serrano vs. Meinke, featuring Paul vs. Bourland, will be offered as part of the DAZN subscription package to ensure it is affordable and accessible to fans worldwide, with Jake Paul also set to donate his full fight purse to his nonprofit, Boxing Bullies, to renovate youth boxing gyms across Puerto Rico. Tickets are now on sale at Ticketera.com.

Paul vs. Bourland will mark Paul’s first entrance into the ring this year following his most impressive performance to date on Friday, December 15, in which he secured a viral, first round knockout of three-time Golden Glove winner Andre August for his ninth professional win. Paul showed tremendous growth as a boxer on his path to becoming a world champion and added another highlight to his already impressive reel. Since turning pro in 2020, Paul has collected multiple accolades for his commitment to the sport of boxing, including ESPNRingside’s 2021 Knockout of the Year, Sports Illustrated’s 2021 Breakout Boxer of the Year, ESPNRingside’s 2022 Viral Moment of the Year, and was the cover of Sports Illustrated’s “The 50 Most Influential Figures in Sports” issue, awarded specifically for his groundbreaking work to revolutionize the sport through equitable pay, providing a platform for young fighters, and his support of female boxers. Paul also recently announced a partnership with USA Boxing ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics, continuing his mission to elevate the sport and its future champions.

Paul also continued his record-breaking streak in his latest fight by achieving the highest recorded gate for a boxing event in Orlando’s history. Paul vs. August also broke the record for highest average ticket price, matching the average ticket price of Paul’s latest fight vs. Nate Diaz at the American Airlines Center in Dallas. The upcoming Serrano vs. Meinke and Paul vs. Bourland event is expected to be yet another record-shattering night for Paul, Serrano, and Most Valuable Promotions.

“I’ve always said my goal is to become a world champion. I beat a pro boxer in December in the first round, someone who’s been boxing their entire life, and what did I do next? I went straight back to camp to get ready to face my next opponent, a professional boxer who has twice as many professional fights under his belt than I do,” said Jake Paul. “It’s a new year, it’s an even better me, and I’m facing an even more experienced, seasoned boxer on Saturday, March 2 as co-main to the Puerto Rican GOAT, Amanda Serrano. I’m fighting for experience, not for the money, and to show my love for this beautiful island I’ll be donating my entire fight purse from this event to my nonprofit Boxing Bullies to help renovate gyms across Puerto Rico.”

Ryan “Rhino” Bourland, born June 17, 1988 has a professional boxing record of 17-2-0 (6 KO). He grew up in Vallejo, California where he started learning how to box in the sixth grade. Ryan had over 15 amateur bouts, was a Golden Gloves Champion and fought in the National Junior Olympics. Ryan’s professional boxing record began at age 25. Ryan was recognized as Northern California’s Fighter of the year by Inside The Ropes Boxing in 2016. In 2018 Ryan won the regional light heavyweight GBO title in his fight against Jose Hernandez II. Throughout Ryan’s career he has always given back to the community by coaching boxing to local youth and adults. Ryan was featured sparring in the movie “Pride Jewel” (2022). Bourland comes to the ring vs. Paul off a three-fight winning streak, including his latest bout against Santario Martin, which Bourland ended with a decisive fifth round knockout. Martin previously went the distance with Paul’s last opponent, Andre August. At 17-2 with six KO’s, Bourland has proven his tenacity and skill in the ring. With just two losses in his professional career, Bourland is a determined and steady fighter and is Paul’s toughest opponent to date. 

“Jake Paul steps into the ring with his social media clout, but let’s not mistake followers for experience or skill,” said Ryan Bourland. “While he’s been busy chasing likes, I’ve been honing my craft for years, stepping into the ring and beating real boxers. On Saturday, March 2 I will shock the world and put an end to Jake Paul’s boxing career.”

“Jake Paul has broken record after record and in this fight, he’s once again showing what a tremendous person he is as well,” said Nakisa Bidarian, co-founder of MVP. “Not only is Jake taking on yet another more experienced professional boxer in Ryan Bourland, but he’s also supporting Amanda Serrano as she headlines this historic event at the legendary Coliseo de Puerto Rico, demonstrating his and MVP’s commitment to equality in the sport. I applaud Jake’s continued commitment to giving back to the youth after he announced he is donating his entire purse from this fight to Boxing Bullies so the organization can continue their mission of renovating boxing gyms to give boys and girls a positive environment to learn. The world continues to watch Jake, and he continues to deliver. Thank you to DAZN for working with us to make this event available to fans around the world and to Celsius for their continued support and partnership. Serrano vs. Meinke featuring Paul vs. Bourland is going to be historic and we can’t wait to bring this amazing card to Puerto Rico.”

Also featured on the Serrano vs. Meinke and Paul vs. Bourland card on Saturday, March 2 will be Javon “Wanna” Walton, who will make his highly-anticipated global debut as MVP’s latest signee, WBO junior flyweight world champion Jonathan “Bomba” Gonzalez (27-3-1, 14 KOs) vs. fellow Puerto Rican talent Rene Santiago (12-3, 9 KOs), and finally in a battle of Puerto Rico vs. Mexico, the young, super flyweight sensation Kystal Roado (2-0, 1 KO), is set to face 5-0 Gloria Munguilla in the toughest test yet of her career. Rosado’s fight will be 4 x 3:00, following Amanda’s lead of fighting 3 minute rounds. The event marks Amanda Serrano’s first fight in Puerto Rico since becoming undisputed champion, with a sellout crowd expected to honor her as Puerto Rico’s first-ever undisputed world boxing champion, male or female. Serrano will fight for the second time at 12×3, the men’s championship standard, in defense of her unified IBF, WBO, WBA, IBO, and Ring Magazine featherweight world titles. In a true commitment to change for women’s boxing, Serrano recently vacated her WBC title, as the sanctioning body does not support women’s choice for 12×3.

Serrano vs. Meinke is MVP’s latest women’s championship fight as the company works to establish equity across the sport. The bout follows Amanda Serrano’s first-ever 12×3 unified championship fight in October and the Shadasia “The Sweet Terminator” Green vs. Franchón Crews-Dezurn WBC super middleweight and WBA Interim world title bout in December. 

Serrano vs. Meinke will air live globally on DAZN. Spartan Boxing INC. will serve as the official licensed promoter of Serrano vs. Meinke. This event is sponsored by CELSIUS Live Fit Essential Energy. For more information, follow on Twitter via @JakePaul, @MostVPromotions, and @DAZNBoxing or on Instagram via @JakePaul, @rhino707, @MostValuablePromotions, and @DAZNBoxing.

How to watch DAZN 

• Visit DAZN.com and follow the steps to sign up now
• Once signed up, download the DAZN app to watch on any device
• Go to the app store on your chosen device, search ‘DAZN’ and download the DAZN app  
• DAZN is available on your phone, tablet, smart TV, streaming devices such as Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, and gaming consoles. 
• Connect multiple devices to your account to watch at home or on the go  

About Most Valuable Promotions (MVP)

Most Valuable Promotions was founded by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian in 2021. With the mission to provide more creative control to fighters, MVP works to identify, grow, and maximize return for its own events and talent partners. One year into its inception, MVP was nominated as one of the prestigious Sports Breakthroughs of the Year in 2022 by Sports Business Journal. MVP have produced Jake Paul’s last five global pay-per-view events, including the recent Paul vs. Diaz match. The promotion company also signed one of the most decorated Hispanic athletes of all time, Amanda Serrano in its first year. Serrano and MVP made history in April of 2022 when Serrano went head to head with Katie Taylor, marking the first female fight to headline at Madison Square Garden, recently earning a nomination for Event of The Year by Sports Business Journal. Co-founder Nakisa Bidarian was an executive producer of the historic Triller Presents Mike Tyson v. Roy Jones Jr., which was the 8th most bought pay-per-view event in history.

About DAZN

DAZN is a leading digital sports platform in Italy, Spain, Germany, Belgium, Portugal, Japan, Canada, US and the UK.? Its wide range of exclusive content includes top-flight football from the world’s most popular competitions – Bundesliga, English Premier League, J.League, LaLiga, Serie A, and the UEFA Champions League, in addition to the biggest sports from around the world – Formula 1, NFL, NBA, MotoGP and the UFC.? 

DAZN is the NFL’s global partner and, from the 2023 season, will be the only place for fans around the world to watch every NFL match through the NFL Game Pass International add-on subscription. DAZN is a global home for boxing and combat sports through its partnerships with Matchroom Boxing the Professional Fighters League, and a global home for Women’s Football with UEFA Women’s Champions League and Finetwork Liga F.? DAZN is adding more and more sport to its platform to create a destination for sports fans.?

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Huntington, New York (January 29, 2024) – After a year of complete Rockin’ Fights sellouts, Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing returns to the hallowed ground of The Paramount in 2024 with another exciting fight card on Friday, February 23, 2024. The event marks the 46th edition of the critically acclaimed “Rockin’ Fights” series, with an additional three “Rockin’ Fights” already announced for the remainder of 2024 (May 11, Sept 14 & Nov 23).

Tickets “Rockin’ Fights” 46 on February 23 are available HERE. Tickets for the additional “Rockin’ Fights” 2024 dates are available HERE.

Haitian born, Huntington Long Island based fan favorite, WENDY “HAITIAN FIRE” TOUSSAINT (15-2 8KOs) aims to continue his momentum by defending his WBA Continental USA Super Welterweight Title for the first time against Egyptian born, Canadian based, “THE EGYPTIAN PRINCE” MPONDU KALUNGA (11-2 3KOs) in the 10 round main event. Toussaint won the vacant title with his impressive victory at Star Boxings “Rockin’ Fights” 45 in October, displaying a vicious attack with three knockdowns of opponent, Jermone Jones, on his way to securing the title via a third round TKO. This will be Toussaint’s eleventh appearance at The Paramount, and his first as a main featured bout.

Toussaint had this to say about the opportunity, “As February 23rd approaches, my fists tighten, carrying the weight of countless hours in the gym and the fire of determination. This isn’t just a fight, it’s a declaration. I defend my belt with the power of readiness, a culmination of hard work, sacrifice, and an unrelenting spirit. Get ready for a showcase of resilience and victory.” 

Kalunga is not shying away from the opportunity, “I’ve been working for this moment my whole life. I will do whatever it takes to win. I look forward to earning the victory. Thanks to my team at United Boxing Promotions and Grants MMA and Boxing Gym for being in my corner. Let’s GO!”

