May 18: Tyson Fury-Oleksandr Usyk UNDISPUTED Heavyweight Title Showdown to Stream LIVE on Top Rank on ESPN+ PPV

(May 2, 2024) — The undisputed heavyweight showdown between WBC/lineal champion Tyson Fury and WBO/IBF/WBA ruler Oleksandr Usyk — Saturday, May 18, at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — will stream LIVE on Top Rank on ESPN+ PPV starting at 12 p.m. ET/9 a.m. PT.

Fury-Usyk is the most significant heavyweight battle of the millennium, as the winner will become the division’s first undisputed champion since Lennox Lewis claimed the throne in 1999.

Fury (34-0-1, 24 KOs) returns following last October’s closer-than-expected decision over former UFC king Francis Ngannou in Riyadh. He has held the lineal title since upsetting Wladimir Klitschko via unanimous decision in November 2015. Usyk (21-0, 14 KOs), an Olympic gold medalist from Ukraine, hopes to become the second man, following Evander Holyfield, to achieve undisputed status at both cruiserweight and heavyweight.

The Top Rank on ESPN+ PPV is also scheduled to feature:

  • Lineal/Ring Magazine cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia (24-0, 19 KOs) battling Mairis Briedis (28-2, 20 KOs) in a rematch for the vacant IBF world title.
     
  • Joe Cordina (17-0, 9 KOs) defending his IBF junior lightweight world title against Belfast native Anthony Cacace (21-1, 7 KO).
     
  • Former light heavyweight king Sergey Kovalev (35-4-1, 29 KOs) aiming for his second win as a cruiserweight in a 10-rounder against the unbeaten Robin Sirwan Safar (16-0, 12 KOs).
     
  • Unbeaten heavyweights Frank Sanchez (24-0, 17 KOs) and Agit Kabayel (24-0, 16 KOs) locking horns in a 12-round WBC title eliminator.
     
  • British heavyweight sensation Moses Itauma (8-0, 6 KOs) stepping up versus Ilja Mezencev (25-3, 21 KOs).
     
  • Unbeaten British lightweight Mark Chamberlain (15-0, 11 KOs) fighting the big-punching Joshua Oluwaseun Wahab (23-1,16 KOs).



OSCAR DE LA HOYA AND GOLDEN BOY PROMOTIONS TO RETURN TO TURNING STONE FOR INTERNATIONAL BOXING HALL OF FAME WEEKEND

Oneida Indian Nation Homelands (May 2, 2024) –Turning Stone Resort Casino announced today Oscar De La Hoya and his Golden Boy Promotions will return to Upstate New York during Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Weekend to host an epic World Championship fight on Friday, June 7. The card is headlined by a 12-round battle between undefeated Oscar Collazo (9-0, 7 KOs) and Gerardo Zapata (14-1-1), as they compete for the WBO Minimumweight World Title. The fight is co-promoted with Miguel Cotto Promotions and will be broadcast around the world on DAZN.

Tickets are on sale now. Turning Stone will also offer ticket holders a unique boxing fan experience the night of the fight. For $75 (plus the purchase of a ticket), guests will receive exclusive access to the Boxing Hall of Fame Lounge, where Hall of Fame inductees will be socializing on June 7 at various times between 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased from Ticketmaster HERE.

Boxing’s biggest event of the year, Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Weekend, will be held from June 6 – 9, 2024, with non-stop events hosted in both Madison and Oneida Counties. The iconic weekend attracts thousands of die-hard boxing fans, Hall of Famers, boxing legends and media to Upstate New York every year.

“Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Weekend brings thousands of boxing fans and boxing legends to Central New York every June, and this year we will once again be the center of the boxing universe,” said Ray Halbritter, Oneida Indian Nation Representative and Turning Stone Enterprises CEO. “Between the boxing festivities as part of International Boxing Hall of Fame Weekend and Oscar De La Hoya joining us for what will be an amazing night of boxing, our guests are guaranteed to have an unforgettable weekend.”

“With events spanning two counties, an incredible induction class, and boxing legends like Oscar De La Hoya traveling to Central New York for the occasion, this year’s Hall of Fame Induction Weekend is one fans will not want to miss,” said Edward Brophy, Boxing Hall of Fame Executive Director. “It is an honor to continue our partnership with the Oneida Indian Nation to host some of our events at Turning Stone.”

“Coming off a huge TKO in January, Collazo is hungry for more and will bring his all-action style to a new East Coast audience on June 7,” said Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions Oscar De La Hoya. “But he will be battling a really tough opponent whose only loss was by a controversial DQ. This is going to be an absolute war that is perfect for Hall of Fame weekend.”

Induction Weekend in Central New York gives boxing fans from around the country an opportunity to meet and mingle with the biggest names in boxing. The Class of 2024 Hall of Fame inductees include:

?     Ricky Hatton

?     Michael Moorer

?     Ivan Calderon

?     Diego Corrales

?     Jane Couch

?     Ana Maria Torres

Boxing Hall of Fame Weekend: Schedule of Events at Turning Stone

The four-day weekend of non-stop boxing action and events feature several events hosted at Turning Stone Resort Casino.

Kickoff Event: Celebratory event to kick off Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Weekend and welcome boxing fans and Hall of Famers to Central New York.

Friday, June 7: World Title Fight: Presented in partnership with Golden Boy Promotions and broadcast around the world on DAZNthe card features Oscar Collazo and Gerardo Zapata as they compete for the WBO Minimumweight World title. Additional details about the June 7th card will be released soon.

The undefeated Oscar Collazo said, “I feel honored to fight in New York where the boxing world has its eye and in a great week for Puerto Ricans, I will be in anticipation of the induction of Diego Corlares, Ricky Hatton and especially Ivan Calderon. It is an honor and I will continue working to one day be able to be together with great immortals like Miguel Cotto, Felix Trinidad and the great Muhammed Ali. I feel very good but we will make our third defense against Zapata, a good fighter who will bring out the best in me. Very well prepared as usual, focused on proving once again that we are the best in my category. We hope you meet at the Turning Stone, Verona. My fans from upstate New York and all my New York City come together for a great night.”

The rugged Gerardo Zapata said, “I am very happy and excited with New opportunity to fight for a World Championship. I haven’t stopped training after the fight that was scheduled to face WBO 108lbs Champion ‘Bomba’ González. Making the weight of 105lbs is not a threat for me. I am always ready to perform. I could fight any style and make the adjustments. There will be a war on June 7 in New York.”

To request media credentials for the June 7 fight at Turning Stone, professional media are required to submit a credential request online at TurningStone.com/media-credentials.

Media credential requests for all other events during Induction Weekend should be requested directly with the Boxing Hall of Fame by calling 315.697.7095.

Saturday, June 8: The Banquet of Champions: The annual Banquet of Champions will be held in the Turning Stone Event Center, honoring some of the most notable boxing legends and the most memorable moments in the history of the sport.

Sunday, June 9: Annual Parade & Induction Ceremony: Boxing’s biggest weekend concludes with the Boxing Hall of Fame’s annual parade in Canastota and the Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Turning Stone Resort Casino.




Original Program “Redemption Road: The Path Back to Glory” ahead of Top Rank Boxing on ESPN: Lomachenko vs. Kambosos

Leading up to the May 11th showdown for the vacant IBF Lightweight World Title, Lomachenko vs. Kambosos at RAC Arena in Perth, Western Australia, ESPN will air the original program: Redemption Road: The Path Back to Glory.

Fight fans are in for a treat with a 30-minute all-access preview prior to the highly anticipated championship battle between Ukrainian future Hall of Famer Vasiliy Lomachenko and Australian warrior George Kambosos Jr. The program offers an exclusive look inside the training camps of both fighters, giving fans a glimpse into the intense preparation leading up to this ‘Down Under’ world title showdown. Lomachenko (17-3, 11 KOs) the former pound-for-pound king, three-division world champion, and two-time Olympic gold medalist, embarks on a journey to regain the lightweight crown against Kambosos (21-2, 10 KOs), a former unified world champion from Sydney who will have the home country advantage.

The program will also be available for replay on-demand in the ESPN App, on ESPN.com and on ESPN+.

Redemption Road: The Path Back to Glory (All Times ET)

Date Time (ET) Network
Sun May 5 8:00 p.m.  ESPN2
Mon May 6 12:00 a.m.
Tue May 7 12:00 a.m.
3:00 a.m.  ESPNEWS
Wed May 8 12:00 a.m.
7:30 a.m.
9:00 p.m.
Fri May 10 12:00 a.m.
7:30 p.m.
9:30 p.m. ESPN2

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FURY FACES KORTE ON MCCASKILL VS PRICE CARD IN CARDIFF

CARDIFF, WALES (May 2, 2024) – Former World Title challenger Hughie Fury faces Patrick Korte in a heavyweight clash on the undercard of Lauren Price MBE’s WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Title fight with Jessica McCaskill on Saturday, May 11th at the Utilita Arena Cardiff, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland, BBC Wales in Wales and Peacock in the USA.

Fury (27-3, 15 KOs) is looking to get his promising career back on track following an extended period out the ring. The 29-year-old returned to action last month, scoring a points win over Kostiantyn Dovbyshchenko. Having previously mixed at world level, Fury will be aiming to get back into title contention with a victory over Germany’s ‘Big Patrick’ Korte (21-3-1, 18 KOs) in the Welsh capital.

Fans can look forward to another exciting contest in Cardiff with undefeated light heavyweight Lewis Edmondson set for action against British rival Joel McIntyre.

Edmondson (8-0, 3 KOs) claimed a points win over Dmytro Fedas last time out at the Bournemouth International Centre in December and will look to extend his unbeaten run as he targets a fight with fast rising star Ben Whittaker.

McIntrye (20-8, 5 KOs) a former two-time English champion who has fought many of the top names in the domestic scene will provide an acid test for Edmondson and prove whether ‘The Saint’ is ready to step up in levels.

They join a stacked undercard that also features undefeated featherweight Rhys Edwards (15-0, 4 KOs) facing former British champion and WBA #1 contender Thomas Patrick Ward (34-1-1, 5 KOs) for the WBA Intercontinental Title.

Newport super middleweight Kyran Jones (9-0, 1 KO) taking on fellow unbeaten Welshman Lewis Howell (3-0) and Cardiff super featherweight Kane Shepherd (4-0, 1 KO) versus Birmingham’s Ishmael Ellis (14-8).

Plus undefeated English Super Middleweight Champion Mark Jeffers (17-0, 4 KOs) and Swansea heavyweight hope Moses Jolly (8-0, 6 KOs), who continues his quest to become Wales’ first world heavyweight champion.

History maker Price, the first Welsh boxer to win Olympic gold, has the chance to write her name in the record books again by becoming the country’s first female world champion when she attempts to dethrone current welterweight ruler McCaskill and capture the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Titles.

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Everlast, Integritas Property Group and HELL Energy.

Tickets are on sale now and available via BOXXER.com




Star Boxing’s super welterweight contender Wendy Toussaint will travel to the Emperors Palace in Kempton Park, South Africa to take on Shervantaigh Koopman

WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK (May 1, 2024) Wendy Toussaint of Huntington, Long Island is 15-2, 7 KO and will be hoping to pick up a huge international victory that that will catapult him into the world rankings. Toussaint will travel to the Emperors Palace in Kempton Park, South Africa to take on undefeated Shervantaigh Koopman for the IBO Intercontinental Title.

Toussaint, a 31-year-old Haitian born American is well regarded in NY boxing. He has sparred with top NY talent and was the lead sparring partner for former World Champion Joe Smith Jr. In his last outing Toussaint won the WBA Continental USA title by knocking out Jermone Jones Jr. in three rounds (October 28, 2023) at The Paramount in Huntington, New York.

Toussaint was perhaps most impressive in his controversial technical split decision loss to hometown favorite IBF/USBA Champ Ardreal Holmes Jr.  Toussaint appeared to be winning the match and breaking down Holmes, when it went to the scorecards due to an accidental head butt.   The split decision was heavily booed by even the local Detroit partisan crowd.

Toussaint hits the road again for this major career defining fight.  Koopman who will be fighting in front of his hometown fans is 13-0, 9 KO and is the South African super welterweight champion.

