DETROIT – January 18, 2024 – Salita Promotions will launch the inaugural “Big Time Boxing USA” event streaming live on DAZN with an action-packed night of fights on Tuesday, February 20 headlined by a 10-round all-Michigan showdown as Flint’s Ardreal Holmes Jr. defends his USBA Super Welterweight Championship against Detroit’s Marlon Harrington topping a card from Wayne State Fieldhouse in Detroit.

February 20 will be the first “Big Time Boxing USA” event in a deal between Salita Promotions and DAZN to present a combination of talent development and championship cards. The live streaming action kicks off at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will also see unbeaten USBA Light Heavyweight Champion Ali Izmailov face Britton Norwood in a 10-round bout in the co-main event.

Action on DAZN will also feature a battle of unbeatens, as Grand Rapids-native and U.S. National Amateur Champion standout Joshua Pagan battles Detroit’s Dwane Taylor in an eight-round lightweight bout, plus undefeated Dearborn-native Da’Velle Smith competes in a six-round middleweight affair.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and can be purchased online HERE or in-person at the Wayne State Fieldhouse Box Office. This will be the first boxing event at Wayne State Fieldhouse, the home to the Detroit Pistons’ G-League affiliate, the Motor City Cruise, and comes after Salita Promotions delivered the first boxing event ever at Little Caesars Arena, the home of the Pistons, in June 2023.

“I’m very excited about the partnership with DAZN and the ability to promote our fighters to a worldwide audience,” said Dmitriy Salita, President of Salita Promotions. “We are starting the “Big Time Boxing USA” series in one of boxing’s historic cities, which for decades was synonymous with the champions of Detroit, and at one of the city’s premier venues, the Wayne State Fieldhouse. I look forward to showcasing and developing boxing’s top talent in exciting matchups.”

“We are looking forward to working with Salita Promotions once again,” said Alfie Sharman, VP, DAZN. “With Dmitriy’s exciting stable, coupled with our best in class production and knowledge of the sport, we feel that together we can create something very special with these shows.”

Additional bouts on the undercard will see unbeaten Grand Rapids-native and USA Olympic Team Captain Joseph Hicks Jr. (9-0, 6 KOs) in a six-round super welterweight contest, unbeaten WBO Intercontinental Light Heavyweight Champion Juan Carrillo (11-0, 8 KOs), coming off a win against fellow unbeaten Richard Vansiclen to face Florida’s Jose Cortes (10-4, 3 KOs) in an eight-round attraction and Mount Clemens’ Luis Quintero (7-0, 7 KOs) looking to stay unbeaten in a four-round super lightweight fight.

The 29-year-old Holmes Jr. (14-0, 5 KOs),  known in the ring as “Bossman,” is a 6’ 2” southpaw and 2016 U.S. Olympic alternate coming off a trio of impressive professional victories as his competition has increased. He earned 10-round unanimous decisions over Vernon Brown in 2022 and Ismael Villarreal in February 2023 before capturing his title in his most recent bout in June in Detroit. This outing saw Holmes emerge victorious via a technical decision over Wendy Toussaint, after a cut suffered by his opponent due to an accidental headbutt halted the fight in round eight.

“I’m thankful and very excited to be having my first title defense in my home state,” said Holmes. “The fans are going to be the winner on February 20, because this fight, and the whole card, are going to be action packed. I’m going to show all the fans in Detroit and watching on DAZN who the best guy at 154 pounds is. This performance is gonna put the whole division on notice.”

Trained in his hometown at Detroit’s World’s Best Boxing Gym, Harrington (10-1, 9 KOs) enters this fight off of back-to-back stoppage victories following a decision loss to Marquis Taylor in 2022. The 31-year-old dispatched of the previously unbeaten Gheith Karim in the first round in June, an impressive performance that he followed up by stopping veteran Ramses Agaton in round three in September.

“Training camp is in full swing and there’s no better way to start the year than to bring the title back home to Detroit,” said Harrington. “The fans can expect fireworks in this one. I’m coming to light up the ring for sure on February 20. Get your popcorn!”

Originally from Russia, residing in Detroit and trained in Miami with John David Jackson, Izmailov (11-0, 7 KOs) took another step toward contender status by picking up his belt with a unanimous decision over then unbeaten Charles Foster in June, establishing himself as a future force in the division. The 30-year-old owns two impressive victories in 2022, taking down previously unbeaten opponents Abraham Tebes and world rated Eric Murguia.

“My long-term goal is simple, to be the Undisputed Light Heavyweight World Champion,” said Izmailov. “I prepare seriously for every fight and I’m working hard with my trainer John David Jackson in Florida. I plan to showcase my skills and get one step closer to fighting the division’s best.”

Norwood (13-4-1, 10 KOs) will enter this matchup on a three-fight winning streak, including a first round knockout of the then once-beaten Nicolas Masseroni in April of last year. Originally from Jackson, Mississippi and now fighting out of Las Vegas, Norwood has won seven of his last eight outings, including a decision over the previously unbeaten Andrei Odintsov in February 2020.

“I’m training with former world champion Joel Casamayor for this fight, and I believe that it’s going to be the difference on February 20,” said Norwood. “There’s only one reason I’m taking this fight, and that’s to step into the ring on fight night and take Izmailov’s head off and walk out of there with his belt.”

The 23-year-old Pagan (9-0, 4 KOs) was prolific in 2023, earning five victories, including a third-round stoppage of previously unbeaten Ronnell Burnett in June. He began the move down to lightweight in his last bout as he shutout Braulio Rodriguez across six-rounds in October. Pagan won the 2021 U.S. Amateur Welterweight National Championship with a unanimous decision over Keon Davis and followed that up by turning pro in January 2022.

Taylor (7-0, 7 KOs) has stopped every opponent he’s faced since turning pro in September 2021, and will step up in competition to challenge Pagan on February 20. All seven of Taylor’s wins have come in his hometown of Detroit, including his most recent triumph that saw him stop Carlo Nunez in two rounds last February.

Unbeaten since turning pro in 2021, Smith (7-0, 6 KOs) burst onto the scene by winning the WBC’s inaugural Big Belt Championship with a first round knockout of Ricky Evans. The 23-year-old has continued his winning ways since then, picking up three triumphs in 2023. He stopped the previously unbeaten Kahydlian Woods and veterans Gyorgy Mizsei and Dedrick Bell last year as he hopes to launch himself into contender status in 2024.

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ABOUT SALITA PROMOTIONS

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

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

Montréal, Québec, Canada – 17 janvier 2024 — L’année 2024 marque la 20^e année de la fondation de Groupe Yvon Michel. Durant cette période GYM a organisé 171 événements, dont 72 au prestigieux et unique Cabaret du Casino de Montréal.  GYM a aussi présenté le nombre record de 57 combats de championnat du monde et a produit 8 champions du monde. Durant toute l’année 2024, GYM va célébrer !  À chaque événement, il y aura des cérémonies spéciales pour souligner ses accomplissements et ses anciens champions. Les détails seront publiés incessamment.

GYM a des projets pour présenter une année spectaculaire et fertile en émotions avec des boxeurs de chez nous. Déjà trois dates sont à l’affiche au Casino de Montréal; les 14 mars, 4 avril et 16 mai prochains.

Casino de Montréal, 14 mars, en vedette Mathieu Germain (23-2-1, 9 K.-O.)

C’est l’aspirant mondial et champion IBF Intercontinental des super-légers, Mathieu « G-Time » Germain qui sera la vedette principale du premier gala de GYM, le 14 mars au Cabaret du Casino de Montréal. Germain qui détient le 9^e rang des aspirants à l’IBF a toujours l’ambition d’obtenir une opportunité de combattre en championnat du monde. Tant qu’il sera actif et victorieux, il sera en mesure d’améliorer sa position internationale et améliorer ses chances. Mathieu connaît une séquence de cinq gains consécutifs qui s’est amorcée avec une victoire sur Steve Claggett (37-7-2, 25 K.-O.), en mai 2021. Mathieu sera prêt pour les prochains défis : « C’est vraiment formidable de retourner au boulot et faire ce que je sais le mieux faire; boxer. Je cogne à la porte de gros combats, let’s go! »

Casino de Montréal, 4 avril, en vedette l’ex championne WBC Kim Clavel (17-2, 3 K.-O.)

Kim Clavel a été la pugiliste québécoise qui a connu les plus grandes émotions en 2023. Elle a livré trois combats de championnat du monde à ses quatre dernières présences sur le ring dont deux combats avec deux ceintures majeures à l’enjeu. Même si elle a échappé de justesse son dernier combat, elle demeure parmi les meilleures boxeuses au monde non seulement de sa division mais aussi de toutes catégories confondues. Le 4 avril, est un nouveau départ pour la native de Joliette qui renoue avec le Cabaret du Casino de Montréal, où elle a connu ses plus grands succès. Elle est actuellement, à Cuba, en camp d’entraînement, avec des entraîneurs de l’endroit et elle participe à des entraînements avec l’équipe nationale féminine de Cuba. « Le 4 avril, je serai de retour sur le ring » de dire la charismatique Kim. « Ma passion pour le sport y est toujours. Le chemin n’est pas toujours simple mais boxer c’est ce que j’aime, et boxer c’est ce que je vais faire. À bientôt, je retourne sous la chaleur de la Havane pour un autre entrainement. »  Son retour à Montréal est prévu pour le 12 février.

Casino de Montréal, 16 mai, en vedette Mazlum Akdeniz (19-0, 8 K.-O.)

Le champion de la WBC international des mi-moyens et invaincu en 19 combats professionnels. Mazlum Akdeniz, de Longueuil, veut poursuivre dans la même veine. Le gaucher de 26 ans vient de remporter un combat très émotif contre l’excellent Sébastien Bouchard de Québec, à son dernier combat. En 2024, il entend démontrer qu’il appartient à l’élite de la division. Mazlum qui est un protégé de Moe Latif du gymnase Ring 83 a également ouvert son propre gymnase de boxe à Longueuil. L’endroit est devenu populaire rapidement et les nouveaux adeptes de l’entraînement de boxe y sont nombreux. « J’ai vraiment hâte de remonter sur le ring du Casino le 16 mai prochain et je suis surtout heureux d’y faire la finale pour la troisième fois de ma carrière. Merci à Yvon et GYM de croire en moi et de me redonner cette opportunité. 2023 fut une belle année, 2024 sera encore meilleure. » de dire enthousiaste le longueuillois.

Marie-Pier Houle, Caroline Veyre, Derek Pomerleau, Abed El Safadi

Les adversaires des finalistes et les autres combats seront annoncés d’ici quelques jours, mais il est assuré que les aspirantes mondiales Marie-Pier Houle (9-1-1, 2 K.-O.), Caroline Veyre (6- 0,  0 K.-O.) le jeune espoir local, Derek Pomerleau (6-0, 4 K.-O.) et le populaire Abed El Safadi (6 – 0 , 2 K.-O.) feront partie de l’un ou plusieurs des ces programmes. D’autres boxeurs locaux y seront également ajoutés. Le matchmaker de GYM, l’excellent Vincent Morin est déjà au travail.

Billets en vente :

Les billets seront en vente et disponibles à compter du 26 mars prochain sur www.ticketmaster.ca et directement chez GYM à info@groupeyvonmichel.ca. Il sera possible d’acheter des forfaits pour 2 ou les 3 événements combinés.

Les galas de GYM sont une présentation de Mise-O-Jeu en collaboration avec Bell Média.

À propos de Groupe Yvon Michel (GYM)

Groupe Yvon Michel est une organisation de promotion de boxe professionnelle, fondée en 2004 par Yvon Michel, Alexandra Croft et Bernard Barré, toujours actifs au sein de la compagnie la plus prolifique de l’histoire de la boxe professionnelle au Canada. Depuis sa fondation, GYM a mis sur pied 171 galas au Québec, tous télédiffusés au Québec sur RDS, TVA Sports ou Radio-Canada, et participé à 37 galas internationaux à l’extérieur du Québec. Huit boxeurs sont devenus champions du monde, Joachim Alcine, Jean Pascal, Adonis Stevenson, Artur Beterbiev, Eleider Alvarez, Marie-Eve Dicaire (2 fois), Oscar Rivas et Kim Clavel. 19 boxeurs de l’organisation ont livré 57 combats de championnat du monde conservant une excellente fiche de 30 victoires, 25 revers et 2 nulles. Durant cette période, les grands réseaux de télévision américains ont été plus actifs que jamais à venir au Québec afin de télédiffuser les événements les plus importants de l’organisation.