In the other featured title bout, #9 (WBC) and #14 (WBA) world rated cruiserweight “THE ITALIAN TANK” SIMONE FEDERICI (20-2-1 8KOs) defends his WBC Continental America’s Title in a 10-round bout against former IBO World Champion, BLAKE “IL CAPO” CAPARELLO (31-4-1 14KO’s) of Victoria, Australia. With Federici now a top 10 rated cruiserweight in the world, a victory puts him within touching distance of a world title challenge opportunity. Caparello hopes to snatch Federici’s rating with a win, positioning himself for another world title run himself. With names like Sergey Kovalev, Andre Dirrell and Isaac Chilemba on his resume, Federici is yet another top fighter that Caparello will fearlessly trade leather with. The implications involved in this fight are career altering for both international fighters.

Federici and Caparello offered their thoughts ahead of their upcoming pivotal cruiserweight bout:

Simone Federici: “I’m really happy to be fighting in America again and defending my WBC Continental America’s Championship at The Paramount in New York. I have been training with my uncle Franco Federici, since the age of 6 to achieve my dream of winning a world title. It is with great satisfaction that I dedicate this title fight to my family and my wife who have always believed in me. I also owe the results and my number 9 world rating by the WBC to my promoter Joe DeGuardia, of Star Boxing, who gave me the opportunity to make myself known and fight in America. I also want to thank some people who have been fundamental in this journey; my manager Luigi Camputaro, my intermediary Armando Belotti and my coach Franco Federici who have supported me all these years and will once again be by my side in this climb to a world championship.”

Blake Caparello: “I’m excited at the prospect of challenging a world-ranked opponent on a Star Boxing card. I’m eager to showcase the changes I’ve implemented in my boxing game and reclaim my position amongst the best in the division. I’d like to thank Joe and the team at Star Boxing for this fantastic opportunity!”

On the undercard, DANNY “EL GALLO” GONZALEZ (20-4-1 7KOs) of Queens, New York, returns to action after being sidelined with a torn left bicep for the past eight months. Opposing Gonzalez in the 8 round super welterweight bout will be KEANE “ICE MAN” MCMAHON (7-3 4KOs) of Dublin, Ireland. Gonzalez has the third most wins in “Rockin’ Fights” series history with 11 victories, only trailing Cletus Seldin (17 wins) and Anthony Karperis (17 wins). Gonzalez-McMahon was previously scheduled for “Rockin’ Fights” 44 on May 13, 2023, but due to Gonzalez’s injury the fight had to be postponed. Both men are anxious for their fight on February 23 at “Rockin’ Fights” 46.

“We are excited to be back at our home, The Paramount, on February 23 with thrilling action fights,” said Hall of Fame promoter, JOE DEGUARDIA. “The February 23 show has two exciting, featured bouts with fighters that are one or two fights away from major bouts should they impress in their respective fights. Whatever the future holds, fans will be treated to another thrilling fight night at the Paramount. If you have been to a “Rockin’ Fights” before, you know you’re in for a treat. If not, you should join us February 23rd.”

Star Boxing “Rockin’ Fights” announced its 2024 Paramount dates (Feb 23, May 11, Sept 14 & Nov 23). TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW for all four 2024 events HERE. 

NEW YORK (January 29, 2024) DiBella Entertainment has expanded its impressive stable of female bantamweights with the signing of undefeated WBA Bantamweight World Champion Nina Hughes. Hughes, who hails from Billericay, Essex, England, was the fastest ever British professional boxer to win a world title when she captured the WBA strap in just her fifth fight.

In November 2022, at 40 years old, Hughes, now 6-0 (2 KOs), took a chance, and traveled to Dubai to face the previously undefeated Jamie Mitchell, 9-1-2 (5 KOs).

“People dismissed me because of my age,” said Hughes. “They laughed at me.”

Hughes was undeterred. Using a consistent jab and getting the better of the exchanges, she won a 10-round unanimous decision against Mitchell, cementing her status as the WBA champion at 118 pounds.

The doubters didn’t consider her extensive and successful amateur career, one that began at 25 years old when she stepped foot into Chadwell St. Mary Amateur Boxing Club in Essex. She had stopped in for a boxercise class, with the intention of getting in shape. She so enjoyed it that her coach convinced her to try one amateur fight. She won her fight and was hooked.

She would go on to travel the world, representing her home country in numerous international tournaments, engaging in more than 70 amateur fights. It was a career that would be put on hold after a heartbreaking loss to Nicola Adams in the 2012 Olympic trials.

Hughes took some time off to start a family. Now a single mother of two sons, she relishes the opportunity to show them how hard work and dedication can pay off.

“My oldest son, Leo, carries the belt to the ring with me,” said Hughes. “He would carry the Commonwealth title I won in my third fight and now he carries my WBA belt.”

Her younger son is still getting acquainted with the sweet science but sometimes accompanies his mother to the gym. Both boys look up to their mom and she fights for them.

“My kids push me,” said Hughes. “I want to succeed for them. I want them to see me keep winning, and see the determination that pushes me on. I promise them a trip to the toy shop every time I win, so I can’t be losing.”

After her first son was born, Hughes returned to boxing to get back into shape post-pregnancy. To help give her extra motivation, she planned to fight in one more amateur bout. However, she wouldn’t stop at just one, competing in the amateur circuit for several more years.

She made her professional debut in December 2021, winning a decision against a far more experienced professional in Klaudia Ferenczi, a veteran of 114 fights. Hughes has been trained by Kevin Lilley, out of Newlands Gym in Essex, since her pro debut. She has also recently signed with manager Leon Sudbury.

One of Hughes’ keys to success is the support around her. Working part time as a legal secretary, mostly from home, Hughes has been able to get training in during her lunch break, with the approval of her employers who traveled to Dubai to see her win her world title. Hughes’ parents also play a pivotal role in helping with her children.

On June 10, 2023, Hughes made the first defense of her WBA title, winning a near-shutout 10-round unanimous decision against Katie Healy at Wembley Arena in England.

“I’m really excited to carry on my journey with DiBella Entertainment,” said Hughes of the signing. “I can’t wait to get back in the ring. I want to become the unified world champion and then become undisputed.”

“I’m thrilled to have Nina join our stable,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “She’s a great lady, and I’m proud to promote another resilient single mom who never quit on her dream.

“This is such a stacked division, and we have several bantamweights on the DiBella roster,” DiBella continued. “We’re going to get Nina busy and fighting. There are so many good fights to make at this weight, and I’m excited to work with Nina, Leon and Kevin.”

The DiBella Entertainment stable includes some of the top talent in the women’s bantamweight division. IBF World Champion Miyo Yoshida, IBO World Champion Amanda Galle, IBF #1 mandatory contender Shurretta Metcalf, and top Australian fighter Cherneka Johnson, a former world champion, all count themselves among DiBella’s roster of talented women.   

Yoshida, Metcalf and long-time DBE fighter Heather Hardy are also single mothers. Hardy fights for her daughter Annie’s college tuition, Metcalf is raising two sons, one with autism, and the world saw Yoshida share her world title victory with her

LOS ANGELES (January 29, 2024)– Wise Owl Boxing is pleased to announce additional services to professional boxers under it’s management platform.

The company, headed by Mark Habibi, is looking to not only sign and expand its growing roster, but provide many supplemental and business services both inside and outside the ring.

“I want to set Wise Owl Boxing apart from the competition. Our goal is to provide our fighters with a full-service management platform and to provide them the best representation available so they excel both inside AND outside of the ring. We care about our fighters and want to make sure they have all the resources available they need to set them up for success”.

Wise Owl has a two-part strategy to increase its presence in boxing management

The first involves collaborating with other managers to form alliances and create synergies. The second involves forming alliances with strategic partners/investors to create a full-service management team of preferred vendors/contractors that can assist the fighter with all their affairs outside of the ring.

Wise Owl is currently involved in the co-management of some fighters while it’s exclusively managing others.

The company believes that by being open to co-managing fighters, it allows more options for the fighters, thus creating more opportunities. “Joining forces is something I absolutely welcome. If there’s an opportunity to get involved with a great fighter I’m all about it. It’s all about energy. If the energy is right then the synergy could be tremendous and the fighter will benefit,” continued Habibi.

Wise Owl is also actively forming alliances with strategic partners/investors who will become preferred vendors/contractors of Wise Owl Boxing and will create a complete management team that can assist with all aspects of the fighter’s life.

These alliances range from attorneys, accountants, insurance agents, doctors, real estate agents, financial advisors, publicists, photographers, videographers, brand/marketing specialists, commercial/media agents, etc. These preferred vendors/contractors will be available to the fighters to provide advice and guidance. Fighters have no commitment to hire any of these consultants, but these consultants will be available upon request.

“The goal is to provide a full-service management team that can help the boxer from A-Z and provide assistance with just about anything. I don’t think any of the other managers out there are doing this and I want to go above and beyond for my guys”.

Wise Owl Boxing currently manages the careers of WBC ranked #1 super welterweight Charles Conwell, former world title contender Brandon Adams, DeAngelo Evans and Javon Woodard Jr.

By Norm Frauenheim –

PHOENIX – Oscar De La Hoya wants Jaime Munguia to fight Canelo Alvarez in September instead of May.

Before Munguia fought his way into the Canelo lottery Saturday night with a four-knockdown TKO of John Ryder, it was believed that Munguia was a possibility for Canelo’s projected return on May 4.

“Munguia-Canelo in September is the fight to make,’’ De La Hoya said about an hour after Ryder’s corner threw in the towel at 1:25 of the ninth round in front of roaring crowd of more than 10,000 at Footprint Center.

Canelo, the undisputed super-middleweight champion, might already have other plans for May, according to De La Hoya.

“I think Canelo could fight Jermall Charlo in May,’’ the Golden Boy promoter said.

It’s not clear where that leaves David Benavidez, who the World Boxing Council designated as its mandatory challenger to the WBC piece of Canelo’s title at its convention in Uzbekistan in November.

Benavidez, a former two-time WBC champion, has been calling out Canelo for a couple years. De La Hoya again said that Benavidez deserved a shot Saturday night.

But Munguia has joined the Canelo hunt. He’s another option. It’s not clear whether Benavidez’ mandatory status puts him at the front of the line.

“Networks make the mandatories,’’ Benavidez promoter/manager Sampson Lewkowicz said Saturday after his flyweight, Gabriela Fundora, retained the International Boxing Federation women’s title with TKO of Christina Cruz on the DAZN-streamed show.