“”Facing a dangerous opponent is just another step on my journey. I thrive on challenges, and this opportunity only fuels my excitement. In the ring, victory isn’t a possibility – it’s a promise. My name embodies success and on June 15th, I’ll prove it once again,” said Toussaint.

Star Boxing President Joe DeGuardia said: “I’m pleased we were able to provide Wendy (Toussaint) with this fight as it is exactly what he was seeking. Wendy has shown that he can compete with anyone and with a win on June 15th I expect he will get a major opportunity and a significant world rating. Wendy will impress in South Africa, which has been a hot-spot for boxing for many years and I am grateful that Rodney (Berman), my friend for many years, and I were able to smoothly and swiftly make this fight possible.

The Koopman-Toussaint bout will be the co-main event that will feature South Africa’s rising star, Roarke Knapp (17-1-1, 12 KO) battling Jorge Garcia Perez of Mexico (29-4, 24 KO) for the IBO Super Welterweight World Title.

The show will be televised live on SuperSport, the premium television network in South Africa, and streamed live in the United States on StarBoxing.tv (show starts 7pm South African time; 1pm ET/NY)




WHITTAKER FACES ‘AFRICAN KING’ ARENYEKA FOR WBA GOLD TITLE ON JUNE 15TH AT SELHURST PARK

LONDON, UK (May 1, 2024) – Ben Whittaker will look to silence press conference crasher Ezra Arenyeka when the unbeaten fighters clash for the WBA Gold Light Heavyweight Title as part of a blockbuster night of boxing on Saturday, June 15th at South London’s historic Selhurst Park stadium, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

TICKETS ON GENERAL SALE TOMORROW AT 10AM

Known as the ‘African King’, Arenyeka, who is 12-0 as a professional with 10 knockout wins, had to be held back by security after making a surprise appearance at a press conference ahead of Whittaker’s fight with Leon Willings last month.

The 28-year-old from Nigeria stormed the stage to demand a fight with the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Silver medallist and has since vowed to punish Whittaker for what he perceives to be disrespectful behaviour towards his opponents in the ring.

Whittaker has become a viral sensation as a result of his flamboyant showboating, amassing a huge following online and wowing audiences across the country with his fan friendly performances.

Whittaker recently returned from the USA where he has already built a huge fan base. The 28-year-old from the West Midlands can now continue his journey to superstardom as he takes on undefeated rival Arenyeka for the WBA Gold strap.

Whittaker and Arenyeka will come face-to-face today at 1pm at the official launch press conference for BOXXER’s summer stadium show at Selhurst Park.

WATCH LIVE LAUNCH PRESS CONFERENCE STREAM ON SKY SPORTS BOXING’S YOUTUBE CHANNEL

Fans attending the huge GAME ON! show will be part of history as boxing returns to Selhurst Park in its centenary year.

The epic Chris Billam-Smith vs Richard Riakporhe clash tops a huge bill in South London and kick-offs a huge summer of world-class sport with a blockbuster night of world championship boxing and celebrations.

A stacked undercard features Brixton’s Isaac Chamberlain challenging the fierce punching Pole Michal Cieslak for the European Cruiserweight crown.

A percentage of every ticket sold will be donated to the Palace For Life Foundation, the official charity of Crystal Palace F.C, which has been working with the community for over 25 years, helping young people grow through the power of sport, inspiring them to find a better path in life and to lead a healthier life.

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Integritas Property Group and HELL Energy.

Tickets for the huge summer stadium event at Selhurst Park go on sale tomorrow at 10am.




Bryce Mills Returns to the Ring June 7 During 2024 International Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Weekend

SYRACUSE, NY (May 1, 2024) – Up and coming super lightweight prospect, Bryce Mills (15-1, 5 KOs), from Syracuse, NY, makes his way back to the ring on Friday, June 7, 2024, during the International Boxing Hall of Fame Induction weekend at the Turning Stone Resort & Casino in Verona, NY. Mills will square off against Jose Marruffo (14-13-2, 2 KOs)) from Sonora, Mexico, in a scheduled 6-round bout.

The event is being promoted by Golden Boy Promotions, promising an unforgettable evening of non-stop action. All the live coverage will broadcast on DAZN.

Mills, a popular figure in his hometown of nearby Syracuse, NY, will have a massive number of fans attending his fight. For Mills, fighting in his backyard once again is a tremendous blessing for his career.

“I’m beyond excited to step back into the ring in front of all my family and friends,” Mills said. “There’s nothing quite like fighting at home, and I can’t wait to put forth a great performance. To be fighting during the International Boxing Hall of Fame Induction weekend is something I will cherish for the rest of my life. I know there will be many Hall of Famer’s in attendance watching this fight, so I’m working hard in camp to be at my best. I’m grateful for the opportunity.”

Amer Abdallah, Mills’ advisor, believes that Mills is destined for greatness. As he is rapidly rising up the super lightweight rankings, Abdallah feels Mills is in a great position.

“Bryce Mills has all the makings of a future household name not only on the east coast, but in boxing period,” Abdallah stated. “He’s talented, dedicated, and hungry for success. With each fight, he’s getting better, and I’m happy with his progression.”

Mills is focused on the task at hand but is also eager to give his fans a night to remember. “I’m fully focused on the fight ahead, and I’m not looking past Marruffo,” Mills emphasized. “But I’m also looking forward to putting on a great show for all the fans who come out to support me. This is an opportunity to showcase my skills and entertain the crowd, and I plan to make the most of it.”

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




Top Rank Presents Undisputed Jr. Featherweight Naoya Inoue vs. Luis Nery Championship: Monday, May 6 at 4 a.m. ET / 1 a.m. PT

(May 1, 2024) Top Rank Boxing on ESPN presented by AutoZone: Inoue vs. Nery and three additional world title fights will be presented live Monday, May 6, at a special early start time of 4 a.m. ET/ 1 a.m. PT exclusively on ESPN+. The event takes place at Tokyo Dome in Tokyo, Japan and kicks off Top Rank’s MAYhem Tour featuring 12 world title fights spanning four continents with 21 world champion belts up for grabs.

In the main event, undisputed junior featherweight world champion Naoya “The Monster” Inoue will defend all the belts against Mexican puncher Luis “Pantera” Nery.

Inoue (26-0, 23 KOs) won his first world title in April 2014 and has been flawless ever since. He sports an astounding 21-0 record in world title fights, including 19 knockouts. He was named 2023 Fighter of the Year by ESPN.com and Ring Magazine and makes his 2024 debut intent on solidifying his stranglehold over the division.

Nery (35-1, 27 KOs) is a former two weight world champion who won the WBC title at both bantamweight and junior featherweight. Since his loss to Brandon Figueroa in 2021, he has won four straight fights, including a sensational 11th-round knockout over Azat Hovhannisyan in one of last year’s most intense matches.

In the co-feature, Australia’s WBO bantamweight world champion, Jason “Mayhem” Moloney (27-2, 19 KOs) will defend his belt against rising knockout artist and former kickboxing world champion Yoshiki Takei (8-0, 8 KOs).

The world title quadruple-header also features WBA bantamweight world champion Takuma Inoue (19-1, 5 KOs), younger brother of Naoya, who defends his title against former world title challenger Sho Ishida (34-3, 17 KOs).And, in a flyweight world title tilt, newly minted WBA world champion Seigo Yuri Akui (19-2-1, 11 KOs) battles Taku Kuwahara (13-1, 8 KOs) in a rematch of their 2021 encounter, which Akui won by 10th-round TKO.

Calling the action will be ESPN’s Joe Tessitore and Hall of Famer, Timothy Bradley, Jr.

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Inoue vs. Nery (All Times ET)

Date Time Event Fights Title Platform
Mon., May 6 4:00 a.m.  Main Naoya Inoue (C) vs. Luis Nery IBF, WBA, WBC, WBO Jr. Featherweight     ESPN+
Co-Feature Jason Moloney (C) vs. Yoshiki Takei WBO Bantamweight 
Undercard Takuma Inoue (C) vs. Sho Ishida WBA Bantamweight
Undercard Seigo Yuri Akui (C) vs. Taku Kuwahara WBA Flyweight



HAGHIGHAT-JOO WBA WORLD CHAMPION, FASTEST CANADIAN IN HISTORY TO WIN WORLD TITLE

TORONTO — On Saturday night, Etobicoke’s Sara Haghighat-Joo became the fastest Canadian in history to win a World Title with her unanimous decision victory for the WBA Light Flyweight World Championship.

In just her fourth professional fight and promoted by United Boxing Promotions, Ontario’s premier boxing company, Haghighat-Joo defeated reigning WBA World Champion Lupita Bautista via unanimous decision (99-91, 98-92, 96-94) over 10 rounds at the Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto.

“It’s very cool to make some history, but I want to make another statement right away — I want those other three belts, I want to unify,” said a confident Haghighat-Joo following her WBA World Title victory. “I hope that my win shows those that look up to me that with persistence and consistent effort, you can get where you want to be.”

Haghighat-Joo dominated at range and enjoyed the better of most close exchanges throughout the night with Bautista (23-12-2, 6 KO), a now former three-time World Champion who certainly came to Canada with every intention of defending her title.

“At times, I got into wars with her and that was my ego,” admitted Haghighat-Joo, who cruised when on the outside with her jab established. “When I got back to the jab (and) used my angles, it worked — we knew she would come forward, so our plan was to take a half-step back, turn, and basically have a guaranteed land.”

Training out of Etobicoke’s West End Athletic Club, Haghighat-Joo was clear in her immediate goals now that she has reached the summit of world boxing.

“Unification, that’s it, let’s go,” she said following her WBA championship win. “I like to go for it, (and) I can box but I love to fight — I want to constantly make statements, so there is more to come!”

FIGHT NOTES

Haghighat-Joo became the fastest Canadian to ever win a World Title, in just her fourth professional fight…It was a successful evening for trainer Stevie Bailey and the West End Athletic Club, as Josh ‘The Boss’ Wagner also dominated Geronimo Vazquez in the Co-Feature to win the IBF International Welterweight belt…The contest was referee Mark Simmons’s first World Title assignment, and he was kept busy throughout the 10 rounds…Bautista previously held a record of 4-1 in World Title fights, the only defeat a split decision to Evelin Bermudez in Argentina.




Undefeated Brooklyn Heavyweight Prospect Pryce Taylor looking forward to fighting in Atlantic City on May 11th

NEW YORK CITY (April 30, 2024) – Undefeated Brooklyn heavyweight prospect Pryce Taylor (3-0, 2 KOs) is looking forward to fighting May11th at the Tropicana Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

The 6’ 4”, 27-year-old Taylor is matched against Lawrence King, Jr. (2-1, 1 KO), of Rochester (NY), in a four-round bout on a card presented by Boxing Insider Promotions (BIP).

“Atlantic City loves a strong heavyweight,” BIP promoter Larry Goldberg said. “Pryce Taylor is a future star in the heavyweight division. Boxing Insider Promotions is excited to work with Pryce a second time and to feature him May 11 at Tropicana Atlantic City.”

Taylor has family roots in New Jersey, and he’s confident in having a lot of support fighting in Atlantic City.

“My dad was born in Cape May, which is only an hour away from Atlantic City, and I have relatives all over that area,” Taylor explained. “My grandmother had 13 kids and I have a lot of aunts, uncles and cousins coming to my fight.”

In his most recent fight, Taylor went the four-round distance for the first time as a pro, albeit a “shutout” performance, winning each round on all three judges’ scorecards this past March 7th versus Antonio Torres (4-1).

“I’m learning all the time and in my last fight I learned that it’s hard to stop guys who really don’t want to fight,” Taylor noted. “When you hit as hard as I do, opponents start covering up as soon as they get hit. As long as the outcome in the end is a win, my dream of becoming heavyweight champion of the world remains alive.”

A decorated U.S. amateur boxer, highlighted by his two New York Golden Gloves Championship titles, Taylor was also a four-time runner-up in USA National Championships, including one to super heavyweight Joshua Edwards, who has qualified to represent Team USA in the 2024 Olympics in Paris.

