By Norm Frauenheim –

GLENDALE, Ariz. – Everybody made weight. Still, there was controversy.

Call it scalegate.

At least, that’s how Liam Wilson and his Australian corner seemed to describe it Thursday after the official scale produced some surprising results at the official weigh-in for his junior-lightweight title fight with Mexican Emanuel Navarrete at Desert Diamond Arena Friday night on ESPN (10 pm ET/7 pm PT.)

The scale was all over the place. At least, it was for Wilson.

After 12 undercard fighters stepped on and off the scale with no complaints, the flap began. 

When Wilson first stepped on the scale, he looked down and saw 126.3 pounds. He was closer to featherweight, 126, than a junior-lightweight, 130. He looked once. Looked again. 

What he saw might have made a Jenny Craig-customer happy. But it prompted only suspicion in Wilson.

Navarrete, a two-time champion seeking to be only the 10^th Mexican fighter to win a world title at a third weight, tipped the scale at 129.2. No surprise there. But some heavy allegations soon followed.

Wilson alleged that the scale had somehow been manipulated.

“I believe they have realized he hasn’t made weight and they have tampered with the scales,” said Wilson (11-1, 7 KOs), a big underdog to Navarrete, (36-1, 30 KOs) who still holds a featherweight title. “I was shocked because I haven’t been that light in the last 10 years.’’

His corner went on to say that there was no way the scale was accurate.

Wilson’s promoter, Matt Rose of No Limits, said there’s no way Wilson could have lost so much weight. Rose said Wilson tested the scale about an hour before the weigh-in.

“He weighed 129.5 (pounds),” Rose said. “Then he jumps on the scale for the official weigh in and he’s 126. So, they’ve changed the scale or done something. You can’t lose that much weight within an hour, sitting in a room.’’

As the ballroom cleared about an hour later, Wilson returned to the scale a couple of times. With a sweat shirt on, he said he was at 135. With the shirt off, he said he was at about 132.3.

Rose said Wilson didn’t drink a lot of water after the official weigh-in. He said he didn’t sit in a sauna before it.

Maybe not, but the noisy allegations have cooked up some noisy conspiracies.

“We believe Liam’s came in at 129 and Navarrete is over,’’ Rose said.

Scalegate, Wilson said, should eliminate Navarrete’s chance at winning the World Boxing Organization’s vacant belt. That, of course, would mean only he could win it.

“He shouldn’t be challenging for the title, Wilson said. “Something happened on those scales.”

Top Rank promoter Bob Arum had his own word for what happened.

“Bullshit,’’ Arum said. “No-one effed with the scales. He (Navarrete) made the weight, for Christ’s sake. Everyone else made weight and there weren’t any aberrations with the other fighters on the card.“It’s going to be a great fight. The Aussie is a talented fighter, but he has a handful in Navarrete, who I believe is something special.”

Photo Credit: Mikey Williams/Top Rank via Getty Images

  •  Emanuel Navarrete 129.2 lbs. vs. Liam Wilson 126.3 lbs
(Vacant WBO Junior Lightweight Title — 12 Rounds)

   •   Arnold Barboza Jr. 139.2 lbs vs. Jose Pedraza 138.7 lbs
(Barboza’s WBO Intercontinental Title — 10 Rounds)

•  Richard Torrez Jr. 222.2 lbs vs. James Bryant 253.4 lbs
 (Heavyweight — 6 Rounds)

(ESPN+, 7:15 p.m. ET/4:15 p.m. PT)

•    Andres Cortes 131.2 lbs vs. Luis Melendez 130.6 lbs
 (Junior Lightweight— 10 Rounds)

•  Nico Ali Walsh 159.8 lbs vs. Eduardo Ayala 160.9 lbs
 (Middleweight — 6 Rounds)

•   Lindolfo Delgado 142.1 lbs vs. Clarence Booth 142.4 lbs
 (Junior Welterweight — 8 Rounds)

•    Emiliano Fernando Vargas 133.4 lbs vs. Francisco Duque 135.4 lbs
 (Lightweight — 4 Rounds)

Los Angeles, CA (February 2, 2023) Fast-Rising, Undefeated Super Flyweight Star Daniel ‘Chucky’ Barrera, (2-0-1, 2 KOs), of Riverside, CA has signed an exclusive, long-term promotional contract with Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions, it was announced this morning.

This past Friday night, January 27, the 21-year-old Barrera shined under the bright lights with a first-round knockout of Victor Hernandez Martin at the Hollywood Fight Nights event held at the Quiet Cannon – Montebello Country Club and broadcast globally on UFC FIGHT PASS. The popular and all-action Barrera had the sold-out crowd on their feet from the opening bell.

“I’m very excited to announce this signing to 360 Promotions,” said Tom Loeffler. “Chucky has all the attributes of a future world champion and has become a very popular fighter in his two starts at our Hollywood Fight Nights events. Additionally, the response from UFC FIGHT PASS to his knockout victory last week was tremendous.”

“Our Superfly Series fights were some of the most memorable in recent years and ‘Chucky’ brings that same all-action style that made those events so memorable.”

Said Barrera, “I feel great about this signing. Tom and his Team have been terrific to work with on these last two fights and I love the plan they have for my career.”

Barrera is managed by longtime boxing advisor Ray Chaparro. “Aligning Chucky with 360 Promotions is the best fit for his career. Tom Loeffler is a proven builder of world champions and superstars in boxing and we’re honored to be part of his team.” Barrera is trained by Al Franco of the Warzone Boxing Club.

