10-ROUND SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT MAIN EVENT LESTER MARTINEZ – LUCAS DE ABREU MARTINS OFFICIAL WEIGH IN RESULTS

Plant City, FL (July 11, 2023) — Star Boxing’s Brazilian super middleweight, LUCAS DE ABREU MARTINS (14-3 11KO’s) is set to take on undefeated Guatemalan, LESTER MARTINEZ (15-0 13KO’s) tomorrow night, July 12, at the ProBox Event Center in Plant City, Florida. The 10-round super middleweight bout will air live on Probox.TV and the ProBox Youtube channel.

Both De Abreu and Martinez weighed in today ahead of their clash, with De Abreu coming in at a fit 166.6 lbs and Martinez coming in at 165.6 lbs. De Abreu always comes to fight, having made a good account of himself against top prospects, Diego Pacheco, Ernesbadi Begue, and Darrelle Valsaint. Tomorrow night he looks to be a stiff test for Martinez who is coming off an emphatic TKO victory over Isaiah Steen this past April.

Tune in to ProBox.TV or the ProBox Youtube page to watch the LIVE along with the rest of the five fight card.




FURY VS NGANNOU: WHO IS THE BADDEST MAN ON THE PLANET?

RIYADH, Saudi, Arabia (July 11, 2023) —TYSON FURY, THE undefeated Lineal and WBC heavyweight champion of the world, and Francis Ngannou, the former UFC heavyweight champion, will collide on Saturday, October 28th in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in an epic showdown between two giants of their fields following the opening of Riyadh Season.

The clash to find out who is the “Baddest Man on the Planet” will take place under the official rules of professional boxing, with 3 judges ringside adopting the 10-point must system. Both fighters however are promising to meet in the middle of the ring, go to war and win by knockout in devastating fashion.

An agreement has been reached with Queensberry, Top Rank and Ngannou’s promotional banner, GIMIK Fight Promotions, to partner with Riyadh Season to host the history-making event that will capture the imagination of fight fans around the globe.

The world will discover who can rightly claim the title of “Baddest Man on the Planet” in the capital of the Kingdom, when “The Gypsy King” goes up against “The Predator” to determine the true Heavyweight King.

The fight will see the toughest chin in boxing tested by the Most Powerful Punch in the world, as confirmed by the Guinness World Records. This is a matchup where there will be no quarter given.

The mega-fight, one of the richest in history, will take place in a regulation boxing ring under the standard boxing rules in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s largest city.

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Tyson Fury: “As soon as that bell goes, it’ll be bombs away! This guy is supposed to be the hardest puncher in the world, but let’s see how he reacts when he gets hit by the Big GK. I can’t wait to get back out there under the lights. I’m looking forward to showing the world that The Gypsy King is the greatest fighter of his generation in an epic battle with another master of his craft. Francis looked tough when he jumped in the ring after the Whyte fight, but there is no one tougher than me, and you’ll all see that in devastating fashion on October 28. I’d like to thank my promoters Frank Warren and Bob Arum, my manager Spencer Brown, and the guys at Riyadh Season for making this incredible event possible. It’s going to be a fight for the ages. Get up!”

Francis Ngannou: “I’ve been waiting to meet Tyson in the ring for the past three years. My dream was always to box, and to box the best. After becoming the undisputed MMA Heavyweight Champion, this is my opportunity to make that dream come true and cement my position as the baddest man on the planet.  I’d like to thank Riyadh Season and my team at 3Point0 Labs for helping put this event together. All I will say to Tyson for now is he better dance in that ring because if I touch him, he’s going to sleep.”

His Excellency Turki Alalshikh (Chairman of the Board of the General Entertainment Authority and Head of Riyadh Season): “Riyadh Season 2023 is back for its fourth edition of world class experiences and live events — keeping its claim as one of the most anticipated entertainment seasons worldwide. Following its opening ceremony, Riyadh Season 2023 will kick-off with an electrifying boxing match on October 28th, 2023. MMA and boxing audiences will witness the ultimate clash between two champions, Tyson Fury against Francis Ngannou. This face-off will set a new standard for such an event.”

Frank Warren (Queensberry Chairman): “This heavyweight clash has ‘war’ written all over it. Tyson Fury is the most exciting heavyweight on the planet. It is a game changer; we didn’t want to wait for Tyson to get out and here we are at Riyadh Season in a super-fight. Tyson is at his best when he is breaking new boundaries and this event is one of a kind. History will be made in Riyadh with a battle of the giants from the two leading codes of combat fighting. Tyson is the true King of the Ring and Francis Ngannou will present an intriguing challenge as he has the much publicised Most Powerful Punch in the world, this guy has a sledgehammer in each hand. Can Tyson avoid the sledgehammer all fight? What happens if it lands? It will be a truly spectacular event and Riyadh Season will provide a stage fit for two champions in one boxing ring.”

Bob Arum (Top Rank Chairman): “Tyson Fury is one of the finest heavyweight boxers in history, and he now has an opportunity to lock horns with an MMA legend. This will be a historic event, and we know that Tyson Fury will put on a tremendous fight. The people of Riyadh and fight fans around the world are in for a real treat.”

Marquel Martin (Chief Executive Officer, 3Point0 Labs): “Francis has been defeating the odds since he was born and so has Tyson from what I understand. Both are ‘Kings’ of their respective heavyweight divisions in their primes, and we finally get to see whose head is fit to wear the crown. We have all the respect in the world for Tyson and his team, but they are not accustomed to dealing with a force of nature like Francis. He’s simply BUILT DIFFERENT and I think Tyson will feel that in the Ring come October 28th in Riyadh. History is made here and we’re very much looking forward to shocking the world once again.”

Andrew Cutrow (Chief Business Officer, 3Point0 Labs): “All due respect in the world to a heavyweight fighter of Tyson’s calibre, sitting up there with the Mike Tysons and Muhammad Alis of the world, but there is no one with the will and fight that Francis has. He’s beaten every insurmountable challenge in his life, whether in the ring or in life, and it’s fair to say that NO ONE wants to be on the end of one of his punches. Riyadh should get ready for a fight for the ages – one that will go down in history as one of the greatest sporting events of this generation.”

Tyson Fury background:
The undefeated Fury, 34, the 6-foot-9 self-styled Gypsy King with a record of 33-0-1 (24 KOs), first became unified world heavyweight champion back in November 2015 when he toppled the long-standing ruler Wladimir Klitschko.

Dusseldorf, Germany, was the scene of one of the biggest upsets in heavyweight history, when the unified king was befuddled by the bashful Brit. The Ukrainian was completely outfoxed by his younger challenger and Fury wasn’t to be denied. Klitschko was parted from his four belts and Lineal champion status.

After a lengthy period out of the ring, Fury teamed up with Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren to plot his route back to heavyweight domination and, after just two return fights, he accepted the challenge of taking on the previous WBC champion and biggest puncher in world boxing, Deontay Wilder, in December 2018.

The outcome was a hotly disputed draw, which ensured the Fury-Wilder chapter still had a couple more pages to run. Fury linked up with Top Rank and ESPN in America, and a rematch with Wilder took place in February 2020. Fury took many experts by surprise by stating his intention to meet the ferocious hitter in the centre of the ring.

To that end, he teamed up with old comrade SugarHill Steward in order to maximise his own offensive weapons. True to his word, Fury rocked Wilder and put him down in the third and fifth before the towel came in from Wilder’s corner just over halfway through the seventh.

An absolute thriller took place in October 2021 in Las Vegas. Fury picked up where he left off and put Wilder to the canvas in the third before a spirited revival from the ‘Bronze Bomber’ saw Fury down twice in the fourth. The champion prevailed convincingly in the end, with Wilder down the 10th and then out for count in the 11th. An epic trilogy had played out before the eyes of the world.

London was calling when a mandatory defence against WBC interim champion Dillian Whyte was called by the governing body. There was only one place fit to stage the homecoming of The Gypsy King and a packed to the rafters Wembley Stadium became Fury’s field of dreams. Wembley is traditionally known as the ‘Home of Legends’ and Fury added his name to the illustrious list with a spectacular sixth-round stoppage in front of 94,000 spectators.

Fury sold out another stadium last December, this time Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with 60,000 people braving the night air to see him overwhelm Derek Chisora for a third time via a 10th-round stoppage in what represented a third defence of his WBC world championship.

Francis Ngannou background:
Ngannou, 36, 17-3 (12 KOs) has a life-story that most wouldn’t believe possible. The 6’4, 280-pound physical specimen, hailing from Batie, a small village in Cameroon, Africa, grew up working in a sand quarry starting from the age of 10. At 22 years old, harbouring a dream to box, Francis decided to leave on foot across the Sahara, traveling on raft across the Strait of Gibraltar on a life-threatening journey, only to find himself homeless on the streets of Paris, walking into a gym. It didn’t take long for his coaches and peers there to realize his raw talents and God-given power to knock people out.

He was encouraged to enter an MMA tournament to make some extra cash in November 2013, and less than 8 years later, Francis would become the UFC’s first-ever African Heavyweight Champion, knocking out arguably the greatest Heavyweight in UFC History, Stipe Miocic, spectacularly in the second round. In January 2022, Ngannou defended his title against the undefeated interim UFC Champion Ciryl Gane, winning the fight via unanimous decision, all while fighting on a torn ACL and MCL against doctors’ guidance.

In late 2022, Ngannou decided to enter free agency and departed the UFC following the end of his contract, subsequently signing an unprecedented mega-deal as a global strategic partner with global MMA co-leader Professional Fighters League (PFL) and their Super Fights Division in 2023, further serving as the Chairman of PFL Africa, set to launch in 2025.

About Riyadh Season:
Saudi Arabia’s capital embraces one of the world’s biggest entertainment event every year during winter. Since the launch of the Riyadh Season in 2019, the festival has welcomed visitors from all over the world to experience thousands of concerts, sporting events, dining experiences and other unique cultural events. In 2023, Riyadh Season will commence on Saturday, 28 October with a spectacular opening ceremony and an historic boxing match between Tyson Fury and Francis Ngannou.




WBA Minimum Weight Resolution

The World Boxing Association (WBA), through its Championships Committee, issued a resolution for the minimum weight in which it ordered a Purse bid between Thammanoon Niyomtrong and Erick Rosa for next July 21, to be held via Zoom




WEIGHTS FROM NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE (July 10, 2023)–Weight’s for Tuesday night’s Jimmy Adams Promotions card at The Troubadour Nashville.

Victor Hernandez 133.6 – Mike Fowler Will weigh in Tuesday

Desmond Lyons 139.6 – Ivan Reyes 140.2

Eric Arellano 224.4 – Javier Frazier 204

Ermes Orta 139 – Jason Page Jr. Will weigh in Tuesday

Kevin Torian 198.4 – Raphael Carolina 200.6

Promoter: Jimmy Adams Promotions

Venue: Troubadour Nashville

1st Bell: 7 PM CT (8 PM ET)

Free Stream: countrybox247.com / FITE.TV (Marc Abrams & Former NFL All-Pro Albert Haynesworth on the call)




King’s Promotions back at The El Corral West Night Club in Fort Worth, Texas

Fort Worth, Texas (July 10, 2023)–After a successful debut in Fort Worth, Texas on April 27th, King’s Promotions will be back for what will be an entertaining night of boxing this Thursday night at The El Corral West Night Club.

In a six-round featured bout, Emmanuel Moreno (3-0) of nearby Wichita Falls, Texas takes on Manuel Chavez Garcia (1-1) of Mexico in a bantamweight fight.

In Four-round bouts:

Jose Gomez (3-0) of Dallas battles Raul Garcia Jr. (2-9,1 KO) of Oklahoma City in a welterweight bout.

Alex Araiza Mones (0-1-1) of Fort Worth fights debuting Macy Breaux of Larose, Louisiana in a bantamweight contest.

Jaycob Ramos (1-0) of Plano, Texas fights an opponent to be named in a featherweight bout.

Malik Calhoun Khalil (2-1, 2 KOs) of North Richland, Texas takes on Austin Dulworth (0-3) of Dallas in a middleweight contest.

Jordan Najar (1-0) of Fort Worth, Texas fights debuting Raymond Goodine in a super bantamweight fight.

Fernando Solis (1-0) of Fort Worth, Texas boxes Raul Zamudio of Pasadena, Texas in a featherweight bout.

Nathaniel Vincent of Grand Prairie, Texas will make his pro debut against Daniel Gray of Laurens, South Carolina in a welterweight bout.