Taylor has only been working with his manager, NYC-based lawyer Keith Sullivan, for five months. Sullivan, who is a former Deputy Commissioner for the New York State Athletic Commission, has scheduled him for five pro fights during that relatively short period, which is an exceptionally impressive pace in today’s modern era. One fight was canceled due to the opponent failing an eye exam at the weigh-in and Sullivan spent hours working the phone trying to secure a last-minute replacement to no avail.

Sullivan and Pryce adopt the old-school mentality that a fighter needs ring experience and to be kept active if they are going to be a world champion. “I always tell my fighters to exclusively focus on the fight in front of them, and just know that I am working on the two behind that,” Sullivan explained. “Pyrce is developing impressively and I’m making sure he is pushed at the right pace, but not to his detriment. He has world-title power and size, and I am putting him in position for the right opportunities.”

Last year, Taylor had seven wins fighting for New York in the Team Combat League (TCL), which is a one-round, team format competition. Technically-speaking, the wins are not part of his professional boxing record, but Pryce has benefited from that experience, and he is competing again this season for NYC Attitude.

Taylor played basketball for one season at Corning Community College in upstate New York, and now is gradually making a name for himself in pro boxing circles.




MOST VALUABLE PROMOTIONS CONFIRMS JAKE PAUL VS. MIKE TYSON HAS BEEN SANCTIONED AS A PROFESSIONAL FIGHT, STREAMING LIVE EXCLUSIVELY ON NETFLIX ON SATURDAY, JULY 20 

Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) and Holden Boxing today confirmed that the heavyweight boxing mega-event between The Problem Child, Jake “El Gallo de Dorado” Paul (9-1, 6 KOs) vs. the Baddest Man on the Planet, Mike Tyson (50-6, 44 KOs) will officially be a sanctioned, professional fight by Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations (TDLR). The heavyweight matchup will be contested over 8, 2-minute rounds with 14oz. gloves. In the co-main event, undisputed super lightweight world champion Katie Taylor (23-1, 6 KOs), will step back in the ring for the most anticipated rematch in women’s boxing history against boxing trailblazer and unified featherweight champion Amanda “The Real Deal” Serrano (46-2-1, 30 KOs). The event will stream live globally, exclusively on Netflix on Saturday, July 20, 2024 from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, home of the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys.

Tickets for Paul vs. Tyson and Taylor vs Serrano 2 will go on sale May 16 at 12pm ET; To sign-up for access to tickets in advance of the on-sale, click here.

“Mike Tyson and Jake Paul signed on to fight each other with the desire to do so in a sanctioned professional fight that would have a definitive outcome,” said Most Valuable Promotions co-founder Nakisa Bidarian. “Over the past six weeks MVP has worked with its partners to satisfy the requirements of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations (TDLR) to sanction Paul Vs Tyson and we are grateful that we have gotten to this point. MVP has championed fighter choice since its inception, including advocating for women’s boxing to be contested with 2 or 3 minute rounds based on the particular fight matchup. Paul vs Tyson and Taylor vs Serrano 2 will both be contested with 2 minute rounds and each mega-fight will have its winner. Thank you to the TDLR and Holden Boxing for their efforts throughout this process to date and we look forward to working closely with them as we approach fight night.” 

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. Since inception MVP has consistently produced the biggest combat sports pay-per-view events. One year into its inception, MVP was nominated as one of the prestigious Sports Breakthroughs of the Year in 2022 by Sports Business Journal. The company 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 is the 8th most bought pay-per-view event in history.

About Netflix

Netflix is one of the world’s leading entertainment services, with 270 million paid memberships in over 190 countries enjoying TV series, films and games across a wide variety of genres and languages. Members can play, pause and resume watching as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, and can change their plans at any time.

About AT&T Stadium

AT&T Stadium is the largest, most technologically advanced entertainment venue in the world. Designed by HKS and built by Manhattan Construction, the $1.2 billion stadium features two monumental arches, the world’s largest HDTV video board cluster, an expansive retractable roof and the largest retractable end zone doors in the world. Features of the stadium include seating for 80,000 and expandability for up to 100,000, over 300 luxury suites, club seating on multiple levels and the Dallas Cowboys Pro Shop, open to the public year-round. Outside the stadium, the Miller Lite® House is a branded destination that boasts a 70-yard Cowboys turf field featuring field games, four video boards and over 60 television screens, two fantasy football screen walls and over 87,000 outdoor square-footage for event day experiences. The space also features two beer gardens and a walk-in beer cooler. The stadium is also home to a world-class collection of contemporary art, made up of over 92 works of art by 62 established and emerging artists displayed on the walls and in the grand public spaces of the venue. In addition to being the home of the Dallas Cowboys since opening in 2009, the stadium has hosted Super Bowl XLV, the 2010 NBA All Star Game, the annual Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic, the 2014 NCAA Men’s Final Four, the 2015 inaugural College Football Playoff Championship Game, the 2015 50th Anniversary Academy of Country Music Awards show and WrestleMania 32 & 38. The venue has also played host to high school and college football, concerts, championship fights, international soccer matches and other special events. For more information, go to attstadium.com.




THURSDAY: Erik Bazinyan-Shakeel Phinn Super Middleweight Battle to Stream LIVE & Exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+

(April 29, 2024) — Undefeated super middleweight contender Erik Bazinyan returns in the 10-round main event against Shakeel Phinn this Thursday, May 2 at Casino de Montréal in Montreal, Canada. Bazinynan, ranked in the top 10 by all four major sanctioning organizations, hopes to put himself in line for an eventual world title opportunity. 
 
In the eight-round lightweight co-feature, unbeaten Canadian prospect Avery Martin Duval takes on Argentina’s Ezequiel Palaversic.
 
Promoted by Eye of The Tiger, Bazinyan-Phinn, Duval-Palaversic, and undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ starting at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.
 
Bazinyan (32-0, 23 KOs) has spent the majority of his 10-year career competing in Canada after moving from Armenia when he was 16. He debuted in the U.S. in May 2019 with a points triumph over Alan Campa and knocked out Saul Roman in three that December. Last year, he scored decision wins against Alantez Fox in February and Jose de Jesus Macias in June before dispatching Ronald Ellis in six in October. Bazinyan initiated his 2024 campaign with a third-round stoppage against Billi Godoy in January. Phinn (26-3-1, 17 KOs) looks to extend his winning streak to six and returns after stopping Rafael Sosa Pintos in one round last October. The only blemishes on his record have come against unbeaten fighters. 
 
Duval (10-0-1, 6 KOs), a 22-year-old prospect who turned pro in June 2019, went 4-0 with three knockouts before being held to a split draw against Esteban Hernandez Arroyo in December 2020. He avenged the draw by winning their rematch via four-round decision the following August. Duval has not fought since he stopped Andres Sanchez Ramirez via third-round TKO last June. Palaversic (8-2-1, 4 KOs) looks to bounce back from a split draw against Alexander Gustavo Dominguez in December. 
 
In other streaming action from Montreal:
 
Thomas Chabot (9-0, 7 KOs) vs. Alfredo Espino (6-1-1, 2 KOs), 8 Rounds, Junior Lightweights
 
Jhon Orobio (7-0, 7 KOs) vs. Alexis Gabriel Camejo (8-2-2, 1 KO), 6 Rounds, Lightweights
 
Alexandre Gaumont (9-0, 6 KOs) vs. Abdallah Luanja (17-11-2, 12 KOs), 6 Rounds, Middleweights 
 
Moreno Fendero (4-0, 3 KOs) vs. Nicolas Palacios (13-10-2, 2 KOs), 6 Rounds, Middleweights




Dainier Pero Continues Undefeated Streak with Impressive First Round Knockout on DAZN

LAS VEGAS, NV (April 29, 2024) – Heavyweight rising star Dainier “The Fear” Pero (7-0, 5 KOs) showcased his dominance in the ring once again, securing a spectacular first-round knockout victory over Jose Mario Tamez (4-4, 1 KO) of Monterey, MX. With this win, Pero who is promoted by Amaury Piedra’s BoxLab Promotions, maintains his undefeated record, further solidifying his status as one of the most promising talents in the heavyweight division. The Most Valuable Prospects aired the fight live on DAZN this past Friday from the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, FL. 

In a display of precision and ferocity, Pero unleashed his trademark straight left to the head followed by a devastating right hook to the body, inflicting punishing blows on Tamez from the opening bell. Tamez showed a lot of heart but struggled to withstand the onslaught and the referee intervened, stopping the fight in round one to prevent further damage. Pero threw some really hard accurate punches, but it was a straight left to the mid-section that ended the fight.

Reflecting on his victory, Pero expressed his eagerness to face the top contenders in the heavyweight division, stating, “I had a great training camp and I’m ready to take on all the top prospects in the heavyweight division. Each fight is an opportunity for me to prove myself and continue my journey towards the top.”

“Dainier Pero is undoubtedly the best young heavyweight in boxing today,” said Bob Santos, who trains Pero in Las Vegas. “For a big man, his footwork is incredible. Not only does he have great feet, this skillset and power is off the charts. With each fight, he continues to prove why he’s considered one of the top prospects in boxing.”

“I’m incredibly grateful for the support of my team and the guidance from my promoter Amaury Piedra and Coach Santos, as well as Most Valuable Prospects,” concluded Pero, who was a standout amateur from Camaguey, Cuba. “Together, we’re shaping my career in the right direction, and I couldn’t be happier with the progress we’re making.” 




Jessica Camara Defeats Undefeated Former World Champion Hyun Mi Choi in South Korea to Win WBA Gold Title

NEW YORK (April 29, 2024)–Former world title challenger Jessica Camara scored a huge win as she defeated undefeated and former two-division world champion Myun Hi Choi to win the WBA Gol Championship via split decision in Choi’s home country of South Korea.

Camara of Montreal who came up just short in a split decision defeated to unified super lightweight champion Kali Reis, was able to dominate Choi betaking control of the fight from the outset.

With the win, Camara, who is managed by Split-T Management under Brian Cohen adds to her impressive resume that includes wins over Dalila Vazquez (5-1) and former world champion Heather Hardy (22-1). Camara is now 13-4.

Choi, who remarkably won the WBA featherweight bout at age 17 in her professional debut, and went on to make seven defenses. Choi then moved up and won the WBA Super Featherweight title and made defenses of that title. Choi is now 22-0-1.

Camara is promoted by DiBella Entertainment.




Garcia Bests Briceño in Return to Ring

By Mario Ortega Jr. –

OROVILLE, CALIFORNIA – Veteran welterweight Jonathan Garcia revitalized his career with a spirited six-round unanimous decision over Salvador Briceño at the Gold Country Casino Resort on Friday night. 

Briceño (18-8-1, 11 KOs) of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico and representing the Jose Morales Boxing Academy in Roseville, California started off well, landing early with some head-snapping rights and the occasional uppercut. 

Garcia (21-2, 16 KOs) of Watsonville, California began to turn the fight subtly in the third. Garcia, ending a two-and-one-half year layoff, started to land first and get the best of exchanges. 

After starting off well in the fourth, Briceño, 144, may have been overconfident swinging an overhand right that Garcia would counter with a shorter left. Garcia, 144, then came forward and landed his own overhand right that wobbled Briceño. Garcia would land twice more in close as Briceño failed to maintain his footing, resulting in a knockdown.  With half the round to go, Briceño did well to stay on his feet and regain his composure. 

After a rough fourth round, Briceño came on strong late in the fifth. By the last third, Briceño was pressuring Garcia and landing well to close it out. Briceño forced the action in the sixth as well, but was never able to pin down the elusive Garcia. 

Judge Brian Tsukamoto scored the fight 59-54, while judges Reynante Danseco and Kermit Bayliss both scored it 58-55. With the victory, Garcia, now training under Ruben Guerrero, may become an attractive potential opponent for a young prospect on the rise. 

Christian Avalos (2-1-2) of Carson City, Nevada fought through a bloody nose to earn a six-round nod in the eyes of the official scorers ringside over a determined Pedro Angel Cruz (3-5, 2 KOs) of San Jose, California.  