Barrera joins a 360 Promotions stable which includes, “The First Lady”, Cecilia Braekhus, (37-2, 9 KOs),  World Ranked Junior Middleweight Serhii ‘El Flaco’ Bohachuk, (22-1, 22 KOs), Fast-Rising Irish Star ‘King’ Callum Walsh, (5-0 4 KOs), Super Welterweight Brian Ceballo, (13-1, 7 KOs) Undefeated Featherweight Omar Trinidad, (11-0-1, 9 KOs) and Undefeated Light Heavyweight Umar Dzambekov, (3-0, 2 KOs).

About UFC FIGHT PASS^®:

UFC FIGHT PASS^® is the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. Since launching in 2013, UFC FIGHT PASS is now available in more than 200 countries and territories. UFC FIGHT PASS provides its members with unlimited access to live UFC FIGHT PASS Prelims; live mixed martial arts and combat sports from around the world; original series and historical programming; special features; behind-the-scenes content; in-depth interviews; and up-to-the minute reports on the world of combat sports. UFC FIGHT PASS subscribers also have 24/7 access to the world’s largest fight library, featuring more than 20,000 bouts from dozens of combats sports organizations, as well as every fight in UFC history. Fight fans can access UFC FIGHT PASS on personal computers, iOS and Android mobile devices, Apple TV, Xbox One, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Sony TVs with Android TV. For more information, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com or @UFCFightPass on Twitter, and Instagram and on Facebook at facebook.com/ufcfightpass.

About 360 Promotions:

During 2017, Tom Loeffler founded 360 Promotions to provide an additional platform for boxers to showcase their talents. 360 Promotions produced the acclaimed ‘Superfly’ series giving exposure to tremendous talents in the lighter divisions including world champions. In 2018, 360 Promotions launched the Hollywood Fight Nights series at the Avalon Nightclub in Hollywood, CA. Hollywood Fight Nights is billed as the VIP boxing experience which provides a platform for rising boxers to develop their talents as future champions.

About Tom Loeffler:

Tom Loeffler has worked in the boxing industry for over 30 years. He started by successfully managing numerous world champions and from that experience, in 2003 he founded K2 Promotions with Wladimir and Vitali Klitschko, enabling them to take control of their careers. K2 Promotions holds the record for having promoted the most heavyweight world title fights this century while promoting all the world championship fights of the Klitschko brothers. Loeffler brought the Spotlight to the Flyweight division launching the Superfly Series on HBO that highlighted stars including Roman “Chocolatito” Gonzalez, Juan Francisco Estrada, Kazuto Ioka, Srisaket Sor Rungvisai and Carlos Cuadras. The Superfly series changed the economics for those fighters and the entire division. Loeffler is best known for his work with Gennadiy ‘GGG’ Golovkin, securing his HBO debut in 2012 and then strategically building him into an international superstar, selling out arenas such as Madison Square Garden in New York City, T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, The Forum in Los Angeles, and The O2 in London. He secured sponsorship deals for ‘GGG’ with global brands such as Jordan Brand, Hublot, Tecate, Chivas, and Bijan. Loeffler has also worked with Hall of Fame fighters Shane Mosley, James Toney and Laila Ali in addition to former Undisputed Welterweight World Champion Cecilia Braekhus along with former WBC Featherweight World Champion Kevin Kelley as well as promoting the US debut of Pound-for-Pound great Naoya Inoue on September 9, 2017 at the first Superfly event in Carson, CA and broadcast on HBO.

JOE JOYCE WILL defend his WBO Interim World Heavyweight title against the Chinese giant Zhilei Zhang at the Copper Box Arena on Saturday, 15 April, live on BT Sport.

It will be a first defence of the belt for the ‘Big Juggernaut’ Joyce, 15-0 (14 KOs), who put himself first in line for a shot at the full WBO title with a thrilling victory over Joseph Parker in September of last year in Manchester.

Tickets for the showdown between Joyce and Zhang on Saturday, 15 April at the Copper Box Arena go on sale at 11am on Wednesday, 15 February from ticketmaster.co.uk. Fans are encouraged to sign-up for Ticket Alerts to receive the ticket link directly to their inbox ahead of tickets going on sale.

With the current unified champion Oleksandr Usyk expected to fight for the status of undisputed against WBC ruler Tyson Fury this year, the 37-year-old Joyce will bolster his own heavyweight credentials by taking on the 6ft 6″ southpaw who resides in Bloomfield, New Jersey.

‘Big Bang’ Zhang, 24-1-1 (19 KOs) last saw action over in Jeddah in August when he fought in an IBF final eliminator against the Croatian Filip Hrgovic. The 39-year-old was declared the loser via the judges’ scorecards, but many commentators believed him to have won after dominating the early stages of the fight.

The Chinese fighter now gets the opportunity to put himself in the world title frame once again on what will be a first professional visit to the capital for the southpaw.

“It is a great fight,” reacted Joyce to his first defence being set. “He had a tough fight against Hrgovic but I thought he won the fight. Zhang is a big, strong southpaw who is massive, and he has been to the Olympics and all that. So, he has the experience and I think it will be a great fight.

“He bangs so I will have to watch out for it. As Hrgovic and I have a similar style, they had a great fight, so when we fight it should be entertaining.