Canelo is one of boxing’s few network stars. Follow the money, the only mandatory.

Benavidez, who grew up in Phoenix and began boxing at a gym – Central – just a few blocks from Footprint, got an invite to Saturday’s fight from De La Hoya De La Hoya he texted him Thursday.

But Benavidez wasn’t there for Munguia’s beatdown of the tough, smart Ryder. Munguia made a statement. So did Benavidez, who De La Hoya said was in Guadalajara, Canelo’s hometown. Benavidez showed up only on Instagram.

Above a photo of Munguia, he posted, after the fight: This a easy knock out. That’s why they ducked me. The message included three laughing emojis.

Meanwhile, social media was full of talk that Munguia might fight Edgar Berlanga next. But Munguia wasn’t sure when he’ll fight. Who he’ll fight.

“It would be an honor,’’ he said, to fight Canelo.

First, however, he said he would have to heal from a cut above his left eye.

Then, he’d go back to work at Wild Card with

his new trainer, Hall-of-Famer Freddie Roach.

“I keep hearing all of this talk about who’s next. Whatever,’’ said Roach, who predicted Munguia would win by TKO in the eighth. “We’ll head back to the gym and work hard.

“Whoever is next, he’s in trouble.’’

Los Angeles, CA (January 28, 2024) Undefeated Rising Star Omar Trinidad, (15-0-1, 11 KOs), of Boyle Heights, CA showed once again why he is a force in the featherweight division with an eighth-round stoppage of Jose ‘El Mudo’ Perez, (11-3-2, 5 KOs), of Gardena, CA in the main event on Saturday night in front of a sold-out Commerce Casino Events Center in Los Angeles, CA. The victory settled the heated cross-town rivalry and earned Trinidad the WBC Continental Americas Title.

Presented by Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions, Trinidad vs. Perez headlined an outstanding night of professional boxing as part of the nationally acclaimed Hollywood Fight Nights series and

was broadcast globally by UFC FIGHT PASS.

Switching stances throughout the first four rounds, the crafty Perez would attempt to counteract Trinidad’s aggressiveness. Fighting at close range both fighters thrilled the raucous crowd landing huge combinations throughout the first half of the scheduled ten-rounder.

Connecting with a check left hook in the seventh, Trinidad would badly hurt and drop Perez. Early in the eighth the valiant Perez hit the canvas again from a barrage of Trinidad’s power shots as referee Gerard White halting the action at the 1:07 mark.

Fighting in the super welterweight co-feature, Inglewood, CA native Eduardo Perez, (8-3, 2KO), won a spirited six-round split decision over Jose Manuel Gomez, (4-4-1, 4 KOs), of Livermore, CA. Scores were 58-56 twice for Perez and 56-58 for Gomez.

Super featherweight Adan Ochoa, (13-4, 6 KOs), returned to the win column with a second-round stoppage of John Mark Alimane, (8-6-1, 4 KOs). Following a dominant two rounds from Ochoa, Alimane did not leave his corner to start the third.

Undefeated lightweight David Romero, (5-0-1, 1 KOs) continued to shine with an impressive six-round shutout unanimous decision over Luciano Ramos, (2-4). Scores were 60-51 on all three judge’s scorecards as Ramos was deducted one point for hitting on the break in the fifth and two points for holding in the sixth.

Female flyweight Brook Sibrian, (2-0, 1 KOs) stopped game Nikkia Williams, (0-2) at the 1:29 mark of the third round.

Newcomer Abel Mejia, (3-0, 2 KOs), won a four round unanimous decision over Luis Montellano. Scores in the super featherweight battle were 40-36 and 39-37 twice for Mejia.

Opening the card, women’s flyweight Guadalupe Medina, (5-0, 2 KOs), stayed unbeaten with a four round majority decision over Lilian Almarez, (0-4). Scores 40-36 for Medina and 38-38.

                                                ————————————————–

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PHOENIX — A statement was demanded.

Statement delivered.

Jaime Munguia did what Canelo Alvarez could not. He stopped a tough, smart John Ryder Saturday night in a super-middleweight fight that was a test of Munguia’s potential.

There’s plenty of that, perhaps enough for him to land a Canelo fight projected to be in May. It’s all up to Canelo, whose pay-per-view clout and celebrity comes with a perk. He does what he wants to.

It’s anybody’s guess as to whether he wants the Munguia that 10,836 fans at Footprint Center saw against Ryder, whose corner threw in the towel at 1:25 of the ninth round.

“It would be an honor to be in the same ring with him,’’ Munguia (43-0, 34 KOs) said when asked the inevitable Canelo question.

Canelo or not, there’s one thing certain about Munguia, a 27-year-old fighter from Tijuana. He stepped out of the ring with enhanced credibility.

He’s a player, a proven threat at 168 pounds. Put him alongside David Benavidez, David Morrell, Edgar Berlanga and Jermall Charlo.

“I was ready for this,’’ he said. “I knew I was ready for this.’’

He knew more than just about anybody other than his Hall of Fame trainer, Freddie Roach. Roach predicated Munguia would win an eighth-round TKO. Roach missed by only a round.

Munguia did it with four knockdowns of Ryder (32-7, 18 KOs), a 35-year-old fighter who faces some tough question about whether his career has come to end.

Munguia knocked down Ryder in the second with a body shot that left a nasty red mark Ryder’s right side. He knocked down the UK fighter again in the fourth with successive left hands.

Then, there was the ninth. There was a right to the top head. Ryder was down for a third time. Then another blow to the head. Ryder was down for a fourth time. The towel soon followed, a sign of surrender for Ryder and the beginning of a second chapter for the emerging Munguia.

 Minimum Weight, Max Power: Oscar Collazo retains title 

It’s called minimum. Somehow, that isn’t quite fair to Oscar Collazo.

Maximum is more like it.

Collazo, the World Boxing Organization’s minimum weight champion flashed max power, knocking Reyneris Gutierrez, into the ropes and then flat on the canvas before the referee interceded and stopped it for third-round TKO Saturday night on the Jaime Munguia-John Ryder featured card at Footprint Center.

First, it was a huge right hand form Collazo (9-0, 7 KOs) that drove Gutierrez (10-2, 2 KOs) into the ropes. If not for those ropes, The Nicaraguan would have tumbled out of the ring, over the work table and onto the floor. Then, it was a left hand from the Puerto Rican. This time, no ropes were in the way. Gutierrez hit the deck. Moments later, it was over, a TKO:at 37 seconds of the third.

Darius Fulghum  wins a unanimously-booed dud

It was a fight full of clinches, missed punches, rabbit punches, boos  and more boos. There was even the wave.

Just when you thought it was extinct, Darius Fulghum and Alantez Fox brought it back. That’s how bad their super-middleweight fight was on the DAZN-streamed undercard for the Jaime Munguia-John Ryder mnin event at Footprint Center Saturday night.

The booing started in the second round. It got louder, even louder, until a near capacity crowd just bored. It started doing the wave. Yeah, that wave. Hands up, stand up and sit down, going from section to section in an undulating ring around the arena. Hey, it was better than watching the fight.

By the way, Fulghum (10-, 9 KOs), of Houston, won it, scoring a majority

 decision over Fox (28-6-1, 13 KOs), of Upper Marlboro MD. 

Not so sweet stoppage

Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora 12-0 (9KOs) made her first women’s IBF Flyweight title defense VS Christina Cruz 6-0. The fight was a battle of the sweet science of hit but not get hit, no one fighter looked dominate in the match. One fighter did control the ring through out the fight and was more active with her combinations and stunning her opponent. Fundora was using her ring IQ to cut off the ring and edging out the rounds in her favor in a very close fight. More over as the championship rounds rolled along Gabriela showed the heart of a warrior and took the fight over effortlessly out boxing Cruz. With less than a minute left in the 10th and final round referee Chris Flores stepped in and called a end to the fight in a controversial fashion. Cruz was not hurt and was simply walking away with her guard up still  defending herself. Visibly upset Cruz pleaded her case of why it should not have been stopped with some ringside having it a drawing going into the final round. Coming out on top and staying undefeated Fundora moves to 13-0 (10KOs) in a post fight interview Fundora praised Cruz “Cruz is a good fighter and glad she stepped up” also “I looked to her because she was an olympian and had a picture on my wall as a kid” ending her statement by saying “Cruz is an amazing fighter and it was an honor to share the ring”. When asked about the stoppage Fundora stated “I unleashed on her, and she turned around indicating she no longer wanted to fight”

One can only ask if she deserves a rematch or does the co-promotions between Golden Boy Promotions and Sampson Promotion look to set up a fight for undisputed later this year, Seemingly the road block to undisputed is Marlen Esparza who holds the other 3 tittle and has an upcoming fight that she can not look past herself. Just as her smile, the future is bright for the undefeated fighter of Coachella, CA….David Galaviz

David Picasso scores unanimous decision in U.S. debut

David Picasso wasn’t looking for a masterpiece. 

Just a victory.

He got it.

In his first appearance in the United States, Picasso, an unbeaten featherweight from Mexico City, scored repeatedly early, tired midway, then held on and held off Erik Ruiz in the late rounds.

All of it was enough for Picasso (27-0-1, 15 KOs) to secure a unanimous  decision over Ruiz (17-10-1, 7 KOs), a fighter from Oxnard, Calif., who from round to round got more aggressive in a 10-rounder in the first DAZN-streamed fight on the Munguia-Ryder card at Footprint Center.

Daniel Garcia scores crushing first round stoppage

It was over before a lot of arriving fans ever got to their seats.

Daniel Garcia finished the non-DAZN portion of the Jaime Munguia-John Ryder card in a flash at Footprint Center. Daniel Lugo may have seen it coming. But he couldn’t do much about it.

Garcia (8-0, 6 KOs), an unbeaten  lightweight from Denver, sent a right hand flying over the edge of  Lugo’s upraised gloves. Boom, it landed, crashing off Lugo’s chin and driving his head up and around. By the time some fans looked up, it was over.

Lugo (4-2, 1 KO), of Phoenix was down and out, a stoppage loser at 1:51 of the first round.