Tickets are $200, $100, $60 and $40 and can be purchased at

CLICK FOR TICKETS




HARLEM EUBANK BOLSTERS LEE MCGREGOR HOMECOMING SHOW 

Harlem Eubank will tackle Ishmael Ellis in Edinburgh next week, as Lee McGregor’s huge homecoming show becomes ever bigger. 

The unbeaten Brighton stylist fights Ellis over 10 rounds, live and free-to-air on Channel 5, at the Meadowbank Sports Centre, on Friday, July 21. 

‘Lightning’ McGregor headlines the show by taking on Mexican puncher Erik Robles for the vacant IBO world super bantamweight title on what promises to be an emotionally charged night in the Scottish capital. 

Now, super lightweight contender Eubank has been confirmed for the hard-hitting undercard, which already boasts the UK’s most fearsome heavyweight prospect, Matty Harris, world-ranked super featherweight star, Sultan Zaurbek and returning featherweight contender Isaac Lowe. 

Wasserman Boxing, in association with Ladbrokes, Numan and Infinitum Entertainment, can also reveal that heavyweight Kash Ali will face Bodhan Myronets over six rounds on an evening not-to-be-missed. 

The full card, with emerging talents and local heroes still to be announced, will be confirmed in the coming days. 

Harlem Eubank said: “The super lightweight scene is on fire at the moment, both domestically and internationally, and I know I am on the cusp of some huge fights. 

“And because those big fights are on the horizon, there is no room for error, so I have to be firing on all cylinders in Edinburgh on July 21. 

“But training has gone very well, and I plan on making a statement in front of the Scottish fans.”  

Kalle Sauerland, Global Head of Boxing at Wasserman Boxing, said: “This is going to be a breakthrough year for Harlem, where his career goes to new levels. 

“He dealt brilliantly with a late replacement, as the headline fighter, at York Hall in March and now, in Edinburgh next week, he gets to show what he is all about to a new audience. 

“Harlem is on the brink of some massive nights and, mark my words, he will be the next Eubank to become a world champion.” 




DKO Boxing’s Undefeated and World Ranked Junior Lightweight William Foster III to face Fradimil Macayo This Wednesday Night in Plant City, Florida

New Haven, CT (July 10, 2023)–World ranked junior lightweight contender William Foster III will be back in action this Wednesday night when he takes on Fradamil Macayo at The Probox Event Center in Plant City, Fl.

The fight will headline a card on ProBox TV beginning at 7:30 PM ET 

Foster has a record of 15-0 with nine knockouts. The 29 year-old is ranked number 15 by the WBA. His resume includes wins over Sulaiman Segawa (10-0), Angel Suarez (8-2), Jahmal Dyer (9-2), Donald Smith (10-0), world rated and fast rising contender Edwin De Los Santos (13-0) and in his most recent bout he scored a convincing win over Avery Sparrow on July 23, 2022 in Philadelphia.

Macayo is a power punching southpaw from Venezuela who has a record of 16-1 with 13 knockouts. Macayo has wins over undefeated fighters Jose Luis Marcano (9-0) and Armando Ramirez Almanza (5-0-1).

?“We are excited to see the best William Foster the world has seen to date on July 12. He gets better every time he steps in the ring. He has had a great camp and his coach always has him fully prepared for battle. William is a true warrior who is ready and willing to take on any of the division’s elite. This bout is for two regional titles (WBA Fedecentro and WBO Global). He is already ranked in the WBA and with a win over Macayo he will crack the WBO world ratings which means he is then one phone call away from a well deserved world title opportunity. His recent victories over Edwin De Los Santos and Avery Sparrow coupled with an impressive showing against Macayo should catapult William up the world rankings. His resume of victories is quite impressive for someone with only 15 fights! By facing and defeating such stiff competition William is fully prepared for anything that he sees in the ring. It is just a matter of time before William is recognized as the class of the 130 pound division!”, stated David Dubinsky of DKO Boxing, Foster’s Co-Manager.

Said Foster, “Camp went really well. I sparred more than 78 rds for this fight and I sparred with different types of fighters, my coach always pushes me beyond my limits.. I expect Macayo to be the pressure fighter and try to take the fight to me but he seems smart enough to not go straight in. I’m going to surprise him with my speed and skills that I have developed over the years and with a victory I am hopeful to get a world title fight next. I’ve been in the business long enough and it’s time to get my shot at the title.”




Tommy “The Governor” Hyde & Thomas “The Kid” O’Toole Fighting again in adopted home

QUINCY, Mass. (July 10, 2023) – Like some of his fellow countrymen in the past, undefeated Irish light heavyweight prospects Tommy “The Governor” Hyde (5-0, 3 KOs) and Thomas “The Kid” O’Toole (7-0, 5 KOs) have traveled across “the pond” from their native Ireland to Boston in order to enhance their professional boxing careers.

They will both be fighting on the August 11th (Aug. 12th rain date) on the “Veterans Stadium Showcase” Pro-Am card, presented by Granite Chin Promotions (GCP), at Veterans Memorial Stadium on Quincy (MA), a suburb of Boston only 10 miles to the south of the Massachusetts capital.

“This card wouldn’t be complete without some Irish flair to it,” GCP president Chris Traietti said. “With that said, I didn’t want just any Irish fighters on the show. I wanted two of the hottest prospects. Working with both guys has been a pleasure. Their teams have been great. Their fan-bases are in for a treat come August 11th.”

They’ve built solid fan-bases of Irish natives who now live in the United States, as well as Irish American boxing fans, just like their predecessors from the Emerald Isle, world champion Steve Collins and Mike Tyson-conqueror Kevin McBride.

Although Hyde and O’Toole will be fighting in separate six-round bouts this could be a prelude to a showdown between the Irish light heavyweights. They fought twice as amateurs with each winning one and in the future, they could be matched against each other once again, only this time as professionals.

Tommy Hyde (L) – (picture credit: Garreth Croke)

The 24-year-old Hyde is a three-time Irish National Champion who had an 80-26 amateur record. His father, Gary Hyde, is an international matchmaker who has represented numerous world champions.

“I am delighted to be fighting in Boston again,” Hyde said. “It’s like a second home now. I have a lot of family and friends living there and they all show me great support when I’m fighting there. It’s a big boxing city and it’s great to be following in the footsteps of Steve Collins and Kevin McBride who I really admire.

“I fought all over the world as an amateur in 2019. I fought outdoors in a multi-national tournament in Odessa, Ukraine. It was a really good experience, so I’m really looking forward to fighting outdoors in a Boston stadium.

“This will be the second show we shared since we’ve been pros and it probably won’t be the last. A fight between us could be big down the line in Boston or Ireland. He’s an Irishman like me, so I’ll be supporting him until we fight just like any other Irish boxer.”

Hyde faces an opponent to be determined.

Thomas O’Toole (R) – (photo credit: Emily Harney / Fightography

O’Toole, 25, is another celebrated Irish amateur boxer who captured top honors in the Haringey Box Cup and Irish Elevate final, in which he decisioned Hyde. “The Kid” won 51 of 60 amateur matches. Ten Years ago, O’Toole fought outdoors for the first and only time in an amateur show at Boston City Hall, arranged by then- Boston Mayor Marty Walsh.

A southpaw, O’Toole lives in nearby Braintree (MA). Six of his seven pro matches have been held in Greater Boston, the lone exception in Manchester, New Hampshire. “The Kid” is moving up one division to fight Massachusetts cruiserweight champion Scott “Scottie Bombs” Lampert (5-8, 4 KOs) for the vacant United States Boxing Federation (USBF) cruiserweight crown.

“Fighting outdoors does make a difference,” O’Toole commented, “especially if it’s hot and humid. I couldn’t prepare for fighting outdoors here in the summer if I was training in Ireland. We don’t have hot and humid weather there. I’ve been training here in this weather. It’s amazing how the weather can zap your strength. It did have an effect on me when I fought in Boston outdoors as an amateur.

“Tommy and I have gone our separate ways as pros, but our paths may grow down the line. We haven’t seen much of each other when we fought on the same card here. He is coming on very well in the pro ranks. He has a good man behind him in his father, Gary, and I think Tommy can go far. He’s said that a fight between us can easily be made if it makes sense. I agree. We both have big fan bases. This is going to be an amazing, fun night.”

Irish eyes will certainly be smilin’ Aug. 11th in Quincy.

In the eight-round, main event, former New England Welterweight Champion Mike “Bad Man, Ohan, Jr. (18-2, 9 KOs), of Holbrook, and Haverhill’s Harry “The Hitman” Gigliotti (9-4, 3 KOs), reigning ABF Atlantic super lightweight title holder, will throw-down in a non-title fight.

United States Boxing Federation (USBF) Champion Julien “Black Dragon” Baptiste (5-3, 2 KOs), of Woburn, and Massachusetts titleholder Jamer Jones (3-1, 3 KOs), of Pittsfield, are in a middleweight unification bout for their titles in the eight-round co-featured event.

Gigliotti’s stablemates, undefeated Lowell lightweight Gabriel “The Menace” Morales (7-0, 4 KOs) and unbeaten Methuen middleweight Luke “The Quiet Storm” Iannuccilli (6-0, 3 KOs) will also be in action, respectively, versus Nathan Benichou (2-16-1, 2 KOs) and Ryan Thomas Clark (2-4, 1 KO).

Also fighting on the undercard is undefeated middleweight prospect Francis “Frank The Tank” Hogan (14-0, 13 KOs), of nearby Weymouth (MA), will be in action, as well as Scituate heavyweight Kevin Nagle (2-0, 2 KOs), vs. TBAs. Hogan was a celebrated amateur who was a 2020 USA Boxing Olympic Team alternate as well as a 2010 New England Golden Gloves champion.

Card subject to change.

Tickets for “Veterans Stadium Showcase,” are on sale and available for purchase online at www.EventBrite.com.

Sponsorship opportunities are available by contacting Traietti at chris@granite-chin-promotions.com for details.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. ET with the amateur matches starting at 6:30 p.m. ET, pro card commences at 8 pm. ET.

INFORMATION:

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

Twitter: @Granite_Chin

 




“ROCKIN’ FIGHTS” 45 ANNOUNCED FOR SATURDAY OCTOBER 28, 2023 AT THE PARAMOUNT

Long Island, NY (July 10, 2023)– Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing’s critically acclaimed fight series, “Rockin’ Fights” is back at The Paramount in Huntington Long Island on Saturday, October 28, 2023.

Star Boxing is proud to present the 45th “Rockin’ Fights” professional boxing card at The Paramount. The Paramount has become a second home to Star Boxing, developing the likes of world champions Chris Algieri and Joe Smith Jr., along with other top prospects and talent that have graced the squared circle in Huntington, Long Island. Star Boxing is pleased to continue the tradition of action-packed fights on Long Island and is looking forward to another thrilling show on October 28th.

Tickets for “Rockin’ Fights” 45 will be available via presale and public on sale at the following times:

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS




Schofield Decisions Rhodes

San Antonio, TX—Floyd “Kid Austin” Schofield, 134.5 14-0 (11KOs) of Austin, Tx fought Haskell Rhodes 134.5 Lbs 28-4-1 (13KOs) fighting out of Las Vegas, NV. The pressure of headlining a major card did not have a negative effect on the young prospect he even braced it during the match. As this was a last minute change due to Vergil Ortiz having to withdraw by fainting Thursday. While it was not what the fights wanted when booking their trip, he gave the fans a show that almost forget it was a Vergil fight card. Dealing with the affect of homelessness one can say it helped him take on big adversities head on with out hesitation and welcome any new challenges. 

In what looked to be a quick fight as Schofield was out classing rhodes in the first 2 rounds snapping his head back with powerful jabs, and being poised not leaving himself open for a counter punch. Then the fight evened out as Rhodes started to garner some energy taking Schofields shots and giving him some as well. That all changed once the 7th round came as Floyd at the half way point of the round floored Rhodes with a short left hook to the face beating the 10 count Rhodes got up and regrouped but it short lived as he was knocked down again by a barrage of punches with 56 second left in the round. Looking to close out the schofield was in fifth gear in the 8th attacking and getting the 3rd knock down of the fight. With a uppercut to the body that had a delay getting Rhodes to the mat, similar to a liver shot would take. Dangerously having the count reach 8 almost 9 this time, none the less Rhodes did get up and continue to make it out of the round. In the 9th round schofield was cut under his left eye but not from a punch rather a brutal headbutt opening a huge gash.