“It will be carnage in the centre of the ring! I have lost my temper a few times in sparring and once was against a come-forward southpaw who was trying to knock me out. It was an exciting spar.

“I think with me and Zhang there will be real heavy punches exchanged and I am sure it will be a good fight. It will be a good preparation for Usyk or Fury, plus I haven’t fought a southpaw since I won the Commonwealth title against Lenroy Thomas.”

WATCH Dev Sahni’s EXCLUSIVE interview with Joe Joyce discussing The Juggernaut’s next opponent.

“It’s a new chapter in my career,” Zhilei Zhang added on the crunch heavyweight clash at the Copper Box. “I am always up for the challenge and when the opportunity rings the bell. Joe Joyce and I share a lot in common – we both are Olympic silver medalists, both are big punchers, and are nearly the same size. This is going to be an explosive, epic and tremendous fight.

“I want to thank my team and Joyce’s team for putting this together. I want all my fans in UK to show up and enjoy the event. Can’t wait to get in the ring on April 15th.”

“This is another cracker of a card that should be in keeping with the special night we all just enjoyed at Wembley,” said promoter Frank Warren. “We want to keep Big Joe busy while the heavyweight title scene unfolds but there can be no easy touches in a defence of his WBO Interim title. Zhilei Zhang is anything but an easy touch, he is a formidable powerhouse who can consider himself unlucky not to be still an unbeaten contender following his fight with Filip Hrgovic last year.

“Zhang being a southpaw ticks a significant box for Joe, with Usyk being a left-hander and Tyson carrying the ability to adopt either stance. That is what we want next for Joe and hopefully it will be a huge all-British collision against Tyson.”

“This is a great fight for boxing and a great opportunity for Zhilei,” said Terry Lane, Zhang’s manager. “Once again, he takes on a challenge that many are running from. There will be fireworks in London on 15 April.”

The undercard will be announced in due course with a host of Queensberry’s established and rising stars to be added to the bill.

Tickets for the showdown between Joyce and Zhang on 15 April at the Copper Box Arena on Saturday, 15 April go on sale at 11am on Wednesday, 15 February from ticketmaster.co.uk. Fans are encouraged to sign-up for Ticket Alerts to receive the ticket link directly to their inbox ahead of tickets going on sale.

Erik Bazinyan remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Alantez Fox in a super middleweight clash at The Montreal Casino in Montreal, Canada.

Bazinyan, 167 lbs of Montreal, won by scores of 98-92 twice and 96-94 and is now 29-0. Fox, 16.5 lbs of Upper Marlboro, MD is 28-4-1.

Gabriel Gollaz Valenzuela destroyed Yves Ulysses Jr. in just 52 seconds of their 10-round junior welterweight bout.

With both guys throwing on the inside, Valenzuela uncorked a vicious uppercut to the jaw that froze Ulysses as he plummeted to the canvas. Ulysses got up, but his legs were shaky, and the bout was stopped.

Valenzuela, 139 lbs of Jalisco, MEX is 26-3-1 with 16 knockouts. Ulysses, 140 lbs of Montreal is 22-3.

Alexander Gaumont remained undefeated with a first round stoppage over Carlos Gallego Montijo in a middleweight bout.

In round one, Gaumont landed a big left hook that put Montijo down. With Montijo down, Gaumont landed some vicious punches, and the bout was stopped at 2:26.

Gaumont, 160 lbs of Buckingham, QUE is 7-0 with five knockouts. Montijo, 161.5 lbs of Monterrey, MEX is 8-5.

Christopher Guerrero remained undefeated with a third round stoppage over Edwin Villareal Flores in a six-round welterweight bout.

In round three, Guerrero dropped Flores with a body shot. Moments later, it was a left hook that put Flores down again. Guerrero ended the fight by putting Flores down with a prefect timed 1-2, and the fight was stopped at 2:49.

Guerrero, 149 1/2 lbs of Montreal is 6-0 with two knockouts. Flores, 147 lbs of Tepic, MEX is 3-1-1.

Avery Martin Duval stopped Eduardo Mota Garcia in round three of their six-round junior lightweight bout.

In round three, Duva landed a snapping left hook that sent Garcia to the canvas. Garcia got up but was stumbling around, and the fight was stopped at 1:51.

Duval, 132 lbs of Montreal is 9-0-1 with five knockouts. Garcia, 129.5 lbs of Mexico City, MEX is 7-2-1.

Wilkens Mathieu made a successful pro debut with a first round stoppage over Zsolt Birkas in a four-round super middleweight fight.

In round one. Mathieu dropped Birkas with a short right. Mathieu dropped Birakas for a second time in the round with a left uppercut. Mathieu dropped Birkas for a third time in the round, and the fight was stopped at 2:49.

Matieu, 164 lbs of Quebec City, CAN is 1-0 with one knockouts. Birkas, 162 1/2 lbs of Budapest, HUN is 0-1-1.

Australia’s rising Heavyweight star Justis Huni (7-0, 4 KOs) has signed a multi-year promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing.
 
The 23-year-old from Brisbane is ranked at No.14 in the world with the WBO and becomes Matchroom’s latest recruit from Down Under, joining a growing stable that boasts IBF Bantamweight World Champion Ebanie Bridges, 22-0 Heavyweight contender Demsey McKean, Featherweight sensation Skye Nicolson, WBO Global Super-Lightweight Champion Liam Paro, WBA Intercontinental Super-Lightweight Champion Stevie Spark and multi-division titlist Brock Jarvis. 
 