Gregory Morales scores unanimous decision, rocks Ron and the crowd

In the third bout of the night Gregory Morales (15-1, 9KOs) of San Antonio, TX faced Ronal Ron (14-4 ,11KOs) in a super featherweight fight 

In a  feel-out first round both fighters saved all their energy for the last 20 seconds of the round with both having success landing punches. It picked right back up in the second. However as the round came to an end, Morales showed head movement and landed some crisp punches. In the theme of the fight, Morales and Ron saved all the excitement for the end of the round. They got the crowd a little excited. There were theatrics coming from Ron. He spit his mouth piece out around the 2:20 mark. A few second later, he was warned about a head butt. The pace of the round had significantly picked up, with both fighters finding their rhythm and timing. Ron was briefly stunned early in the 5th round by a well placed left from Morales.

 As the crowd started chanting “Goyo”, it gave Morales extra motivation, landing a few lefts directly to the chin of Ron. 

A left hook by Morales landed. Over the last three rounds, Morales picked up the production of his pace and dazed his opponent with a multitude of punches. The last round served as the best round for Morales as he landed some great combos that made the crowd get even loader. Morales improved to 16-1 (9KOs), scoring a unanimous decision. In fight that brought the crowd to its fight in the final round.the crowd a good fight. —–David Galaviz

Toe-to-Toe: Gael Cabrera scores knockdown wins decision in tough bout

It was power against resilience.

Gael Cabrera, a Mexican featherweight from Sonora — just south of Arizona, had the power. He needed it, all of it to win. 

Miguel Ceballos, one of two AZ fighters on the Munguia-Ryder card, had the resilience, almost enough of it to score an upset.

But the power prevailed. A straight right hand from Cabrera (4-0, 3 KOs) put Ceballos down in the first round. Then, Cabrera held on, withstanding repeated bursts of energy from Ceballos (2-1, 2 KOs), of Peoria AZ.  Cabrera appeared to tire, but he still had enough power in both hands to keep Ceballos off him. The result: Cabrera won a unanimous decision in a hard-fought fight.

First Bell: Munguia-Ryder card begins with a quick stoppage

It should have been a matinee. But Jonathan Canas turned it into a short subject.

Canas, a lightweight from Santa Ana CA, needed only 64 seconds to finish Kameeko Hall in the opening bout Saturday afternoon on the card featuring Jaime Mungia-John Ryder at Footprint Center.

Canas, still perfect with three knockouts in three fights, delivered a body-to-head combo that put Hall, a winless fighter from Brunswick GA, onto one knee. It was the body shot that hurt him the most. When Hall (0-4) tried to get onto his feet, he got sick to his stomach. At 1:04 of the first, it was over for everybody but the maintenance crew. It had to clean up the mess.

By Norm Frauenheim –

PHOENIX – Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn is looking to bring Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez back to Arizona for a projected Super Fly title fight against Juan Francisco Estrada.

Hearn talked about the possibility this week while in Phoenix for the John Ryder-Jaime Munguia super-middleweight fight Saturday night at Footprint Center.

“We want to bring Bam-Estrada here for some time this summer,’’ said Hearn, also Ryder’s promoter.

Hearn was in Glendale, a Phoenix suburb, last month to promote Rodriguez’ dramatic ninth-round stoppage of Sunny Edwards at Desert Diamond Arena for the unified flyweight title on Dec. 16.

After the 112-pound bout, Rodriguez said he wanted to move up to 115 pounds in a bid to reclaim his old title against Estrada.

“I’ve been wanting to face Estrada,’’ Rodriguez said the after a victory that got him pound-for-pound consideration. “Why not now?’’

Estrada’s last fight was also at Desert Diamond where he scored a majority decision for the World Boxing Council’s super-fly title over accomplished Roman Gonzalez on Dec. 3, 2022. Hearn was the promoter.

Hearn also promoted Rodriguez’ first fight in AZ, a unanimous decision over Carlos Cuadras for that same WBC belt at Footprint in February 2022.

“it just makes sense to bring them back to Phoenix,’’ Hearn said. “The fans here know both, know them well. This a great fight town. There are a lot of educated fans here.’’

Fighters in boxing’s lightest weight classes have always been popular in Phoenix, home for Hall of Fame junior-flyweight Michael Carbajal, who drew capacity crowds to Footprint – then named America West when the arena first opened in 1992.  

Lewis Crocker scored a fifth round stoppage over Jose Felix in round five of their 10-round welterweight bout in Ireland

In round three, Felix was deducted a point for low blows. In round five, Crocker landed a perfect left hook that sent Felix under the bottom rope. Felix got to his feet, but was in no condition to continue and the fight was stopped at 1:54

Crocker, who was three pounds over the 147-pound weight limit is now 19-0 with 11 knockouts. Felix, 146.6 lbs of Los Mochis, MEX is 40-7-1.

Cheavon Clarke remained undefeated with a fourth round stoppage over Tommy McCarthy in a 10-round cruiserweight fight.

In round four, Clarke overwhelmed McCarthy and dropped him with a flurry. Clarke continued to pound the body and land vicious uppercuts until the fight was stopped at 1:28.

Clarke, 199.6 lbd of Gravesland, ENG is 8-0 with six knockouts. McCarthy, 199.4 lbs of Belfast, NI is 20-6.

Paddy Donovan remained undefeated with seventh round stoppage over Williams Andres Herrera in a scheduled 10-round welterweight bout

In round seven, Donovan dropped Herrera with a left to the body. Donovan continued to land body shots and folded him up in the corner for a second knockdown. Donovan beat down Herrera until the fight was stopped at 1:44.

Donovan, 146.4 lbs of Limerick, IRE is 13-0 with 10 knockouts. Herrera, 146.6 lbs of La Calera, ARG is 15-3.

Conah Walker stopped Lloyd Germain in round three of their 10-round welterweight bout.

In round three, Walker dropped Germain with a flurry on the ropes. Walker dropped Germain again with a left to the body. Walker ended things by dropping Germain with a right hand and the fight was stopped at 1:33.

Walker, 146.4 lbs of Wolverhampton, ENG is 13-2-1 with five knockouts. Germain, 146.6 lbs of Cardiff, WAL is 9-1.

Giorgio Visioli stopped Samuel Pikire in round two of their six-round super featherweight bout.

In round two, Visioli dropped Pikire with a perfect left cross on the chin that put him down. Pikire got to his feet, but the fight was stopped at 1:34.

Visioli, 134.2 lbs of Guidford, ENG is now 2-0 with two knockouts. Pikire, 133.5 lbs of Longbridge, ENG is 4-3.

Kurt Walker remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Darwing Martinez in a super featherweight bout.

Walker, 133.2 lbs of Lisburn, NI won by a 60-54 score and is 10-0. Martinez, 130.6 lbs of Managua, NIC is 8-18-2.

Leli Buttigieg won a four-round decision over Artjom Spatar in a super welterweight bout.

Buttigieg, 158.5 lbs of Newham, ENG won by a 40-36 score and is now 2-0. Spatar, 157.5 lbs of Narva, EST is 4-5.

The stunning city of Oaxaca in Mexico hosts Matchroom for the first time as a thrilling night of elite boxing awaits on Friday, February 16 – live worldwide on DAZN.
 
Nestled within the breathtaking, hillside views, the spectacular open-air Auditorium Guelaguetza will see home favorite Adrien Curiel defend his IBF World Light-Flyweight title in what promises to be a scintillating rematch with Sivenathi ’The Special One’ Nontshinga.
 
And Featherweight star Mauricio Lara will kickstart his 2024 campaign in the co-main event as he faces fellow Mexican Daniel Lugo.
 
Lara (26-3-1, 19 KOs) stopped former World champion Josh Warrington in 2021 before eventually becoming world champion when last year he sensationally stopped Leigh Wood in seven rounds.
 
But after drama on the scales, Lara lost his belt before entering the ring for the rematch with Wood last May in Manchester in which the Nottingham fighter would duly win in a resounding, unanimous points victory.
 
Some nine months later, Lara is back to rise the rankings again as he faces a hungry Lugo (27-2, 18 KOs) over 10 rounds looking to underline his ultimate ambition of ruling the world once again. 
  
The full fight card will be revealed in due course, headlined by Curiel’s eagerly awaited first IBF title defense.
 
In what was arguably one of the knockouts of 2023, Curiel dramatically dethroned his South African rival in spectacular style.
 
The Mexican (24-4-1, 5 KOs) ripped up the script by scoring a shocking one-punch knockout of the defending champion Nontshinga (12-1, 9 KOs) in the second round of their highly anticipated showdown in Monaco. 
 
Now Curiel will be hoping to repeat his heroics as the 24-year-old makes the first defense of his World title on home soil, determined to prove that his stunning knockout of the year contender wasn’t just a one off. 
 
Having tasted defeat for the first time in his career, Nontshinga is aiming to recapture his old belt – which he won by beating Hector Flores in the Mexican city of Hermosillo back in 2022 – to keep his dreams of unifying the division alive. It all takes place in Oaxaca, Mexico’s vibrant historical centre of arts, culture and gastronomy.
 
Located 500km from Mexico City, separated to the north by rugged mountains, Oaxaca is city rich in indigenous history and one that has forged its own distinctive identity to deservedly earn a UNESCO World Heritage badge.
 
Matchroom Sport chairman Eddie Hearn said: “Mexico is the birthplace of a long list of legendary fighters, and we are delighted to continue our travels to this great nation and will undoubtedly be a special fight night in Oaxaca.” 
 
For more details on Matchroom’s 2024 events, visit: matchroomboxing.com 

4 x 3 mins International International Super-Welterweight contest
LELI BUTTIGIEG 158.5 lbs v ARTJOM SPATAR 157.5 lbs
(Newham, England)               (Narva, Estonia)

followed by

6 x 3 mins International Super-Featherweight contest
KURT WALKER 133.2 lbs v DARWING MARTINEZ 130.6 lbs
(Lisburn, Northern Ireland)  (Managua, Nicaragua)

followed by

19:00 LIVE ON DAZN

6 x 3 mins Super-Featherweight contest
GIORGIO VISIOLI 133.2 lbs v SAMUEL PIKIRE 133.5 lbs
(Guidford, England)                (Longbridge, England)

followed by

10 x 3 mins WBA International Welterweight Title
CONAH WALKER 146.4 lbs v LLOYD GERMAIN 146.6 lbs
(Wolverhampton, England)    (Cardiff, Wales)

followed by

10 x 3 mins WBA Continental Welterweight Title
PADDY DONOVAN 146.4 lbs v WILLIAMS ANDRES HERRERA 146.6 lbs
(Limerick, Ireland)                     (La Calera, Argentina)

followed by

10 x 3 mins WBA Intercontinental Cruiserweight Title
CHEAVON CLARKE 199.6 lbs v TOMMY MCCARTHY 199.4 lbs
(Gravesend, England)                 (Belfast, Northern Ireland)

followed by

10 x 3 mins WBO Intercontinental Welterweight Title
LEWIS CROCKER 150lbs v JOSE FELIX 146.6 lbs
(Belfast, Northern Ireland)  (Los Mochis, Mexico)  

Philadelphia, PA (January 26, 2024) — Weights for Saturday night’s RDR Promotions card at Harrah’s Philadelphia.