Before the start of the last round(10th) the referee took Schofield to see the ring side doctor in which he said the fight can continue, Floyd used the crowds energy to electrify his performance to closed out the night. With all 3 Judges and everyone in the AT&T Center seeing it 100-87 unanimous decision in favor of “Kid Austin”. When asked about the headbutt he stated “its boxing you have to face adversity” and then called out 2020 silver medalist Keyshawn Davis 8-0 (6KOs) “send the contract and stop playing”. In the post fight conference Schofield again followed up calling out Davis, how ever his co-promoter Bernard Hopkins had another idea by putting it out there that he should Jojo Diaz next.

 Joseph “JoJo” Diaz Jr. 141.5 Lbs 32-4-1 (32KOs) the pride South El Monte CA faced Jerry Perez 138Lbs 14-2-1 (11KOs) Harbor City, CA

JOJO looked re focused as he stated in the weigh ins. Even though Jojo he missed weight From the first round he was sharp and used his ring experience to his advantage. Staying to get what he needed then backing out not letting Jerry the chance to offer what he had. Perez did not back down as JoJo was giving him some hard shots. As the fight continued Perez gained some traction and he and JoJo went back and forth giving the fans a performance to talk about. In the 5th round Diaz look to have stunned Perez with a left hook to the side of the head. Followed by a combination to the head of Perez in which he took the hits well. The fights entirety was a fight that fans can enjoy with both fighters going at it and not backing down. JoJo came out the winner and rightfully so, earning a unanimous decision judges Alvarez and Robles scoring it 97-93 and Ciaz having it 98-92. In post fight conference Diaz stated that he felt Great physically and mentally, wants to be a good role model for the younger generation. JoJo did look refocused in the ring tonight as he utilized his experience and boxing skills and called out the names of William Zepeda 28-0 24KOs in which he lost by unanimous decision, Shakur Stevenson, and another revenge match with Mercito Gesta 34-3-3 17KOs who he lost by Majority Decision in March of this year.

Marlén Esparza 111.5 13-1 (1KO) Houston, TX vs Gabriela Alaniz 14-0 (6KOs) fighting out of Buenos Aries, ARG in this Fly weight fight for the unified title from the first bell rang both fighters came out swinging and had the interest of the crowd. ‘La Chucky’ landed a few more and cause Esparza to bleed from her left eye. In what could be the flight of the night  it was all action with Gabriela’s relentless straight forward attack and Marlens counter punches. As the fight went on each fighter proved they were ready give it their all and leave it in the ring. In the weigh in Marlén stated that “La Chucky is just a name of a doll and is not scared” which she proved standing and exchanging blows. Gabriela stated that she is “excited and wants to win”. Both  of these women are giving the fans what they were selling. In a phone booth type fight it went the distance with Espraza edging Alaniz by Majority Decison 95-95, 99-91, 97-93 on the 3 judges score cards. With the disapproval from the crowd who thought “La Chucky” Alaniz won the fight getting boos from her home state fans. 

Eric Tudor 155.5 8-0 (6KOs) of Fort Lauderdale FL took on Reggie Harris Jr 162.5 7-3 (3KOs)  what a way to start the broadcast with a quick knock down as Tudor sends Harris jr to the mat with a monstrous right hook to the head. The action continued to the  3rd with both fighters exchanging punch leading up to Harris losing his mouth guard. 

Harris had the better forth by stunning Tudor and sending him to the ropes, trying to capitalize on it, Harris rush but was met with better defense. Not landing any clear shots Tudor recovered and even starting to tease Harris by patting his head, before again knocking his mouth guard out.           

Harris took advantage of how low tudors kept his left hand through out the fight especially in the 7th round. However Eric seemed to still be in control stunning Reggie with a left and rights to the head but what did most damage was a left to his ear is what made Harris wobble. Tudor closed out the bout earning a hard fought win by Unanimous decision 77-74 on one of the judges and with the other two scoring the bout 78-73. In the post fight conference Tudor told reporters that the weight advantage played a role and he made the mistake of making the fight harder than it should have been. He looks to continue to develop through the remaining of the year and wants to keep active.

Tristan “Sweet T” Kalkreuth 10-1 7(KOs) Duncanville, TX took on “Mighty” Joe Jones 13-8 (10KOs) of Jersey City, NJ 2nd fight on the Schofield VS Rhodes undercard. Sweet T made his 12th pro fight look too sweet. Utilizing his right hand to dominate the fight knocking down Jones 2 times in the 2nd round almost not making the count each time, taking full advantage of the 8 count. The 3rd and final knock down was was enough for Sweet T to end the fight. The official time was 2:12 of the 2nd by Knock out.

In a Dynamite opening attraction, Darius Fulghum 176.5LBS 5-0 (5Kos) of Houston TX lived up to his nickname “TNT” taking out Jeremiah Curtright 178.5LBS 2-1 (2Kos) of ST. Charles MO by TKO. The referee stopped the bout in the 3rd at the 2:17 mark. Since the 1st round Darius used his boxing skills to penetrate Jeremiah Curtrights High and tight defense. Knocking Jeremiah mouth piece twice before the round ended. In the 2nd it was more of the same Darius was getting through the guard using upper cuts, TNT took a clean right but it did not faze him. Curtright was worn out by the end of the round stopping and taking some deep breathes and then leaning on the ropes before sitting. Knowing his opponent was tired Fulghum took advantage and came out to end the fight Knocking down Jeremiah twice with right hooks to the head. Using a combination of body shots and uppercuts the referee came in to stop the bout earning him his 6th victory and with 6 Kos. 




Jaron Ennis stops Villa in 10; Retains Interim Welterweight Title

ATLANTIC CITY — Jaron Ennis retained the IBF Interim Welterweight title with a 10th round stoppage over Roiman Villa at The Adrian Phillips Ballroom inside Jim Whalen Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City.

The fight started off with Ennis showing his superior ability that featured his hand-speed as he landed big shots from both the orthodox and southpaw stance. The effects of Ennis’ work were evident as early as round two, as blood began to leak from the nose of Villa. Ennis continued to draw oohs and ahhs from the fans as he landed some eye catching shots. Villa showed a tremendous chin as he was rocked several times, but was sturdy on his feet. Villa tried to fight back valiantly and even got some hard right hands and mixed in a couple scoring uppercuts.

Ennis really started pouring on the fire in rounds eight and nine as his assault had Villa fortunate to get out of the rounds. The ringside doctor checked Villa after each frame and decided to let the fight continue. That would last only 87 seconds into round 10 as Ennis landed a hard chopping left hand that was followed by a pinpoint right that finally sent Villa to the canvas and the fight was stopped.

Ennis of Philadelphia is now 31-0 with 28 knockouts. Villa of Venezuela is now 26-2.

JARON ENNIS

“My performance was good. I could have listened to my corner a little more. My dad wanted me to do more body shots and more angles and not stand in front of him. I was getting hit with shots I wasn’t supposed to get hit with.

“I appreciate Villa taking this fight. Hats off to him and his family. I appreciate him for coming in and being a warrior. Let’s give it up for Villa. He’s a tough guy.

“I was breaking him down and I came out victorious. I knew he was a tough kid. I just had to be smart and take my time and keep touching and touching and eventually I was going to get him.

“We got to wait for Errol Spence and Bud to fight and you know I want the winner of that fight.

“I was setting him up. I hit him with a big left hand and I knew he was going down. So I was waiting for the left shot and I threw a hook and I knew he was going so I just threw one more and that was it. I knew they were going to stop it.

“Spence-Crawford is a great fight, a 50-50 fight, may the best man win. And Jaron “Boots” Ennis wants the winner of Errol Spence and Terence Crawford. Let’s make it happen.

“I’ll take Stanionis. Virgil Ortiz fell out so I’ll take Stanionis in a heartbeat. I want to get into the ring one more time before the end of the year to make it three. Stanionis, Keith Thurman, Ugas, Bud, Spence, all the top guys out there. Let’s make these fights happen.”

Marquis Taylor Decisions Yoelvis Gomez

Marquis Taylor won a 10-round unanimous decision over Yoelvis Gomez in a middleweight fight.

Taylor scored a knockdown in round two when he landed a right hand to the side of the head that put Gomez down on the canvas. Taylor continued to beat Gomez to the punch and worked the body well. Gomez tried to make a stand late by attempting to land power shots, but they were not effective.

Taylor landed 160 of 712 punches. Gomez was 120 of 549.

Taylor, 158 lbs of Galena Park, TX won by scores of 99-91 and 96-93 twice and is now 15-1-2. Gomez, 159 lbs of Las Vegas is 6-1.

MARQUIS TAYLOR

“Only through God’s grace am I able to do this. I want to thank everyone who put this together. Mom we did it.

“This is what I wanted to do my whole life. It took me a long time and a lot of battles to make it here. But it was all worth it.

“I proved to myself that I can be in here with anyone and overcome and prevail.

“This is my second weight class in nine months. I proved it to myself. It’s not about the weight. It’s about skill and hard work and trusting my team.

“I was working inside and staying close and boom. Luckily when he threw his shot he kind of fell off balance and I helped him.

“At first I’m not going to lie at the beginning of the fight it was hard because he’s really strong. He was doing what he’s supposed to do and that’s use his weight and push me down, so I had to get into his midsection and break him down, so I started tapping that belly and pushing in.

“I knew the safest space to be with him was inside. Outside he has crazy power so I had to cut it off and smother him so that’s what I did. I really hope to be back on here [on SHOWTIME] and give the fans what they pay for.

“After I dropped him I was like, okay, the body shots are going to get to him and I knew I had to keep him moving back. I’m going to keep him on his heels. He’s kind of a bully in the ring and bullies don’t like to be pushed back like that.

“I started to get him to second guess himself which took away his confidence in throwing power shots. It’s dangerous when a power puncher has a lot of confidence because you can make only so many shots miss. Some will get through.

“We’re fighting at 154 and 160 to keep the window of opportunity as wide as possible. Right now we’re calling myself a two-weight division fighter.

“Tim Tszyu – if he wants to stay busy I’ll fight him. Because he’s not going to get that Jermell Charlo fight because of Canelo. I would like to fight him or anyone in the top 5 or top 10 at 160. It’s time for me to fight the best.”

YOELVIS GOMEZ

“Of course I’m frustrated. The ref kept getting in the way and wouldn’t let me work in the range I wanted, short distance and making Taylor feel me. This is professional boxing. It’s not too much to ask for him to let me go do my job.

“I lost my balance when I got knocked down. He threw his punch trying to see if it landed and I got caught. I hurt him too, but I couldn’t take him down.

“I know that my team is sad right now, but I refuse to mope or hang my head. I’m going to keep working hard and come back even better. You can count on that.”

De Los Santos Decisions Adorno

Edwin De Los Santos won a 10-round unanimous decision over Joseph Adorno in a lightweight bout.

De Los Santos landed 144 of 470 punches; Adorno was just 37 of 240.

De Los Santos, 133.1 lbs of Santo Domingo, DR won by scores of 100-90 twice and 99-91 and is now 16-1. Adorno, 135 lbs of Allentown, PA is 17-3-2.

EDWIN DE LOS SANTOS

“Adorno came to basically survive in this fight. We came prepared to show our boxing skills in this fight tonight.

“I can’t tell you all the tricks we did in training. But we did a lot of hills, climbing, swimming, a lot of boxing, sparring. Again, I don’t want to reveal all of the secrets but that’s some of what was done for this fight.

“I have the potential to be more disciplined and to do more boxing and wait for the big names.

“I have to just talk to my promoter (about what’s next). But I don’t care. Anyone at 135 I’ll take care of.”

JOSEPH ADORNO

“The strategy was to box him, but he’s a southpaw and he was hard to figure out. He’s the best southpaw I’ve faced. He was well-prepared and knew how to manage the ring.

“Moving down in weight did play into my performance a little, but I really don’t want to make any excuses. I shouldn’t have taken this fight right away, I should have fought at 137-pounds first. It is what it is though, he was the better man. He did his job.”

Euri Cedeno demolished William Townsel inside of a round in their scheduled eight-round battle of undefeated middleweights.

Cedeno came out and threw some vicious power punches and dropped Townsel with a hard left hand. Cedeno jumped on Townsel and landed some more hard shots and the fight was stopped as Townsel was dropped again at 1:41.

Cedeno, 159 lbs of La Romana, DR is 5-0 with five knockoouts. Townsel, 157.5 lbs of Virginia Beach is 5-1.