Avalos, 134.5, was rocked back with a hard left and performed a minor miracle to keep his balance to avoid a knockdown in the second. Cruz, 136, would find great success with his left hand throughout the bout. 

Avalos regained his footing and got back into the flow of fight in the third round. The Cruz left hand appeared to be the difference in the fourth as both exchanged willingly. 

By the fifth, the blood was flowing freely from Avalos’ nose as Cruz landed clean with the left. Avalos had a strong sixth round, which ended up sealing the bout on the official cards. 

Judges Brian Tsukamoto and Kermit Bayliss scored the bout 58-56, while Reynante Danseco had it 59-55. Cruz was shocked by the decision, which seemingly could have gone his way. 

Iris Contreras (4-0) of Richmond, California showed no signs of ring rust as she took a hard-fought four-round unanimous decision over Maribel Guerrero (0-2) of Gilroy, California in an action-packed encounter. 

After a close first round, Guerrero, 117, had her best round in the second as she found a home for her right hand. With renewed determination to start the next round, Contreras outworked Guerrero early in the third, before the Gilroy native came on late. Both fighters left it all in the ring to close out the fight, firing in an even exchange until the final bell. 

When the fight concluded, all three judges, Reynante Danseco, Kermit Bayliss and Brian Tsukamoto, had scored the bout 39-37 for Contreras. 

In a battle between fighters with mixed martial arts backgrounds, Miguel Soto-Garcia (1-2) of Fresno, California by way of Mexico City, Distrito Federal, Mexico scored a four-round unanimous decision over Scott Hayward (0-1) of Redding, California 

Soto-Garcia, 148.5, was the slightly more polished boxer. What Hayward, 145.5, lacked in technique he made up for in heart, but a flash knockdown in the second sealed the fight for Soto-Garcia. 

Judge Brian Tsukamoto scored the bout 38-37, while judges Kermit Bayliss and Reynante Danseco both had it 39-36.

Clayton Hibbert (1-2) of Los Angeles, California moved into the win column with a first-round stoppage of Ebert Diaz (1-1-1, 1 KO) of Richmond. 

Fighting out of the southpaw stance, Hibbert, 142, stunned Diaz, 142, with a clean left hand. Before Diaz could shake the cobwebs, Hibbert landed with the ensuing combinations to score a knockdown. Diaz got to his feet, but was stopped standing shortly after as referee David Hartman did not like what he saw. Time of the stoppage was 2:44. 

Marco Ortiz (1-2, 1 KO) of Red Bluff, California avenged a prior defeat in emphatic fashion, stopping Matthew Monroe (1-3) of Sacramento, California in the second round. 

Ortiz, 168.5, took control of the fight late in the first round, landing clean with an uppercut with Monroe, 165, backed into a neutral corner. 

When action resumed in the second, Ortiz came out aggressively and caught Monroe with a flurry that staggered the Sacramento resident. Referee Michael Margado ruled the ropes held up Monroe to score a knockdown. With Monroe on unsteady footing, Margado called the bout at 1:09 of the round. Monroe edged Ortiz by split decision in their first meeting last year. 

Upper Cut Promotions and Fisticuffs Productions, promoters of Friday’s event, present their next card back at Gold Country Casino Resort on July 26th. 

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




MCGRAIL VS. LEACH WEIGHTS AND RUNNING ORDER

6 x 3 mins International Lightweight contest
FRANKIE STRINGER 136.2 lbs v JONATAS RODRIGO GOMES DE OLIVEIRA 133.5 lbs
(Liverpool, England)                      (Muana, Brazil)

followed by

8 x 2 mins International Flyweight contest
MAISEYROSE COURTNEY 113.2 lbs v GIESEPPINA DI STEFANO 114.2 lbs
(Eltham, England)                                  (Piemonte, Italy)

followed by

6 x 3 mins International Super-Flyweight contest
HAMZA UDDIN 115.3 lbs v SANTIAGO SAN EUSEBIO 114.9 lbs
(Walsall, England)              (Lyon, France)

followed by

19:00 LIVE ON DAZN

8 x 3 mins Featherweight contest
JOE MCGRAIL 126.4 lbs v RYAN WALKER 125.7 lbs
(Liverpool, England)           (Newham, England)

followed by

10 x 2 mins vacant IBF World Lightweight Title 
BEATRIZ FERREIRA 134.8 lbs v YANINA DEL CARMEN LESCANO 134.4 lbs
(Sao Paulo, Brazil)                        (Concordia, Argentina)

followed by

4 x 3 mins International Middleweight contest 
STE CLARKE 161.3 lbs v ARTJOM SPATAR 160.2 lbs
(Liverpool, England)         (Narva, Estonia)

followed by

10 x 3 mins Commonwealth Silver Title & Final Eliminator for English Super-Welterweight Title
JUNAID BOSTAN 153.5 lbs v JACK MARTIN 151.9 lbs
(Rotherham, England)            (Southminster, England)

followed by

10 x 3 mins WBA International Super-Bantamweight Title & British Title Eliminator
PETER MCGRAIL 121.8 lbs v MARC LEACH 121.2 lbs
(Liverpool, England)              (Salford, England)  




“LET”S SETTLE”NINE PHILLY FIGHTERS ON ONE PHILLY CARDSaturday, April 27, Liacouras Center on the Campus of Temple! Official Weights

PHILADELPHIA, April 26, 2024  —  Philadelphia’s biggest name fighters and future stars will fill a loaded boxing card that takes place on Saturday, April 27 at Liacouras Center on the campus of Temple University.

LET”S SETTLE is promoted by Dominic Walton’s Teflon Promotions, their first promotion.

Tickets, priced from $75, are on sale and available at TicketMaster, at this ink Here

“I’m super excited to bring Professional boxing to Philadelphia in a way that has not been part of the Philly culture in a long time,” said Dominic Walton. “I’m creating a platform to help Philly Fighters become world champions. As a former boxer, with memories of the legendary Blue Horizon, I wanted to make a statement with my first promotion and that’s why April 27 is at the Liacouras Center, and all future shows will be on the same type stage.”

“This is the biggest show in Philadelphia,” said Jesse Hart. “The whole city is in an uproar. It’s Dominic’s first promotion and he’s doing it right. There is a lot of Philadelphia talent on this card – present fighters and future stars. Any of these fights could be a Philadelphia main event.”

Main Event, Ten Rounds – Heavyweights

Andrew “Beast” Tabiti 221.1 lbs., 20-2, 16 KOs, Las Vegas, NV vs

Junior “Hurricane” Wright 223 lbs., 20-5, 17 KOs, Philadelphia PA

Co-Main Event, 8 Rounds – Light Heavyweights

Jesse “Hard Work” Hart 175.2 lbs., 30-3, 24 KOs, Philadelphia, PA    vs

Daniel Aduku TBA, 15-4, 11 KOs, Accra, Ghana 

Eight Rounds – Middleweights

Nikita “White Chocolate” Ababiy 162 lbs., 12-0, 6 KOsBrooklyn, NY         vs

Jesus Cruz Silva 156.6 lbs., 6-3-0, 1KOs,  Monterrey Mexico

 8 Round Cruiser Weights

Muhsin Cason TBA, 11-0 8 KOsPhilladelphia, PA      vs

DeShon Webster TBA, 12-7-3 6 KOs, Lenexa Kansas

BLK STREAMING BEGINS 8 Rounds – Bantamweights

Dylan Price 121 lbs, 17-0, 11 KOs, Philadelphia, PA  

Sebastian “Tito” Franzolini 119.9 lbs., 19-14-2, 1 KO, Buenos Aires, Argentina

4 Rounds – Super lightweights

Juan “Different Breed” Rivera 143 lbs, Pro Debut, Philadelphia, PA        vs

DeAndre Menser 141.3 lbs., 1-2, Durham, North Carolina

4 Rounds- lightweights

Juan Marrero 133.4 lbs., 3-0, 3 KOsPhiladelphia, Pa       vs

Daniel McCall 135.5 lbs., 0-3, 1 KO, Atlanta, GA

8 Rounds – Heavyweights

Joey “Tank” Dawejko 257 lbs., 27-11, 15 KOs, Philadelphia, PA            vs

Walter Burns 228 lbs., 7-1, 5 KOs, Detroit Michigan

 6 Rounds – Super Lightweights

“Hank” Lundy 140 lbs., 31-14, 14 KOsPhiladelphia, PA               vs

Juan De La Cruz 140.1 lbs, 11-22-1, 7 KOs, Front Royal, Virginia

4 Rounds – Welterweights

Seifullah Jihad Wise 148 lbs., 4-8, 1 KO, Philadelphia, PA               vs

Aaron Newmones 146.1 lbs, Atlantic City, NJ, 2-4

4 Rounds – Middleweights

Tariq Green 162.2 lbs., 5-2-1, 3 KOs, Philadelphia, PA          vs

Rancy Slanger 162.9 lbs, 1-0, Levittown, PA

Follow Teflon promotions

At https://www.teflonpromotions.com/

On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/teflon_promotions/




Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing Signs Undefeated Super Middleweight Contender Junior Younan

WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK (April 26, 2024) –Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing is pleased to announce the signing of undefeated super middleweight Junior Younan to an exclusive promotional contract.

“I am super excited to be part of Star Boxing. As a fighter who was born and raised in New York, I feel like it’s a natural fit. Thank you to Joe DeGuardia for the opportunity and I promise to deliver many special nights of boxing,” said Younan.

“We are very excited about signing Junior, who is extremely talented and blessed with fast hands and boxing aptitude. We are looking forward to having him on our shows and will announce his next fight within the next couple of days.  We plan to keep him busy and by the end of the year feel he will be ready for anyone in the division. The fight we would love to make is with Edgar Berlanga, a true ‘Battle of Brooklyn’, it would be a huge attraction here, and a win would have him in the front of the line for Canelo (Alvarez)(David) Morrell(David) Benavidez, all of the champions at 168,” said Star Boxing President, Joe DeGuardia

Younan, 28 of Brooklyn, New York is 19-0-1 with 11 knockouts.

Younan was a decorated amateur boxer who compiled a 90-5 record before turning professional in 2013 at the age of 18. Once dubbed by The New York Times as “a boxing prodigy” as a 10-year-old, Younan was a two-time National Junior Golden Gloves champion, the 2011 National Junior Olympic championship, and at one point was the No. 1-rated junior boxer in his weight class by USA Boxing.

Younan turned professional on November 9, 2013, with a first-round stoppage over Kenneth Taylor Schmitz in Brooklyn. On his way to his undefeated record, Younan has amassed some quality wins, including defeats over tough seasoned fighters such as Mike Guy and Dauren Yeleinusinov at the Barclays Center (Brooklyn, NY). In his last outing, Younan won a unanimous decision over Ramses Agaton on November 24, 2023, in Cancun, Mexico.

Younan’s first bout for Star Boxing will be announced in the coming days.




Hall of Famer & Boxing Icon Roberto Duran Confirmed for Seventh Annual Box Fan Expo, During Cinco De Mayo Weekend, Saturday May 4, in Las Vegas

Las Vegas (April 26, 2024) – Hall of Famer and Boxing Icon Roberto Duran has confirmed that he will appear at the Seventh Annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday May 4, 2024 at the Las Vegas Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Expo will also coincide with the mega fight between Canelo Alvarez vs Jaime Munguia, that will take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena.

Duran will hold a Meet & Greet with his fans alongside “Hands of Stone Entertainment” and “VEUIT” booth, during the fan event held over the Cinco De Mayo weekend.

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

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

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

Duran will make his third appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and memorabilia. Boxing fans will also have an opportunity to take pictures with this Boxing Icon also known as “Manos De Piedra” (“Hands of Stone”). 

Duran joins Oscar Valdez, Teofimo Lopez, Lennox Lewis, Devin Haney Mia St. John, Edgar Berlanga, Franchón Crews-Dezurn, Roy Jones Jr., Erik Morales, Shawn Porter, Fernando Vargas, Juan Manuel Marquez, Michael Spinks, Claressa Shields and Marco Antonio Barrera as an early commitment to this year’s Box Fan Expo, with more Boxing stars to be announced.