After capturing a bronze medal at the 2019 World Championships, Huni joined the paid ranks in October 2020, picking up the Australian Heavyweight Title on his professional debut by stopping Faiga Opelu in seven rounds at the Fortitude Music Hall. ‘JPH’ halted Arsene Fosso in four rounds at the same venue two months later in the first defence of his Australian Title.
 
Huni racked up three wins from three fights in 2021, knocking out Jack Maris in one round at the Gold Coast Convention Centre in April before outpointing Christian Ndzie Tsoye in the second defence of his Australian Title at the Aware Super Theatre in Sydney a month later. He became the first man to defeat Paul Gallen when he battered the former rugby league star before stopping him in the final round of their clash at Sydney’s ICC Exhibition Centre. 
 
Huni captured the vacant IBF Pan Pacific, WBO Oriental and Oriental & Pacific Boxing Federation Titles by decisioning Joseph Goodall over ten rounds at the Nissan Arena in Nathan in June 2022. He defended those titles against New Zealand’s Kiki Toa Leutele at the same venue last November, outpointing the Kiwi over ten rounds to set up a huge 2023. 
 
“I’m extremely proud to announce I’ve signed with the world’s premier promoter,” said Huni. “Many thanks to Mick and Fran at Tasman Fighters. Let’s get it!”
 
Eddie Hearn added: “I’m delighted to welcome Justis Huni to the Matchroom Boxing team. Justis has already become one of the biggest names in Australian boxing and is ranked in the top 15 but now we look forward to boxing him around the World and leading him to a shot at the World Heavyweight title. The signing also continues to strengthen our Australian roster with more additions expected in the coming months, we look forward to our return to this important market in the first half of 2023.”
 
You can follow Huni’s journey on Instagram: justis_huni

GLENDALE, Ariz. (Feb. 1, 2023) — The Top Rank on ESPN 2023 schedule continues with a star-studded bill FRIDAY evening at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona.

The main event is a battle for the vacant WBO junior lightweight world title, as Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete (36-1, 30 KOs) seeks to become a three-weight world champion against Australian upstart Liam Wilson (11-1, 7 KOs).

The 10-round junior welterweight co-feature sees former two-weight world champion Jose “Sniper” Pedraza (29-4-1, 14 KOs) attempt to end the unbeaten run of top contender Arnold Barboza Jr. (27-0, 10 KOs). In the ESPN-televised opener, heavyweight U.S. Olympic silver medalist Richard Torrez Jr. (4-0, 4 KOs) battles James Bryant (6-2, 4 KOs) in a six-rounder.

Navarrete-Wilson, Barboza-Pedraza, and Torrez-Bryant will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m ET/7 p.m. PT. 

The undercard — streaming live and exclusively on ESPN+ at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT — features middleweight prospect Nico Ali Walsh (7-0, 5 KOs) against Phoenix native Eduardo Ayala (9-2-1, 3 KOs) in a six-rounder and lightweight phenom Emiliano Fernando Vargas (2-0, 2 KOs) against Francisco Duque (1-1) in a four-rounder.

At Wednesday’s press conference, this is what the fighters had to say.

Emanuel Navarrete

“For me and my team, being a three-division world champion will be the culmination of yet another goal in my career. We know that it won’t be easy. But, by doing that, I’ll feel that I have done something good in my career, and I’ll be satisfied with what I have achieved in my 10 years as a professional boxer.”

“My team and my corner have been fundamental to my development. They are people who are very humble. My family is very humble and reserved. More than being humble, it’s a way of life. I appreciate that part of me, and I always try to be a better person.”

“Liam Wilson comes with a strong desire to win the world title. And that’s why I’ve been focused on him 100 percent.”

Liam Wilson

“This is a chance to fulfill my dream and become a world champion. I’ve done 17 years of hard work for this moment. I’ve put in a lot of hard work. I’ve fought whoever they’ve put in front of me. I’m ready for Friday night.”

“I’ve taken one hard fight after another. Against Matias Rueda, I fought with one hand. I broke my hand midway through the fight. But I showed my resilience. The fight proved to myself, my country and the world that I have what it takes to become world champion and that I have to be in those fights.”

“This means everything. This is what me, my team, my promoter, my manager and my trainers have worked for. We’ve taken the risks and challenges, and I know that on fight night I have a tough fight ahead of me. Navarrete is a great champion, but I do plan on giving him the fight of his life. I’m going to win.”

Arnold Barboza Jr.

“We’ve been training really hard. We have a very tough fight in front of us. We are not looking past this fight. For this camp, we went back to the drawing board. We’ve seen our mistakes. We’ve been training hard, and we’re ready.”

“This is no question the biggest test of my career. We have nothing but respect for Pedraza and everything he’s done. We’re looking forward to this fight. It’s going to be a great fight. I’m looking forward to testing myself, and it’s going to bring out the best of me.”
 
“We trained at high altitude at Big Bear. Camp started there. My father did a great job of putting a plan together and bringing in the sparring partners that we needed. We’re ready to go.”

Jose Pedraza

“Barboza is a great boxer. He is an elite boxer. By beating him, I will position myself towards a world title opportunity.”
 