Heavyweight Steven Torres remained undefeated with a third round stoppage of James Evans in a rematch of a draw that took place 19 months ago.

In round three, Torres battered Evans against the ropes until the bout was stopped at 1:08.

Torres, 239 lbs of Reading, PA is 6-0-1 with six knockouts. Evans, 225.5 lbs of Toledo, OH is 6-1-1.

Dwyke Flemmings Jr. remained undefeated by stopping Henry Rivera in round three of a scheduled four round super welterweight bout.

In round two, Rivera began to bleed from the nose. Flemmings continued to beat up a game Rivera until the bout was stopped at 1:57 of round three.

Ismail Muhmmad stopped Parker Bruno in round three of a scheduled four-round super lightweight bout.

In round two, Muhammad was credited with a knockdown after landing a right hook that made Bruno’s globe touch the canvas. Later in the round, Muhammad dropped Bruno with a straight left hand. In round three, Muhammad continued to batter a Bruno, whose nose was bloody and the bout was stopped at 1:45.

Muhmmad, 143 lbs of Philadelphia is 2-0 with two knockouts. Bruno, 141 lbs of Clear Lakes, TX is 0-2.




Pacheco Stops Gallegos in 4

Diego Pacheco stopped Manuel Gallegos in round four of their 10-round super middleweight bout in Monterrey, Mexico.

Pacheco was impressive as he hurt Gallegos in round four with a hard combination and then he dropped Gallegos with a left hook to the body. Pacheco then landed about eight hard shots to the head that forced a referee stoppage at 2:45.

Pacheco, 168 lbs of Los Angeles is 19-0 with 16 knockouts. Gallegos, 168 lbs of Los Mochis, MEX is 19-2-1.

Eduardo Hernandez stopped late-replacement Hector Garcia in round three of their 10-round lightweight bout.

In round two, Hernandez rocked Garcia and had him in trouble throughout the latter part if the round. Garcia was cut under his right eye. In round three, Hernandez was all over Garcia as he landed a big left hook that was followed by a big right that was followed by a 20 punch combination that put Garcia down and the fight was stopped at 25 seconds.

Hernandez, 137 lbs of Mexico City is now 34-1 with 31 knockouts. Garcia, 137 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 20-8-4.

Jonathan Rodriguez and Israel Gonzalez battled to a 10-round split draw in a bantamweight bout.

Each fighter won a scorecard by a 96-94 score and a third card was even at 95-95.

Rodriguez, 115 lbs of San Luis Patosi, MEX is now 24-2-1. Gonzalez, 115 lbs of Los Cabos, MEX is 29-5-2.

Neider Valdez remained undefeated with a third round stoppage over Isaias Ortiz in a flyweight contest.

In round three, Valdez landed a hard left to the body that put Ortiz to the canvas. Ortiz could not beat the count at 1:50.

Valdez, 108 lbs of Monterrey, MEX is 9-0-2 with eight knockouts. Ortiz, 109 lbs of Mexico City is 5-4.

Federico Pacheco stopped Oscar Heredia after round two of their four-round heavyweight victory.

In round two, Pacheco dropped Heredia with a double left hook to the body. Heredia was in a lot of discomfort after the round and did not answer the bell.

Pacheco, 254 lbs of Los Angeles is 4-0 with three knockouts. Heredia, 252 lbs of Monterrey, MEX is 2-3.




ENNIS VS. VILLA OFFICIAL WEIGHTS AND COMMISSION OFFICIALS

Interim IBF Welterweight Title – 12 Rounds

Jaron Ennis – 145 ½ lbs.

Roiman Villa – 146 ½ lbs.

Referee: David Fields; Judges: Lynne Carter (Pa.), Mark Consentino (N.J.), John McKaie (N.Y.)

Middleweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Yoelvis Gómez – 159 lbs.

Marquis Taylor – 158 lbs.

Referee: Harvey Dock; Judges: Ronald McNair (N.Y.), Robin Taylor (N.Y.), Paul Wallace (Md.)

Lightweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Edwin De Los Santos – 133 lbs.

Joseph Adorno – 135 lbs.

Referee: Charles Fitch; Judges: Ronald McNair (N.Y.), Robin Taylor (N.Y.), Paul Wallace (Md.)

SHOWTIME BOXING COUNTDOWN

Stream Live at 7:30 PM ET/4:30 PM PT

on the SHOWTIME SPORTS® YouTube Channel and SHOWTIME Boxing® Facebook Page

Middleweight Bout – Eight Rounds

Euri Cedeno – 159 lbs.

William Townsel – 157 ½ lbs.

Referee: Eric Dali; Judges: Ronald McNair (N.Y.), Robin Taylor (N.Y.), Paul Wallace (Md.)

Heavyweight Bout – Six Rounds

Steven Torres – 239 lbs.

James Evans – 225 ½ lbs.

Referee: Eric Dali; Judges: Ronald McNair (N.Y.), Robin Taylor (N.Y.), Paul Wallace (Md.)

Super Welterweight Bout – Four Rounds

Dwyke Flemmings Jr. – 156 ½ lbs.

Henry Rivera – 156 ½ lbs.

Referee: Charles Fitch; Judges: Ronald McNair (N.Y.), Robin Taylor (N.Y.), Paul Wallace (Md.)

Veteran sportscaster Brian Custer will host the telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo will handle the blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion Abner Mares. Three Hall of Famers round out the telecast team – Emmy®-winning reporter Jim Gray, world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon, Jr., and boxing historian Steve Farhood, who will serve as unofficial scorer. The executive producer is four-time Emmy Award winner David Dinkins, Jr. and the director is Bob Dunphy. Sportscaster Alejandro Luna will call the action in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP) with former world champion and SHOBOX: The New Generation® commentator Raúl “El Diamante” Marquez serving alongside him as the expert analyst. 

The SHOWTIME BOXING COUNTDOWN show is hosted by award-winning MORNING KOMBAT live digital talk show hosts Luke Thomas and Brian Campbell, who also serves as an analyst alongside Marquez on SHOBOX®, as well as by Stephen Jackson, the former NBA champion and co-host of the popular show ALL THE SMOKE®.

# # #

ABOUT ENNIS VS. VILLA

Ennis vs. Villa will see undefeated rising star Jaron “Boots” Ennis defend his Interim IBF Welterweight Title against all-action contender Roiman Villa headlining action live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, July 8 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT and will also feature rising Cuban sensation Yoelvis Gómez taking on middleweight contender Marquis Taylor in the 10-round co-main event, plus hard-hitting lightweight knockout artist Edwin De Los Santos faces former amateur superstar Joseph Adorno in the explosive 10-round telecast opener.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #EnnisVilla,  follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.




GOLDEN BOY FIGHT NIGHT: MEXICO EDITION UNDERCARD FINALIZED

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO (July 7, 2023) – The undercard is set for the July 15 Golden Boy Fight Night: Mexico Edition show featuring No. 3 WBC-ranked Alan “Rey David” Picasso (24-0-1, 13 KOs) fighting against Sabelo Ngebinyana (15-6-1, 11 KOs) of Cape Town, South Africa. The 10-round fight is now for the WBC Silver Super Bantamweight Title and will be an eliminator for a world championship. Presented in association with Zanfer Boxing, the event will take place at Restaurante Arroyo, and broadcast on Azteca TV in Mexico and worldwide on DAZN.

In the co-main event, Monterrey, Mexico’s Rafael “El Divino” Espinoza (20-0, 17 KOs) will fight in a 10-round featherweight match against Ally “Gent Mawe” Mwerangi (12-6, 8 KOs) of Morogoro, Tanzania. Espinoza was last seen on March 25 with an impressive third-round knockout over Rafael Rosas Ramirez.

Also representing Monterrey, Aaron Silva (12-0, 9 KOs) will attempt to keep up his knockout streak in an eight-round super middleweight fight against Hassam “La Sombra” Valenzuela (20-4-2, 16 KOs) of Hermosillo, Mexico. Silva was last seen dazzling the crowd with a fourth-round knockout against Jaime Hernandez last March 2023.

In a six-round super bantamweight fight, Gregory “Goyo” Morales (14-1, 8 KOs) of San Antonio, Texas will face Mexico City’s Rodolfo Montoya (30-13-1, 28 KOs). Morales was last seen scoring a unanimous decision win against warrior Diuhl Olguin last December 2022.

Opening the fight card and returning to the ring after a successful debut performance this past May 2023, Santa Ana’s Johnny “Sugarcane” Cañas (1-0) will fight Hugo Vega (1-3-1) of Mexico City. The two will participate in a four-round super lightweight fight.

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

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




Thompson Boxing Promotions Bids Farewell After 23 Memorable Years of Promoting Boxing in California

ORANGE, CA (July 7, 2023) – After an illustrious and groundbreaking journey spanning over two decades, Thompson Boxing Promotions, founded by the late Ken Thompson, has made the difficult decision to conclude its operations. Thompson Boxing will be holding its final “Path to Glory” show on Friday, July 21, 2023, marking the end of an era that has left an indelible mark on the sport.

Louie Lopez (13-2-1, 4 KOs) will headline in a welterweight 8-round main event against an opponent TBA. George Acosta (15-1, 2 KOs) will fight an opponent TBA in an 8-round super featherweight co-feature. 

Thompson Boxing Promotions, renowned for its commitment to promoting world-class boxing events, has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of California’s boxing scene. Throughout their remarkable journey, Thompson Boxing has showcased countless talents, supported aspiring fighters, and provided memorable moments for fans from all walks of life.

Under the visionary leadership of the late Ken Thompson and the guidance of General Manager and matchmaker Alex Camponovo, Thompson Boxing Promotions has consistently delivered high-quality events, placing a strong emphasis on integrity, respect, and fairness. From the unforgettable nights at the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, and the action-packed evenings at the Omega Products International Event Center in Corona, California, Thompson Boxing Promotions has left an extraordinary legacy that will forever be cherished.

Alex Camponovo expressed his gratitude to the fans and fighters who have been part of this incredible journey. “We are deeply grateful to our loyal fans, who have been the driving force behind Thompson Boxing’s success over the years. Their unwavering support and passion for the sport have been truly inspiring. We also extend our heartfelt appreciation to all the fighters we have had the privilege to represent. It has been an honor to work with such exceptional talent for the past 23 years, and we take pride in the role we played in their careers.”

Throughout its existence, Thompson Boxing Promotions has built a reputation as a promoter dedicated to the development of young fighters, providing them with a platform to showcase their skills and pursue their dreams. The organization’s commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the sport has been commendable, as it consistently embraced fighters from various backgrounds and nurtured their potential.

As the curtain closes on Thompson Boxing Promotions, the boxing community acknowledges the incredible impact the organization has had on the sport. The legacy of Ken Thompson will continue to inspire future generations of promoters, fighters, and fans.

“Path to Glory” will take place at the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, CA on Friday, July 21, 2023. Doors open at 6:45 pm PT with the first fight starting at 8:00 pm PT. Tickets priced $50, $75, $100, and $125, are available for purchase by calling 714-935-0900 or online at www.thompsonboxing.com. 

Fight fans will be able to watch all Thompson Boxing fights, weigh-ins, and behind-the-scenes content, via their new Mobile App downloadable on Apple and Google.




THREE BATTLES OF UNBEATENS ENTER THE RING IN SHOWTIME BOXING® COUNTDOWN SHOW THIS SATURDAY, JULY 8 AT 7:30 PM ET/4:30 PM PT

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. – July 7, 2023 – Unbeaten prospects will square off in a trio of matchups highlighting the SHOWTIME BOXING COUNTDOWN live streaming presentation this Saturday, July 8 from Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J. in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Action live on the SHOWTIME SPORTS YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page will begin at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT and is topped by 2020 Dominican Olympian Euri Cedeño taking on fellow unbeaten William Townsel in an eight-round middleweight affair. The lineup will also see a rematch of unbeaten heavyweights as Steven Torres and James Evans look to settle the score after their January 2022 split-draw and super welterweights Dwyke Flemmings Jr. and Henry Rivera compete in a four-round battle.

The live stream is hosted by award-winning MORNING KOMBAT live digital talk show hosts Luke Thomas and Brian Campbell, as well as by Stephen Jackson, the former NBA champion and co-host of the popular show ALL THE SMOKE®, who will all be ringside for the three bouts.