About Roberto Duran

Roberto Duran, a true legend of the sport is widely regarded as one of the greatest boxers of all time. He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame on June 10th, 2007. A versatile brawler in the ring, he was nicknamed “Manos de Piedra” (“Hands of Stone“) during his career. In 2002, he was chosen by The Ring to be the fifth greatest fighter of the last 80 years. The Associated Press voted Duran as the #1 lightweight of the 20th century. Many even consider him the greatest lightweight of all time. He held world titles at four different weights – lightweight (1972–79), welterweight (1980), light middleweight (1983–84) and middleweight (1989). He was the second boxer to have fought a span of five decades, the first being Jack Johnson.

About Hands of Stone Entertainment 

In 2019, Irichelle Duran daughter of boxing icon Roberto Duran, co-founded with her brother Victor, Hands of Stone Entertainment to continue their father’s legacy. Hands of Stone Entertainment is dedicated to the production of documentaries, reality shows, among others for streaming and tv platforms. Hands of Stone Entertainment has a solid foundation that is supported by its team, people from the sports industry. Some born into it and others with extensive renowned experience and background in marketing, business and television productions in recognized media networks.

About VEUIT 

VEUIT is the worlds first streaming media platform and social media platform built on WEB 3.0 and blockchain. Now, for the first time in history, both content creators and investors alike can finally see the true fruits of their labor, through clear and transparent blockchain-based smart contracts, that eliminate the possibility of unethical accounting, and provide a real-time, 100% accurate ledger of every transaction to anyone who uses their technology.

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

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

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

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –

https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2024

To request information on exhibiting and sponsorship at the Expo:

For media credentials:

Contact us:

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

For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com

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

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

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




Weights from Washington PA

Lyubomyr “The Demolition Man” Pinchuk 206.8 VS Andrew Satterfield 241.4

Ivan Dancha 152.4 VS Jerome “Thoroughbred” Baxter 151.6

Rosalindo Morales 133 VS Marcello Williams 133.4

Teddy Mrkonja 134.8 VS Tyler Pacheco 135.4

Joseph Turk 212.6 VS Skyler Mauller 200.4

Brian “Big Beauty” Mowry 250.4 VS Daniel Fry 224.2

Venue: Hollywood Casino at The Meadows

Promoter: Integrity Fighter Management

TV: BXNGTV.com




Briceño to Battle Garcia in Oroville

By Mario Ortega Jr.-

OROVILLE, CALIFORNIA – Salvador Briceño takes on comebacking Jonathan Garcia in a six-round welterweight bout to headline the return of professional boxing to the Gold Country Casino Resort on Friday night. The match-up of offensive-minded veterans will cap a six-bout card. Fighters weighed-in Thursday afternoon at the host venue. 

Briceño (18-7-1, 11 KOs) of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico and representing the Jose Morales Boxing Academy in Roseville, California is fresh off an eight-round unanimous decision over veteran Cameron Krael on March 16th and with a win Friday, hopes to keep a busy pace the rest of the year. 

“The plan Jose and I have is to win five or six more fights and then find the bigger fights,” Briceño explained. “We are taking it slow, making the right decisions for my career.”

Garcia (20-2, 16 KOs) of Watsonville, California will look to shake-off the second longest inactive period of his pro career with a tough assignment in Briceño. Garcia, looking to derail his opponent’s plans, went 5-1 entirely in Mexico after ending his last layoff of over four years in 2019. 

Garcia was known as a fan-friendly fighter during his rise in the Southern California boxing scene early in his career. Briceño is not often outworked in the ring, so the bout with Garcia figures to be entertaining as long as it lasts. Both fighters came in at 144-pounds on Thursday afternoon. 

In a lightweight fight that promises action, Christian Avalos (1-1-2) of Carson City, Nevada will take on Pedro Angel Cruz (3-4, 2 KOs) of San Jose, California over a scheduled six rounds. 

Avalos and Cruz are no stranger to fans that attended last May’s event at the Gold Country Casino Resort. On that night, Avalos engaged in a four-round war with Mark Salgado that ended in a draw. On that same May card, Cruz pounded out a four-round unanimous decision over tough David Reyes.

Avalos and Cruz were the last fighters to weigh-in Thursday. Avalos weighed-in one-half pound under the contracted weight at 134.5. Cruz, having attempted to sweat down to the contracted 135-pounds, came up short and scaled 136. The extra pound will cost Cruz, but the fight is on. 

Ebert Diaz (1-0-1, 1 KO) of Richmond, California will return to the Gold Country Casino Resort to take on Clayton Hibbert (0-2) of Los Angeles, California in a four-round light welterweight bout. Diaz and Hibbert both made 142-pounds. 

In a middleweight rematch, Marco Ortiz (0-2) of Red Bluff, California gets a second crack Matthew Monroe (1-2) of Sacramento, California. Monroe scored a four-round decision over Ortiz last November. Monroe made 165-pounds, while Ortiz scaled 168.5. When they met the first time, Monroe, at 176-pounds, was four pounds heavier than Ortiz.

Two fighters with mixed martial arts backgrounds will throw hands in a four-round welterweight bout when Scott Hayward of Redding, California makes his professional boxing debut against Miguel Soto-Garcia (0-2) of Fresno, California by way of Mexico City, Distrito Federal, Mexico. Soto-Garcia came in heavy at 148.5 to Hayward’s 145.5-pounds. 

Maribel Guerrero (0-1) of Gilroy will take on Iris Contreras (3-0) of Richmond in a four-round bantamweight bout. Guerrero, cousin of Robert Guerrero and trained by her uncle Ruben Guerrero Sr., weighed-in at 117-pounds. Contreras, trained by her father Filemon Contreras, scaled 116.5-pounds. 

Quick Weigh-in Results:

Welterweights, 6 rounds

Briceño 144

Garcia 144

Lightweights, 6 Rounds

Avalos 134.5

Cruz 136

Super middleweights, 4 Rounds

Monroe 165

Ortiz 168.5

Light welterweights, 4 Rounds

Diaz 142

Hibbert 142

Welterweights, 4 Rounds

Hayward 145.5

Soto-Garcia 148.5

Bantamweights, 4 Rounds

Guerrero 117

Contreras 116.5

Tickets for the event, promoted by Upper Cut Promotions and Fisticuffs Productions, are available online at uppercutpro.com 

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




PBC ON PRIME VIDEO LINEUP TO FEATURE TWO EXCITING SHOWDOWNS ON SATURDAY, MAY 4 LEADING UP TO CANELO VS. MUNGUIA PAY-PER-VIEW

LAS VEGAS – April 25, 2024 – A pair of showdowns featuring the next wave of super welterweight stars in separate attractions will highlight PBC on Prime Video action taking place Saturday, May 4 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The two matchups will be available via free access to all fans, regardless of Prime membership or purchase of the PPV card.

The live streaming presentation will be topped by hard-hitting contender Jesus “Mono” Ramos taking on Venezuela’s Johan Gonzalez in a 10-round bout, plus rising contender Vito Mielnicki Jr. battles L.A.’s Ronald Cruz in a 10-round fight kicking off the stream at 6:00 p.m. ET/3:00 p.m. PT.

These bouts will lead into a four-fight PBC Pay-Per-View on Prime Video beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT as Canelo Promotions presents a Cinco de Mayo weekend blockbuster featuring pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez putting his undisputed super middleweight world title on the line against unbeaten all-action former world champion Jaime Munguía in the main event.

The pay-per-view undercard will feature Interim WBC Welterweight Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios battling Argentine power-puncher Fabian “TNT” Maidana in the co-main event, Interim WBC Featherweight Champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa facing former world champion Jessie Magdaleno, and undefeated WBA Welterweight Champion Eimantas Stanionis taking on unbeaten two-time Olympian Gabriel Maestre in the pay-per-view opener.

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

Tickets for the live event are on sale now at AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions, in association with Golden Boy Promotions and Zanfer Boxing Promotions.

“PBC on Prime Video action will return with two young stars looking to improve their position in the stacked 154-pound division,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Jesus Ramos and Vito Mielnicki Jr. have both shown they have what it takes to be future champions, but will have stiff tests on May 4 against Johan Gonzalez and Ronald Cruz respectively, providing an ideal lead in to the pay-per-view event headlined by Canelo Álvarez vs. Jaime Munguía from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.”

**JESUS RAMOS VS. JOHAN GONZALEZ**

Returning to the ring after a close and debated decision defeat in his last fight, Jesus “Mono” Ramos will look to regain his momentum toward a world title opportunity when he faces the streaking Venezuelan contender Johan Gonzalez in a 10-round super welterweight clash.

The 23-year-old Ramos (20-1, 16 KOs) was on the wrong end of a decision last September against top super welterweight contender Erickson Lubin that also came on the undercard of a Canelo Álvarez headlined event. A native of Casa Grande, Ariz., Ramos had worked his way up the rankings by defeating a slew of contenders including Brian Mendoza, Javier Molina, Vladimir Hernandez and an emphatic stoppage of then unbeaten Joey Spencer. Trained by his father Jesus Sr. and the nephew of veteran contender Abel, Ramos entered the Lubin fighting having stopped seven of his last 10 opponents.

“I’m excited to be back in the ring again,” said Ramos. “My team and I have been training hard to prepare for this fight. I have a tough opponent in Johan Gonzalez who’s hungry for a big opportunity, but I’m hungry too. I want to prove that I belong at the top of the division and I can’t wait to put on a great performance on May 4.”

A native of Valencia, Venezuela who now trains in Las Vegas, Gonzalez (34-2, 33 KOs) made his stateside debut in 2023 as he earned a pair of victories in the U.S., first stopping Ricardo Ruben Villalba in August before defeating Guido Emmanuel Schramm in November. The 33-year-old won those fights to bounce back from a close 2022 decision defeat to world title challenger Magomed Kurbanov. A pro since 2017, Gonzalez won his first 22 bouts before dropping a split decision in 2018.

“I’m extremely motivated to be facing an opponent like Jesus Ramos who has experience fighting on big cards like this,” said Gonzalez. “This is my chance to show my skills and announce myself on the biggest stage. I appreciate everyone who helped make this fight happen and I can’t wait to show what I can do on May 4.”

**VITO MIELNICKI JR. VS. RONALD CRUZ**

Riding a nine-fight winning streak, rising super welterweight and WBA No. 4 ranked contender Vito Mielnicki Jr. will hope to build off a four-victory 2023 when he makes his 2024 debut against durable veteran Ronald Cruz in a 10-round super welterweight showdown.

Representing Roseland, N.J., Mielnicki (16-1, 11 KOs) has shown improved power in recent outings, stopping four-straight opponents and seven of his last nine. Most recently, Mielnicki scored first-round knockouts in back-to-back fights, blasting out Alexis Salazar in November and Salim Larbi in December. The 21-year-old first turned heads during his exceptional amateur career where he compiled a 147-22 record and was named the Most Outstanding Boxer of the 2011 Junior National Golden Gloves, amongst many accolades before turning pro.

“I’m having a great training camp down in Houston and my team and I are prepared for the best version of Ronald Cruz on May 4,” said Mielnicki. “I’m excited and blessed to be fighting on Prime Video for the first time. I want to thank my whole team for continuing to put me on the biggest stages.”

A native of Los Angeles, Cruz (19-3-1, 12 KOs) won 18 of his first 19 pro fights after turning pro in 2014 and has proven a sturdy challenge throughout his career. The 33-year-old fought Damian Sosa to a draw in August 2022 before going the distance with unbeaten prospect Xander Zayas in a losing effort in June 2023. Most recently Cruz scored a unanimous decision victory over Jose Aguirre in December 2023.

“I’m very thankful to everyone who helped get me this great opportunity,” said Cruz. “Come May 4, I will not be denied. Every chance I get, I’m taking full advantage of it. I’m in this position with one amateur fight and no handouts. Love me or hate, enjoy the show.”