PHOENIX, ARIZONA (January 17, 2024) – Golden Boy Promotions has assembled a knockout undercard – including two, world championship defenses and scheduled performances of the next generation of top talent – for the main event clash between undefeated, former World Champion Jaime Munguía (42-0, 33 KOs) and former Interim World Champion John “The Gorilla” Ryder (32-6, 18 KOs) of the U.K. The 12-round super middleweight clash for the WBC Silver Title is presented in co-promotion with Zanfer Boxing and Matchroom Boxing and will take place at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona on Saturday, January 27 and broadcast worldwide on DAZN beginning at 6:00 p.m. MST/ 5:00 p.m. PST.

In the co-main event, presented in association with Miguel Cotto Promotions, Villalba, Puerto Rico’s history-making Oscar “El Pupilo” Collazo (8-0, 6 KOs) will defend his WBO Minimumweight World Championship title against Reyneris Gutierrez (10-1, 2 KOs) of Matagalpa, Nicaragua. Scheduled for 12-rounds, Collazo is returning to the ring after a dazzling, knockout victory over Garen Diagan in front of his hometown crowd in Puerto Rico.

“With less than a week away for my second world title defense, I feel great and at my best moment,” said Oscar Collazo. “As always, we are very prepared and focused on what we are going to do on January 27 and leave the ring with our hand-raised. We have a good plan in place like all our previous fights, and we are ready to entertain in front of the people of Arizona, Puerto Rico, and on DAZN. Thank you, Miguel Cotto Promotions and Golden Boy for the opportunity to be on such a big card featuring a spectacular main event between Jaime Munguia and John Ryder.”

On the DAZN Broadcast, knockout superstar in-the-making Darius “DFG” Fulghum (9-0, 9 KOs) will be defending his WBA Continental USA Super Middleweight Title against the crafty Alantez “SlyAza” Fox (28-5-1, 13 KOs) in a 10-round contest. Co-promoted with Sampson Boxing, IBF Female Flyweight World Champion Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora (12-0, 5 KOs) of Coachella Valley, California will defend her newly minted hardware in a 10-round combat against Christina Cruz (6-0, 0 KOs) of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Opening the DAZN broadcast, Mexico City’s David Picasso Romero (26-0-1, 15 KOs) will participate in a 10-round super bantamweight fight against Erik Ruiz (17-9-1, 7 KOs) of Oxnard, California.

On the preliminary card, Daniel “Junebug” Garcia (7-0, 5 KOs) of Denver, Colorado will participate in a six-round lightweight match against Phoenix, Arizona’s Daniel Lugo (4-1, 1 KOs). Gregory Morales (15-1, 9 KOs) of San Antonio, Texas will challenge Ronal Ron (14-4, 11 KOs) of Chino Hills, California in an eight-round super bantamweight fight. In a four-round bantamweight, former Mexican Olympian Gael “El Terror” Cabrera (3-0, 2 KOs) will measure up against Miguel Ceballos (2-0, 2 KOs) of Peoria, Arizona . Opening the fight night festivities with a four-round bantamweight fight, Johnny “Sugarcane” Cañas (2-0, 2 KOs) of Santa Ana, California will face Oakland, California’s William Davis (2-1-1, 1 KO).

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Munguía vs. Ryder is a 12-round fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions in co-promotion with Zanfer Boxing and Matchroom Boxing. Collazo vs. Gutierrez is a 12-round fight for the WBO Minimumweight World Championship presented in association with Miguel Cotto Promotions. Fundora vs. Cruz is a 10-round fight for the IBF Female Flyweight World Championship and is presented in co-promotion with Sampson Boxing. The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

Media interested in covering the fight can apply at: https://www.emccredentials.com/munguia_ryder. Applications are due by Monday, January 22. No late applications will be accepted.
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Tickets for Munguía vs. Ryder are on sale and are priced at $200, $150, $100, $75, $50 and $30 plus applicable fees. A limited amount of Golden Boy VIP Experience tickets will also be available for purchase with exclusive merchandise and fight night upgrades included. Standard and VIP tickets can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com or GoldenBoyPromotions.com.

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 #GarciaDuarte

Jan 17, 2024

Top Rank Presents IBF World Welterweight Championship:

Natasha Jonas vs. Mikaela Mayer

Saturday, January 20, 2:00 p.m. ET/ 11:00 a.m. PT

Live and Exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+

Image

ESPN+ Available on ESPN.com and ESPN App on Mobile and Connected TV Devices

To Subscribe Visit ESPNPlus.com/Top Rank

Top Rank Boxing on ESPN presented by AutoZone: Jonas vs. Mayer will be presented live on Saturday, January 20, at 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT, exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+. The event takes place at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, England.

In the main event, two-weight world champion Natasha Jonas will defend her IBF welterweight world title against former unified world champion Mikaela Mayer.

Having previously unified the WBC, WBO and IBF junior middleweight world titles, Jonas (14-2-1, 9 KOs) will be making the first defense of her welterweight crown, which she claimed after scoring an emphatic stoppage win over Canadian Kandi Wyatt last year.

Mayer (19-1, 5 KOs), a fellow Olympian and former IBF, WBO, and Ring Magazine junior lightweight world champion, moves up in weight once again as she attempts to become a two-division world champ.

In other streaming action on ESPN+, Jack Cullen (22-4-1, 10 KOs) returns to defend his British and Commonwealth super middleweight titles against former foe Zak Chelli (14-2-1, 7 KOs).

Calling the Action will be Hall of Famer Timothy Bradley, Jr. and Bernardo Osuna.

ESPN+: On Demand Shows, Archives & Premium Articles

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

Jonas vs. Mayer (All Times ET)

Date
Time
Event
Fights
Title
Platform
Sat., Jan 20
2:00 p.m.
Main
Natasha Jonas (C) vs. Mikaela Mayer
IBF Welterweight

ESPN+

Co-Feature
Jack Cullen vs. Zak Chelli

Undercard
Karriss Artingstall vs. Lila Dos Santos Furtado
Undercard
Aaron McKenna vs. Linus Udofia
About ESPN

About ESPN+

(Jan. 17, 2024) — WBC No. 1 junior welterweight contender Sandor Martin has signed a multi-fight co-promotional pact with Top Rank. Martin’s longtime promoter, OPI Since 82, and Top Rank are joining forces to secure the Spaniard his first world title shot. 

Two-weight world champion and pound-for-pound force Devin “The Dream” Haney is the current WBC junior welterweight world champion.

“Devin Haney calls himself ‘The Dream,’ but I am his worst nightmare. I will be the next WBC junior welterweight world champion. Whether he wants to lose his title to me in the ring or run up the scales to welterweight, the choice is his,” Martin said. “I am excited for the next chapter of my career with OPI Since 82 and Top Rank in my corner.”

“We are glad to have the support of Top Rank for Sandor’s next fights. He already proved his worth with Mikey Garcia and Teofimo Lopez,” said Christian Cherchi of OPI Since 82. “Next step will be the green belt!”

“We’ve had a front-row seat to Sandor Martin’s immense talent, and Top Rank is thrilled to be partnering with OPI Since 82 to help Sandor receive his well-deserved world title opportunity,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum.  

Martin (42-3, 15 KOs) is a former European junior welterweight champion and a 13-year pro whose only defeats have come via narrow points verdicts. After spending the first decade of his career fighting primarily in Spain, the slick-moving southpaw authored the 2021 Upset of the Year when he toppled former four-weight world champion Garcia by majority decision in Fresno, California. 

Following a 10-round split decision defeat to Lopez in December 2022, Martin notched a pair of knockout victories in 2023 to maintain his status as one of the world’s top 140-pound practitioners.  

Wasserman Boxing, in association with Ladbrokes, Numan and Infinitum, delivered a series of sensational fight nights in 2023 that were watched by millions on free-to-air television. 

And today, it can be confirmed that Wasserman’s 2024 schedule launches with a contest that will stake an early claim for Fight of the Year, as Baraou faces ‘The Savage’ Eggington in Telford. 

Baraou is Germany’s world-ranked former amateur star with designs on global domination, while Eggington is a British boxing cult hero after a barnstorming career packed with memorable blood and guts fights and title wins. 

Twice a winner of the domestic Fight of the Year, Eggington is bidding to become a two-weight EBU European champion, but Baraou has outstanding pedigree and is ready to live up to his billing as one of the best fighters of his generation from Germany. 

This tantilising clash of styles is certain to produce yet another fight that fans will go crazy for, live and free on Channel 5.  

Abass Baraou said: “I am incredibly motivated after finally confirming my shot at the European title and I can promise you that I won’t let this chance slip through my fingers. 

“Winning the prestigious European title on March 1 will be a major step on my mission to becoming a world champion and I plan on putting on a performance that sends out a statement to rest of the division. 

“Everyone in boxing knows that Sam Eggington is a warrior and has been in some great fights in his career, and our clash of styles will make for another thriller but make no mistake, I will emerge victorious.” 

Sam Eggington said: “March 1 in Telford is the night I write the next chapter in my crazy boxing story.  My fans will pack out the arena and roar me on to become a two-weight European champion. 

“I always deliver must-see fights, I have done so all of my career, but this one against Baraou could be the best yet.  Whether you’re at ringside or watching live on Channel 5, you’re in for one hell of a fight. 

“Baraou may have international amateur medals, just like Frankie Gavin did when we fought, but he has never faced a fighter like me, over 12 gruelling rounds, where I don’t let him breathe for a second.” 

BIG FIGHT ODDS WITH LADBROKES 

Abass Baraou – 4/7 
Sam Eggington – 11/8 
Draw – 18/1 

Kalle Sauerland, Global Head of Boxing at Wasserman, said: “What a way to start our big fight schedule for 2024! 

“Baraou vs Eggington is an absolute banger of a fight and we’re staging it at a venue which always lends itself to creating a great atmosphere. 

“Abass is one of the best super welterweights in the world, and winning the European title will act as a launchpad to world honours. 

“But Eggington is a British boxing hero who shows incredible bravery, toughness and a granite chin, time after time after time. 

“Last year was a record-setting one for Wasserman Boxing on Channel 5, with millions of people tuning in to watch our events, and so we are setting our stall out for 2024 with this humdinger on March 1 in Telford.”  

Alex Apati of Ladbrokes said: “Boxing fans the world over are being treated to a cracking night of action to kick off 2024, and Ladbrokes is once again extremely proud to play a part in things.  
“Abass Baraou has been tipped by many for great things – world titles, even – but it’s safe to say he’ll be up against it in Telford as Sam Eggington will head into the ring with the local backing, and then some.” 

He added: “Baraou got the job done early last time he fought on British soil, but it takes a lot to knock down The Savage… all signs point towards another exhilarating night of Channel 5 boxing in March.” 

LONG BEACH, CA (January 16, 2024) – CBN Promotions’ boxing series will kick off 2024 with “Super Brawl Saturday” this February 10th at Thunder Studios in Long Beach, California. In the 10-round super featherweight main event, Austin Brooks (11-0, 4 KOs), from La Mesa, CA, will square off against Jose Luis Rodriguez (25-15-1, 13 KOs), from Monterey, MX. The 8-round co-main event will showcase Tayden Beltran (7-0-1, 4 KOs), from Huntington Beach, CA, vs. an opponent to be announced, in a lightweight bout.

Doors open and the first bell for “Super Brawl Saturday” at 5:00 pm PT. Tickets priced $50, $75, $100, $150 (Plus applicable fees), are available for purchase now by calling 800-283-8699, by text at 702-591-1638, or online at www.cbnpromotions.com. Thunder Studios is located at 20434 S Santa Fe Ave, Long Beach, CA 90810

“We want to start the year with a bang!” said Alex Camponovo, President of CBN Promotions. “2024 should be a great year for us and the boxers featured on our show, we will expand our brand to give fans the best and most entertaining matches out there. For that reason, we are excited to announce that our events will also air live on FuboTV as we continue to reach more people in the U.S. and internationally.”

“Super Brawl Saturday” will mark the beginning of an exclusive television deal between CBN Sports and Entertainment and FuboTV, which will air all of CBN’s events live, in addition to their event’s library. “We are proud that FuboTV is now part of our television distribution plan that includes Fox Deportes, Estrella TV and FightStars Network, and we will not stop there. Our boxers and fans will benefit with the tremendous outreach and television platforms we are creating,” concluded Camponovo.

“Brace yourselves for an incredible journey as we elevate our boxing series production and reach larger audiences,” stated Rolando Nichols, President of Thunder Studios. “Our aim is to extend an invitation to the Long Beach community and neighboring cities for all our shows. This is a family-friendly atmosphere where everyone can enjoy an exceptional evening filled with thrilling boxing matches.”

UNDERCARD BOUTS:

Super lightweight Leonardo Rubalcava (4-0, 1 KO) from Jurupa Valley, CA, will face an opponent TBA. (6-rounds).

Super flyweight Stephanie Chavez (3-0) from Orange, CA, will battle Hailey Pasion (2-4) of Waipahu, HI. (6-rounds).