Isaiah Johnson 145 – Dashaun Johns 146

Jalique Holden 130 – Jacob Ray 134

Devin Price 138.8 – Sebastian Gabriel Chaves 141

Devon Lee 142 – Rondale Hubbert 142

Dante Selby 218 – Dominique Mayfield 281

Erron Peterson 161 – Christopher Arguello 169

Ghandi Romain 145.8 – Callen Herley 144.6

Eleizer Olmeida 146.6 – Donte Turner TBA

Josh Aarons 118.4 – Edwin Cortes 118.6

Keith Jackson 161.6 – Tyler Nystrom 159.8

Pryce Taylor 272 – Gabriel Aguilar Costa 205.6

Promoter: RDR Promotions

Venue: Harrahs Philadelphia

1st Bell: 7 PM ET

Stream: BXNGTV.com

Tickets are $65, $75, $100 and $130 and can be purchased at rdrboxing@yahoo.com

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA (January 26, 2024) – The lightweight division’s newest imminent, undefeated danger and unparalleled knockout machine William “El Camarón” Zepeda (29-0, 25 KOs) of San Mateo Atenco, Mexico will face his first English fighter and former IBO World Champion Maxi “Maximus” Hughes (26-6-2, 5 KOs) in a 12-round IBF and WBA Lightweight World Championship Eliminator fight. The event, which is co-promoted with DiBella Entertainment, is scheduled for Saturday, March 16. The action will take place live from The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and broadcast around the world on DAZN.

“I am excited for this big challenge ahead of me, and being one step closer to accomplishing my dream of becoming a world champion,” said William Zepeda. “Maxi Hughes is a grand fighter, and I can’t wait to face him in the ring on March 16 and represent my humble hometown of San Mateo Atenco on the world’s stage. I know Golden Boy wants to bring big fights back to Las Vegas, the capital of boxing, and I want to be part of that – I want to be crowned a World Champion in Vegas.”

William Zepeda has developed a track record for his unmissable, knockout performances. Representing the humble town of San Mateo Atenco, Mexico, “El Camarón” has cruised through his tough opposition, winning the hearts and minds of boxing fans. His breakout performance was against former world champion Joseph “JoJo” Diaz in October 2022, where he broke three CompuBox records at lightweight for total punches thrown (1,536, exceeding Efren Hinojosa’s 1,507 against Lamar Murphy on 3/16/01), jabs attempted in a round (89 in round two, breaking Lamar Murphy’s 88 in round two against Angel Manfredy on 8/3/01) and attempted jabs (787, surpassing Stefano Zoff’s 673 against Julien Lorcy on 8/7/99). He was last seen knocking out the resilient former world title challenger Mercito Gesta during Mexican Independence weekend last year.

“My last fight in the U.S., the judges broke my heart. I won’t let them derail my career. I’m coming back stateside with the bit between my teeth. Zepeda hasn’t fought anyone like me before,” said Maxi Hughes.

Former World Champion Maxi Hughes comes from humble beginnings, representing Rossington, England. Since making his professional boxing debut on September 17, 2010, he quickly ascended the ladder, building a portfolio full of regional titles including BBBofC Featherweight, WBC International Super Featherweight, WBO European Lightweight, and the WBC International Lightweight title. He ultimately became the IBO Lightweight World Champion in 2021 against Jovanni Straffon, which he successfully defended twice. He was last seen in a valiant performance against George Kambosos Jr. in July 2023.

“Zepeda is a wrecking ball every time he steps into the ring — and with a title shot hanging in the balance, fans are going to be in for an offensive barrage from “El Camarón,” said Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions Oscar De La Hoya. “Maxi Hughes has been in with the best of the best, and if Zepeda gets past him, the sky’s the limit.”

“Maxi Hughes earned this double world title eliminator with a great run of fights and a terrific performance against George Kambosos Jr.,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Maxi and William Zepeda are two of the best lightweights in the world and this fight will establish a justifiable mandatory contender. I thank Golden Boy Promotions for their fairness in the negotiating process, treating Maxi like the world class fighter he is.”

Additional information on event tickets, undercard and media credentials will be announced in the coming weeks.

###

Zepeda vs. Hughes is a 12-round IBF and WBA Lightweight World Championship Eliminator fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions in co-promotion with DiBella Entertainment. The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

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

By Norm Frauenheim –

PHOENIX – Oscar De La Hoya, already busy promoting a real fight between Jaime Munguia and John Ryder, found himself addressing questions Thursday about reports of another one in what looks to be a further episode in an ongoing feud.

The news conference was about Munguia-Ryder, a significant super-middleweight fight Saturday night on the Suns home floor at Footprint Center.

The buzz was about Ryan Garcia.

De La Hoya-Garcia, a social-media soap opera even before Twitter became X, took a confusing turn late Wednesday and early Thursday.

The brief version – if only there was one – goes something like this: Garcia was fighting Rolly Romero. Then, he wasn’t.

Sounds simple enough, and maybe it would be, pre-social media. But it isn’t. Ryan Garcia is a social media star. He needs a census to count his followers.

And they were talking late Wednesday, first about a Garcia post that said he would be fighting Mexican junior-welterweight champion Rolly Romero on April 20.

Hours later, ESPN reported that Romero was fighting Isaac Cruz on March 30 in Las Vegas. Can you hear the buzz?

De La Hoya did, and he addressed the inevitable after a news conference that included a theme about promotional unity in The Boxing Balkans.

From De La Hoya’s perspective, there’s no feud with Garcia, at least not in what transpired this week.

“A lot is happening,’’ De La Hoya said after the formal Munguia-Ryder news conference concluded. “Look, me and Ryan are on a united front. We are going to get his fight, done and sealed. And I will announce it when it is done.

“I do know for sure it will be April 20 in Las Vegas. But no names.’’

No opponent, yet. The only sure thing is that it won’t be Romero, the World Boxing Association’s 140-pound champion.

“There were negotiations that took place,’’ De La Hoya said. “But nothing in writing.’’

De La Hoya went on to say that the Romero-Cruz fight on Amazon Prime – the first since it struck a deal with Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) — could set up Garcia’s second fight in 2024.

“It turns out, the winner of the Rolly-Isaac Cruz fight could be in the Ryan Garcia lottery for the next fight.’’  

Unity, however, wasn’t exactly the message delivered by Garcia when he reacted to the ESPN news Thursday.

“Look I was informed the deal was finalizing and it would be announced in the coming days,’’ Garcia posted on X.  “Obviously That was a lie. My patience has been tested the last few weeks. I’m trying my best to be as honest and real as I can to you guys. I’ll be looking forward to announcing my next fight. I’m not going to say anything until it’s actually signed and delivered

 I still look forward to putting on a big PPV for Dazn Boxing. Have a Blessed day.’’

A blessed day, at least for some, would be the simple sound of an opening bell, a sound that for awhile might silence the back-and-forth on social media.

That, at least, is an opinion long held by the old-school, no nonsense Bernard Hopkins, a minority partner in De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions who is as direct with his words as he was with his deadly punches during his Hall of Fame days as The Executioner.

“I don’t control social media, so I don’t know what’s going on,’’ Hopkins said at the Phoenix newser. “Is there a fight or not? I don’t know.

“But I do know – and I’ll say it again – I’m sick of the drama queens.

“We as promoters, along with the fans, have to make it clear that we’re not putting up with this anymore. Last year, we started coming back to where we have to be.

“There was Ryan-Tank (Gervonta Davis) in April. People watched. More than 1.2 million watched. Then, there was Terence Crawford and Errol Spence. That was the second fight that said we’re coming back with what people want to see.

“But now we’re in a tug-of-war.’’

A war to keep it real.

Highly ranked super middleweight Erik Bazinyan stopped Billi Godoy in round three of their 10-round bout at Montreal Casino in Montreal, Canada.

In round three, Bazinyan dropped Godoy with a chopping right hand and the fight was stopped at 2:24.

Bazinyan, 169.9 lbs of Laval,QUE, CAN is 32-0 with 23 knockouts. Godoy, 166.3 lbs of Centaras, ARG is 41-8.

Albert Ramirez won a 10-round unanimous decision over Artur Ziyatdinov in a light heavyweight bout.

Ramirez, 174.8 lbs of El Vigna, VEN won by scores of 100-90, 99-91 and 98-92 and is now 18-0. Ziyatdinov, 174.3 lbs of Montreal is 15-2.

Steve Claggett stopped Marcos Gonzalez after two rounds of their eight-round junior welterweight fight.

Gonzalez could not answer the bell for round three.

Claggett, 142 lbs of Calgary, ALB, CAN is 38-7-2 with 26 knockouts. Gonzalez, 141.1 lbs of Chihuahua, MEX is 23-4.

Recent world title challenger Mary Spencer stopped Sonya Dreiling after the opening round of their eight-round junior middleweight fight.

Spencer had a good first round as she landed a couple of good combinations. Dreiling did not continue after the round.

Spencer, 153.8 lbs of Montreal is 8-2 with six knockouts. Dreiling, 153.2 lbs of Albertsville, AL is 6-4.

Jhon Orobio stopped Juan Carlos Garcia after round three of their six-round lightweight bout.

In round one, Orobio dropped Garcia with a hard flurry. Orobio battered Garcia and the fight was stopped at 3:00 in the corner.

Orobio, 133.5 lbs of Montreal is 6-0 with six knockouts. Garcia, 134.7 lbs of Mexico City is 5-5.

Wilkens Mathieu remained undefeated with a fourth round stoppage over Oscar Soto Quintana in a scheduled six-round light heavywight bout.

In round four, Mathieu landed a hard right that was ruled a standing eight count and the fight was stopped at 31 seconds.

Mathieu, 173.1 lbs of Montreal is 7-0 with four knockouts. Quintana, 173.2 lbs of Sonora, MEX is 6-5.

Moreno Fendero remained undefeated with a second round stoppage over Ricardo Lara in a scheduled four-round middleweight fight.