#         #         #

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




THIS SPECTACULAR FIGHTING EVENT IS DEDICATED TO THE HONOR OF THE LIFE & LEGACY OF THE LATE GREAT JOSE SULAIMAN IN THE SPIRIT OF FIGHTING FOR WORLD PEACE–WORLD PEACE–BRONER VS. COBBS,MIKAELJAN VS. ROZICKI ON FRIDAY, JUNE 7 AT SEMINOLE HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO

FT. LAUDERDALE, FL (April 25, 2024)—Hall of Fame boxing promoter Don King and Kris Lawrence’s The Heavyweight Factory present an exciting evening of first-class boxing featuring Adrien “The Problem” Broner (35-4-1 with 24 KOs) and Blair “The Flair” Cobbs (16-1-1 with 10 KOs) on Friday, June 7th at the beautiful Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.

The long anticipated featured fight of the night will see Cincinnati’s Adrien Broner stepping into the ring against former NABF Welterweight Champion Blair Cobbs. This high-stakes matchup marks Cobbs’ return to the ring for the first time in nearly two years, facing off against the highly decorated Broner as they fight for the WBC “People’s Championship”.

On the heels of an impressive knockout victory, newly crowned WBC Cruiserweight Champion Norair “The Dark Horse” Mikaeljan (27-2 with 12 KOs) aims to defend his title for the first time against Canada’s hard-hitting Ryan “The Bruiser” Rozicki (20-1 with 19 KOs).

In addition, Paterson, NJ’s Ian “The Young General” Green (18-2 with 12 KOs) will be defending his WBA Continental USA Middleweight title. The fan-favorite Green enters this bout on the strength of six straight victories.

In addition to the above three championship fights, a heavyweight feature fight is set as

Cassius Chaney (23-1, 16 KOs) of New London, CT takes on Michael “The Bounty” Hunter (22-1-2, 16 KOs) of Las Vegas, NV.

“This spectacular fighting event is dedicated to the honor of the life and legacy of the late great Jose Sulaiman in the spirit of world peace,” said promoter Don King. “Jose was at the forefront of always putting on great fights and we plan to honor him with this great card.”

“I want to thank Mauricio Sulaiman and Don King for this great opportunity for Ryan Rozicki,” said Dan Otter, promoter for Rozicki.    “Rozicki won’t disappoint boxing fans in his quest for a title.”

WBA NABA Light Heavyweight Champion Ahmed “The American Pharoah” Elbiali (23-1, 18 KOs) will defend his title and Michael “The Brazilian Rocky” Oliveira (21-2, 16 KOs) of Miami, FL will be featured in a super middleweight attraction. NABA Welterweight Champion Tresean “Trigger” Wiggins (16-5-3, 9 KOs) of Newburgh, New York will defend his title.  All opponents are to be announced.

Cruiserweight sensation Yuniel “The KO Doctor” Dorticos (26-2, 24 KOs) from Cuba and young Cuban middleweight rising star Yoenlis Feliciano “Yoyo” Hernandez (3-0) will also be featured on the boxing card. 

Rising star, hometown sensation De’von Williams (4-0, 4 KOs) of Ft. Lauderdale, FL will meet Travis Floyd of Douglasville, GA.

Ticket prices will be announced soon. 




UFC® RETURNS TO LOUISVILLE FOR UFC FIGHT NIGHT ON JUNE 8 AT KFC YUM! CENTER

Las Vegas – UFC® announced today it will return to Louisville, Ky. at the KFC Yum! Center for just the second time in the promotion’s history and the first time in over thirteen years for a stacked fight night event on Saturday, June 8.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT® in Louisville prelims will stream exclusively on ESPN+ in English and Spanish beginning at 5 p.m. ET / 2 p.m. PT. The main card will be simulcast in English and Spanish on ESPN and ESPN+ starting at 8 p.m. ET/ 5 p.m. PT.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT® in Louisville tickets will go on sale Friday, April 26 at 10 a.m. ET and are available for purchase at ticketmaster.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. UFC Fight Club® members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets Wednesday, April 24 at 10 a.m. ET via the website www.ufcfightclub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thursday, April 25 starting at 10 a.m. ET. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

“Thanks to the generous support of Louisville Tourism and the Louisville Sports Commission, we are honored to welcome UFC back to Louisville and to host such a prestigious event at the KFC Yum! Center,” said ASM Global General Manager Eric Granger “Our venue is known for delivering unforgettable live entertainment experiences, and we can’t wait to host an action-packed night of world-class MMA action.”

“We are thrilled to be returning to the great city of Louisville after such a long time,” said UFC Executive Vice President of Event Development Peter Dropick. “We knew it was time to bring another stacked event to the terrific fans in Kentucky and we can’t wait to put on an amazing show in the KFC Yum! Center on June 8.”

 
“We’re very excited to have a UFC Fight Night card back at the KFC Yum! Center on June 8,” said Louisville Sports Commission President & CEO Greg Fante. “Having the highest level of MMA return to Louisville for the first time in more than a decade will be electric. We know there is a strong fanbase in the region and we anticipate they will come out strong to support this event.” 

VIP Experience packages are available via On Location, UFC’s Official VIP Experience Provider. Enjoy exclusive access with an official ticket package that can feature premium seating, VIP access to weigh-ins, all-inclusive hospitality, meet-and-greets with UFC fighters and more. For more information, visit UFCVIP.com to view package details.

Current bouts on the card include:

  • No. 14 ranked light heavyweight contender Dominick Reyes (12-4, fighting out of Victorville, Calif.) returns to action against Dustin Jacoby (19-8-1, fighting out of Springfield, Ill.)
  • A highly-anticipated bout in the bantamweight division sees Raul Rosas Jr. (8-1, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) battle The Ultimate Fighter season 29 winner Ricky Turcios (13-3, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif.)
  • Miguel Baeza (10-3, fighting out of Davie, Fla.) returns to the Octagon to welcome Punahele Soriano (9-4, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) to the welterweight division
  • An exciting lightweight bout pits Thiago Moises (18-7, fighting out of Indaiatuba, Brazil) against Ludovit Klein (21-4-1, fighting out of Nove Zamky, Slovakia)
  • Charles Radtke (9-3, fighting out of Naples, Fla.) aims to hand Carlos Prates (18-6, fighting out of Sao Paulo, Brazil) his first UFC loss in a welterweight contest
  • Middleweights Brunno Ferreira (11-1, fighting out of Curitiba, Brazil) and Dustin Stoltzfus (Germersheim, Germany) lock horns
  • John Castaneda (21-6, fighting out of Minneapolis, Minn.) meets the undefeated Daniel Marcos (15-0 1NC, fighting out of Boca Raton, Fla. by way of Lima, Peru) in a bantamweight scrap
  • The only two-time winner of The Ultimate FighterBrad Katona (15-3, fighting out of Dublin, Ireland by way of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada) takes on Jesse Butler (12-5, fighting out of West Monroe, La.) at bantamweight
  • Undefeated strawweight Eduarda Moura (10-0, fighting out of Salvador, Bahia, Brazil) seeks another finish when she faces Denise Gomes (8-3, fighting out of Niteroi, Brazil)
  • Bantamweights make their case to break into the rankings as Cody Stamann (21-6-1, fighting out of Sparta, Mich.) battlesTaylor Lapilus (19-4, fighting out of Paris, France)
  • Julian Marquez (9-4, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) and Zach Reese (6-1, fighting out of Shiner, Texas) go toe-to-toe in an all-action middleweight bout
  • Andrea Lee (13-9, fighting out of Shreveport, La.) and Montana De La Rosa (12-9-1, fighting out of Fort Worth, Texas) meet in a classic striker versus grappler matchup
  • Rayanne dos Santos (14-7, fighting out of Belém, Pará, Brazil) intends to spoil the UFC debut of Puja Tomar (8-4, fighting out of Muzaffarnagar, India)

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

###

About UFC®

UFC® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 700 million fans and 259 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world while broadcasting to over 975 million TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 80 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is part of TKO Group Holdings (NYSE: TKO) and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC and @UFC on X, Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok: @UFC.

About KFC Yum! Center

The KFC Yum! Center is a multi-purpose arena that overlooks the Ohio River in downtown Louisville and attracts approximately 1 million fans to ticketed events annually. It boasts a total of 721,762 square feet while offering an arena bowl exceeding 22,000 seats and eleven bars and lounges all within walking distance of more than 6,000 hotel rooms in downtown Louisville. It is home to the University of Louisville men’s and women’s basketball programs and attracts several top grossing concerts and events annually. The KFC Yum! Center is a state-of-the-art facility with advance technology capabilities that is owned by the Louisville Arena Authority and managed by ASM Global. For more information, visit www.kfcyumcenter.com

About ESPN+?? ??

https://espnpressroom.com/us/espnplus

About ESPN

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




MCGRAIL VS. LEACH FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

Frank Smith, Matchroom Boxing CEO:

“The NXTGEN shows give these young fighters the opportunity to be ready for when they step up to that next level. They come here, they see the backdrops, the press conference – it gives them everything they need. I was just talking to Hamza about how confident he is about talking – I said if he’s got 10% of what Sam Jones has then he’ll be alright. It’s exactly what they need, the right fights and the build-up as well. 

“Going back to the fight in December, Peter was winning every round. He’s a fighter Peter and he wants to test himself. He wants to move quickly and take real fights. Brilliant fighter – we believe he’s got so much more to give. That’s why we’re here headlining with Peter. It’s a shame that the Ja’Rico O’Quinn rematch didn’t happen, but that’s not going to define Peter’s career. If it happened great, but if it didn’t, it doesn’t matter.

“Now we move on, Marc Leach is going to be a real test for him. It’s probably a harder fight as well. He’s got an awkward style and it’s a real fight for Peter McGrail. Too many people in boxing think that a loss defines them in the sport. The reality is if you’re willing to take tests and willing to step up and take real fights – that’s what the sport is about.”

Peter McGrail:

“I was gutted it wasn’t Ja’Rico. Obviously originally it was so things were good, but there’s a lot on the line for this fight. It’s a British Title Eliminator and it’s for the WBA International belt – and obviously a former British Champion. If anything, I’m going to be in a better position when I win on Saturday. That Ja’Rico fight is always going to be there and I’ll always be looking to avenge that loss. If Ja’Rico is watching, hopefully after this fight he doesn’t flap it again and he’ll get over to the UK, or I’ll even go back to America again. That’s in the future. Since that opponent got changed I’ve been fully focused on Marc Leach and that’s what is happening on Saturday. A loss doesn’t define anyone. If you like at 95% of all the greats – there are losses on their records. Especially after coming back from a loss, I’m looking to put a show on on Saturday and close the show – especially headlining in my home city in front of a packed arena full of Scousers.”

Marc Leach:

“I don’t turn down no fights. I’m in the sport to be the best. Peter McGrail is a lot better than my original opponent that I was set to face, so for me it was a no brainer. We said yes straight away. I’ve lost my last two and he lost his last fight. We’re both coming off the back of a loss and we’ve got a lot to prove. A loss doesn’t define a person – I’ve learnt from my losses and I’ve come back stronger. Hopefully when I win on Saturday it puts me back in the mix for the rest of the titles. It gets my name back in the mix for the top class fights. That’s what I’m in the sport for. I want to keep on proving myself and keep on showing what I’m about. I’ve just seen his last fight. For me he was comfortably winning that fight and switched off for a split second and got caught with that one punch. Sometimes that’s all it takes in boxing. He’s not going to be able to switch off against me. I’m going to be more elusive, throwing shots at him everywhere so he’s going to have to be switched on. I’m looking forward to a tough ten hard rounds.”

Beatriz Ferreira:

“She is so wrong. I see these challenges and I seize these challenges. I see this as an opportunity to prepare and train for winning the gold medal. I will show how focused I am on winning this World Title in the ring on Saturday. I thought I’d train hard previously before I started preparing for this fight. Yes, ‘The Beast’ is going to be unleashed on Saturday. I really can’t wait to face these excellent opponents. Everyone is asking for these fights and I believe that I am getting to a level for when the opportunity comes I really can’t wait for it. I will be ready and I will be ready to beat them.”