“What is most important to me is to be able to create new fans, international fans as well. Wherever you go, those fans will recognize you and admire you. That makes one feel great. When it comes to my family, my family is everything. The first thing I do after finishing a fight is to be with my family.”
 
“I’m the kind of boxer who is always underestimated, but that’s a motivation to shut mouths.”

Richard Torrez Jr.

“I switched it up a little bit. I have some really good coaches at the Olympic training center. Billy Walsh, who is an Olympic head coach, and my dad. They communicate really well. There’s nothing like being up in the altitude, getting some training with a lot of elite guys. Being able to be there and get conditioned was really great.”

Nico Ali Walsh

“It’s tough to say who is my toughest opponent because everyone shows up differently come fight night. So, we will see. I don’t know if the crowd will be on his side. People like you when you’re winning. So, if you’re doing well, then the crowd will cheer for you.”

“Boxing is tough. It’s a love-hate relationship because obviously I love boxing. I see the outcomes of my work and it’s great. But it’s very tough. It’s not fun going through training camp. That kind of stuff is not fun. But the fight days make it worth it, and that’s what I’m looking forward to.”

Eduardo Ayala

“I really thought this would be at Madison Square Garden or Las Vegas. But when they told me it was going to be in [my home state of] Arizona, a weight was lifted off my shoulders. It’s just amazing being here.”
 
“I look at this like it’s just my next fight on my road. The ‘Ali’ last name is definitely a plus. It’s the fight of my life. In boxing, anything can change with just one fight. Regardless, it is a great last name, but I make things so that it has less pressure on me.”
 
Emiliano Fernando Vargas

“I’m blessed to be here. This is another opportunity to showcase my skills. I’m excited. There’s nothing like Arizona fights. I know my father fought down here. Arizona has amazing fans, so I can’t wait to feel that emotion. I’m pumped and ready to go. I’m ready for another statement victory.”

Friday, February 3

 ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT)

 
Emanuel Navarrete vs. Liam Wilson, 12 rounds, Vacant WBO Junior Lightweight World Title

Arnold Barboza Jr. vs. Jose Pedraza, 10 rounds, Barboza’s WBO Intercontinental Junior Welterweight Title

Richard Torrez Jr. vs. James Bryant, 6 rounds, Heavyweight

ESPN+ (6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT)

Andres Cortes vs. Luis Melendez, 10 rounds, Junior Lightweight

Xavier Martinez vs. Yohan Vasquez, 10 rounds, Junior Lightweight

Top Rank Boxing on ESPN presented by AutoZone:Navarrete vs. Wilson will be live this Friday, February 3 at 10:00 p.m. ET/ 7:00 p.m. PT on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+. The event takes place at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona.

The main event features Mexican star Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete and Australian contender Liam Wilson fighting for the vacant WBO junior lightweight world title. Navarrete (36-1, 30 KOs) is one of the sport’s premier offensive fighters and is looking to become a three-division world champion as he battles Wilson (11-1, 7 KOs) the No. 3 junior lightweight contender. Wilson has never fought outside his home country but is coming to the U.S. in hopes of a major upset.
 
In the 10-round junior welterweight co-feature, Arnold Barboza, Jr.  (27-0, 10 KOs) hopes to earn a career-best victory against Jose “Sniper” Pedraza (29-4-1, 14 KOs), a former two-weight world champion.

In a six-round heavyweight special feature, Richard Torrez Jr. (4-0, 4 KOs), who captured a silver medal for Team USA at the Tokyo Olympics, will battle James Bryant (6-2, 4 KOs).

The undercard action includes many of Top Rank’s burgeoning talents such as Andres “Savage” Cortes (18-0, 10 KOs) taking on Puerto Rican knockout puncher Luis Melendez (17-2, 13 KOs) in a junior lightweight tilt, and undefeated middleweight prospect Nico Ali Walsh (7-0, 5 KOs), grandson of Muhammad Ali, taking on Eduardo Ayala (9-2-1, 3 KOs) in a six-rounder. In a four-round lightweight attraction, Emiliano Fernando Vargas (2-0, 2 KOs), son of former junior middleweight champion Fernando Vargas, will face Francisco Duque (1-1).

ESPN’s Joe Tessitore will call the action ringside with Hall of Famers Andre Ward and Timothy Bradley, Jr. as analysts; Mark Kriegel and Bernardo Osuna will serve as reporters.

ESPN+, ESPN App Boxing Content: Live and Upcoming, On Demand, Studio Shows, Archives

• Top Rank: Real TimeGo all-access with top fighters throughout fight week as they work their way to fight night with Real Times’s Navarrete vs. Wilson available daily throughout fight week.
• Boxing
• Top Rank
• State of Boxing
• Max on BoxingMax Kellerman hosts a 30-minute series weighing in on key boxing news and providing insights on the sport’s top fighters and upcoming events
• Who Do U Fight 4?Get to know the next generation of Top Rank stars and learn what drives them

ESPN.com

• Out Thursday: Coppinger’s mailbag– What can we expect from Navarrete this week?

Follow @ESPNRingside: Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok    

Saturday, February 3 (All Times ET)

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. 

About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 24.3 million subscribers. Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $9.99 a month (or $99.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices).

LONDON – February 1, 2023 – The long anticipated U.K. debut of Boxing Hall of Famer Floyd “Money” Mayweather will be available to fans on pay-per-view through the Zeus Network as the FrontRow Fight Series presents “Royal Pain” headlined by Mayweather’s exhibition clash against pro MMA fighter and “Geordie Shore” star Aaron “The Joker” Chalmers on Saturday, February 25 from the famed O2 Arena in London.