In round one, Fendrro dropped Lara with a left uppercut to the body. In round two, it was a left over the top that put Fendero down in the corner. Fenderp ended things when he landed a big right hook that put Lara down and the fight was stopped at 1:46.

Fendero, 163.9 lbs of Besancon, FRA is 4-0 with three knockouts. Lara, 163.6 lbs of El Grullo, MEX is 22-12-2.

LAS VEGAS – January 25, 2024 – A pair of all-action, high-stakes showdowns will top a stacked four-fight pay-per-view event as two-time world champion Keith “One Time” Thurman duels rising star and reigning world champion Tim Tszyu in the main event while 140-pound world champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero and Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz meet in the co-main event on Saturday, March 30 in the inaugural PBC Pay-Per-View available on Prime Video from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The card marks the debut event for PBC Pay-Per-View available through Prime Video since the parties announced a landmark, multiyear rights agreement in December. 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 traditional cable and satellite outlets.

The pay-per-view will also see Cuban star and reigning WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara defend his belt against No. 1 rated mandatory challenger Michael Zerafa, plus all-action super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora will meet streaking contender Serhii Bohachuk in the pay-per-view opener.

*Ticketing information to be announced shortly. The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. The main event is promoted in association with No Limit Boxing.

“This first show with PBC on Prime Video is jam-packed with fan-friendly matchups featuring stars who are established as the best of their generation and new stars who are looking to make a claim to lead the next generation of champions,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Keith Thurman vs. Tim Tszyu gives each fighter a chance to debut 2024 with a statement, while ‘Rolly’ Romero and ‘Pitbull’ Cruz can send their ascending stock skyrocketing by emerging victorious. With two more clashes rounding out the pay-per-view, this lines up as another night from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas that you’ll want to stay glued to your seat for.”

“This is an historic event and puts the Tszyu name right back at the pinnacle of boxing where it belongs,” said George Rose, CEO of No Limit Boxing. “Tim only wanted the big names, legacy fights, and Keith Thurman is exactly that. It doesn’t end well for Thurman though as the world is going to realize Tim Tszyu is about to take over the sport. Thank you Premier Boxing Champions, TGB Promotions and Prime Video for what is going to be an incredible night of boxing.”

*KEITH THURMAN VS. TIM TSZYU*

The main event will see the former unified world champion Thurman, a long-time stalwart at welterweight, take his first crack at the super welterweight division as he faces the undefeated reigning WBO 154-pound World Champion Tszyu in a 12-round non-title showdown.

Clearwater, Florida’s Thurman (30-1, 22 KOs) earned his “One Time” moniker by talking the talk and delivering with highlight-reel KOs. He has assembled one of the most impressive resumes among the top welterweights of this generation, having defeated former champions Shawn Porter, Danny Garcia and Robert Guerrero. That showdown with Garcia saw him become a unified world champion in a rare unification bout between undefeated welterweight world champions. Thurman’s only blemish came in a 2019 Fight of the Year against boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, with Thurman ending up on the wrong side of a narrow split-decision. Most recently, Thurman bested former world champion and current highly ranked welterweight Mario Barrios by unanimous decision in February 2022.

“I’m back in action and I’m happy to be a part of this first event with PBC on Prime Video,” said Thurman. “Tszyu stands out as an exceptional fighter, and I’ve always held admiration for his performances. His distinctive style provides the perfect stage for me to exhibit the relentless dedication I’ve poured into training, refining my skills, and fortifying my mental game. This fight promises a spectacular showdown between two of the most electrifying fighters in the sport, an event that demands attention. Good things come to those that wait. Them days are over, bright lights and action are up ahead. Let’s shake up the world of boxing one more time on Prime Video.”

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.

“I’ve been ready and waiting to headline a historic event like this in the U.S. for a very long time and it’s an honor that I don’t take lightly,” said Tszyu. “My father did it, and was at the top of the world for a decade, now it’s my turn. Thurman is a great fight, he’s tricky, tough and he’s mixed it with the very best the sport has seen. This is a new era now. It’s the Tszyu era. On March 30, everyone who tunes into this pay-per-view is going to see for themselves.”

*ROLANDO ROMERO VS. ISAAC CRUZ*

The WBA Super Lightweight World Champion Romero will make the first defense of his world title in a 12-round matchup against the top lightweight contender Cruz, who will look to debut at 140-pounds with a championship-winning performance in the night’s co-main event.

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. 

“This is gonna be Rolly versus the Chihuahua in the ring on March 30,” said Romero. “I’m gonna stay world champ and be the first superstar on Prime Video. Just make sure you buy your tickets or tune in on pay-per-view, don’t miss this one.”

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.

“I’m very happy and extremely motivated to have this opportunity to fight for the world title,” said Cruz. “I’ve worked extremely hard to earn this shot. I’ve tried to fight other big names, but ‘Rolly’ was the only one to step up and accept the challenge. He’s got power and courage, and he comes to knock you out. That’s going to make this a great fight on March 30. I’m thankful to my promoter Manny Pacquiao and my whole team for helping secure this fight for me. I will leave the ring as world champion on March 30.”

*ERISLANDY LARA VS. MICHAEL ZERAFA*

Unbeaten in two fights at middleweight, Lara will defend his WBA Middleweight World Championship against the WBA’s top-rated mandatory challenger Zerafa in a 12-round attraction on the pay-per-view lineup.

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.

“I’m looking forward to getting back in the ring and defending my title, especially on this first event with PBC on Prime Video,” said Lara. “I feel like I’m the modern day Bernard Hopkins and that I can keep doing this for years. I know that Zerafa has been waiting patiently for this opportunity, so he’s going to be hungry on fight night. But he’s going to realize that he’s now on the world class level facing the best fighter in the division. It’s an honor to be on this great card that’s going to be action packed from start to finish.”

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.

“This is long overdue ever since I became the mandatory,” said Zerafa. “I’m very thankful to everyone who made this fight happen. Come fight night, the world will see why I deserve this opportunity and Australia will have a new world champion.”

*SEBASTIAN FUNDORA VS. SERHII BOHACHUK*

Already established as a must-see attraction, Fundora will return to face fellow highly ranked super welterweight Bohachuk in a 12-round fight for the vacant Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title to kick off the pay-per-view telecast.

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.

“Training camp is going great and I’ve been working hard to get ready for this fight,” said Fundora. “I train 100% for every fight, so it’s been getting back to work as usual for me. I know I’ll win because my objective is still the same as before, to become world champion in the super welterweight division.”

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.

“I can’t wait for this opportunity to fight for the title,” said Bohachuk. “I’ve worked my entire career for the chance to reach my dream in this sport. I will give everything to win this fight, because I’m not just fighting for myself, but also for my war-torn country of Ukraine.”

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For more information visit www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #ThurmanTszyu 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

NEW YORK (January 25, 2024) – Split-T Management former world title challenger Mary Spencer will be back in action when she takes on Sonya Dreiling in an eight-round junior middleweight bout at Montreal Casino in Montreal, Canada.

Spencer, who is managed by Brian Cohen of Split-T Management has a record 7-2 with five knockouts.

?The 39 year-old Spencer knocked out Cynthia Lozano (9-1) in one round on September 9, 2022.

Dreiling of Albertville, Alabama is now 6-3 with two knockouts, The 33 year-old Dreiling has quality wins over Kara Wiggins (1-0), Jordanne Garcia (4-0-1) and is on a two fight winning streak with victories over Chevelle Hallback (33-8-2) as well as Garcia (4-1-2) for a second time. The latter victory came on February 24, 2023 in Rio Grande, New Mexico.

Spencer, who is promoted by Eye of the Tiger Management, weighed 153.8 lbs. Dreiling was 153.2

The fight will be streamed live on ESPN+ at 7 PM ET.

CHRIS BOURKE WILL challenge for the British bantamweight title against Ashley Lane on a night of triple title action at York Hall on Friday March 22, live on TNT Sports.

Also in championship fights is top young light heavyweight Willy Hutchinson (16-1, 12 KOs), who will defend his WBC International title against Martin Huber (17-2, 10) from Germany, plus Raven Chapman (8-0, 2) defending her WBC International featherweight title against the undefeated Colombian Yohana Sarabia (10-0, 6).

Leading British prospects Royston Barney-Smith (8-0, 4, super featherweight), Sean Noakes (6-0, 3, welterweight) and Sonny Liston Ali (7-0, super welterweight) feature, along with Queensberry newcomers Frank Wood (super featherweight), Iman Zamatkesh (cruiserweight) and Nicola Barke (4-0, super lightweight).

Tickets for the triple title fight night at York Hall, Bethnal Green on Friday, 22 March are on sale now, available at: ticketmaster.co.uk

Bourke (13-1, 8) previously challenged for the British title at super bantamweight against Marc Leach in early 2022 and is now seeking to officially reboot his career at the weight below.

“This is what I wanted and it is why I went down to bantamweight,” explained the Streatham puncher, 29, who trains out of the Peacock Gym in Epping. “I am aiming to make a statement and then move on from there.

“I’ve got no injuries this time and I am just ready to do the business.

“Ashley Lane has been around for a long time, is very experienced and has been in the ring with a lot of good fighters, but I just feel like this is the perfect fight for me. He stopped Jordan Purkiss for the English and I saw the good, heavy knockdowns.

“He looked good, but this is my time now, I’ve got to go in there, make a statement and start making waves in the bantamweight division this year.

“This is a bit like phase two for me now in my career. Before my loss everyone was talking about me and then it all went quiet and my name wasn’t really getting mentioned.

“I feel like this is my opportunity to put myself back out there and get people excited again.”

Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren added: “These York Hall shows are so important in helping to secure the future success of British boxing and we will continue building our foundations on March 22 with a smashing card headed up by three very competitive title fights.

“I am delighted to deliver a second British title fight to Chris Bourke, at bantamweight this time, against Ashley Lane and I am confident that Chris will do the business and really push on from there.

“Willy Hutchinson and Raven Chapman are both in good fights defending their WBC belts and I anticipate both nudging themselves towards world title action over the course of this year.

“We also get to officially welcome three new faces to the Queensberry ranks in Frank Wood, Iman Zamatkesh and Nicola Barke and I am looking forward to seeing them all perform.”

Tickets for the triple title fight night at York Hall, Bethnal Green on Friday, 22 March are on sale now, available at: ticketmaster.co.uk

A recharged Matty Harris starts out on the heavyweight comeback trail on Friday, March 1 in Telford as part of a huge night of European title action.