Super bantamweight Hector Lopez (3-0, 2 KOs) of Compton, CA, will face Rod Sarguilla (2-4), from Midsayap, Philippines. (6-rounds).

Opening up the show will be Jose Bravo (2-0, 2 KOs), from Los Angeles, CA, vs. an opponent TBA. (4-rounds).

This event is sponsored by HUSTLER Casino – LA’s only luxury Casino. Tequila Mandala – 100% Agave Azul, and Shoe Palace, Community comes first.

LOS ANGELES, CA (January 16, 2024): Golden Boy Promotions announced today a co-promotional deal with Sampson Boxing for 21-year-old IBF Female Flyweight World Champion Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora (12-0, 5 KOs). Fundora is scheduled to defend her IBF title against Christina Cruz on the DAZN broadcast for Jaime Munguia vs. John Ryder on Saturday, January 27.

“I am ready and prepared for my first title defense and I feel like nothing can stop me from winning,” said Gabriela Fundora. “Christina Cruz is a good fighter, but I am building my legacy as a champion and no one can stop me.”
“We were blown away by Gabriela’s performance in October, and are proud to have yet another world champion fighting under the Golden Boy banner,” said Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions Oscar De La Hoya. “At just 21 years old, the sky’s the limit for her and I fully expect her to deliver a knockout performance in Phoenix on January 27.”

“Gabriela Fundora is an amazing talent who works non-stop in the gym to reach her dreams,” said co-promoter Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing. “They say once you win a championship, confidence makes you an even better fighter, which is bad news for Christina Cruz. I’m looking forward to a sensational performance from boxing’s newest female star, “Sweet Poison,” Gabriela Fundora.”

A force to be reckoned with as one of the youngest of the current female world champions, at only 21-years-old Fundora has impressed fans and media alike. She was last seen in front of her native Southern California fans on October 21, 2023 at the Kia Forum, where she was able to stop and steal the IBF title from veteran champion Arely Muciño. Representing the Coachella Valley, Fundora comes from a highly respected boxing family. Having begun boxing at six-years old, she joined the professional ranks in 2021 with an unanimous decision victory over Jazmin Valverde. She went on to secure the WBC Latino Flyweight title on October 8, 2022 against Naomi Arellano Reyes and the WBC Youth World Fly Tania Garcia Hernandez on February 23, 2023.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy.

Las Vegas (January 16, 2024) –Tickets are now on sale for The Box Fan Expo for the Seventh Annual Box Fan Expo that will take place at the Las Vegas Convention Center on Saturday, May 4, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. during Cinco De Mayo weekend.

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

The Box Fan Expo is thrilled to open its doors to boxing fans from all over the world, as well to all major boxing companies, promoters and industry people during this Mexican holiday weekend.

Centered in boxing’s long-time home – Las Vegas – this year’s Expo is a must-do for fight fans coming in for this legendary weekend, with dozens of professional fighters, promoters, and companies involved in the boxing industry. The Expo is the largest and only Boxing Fan Expo held in the United States. A full day of boxing fan experience awaits you!: https://boxfanexpo.com – @BoxFanExpo

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available online at:

The Last Box Fan Expo that took place in 2022 was another huge success. Over 3500 enthusiastic boxing fans from all over the globe had a chance to meet and greet some of their favorite fighters, including current and former world champions, top fighters of today, and many of the boxing celebrities such as Roberto Duran, Roy Jones Jr., Juan Manuel Marquez, Marco Antonio Barrera, Fernando Vargas, David Benavidez, Ryan Garcia, Teofimo Lopez, Marcos Maidana, Shawn Porter, Rolando Romero, Jose Ramirez, Floyd Mayweather sr., Jorge Linares, Michael Spinks, Seniesa Estrada, Franchón Crews-Dezurn, Badou Jack, Jessie Vargas, Mia St.John and many others …

Those fighters plus more boxing celebrities took pictures, signed autographs for their fans who attended the Box Fan Expo. Fans also had an opportunity to purchase merchandise and memorabilia from fighters and companies involved with the sport of boxing

The Box Fan Expo also played host to the third edition of “Box Fan Expo Invitational 2022”. This was an incredible amateur show which showcased several highly ranked and top USA amateur boxers who competed against the best in their division and more importantly in front of thousands of boxing fans that attended the Expo. Those invited to compete had a chance to get huge exposure and get noticed by top boxing companies as well as industry people that were present that day during the event.

HELPING A GREAT CAUSE

The Box Fan Expo Invitational amateur show had an opportunity to collaborate and help Center Ring Boxing, a non-profit organization that was established in 1994 in the Las Vegas area. Their Mission is to facilitate programs for youth, ages 8 to 18 and their families. They promote and improve image of boxing as a sport and provide positive interactions that facilitate educational, physical, mentoring programs which is a great positive influence and mental growth for those young kids looking to improve their self-esteem and personal lives.

About Box Fan Expo

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

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

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

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

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –

https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2024

To request information on exhibiting and sponsorship at the Expo:

For media credentials:

Contact us:

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

For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com

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

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

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

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (15 January, 2024) – H.E. Advisor Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Entertainment Authority, proudly announces ‘Knockout Chaos’ headlined by former unified World Heavyweight Champion Anthony Joshua in a mouth watering match up against MMA superstar and now Heavyweight contender Francis Ngannou on Friday 8 March at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh.

The event is being delivered to fans across the world by The General Entertainment Authority of Saudi Arabia, Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing, Frank Warren’s Queensberry Promotions, Goldstar Promotions and GIMIK Fight Promotions.

Previously the WBA, IBF and WBO World Champion, Joshua completed a busy and successful year on 23 December 2023 when he defeated Otto Wallin in five rounds in a headline attraction on the ‘Day of Reckoning’ in Riyadh, a fight which marked his return to the elite end of the Heavyweight rankings.

Former UFC Heavyweight champion Ngannou entered the world of boxing when he competed in the ‘Battle of the Baddest’ against WBC World Champion Tyson Fury, which opened Riyadh Season on 28 October 2023. The fight boomed into life towards the end of the third round when Ngannou landed a left hook to the temple of Fury’s head and the champion was put to the canvas.

Ngannou winning the respect and admiration of boxing fans across the globe with a remarkable performance. Now, in what will be his second professional fight, Ngannou takes on the other most popular heavyweight on the planet.

H.E. Alalshikh states that: “‘Knockout Chaos’ is one of the most important events to take place in Riyadh Season so far this year, an occasion which will bring together yet more international champions from one of the most popular sports in the world.”

“I will be ready to go once the first bell rings.” Insists the two-time former unified World Champion Joshua“ I will approach this mission with laser focus until the job is complete. I am looking forward to returning to Riyadh and I would like to thank the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the passion they have shown to myself and the sport of boxing.”

Ngannou pledges to continue silencing the doubters when he takes to the ring for his second professional fight.

“People have always doubted me and I always proved them wrong,” said the Cameroon-born star. ‘It is clear I am a trouble for elite boxers and AJ should prepare himself for a battle because I am like nothing he has ever faced. It is going to be another spectacle for boxing fans in Riyadh, only this time I have no intention of leaving it in the hands of the judges.”

Hall of Fame Promoter and Founder of Queensberry Promotions Frank Warren, added: “Friday 8 March in Riyadh will be another monumental event for the sport of boxing made possible by His Excellency Turki Alalshikh and his team, with who we have established a brilliantly productive working relationship. Riyadh Season has opened up new and thrilling frontiers for our great sport and, in Anthony Joshua vs. Francis Ngannou, we have a further Heavyweight blockbuster that will surely capture the imagination of fans right across the world.”

Eddie Hearn, Chairman of Matchroom Sport and Joshua’s long time Promoter said: “This is undoubtedly one of the biggest fights in boxing and I am grateful His Excellency, Turki Alalshikh shares that view. We’re talking about two giants in Anthony Joshua and Francis Ngannou, two men who look like they are carved out of stone, two devastating punchers. We are ready for another huge event in Saudi Arabia and a night full of drama. After AJ’s demolition of Otto Wallin he steps up against the former MMA Lineal champ. Francis has already proved his credentials in a thriller with Tyson Fury and comes into this clash full of confidence and fire. This is one of the biggest fights in the sport and one that can be over in the blink of an eye. When these two meet in Riyadh one thing is for sure… it will be Knockout Chaos!”

Manager of Ngannou, Marquel Martin of 3POINT0 Labs said: “Francis has proved he’s the baddest man on the planet against arguably the best boxer in the sport. Anthony Joshua has earned all the respect in the world for his accomplishments, but on March 8th he will realize he’s up against a man who has been through it all in life in Francis Ngannou. Thank you to His Excellency and the KSA for yet another epic Heavyweight showdown.”

To support one of the biggest fight in combat sports history, the event will also feature one of the most impressive undercards in boxing history.

The heavyweight division will take further shape when the Chinese giant Zhilei Zhang (26-1-1, 21 KOs) defends his WBO Interim world championship against former world champion Joseph Parker (34-3, 23 KOs) from New Zealand.

Rey Vargas (36-1, 22 KOs), the WBC World Champion from Mexico will make a first defence of his belt when he takes on No.1 contender, the Liverpool featherweight firebrand Nick Ball (19-0, 11 KOs).

Featuring on the card is a Battle of Britain at Lightweight, where top young contender and IBF European Champion Mark Chamberlain (14-0, 10 KOs) from England will challenge for the European Champion, Welshman Gavin Gwynne (17-2-1, 5 KOs).

Also performing in Riyadh will be Australian Heavyweight hopeful Justis Huni (8-0, 4 KOs), who will be looking to make his name in the flagship division (opponent details to be included ASAP) plus Cruiserweight prospect Roman Fury (3-0, 1 KO), British Super-Welterweight Jack McGann (9-0-1, 6 KOs) and local Saudi Arabian Super-Lightweight Ziyad Almaayouf (4-0, 1 KO).

About Riyadh Season

Saudi Arabia’s capital embraces one of the world’s biggest entertainment events every year during winter. Since the launch of Riyadh Season in 2019, the festival has welcomed visitors from all over the world to experience thousands of unique entertainment events, concerts, exhibitions and dining experiences. Riyadh Season 2023 commenced on Saturday, 28 October with a spectacular opening ceremony and the historic boxing match between Tyson Fury and Francis Ngannou, followed up by the ‘Day of Reckoning’ on December 23 featuring Anthony Joshua vs Otto Wallin and Deontay Wilder vs. Joseph Parker as the headline fights.

QUINCY, Mass. (January 16, 2024) – Two members of the growing Quincy, MA.-Granite Chin Promotions (GCP) stable of boxers, middleweights Antonio Todd (16-9, 9 KOs) and Julien “Black Dragon” Baptiste, will make their Madison Square Garden debuts in separate bouts on the February 16th Top Rank card.

Todd, fighting out of Atlanta, faces 2020 Dominican Republic Olympian Euri Cedeno (7-0-1, 6 KOs), while Baptiste takes on hometown favorite Isaah Flaherty (6-0, 3 KOs). These two fights will be streamed on ESPN+ live from The Theater in New York City’s famed Madison Square Garden.

“Fights like these and fighters like Antonio and Julien are what I am continuously trying to make Granite Chin all about,” GCP president Chris Traietti commented. “Fighters who will fight anyone, anywhere. It has been a pleasure working with these two and watching their careers develop. We have been together through highs and lows, but we stuck together and continue to achieve everything we can out of this rugged sport. Neither guy has ever shied away from a tough fight and now in February they are getting their just reward, fighting at the Mecca of Boxing. A lot of guys in boxing pretend to be ‘professional fighters’ but break out in hives when asked to step up. Not these two!”

Fighting at MSG – The Mecca of Boxing — for the first time has opposite meanings for the two GCP fighters; it’s just another fight for the battle-tested Todd, and a dream-come-true return home for Baptiste.

“I’ve fought in New York City before (Sony Hall), but this will be my first time fighting at Madison Square Garden,” Todd said. “It’s really no big deal for me, but it is for my coach. At this stage, nothing overwhelms me anymore. I do appreciate Chris getting me this opportunity.”

Antonio Todd

“It’s surreal for me to be fighting so quickly on a big stage like this,” Baptiste countered. “I remember speaking to Chris when my contract first started, and I said I wanted to fight at least once in New York City. In Madison Square Garden is above and beyond that and I’m so grateful to him for this opportunity.”

Julien Baptiste (R)

(picture by Emily Harney/Fightography)

Todd is a true throwback fighter who has fought all across the country, usually in his opponent’s backyard, and many feel that he’s a middleweight gatekeeper, which makes him feel that he’s disrespected in boxing.

“I do feel disrespected being called a gatekeeper,” Todd explained. “They (promoters/managers) want to see what their fighters have, and we’ll see that again in this fight. I’m the hitman at 160 (pounds). They keep sending them to me because I’m a tough test and I’m going to keep beating them. If they beat me, they suddenly go up in the ratings, but if I beat them I don’t get any respect.