Tickets for the live event can be purchased HERE through AXS.com and begin at £53.50 a ticket (including fees). Mayweather will compete in front of the rabid U.K. boxing fans for the first time as he continues to take his talents worldwide following exhibitions in Japan and Dubai. Mayweather has spent time in the region throughout his career and famously defeated British superstar Ricky Hatton by TKO in 2007.

For more information on the Zeus Network, visit https://www.thezeusnetwork.com/. The event is presented by FrontRow entertainment, who have been behind Mayweather’s last three exhibition appearances. Additional bouts and event information will be announced leading up to fight night.

#         #         #

About FrontRow:

The FrontRow Entertainment team has more than 20 years of experience in the entertainment industry. Founder Keane Anis has been organizing all kinds of events, sporting events, concerts, beach parties and activations for celebrity tours, meet and greets and appearances with names such as Floyd Mayweather, N.E.R.D and Pharrell Williams, Usher, Chris Brown, Ne-Yo, Kelly Rowland, Shaquille, TGT, Rick Ross, T-Pain, Young Thug, Rich Homie Quan, Ty Dolla Sign, Tyga, Redman and Method Man, Ja Rule and Ashanti and P Square are few celebrities that are past and present FrontRow clients. They have also created the FrontRow Fight Series, delivering blockbuster boxing events around the world. Follow them on Instagram at @keane_frontrow and @frontrowfightseries, and on TikTok @frontrowfightseries.

(Jan. 31, 2023) — Undefeated super middleweight contender Erik Bazinyan, ranked in the top 10 by all four major sanctioning organizations, returns in a 10-round main event this Thursday, Feb. 2, against American veteran Alantez Fox at Casino de Montréal in Montreal, Canada.

Bazinyan, a 10-year-pro, hopes a victory over the 6-foot-4 Fox moves him closer to a world title opportunity.

Bazinyan-Fox 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 (28-0, 21 KOs) has spent his entire pro career in Canada after moving from Armenia at 16. Promoted by Camille Estephan’s Eye of the Tiger, Bazinyan returns to action following last June’s unanimous decision over former world title challenger Marcelo Esteban Coceres. Bazinyan rose the ranks by defeating a host of seasoned veterans, including Alan Campa, Saul Roman and Scott Sigmon. Fox (28-3-1, 13 KOs) has more experience fighting world-level talent, as he is coming off a fourth-round TKO defeat in December 2021 to David Morrell for a secondary world title. Before the Morrell loss, he had a three-bout unbeaten streak.

In other streaming action from Montreal:

• In a battle of slick boxing versus unrelenting pressure, Yves Ulysse Jr. (22-2, 12 KOs) steps up against Mexico’s Gabriel Gollaz Valenzuela (25-3-1, 15 KOs). Ulysse, from Montreal, has won four bouts since a close loss to Ismael Barroso. Valenzuela impressed last May on the Canelo Alvarez-Dmitry Bivol undercard, trading knockdowns with then-unbeaten contender Montana Love before dropping a razor-thin decision.
   
• Canadian middleweight prospect Alexandre Gaumont (6-0, 4 KOs) aims to extend his knockout streak to three against Carlos Gallego Montijo (8-4, 6 KOs).
   
• Raphael Courchesne (9-1, 4 KOs) returns from a nearly 19-month layoff to fight Diego Garduno Reyes (10-1-1, 4 KOs) in a six-round welterweight tilt.
   
• Welterweight prospect Christopher Guerrero (5-0, 1 KOs) makes his 2023 debut in a six-rounder against fellow unbeaten Edwin Villarreal Flores (3-0-1, 3 KOs).
   
• In a six-round junior lightweight bout, Avery Martin Duval (8-0-1, 4 KOs) looks to extend his winning streak to five against Eduardo Mota Garcia (7-1-1, 2 KOs), who has defeated two undefeated prospects in his last three outings.

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About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 24.3 million subscribers. Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $9.99 a month (or $99.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices).  

Lowell, MA (January 31, 2023) – Reyes Boxing Promotions put on an entertaining eight fight card Saturday, January 28 at the Lowell Auditorium in Lowell, MA.

Heavyweight Steve Vukosa of Quincy, MA improved to 14-1 (5 KO’s) with a workmanlike 10 round unanimous decision over Dorchester, MA native Donnie Palmer (12-3, 10 KO’s). Both fighters were patient and picked their spots, with Vukosa landing the more significant punches.

Scores were 99-91 twice and 98-92. 

Multi-time New England amateur champion Jaydell Pazmino had a successful pro debut as he knocked out veteran Stacy Anderson in two rounds. Working behind his jab, Pazmino was able to use effective combination punching and angles to keep Anderson on the defensive for most of the bout. Pazmino picked up the pressure in the second, hurting Anderson with a right hand to the body. A few seconds later, Pazmino landed a left hook that put Anderson down for the ten count.

Time of stoppage was 1:12.

In a crowd-pleasing fight, Lowell’s very own Gabriel Morales remained undefeated with a six round unanimous decision over Ryan Venable in a lightweight contest. Morales floored Venable in rounds 2 and 4, but the game Venable was resilient from bell to bell.

Scores of the bout were 59-53 and 58-54 twice.