These fights precede a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® tripleheader headlined by undefeated rising star Jaron “Boots” Ennis defending his Interim IBF Welterweight Title against all-action contender Roiman Villa in a telecast that starts at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.com. The Ennis vs. Villa fight is promoted in association with D&D Boxing and Sampson Boxing.

The 23-year-old Cedeño (4-0, 4 KOs) will make his U.S. debut on July 8, having stopped all four of his opponents since turning pro in October 2022. Representing La Romana, Dominican Republic, Cedeño comes from a boxing family as both his younger brother and sister box, with the 2020 Olympian Euri leading the way in the pro ranks. He will be opposed by the 28-year-old Townsel (5-0, 4 KOs), who enters this bout having scored two knockouts so far in 2023. Originally from Pine Bluff, Arkansas, Townsel now resides in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

Fighting out of Reading, Pennsylvania, Torres (5-0-1, 5 KOs) burst onto the pro scene in December 2019 and went on to stop his first five opponents in two rounds or less. The 25-year-old first went toe-to-toe with Evans (6-0-1, 6 KOs) on New Year’s Day 2022, as the two supersized heavyweights fought to a split draw. A 30-year-old from Toledo, Ohio, Evans has added stoppage wins over Geovany Bruzon and Marcus Maulding since their 2022 clash.

The 19-year-old Flemmings (3-0, 3 KOs) turned pro in December 2021 and has earned three-straight stoppages heading into Saturday night. A native of Paterson, New Jersey, Flemmings most recently stopped Assuan Jones Chatman in the first round of their September 2022 matchup. He will be opposed by the 33-year-old Rivera (2-0, 1 KO), who fights out of Las Vegas and is originally from Oakland, California. Rivera’s last outing saw him earn a TKO over Tyre Rivera in April 2023.

The non-televised lineup will see super lightweight prospect Ismail Muhammad (1-0, 1 KO) in a four-round clash against Texas’ Parker Bruno (0-1).

#         #         #

ABOUT ENNIS VS. VILLA

Ennis vs. Villa will see undefeated rising star Jaron “Boots” Ennis defend his Interim IBF Welterweight Title against all-action contender Roiman Villa headlining action live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, July 8 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J.. 

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT and will also feature rising Cuban sensation Yoelvis Gómez taking on middleweight contender Marquis Taylor in the 10-round co-main event, plus hard-hitting lightweight knockout artist Edwin De Los Santos faces former amateur superstar Joseph Adorno in the explosive 10-round telecast opener.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #EnnisVilla, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.




WEIGHTS AND RUNNING ORDER FOR PACHECO VS. GALLEGOS

4 x 3 mins Heavyweight contest
 
Federico Pacheco Jr. (254lbs) vs.   Oscar Heredia (252lbs) 
Los Angeles, California                      Monterrey, Mexico
 
Followed by
 
8 x 3 mins Flyweight contest
 
Neider Valdez (108lbs)         vs.     Isaias Ortiz (109lbs)
Monterrey, Mexico                           Mexico City, Mexico
 
Followed by
 
10 x 3 mins Bantamweight contest 
 
Jonathan Rodriguez (115lbs) vs.    Israel Gonzalez (115lbs)
San Luis Potosi, Mexico                     Los Cabos, Mexico
 
Followed by
 
10 x 3 mins Lightweight contest
 
Eduardo Hernandez (137lbs)         vs.     Hector Garcia (137lbs)
Mexico City, Mexico                                    Tijuana, Mexico
 
Followed by
 
10 x 3 mins WBO International and USWBC Super-Middleweight titles
 
Diego Pacheco (168lbs)        vs.     Manuel Gallegos (168lbs)
Los Angeles, California                     Los Mochis, Mexico




MOST VALUABLE PROMOTIONS’ SHADASIA GREEN TO FACE OLIVIA CURRY ON THE JAKE PAUL VS. NATE DIAZ PAY-PER-VIEW ON SATURDAY, AUGUST 5TH AT THE AMERICAN AIRLINES CENTER IN DALLAS, TEXAS

DALLAS – July 6, 2023 – Today, Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) and Real Fight Inc. (RFI) announced that two super middleweight powerhouses, Shadasia “The Sweet Terminator Green” (12-0, 11 KOs) and Olivia Curry (7-1, 2 KOs) will be joining the Jake Paul vs. Nate Diaz pay-per-view card live on August 5th. The 10-round matchup will be contested at 168 Ibs at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, TX. Green, the universally recognized number one contender, comes to the ring off her latest dominating victory, a 6th round TKO, over former unified world champion, Elin Cederroos, back in February. Curry, who boasts a decisive five-bout winning streak, will put her power and skill to the test as she steps in against the powerful Green. Rounding out the card will be Real Fight, Inc.’s  Alan Sanchez (22-5-1, 10 KOs) vs. Angel Beltran Villa (17-1, 10 KOs) as they go head-to-head in an 8-round welterweight bout. 

The Paul vs. Diaz pay-per-view is presented by Celsius Essential Energy drinks and will be distributed globally by DAZN PPV. In the US and Canada in addition to DAZN PPV, Paul vs. Diaz will be available on all major cable and satellite pay-per-view providers. All tickets can be purchased at https://www.ticketmaster.com/mvp-jake-paul-v-nate-diaz-dallas-texas-08-05-2023/event/0C005EA581B12549

Green, the former Team USA star who boasts an impressive 12-0 record with 11 KO’s and the record for fastest KO in a women’s fight, joined MVP after a trailblazing few years in the sport. She is currently the mandatory challenger for Undisputed champion Savannah Marshall’s newly earned WBC, WBO, WBA and IBF belts, which sets up a bout that would be the biggest women’s fight in UK history. As a former standout college basketball star, Green spent years as a starter for Old Dominion University (ODU) where she was impressively named Third Team All-CAA and ranked top 20 in the CAA in scoring. The Paterson, NJ native later broke out into the amateur boxing scene when she joined the U.S. National Team as a heavyweight after just five fights, earning a silver medal at the 2016 World Championships in Kazakhstan. In 2019, Green transitioned to professional boxing where she quickly gained notoriety as a top female contender, ranking #1 in the WBC and IBO, and #2 in the WBA, ultimately earning her the Paterson Laila Ali Award. 

“I’m at the top of my game right now,” said Shadasia Green. “I may be next in line for the super middleweight title, but right now, I’m strictly focused on knocking out Olivia Curry. The August 5th card boasts an impressive lineup of fights and it’s an honor to share center stage with female boxing legends like Amanda Serrano and Heather Hardy. I can’t wait to show fans in Dallas and at home exactly why they call me ‘The Sweet Terminator.’”

Curry, the professional boxer out of Chicago, originally hailing from Cincinnati, OH, comes to the ring after winning her last five fights. The 33-year-old began her amateur fighting career in Muay Thai, winning the TBA Classic and fighting the best Class A competition in North America. As an amateur boxer, she won the Chicago Golden Gloves and went on to represent Chicago at the National Golden Gloves three times. Curry was nationally ranked as an elite female and competed at the 2018 USA National Tournament. As a pro, she is ranked in the top 5 middleweight contenders by major sanctioning bodies and The Ring Magazine. Outside the ring, Curry is a commercial filmmaker. She is managed by Trinidad Garcia and Rick Ramos.   

“I’m grateful to MVP and Real Fight, Inc. for the opportunity to fight Shadasia and introduce myself to the world with a bang,” said Olivia Curry. “I’m coming to Dallas to win. I want to show that women’s boxing at the higher, more dangerous weight classes is leveling up.”

RFI’s 32-year-old Alan Sanchez (22-5-1, 10 KOs), hails from Guadalajara, Mexico and has conducted his camp in Stockton, CA. He is the former WBC Continental Americas Welterweight Champion and is coming off consecutive victories that include wins over Saul Bustos (15-0-1) and Jose Miguel Borrego (18-2). Defined by the area’s toughness,  Sanchez is a 147 Ib standout who will take on Angel Beltran Villa who boasts an impressive record of 17-1 with 10 KOs. The 27-year-old from Mexicali, Mexico is currently training in Indio, CA and is entering this fight after an eight-fight winning streak, following his June knockout of Abraham Afful and unanimous decision upset win against Luis Lopez in March. He is managed by Francisco Garcia. 

“Shadasia Green vs. Olivia Curry promises to be an exciting fight from start to finish. I am excited for the world to see why Jake and I are such big believers in Shadasia,” said MVP co-founder Nakisa Bidarian. “For the first time, every member of our current MVP talent roster will be fighting on one card, and I couldn’t be prouder of the team we’ve built. Between the energy of the American Airlines Center, our incredible PPV production with DAZN, and the quality of the Paul vs. Diaz fighters- this night will be legendary.”

“These fights are the final pieces of a main card that showcases the best in boxing, Real Fight, Inc. and Most Valuable Promotions,” said RFI President, Zach Rosenfield. “We wanted to ensure that fans who attend this event and watch it all over the world through DAZN are treated to the best that boxing has to offer, and together we know that is what we are delivering”

Most Valuable Promotions, founded by Paul and Nakisa Bidarian, and Real Fight, Inc., founded by Diaz, are partnering to bring Paul vs. Diaz to global audiences. The strategic partnership will combine the star power and international reach of both fighters to promote the year’s biggest fight. The event is presented by Celsius Essential Energy drinks and will be distributed globally by DAZN PPV. In the US and Canada in addition to DAZN PPV, Paul vs. Diaz will be available on all major cable and satellite pay-per-view providers.

For more information, follow on Twitter via @MostVPromotions, @shaygreen35, and @DAZNBoxing or on Instagram via @shadasia_green, @oliviarosecurry, @MostValuablePromotions, and @DAZNBoxing.

About Most Valuable Promotions (MVP)

Most Valuable Promotions was founded by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian in 2021. With the mission to provide more creative control to fighters, MVP works to identify, grow, and maximize return for its own events and talent partners. One year into its inception, MVP was nominated as one of the prestigious Sports Breakthroughs of the Year in 2022 by Sports Business Journal. MVP has produced Jake Paul’s last four global pay-per-view events, including the recent Paul vs. Fury match, which surpassed 800,000 Pay-per-view buys worldwide. The promotion company also signed one of the most decorated Hispanic athletes of all time, Amanda Serrano in its first year. Serrano and MVP made history in April of 2022 when Serrano went head-to-head with Katie Taylor, marking the first female fight to headline at Madison Square Garden, recently earning a nomination for Event of The Year by Sports Business Journal. Co-founder Nakisa Bidarian was an executive producer of the historic Triller Presents Mike Tyson v. Roy Jones Jr., which was the 8th most bought pay-per-view event in history.

About Real Fight, Inc.

Founded by mixed martial arts legend Nate Diaz, in 2022, Real Fight Inc. promotes exactly what the name suggests — the fights people want to see, featuring the realest fighters from all over the world. Since his departure from the UFC, Diaz is extending his business empire with a true all-around combat experience that will focus on boxing, MMA, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. The inaugural event under the Real Fight, Inc. banner is set to take place on August 5, 2023, when Diaz makes his long-awaited professional boxing debut against Jake Paul at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas.  The card will also feature RFI fighters, Chris Avila, Alan Sanchez, Jose Aguayo and Luciano Ramos

About DAZN:

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

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

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

DAZN is available on most connected devices including smart TVs, set-top boxes, streaming sticks, smartphones, tablets, PCs and game consoles, ensuring that fans have access to a ground-breaking rights catalog and slate of incredible content. In the UK and globally, DAZN can be accessed on Samsung, LG, Sony and Panasonic Smart TVs and on Games Consoles including PlayStation and Xbox. Subscribers also have access to DAZN on their Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Google Chromecast and Apple TV and can find the app on their iPhone, iPad, and android mobile devices. DAZN is available as an Amazon Channel on Amazon Prime TV and can be viewed on Channel 429 on Sky in the UK and Ireland.  

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

About American Airlines Center:

Designed by architectural wizard David M. Schwarz and Dallas based HKS, Inc., American Airlines Center is considered one of the nation’s top arenas. Since opening its doors in 2001, the Center has been setting the precedent for sporting and live entertainment events. Bringing in a wide variety of big name shows as well as being home of both the Dallas Mavericks and Dallas Stars, American Airlines Center consistently displays its unique versatility. Billboard Magazine named American Airlines Center the 6th busiest arena in the world in 2022.