“I just fight, I love it. Everybody wants to be king of the jungle, but nobody understands the hyena. I like riding the bull and being an underdog and that’s what drives me. I’m comfortable being uncomfortable. I can go anywhere to fight anybody, literally, and I’ll keep doing it until I get what I want….respect!

Todd, who will face Cedeno in an eight-round bout, has won his last two fights, including an impressive eight-round unanimous decision this past December, upsetting 15-1 Jaylon Pridgeon. Cedeno reached the quarterfinals of the Tokyo Olympics, losing to the eventual silver medalist, and he’s coming off an eight-round unanimous decision last December over previously undefeated Yoanki Urrutia (13-0).

Baptiste is a native New Yorker who grew-up in the Huntington area but relocated several years ago to Woburn, Massachusetts. The reigning Mass. Middleweight Champion turned his career around two fights ago, when he worked hard to overcome performance anxiety in the ring.

“It’s very satisfying to go out there and do what I can do,” Baptiste spoke about his performance anxiety. “God gave me this talent and it’s that simple for me on the performance end.

“I started boxing when I lived in New York. I’ll have family and friends there and maybe some other fans who will be there watching (Mass-based Abraham) Nova fight (the ESPN headliner vs. O’Shaquie Foster for the WBA Junior Lightweight title).”

Baptiste captured the Mass. Middleweight title last August in his last fight, in which he knocked out defending champion Jamer Jones in round six. Baptiste’s opponent in a six-round match, Queens resident Flaherty, is 6-0 but he has never fought an opponent with a winning record until now.

“He’s very tough, strong, and he’s fought some good guys during his career,” Baptiste added, “but I am going to go out there and show the world what I’m made of. Training camp has been very, very tough for this fight, but it’s worth it because I am getting ready for him.”

INFORMATION:

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

LONDON, UK (January 16, 2024) – Future boxing superstar Ben Whittaker will look to steal the show as he returns to action on the undercard of the huge all-British showdown between unbeaten #1 and #2 world ranked light heavyweights Joshua Buatsi and Dan Azeez on Saturday, February 3rd at the OVO Arena Wembley in London, live and exclusive on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

Whittaker closed the year in style with a highlight reel knockout of Stiven Leonetti Dredhaj in Bournemouth. Now 5-0, the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Silver medallist is aiming to kick-start the New Year with another spectacular performance when he takes on Swiss-based French fighter Khalid Graidia over eight-rounds.

Graidia returns to British shores having previously shared the ring with Whittaker’s domestic rivals Zach Parker, Ezra Taylor and Karol Itauma in London. Graidia also took British and Commonwealth Champion Dan Azeez the distance when they squared off in Milan in July 2023.

“The Surgeon is back and ready to start 2024 with another clinical performance. I’m putting the whole light heavyweight division on notice. Another big year is on the way so don’t miss the start of it on February 3rd,” said Whittaker.

“This is the start to a huge year for Ben Whittaker,” said BOXXER CEO and Founder Ben Shalom. “He will bring his star power to an already massive night for the light heavyweight division on February 3rd in London. Ben is a special talent and we expect to see him headlining shows and fighting for major titles this year.”

Having dethroned Franck Petitjean in front of a capacity crowd in Wolverhampton last year, Adam Azim makes the first defence of his EBU European Super Lightweight Title against undefeated former champion Enock Poulsen.

Rising featherweight star Francesca Hennessy and heavyweight hope Jeamie TKV are also confirmed for action in the capital. Hennessy, who has wowed fans with her explosive style since joining the paid ranks last year, goes in search of her third professional victory, while TKV looks to get back to winning ways having suffered his first career defeat to Igor Macedo in September 2023.

This event is presented in association with official partners Bet365, Everlast, WOW HYDRATE, Integritas Property Group and IFX Payments.

Tickets starting from £30 are available via BOXXER.com

Artur Beterbiev retained the IBF/WBC?WBO Light heavyweight tiles with a decisive and destructive seventh round stoppage of former super middleweight champion Callum Smith at The Videotron Center in Quebec City, Canada.

Beterbiev came out with hard flurries, while Smith would occasionally jab and try to work the body. In round three, Smith began to bleed from the nose and swell around the right eye.

In round seven, Beterbiev landed a big right hand that rocked and hurt Smith. The champion followed up with a massive flurry of punches that wilted Smith to the canvas. Smith tried to fight back, but ate six flush shots on the ropes that put him down for a second time. Smith’s trainer Buddy McGirt climbed on the ring apron to signal that he had seen enough of his charge taking abuse and the bout was stopped at 2:00.

Beterbiev, 175 lbs of Montreal is 20-0 with 20 knockouts. Smith, 174.6 lbs of Liverpool, ENG is 29-2.

Beterbiev said, “It’s because of luck. It’s my coach. My team works hard with me, too. Maybe that’s why, too. But I think it’s because of luck.

“We had a couple strategies. We always have more than one. We need to be prepared for several strategies. He gave me a good fight. He stayed strong. Thanks to him. Today, luck is on my side.

“Yes, of course {I want the Bivol fight}. I need another belt. It would mean a lot to me.”

Mbilli destroys Murdock in 6

Top-ranked super middleweight Christian Mbilli battered Rohan Murdock to a pulp as he scored a stoppage after six-rounds of their 10-round bout.

Mbilli landed vicious power punches throughout the fight. He was relentless, especially with the right hand and he landed several shots that were right on the sweet spot.

Mbilli had Murdock in serious trouble in just about every round, and the fight could have been stopped at anytime after the fourth round. Murdock’s corner let him eat huge shots for another six minutes before pulling the plug on the fight after round six.

Mbilli, 167.3 lbs of Montreal is 26-0 with 22 knockouts. Murdock, 167 lbs of Burleigh, AUS is 27-3.

Mbilli said, “Tonight I sent a message. I am the future of the division. That’s what the message was today.

“Canelo is the best. Everyone knows that. But now I want to show that I’m the best in the division. My goal is to fight him. I would do anything to fight him.

“Murdock is strong. He took all of my good punches. But for me, I thought I would finish him in one more round. But his team ended the fight. He’s a good fighter, but I’m the best today.”

Moloney Decisions Sanchez; Retains Bantamweight Title

Jason Moloney retained the WBO Bantamweight title with a 12-round majority decision over Saul Sanchez.

In round three, Moloney was cut around the right eye, which was ruled from a headbutt. The fight was fought a close quarters and fought on the inside. Sanchez was very effective with his work on the inside.

Sanchez took the middle rounds by being agressive. Moloney came on late in the final rounds to eek the fight out by scores of 116-112 twice and 114-114.

Moloney, 117.5 lbs of Melbourne, AUS is now 27-2.

Moloney said, “Saul Sanchez is a warrior. I am proud to be the WBO bantamweight champion, and I was going to do whatever it took to keep my title.
 
“The era of Mayhem is only beginning. And the fans here in Quebec City were incredible. I felt like I did enough in the later rounds to retain my title.
 
“I’d love to defend my world title ‘Down Under’ in front of my Australian fans.”

Imam Khataev remained perfect by stopping Michal Ludwiczak in round two in a scheduled 10-round light heavyweight fight.

In round two, Khataev was battering Ludwiczak until a combination that finished up by a right put Ludwiczak. Khtaev continued to batter Ludwiczak until the bout was waved off at 2:17

Khataev, 174.6 lbs of Sydney, AUS is now 6-0 with six knockouts. Ludwiczak, 178.6 lbs of Leszeno, POL is 17-13-1.

In a rematch, Leila Beaudoin won an eight-round unanimous decision over Elizabeth Espinoza in a junior lightweight bout.

Beaudoin, 129.6 lbs of Temiscouata, CAN won by scores of 78-74 twice and 77-75 and is now 11-1. Espinoza, 129.8lbs of Torreon, MEX is 4-6-3.

Wikens Mathieu remained undefeated and won a four-round unanimous decision over Jose Arias Alvarez in a super middleweight fight/

Mathieu, 168.8 lb of Quebec City won by scores of 40-36 and 40-35 twice and is now 6-0. Alvarez, 167.7 lbs of Leon, MEX is 3-2.

Mehmet Unal stopped Dragan Lepei in just 57 seconds of their eight-round light heavyweight bout.

Unal dominated and hurt Lepei until the fight was stopped.

Unal, 177.8 lbs of Montreal is 8-0 with seven. Lepei, 177.7 lbs of Tuscany, ITA is 22-7-2.

Christopher Guerrero won an eight-round unanimous decision over Sergio Barrera in a welterweight bout.

Guerrero, 149 lbs of Montreal won by score of 79-73 twice and 78-4 and is now 10-0. Barrera, 149.6 lbs of Jalisco, MEX is 7-4.

Moreno Fendero stopped Victor Hugo Flores in the opening round of their four-round middleweight bout.

In round one, Fendero dropped Flores with a left hand. Seconds later, Fendero landed a hard combination that put Flores down again. Fendero got to his feet, but then crouched down and the fight was stopped at 2:16.

Fendero, 162.8 lbs of Chartres, FRA is 3-0 with two knockouts. Flores, 162.3 lbs of Pachuca, MEX is 7-3.

NEW YORK (January 12, 2024) This Sunday at 9:00pm EST, DiBella Entertainment’s Broadway Boxing Veterans Day event, dubbed “Heroes on the Hudson,” will premiere on SportsNet New York (SNY), New York City’s premier destination for sports and sporting news. The card, originally broadcast by DAZN, was part of a Veterans Day celebration, sponsored by Morgan Stanley and Cavu Securities, to support the heroic veterans of the United States Armed Forces.

The 120^th edition of the Broadway Boxing series is highlighted by the ring return of former WBO world champion and US Marine Jamel Herring against the undefeated Nick Molina.

Newly crowned IBF Bantamweight World Champion Miyo Yoshida took on Shurretta Metcalf in a 10-round bantamweight contest on the undercard with the vacant IBF Inter-Continental belt at stake. Rising heavyweight Roney Hines put his undefeated record on the line versus Jonathan Gruber, and super bantamweight contender Mikiah Kreps faced the experienced Isis Vargas Perez. 

A portion of the proceeds from the event were donated to Merging Vets and Players and the West Point Society of New York. 

“Our last Broadway Boxing event, held at Edison Ballroom in New York City, titled ‘Heroes on the Hudson’, not only celebrated the 20^th anniversary of the series, it more importantly helped to honor and support our military veterans. First broadcast on DAZN, I’m thrilled to now premiere this card to SNY’s audience,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Former world champion and US Marine Veteran, Jamel Herring, began his comeback, determined to get back into the world title picture. Miyo Yoshida, now a three-time world champion, battled Shurretta Metcalf for the IBF Inter-Continental bantamweight title on the undercard. Also that night, super bantamweight contender Mikiah Kreps, co-managed by Herring, took on former world title challenger Isis Vargas Perez and heavyweight prospect Roney Hines rumbled with Jonathan Gruber.”

Since its inception in November 2003, Broadway Boxing has featured many boxing luminaries and world champions, including Vitali Klitschko, Gennadiy Golovkin, George Kambosos Jr., Jamel Herring, Jose Pedraza, Amanda Serrano, Andre Berto, Heather Hardy, Paulie Malignaggi, Peter Quillin, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Yuriorkis Gamboa, Joshua Clottey, DeMarcus Corley and Randall Bailey, among others.

Boxing fans wishing to enjoy “Heroes on the Hudson” can do so by tuning in to SNY on Sunday at 9:00pm EST. SNY can be found on the following platforms (list not all-inclusive – see your local TV guide): DirecTV (639), Time Warner Cable (26), Verizon FiOS: (577, 77), Cablevision (718, 60), Comcast (843, 73). 

DiBella Entertainment

Instagram: @DiBellaEnt

Twitter: @LouDiBella, @DiBellaEnt

Facebook: @DiBellaEntertainment

NOVA SCOTIA, CANADA (January 12, 2024) – Fighting Irish Promotions, in collaboration with DMS Trade Shows, is set to deliver an electrifying fight card titled “The Homecoming” on February 2, 2024, at the Scotiabank Centre Halifax in Nova Scotia, Canada. The 10-round main event will feature Custio Clayton (19-1-1, 12 KOs) as he steps into the ring against Courtney Pennington (17-7-3, 7 KOs) in a super welterweight attraction. Patrice Volny (17-1, 11 KOs) goes head-to-head against Deandre Ware (16-4-2, 9 KOs) in a scheduled 10-round super middleweight co-main event bout.

“We’re thrilled to bring this stellar fight card to the Scotiabank Centre Halifax in association with our partners at DMS Trade Shows,” said Sean Sullivan, CEO of Fighting Irish Promotions. “The fighters featured on our card are local fan favorites and we are expecting a sold-out show. Fighting Irish Promotions and DMS Trade Shows are dedicated to providing a family-friendly environment where fans can enjoy an unforgettable night of boxing. We are excited to bring boxing back to Nova Scotia, especially with local fighters.”