With the win Morales improves to 6-0 (3 KO’s). 

Venezuelan featherweight Hegly Mosqueda’s US debut was an impressive one, as he improved to 23-0 (18 KO’s) with a 3rd round TKO over Ezequiel Tevez. Mosqueda dropped Tevez in the second with a perfectly timed counter right hand. In round 3, Mosqueda dropped Tevez with another right hand before closing the show with an uppercut to the body at 1:12.

Junior welterweight Harry Gigliotti of Newburyport, MA scored a hard-fought 8 round unanimous decision over a very durable and game Brandon Sandoval of Salem, MA. The fight saw both men ripping punches in the pocket, but Gigliotti got the better of the action. Sandoval however, refused to back down keeping the fight in the pocket. As Gigliotti and Sandoval traded blows in close quarters, the fans were on their feet cheering loudly for both fighters.

In the end, it was Gigliotti getting the win by scores of 79-73 and 78-74 twice. Gigliotti improved to 9-4 (3 KO’s) while Sandoval drops to 2-4 (1 KO). 

Springfield, MA based welterweight Carlos Gonzalez improved to 4-0 (4 KOs) with a first round knockout of Trevathan Milatz. Gonzalez scored three knockdowns, the final one putting Milatz down for the 10 count at 2:11.

Super middleweight Luke Iannuccilli improved to 5-0 (2 KO’s) with an entertaining 4 round unanimous decision over game veteran Sergio Castellano. It was a fight that was fought inside the pocket from almost start to finish, much to the delight of the crowd. Both combatants were content trading blows both to the body and head, but Iannuccilli got the better of the exchanges. In round five, the Methuen, MA native dropped Castellano, but Castellano beat the count. As action resumed, the fighters picked up right where they left off that had the crowd cheering wildly.

Scores were 60-53 twice and 59-54. 

Super bantamweights Alicia Pike (1-0-1) and River Tucker 0-1-1) fought to a highly spirited four round draw. Both fighters provided non-stop action for the duration of the bout, giving just as good as they got. It was tough to tell who got the better of the exchanges as all 3 judges saw the fight differently.

Scores were 40-36 (Tucker), 39-37 (Pike), and 38-38. 

“We had a great crowd of about 1100 fans and the fighters put on a great show,” said Mike Reyes of Reyes Boxing Promotions. “This was our second show at the Lowell Auditorium and we’re proud to call it our new home.”

A replay of the card is available on Reyesboxingtv.com

Reyes Boxing Promotions returns to the Lowell Auditorium June 24.

January 30, 2023, New York, New York – – Former world champion Heather “The Heat” Hardy will battle former Brazilian champion Taynna Cardoso in a eight-round super featherweight bout in the main event at Sony Hall, in the heart of Times Square, mid-town Manhattan, on Thursday, February 23.

In the co-feature, Brooklyn’s Frederic “French Revolution” Julan will clash with South Jersey’s Decarlo “3medno” Perez in an eight-round light heavyweight bout. Elon “El Leon” de Jesus will fight in a six-round super bantamweight contest and three additional fights will soon be added.

The February 23 event is being promoted by Boxing Insider is association with DiBella Entertainment.

Tickets, starting at $85 for General Admission are available HERE

“Very grateful to DiBella Entertainment and Boxing Insider for going out of their way to ensure me a slot on this show that will be honoring my late trainer, mentor, and papa, Hector Roca,” said Hardy. “The day before he died, we sat in his hospital room, me on the corner of the bed. He put his hand over mine and said ‘baby, they all think you past your prime, but you didn’t hit it yet. This is going to be your year’.  I’m ready and exited to start 2023 off right, here in front of all my NYC fans for papa.”

“This is on paper one of the best local New York cards in years,“ said Boxing Insider’s Larry Goldberg.

Heather Hardy (23-2, 4 KO’s), Brooklyn born and raised and former World Boxing Organization Featherweight Champion, will bring “The Heat” once again after headlining Boxing Insider’s promotional debut on October 13.  Heather is a graduate of John Jay College in Brooklyn, began boxing in the gym at age twenty-four and made her professional debut in 2012 at the tender age of twenty-eight. In 2014 she won the vacant WBC International super bantamweight title and in 2016 won the WBC International featherweight title. On October 27, 2018, Heather became world champion, winning the WBO featherweight title with a unanimous decision win over Shelly Vincent at Madison Square Garden. Heather lost the title the following September in a unified title fight to WBC World Champion Amanda Serrano in a clash of women boxing stars. Most recently, Heather won a unanimous decision against Calista Silgado on October 22. Taynnaa Cardoso (5-1, 1KO) from Jundiai, Sao Paulo, Brazil made her pro debut in 2017 and won the Brazilian featherweight title in just her second fight.

Frederic “French Revolution” Julan (12-2, 10 KOs) was born in Paris and now resides in Brooklyn. He made his pro debut in 2016 and won his first ten bouts. Julan is looking to rebound from two tough decision losses, most recently at Madison Square Garden. Decarlo “3medno” Perez (19-7, 6 KOs), from Atlantic City, is a former USA New Jersey State Super Middleweight Champion and a Jersey Shore fan favorite.  His last fight was a tough, majority decision loss to Nadim Salloum at Sony Hall in December.

Elon “El Leon” de Jesus (4-1, 3 KOs) from Dunkirk, NY, made his professional debut on December 18, 2020.  Elon will fight in a six-round bantamweight bout against Jesus Arturo “Chucho” Guzman (8-10, 5 KOs).