Yanina Del Carmen Lescano:

“I want to say thank you very much for the welcome. As I said yesterday, it is very important for me to have this new opportunity to win a World Title and it is really important given that I would become the first female fighter from my hometown to become a World Champion. It’s really important for me, my family and all the people that support me. It depends on the way things develop during the fight. Obviously we have prepared for the fight and we have a fight plan, but we’ll really see how things play out in the ring and then take it from there. We feel as a team that she’s not quite 100% focused on this fight and this could work in our favour.”

Junaid Bostan:

“A trip full of lessons inside and outside of the ring. Not to speak too much about it – for once – been there and done that. I’m looking forward to showing the lessons that I’ve learnt on Saturday. Everybody talks about pressure but nobody puts more pressure of me than myself. I’m a perfectionist – I want to look good and I want to perform. It goes without saying, I want to win by any means necessary. That’s what I plan on doing on Saturday – in flying colours. Of course it’s always nice winning your first title as a professional, it will be a good moment, but at the same time, the way I’m getting hyped up, the way I’m getting talked about – I’m on for bigger and better things. I know Lee Cutler has that English Title at the moment, whether he vacates or not, I’ll fight whoever is fighting the eliminator after that. I’m here for it all. The prediction is a Junaid Bostan win – don’t be surprised if I get him out of there within the distance. If not, I’m looking at giving out a boxing lesson – a hard hard beating for 12 rounds.”

Jack Martin:

“I’m just here to project myself on the big level now and prove that I’m here. Prove that I deserve to be here. I’ve worked so hard – I didn’t have a great amateur pedigree. I’ve worked extremely hard to get where I am on the small hall shows. I’ve been underdog time and time again, and proved so many people wrong. We’ve been working a lot smarter and a lot harder in the gym this camp. I know that I can do that, just with my natural heart, I know that I can go to deep waters and I know that I can handle myself there. This is about being a bit more smarter. Junaid isn’t just going to get dragged into that, He’s a clever fighter, I’ve got the utmost respect for him. It’s about being a lot more smarter now and realising that I can fight and box.”

Joe McGrail:

“It was a night of mixed emotions with obviously me winning and our Peter losing. That’s behind us now we’re both looking to put unbelievable performances on this Saturday with Peter getting back to winning ways. I’ve had a little watch of Ryan Walker and I know that he’s going to come and he’s going to have a go. He’s not just going to try and survive or anything like that – he’ll just walk onto more shots which is better for me. I’ve got this one my first eight, probably another eight and then it’ll be ten-round level and hopefully a title by the end of the year.”

Ste Clarke:

“I found out I’m on the card last week. I’ve got boss support. I’ve always had big support, so I appreciate everyone coming out and buying tickets so quickly. I’m buzzing to be back out again so quickly and I want to thank Eddie, Frank and my team for getting me out so quickly. First year as a pro I want to stay nice and active so I’m going in the right direction. Middleweight has always been a busy division. I’m looking forward to big fights in the future with some of the prospects who are coming up now. We’re focusing on what we’re learning in the gym and we’ll continue to improve and gain that experience.”

Maiseyrose Courtney:

“That’s what I said to Tony the other day – I’m either doing really well or I’m easily beat. If people want to call me out and chat a little rubbish about me I don’t mind it. I like fighting. I always say I like fighting and I like chinning people, that’s what I like to do. I’ve got an eight-rounder next. I’ve been asked to fight Chloe Watson for the EBU – do her and then whoever is next, I’ll do the rest of them! I’ve got the best team around me, Tony knows exactly what he’s doing with me. He wouldn’t even bring title fights like that up to me if he didn’t think I was ready to beat them.”

Hamza Uddin:

“It’s been amazing honestly, to see the platform and the levels here. It’s incredible for me, I’m just used to fighting! This is all new to me, the talking, I just want to get in there and fight. In terms of the quality of my opponents, we want to be moving fast. I’m ready for whatever the team is ready to give me. Give me anyone. Whatever style I bring it’s fireworks. If you want me to keep my hands low and move around, or if you want me to stand there and go like Mike Tyson – I can do anything you want! I’ve got power, I’ve got speed, I’ve got timing, I’ve got IQ like Einstein. Anything you want i can do. Whatever my opponent does, I’ll adapt and take him out! Don’t blink. I will be the first British Bangladeshi World Champion – nobody from my heritage has ever come close to this level. We’re getting there but we’re not there. We’re not talking about years, we’re literally talking about the next 12 months – we want to go really fast!”

Frankie Stringer:
 

“I’ve stayed in the gym but you need to be back under the lights don’t you. This is my first Matchroom show so I’ve got to impress. I can’t wait. I was at the Everton-Liverpool game last night. I was made up. There were a few unhappy reds commenting on my picture. I put a little post up and I got a bit of stick off it. I’m watching and sparring undisputed champions like Josh Taylor. I’ve got Liam Smith who’s been there and done it looking after and guarding my career. It’s helped me a lot and it will in the future.”




TOP AMERICAN HEAVYWEIGHT JERMAINE FRANKLIN HEADLINES NEXT INSTALLMENT OF “BIG TIME BOXING USA,” PRESENTED BY SALITA PROMOTIONS

DETROIT – April 25, 2024 – Salita Promotions’ top American heavyweight Jermaine Franklin Jr. (22-2, 14 KOs) returns to his home state of Michigan to take on former US Olympian Devin Vargas (22-10, 9 KOs) from nearby Sylvania, OH, in the 10-round main event of the next installment of the “Big Time Boxing USA” boxing series on Thursday, May 23, from Wayne State Fieldhouse in Detroit and live on global premier sports platform DAZN (8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT).

In an intriguing eight-round co-feature, undefeated former national amateur champion Joshua James Pagan (9-0, 4 KOs) of Grand Rapids, MI, will take the biggest step up of his young career in a dangerous test against fellow undefeated prospect Roger Hilley (13-0, 8 KOs) of Chattanooga, TN, for the Junior NABF Super Lightweight Championship.

True to BIG TIME BOXING’s emerging format, several local prospects will appear in the night’s supporting televised bouts, including Detroit’s undefeated “Hitman 2.0” Da’Velle Smith (8-0, 6 KOs), once-beaten Dearborn-based KO artist Husam Al Mashhadi (9-1, 8 KOs), Mount Clemens, Michigan’s undefeated and hard-punching Luis Quintero (7-0, 7 KOs). 

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and can be purchased online HERE or in-person at the Wayne State Fieldhouse Box Office.

“We have assembled some of the baddest men from the Detroit boxing scene for this fight card,” said Dmitriy Salita, president of Salita Promotions, which is amid its first multi-event agreement with DAZN. “Future world champions facing tough competition in a true test of mettle and looking to take the next step — this is what the Big Time Boxing series is all about. Each man is hungry to make a statement of his own, especially Jermaine, who is one of America’s top-ranked heavyweights. I want to thank DAZN for giving all the fighters a worldwide platform to show out for Detroit. And I thank the Detroit boxing community for coming out to support their favorite hometown fighters.”

Still young for a heavyweight contender, the 30-year-old Franklin got back into the win column with a dominant 10-round unanimous decision (100-90 twice, 99-91) over the previously unbeaten Isaac Munoz Gutierrez last July in Detroit. A native of Saginaw, MI, Franklin was coming off a pair of close and thrilling decision losses to former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua and top contender Dillian Whyte in his previous two outings.

Against Vargas, Franklin will be coming back after a 10-month layoff and looking to continue working his way back into contention.

“I want to show the world the new Jermaine,” said Franklin during a break in training. “I have some new smoke to show boxing fans. I learned so much after the Joshua fight. I must trust myself and my skills. My team told me, ‘If you want the belt, you have to go for it.’ You will see a new Jermaine. I promise that.”

Franklin says the hometown crowd will be all the fuel he needs for a spectacular performance.

“I’m so hyped to fight in front of my family and friends. I get a chance to come home and give my family a welcome-home knockout. I have been to some great places to fight but nothing comes close to fighting at home in front of family.”

The 2021 U.S. Amateur Welterweight National Champion, 24-year-old Pagan turned pro in January 2022. Showing steady improvement, Pagan was last seen in October, when he scored a unanimous six-round decision over respectable veteran Braulio Rodriguez at Motor City Casino in Detroit. 

Reminiscent of the acclaimed ShoBox series, Pagan says taking on fellow undefeated Hilley in a “Someone’s 0 will Go” matchup this early in his career is a significant risk, but also a chance to increase his growing reputation at 140 pounds.

“I’m very excited to be fighting in the co-feature of Big Time Boxing in Detroit. I cannot wait to show the world what Joshua Pagan can do. On May 23, I’m getting a victory and nothing less.”

Known in boxing circles as “The Hitman,” Roger Hilley hails from Chattanooga, Tennessee. The 29-year-old southpaw with power in both hands and sound boxing fundamentals, was last seen winning the American Boxing Federation Inter-Continental Lightweight title with a unanimous decision over rugged gatekeeper Oscar Bravo last May. Before embarking on his now seven-year professional boxing career, Hilley amassed an amateur record of 97-20 and fought in the 2012 and 2016 Olympic trials. He has also worked in camps with Floyd Mayweather Sr. and “Money” Mayweather himself.

“I’ve been blessed with a good team and I’m very grateful for the opportunity to compete and showcase my skills in the Motor City,” said Hilley. “Opportunities like this don’t come very often for me, so believe me I will be taking full advantage. After May 23, fight fans will remember my name!”

The 23-year-old Smith made his pro debut in September 2021, winning the WBC’s inaugural Big Belt Championship by knocking out Ricky Evans in the first round. Smith would follow that triumph with a pair of knockouts in November 2021 and May 2022, before winning a unanimous decision over Devontae McDonald last August. The Kronk Gym-trained middleweight prospect was most recently seen taking a wide unanimous decision over Argentina’s Rolando Wenceslao Mansilla in the inaugural “Big Time Boxing USA” event in February.

While it’s far too early to make binding proclamations, the 6’ 2” Smith has already been generating plenty of online buzz as the next coming of the legendary Detroiter Thomas “Hitman” Hearns. While his opponent, along with Al Mashhadi, and Quintero’s are still TBA, Smith says he’s just focused on the task at hand and not worried about the labels that fans are putting on him.

“I don’t know too much about my next opponent,” admitted Smith. “I just focus on myself and what I’m doing inside and outside of the gym. It’s always been me vs. me, and at this point in my career, things are getting more and more serious. I’m ready to take on bigger challenges and go to the next level. I’m just staying humble through it all and working very hard to prepare myself for those moments.”

This will be the third boxing event at Wayne State Fieldhouse, the home to the Detroit Pistons’ G-League affiliate, the Motor City Cruise, after “Big Time Boxing USA” debuted at the venue in February.

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ABOUT SALITA PROMOTIONS

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

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




CHAMBERLAIN CHALLENGES CIESLAK FOR EUROPEAN CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP ON JUNE 15TH AT SELHURST PARK

LONDON, UK (April 25, 2024) – Isaac Chamberlain will challenge Polish champion Michal Cieslak for the European Cruiserweight Championship on Saturday, June 15th at Selhurst Park, the home of Crystal Palace F.C, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

SIGN UP NOW FOR ACCESS TO PRE-SALE TICKETS AT BOXXER.COM

Cieslak vs Chamberlain is the first in a series of major undercard announcements confirmed for a blockbuster night of boxing celebrating 100 years of Selhurst Park and headlined by the epic all-British world title showdown between Chris Billam-Smith and Richard Riakporhe for the WBO World Cruiserweight Championship.

Chamberlain (16-2, 8 KOs) was named as mandatory challenger for Cieslak’s European crown following a dominant points victory over London rival Mikael Lawal for the British and Commonwealth Titles at York Hall in October.

The Brixton fighter will make the short trip across South London to Crystal Palace F.C’s Selhurst Park stadium for a second attempt at European glory having previously lost a points decision to Chris Billam-Smith when challenging for the belt in July 2022.

The 30-year-old will face the fierce punching Pole Cieslak (26-2, 20 KOs), a former two-time world title challenger, who captured the European Title with a knockout win over Dylan Bregeon in April 2023 and has since defended the strap with a stoppage victory over former European champion Tommy McCarthy.