Hailing from North Preston, Canada, Custio Clayton has fought at the world class level, having challenged the likes of Sergey Lipinets and Jaron “Boots” Ennis. He captured the NABA and WBO International welterweight titles in 2019 when he defeated Johan Perez. He’s eager to get back in the ring after being out of boxing for over a year.

“I learned a lot about myself after suffering my first defeat against Boots Ennis,” said Clayton. “The time off helped me reflect on what’s important to me and I’m ready to start my journey back to the world title. Pennington is a fighter that I’ve been training hard for, and I can’t wait to fight him in front of my people in Canada.”

Patrice Volny, from Montreal, Quebec, Canada, held the NABA and NABO middleweight titles in 2019, when he defeated Ryan Young and Uriel Gonzalez. His lone defeat came against Esquiva Falcao, in 2021. Since then, he seized a win against Abraham Juarez Ramirez in 2023. He’s looking forward to fighting back at home.

“I’m proud to be a Canadian and fighting at home brings me great joy,” stated Volny. “I’m in a tough fight against Deandre Ware, who has been in the ring with some good fighters, but I’m confident that I will come out victorious. I’m excited and I plan on putting on a great show for all my fans that will be in attendance.”

Doors open for “The Homecoming” at 6:30 pm ET with the first fight starting at 7:00 pm ET. Tickets priced $19.99 (kids under twelve are free with an adult), $59.99, Tables $800 (Back Row) $2500 (Front Row) are available for purchase this Saturday by calling the Scotiabank Centre Halifax box office at (902) 451-1221, by email at boxoffice@scotiabank-centre.com, or Ticket Master (800) 653-8000, and online at www.ticketmaster.com. This event is sponsored by www.PURENES.ca.

Undercard Bouts:

Undefeated super welterweight Miguel Angel Hernandez (7-0, 6 KOs), of Dallas, TX, will be making his Canadian debut vs. an opponent TBA. (8-rounds).

Lightweight Spencer Wilcox (6-0, 3 KOs), from Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, will look to keep his unbeaten record intact vs. an opponent TBA. (8-rounds).

Local fan favorite welterweight Kyle McNeil (13-5, 2 KOs), of Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, will square off against Cody Kelly (4-7-3), from Collingwood, Ontario, Canada. (6-rounds).

Light heavyweight Daniel Beaupre (4-2, 2 KOs), from Halifax, Nova Scotia, will be fighting in front of his hometown fans against an opponent TBA. (6-rounds).

Opening up the show will be unbeaten heavyweight, Brandon Osborne (1-0), from Nova Scotia, Canada, facing an opponent TBA. (4-rounds).

#

About Fighting Irish Promotions:

Fighting Irish Promotions is dedicated to promoting high-quality boxing events that showcase top-tier talent and thrilling matchups. With a commitment to delivering unparalleled entertainment, Irish Boxing Promotions aims to bring the best of the sport to audiences worldwide.

About DMS Trade Shows:

DMS Trade Shows is a leading organizer of dynamic and engaging trade shows and events. Collaborating with various industries, DMS Trade Shows is committed to delivering exceptional experiences that bring together enthusiasts and businesses, fostering networking and growth opportunities.

Liam Dillon and Reece Bellotti will clash for the British and Commonwealth Super-Featherweight Titles at Indigo at The O2 in London on Saturday February 10, shown live worldwide on DAZN.

Welterweight rivals Conah Walker and Cyrus Pattinson were originally set to rematch at the Vertu Motors Arena in Newcastle on Saturday February 10, but an eye injury sustained by the Alnwick man has forced him to withdraw from their second meeting.

Watford’s Bellotti (17-5, 14 KOs) is enjoying a three-fight winning streak across 2022 and 2023, with the ‘Bomber’ picking up the vacant Commonwealth Super-Featherweight Title last time out at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool by stopping Aqib Fiaz in eight rounds – the Oldham fighter’s first professional loss.

Chingford’s Dillon (13-0-1, 3 KOs), a former Southern Area and English champion at 130lbs, claimed the vacant British Super-Featherweight Title via an all-action split decision win against Qais Ashfaq in Newcastle last July – dedicating the career-best win to his late sister Lauren.

Watford’s Shannon Ryan and Newark’s Emma Dolan will create history when they become the first women to contest the British Super-Flyweight Title, with Dolan’s Commonwealth Title also on the line in their 10-round showdown.

Ryan (6-0) hasn’t put a foot wrong since joining the professional ranks at Wembley Arena in March 2022, and the Anthony Joshua-managed star can take another step on her journey to becoming the latest face of women’s boxing when she contests her first titles next month.

Dolan (6-0, 1 KO) claimed the vacant Commonwealth crown in her hometown by outpointing Tanzania’s Halima Vunjabei in March 2023 before defending her belt for the first time against local rival Nicola Hopewell at the Park Community Arena in Sheffield last October.

Also featuring on the card is a fourth pro-outing for exciting 21-year-old Cameron Vuong (3-0, 2 KOs) who takes on the experienced Ishmael Ellis (14-7) over eight rounds at Lightweight, Takeley Cruiserweight John Hedges (8-0, 2 KOs) meets Germany’s Erdogan Kadrija (20-5, 12 KOs) over eight rounds, plus there’s action for Eltham Flyweight Maiseyrose Courtney (5-0) and Bolton Super-Lightweight Khaleel Majid (12-0, 4 KOs).

“I’m looking forward to defending my British Title against Reece Bellotti at the top of a big Matchroom Boxing card live around the world on DAZN,” said Dillon. “Reece’s Commonwealth Title is also on the line so that’s another big motivation for me. 2024 is going to be a big year for my career. My British Title isn’t going anywhere. See you on February 10!”

“Always stay ready!” said Bellotti. ” A brilliant opportunity has come up for me to win a title that I’ve dreamed of winning since I was a kid and I can’t wait. I plan on kicking 2024 off with a bang on February 10 and then kicking on from there. This has the potential to be a massive year for me. I’m absolutely buzzing, let’s go!”

“The British and Commonwealth Super-Featherweight Titles are on the line as Liam Dillon and Reece Bellotti clash at the top of our latest NXTGEN card on February 10,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “History will be made when Shannon Ryan and Emma Dolan contest the British Super-Flyweight Title for the very first time and it’s a quick return to action for red hot Lightweight prospect Cameron Vuong who steps up against the experienced Ishmael Ellis. Young guns John Hedges, Maiseyrose Courtney and Khaleel Majid all kick off what will be a busy year for them. Catch all of the action live worldwide on DAZN.”

Christian Carto 123 – Ardin Diale 130

Atif Oberlton 175 – Cleotis Pendarvis 174.5

Quadir Albright 146.5 – Adam Kipenga 145.5

Jackie McTamney 125.5 – Cara McLaughlin 123.5

Cornelius Phipps 121 – Darrin Holiday 122

Cody Russell 176 – Ronald Trahan 173

Ibrahim Robinson 145 – Renny Viamonte

Ismail Muhammad 149.5 – Zach Hill 150.5

Promoter: King’s Promotions

Venue: Live! Casino Hotel Philadelphia

1st Bell: 7 PM ET

Stream: BXNGTV.com (Marc Abrams and Mykal Fox on the call)

Featherweight star Skye Nicolson is confident of landing her dream World Title shot on home soil in Australia this year. 

The Interim WBC World Champion had been calling for a shot at multi-weight icon Amanda Serrano but will now face Denmark’s Sarah Mahfoud for the full World Title after the Puerto Rican vacated her title last month.

The Commonwealth Gold medallist and Olympian, who is undefeated in nine fights since joining the professional ranks in March 2022, enjoyed a breakout 2023, securing four big wins from four fights in New York, Cardiff, Tijuana and Dublin. 

Nicolson kicked off 2023 by outpointing Spain’s Tania Alvarez at the Madison Square Garden Theater to land the WBC Silver Featherweight Title before decisioning Peru’s Linda Laura Lecca in her second fight at the Cardiff International Arena.

The slick southpaw captured the Interim Featherweight World Title against Argentina’s Maribel Perez in Mexico and ended the year in style by earning her first stoppage win against Sweden’s Lucy Wildheart on the blockbuster Cameron vs. Taylor 2 card in Ireland. 

28-year-old Nicolson has paved the way for female boxing in Australia, and speaking at a media day in Brisbane today the former amateur sensation admitted that it would be a dream come true to capture a full World Title in front of her family and friends down under.  

“I think Matchroom are trying really hard to get the fight in Australia, hopefully in Brisbane, which would be a dream come true for my first World Title,” said Nicolson. “I’m really excited to win that first World Title and bring it home to Australia. Matchroom, right now, are trying to focus on a date in April.

“I think a lot of people thought my last fight was going to be a tough test for me but I know what I’m capable of. I didn’t overlook Lucy Wildheart but I knew that fight was going to be a big statement. I’ve said from day one, the better the opponent, the better the Skye Nicolson you’ll see on the night.

“I know Mahfoud won three rounds against Serrano just over a year ago. She won’t win three rounds against me. That was the same against Wildheart, she won three rounds against Mikaela Meyer. She wasn’t winning three rounds against me, never, it wasn’t even going to be close. I feel very confident, I know she’s a good boxer but that works in my favour, I like fighting good boxers.”

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA (January 11, 2024) — Boxing promoter Brendan Gibbons announced the first signing to the roster of his Las Vegas-based Viva! Promotions — top-10 world-rated junior featherweight contender Elijah Pierce (18-2, 15 KOs) from Midwest City, Oklahoma.  Pierce, 27, is currently riding a three-year, nine-bout winning streak and is expected to make his 2024 debut in March.

“I’m very excited to be part of Viva Promotions and the opportunity to work with Brendan Gibbons and Sean Gibbons.  They’ve done a phenomenal job leading fighters to world titles and huge fights,” Pierce said.  “With Viva Promotions behind me, I know I’ll get the opportunities I deserve, and I’ll finally be able to show the world I’m the best fighter in my division.  I’m looking forward to an explosive year and unveiling the true Elijah Pierce.  VIVA!”

Brendan is the son of esteemed boxing executive Sean Gibbons.

“I discovered Elijah on the BoxRec website when I was scouting opponents for Mike Plania.  One look at Elijah’s record and you could tell he didn’t care who he fought, he just wanted to fight.  Two fights prior to taking on Plania, Elijah had fought three divisions above his normal weight class, where he stopped Juan Carlos Pena (32-8, 23 KOs) in the second round,” said Brendan.  “The second thing I liked about him was that he was from Oklahoma where my dad spent a lot of his early days in boxing.  When I finally got a chance to see him fight, I was impressed with his ability and talent.  I believe with the guidance of Viva Promotions, Elijah will get the big opportunities he’s earned.  I would like to thank Tony Jeter of Jeter Promotions for everything he has done for Elijah and his career.”

Pierce is currently world-rated No. 8 by the WBA, No. 10 by the WBO, and No. 11 by the IBF.  Seven of Pierce’s last nine victories have been by stoppage, including his most recent fight, a third-round KO of Plania (28-2, 15 KOs). 

Las Vegas (January 11, 2024) – WE ARE BACK!!! The Box Fan Expo has announced its return to Las Vegas and its Seventh Annual Box Fan Expo for fans and the boxing industry. The event will return to the Las Vegas Convention Center on Saturday, May 4, 2024, from 10 a.m. to

5 p.m. during Cinco De Mayo weekend.

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

The Box Fan Expo is thrilled to open its doors to boxing fans from all over the world, as well to all major boxing companies, promoters and industry people during this Mexican holiday weekend.

Centered in boxing’s long-time home – Las Vegas – this year’s Expo is a must-do for fight fans coming in for this legendary weekend, with dozens of professional fighters, promoters, and companies involved in the boxing industry. The Expo is the largest and only Boxing Fan Expo held in the United States. A full day of boxing fan experience awaits you!: https://boxfanexpo.com – @BoxFanExpo

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available online at:

https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2024

The Last Box Fan Expo that took place in 2022 was another huge success. Over 3500 enthusiastic boxing fans from all over the globe had a chance to meet and greet some of their favorite fighters, including current and former world champions, top fighters of today, and many of the boxing celebrities such as Roberto Duran, Roy Jones Jr., Juan Manuel Marquez, Marco Antonio Barrera, Fernando Vargas, David Benavidez, Ryan Garcia, Teofimo Lopez, Marcos Maidana, Shawn Porter, Rolando Romero, Jose Ramirez, Floyd Mayweather sr., Jorge Linares, Michael Spinks, Seniesa Estrada, Franchón Crews-Dezurn, Badou Jack, Jessie Vargas, Mia St.John and many others …

Those fighters plus more boxing celebrities took pictures, signed autographs for their fans who attended the Box Fan Expo. Fans also had an opportunity to purchase merchandise and memorabilia from fighters and companies involved with the sport of boxing

The Box Fan Expo also played host to the third edition of “Box Fan Expo Invitational 2022”. This was an incredible amateur show which showcased several highly ranked and top USA amateur boxers who competed against the best in their division and more importantly in front of thousands of boxing fans that attended the Expo. Those invited to compete had a chance to get huge exposure and get noticed by top boxing companies as well as industry people that were present that day during the event.