August 12: Raymond Muratalla-Diego Torres Lightweight Battle Confirmed as Co-Feature to Emanuel Navarrete-Oscar Valdez World Title Showdown at Desert Diamond Arena

GLENDALE, Ariz. (July 6, 2023) – Undefeated contender Raymond “Danger” Muratalla is ascending the lightweight ladder without any delay. 

The 26-year-old Muratalla, who blasted out Jeremia Nakathila in only two rounds in May, makes his third appearance of 2023 in a 10-round clash against unbeaten Mexican standout Diego Torres on Saturday, August 12 at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona. 

Muratalla-Torres will serve as the co-feature to the junior lightweight title showdown between WBO world champion Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete and former two-division world champion Oscar Valdez. U.S. Olympic silver medalist Richard Torrez Jr. opens the televised tripleheader in a six-round heavyweight tilt against Willie Jake Jr. 

Navarrete-Valdez, Muratalla-Torres, and Torrez-Jake will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets starting at $50 are on sale at Ticketmaster.com.

Muratalla (18-0, 15 KOs) is quickly becoming a major threat in his division. He made his pro debut in 2016 in Mexico, and two years later he debuted in the U.S. He has stopped 12 of his last 13 opponents, and he is on track to have his most impressive year yet. In March, he survived a first-round knockdown to stop Humberto Galindo with a body shot in round nine. In May, he opened the Devin Haney-Vasiliy Lomachenko pay-per-view broadcast with his devastating showing against Nakathila. 

Muratalla said, “I couldn’t be more excited to get back in that ring on such a great card. I can’t wait to put on another great performance for the fans. I believe this is my time now, and I will continue to show the hard work that’s being put in.”

Torres (17-0, 16 KOs) is a 25-year-old powerhouse from Zapopan, Jalisco, Mexico. The oldest of four boxing brothers, he began his pro career in 2019 and unleashed a streak of 13 knockout victories. In February 2022, he took on fellow Zapopon native Jonathan Escobedo Martinez, going the 10-round distance for the first time in an all-action slugfest. Torres is 3-0 with three knockouts since the Martinez war. In his last fight, he beat Jose Segura Torres via fifth-round TKO in March. Torres is now set to celebrate his 26th birthday by making his long-awaited U.S. debut. 

“I am very excited about this fight. I think this is a big opportunity for me,” Torres said. “Fighting against another undefeated fighter is something that I was looking for. It is my way of showing that I am made for this, and I am here to achieve great things. I am not afraid. I’m going to give it my all and come out with a great victory.”




ISAAC LOWE JOINS HUGE LEE MCGREGOR HOMECOMING IN EDINBURGH 

Isaac Lowe is the latest addition to the undercard of Lee McGregor’s huge homecoming world title fight next month. 

Live and free-to-air on Channel 5, on Friday, July 21, McGregor battles it out with Mexico’s Erik Robles for the vacant IBO world super bantamweight title. 

The Wasserman Boxing event, delivered in association with Ladbrokes, Numan and Infinitum Entertainment sees McGregor box in front of his home fans for the first time since his pro debut, five years ago. 

And supporting McGregor’s big night, is a packed undercard which now includes Lowe taking on Jonathan Santana in a featherweight dust-up. 

Unfortunately, a small set-back in training has forced the former cruiserweight champion of the world, Mairis Briedis, to withdraw from the Meadowbank Sports Centre event. 

But fans can still enjoy the latest outing for the UK’s most fearsome heavyweight prospect, Matty Harris as he aims to become the first man to stop Kostyantin Dovbyshchenko. 

Sultan Zaurbek, the world ranked Kazak with 10 knockout wins on his record, takes on former European super featherweight champion, John Carter. 

And with further big names, emerging talents and local favourites to be confirmed in the coming days, McGregor’s huge Edinburgh homecoming is one not to be missed. 

Lowe said: “This won’t just be a typical Isaac Lowe performance, I am going to show people I am a good boxer.

“People know I have the heart of a lion and I come to have a fight but there are other ways to win a fight. 

“I provide value for money, there is guaranteed entertainment in my fights. I am far from finished and I plan to put on a good show for the fans.” 

Briedis said: “I was really looking forward to fighting in Edinburgh on July 21. 

“Sadly, I have suffered a small set back in training and so I won’t be ready in time.  

“But I can promise my fans that big fights are coming later this year, and they will put me, and my beloved country of Latvia, back at the top of the sport.”




World Kickboxing Champion Jonathan Giovanni Di Bella Faces Lamberto Macias in GYM boxing main event

MONTRÉAL – (July 6, 2023) — In his Groupe Yvon Michel (GYM) contract debut, former world kickboxing champion, Jonathan Giovanni Dibella (2-0, 1 KOs) will face veteran Mexican bantamweight Lamberto Macias (16-8-1, 12KOs) in the eight-round main event on Thursday, September 7,  at Montreal Casino.

Di Bella, 26, has had a flawless career in combat sports, whether in amateur boxing (6-0), pro kickboxing (11-0) or pro boxing. This will mark Di Bella’s third pro boxing fight, knocking out Jesus Velazquez (3-3, 2 KOs) in his last outing in July 2022, at Montreal Casino.

Macias lost his last fight by way of a 10-round decision against Carlos Cuadras (40-5-1, 27 KOs), the former World Boxing Council (WBA) world champion who is currently ranked No. 5 in the world by the WBC.

In the co-featured event, Canadian light heavyweight Terry Osias (12-0, 6 KOs), who only needed two rounds in both of her last two fights, stopping Swedish Niclas Elfstedt (11-2-1, 6 KOs) and Francy Ntetu (17-5, 4 KOs), will meet Abraham Hernandez Meja (9-5-2, 4 KOs) in an eight-round bout. Osias will be in his 12th fight at Montreal Casino.

Toronto’s Steven Rolls (22-2, 12 KOs), promoter Lou DiBella’s protege, will defend his International Boxing Federation (IBF) North American middleweight title against Sladan Janjanin (36-15, 25 KOs) of Bosnia and Herzegovina, in a 10-rounder.

The elite card will also showcase world welterweight contender Marie-Pier Houle (8-1-1, 2KO), ranked No. 2 by the World Boxing Organization (WBO), who will be in her first fight since her superb performance against world champion Sandy Ryan last April in Cardiff, Wales. Houle is matched against solid super lightweight Cindy Reyes Espinoza (4-1) in an eight-round clash. Espinoza and Houle have one common opponent, Marisol Moreno, who lost twice to Espinoza, and once to  Houle in a very tough fight this past January.

Multi-talented Caroline Veyre (4-0) will participate in her fifth fight in less than a year. She was very impressive in her last two fights, defeating Anaelle Angerville (5-2-1), of France, and Emma Gongora (6-3)..Veyre fights a quality opponent, Karina Travieso “The Relentless” Chavez (5-1), in an eight-round bout.

Popular Montreal light heavyweight Abed Almoty El Safadi (4-0, 1KO) will take on Dylan Rushton (3-9-2, 4 KOs) in a four-rounder, while light heavyweight Mohamed Zawadi (6-1, 5  KOs), who is promoted by  Lee Baxter, squares off against Edison Demaj (10-2, 5 KOs), of Germany, in a six-round confrontation.

DiBella began training very early at the age of two under the guidance of his father. Angelo Di Bella – two-time world kickboxing champion – in the family gym he founded. Jonathan’s first kickboxing fight was at age 10, his first professional fight the following year. He fought all over North America including in the iconic Madison Square Garden. Everyone in Quebec gyms knows Di Bella, as well as throughout the United States, where he served as a training partner for many boxers including several world champions. He received other offers from promoters in boxing, but he chose GYM.

Tickets for the Sept. 7 event are on sale now at ticketmaster.ca or directly from GYM at info@groupeyvonmichel.ca.

ABOUT YVON MICHEL GROUP (GYM):  Groupe Yvon Michel is a professional boxing promotion organization, founded in 2004 by Yvon Michel, Alexandra Croft and Bernard Barré, who are still active in the company, the most prolific in the history of professional boxing in Canada. Since its foundation GYM has promoted 167 events in Quebec, all broadcast in Quebec on RDS, TVA Sports or Radio-Canada, and participated in 37 international events outside Quebec. Eight different GYM boxers have become world champions: Joachim Alcine, Jean Pascal, Adonis Stevenson, Artur Beterbiev, Eleider Alvarez, Marie-Eve Dicaire (twice), Oscar Rivas and Kim Clavel. Nineteen GYM boxers have fought in 56 world championship fights, maintaining an excellent record of 30 wins, 24 losses and 2 draws. During this period, the Major American television networks were more active than ever during this period in terms of broadcasting GYM’s most important events in Quebec.




STANIONIS – ORTIZ JR. OFF AGAIN; STATEMENT FROM GOLDEN BOY PROMOTIONS REGARDING JULY 8 STANIONIS VS. ORTIZ JR. MAIN EVENT

SAN ANTONIO, TX (July 6, 2023):

Statement from Golden Boy Promotions:

“Nothing is more important than the safety of our fighters, and we of course support Vergil’s decision 100 percent. This unfortunate event does however open the door for one of Golden Boy’s top prospects, Floyd Schofield, to accelerate his profile by headlining in his home state of Texas. We will, as always, put on a high-action card from top to bottom on July 8 and look forward to showcasing all of our fighters both in San Antonio and on DAZN.”

More information on the July 8 event will be announced shortly.




BITTER RIVALS ANTHONY JOSHUA AND DILLIAN WHYTE REMATCH AT THE O2 ON AUGUST 12 LIVE ON DAZN PPV

British Heavyweight rivals Anthony Joshua and Dillian Whyte will meet in an explosive rematch at The O2 in London on Saturday August 12, shown exclusively live on DAZN around the world and on DAZN PPV in the UK and Ireland.
 
Two-time unified Heavyweight World Champion Joshua (25-3, 22 KOs) and former World Title challenger Whyte (29-3, 19 KOs) lock horns again nearly eight years on from their wild British Title clash in Greenwich, which Joshua won by a huge seventh-round stoppage to end a thrilling war. 
 
Brixton’s Whyte has a long-running rivalry with Joshua, having beaten the Watford man on points as an amateur back in 2009 before Joshua won an Olympic gold medal at London 2012 which kick-started his meteoric rise to global stardom. 
 
‘AJ’ went on to unify the Heavyweight division, winning the WBA, IBF, WBO and IBO crowns as he became one of the biggest athletes on the planet with a string of wins against the likes on Charles Martin, Wladimir Klitschko, Joseph Parker, Alexander Povetkin, Andy Ruiz and Kubrat Pulev. 
 
The 33-year-old convincingly outpointed Jermaine Franklin at The O2 earlier this year as he returned to winning ways under new trainer Derrick James following back-to-back defeats to Ukrainian pound-for-pound great Oleksandr Usyk in 2021 and 2022.
 
Whyte, whose last win also came via a points decision against the USA’s Franklin last year, fell short in his record-breaking World Title challenge against undefeated WBC ruler Tyson Fury at Wembley Stadium in April 2022, succumbing to a sixth-round TKO loss.
 
The Jamaican-born warrior, 36, has aspirations of fighting for another World Title and knows that a win over his old foe Joshua next month will put him in prime position for another mega-fight against one of the division’s other glamour names later this year. 
 
In the UK and Ireland the PPV will cost £26.99 via DAZN.com. Prices may vary on other providers.
 
“I’ve been clear that my plan is to be active this year,” said Joshua. “August 12 is the date, I’ll be ready to fight. I look forward to dealing with business.”
 
“I’m looking forward to returning to the London O2 on August 12 and going to war,” said Whyte. “It’s 1-1 so this is the decider!”
 
“I can’t quite believe this fight is happening and there was absolutely no stopping either man,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “The rivalry runs deep and there is something about these two where they will never back down from each other. At times it may have looked like a game of bluff but now we are set and with everything that’s on the line this is an absolute must win for both. Just like the first time at The O2, get ready for fireworks August 12 and a huge night of boxing live on DAZN.”
 
“It is great to have Anthony Joshua back fighting on the platform so soon after his fight in April,” said Joseph Markowski, CEO North America, DAZN Group. “We want ‘AJ’ in the biggest fights and in Dillian Whyte this is a massive one – reigniting a feud that has bubbled away for well over a decade. August 12 promises to be fireworks. Watch a night of all out action, live and exclusive on DAZN around the world and on DAZN PPV in the UK and Ireland.”
 
Tickets for Joshua vs. Whyte 2 are priced £40, £60, £80, £100, £150, £200, £300, £400 and £800 (VIP).