Cieslak returns to London following his February 2022 battle with Lawrence Okolie for the WBO World Cruiserweight Title at the O2 Arena and is expected to bring a big Polish fanbase with him to Selhurst Park as he looks to work his way back into world title contention.

Isaac Chamberlain said: “We relinquished the British title to step up to world level. I’m grateful that this is a chance to be European Champion. This will show that I’m world class and destined to be champion of the world. A win over Cieslak puts me top five in all the governing bodies and on the cusp of a world title fight. To get this opportunity on such a big stadium event makes it even sweeter. I’m sure South London is going to turn out and Selhurst Park will be rocking on June 15th when I’m crowned the new European Champion.”

Michal Cieslak said: “My goal is to fight for the world championship again, but I am aware that defending my European title, especially against a dangerous and high rated fighter like Isaac Chamberlain brings me closer to that goal. This is another step for me to reach my dreams. If I want to be world champion, I have to win against rivals like Chamberlain.

“My debut on British soil ended in defeat, so now I will have extra motivation to get even. I’m maturing and making progress with every performance. My last fight ended quicker than I thought it would, so I’m hoping that in the showdown with Chamberlain, I’ll have the opportunity to have fun in the ring a little longer.”

BOXXER Founder and CEO Ben Shalom said: “We’re excited to add another huge cruiserweight clash to what’s going to be the must-watch boxing event of the summer. It’s a massive moment for Isaac Chamberlain as looks to claim European glory at home in South London against a formidable champion in Michal Cieslak. This is the first of a series of major undercard announcements for June 15th so make sure you sign up now for access to pre-sale tickets to secure your seat for an unmissable night of boxing at Selhurst Park.”

Mick Hennessy, Manager of Isaac Chamberlain, said: “I’m over the moon for Isaac. He’s had one of the toughest journeys I’ve seen in boxing, yet he doesn’t get the respect he deserves. Young men like him are told to abandon their dreams, yet here he is in a fight that will take him one step closer to a World Title. And when he eventually wins it, it really will be a Rocky-esque story!”

Fans attending the huge GAME ON! show will be part of history as boxing returns to Selhurst Park in its centenary year.

The epic Chris Billam-Smith vs Richard Riakporhe clash tops a huge bill in South London and kick-offs a huge summer of world-class sport with a blockbuster night of world championship boxing and celebrations.

A percentage of every ticket sold will be donated to the Palace For Life Foundation, the official charity of Crystal Palace F.C, which has been working with the community for over 25 years, helping young people grow through the power of sport, inspiring them to find a better path in life and to lead a healthier life.

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Integritas Property Group and HELL Energy.

Ticket details to be announced shortly.

Sign up now for access to pre-sale tickets at BOXXER.com




PPV.COM RETURNS TO THE RING LIVE STREAMING FOUR-BOUT CARD FEATURING THE CANELO – MUNGUÍA WORLD SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT TITLE RUMBLE!

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA (April 25, 2024) — PPV.COMwhich does not require a subscription, returns to the ring when it live streams to boxing fans, in the U.S. and Canada, an action-packed Cinco de Mayo weekend fistic fiesta, featuring the highly anticipated 12-round World Super Middleweight Championship battle between defending undisputed world champion Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez (60-2-2, 39 KOs), from Guadalajara, México, and the undefeated rising star Jaime Munguía (43-0, 34 KOs), from Tijuana, México, Saturday, May 4, beginning at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT. Canelo vs. Munguía is the first four-belt undisputed title fight between Mexican combatants, harkening back to the great México vs. México matchups of the past including classics such as Erik Morales vs. Marco Antonio Barrera, Carlos Zárate vs. Alfonso Zamora, and Rafael Marquez vs. Israel Vazquez.  The Canelo-Munguía world championship event will emanate live from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.  Priced at $89.99, it can be ordered by clicking here: PPV.COM: Canelo vs. Munguia.

 “Despite the clear identity logic of this — Mexican puncher-boxer vs. Mexican master boxer-puncher — Canelo, for quite a while, projected disinterest.  Now that Munguia has boosted his profile with a couple of recent notable wins, Canelo is interested.  Canelo’s proven chin makes him a solid favorite, but as last Saturday night demonstrated, boxing is still the theater of the unexpected,” said Hall of Fame broadcaster Jim Lampley, who will be co-hosting the exclusive viewer chat, in real time, during the PPV.COM Canelo-Munguía world championship event HD live stream. 

Joining Lampley on the live viewer chat will be award-winning journalist Lance Pugmire, and “Inside Boxing Live” podcast hosts Dan Canobbio and former WBO junior welterweight world champion Chris Algieri.  They will also be providing exclusive fight week commentary and reports from Las Vegas for PPV.COM‘s website and social platforms.

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

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

JIM LAMPLEY

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

LANCE PUGMIRE

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

About iNDEMAND and PPV.COM

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




EL REY REBEL FAST CHANNEL PARTNERS WITH OSCAR DE LA HOYA’S GOLDEN BOY PROMOTIONS TO UNVEIL SERIES OF CLASSIC FIGHTS BEGINNING FRIDAY, MAY 3

LOS ANGELES AND NEW YORK – April 24, 2024 – Fuse Media, the global leader of inclusive entertainment, expands its sports portfolio with a partnership between six-division, 10-time World Champion and current Chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions and the El Rey Rebel FAST Channel to air some of the most memorable fights in recent history as part of a new “Friday Night Fights” series launching on the channel Friday, May 3 at 8 PM ET/PT.

Kicking off Cinco De Mayo weekend, the new weekly series premieres on the 21st anniversary of the bruising May 3, 2003 fight between the Golden Boy himself, Oscar De La Hoya, and Luis Ramon “Yori Boy” Campas. Rounding out the special double-header launch that evening is the classic 2009 matchup featuring Manny Pacquiao vs. Ricky Hatton.

Other historic contests in the weekly series will include Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs. Ricky Hatton (2007); Manny Pacquiao vs. Marco A. Barrera (2007); and Saul Alvarez vs. Josesito Lopez (2012).

In addition, El Rey Rebel’s “Friday Night Fights” series will feature events from Fuse Media’s other sports television partnerships with premier Hispanic Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) sports franchise “Combate Global MMA” and “BYB Bare Knuckle Fighting.”

“The early part of the 21st century was a golden era of boxing across a number of weight divisions and fans can now go back in time to rewatch some of the best fighters of that time,” said Chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya. “Casual and boxing hardcores alike always tuned in when three guys named Pacquiao, Mayweather and De La Hoya were fighting and now they’ll have an opportunity to see all three in their prime on ‘Friday Night Fights.’”

“We couldn’t be more excited that 10-time world champion Oscar De La Hoya and his Golden Boy Promotions are bringing some of the most epic fights in modern boxing history to El Rey Rebel, said Miguel Roggero, Chairman and CEO of Fuse Media. “With these thrilling matches, ‘Friday Night Fights’ will be a cornerstone franchise for El Rey Rebel, unleashing the types of raw emotion and adrenaline that the channel’s growing number of viewers are craving.”

De La Hoya continues to champion the sport of boxing, promoting some of the biggest events in the sport including a massive PPV event featuring International star Ryan Garcia on April 20 and a historic Mexico vs. Mexico PPV clash with current client, former WBO Junior Middleweight Champion and current super middleweight world title contender Jaime Munguia in his upcoming May 4 fight against generational PPV star Saul “Canelo” Alvarez.

Below are more detailed descriptions of some of the classic fights included in the weekly “Friday Night Fights” series:

Oscar De La Hoya vs. Luis Ramon Campas

Following the dramatic knockout of rival Fernando Vargas, Oscar De La Hoya defended his unified WBA and WBC Junior Middleweight World titles against beloved Mexican fighter Luis Ramon “Yori Boy” Campas on Friday, May 3, 2003, the weekend ahead of Cinco de Mayo. De La Hoya gave Campas a beating, knocking his mouthpiece out so many times that Referee Vic Drakulich had to dock the challenger a point in round six. Oscar forced Drakulich’s hand in stopping the fight in the seventh round.

Manny Pacquiao vs. Ricky Hatton

“The Battle of East vs West” was a professional boxing match for the IBO and The Ring light welterweight championship between Manny Pacquiao from General Santos, Philippines and Ricky Hatton from Manchester, United Kingdom. The bout was held on May 2, 2009, at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada and drew 1.75 million pay-per-view buys. El Rey Rebel’s telecast airs one day after this matchup’s 15th anniversary.

Saul Alvarez vs. Josesito Lopez

This matchup on September 15, 2012 showed the world Saul Álvarez’s size and experience in the boxing ring. Alvarez knocked Josesito Lopez down in the second, third, and fourth rounds en route to stopping him in the fifth round after referee Joe Cortez determined he was taking too much punishment.

Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs. Ricky Hatton

Billed as “Undefeated,” the event on December 8, 2007 was a boxing superfight at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Reigning WBC and Ring Magazine Welterweight World Champion Floyd Mayweather Jr. and reigning Ring Magazine Super Lightweight World Champion Ricky Hatton. The fight was for Mayweather’s WBC & The Ring welterweight titles, which Mayweather successfully defended, defeating Hatton by TKO in the tenth round.

Marco A Barrera vs. Manny Pacquiao

Manny Pacquiao vs. Marco Antonio Barrera II, billed as “Will to Win,” was a super featherweight boxing match on October 6, 2007, at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas that was distributed by HBO PPV. Barrera came out smarter in this fight as he survived up to the final round, but Pacquiao easily outboxed him throughout the contest. Pacquiao defeated Barrera via unanimous decision, with two judges scoring the bout 118–109, whereas the third scored it 115–112.

El Rey Rebel is available on The Roku Channel, Freevee, Canela, TCL, Fuse.tv and on Fuse+ for subscribers who sign up for the platform or authenticate through their current TV provider.

ABOUT EL REY REBEL

El Rey Rebel sets your rebellious, independent spirit on fire. The Latino-infused network showcasing a wide range of originals, iconic feature films, and TV series. Unleash your inner rebel with raw action, fearless fun and pure mayhem. We live for Kung Fu classics, martial arts, grindhouse, gritty crime, extreme sports and all the adrenaline fuel you can handle. Plus, we keep our fire lit for sci-fi, comics, horror and beyond.

ABOUT FUSE MEDIA

Fuse Media is a Latino-owned, global entertainment company, and the leader in creating and distributing inclusive, purpose-driven stories and experiences for and with culturally diverse young adults. With a portfolio of award-winning original content and a growing multiplatform global footprint, Fuse Media strives to authentically reflect the world of its young and diverse audience, pioneering a multicultural and creative destination. The Fuse Media family includes linear channels Fuse and FM (Fuse Music); subscription streaming service Fuse+; a rapidly growing roster of owned and operated diverse-focused FAST channels; Fuse Studios, its in-house production arm; Ignition Studios, a specialized production company defining the future of inclusive content; a growing branded content and live events business; and Fuse Media Culture Collective, a suite of partner-owned FAST channels that add to the company’s massive scale in reaching multicultural audiences.

ABOUT GOLDEN BOY

Golden Boy Promotions was established in 2002 by current Chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya, an International Hall of Famer and a 10-time World Champion in six divisions. Golden Boy is the first Latino-owned boxing promotions company with a world-renowned reputation in organizing the largest and highest grossing events in the history of the sport. With more than two-decades as an industry leader and a lengthy roster of past, current and future world champions, Golden Boy will continue to leave an indelible mark in sports history.




WBA made an agreement with Riyadh Season

The World Boxing Association (WBA) made official an agreement with Riyadh Season this Wednesday during a press conference held in New York with the presence of the organization’s president, Gilberto Jesus Mendoza. 

The agreement opens the door to work hand in hand with promoters and different organizations with the intention of delivering more and better fights to fans around the world in an alliance that seeks to offer the best for the sport.

For the pioneer organization, the systematic development of boxing and the promotion of young talent will always be a priority, so this agreement will work hand in hand with Riyadh Season to support various projects such as the KO to Drugs, the WBA Future Champions and the WBA Academy, pillars of the WBA for its importance to the development of fighters and the sport in general. 

The WBA will continue working and reaching alliances with different actors in world boxing, always in search of the best for boxing, the fans and the fighters themselves.