HELPING A GREAT CAUSE

The Box Fan Expo Invitational amateur show had an opportunity to collaborate and help Center Ring Boxing, a non-profit organization that was established in 1994 in the Las Vegas area. Their Mission is to facilitate programs for youth, ages 8 to 18 and their families. They promote and improve image of boxing as a sport and provide positive interactions that facilitate educational, physical, mentoring programs which is a great positive influence and mental growth for those young kids looking to improve their self-esteem and personal lives.

About Box Fan Expo

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

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

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

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

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –

To request information on exhibiting and sponsorship at the Expo:

For media credentials:

Contact us:

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

For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com

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

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

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

NEW YORK CITY (Jan. 10, 2024) — Two rising talents are set to put their perfect records on the line as part of the ESPN-televised tripleheader headlined by the WBC junior lightweight showdown between reigning champ O’Shaquie “Ice Water” Foster and Abraham “El Super” Nova on Friday, Feb. 16 at The Theater at Madison Square Garden.

In the 10-round junior lightweight co-feature, Andres “Savage” Cortes takes on Puerto Rican contender Bryan Chevalier.

Rising featherweight Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington, the latest fistic prodigy from Brownsville, Brooklyn, will face Filipino-born standout Bernard Torres in the 10-round televised opener.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Murphys Boxing and 12 Rounds Promotion, tickets go on sale Friday, Jan. 12 at 12 p.m. ET via Ticketmaster.com.

Foster-Nova, Cortes-Chevalier and Carrington-Torres will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Cortes (20-0, 11 KOs) emerged in July 2020 when he rose from the canvas to secure a unanimous decision win over Alejandro Salinas inside the MGM Grand Las Vegas Bubble. After decisioning Eduardo Garza in May 2021, Cortes shined with a first-round knockout against former world title challenger Genesis Servania three months later and a third-round TKO against Mark Bernaldez that November. The 26-year-old signed with Top Rank in March 2022 and has since gone 4-0 with two knockouts. Last July, Cortes scored a seventh-round stoppage victory over Xavier Martinez.

Cortes said, “I can’t wait to perform on the big stage at The Theater at Madison Square Garden. This is a massive opportunity, and I will put the junior lightweight division on notice. I want a world title shot, but I must perform well against a tough opponent in Chevalier to make that goal a reality. 2024 is the year I bring a world title home to Las Vegas.”

Chevalier (20-1-1, 16 KOs), a 10-year-pro, is unbeaten in his last 12 fights. He made his U.S. debut by defeating James Wilkins to capture his first regional title in July 2021. Following a yearlong absence from the ring, he returned in 2022 with TKO wins against Carlos Padilla and Cesar Juarez. The 29-year-old continued to build on his momentum last year, tallying seventh-round stoppages against Alberto Mercado in April and Ranfis Javier Encarnacion in July.

Chevalier said, “Andres Cortes is a great fighter. Boxing fans will really enjoy a great fight that night. Expect to see in me a warrior who will do everything possible to walk away victorious. That night, everyone in the boxing world will know who Bryan Chevalier is.”

Carrington (10-0, 6 KOs), 2020 U.S. Olympic Trials champion, has been rapidly ascending the ranks since turning pro in October 2021. The 26-year-old impressed with five victories in 2023, including a second-round knockout over then-unbeaten Brandon Chambers in April. In his last performance, Carrington stunned former world title challenger Jason Sanchez by knocking him out in only two rounds. Carrington enters 2024 knocking on the doorstep of title contention.

“It is always extra special to fight in at The Garden in front of my hometown fans, and I look forward to putting on a show for my people and everyone watching on ESPN,” Carrington said. “I’ve graduated from prospect to contender, and this is the year everyone sees my full arsenal.” 

Torres (18-1, 8 KOs), a Filipino-born southpaw from Norway, debuted in the paid ranks in October 2017. He went 16-0 before losing via 10-round unanimous decision to Frency Fortunato in September 2022 in his U.S. debut. The 27-year-old bounced back with an eighth-round TKO win against Cristian Avila last January in Oslo, Norway. Torres is coming off a 10-round points verdict over Tanzanian veteran Nasibu Ramadhani in June.

The ESPN+-streamed undercard features:

2016 Italian Olympian Guido “The Gladiator” Vianello (11-1-1, 9 KOs) battles Moses Johnson (11-1-2, 8 KOs) in an eight-round heavyweight contest. Vianello returns following a decision win over Curtis Harper in October. Johnson, from Huntington, New York, tallied a third-round TKO against Emilio Salas in December. 

Junior welterweight prospect Tiger Johnson (11-0, 5 KOs), a U.S. Olympian from Cleveland, Ohio, makes his 2024 debut in an eight-rounder against Brazil’s Paulo Galdino (13-7-2, 9 KOs). Johnson capped off a spotless 2023 in December with a gritty eight-round split decision over Jimerr Espinosa.

Unbeaten junior lightweight prospect Ofacio Falcon (10-0, 6 KOs) will make his second appearance at The Theater against Edward Ceballos (11-4-1, 6 KOs). Falcon, a native of The Bronx, decisioned Pedro Vicente Scharbaai in June.

Middleweight prospect Euri Cedeno (7-0-1, 6 KOs), who represented the Dominican Republic at the Tokyo Olympics, makes his New York City debut against Atlanta native Antonio Todd (15-9, 9 KOs) in an eight-rounder.

Queens-born middleweight Isaah Flaherty (6-0, 3 KOs) will see action in a six-rounder against an opponent to be named.

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (January 10, 2024) – Rapidly developing Arabian boxers will be showcased on this Saturday’s “Rising Stars Arabia: The Revolution” card, promoted by AAM Seddiqi Sports and sponsored by the Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), outdoors at Yas Links Golf Course in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

The boxing world knows many of today’s most significant and lucrative boxing events  are held in the Middle East, but they may be unaware that this region also has world-class fighters such as Moroccan super featherweight Moussa Gholam (20-1, 12 KOs), in addition to a growing group of promising prospects and solid veterans such as United Arab Emirati lightweight Fahad “Kid Emirati” Al Bloushi (12-1, 2 KOs), Jordanian lightweight Bader “The Master” Samreen (9-0, 8 KOs), Syrian cruiserweight Mohammed “The Destroyer” Bekdash (26-0, 23 KOs) and Iraqi light heavyweight Amer Kadhum Ghaneem (2-0, 1 KO). All are scheduled to be in action this Saturday.

Innovative promoter Ahmed Seddiqi is on a mission to introduce Arabian boxing talent to the world, believing the “Rising Stars Arabia” series will continue developing boxing talent in this region. Seddiqi has promoted many events, but he took a break to focus on his company and gym. On the 10^th anniversary of Round 10 Boxing Club, he decided to showcase regional talents, focusing on promoting shows to showcase boxers from the Middle East and North Africa countries, of which Arabs comprised 98-percent, for the first time in boxing history.   

“This series will be a solid platform for the region and the world to see the talent we have here,” Seddiqi explained. “A lot of promotions are happening in our region, Saudi Arabia, and Abu Dhabi, but there are only one or two Arab fighters on the undercard. It is disappointing for me to see that, and this series will start pushing more fighters on big cards. The main goal is to have a superstar from our region and to start headlining main events in our region and around the world.”

The Rising Stars Arabia (RSA) series, the first of its kind in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, is sanctioned by the Middle East Professional Boxing Commission. Western promoters generally don’t promote Arab talent, but now they will have no choice other than to start promoting them due to Seddiqi’s vision and initiatives.

“Rising Star Arabia: The Revolution” will be streamed live on DAZN and ESPN Knockout, as well as broadcast on Abu Dhabi Sports TV, starting at 8 p.m. UAEST (11 a.m. EST and 8 a.m. PST).

“There was a considerable hiatus between our first event (Sept. 9, 2023) and the second due to circumstances,” Seddiqi noted, “but momentum starts this Saturday, and it will continue with the third installment of our series in March, and fourth in June.

“This event will be extraordinary as it takes place outdoors at a golf club with a stunning backdrop of Yas Island and the beautiful surroundings of the mangroves.”

AAM Seddiqi Sports has been promoting and managing fighters in the region for 10 years and it has a growing stable of more than 30 gifted regional and global talents. Its events include five world title shows that have been broadcasted globally on ESPN, Sky Sports, and other major networks.

Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi is responsible for promoting, protecting, and progressing the emirate by driving the strategic and sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture and tourism sectors. As part of its mandate, the department is responsible for promoting regional and global sporting events in the emirate.

Tickets to Rising Stars Arabia are on sale now at https://swiy.co/rsa2. Leading up to the event, fans can find updates on the AAM Seddiqi Sports Instagram channel @seddiqiboxing and on seddiqiboxing.com.

Below is an updated bout sheet:

_______________________________________________________________________ 

MAIN EVENT – SUPER FEATHERWEIGHTS – 10 ROUNDS

Moussa Gholam (20-1, 12 KOs), Morocco

vs.

Lunga Sitemela (15-1, 9 KOs), South Africa

CO-FEATURE – LIGHTWEIGHTS – 10 ROUNDS

Fahad Al Bloushi (12-1, 2 KOs), United Arab Emirates

vs.

Milner Marcano (25-12, 20 KOs), Venezuela

SPECIAL LIGHTWEIGHT ATTRACTION – 10 ROUNDS

Bader Samreen (9-0, 8 KOs), Jordan

vs.

Jeff Ofori (13-5-2, 4 KOs), United Kingdom

CRUISERWEIGHTS – 8 ROUNDS

Mohammad Bekdash (26-0, 23 KOs), Syria

vs.

Shaban Hamadi Jongo (11-3-2, 10 KOs), Tanzania

LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS – 6 ROUNDS

Amer Kadhum Ghaneem (2-0, 1 KO), Iraq

vs.

Marcela German Gonzalez (0-1), Argentina

SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS – 4 ROUNDS

Anas Hafiane (1-0, 1 KO), Morocco

vs.

Batamazee Iddi (0-1), Uganda

152-POUND CATCHWEIGHT – 6 ROUNDS

Husham Osuma Majed Elisimreen (1-0, 0 KOs)

vs.

Riva Kundimang (9-7-2, 5 KOs), Indonesia

SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS – 4 ROUNDS

Sulaiman Abbar (1-0, 0 KOs), Saudi Arabia

vs.

Sulum Omari (1-2, 0 KOs), Tanzania

MIDDLEWEIGHTS – 4 ROUNDS

Fahad Alkhoori (2-0, 2 KOs), United Arab Emirates

vs.

Shahzada Sohail (0-3), Pakistan

(card subject to change)

Las Vegas – UFC^® returns to Miami, Fla. with another electric card, headlined by a highly anticipated rematch between UFC bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley and No. 6 ranked contender Marlon Vera. Also, an action packed five-round co-main event sees No. 3 lightweight contender Dustin Poirier square off with No. 12 ranked Benoit Saint Denis.

UFC^® 299: O’MALLEY vs. VERA 2 takes place Saturday, March 9 at the Kaseya Center, with the main card available on ESPN+ PPV at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. The prelims will be airing on ESPNEWS, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT, and will join in progress on ESPN starting at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT. The early prelims will be available for viewing exclusively on ESPN + and UFC Fight Pass at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT.

UFC^®299: O’MALLEY vs. VERA tickets will go on sale Friday, January 12 at 10 a.m. ET and are available for purchase at ticketmaster.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. UFC Fight Club^® members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets Wednesday, January 10 at 10 a.m. ET via www.ufcfightclub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thursday, January 11 starting at 10 a.m. ET. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

VIP tickets are available via On Location, the UFC’s Official VIP Experience Provider. Enjoy behind-the-scenes access with a VIP Experience package that can feature premium seating, post-fight octagon experience, all-inclusive hospitality, meet-and-greets with UFC fighters and more. Visit UFCVIP.com for more information

Media members wishing to apply for UFC^®299: O’MALLEY vs. VERA 2 fight week credentials may sign up here.

UFC bantamweight champion O’Malley (17-1 1 NC, fighting out of Phoenix, Ariz.) looks to finally settle the score against the only man to hand him a loss. The Arizona-based fighter has delivered highlight performances against top talent such as Aljamain Sterling, Petr Yan, and Raulian Paiva. O’Malley now aims to build upon his legacy as champion by finishing his rival, Vera, in emphatic fashion.