Tickets are available to O2 and Virgin Media customers via Priority from 10.00am on Friday July 7. 

Tickets are available via The O2 venue presale and AXS presale from 10.00am on Saturday July 8.

Matchroom Fight Pass members will also be able to purchase tickets from 10.00am on Saturday July 8. Priority ticket info will be emailed directly to eligible members ahead of the on-sale time. 

General Sale tickets can be purchased via Stage Front and AXS from 9.00am on Monday July 10.
 
About DAZN Group 
  
DAZN is a leading sports streaming service in Italy, Spain, Germany, Belgium, Portugal, Japan, Taiwan, Canada, the US and UK.? Its wide range of content includes top-flight football from the world’s most popular competitions – Bundesliga, English Premier League, J.League, LaLiga, Serie A, and the UEFA Champions League, in addition to the biggest sports from around the world – Formula 1, NFL, NBA, MotoGP and the UFC.?  DAZN is the only place for fans around the world to watch every NFL match outside North America.   
  
DAZN is building the ultimate sports entertainment business where fans from across the globe can watch, read, bet, play, share, socialise, buy tickets and merchandise, all in one place, with one account, one wallet and on one app.   
  
For more information on DAZN, our products, people, and performance, visit?dazngroup.com.?? 




DON KING PRODUCTIONS’ VONDA CARSON & JOHN MOCEYUNAS ELECTED TO FLORIDA BOXING HALL OF FAME

DEERFIELD BEACH, FL  (July 5, 2023) – Two of Don King Productions’ longtime members—Vonda Carson and John Moceyunas—were elected to the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame.

Carson and Moceyunas were honored this past weekend in St. Petersburg, FL.

“I am thrilled that the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame has recognized two of Don King Productions’ most dedicated members,” said the World’s Greatest Boxing promoter Don King.  “Vonda Carson and John Moceyunas have always gone above and beyond the call of duty in staging every fight we have presented to boxing fans around the world.  They are certainly true boxing Hall of Famers.”

Vonda Carson has won numerous marketing and sales awards including becoming the first African American women to win the prestigious American Eagle Award for outstanding performance in Sales and Marketing. In her statement.

“I am honored to receive such prestigious recognition, but our achievements in life don’t define our character,” said Carson.  “We must all strive for a greater Good. Changing lives, making a difference in the service of others as was mentioned in my acceptance speech Sunday.  I consider myself a servant of this Great Sport of Boxing.  We are people behind the scenes.

“I am thankful for the Guidance and training I acquired from Don King, Dana Jamison and the Late Bobby Goodman, who inspired and groomed most of us, in Boxing OPS at DKP.  He taught me how to handle opposition and face my challenges head – on!  I would often hear Don say things like failure is not an option!  And “Working Together Works.”  

“It is indeed good to be a Trail Blazer first to be nominated in this Category by the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame class of 2023. I speak for all the Unsung Heroes, who never Fades nor Falter, always able to do what is necessary and needed to get the job done!  It is a tedious job of self-sacrifice, long hours, hard work and dedication, however with all of that we are willing to do It again, an again! 

“We are the servants of this Great Sport! with every Promotional Contract, Bout Agreement, Medical Report, Eye Exam, MRI, EKG, through every travel record, room reservation.  Through our many vast travels from country to country, our many encounters with Bellman, Concierge’s desks, Tramrails, countless numbers Hotel stays from City-to-City countless number border Custom Checks.

“We wouldn’t change a thing! For this is who we are! 

“With every victory and every agonizing defeat the Unsung Heroes knows his or her roll in consoling’s a child after his fathers has been K.O ED! Giving expressions of Love and care to a distraught Wife or Mother. Going to the hospital with the fighter who has a Detached Retina or a Head Concussion, 

“We are Guardians at the Gate, that brings the agonizing news of the bleak report of the Prize fighters, Fate.      For we are the Servants of this Great Sport!  

“I speak for all the Unsung Heroes behind the scenes, I thank you for this opportunity to serve and when my time is done… as I pass the baton on to a younger generation for it is  my prayer that they have, the Passion and Love of this Great SPORT!

“I leave Mahatma Gandhi’s quote “that the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”

Moceyunas has been Don King’s compliance coordinator for more than 29 years.  He rose through the ranks to Director of Operations.

Moceyunas has worked on more than 340 World Championship events including four of nine of the biggest pay per view events of all-time, which results in more than 1 billion dollars in revenue.   

Moceyunas also worked in DKP International Sales and handled the accounting of international sales for 19 years as well as IT operations for the organization.

John and the DKP team worked to digitize and manage the entire Don King Productions fight library consisting of 18,000 tapes including more than 632 events with more than 4,250 bouts and more than 300,000 photographs of some of the most iconic fights in the history of professional boxing.   Moceyunas and the DKP team also developed DonKingTV.com, the very first online streaming portal for boxing back in 2006.  He has streamed events with total views of more than 25 million over his tenure.  John Moceyunas and Team DKP continue to help direct legendary promoter Don King’s television operations.  He directed the first boxing event ever streamed from wireless public internet, worldwide to more than 52 countries on Jan. 29, 2022.




Undefeated Gabriel “The Menace” Morales & Luke “The Quiet Storm” Iannuccilli added to Stacked “Veterans Stadium Showcase” card

QUINCY, Mass. (July 5, 2023) – Undefeated prospects Gabriel “The Menace” Morales (7-0, 4 KOs), a lightweight, and middleweight Luke “The Quiet Storm” Iannuccilli (6-0, 3 KOs) have been added to the already stacked “Veterans Stadium Showcase” Pro-Am card, presented by Granite Chin Promotions (GCP), on Friday night, August 11th (Aug. 12th rain date), at Veterans Memorial Stadium in Quincy, Massachusetts.

Former New England Welterweight Champion Mike “Bad Man, Ohan, Jr. (18-2, 9 KOs), of Holbrook, and Haverhill’s Harry “The Hitman” Gigliotti (9-4, 3 KOs), reigning ABF Atlantic super lightweight title holder, will battle in the eight-round, main event in a non-title fight.

Gigliotti, Morales and Iannuccilli are Reyes Boxing stablemates.

“The future of local boxing is promoters working together not against each other,” GCP president Chris Traietti remarked. “When we combine resources, we can make the shows that fans want to see. Mike Reyes has been great to work with and we are honored to have three of his fighters on this card, one of which is headlining, Gigliotti.”

“It’s a pleasure for Reyes Boxing to be pairing up with Granite Chin to make amazing local fights that people deserve,” Promoter Micheal Reyes added. “Gabby, Harry and Luke all look forward to offering the crowd an amazing show.”

Morales, a union carpenter from Lowell (MA), is fighting in a six-rounder.

“I’m pretty excited about fighting on this show,” Morales said. “I think fighting outdoors will help. I do all my running outside. No roof and cleaner air than if we were fighting indoors in a crowded room. I’m a boxer-puncher who has good output and I can box. I want to keep this train rolling. I was supposed to fight a 5-0 opponent on a show a couple of weeks ago that was canceled. I’m fighting on this show to stay active. I’ll take my time, pick my spots, and get more comfortable in the ring.

“Lowell has always been a special part of me. I want to continue what Micky (Ward) did for our city. There’s no added pressure on me. I’m more honored because Lowell people chose me to watch. I’ve always been around Micky and his brother (Dicky Eklund), because a lot of my family grew up with them.”  

Iannuccilli meets the always tough Maine middleweight Ryan Thomas Clark (2-4, 1 KO) in a six-round fight. Luke recently changed jobs and his position as janitor for the Town of Methuen has enabled him to be fresher during training sessions.

“It’s (changing jobs) made a tremendous difference,” Iannuccilli explained. “I worked manual jobs and then would go straight to the gym after work. That was physically draining. This job isn’t as physically demanding and I get out at 2 o’clock, so I get a nice break, and go to the gym refreshed.

“I’ve never fought outdoors, and I’m really excited about it. I’ve seen posts and pictures of outdoor shows and it’s always been an interest of mine. Outside will help with fresh air, no AC or heat, or fighting in a stuffy room. It’ll play big unless we have a super sunny, hot night.

“I respect all my opponents, but want to fight bigger names, and go after a local title. I was supposed to fight Baptiste (Julien, USBF Middleweight Champion), but it didn’t happen. If we both win on August 11th, I’d definitely be interested in fighting him down the road.”

Baptiste (5-3, 2 KOs), of Woburn, and Massachusetts titleholder Jamer Jones (3-1, 3 KOs), of Pittsfield, are in a middleweight unification bout for their two titles in the eight-round co-featured event.

Undefeated middleweight prospect Francis “Frank The Tank” Hogan (14-0, 13 KOs), of nearby Weymouth (MA), will provide chief support in an eight-round bout. Hogan, who was a 2020 USA Boxing Olympic Team alternate, will bring “Tank Time” to Quincy.

Also slated to fight on the undercard are undefeated Irish light heavyweights Tommy “The Governor” Hyde (5-0, 4 KOs) and Thomas “The Kid” O’Toole (7-0, 4 KOs) in a pair of six-round matches, as well as Scituate heavyweight Kevin Nagle (2-0, 2 KOs).

Card subject to change.

Tickets for “Veterans Stadium Showcase,” are on sale and available for purchase online at www.EventBrite.com.

Sponsorship opportunities are available by contacting Traietti at chris@granite-chin-promotions.com for details.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. ET with the amateur matches starting  at 6:30 p.m. ET, pro card commences at 8 pm. ET.

INFORMATION:  

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

Twitter: @Granite_Chin




SATURDAY: Luis Nery-Froilan Saludar Junior Featherweight Showdown to Stream LIVE and Exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+

(July 5, 2023) — Mexican former two-division world champion Luis “Pantera” Nery returns in a 10-round main event against Filipino former title challenger Froilan “The Sniper” Saludar this Saturday, July 8 at Recinto Ferial Metepec in Metepec, Mexico.

The 28-year-old Nery will look to continue his campaign towards another title run in the competitive junior featherweight division.

Promoted by Zanfer Promotions, Nery-Saludar and undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ starting at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Nery (34-1, 26 KOs) burst onto championship scene in October 2017 with a fourth-round TKO against then-unbeaten champion Shinsuke Yamanaka to capture the WBC bantamweight crown. Three years later, he defeated Aaron Alameda to win the WBC junior featherweight title via 12-round unanimous decision. Nery suffered his first defeat in a title unification bout versus WBA king Brandon Figueroa in May 2021. He is 3-0 with two knockouts since the Figueroa loss and is coming off a 11th-round knockout over former title challenger Azat Hovhannisyan in a Fight of the Year-level battle. Saludar (33-6-1, 23 KOs) is a 13-year pro who unsuccessfully challenged Sho Kimura for the WBO flyweight title in 2018. He has given stiff tests to former world champs Andrew Moloney and Daigo Higa. The 34-year-old is coming off a first-round TKO win over countryman Crison Omayao last October.

In other streaming action from Metepec, Mexico:

  • Junior welterweight standout Carlos Sanchez (24-1, 19 KOs) will take on Marcos Gonzalez (22-3, 11 KOs) in a 10-round clash. Both are coming off April wins, with Sanchez beating Alexander Duran via six-round technical decision and Gonzalez defeating Josue Veraza via 10-round unanimous decision.
     
  • In a 10-round junior middleweight fight, Jorge Garcia Perez (25-4, 21 KOs) will square off against Ricardo Bañuelos (18-9-1, 7 KOs). Both fought on the same card last month. Perez scored a seventh-round knockout win over Hector Andres Reyes, while Bañuelos lost to Mexican Olympian Misael Rodriguez via eight-round unanimous decision.
     
  • Rashib Martinez (20-2-1, 9 KOs) will face Ernesto Garcia Flores (10-2, 9 KOs) in an eight-round bantamweight tilt.
     
  • In a swing bout, flyweights Luis Rodriguez (8-3, 3 KOs) and Juan Carlos Barrientos (5-2, 3 KOs) will collide in a fight scheduled for four or six rounds. 

# # #About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 25.3 million subscribers. Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $9.99 a month (or $99.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices).  




RIDERS FIELD TO HOST ERROL SPENCE JR. VS. TERENCE CRAWFORD VIEWING PARTY!

NEW YORK, NY (July 4, 2023) – The Frisco RoughRiders and DiBella Entertainment are bringing the biggest fight of the year and a night of live boxing to the fight fans of Frisco, TX. On Saturday, July 29, Riders Field will host a viewing party for the long-awaited Errol Spence Jr. versus Terence Crawford undisputed welterweight championship.