Also added to the Wasserman Boxing event at the Telford International Centre, is one of British boxing’s most exciting young stars, Dan Toward who has made a flying start to life as a professional.

The Wasserman Boxing talents are the first additions to the undercard of the EBU European Super Welterweight title showdown between Abass Baraou and Sam Eggington, which will be shown live and free-to-air on Channel 5.

Baraou’s clash with ‘The Savage’ promises to stake an early claim for Fight of the Year, as Wasserman Boxing, in association with Ladbrokes, Infinitum Entertainment and Numan, starts its 2024 schedule with a bang.

Tickets go on sale tomorrow at 10am and are expected to go fast.

Heavyweight puncher Harris, 24, returns to the ring for the first time since July’s shock defeat in Edinburgh to Kostiantyn Dovbyshchenko and fights for the first time under new coach, Peter Fury.

Toward, 22, has hit the ground running in the pro ranks, clocking up two quick wins at the end of last year, and heads to Telford with a new trainer, Dave Coldwell. 

Matty Harris said: “Since losing my unbeaten record, I have taken time out to work on what went wrong last summer. 

“I’ve now got a renewed focus and I feel recharged and more than ready to get back in the ring, on March 1 in Telford. 

“I have teamed up with Peter Fury and I am really excited about this new partnership and where my career can go with this man in my corner, because he has forgotten more than most people know about the sport. 

“I’m buzzing to be back; I can’t wait to put right what went wrong and start putting myself back in the heavyweight mix.” 

Dan Toward said: “I am one of Britain’s brightest prospects and I fully intend on setting out my stall for 2024, with a big performance on March 1 in Telford.

“This time, I will have Dave Coldwell in my corner and I can’t wait to show people in the arena, and those watching on TV, what we have been working on behind-closed-doors.

“It was incredible to experience being under the lights and in front of cameras for the first time as a pro last year, and the stage gets even bigger in Telford.

“One day soon, it will be me who is fighting for the European title but, for now, I am going to soak up the atmosphere and deliver a performance that will steal the show.”

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (January 25, 2024) — Today the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame (ACBHOF) unveiled the twenty-one (21) honorees chosen for induction into its Hall of Fame. The prestigious 8th Annual Awards & Induction Weekend is scheduled to take place from Friday, September 27th, to Sunday, September 29th, 2024, at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City. 

CLASS OF 2024:

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 {Trainer}, Bruce Blair{Trainer},  Sampson Lewkowicz {Manager & Promoter}, Eric Bottjer {Matchmaker}, Randy Gordon {Media} Guy Gargan {Media}

POSTHUMOUS:

Howard Davis Jr. {Fighter}, Jay Larkin {T.V Executive}, Eddie Cotton {Referee}

PIONEERS:

Eric Seelig {Fighter}, George Godfrey {Fighter}, Joey Giardello {Fighter}

“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 & Founder, Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame

   The Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame will offer boxing enthusiasts a fun filled experience with exceptional programming at this year’s Boxing Hall of Fame Awards & Induction Weekend. Delight in a VIP cocktail reception, engage in meet & greets with legendary figures, and immerse yourself in a fight fan experience showcasing stunning artwork, exhibits, and boxing memorabilia. The pinnacle of the weekend is the Awards & Induction red-carpet ceremony, set in an award-show atmosphere.

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.

“Thank you esteemed colleagues for selecting me for a prestigious position such as an inductee into 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 

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, Atlantic City Sports Commission, Sparbar Ltd, Bare Knuckle Fighting Champions, Fight Night Apparel, Icons of Boxing Memorabilia, Adams Boxing, Sampson 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

NEW YORK (January 24, 2024) – Split-T Management has signed former world title challenger Angelica Rascon.

Rascon, 32 of El Paso, Texas has a record of 11-2 with two knockouts.

Racon will be managed by Brian Cohen.

“We are very happy to be working with her and navigate her to a world title. Angelica is fighting on March 1st in her hometown of El Paso Texas at the County Coliseum,” said Cohen.

Rascon turned professional on February 28, 2014 with a fourth round stoppage of Adilemme Murrieta. She also has a win over previously undefeated Johanna Porras.

Rascon has fought 10 fights in Mexico and came up short in losing a decision to Yamileth Mercado on June 26, 2021 in a battle for Mercado’s WBC Super Bantamweight title.

Rascon is coming off a career best win as she took a majority decision over the highly regarded Mia Ellis (7-1) on December 1st in Houston, Texas.

VERONA, N.Y. (Jan. 24, 2024) — Following three impressive victories in 2023, welterweight standout Brian Norman Jr. is gearing up for a breakthrough year.

Norman will defend his WBO International title against Janelson Bocachica in a 10-rounder on Saturday, March 2 at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York. Norman-Bocachica joins a stacked undercard that will be headlined by the vacant WBA featherweight world title showdown between Uzbek phenom Otabek Kholmatov and American contender Raymond Ford.

In the co-feature, Mexico’s Luis Alberto “El Venado” Lopez defends his IBF crown against Japanese upstart Reiya Abe.

Kholmatov-Ford, Lopez-Abe and undercard fights will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+.

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at the Turning Stone Resort Casino Box Office, charge by phone by calling 800.771.7711, or online at Ticketmaster.com.

Norman (25-0, 19 KOs) made his pro debut in January 2018 and went 11-0 in his first year in the paid ranks. In 2021, he fought four times, including a first-round TKO against Roque Agustin Junco that December. After a year-long layoff, Norman regained his momentum in 2023 by tallying eight-round decisions against Rodrigo Coria in January and Jesus Perez in May before capturing his first regional title against Quinton Randall in November. Bocachica (17-2-1, 11 KOs) went 16-0 before handing Mark Reyes Jr. his first pro defeat in February 2021. Since then, he’s been involved in several close contests, including a narrow decision loss to Alberto Palmetta last November.

The undercard will showcase a variety of emerging talents from the Top Rank roster, as well as the return of a home region hero:

Undefeated U.S. Olympic silver medalist Duke Ragan (9-0, 1 KO) will see action in an eight-round featherweight clash against Colombia’s Brandon Valdes (15-4, 7 KOs). Ragan signed with Top Rank in August 2020 and fought four times as a pro before capturing the silver medal in Tokyo. He then continued his career in the paid ranks in 2022 by scoring four additional victories. The Cincinnati native toughed out a split decision victory against Jose Perez last October.

In a battle of undefeated junior welterweights, Dominican Olympian Rohan Polanco (11-0, 7 KOs) will lock horns against Tarik Zaina (13-0-1, 8 KOs). Polanco conquered a trio of stiff tests last year, each with only one career loss. He decisioned Ricardo Quiroz in April and earned stoppages against Cesar Francis in July and Keith Hunter in December. Zaina aims to build off his biggest triumph yet, a unanimous decision win over Argentine contender Marcelino Lopez.

U.S. Olympian Troy Isley (11-0, 4 KOs) will face Marcos Hernandez (16-6-2, 3 KOs) in an eight-round middleweight bout. The 25-year-old looks to build off a successful 2023, including a unanimous decision verdict over Mexican veteran Vladimir Hernandez in November.

Heavyweight prospect Brandon Moore (13-0, 8 KOs) takes on Helaman Olguin (9-6-1, 4 KOs) in an eight-rounder. Moore returns following his Top Rank debut in November, an eight-round decision over Robert Simms.

Floyd Diaz (10-0, 3 KOs) puts his unbeaten record on the line in an eight-round bantamweight tilt against the upset-minded Puerto Rican Edwin Rodriguez (12-7-2, 5 KOs). Diaz decisioned once-beaten Max Ornelas for a regional title in November.

Middleweight prospect NicoAli Walsh (9-1, 5 KOs) will make his 2024 debut in a six-rounder against an opponent to be named. The grandson of “The Greatest” starts his 2024 following a points triumph over Noel Lafargue last December in Conakry, Guinea.

Junior welterweight prospect Bryce Mills (14-1, 5 KOs), who hails from nearby Liverpool, New York, will square off against Gerffred Ngayot (6-1, 5 KOs) in a six-rounder.

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About Turning Stone Resort Casino
Host of the March 2 event, Turning Stone Resort Casino is a Forbes Four-Star Award-winning destination resort, which continues to distinguish itself as a premier destination for major boxing events that are broadcast around the world. Boxing hall-of-famers and legends of the sport have attended fights, promoted cards, or fought at Turning Stone over the last two decades, including Oscar De La Hoya, Floyd Mayweather Jr., Miquel Cotto, Mike Tyson selected Turning Stone as the venue for his world debut as a promoter, and Muhammad Ali’s daughter Laila Ali made her boxing debut at Turning Stone and attended a fight in 2022 when she was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

Turning Stone is the Official Resort Casino of the International Boxing Hall of Fame Weekend, an international event celebrating boxing legends and current superstars in the sport. Throughout the year, Turning Stone and the Boxing Hall of Fame attract thousands of boxing fans, Hall of Famers and sports media to the region for a series of boxing events at Turning Stone that culminate in June with the International Boxing Hall of Fame Weekend. 

Turning Stone features world-class amenities including NY Rec & Social Club, featuring TS Sports, a state-of-the-art sports book and elevated sports lounge, five hotels, more than 20 signature dining options, two spas, a 125,000 square foot Las Vegas style gaming floor, multiple entertainment venues, five golf courses, and several bars and lounges offering live entertainment every weekend.  

New York, NY (January 24, 2024) The Fastest Rising Star in Boxing, Undefeated Super Welterweight, ‘King’ Callum Walsh, (9-0, 7 KOs), of Cork, Ireland will battle on St. Patrick’s Day Weekend, Friday, March 15 against hard-hitting Kazak veteran Dauren Yeleussinov, (11-3-1, 10 KOs) in the ten-round main event at The Theater at Madison Square Garden and broadcast live globally on UFC FIGHT PASS, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports.

Walsh vs. Yeleussinov is promoted by Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions as part of their nationally acclaimed Hollywood Fight Nights series. Tickets starting at $45 are Now On-Sale and can be purchased at MSG.com.