Vera (21-8-1, fighting out of Chone, Manabi, Ecuador) intends to make the most of his first championship fight by defeating O’Malley for a second time. A versatile finisher and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt, Vera has claimed strong victories against Dominick Cruz, Frankie Edgar, and Pedro Munhoz. He now sets his sights on gold as he attempts to become the first ever Ecuadorian UFC champion.  

Poirier (29-8 1 NC, fighting out of Coconut Creek, Fla. by way of Lafayette, Louis.) returns to action seeking redemption. An Octagon veteran, the former Interim UFC lightweight champion holds wins over elite competition such as Conor McGregor (x2), Michael Chandler, and Dan Hooker. Poirier looks to nullify Saint Denis’ title ambitions with a dominant victory over the rising contender.

France’s Saint Denis (13-1 1 NC, fighting out of Paris, France) seeks to further his climb up the lightweight rankings by delivering a highlight finish against a top name. A Judo black belt with impressive striking, the Frenchmen is currently on a five-fight win steak and has finished the likes of Matt Frevola, Thiago Moises, and Ismael Bonfim in his last three outings. Saint Denis now looks to secure the biggest win of his career by defeating Poirier in an unforgettable showing.

Current official bouts on the card include:

• Heavyweight contenders No. 5 Curtis Blaydes (17-4 1NC, fighting out of Chicago, Ill.) and No. 7 ranked Jailton Almeida (20-2, fighting out of Salvador, Bahia, Brazil) battle in a pivotal matchup
• Exciting welterweights No. 4 ranked Gilbert Burns (22-6, fighting out of Boca Raton, Fla. by way of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) and Dana White’s Contender Series alumni No. 11 Jack Della Maddalena (16-2, fighting out of Perth, Western Australia) look to deliver fireworks
• Welterweights attempt to steal the show as fan-favorite Kevin Holland (25-10 1NC, fighting out of Fort Worth, Texas) welcomes UFC newcomer Michael Page (21-2, fighting out of London, England) in what promises to be an epic standup clash.
• No. 4 ranked flyweight contender Katlyn Chookagian (18-5, fighting out of Amity Harbor, N.Y. by way of Quakertown, Penn.) clashes with No. 7 Maycee Barber (13-2, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif.) in a pivotal matchup
• No. 6 ranked lightweight Mateusz Gamrot (23-2 1 NC, fighting out of Poznan, Poland) takes on No.11 Rafael Dos Anjos (32-15, fighting out of Rio De Janeiro, Brazil) in a high-level bout
• Former UFC champion and the current No. 5 bantamweight contender Petr Yan (16-5, fighting out of Yekaterinburg, Russia) meets No. 7 Song Yadong (21-7-1 1 NC, fighting out of Heilongjiang, China) in a highly anticipated matchup
• No. 11 ranked bantamweight contender Pedro Munhoz (20-8 2 NC, fighting out of São Paulo, Brazil) goes toe-to-toe with Kyler Phillips (11-2, fighting out of Glendale, Ariz.)
• The always exciting Michel Pereira (28-11, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) takes on knockout specialist Michal Oleksiejczuk (19-6, fighting out of Barki, Poland) at middleweight
• Dana White’s Contender Series alumnus CJ Vergara (12-4-1, fighting out of San Antonio, Texas) collides with Assu Almabayev (18-2, fighting out of Almaty, Kazakhstan) at flyweight
• Heavyweight Robelis Despaigne (4-0, fighting out of Santiago de Cuba, Cuba) makes his UFC debut againstJosh Parisian (15-7, fighting out of Escanaba, Mich.)

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.

###

About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 700 million fans and 233 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 active fighter roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 75 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS^®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is owned by global sports and entertainment company Endeavor and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram and TikTok: @UFC.

ABOUT KASEYA CENTER 

Located in the center of booming downtown Miami and the Entertainment District, Kaseya Center—home of the NBA Champion Miami HEAT—hosts 80+ non-basketball events each year including A-list concerts, family shows, sporting events, national conferences and more. Built with state-of-the-art sound and lighting and HD and electronic media signage inside and out, the impressive 19,600-seat Kaseya Center is currently ranked the #1 arena in Florida for the ninth consecutive year—and the 12th time during the past 13 years—according to both Pollstar and Billboard’s 2023 year-end rankings. Kaseya Center is also among the leading facilities in the country for hosting Latin entertainment. The Center has led the renaissance of downtown Miami over the past two decades, helping to transform the area into a thriving arts and entertainment district. The facility has hosted more than 1,200 events including diverse musical superstars such as Marc Anthony, Celine Dion, Ed Sheeran, Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, The Killers, Bad Bunny, Carrie Underwood, Dua Lipa, Tool, Imagine Dragons, Kane Brown, Karol G, Drake, Andrea Bocelli and Paul McCartney, just to name a few. In 2009, Kaseya Center became among the first existing buildings in the country to have achieved LEED certification by the United States Green Building Council for its commitment to sustainability practices. More recently, in 2021, the Arena achieved its second LEED gold recertification. For more information about Kaseya Center, visit kaseyacenter.com. 

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.

LOS ANGELES (January 8, 2024) – Toro Promotions Inc. has announced the signing of undefeated Nicaraguan featherweight prospect Nilo Guerrero, Jr. (7-0, 6 KOs) to an exclusive promotional contract.

Guerrero leads the latest wave of Nicaraguan boxers from the boxing rich Central American country that has produced 17 world champions, including Hall of Famer Alexis Arguello, future Hall of Famer Roman “Chocolalito” Gonzalez, and former world champions Ricardo Mayorga and Rosendo Alvarez, to name some of the more notables.

Gonzalez (51-4, 41 KOs), a five-time, four-division world champion, is still one of the top active Panamanian boxers, along with reigning International Boxing Federation (IBF) Light Flyweight World Champion Felix “El Gemelo” Alvarado (39-4, 34 KOs) and former World Boxing Council (WBC) Flyweight World titleholder Cristofer “El Latigo” Rosales (36-6, 22 KOs).

Guerrero, who was the Nicaraguan Youth National Flyweight Champion in 2016, had 150 amateur matches, including many in international competition. He is freakishly tall, standing 6’ 2”, seven-inches taller than the average featherweight boxer.

“He’s a gangly guy at 6’ 2” who moves like he’s 5’ 2”,” co-promoter Whit Haydon said. “He’s a wild swinger like Mayorga.”

The 22-year-old Guerrero made his  United States and Toro Promotions debuts this past Saturday night at Emerald Queen Casino and Hotel in Tacoma, Washington. Guerrero turned in an auspicious performance, flooring Chancellor Battenberg in the first and second rounds enroute to a second-round technical knockout.

Nilo is scheduled to return to the ring February 15^th at Soboba Casino in San Jacinto, California.

New York City, NY (January 8, 2024) The Fastest Rising Star in Boxing, ‘King’ Callum Walsh, (9-0, 7 KOs), of Cork, Ireland will return on Friday, March 15, St. Patrick’s Day Weekend to

The Theater at Madison Square Garden and broadcast globally on UFC FIGHT PASS, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports.

The 22-year-old Irish phenom will defend his WBC USA Silver Super Welterweight Title for the third time in the ten-round main event.

Debuting in New York City 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).

“I’m honored to be fighting again at Madison Square Garden on St. Patrick’s Pay Weekend,” said Walsh. “The entire fight week experience in New York City was tremendous and I know the atmosphere this time will be even more electric with more fans coming over from Ireland.”

“Callum continues to distinguish himself from any other young fighter,” said promoter Tom Loeffler, President of 360 Promotions. “For him to be headlining at Madison Square Garden, The Mecca of Boxing, twice in four months truly makes a statement for not only his ascent inside the ring but his rapidly growing marketability outside.”

Following a sensational 2023 with four victories, three by knockout, Walsh was named the UFC FIGHT PASS Athlete of the Year.

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.

Further details on this event and ticket information will be announced shortly.

Social Media

#HollywoodFightNights

#UFCFightPass

Instagram

@KingCallumWalsh

@ufcfightpass

@360BoxingPromotions

@TomLoeffler1

@howlerheadwhiskey

@forgedirishstout

@hustlerstores

Twitter

@KingCallumWalsh

@UFCFightPass

@360BoxingPromos

@TomLoeffler1

 @howlerhead

@hustlerstores

Facebook

@UFCFightPass

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@howlerheadwhiskey

Website

www.360Promotions.us

LIVERPOOL, UK (January 8, 2023) – Aaron McKenna versus Linus Udofia is the latest mouth-watering contest confirmed for an action-packed fight card on Saturday, January 20th at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and ESPN+ in the USA. 

The middleweight rivals meet in a special bet365 Wildcard contest for McKenna’s WBC International Title on the undercard of Natasha Jonas’ IBF World Welterweight Title defence against former unified world champion Mikaela Mayer. 

McKenna claimed the WBC International strap with a unanimous points victory over Uisma Lima on June 16th at London’s York Hall. Now 17-0, the 24-year-old is considered one of the division’s most exciting young talents. To continue his upward career trajectory, the ‘Silencer’ must now overcome his toughest test as he takes on former English Champion and British Title challenger Udofia.

With victories over Tyler Denny and John Harding Jr, and a hard-fought split decision loss to Denzel Bentley for the British Middleweight Title, Udofia has established himself as one of the fighters at the top of a stacked domestic division. The 30-year-old from Luton returns to title action following a defeat to Kieron Conway for the WBA Intercontinental Title knowing a victory over the undefeated McKenna can reignite his career and set the stage for a successful 2024. 

“A huge night of boxing in Liverpool just got even bigger,” said BOXXER founder and CEO Ben Shalom. “McKenna vs Udofia is an excellent addition to an already stacked card. It’s a fascinating contest. McKenna has answered every question asked of him so far in his undefeated career. Udofia has tasted defeat but operated at a higher level and will look to use that experience to his advantage in what promises to be a real pick ‘em fight.”

Newly crowned British and Commonwealth Champion Jack Cullen returns to action in Liverpool defending his belts against former foe Zak Chelli. Cullen scored a memorable third-round TKO win over Mark Heffron in September to claim the British and Commonwealth Titles and will square off against former English Champion Chelli in a repeat of their all-action 2020 contest that ended in a draw.

Karriss Artingstall is back in business following a destructive second-round KO win over Vanessa Bradford on October 21st at York Hall. The 2020 Olympic medallist takes on Lila dos Santos Furtado as she looks to continue her climb up the featherweight ranks. 

Mark Jeffers defends his English and Commonwealth Silver Super Middleweight Titles against Germaine Brown. Jeffers claimed the English and Commonwealth Silver Titles with points win over Zak Chelli after accepting a short notice fight last year. The undefeated Chorley boxer makes his first defence against Brown, who will be aiming to recapture the English Title he held in 2022.

Former IBO World Cruiserweight Champion Jack Massey, who took Joseph Parker the distance in a ten-round heavyweight contest in Manchester last year, returns to the ring and the 200lbs limit as he looks to start the New Year with a victory in Liverpool. 

The event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Everlast, WOW HYDRATE and Integritas Property Group.

Tickets are available via BOXXER.com

LOS ANGELES, CALIF. (January 6, 2024): Golden Boy Promotions has kicked off 2024 with another massive signing in the super lightweight division with the recruitment of former U.S. Olympian and former super lightweight World Champion Jose Ramirez (28-1, 18 KOs).

“I’m ready to be a two-time World Champion, and do it right now as well as stay active this year,” said José Ramirez. “I felt Oscar and Golden Boy could deliver both immediately as well as some big fights at this point in my career that I want. This is the most motivated I have been since I turned pro.”

“An Olympic pedigree. An incredible resumé that features two world titles. A massive and loyal fan base — José Ramirez has it all, and we are thrilled to welcome him to the Golden Boy family,” said Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Oscar De La Hoya. “Our plan for Ramirez is simple: get him back in the ring quickly, keep him active against the best of the best and show the world that he is still among the cream of the crop in the super lightweight division.”

“We know our value, and had to get a plan,” said Rick Mirigian, manager to Jose Ramirez. “Golden Boy stepped up and showed that Jose would be a priority to them with the deal he was given. The fights that can now be made at 140 in house are among the best in all of the sport, as Golden Boy has now taken a strong hold on the most exciting division in boxing.”

Jose Ramirez is a proud representative of Avenal, California – a small, farm-working town in the Central Valley. The 31-year-old has built an impressive resume since his professional debut in 2012 after representing the U.S. in the Olympic Games. Ramirez quickly rose to the top of the rankings and became the WBC Super Lightweight World Champion in 2018, after a unanimous decision victory against Amir Imam at Madison Square Garden in New York City. He successfully defended his title against Antonio Orozco (September 14, 2018) and Jose Zepeda (February 2, 2019). He went on to unify the WBC and WBO titles against Maurice Hooker on July 27, 2019, and successfully defended the two belts against Viktor Postol on August 29, 2020. He bounced back after his only blemish against Josh Taylor in a fight for undisputed on May 22, 202, with consecutive wins against Jose Pedraza (March 4, 2022) and Richard Commey (March 25, 2023). 