Before Spence and Crawford get it on via the jumbotron, a night of live boxing will take place on the field beginning at 7:30 PM. In the main event, scheduled for 10 rounds, Fort Worth’s own Edward “Kid” Vazquez (14-1, 3 KOs), fresh off a big win on Showtime, will fight for the IBF Intercontinental featherweight championship versus hard-hitting Brayan “La Roca” De Gracia (29-2-1, 25 KOs), of Panama, who represents the most experienced opponent of Vazquez’s career.

Once the night of live action is complete, attention will turn to the biggest scoreboard in all of Minor League Baseball, where Spence and Crawford will battle from Las Vegas. All concessions will be open, making this the biggest and best watch party in town.

International Boxing Hall-of-Famer Lou DiBella is also an important figure in Minor League Baseball as the President and Managing General Partner of the Richmond Flying Squirrels, the AA-affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, and the CEO and Managing Owner of the Montgomery Biscuits, the AA-affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays.

“Spence-Crawford is the biggest fight in many years; the two top welterweights in the world, both undefeated and in their prime, will collide to determine who is the best of their era. I am thrilled to bring this tremendous fight to the fans in attendance at Frisco’s Riders Field via the closed-circuit telecast,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “As a special treat, DiBella Entertainment will also deliver a night of live world class boxing, featuring Fort Worth’s Edward Vazquez facing Panamanian KO artist Brayan De Gracia in the main event. Undefeated Armenian welterweight Aram Amirkhanyan and Dallas female boxing star Shurretta Metcalf will highlight the undercard. Boxing at the ballpark, both live and via closed-circuit, was once a longstanding tradition in the sport. On July 29, we will bring that back.”

“It will be peanuts, crackerjacks and fisticuffs on Saturday, July 29 at Riders Field,” said Chuck Greenberg, General Partner and CEO of the Frisco RoughRiders. “Spence vs. Crawford is the biggest boxing event in years and the RoughRiders are thrilled to host a special closed-circuit viewing of the fight for our loyal fans at Riders Field. In addition to the Spence-Crawford fight, DiBella Entertainment will present a live bout card to complement the action-packed evening. This is a truly special and unique event for us and we can’t wait to provide a great night of entertainment.”

Tickets, starting at $35 plus service fees, are on sale NOW and can be purchased through Tickets.com. VIP Ringside seating, including food and drink in the Founders Club presented by Baylor Scott & White Health, are $150. Riders Field is located at 7300 Rough Riders Trl, Frisco, TX 75034. Doors will open on the night of the event at 6:30pm CT, with the first bout scheduled for 7:30pm CT. The Spence-Crawford main event closed-circuit broadcast will be shown immediately following the conclusion of the live bouts.

Leading into the Vazquez-De Gracia main event, rising female talent Shurretta Metcalf (11-4-1, 2 KOs), from Dallas, TX, will fight in the co-featured attraction. Metcalf, once ranked the #1 USA super bantamweight as an amateur, is trained by Ozell Nelson, who worked with former undisputed middleweight world champion Jermain Taylor.

Also highlighting the undercard will be undefeated Armenian welterweight prospect Aram Amirkhanyan (14-0-1, 4 KOs). He is a former IBF International, WBO International, and WBA Continental champion. Prior to the pandemic, Amirkhanyan had been world ranked by three of the major sanctioning bodies and the combined record of his last five opponents was 61-3-1. He returned in July 2022 with an eight-round unanimous decision win.

Further details on this event will be announced shortly.




FULL CARD CONFIRMED FOR JOSH KELLY FIGHT NIGHT IN NEWCASTLE  

Josh Kelly faces off against Argentina’s Gabriel Corzo in the headline fight of a packed show, delivered in association with William Hill, and staged at the Vertu Motors Arena. 

Kelly, the world No2, knows victory over the unbeaten and highly rated Corzo will put him within touching distance of huge fights in the super welterweight division. 

The Sunderland fan tops a major night of action which also includes a British title fight, a heavyweight humdinger, a female star on the cusp of titles as well as dazzling prospects and local favourites. 

4×3 minutes Super Welterweight contest Tom Summerbell vs Eligio Palacios 4×3 minutes Super Lightweight contest Owen Rees vs Marvis Istrate  4×3 minutes Super Featherweight contest Kai Richmond vs Karl Sampson  4×3 minutes Super Middleweight contest Oliver Zaren vs Jay Byrne  6×3 minutes Super Welterweight contest Samuel Antwi vs Ruben Angulo  6×3 minutes Super Welterweight contest Troy Williamson vs Ramiro Blanco  8×2 minutes Flyweight contest Chloe Watson vs Belen Valdebenito  6×3 minutes Super Lightweight contest Ben Marksby vs Ricardo Fernandez 12×3 minutes vacant British Super Featherweight title Liam Dillon vs Qais Ashfaq 4×3 minutes Featherweight contest Codie Smith vs Francisco Rodriguez 8×3 minutes Heavyweight contest Steven Robinson vs Franklin Ignatius 12×3 minutes WBO International Super Welterweight title Josh Kelly vs Gabriel Corzo  Running order remains subject to change 



Tiger Johnson, Dante Benjamin and DeAndre Ware Pick up Home State wins in Toledo

NEW YORK (July 3, 2023) – Three Split-T Management fighters from the state of Ohio emerged victorious on Saturday night with wins in their home state at The Huntington Center in Toledo.

2020 United States Olympian Tiger Johnson remained undefeated with a eight-round unanimous decision over Jonathan Montrel in a junior welterweight bout.

In round three, the left eye of Montrel began to swell.

The eye continued to worsen as the doctor checked on it before round seven commenced. The right side of Montrel’s forehead became a bloody mess in round seven.

Johnson, 141.2 lbs of Cleveland, OH won by scores of 80-72 on all cards and is now 9-0. Montrel, 140.6 lbs of New Orleans is now 15-2.

Dante Benjamin Jr. remained undefeated by stopping Mirandy Zola in round one of their six-round light heavyweight bout.

In round one, Benjamin landed a big left hand that was followed by a right to the chin that put Zola on his back. Benjamin came forward and landed a big right that snapped Zola’s head back and the bout was stopped at 1:56.

Benjamin, 173.3 lbs of Cleveland is 7-0 with six knockouts. Zola, 173.9 lbs of Columbus, OH is 4-3..

DeAndre Ware won a six-round unanimous decision over DeCarlo Perez in a super middleweight bout.

Ware, 167.9 lbs of Toledo, OH won by scores of 59-55 twice and 58-56 and is now 16-4-2. Perez, 167.5 lbs of Atlantic City, NJ is 19-9-1.

Johnson and Benjamin are promoted by Top Rank.

The fights were streamed live on ESPN+.




Jared Anderson Goes Distance; Decisions Former Champion Charles Martin

Jared Anderson went the distance for the first time and won a 10-round unanimous decision over former IBF Heavyweight champion Charles Martin at The Huntington Center in Anderson’s hometown of Toledo, Ohio.

At the end of round three, Anderson dropped Martin by flinging a left from the southpaw stance that hit the top of Martin’s head. Anderson continued to pound away and rock Martin. In round five, Martin hurt Anderson with some hard left hands.

In round nine, the mouth of Martin began to bleed. Anderson was able to dominate the second half of the fight alternating from orthodox to southpaw, landing jabs and some solid punches to the jaw. Martin tried to make a last second stand as he landed a perfect left to the jaw that sent Anderson back, but time ran out.

Anderson landed 157 of 369 punches; Martin was 85 of 324.

Anderson, 243.4 lbs of Toledo, OH won by scores of 98-91 and 99-90 twice and is now 15-0. Martin, 259.5 lbs of St. Louis, MO is 29-4-1.

Anderson said, “It felt great. I had my team with me. I got my family with me. I got Toledo with me. They showed up and they’re in the building. They were with me the entire 10 rounds. I heard them all the way through. I’m grateful for my opponent. He took the fight on short notice. He came and performed really good. I think we put on a hell of a show for Toledo.

“I wanted to go the distance. It was my first time. I just wanted to make sure that I could go the distance and especially be able to withstand power the whole 10 rounds. He had power until the last round, and I was happy to get the rounds in.

“I think I took his best shots very well. I don’t think there was a time in the fight where I looked unsteady or where I couldn’t hold my own. Did feel like he got me with a good shot and stunned me? No. But do I feel like he got me with a good shot and made me aware? Yes, so I had to readjust and get back to the game plan.”

Martin said, “I took the fight on 11 days’ notice. I did the best I could. He’s a real champion. He’ll be making his way to the top soon. I’m proud of him.

“He’s really good. He’s a crafty boxer. Usually, when I catch somebody and hurt them, I can finish them. If they don’t fall, usually I can follow up and put them away. But he is like a little middleweight. He is crafty. He was able to get out even when he was rocked. He was able to maneuver and get out the way. He’s going to be a champion.

Makhmudov Stops Akepejiori in 2

In a battle of heavyweight sluggers, Arslenbek Makhmudov stopped Raphael Akepejiori in round two of their 10-round bout.

In round one, Makhmudov came out fast and dropped Akepejiori with a perfect right uppercut. At the end of the round, Makhmudov dropped Akepejiori again with a left hook while Akepejiori’s right hand was caught in the ropes. In round two, Makhmudov landed several devastating uppercuts that wobbled Akepejiori and then sent up down with a hard right. Akepejiori got to his feet, but the fight was waved of at 1:43.

Makhmudov, 263.4 lbs of Montreal, CAN is now 17-0 with 16 knockouts. Akepejiori, 255.5 lbs of Lagos, NIG is 15-1.

Abdullah Mason stopped Alex de Oliveira in round two of their six-round lightweight bout.

In round two, Mason landed three fast and hard left hands that put de Oliveira down and the fight was stopped at 2:18.

Mason, 135.2 lbs of Cleveland is 9-0 with eight knockouts. de Oliveira, 135.8 lbs of Sao Paulo, BRA is now 20-5.

Mason said, “It was amazing. I felt amazing. I felt great in this camp. Right now, there is no cap on my ceiling. I’m just focused, and I’m going hard.”

2020 United State Olympian Tiger Johnson remained undefeated with a eight-round unanimous decision over Jonathan Montrel in a junior welterweight bout.

In round three, the left eye of Montrel began to swell.

The eye continued to worsen as the doctor checked on it before round seven commenced. The right side of Montrel’s forehead became a bloody mess in round seven.

Johnson, 141.2 lbs of Cleveland, OH won by scores of 80-72 on all cards and is now 9-0. Montrel, 140.6 lbs of New Orleans is now 15-2.

Dante Benjamin Jr. remained undefeated by stopping Mirandy Zola in round one of their six-round light heavyweight bout.

In round one, Benjamin landed a big left hand that was followed by a right to the chin that put Zola on his back. Benjamin came forward and landed a big right that snapped Zola’s head back and the bout was stopped at 1:56.

Benjamin, 173.3 lbs of Cleveland is 7-0 with six knockouts. Zola, 173.9 lbs of Columbus, OH is 4-3.

DeAndre Ware won a six-round unanimous decision over DeCarlo Perez in a super middleweight bout.

Ware, 167.9 lbs of Toledo, OH won by scores of 59-55 twice and 58-56 and is now 16-4-2. Perez, 167.5 lbs of Atlantic City, NJ is 19-9-1,

Rance Ward scored a six-round majority decision over previously undefeated Husan Al Mashhadi in a junior middleweight bout.

Ward, 153.6 lbs of Houma, LA won by scores of 59-55, 58-56 and 57-57 and is now 8-5-1. Al Mashhadi, 151.2 lbs od Dearborn Heights, MI is 6-1.

Tyler McCreary came back after a two-year layoff with a six-round unanimous decision over Deivi Julio in a junior lightweight bout.

In round two, Julio was docked a point for holding.

McCreary, 131 lbs of Toledo, OH won by scores of 59-54 and 57-56 twice and is now 18-2-1. Julio, 130.9 lbs of Monteria, COL is 26-14.

Nicklaus Flaz upset previously undefeated Jahi Tucker via eight-round majority decision in a junior middleweight bout,

Flaz was cut on his right eyebrow in the final round.

Flaz, 151.2 lbs of Bayamon, PR won by scores of 78-74, 77-75 and 76-76 and is now 11-2. Tucker, 151.8 lbs of Deer Park, NY is 10-1.