“Following Callum’s impressive performance before an energetic crowd on November 9 in his debut at Madison Square Garden, we started making plans for him to headline again on a truly special New York City Irish weekend,” said Tom Loeffler, President of 360 Promotions. “Dauren Yeleussinov presents another tough test for Callum in the main event and we look forward to announcing an action-packed undercard featuring some of the top New York City based fighters.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Callum Walsh back to The Theater at Madison Square Garden for another exciting night of boxing at ‘The Mecca’,” said Joel Fisher, executive vice president, Marquee Events & Operations, MSG Entertainment.  “Callum follows in the footsteps of some of Ireland’s biggest stars – John Duddy, Andy Lee, Matthew Macklin and Michael Conlan with fighting at Madison Square Garden on St. Patrick’s Day weekend and we expect to welcome back the loyal Irish fans.”

Headlining at The Mecca of Boxing on Thursday, November 9, 2023, Walsh made a strong impression on the raucous boxing crowd in the famed venue with a dominant ten-round decision over top local prospect Ismael Villarreal, (13-1).

The March 15 event at Madison Square Garden will be the second straight year Walsh has celebrated St. Patrick’s Day with a headlining fight, previously defeating Wesley Tucker on March 16, 2023 at the Agganis Arena in Boston, MA in front of a huge contingent of Irish boxing fans.

Following a sensational 2023 with four victories, three by knockout, Walsh was named the Prospect of the Year by the World Boxing Council (WBC) in addition to being honored as the UFC FIGHT PASS Athlete of the Year.

A native of Kayindy, Kazakhstan and brother of 2016 Olympic Gold Medalist Daniyar Yelussinov, Dauren considers Brooklyn, New York his second home. Fighting in Almaty, Kazakhstan on March 21, 2023, the southpaw Yelussinov knocked out Bakhrom Payazov in the second round. Seven of his ten knockouts have come in the first two rounds.

LIVERPOOL, UK (January 24, 2024) – A huge television audience tuned in to watch Natasha Jonas defend her IBF World Welterweight Title against Mikaela Mayer on Saturday, January 20th live on Sky Sports.

It was described as the ‘Hagler vs Hearns’ of women’s boxing in the build-up and did not fail to deliver as Jonas edged a split decision victory (96-94, 93-97, 96-95) to retain her IBF World Title in an epic back-and-forth battle against the former IBF and WBO World Super Featherweight Champion Mayer.

The incredible contest, which has already been lauded as one of the greatest fights in women’s boxing history and has left many fans calling for a rematch, attracted a peak audience of 269,000 and an average audience of 149,000, making it one of the most watched women’s boxing events on Sky Sports.

BOXXER Founder and CEO Ben Shalom said: “Natasha Jonas and Mikaela Mayer put it all on the line to deliver one of the greatest fights I’ve had the privilege of watching from ringside. The atmosphere inside the arena was electric and I am delighted that so many people tuned in live on Sky Sports to witness their epic world title tussle.

“At BOXXER we want to be a force for good for women’s boxing. We will continue to provide a platform and opportunities for female fighters to showcase their skills on the biggest stage. From our record-breaking women’s night in 2022 to last Saturday’s world title fight, I’m proud of what we’ve achieved so far.

“The viewing figures speak for themselves. 269,000 viewers tuning in to watch Natasha defend her world title shows there’s a huge demand for women’s boxing and I look forward to many more big fight nights featuring our female stars in the future.”

The BOXXER schedule continues on Saturday, February 3rd when unbeaten world ranked #1 and #2 light heavyweights Joshua Buatsi and Dan Azeez collide in a WBA World Title Final Eliminator at the OVO Arena Wembley in London, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

COMMERCE, CA (January 24, 2024) – Former World Champion Joseph “JoJo” Diaz Jr. (33-4-1, 15 KOs) of South El Monte will kick off the first Golden Boy Fight Night on DAZN card of 2024 in a 10-round super lightweight main event against the tough Jesus “Ricky” Perez (24-5, 18 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico. The action will take place at The Commerce Casino & Hotel and will be broadcast worldwide on DAZN at 6:00 p.m. PT.

“I am excited to let the boxing world know I’m back on track,” said Joseph “JoJo” Diaz. “My comeback continues on February 15. After this, I want all the top guys.”

“I would like to thank Golden Boy and my promoter Paco Damian for believing in me and giving me this great opportunity,” said Jesus Perez. “I know how important this fight is for me, a win over JoJo Diaz would open many great opportunities. I am working extremely hard to put on a great performance. One thing for sure, the fans are going to get their money’s worth. It is going to be a war!”

“Throughout his career, JoJo has defied the odds — competing at the Olympics, defeating undefeated fighters, and winning a world championship,” said Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Oscar De La Hoya. “Now he is taking his second step back towards title contention, and I see the renewed focus in his eyes as he takes one more run at championship glory.”

Tickets for Diaz vs. Perez will go on sale today, Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. PT and are priced at $200, $150, $100, $50 and $30 plus applicable fees. A limited amount of Golden Boy VIP Experience upgrades will also be available for purchase with exclusive merchandise and fight night upgrades included. Standard and VIP tickets can be purchased at GoldenBoyPromotions.com.

“The Commerce Casino & Hotel is absolutely thrilled to be welcoming back Golden Boy to our property,” shared Spencer Villasenor, Director of Guest Experience. “We’ve recently upgraded our incredible event center and look forward to another production of the highest quality with the Golden Boy team.”

In the co-main event, Ricardo “El Niño” Sandoval (23-2, 16 KOs) of Rialto, who was recently ranked number 10 on ESPN’s Top 25 under 25 list, will participate in a 10-round flyweight event. Also on the DAZN broadcast, Fort Lauderdale, Florida’s Eric Tudor (9-1, 6 KOs) will make a redemptive return in a six-round super welterweight fight. Opening the DAZN broadcast, San Diego’s Jorge “El Niño Dorado” Chavez (9-0, 7 KOs) will participate in a six-round super bantamweight fight. Opponents for each and the complete undercard will be announced in the coming weeks.

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Golden Boy Fight Night on DAZN is presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The event is available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

Media interested in a credential for the fight must fill out a credential application by Monday, February 12. To apply, please visit https://forms.gle/BWn6AfZcwmrjNvA66. 

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

TOPPENISH, WASHINGTON (January 23, 2023)  —  Roy Jones Jr., legendary world champion boxer and now trainer and promoter, will have two of his prized fighters headline an action-packed fight card at Legends Casino in Toppenish, Washington on January 25, 2024. The fight card will be promoted by Roy Jones Jr Boxing and streamed live on DAZN, beginning at 10 pm ET / 7 pm PT.

If not a present DAZN subscriber, go to www.dazn.com/royjones to sign up!

In the main event, hometown favorite, undefeated Yakima born Andrew Murphy will fight in an eight-round bout defending his National Boxing Association (NBA) Super Middleweight Americas title. In the co-main event Mandeep Jangra, former Commonwealth Games and Asian Games Silver Medalist, will fight for the NBA vacant Intercontinental Super Featherweight title in a ten-round bout.

Both train at Roy Jones Jr.’s camp on his farm in Pensacola.  “It’s like a family thing, said Murphy, who has been training there since the beginning of the pandemic. “When we are not in the gym, we’re out on the farm helping with the animals. It’s like a zoo – horses, sheep, goats, chickens, deer, and alligators in the pond.”

Andrew Murphy (7-0, 5 KOs) was born in nearby Yakima, Washington an d January 25 will be the twenty-three-year-old’s third fight at Legends Casino. His opponent will be local talent Devontae McDonald (5-3, 1 KO” from nearby Wenatchee, Washington.

Regarding having Jones as a trainer, Murphy stated, “He’s the OG in the game. He’s done it all and he has an answer for every question that I have. He teaches me some of the things that he did and some can see that when I fight. Any way we can implement his moves into my game is a plus. But more importantly, he trains me to be the best version of myself, as he does with all of his guys his guys, to be the best version of themselves. On Thursday, my plan is to go dominate. By any means. Whatever he tries to do we have a plan for. I know it’s going to be an entertaining fight that’s for sure.”

Mandeep Jangra (6-0, 4 KOs), born and raised in Kharian, India, had a wonderful amateur career highlighted by winning Silver Medals at the Asian Amateur Boxing Championships and the Commonwealth Games. This will be Mandeep’s fourth bout under Jones’ tutelage. He will fight a scheduled ten-rounds against Tacoma Washington’s finest, Gerardo Esqivel (5-3-1, 1 KO)

“I am very excited because this is my first title fight and it’s my first fight that is live on DAZN,” said Jangra. “I am good with my weight. I am good with my training. I am right at 130. I’ve been working with Roy for eleven months. Roy works on my skills. I had some skills, but he polished them – so now I fight like a pro boxer. I’ve been working on how I use my feet to get the most out of my hook and my power. I have changed my boxing style some and improved a lot. Before I didn’t throw many combinations, maybe three or four punches at most and in my last fight I threw a thirteen-punch combination, and I couldn’t believe it myself.”

Promoted by Roy Jones Jr. Boxing, tickets, priced at $60, $50 and $40, are on sale now and can be purchased in person at the Legends Casino Gift Shop or on-line at Ticketmaster HERE

Doors open at 6 pm and first bell will be at 7 pm PT.

“I am very happy to be promoting again back at Legends Casino with my good friend Greg Fritz and the rest of the fine people that work there. Legends provides me and my fighters with wonder hospitality,” said Jones. “I will be bringing with me some treats. One of them is Mandeep Jangra. However many rounds Mandeep fight lasts, they will be exciting rounds. The second is Andrew Murphy, who brings power and aggression and is always looking for the knockout. I am really looking forward to January 25.”

The fight card will also include some LOCAL BOXING TALENT. Union Gap Washington’s Carlos Villanueva (5-3, 1 KO) will attempt to knock off Bend, Oregon’s undefeated Alberto Rivas (4-0, 1 KO) in a six-round cruiserweight scrap; in a six-round super welterweight bout, Kamar Bray (3-0) from Deerfield Beach, Florida and trained by Stacy McKinley, will battle Kevin Davila (5-11) from Lakewood, Washington; and in a six-round super clash of undefeateds, Mount Vernon’s Luis Gallegos (5-0, 2 KOs) battles fellow Washingtonian Josue Cadena (3-0, 1 KO).  Opening the card will be twolocals making their pro debut in a four-round super welterweight bout, Bryce Wyatt and Gerardo Ceresero.

ROY JONES JR. was world champion at middleweight, super middleweight, light heavyweight (undisputed) and in 2003 became the first former middleweight world champion to become world heavyweight champion in over 106 years when he beat John Ruiz to win the title. Throughout that stretch he was recognized as the No. 1 pound-for-pound boxer in the world.