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy.

Vergil Ortiz Jr. came back after a 17 month layoff to score a dubious first round stoppage over Fredrick Lawson in a 10-round middleweight bout at The Virgin Hotel in Las Vegas.

In the opening round, Ortiz drove Lawson back with a jab, and followed up with a flurry of punches that Lawson took. The punches were getting through but not enough for Tony Weeks to stop the bout, but the veteran referee did in fact stop the contest at 2:33.

Ortiz, 157 lbs of Grand Prairie, TX had several fights cancelled due to illness, but got back on this night to raise his perfect mark to 20-0 with all wins coming early. Lawson, 152.4 lbs of Accra, GHA is 30-4.

“I’m ready for anyone. It felt like I’m back to doing what I usually do,” said Vergil Ortiz Jr. “This is my calling; this is what I was made to do and I want to continue doing this. There’s a lot of fighters that I want to fight, but Tim Tszyu, with all due respect, I want him next. He’s a hell of a fighter and it would be an honor to take him next.”

Barroso Shocks Davies in 1; Wins Interim Super Lightweight Title

Ismael Barroso won the WBA Interim Super Lightweight title with a stunning first round stoppage over Ohara Davies.

Barroso landed the first hard left of the fight that hurt and eventually put Davies on the canvas. Davies was hurt badly and ate more power shots and was sent to the canvas for a second time. Upon getting to his feet, referee Celestino Ruiz stopped the bout at 1:53.

Barroso, 139.6 lbs of El Tigre, VEN is 25-4-2 with 23 knockouts. Davies, 140 lbs of Hackney, ENG is 25-3.

“When I started boxing, they told me that I have a lot of power, and with God on my side I have that power.” said Ismael Barroso. “When I threw the first punch, I knew I had hurt him, I knew that I had him. The public has been calling for the fight with Romero, and I just want to say, I’m right here!”

Arnold Barboza Jr. stops Ndongeni After 8

Arnold Barboza Jr. was dominant in stopping Xolisani Ndongeni after round eight of a scheduled 10-round super lightweight bout.

Barboza slowly broke Ndongeni down and tuned up the in round eight as he battered Ndongeni all over the ring. referee Raul Caiz Jr. stopped the bout in between rounds eight and nine.

Barboza, 139.4 lbs of El Monte, CA is 29-0 with 11 knockouts. Ndongeni, 139.2 lbs of Eastern Cape, SA is 31-4.

Curiel Stops Diaz in 8

Raul Curiel remained undefeated with an eight-round stoppage over Elias Diaz in a scheduled 10-round welterweight bout.

In round five, Diaz began to bleed around the left eye. Later in the round, Curiel landed a right hand around that eye that put Diaz on the canvas. Curiel continued to bear up Diaz and the fight was stopped at 1:06 of round eight-eight

Curiel, 146.8 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is now 14-0 with 12 knockouts. Diaz, 146.2 lbs of National City, FL is 12-2.

TACOMA, Wash. (January 5, 2024) – Last night’s first worldwide pro boxing event of 2004, “Pit Stop on Road to Greatness,” presented by Toro Promotions and Whitfield Haydon Boxing, showcased leading heavyweight prospects who were each impressive at the famed Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington.

“Pit Stop on Road to Greatness” was streamed live on www.bxngtv.com.

It took Armenian heavyweight Gurgen “Big Gug” Hovhannisyan (5-0, 5 KOs) a few rounds to shake off rust, but 6’ 7”, 278-pounder closed the main event with a devastating fifth-round knockout of a game Colby Madison (11-7-2, 7 KOs).

The 25-year-old “Big Gug” hadn’t fought since stopping Micharl Polite Coffie (13-2) on October 15, 2022, and his inactivity showed early against Madison. The fight was somewhat competitive until Madison caught Hovhannisyan with an overhead right in the fourth round that got Gurgen’s attention. He came out for the following round with a vengeance, trapped Madison in a corner, pummeling his opponent with a barrage of unanswered punches, until he crumbled to the canvas for a stirring end to their fight.

In the co-featured event, 2020 Ukrainian Olympian Tsotne Rogava stole the show in his Toro Promotions debut, brutally beating down previously undefeated heavyweight Dante Williams (4-1, 4 KOs) for an awesome knockout midway through the opening round. The Georgia-born Rogava, who stands 6’ 5” and weighed-in at 265 pounds, threw punches that sounded like cannon shots.

Hovhannisyan and Rogava are both trained by Hall of Famer Joe Goossen.

The Special Heavyweight Attraction matching Dante Stone and Alexander “The Great” Flores more than lived up to the pre-fight hype in a crossroads fight that opened the show. Stone (15-1, 10 KOs) extended his winning streak to 15 with an inspiring eight-round unanimous decision over Flores (18-4-1, 15 KOs), who’s previous three losses were all to world champions.

There was only knockdown, more of the flash version, when Stone connected with an overhand right in the eighth round that caught Flores, who fought valiantly from start to finish.

Nicaraguan super featherweight Nilo Guerrero (7-0, 6 KOs) turned in an auspicious United States debut, decking Chancellor Battenberg (2:51) in the first and second rounds, the latter leading to a technical knockout. Guerrero’s younger brother, bantamweight Nelson (2-0, 2 KOs), took on Gilberto Duran (4-8, 4 KOs) in an entertaining battle. Duran hit the mat twice in a bout that was stopped midway through the fourth round in Guerrero’s favor.

Tik Tok sensation Elijah Seawright (10-0, 7 KOs) won a six-round unanimous decision versus super welterweight Henry Rivera (2-3, 1 KO).

Local lightweight Agustin Tovar (1-0) pitched a shutout, winning all four rounds, for a unanimous decision against Ezra Rabin (1-5, 1 KO).

Fans who waited around for the final walkout bout of the night were treated to a non-stop action match, in which another local favorite, Nathan “Superman” Stolen (1-0, 1 KO), won his pro debut by way of a second-round technical knockout over Dazjhante “Flash” Frazier (0-2).

Complete results below:

____________________________________________________ 

OFFICIAL RESULTS

MAIN EVENT – HEAVYWEIGHTS

Gurgen Hovhannisyan (5-0, 5 KOs), Los Angeles, CA by way of Armenia

WKO5 (0:40)

Colby Madison (11-7-2, 7 KOs), Baltimore, MD

.

CO-FEATURE – HEAVYWEIGHTS

Tsotne Rogava (4-0, 4 KOs), Los Angeles, CA by way of Ukraine and Georgia

WKO1 (1:39)

Dante Williams (4-1, 4 KOs), Hawkinsville, GA

.

SPECIAL HEAVYWEIGHT ATTRACTION

Dante Stone (15-1, 10 KOs), Chandler, AZ

WDEC8 (79-72, 78-73M 78-73)

Alexander Flores (18-4-1, 16 KOs), Rowland Heights, CA

SUPER WELTERWEIGHTS

Elijah Seawright (10-0, 7 KOs), Colombia, SC

WDEC6 (60-54, 59-55, 59-55)

Henry Rivera (2-3, 1 KO), Las Vegas, NV

SUPER WELTERWEIGHTS

Nathan Stolen (1-0, 1 KO), Aberdeen, WA

WTKO2

Dazjhante Frazier (0-2), Seattle, WA

LIGHTWEIGHTS

Agustin Tovar 1-0, 0 KOs), Auburn, WA

WDEC4 (40-36, 40-36, 40-36)

Ezra Rabin (1-5, 1 KO), Oakland, CA

SUPER FEATHERWEIGHTS

Nilo Guerrero (7-0 6 KOs), Coachella, CA by way of Nicaragua

WTKO2 (2:51)

Chancellor Battenberg (4-4, 4 KOs), Kingwood, TX

BANTAMWEIGHTS

Nelson Guerrero (2-0, 2 KOs), Coachella, CA by way of Nicaragua

WTKO4 (1:37)

Gilberto Duran (4-8, 4 KOs), Yakima, WA.

HOUSTON, Texas – January 5, 2024 – Red Owl Boxing today announced
that rising welterweight prospects Quashawn Toler and Vlad Panin will
meet for the WBA Continental Welterweight Title in the main event of
_Box Fest VII_ on February 2. The event streams live globally on DAZN
[2] in more than 200 territories and regions from the state-of-the-art
“Owl’s Nest” in Houston. VIP experience packages and general
admission tickets are now available at www.redowlboxing.com [3].

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

Toler (17-1, 12 KOs) is stepping up to face the most difficult opponent
of his eight-year professional career as he makes his Red Owl Boxing
debut. The Cincinnati native fought only once in 2023, a dominating
third-round knockout against veteran Alexander Monterrosa. In 2022,
Toler fought five times including three knockout victories on the road
in Colombia. The 31-year-old returns to the United States with a mission
to insert himself into the contender picture at 147 pounds.

“This fight is very important to me and it gives me a chance to put my
name In the mix of fighters to look out for,” said Toler. “This
fight will put me one step closer to getting everything I’ve been
striving for in boxing. I deserve to be on that superstar level. My
opponent has never fought anyone like me and he is just another hurdle
in the way of me making my dreams come true so I must knock him out. I
will punch the snooze button on him, live on February 2 on DAZN. This is
the perfect platform for me to officially introduce myself to those who
may have not heard of me yet.”

Panin (17-1, 10 KOs) returns to the ring after a similarly quiet 2023
but looks to make a statement as he also enters the ring against his
most accomplished opponent to date. The 28-year-old made his Red Owl
Boxing debut in 2022 at the Brampton, Canada arena with an impressive
first-round knockout over Ricardo Lara. The Gomel, Belarus-native who
lives and trains in Southern California, is currently riding a
five-fight knockout streak.

“Thank you to Red Owl Boxing for the opportunity to display my skills
in a great main event,” said Panin. “On February 2, I’m gonna show
everybody why they’ve all been avoiding me and put the whole
welterweight division on notice.”

_BOX FEST VI _will feature multiple attractions including rising
prospects, gritty veterans and action-packed fights, beginning at 8:30
p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. CT. Subscribe at DAZN.com and download the app on any
connected device.

“Following a successful and exciting series debut in 2023, we are
excited to return on February 2 with a strong lineup of prospects and
future contenders in truly competitive matchups,” said Gabriel Fanous,
President of Red Owl Boxing. “Credit to all the fighters for taking
difficult fights and daring to be great, which is at the core of our
mission at Red Owl Boxing as we look to deliver the best combat sports
entertainment to fans around the world on DAZN.”

The undercard will include several standout Houston prospects such as
Breyon Gorham, Ram Gandara, Lazaro Diaz and Jose Camacho Torres. The
full Box Fest VII event card on February 2*:

?      Quashawn Toler (17-1, 12 KOs) vs. Vlad Panin (17-1, 12 KOs) –
Eight Rounds at 147 lbs.

?      Breyon Gorham (15-0, 13 KOs) vs. Wilfredo Flores (10-1-1, 5
KOs) – Eight Rounds at 140 lbs.

?      Frank Zaldivar (4-0, 2 KOs) vs. Rilwan Oladosu (19-0, 11 KOs) –
Eight Rounds at 132 lbs.

?      Edel Gomez (8-0, 7 KOs) vs. Dale Pruit (8-0, 6 KOs) – Eight
Rounds at 175 lbs.

?      Akeem Cheatam (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Isaiah Johnson (Pro Debut) – Four
Rounds at 140 lbs.

?      Lazaro Diaz (2-0, 1 KO) vs. TBA – Four Rounds at 140 lbs.**

?      Seam Brewer (4-1, 3 KOs) vs. Ram Gandara (6-0, 2 KOs) – Four
Rounds at 126 lbs.**

?      Jose Camacho Torres (7-0, 3 KOs) vs. Luis Alberto Lopez (6-1, 3
KOs) – Four Rounds at 122 lbs.**

*Card subject to change.

**Not scheduled to air on DAZN.

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

For more information on Red Owl Boxing and to purchase tickets, visit
www.redowlboxing.com [3]. Fans can follow Red Owl Boxing on X [4],
Instagram [5] and YouTube [6].

ABOUT RED OWL BOXING

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

Click here [7] if you’re interested in learning more about being
featured on the BOX FEST series.

Links:
——
[1] http://RedOwlBoxing.com
[2] https://www.dazn.com/RedOwlBoxing
[3] http://www.redowlboxing.com
[4] http://www.x.com/redowlbox
[5] https://www.instagram.com/redowlboxing/
[6] https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp2GSRC32G4iOOKoiGzEoBA
[7] https://www.redowlboxing.com/houston-pro-fighter-information/