Streaming and additional match information will be announced shortly.

ABOUT BOXING INSIDER

Established in 1997 as a premier boxing news and information destination, Boxing Insider has recently transitioned into the promotional business.  This will be Boxing Insider’s third professional boxing promotion.  It has promoted one amateur boxing event and two professional events, on October 13 and December 21, both at Sony Hall, Times Square, New York, NY.

ONTARIO, CALIF. – January 31, 2023 – In a matchup of all-action, high-powered former world champions, hard-hitting star Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa will meet Filipino sensation Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo for the vacant Interim WBC Featherweight Title on Saturday, March 4 live on SHOWTIME from Toyota Arena in Ontario, Calif. topping a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will also feature the return of former unified world champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd as he takes on the power-punching Armando Reséndiz in the 10-round middleweight co-main event. Kicking off the telecast is an intriguing clash of unbeaten young middleweights as Amilcar Vidal and Elijah Garcia meet in a 10-round attraction.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, go on sale tomorrow, Wednesday, February 1 at 10 a.m. PT and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.com.

“Saturday, March 4 will be headlined by an explosive clash of exciting styles, as Brandon Figueroa and Mark Magsayo are sure to go toe-to-toe to secure their standing in the featherweight division,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Brandon looked spectacular in his featherweight debut last July, and Magsayo has the opportunity to regain his status after losing his title in a close fight last time out. With another certified action fighter in Jarrett Hurd stepping into the ring in the co-main event against the up-and-coming Armando Reséndiz, plus hungry young middleweights Amilcar Vidal and Elijah Garcia in the TV opener, the stage is set for a thrilling night live on SHOWTIME and at Toyota Arena in Ontario, California.”

The 26-year-old Figueroa (22-1-1, 17 KOs) was dynamic in his 126-pound debut, swarming and dominating Carlos Castro on his way to a sixth-round TKO on SHOWTIME in July 2021. The bout was his first since a 2021 Fight of the Year against Stephen Fulton Jr., which some observers thought ended in controversy after the majority decision loss for Figueroa. A native of Weslaco, Texas, Figueroa’s  relentless pressure and youthful enthusiasm helped him  become the first person to defeat former division champion Luis Nery in their championship clash on SHOWTIME prior to the Fulton fight. Figueroa added to his family’s legacy by capturing the WBC 122-pound world title against Nery, joining his brother Omar Figueroa Jr., who previously held the WBC lightweight world championship.

“I can’t wait to get back in the ring to do what I love,” said Figueroa. “I want to fight the best, so I’m very motivated to be up against a former champion at featherweight like Magsayo. I’m confident that we’re going to give the fans a great fight, because neither of us like to take a step back. This is my chance to really show what I’m capable of at 126 pounds and I’m just eager to dominate and prove it to the world.”

The Philippines’ Magsayo (24-1, 16 KOs) became the latest champion from the boxing-rich nation in January 2022 when he outpointed boxing’s then longest-reigning male world champion Gary Russell Jr. to capture the 126-pound title on SHOWTIME. Magsayo will look to move closer to regaining that title on March 4, after he lost a narrow split-decision to Rey Vargas last July, despite dropping Vargas in round nine. The 27-year-old earned his first title opportunity by knocking out former champion Julio Ceja in the 10^th round of a fight he trailed on the scorecards in August 2021. Magsayo is trained by Freddie Roach in Southern California and owns 12-round decision victories over Shoto Hayashi and Ramiro Robles, in addition to a sixth-round stoppage of former title challenger Chris Avalos.

“Figueroa and I both like to move forward, so everyone knows exactly what kind of fight this will be,” said Magsayo. “My goals are to give the fans the action they love and to regain my place in this division. I’m ready to face anyone they put in front of me. This is a true Mexican vs. Filipino style matchup, and I can’t wait to get back in the ring to perform once again.”

The 32-year-old Hurd (24-2, 16 KOs) unified the WBA and IBF 154-pound titles in 2018, dropping longtime champion Erislandy Lara in the final round to win a close decision in a fight that was the consensus 2018 Fight of the Year. The Accokeek, Md., native would go on to lose the titles in one of 2019’s best fights, dropping a decision to Julian Williams. Hurd first became champion in February 2017 when he stopped former champion Tony Harrison in the ninth round, before defending the title against another former champion in Austin Trout. Hurd will return to the ring having most recently dropped a narrow split-decision against tricky veteran Luis Arias in June 2021.  

“Y’all must’ve forgot, but I’m back to remind you what ‘Swift’ Jarrett Hurd is all about,” said Hurd. “I’m in a new weight class and I’m looking to dominate like I did at 154 pounds. I can’t wait to show everyone what I’ve been working on in the gym and display my talents on March 4. I know Reséndiz is going  to make the most of this opportunity, but I’m ready to make a big statement of my own.”

Reséndiz (13-1, 9 KOs) made a successful U.S. debut in April 2021, entering the fight with an eight-bout knockout streak before earning a decision victory over Quilisto Madera. A 23-year-old native of Nayarit, Mexico, he now fights out of Los Angeles. After dropping a decision to veteran Marcos Hernandez in September 2021, he returned this October to dominate Heber Rondon on his way to a second-round stoppage.

“I’ve been preparing very hard to take full advantage of the opportunity that I have in this fight,” said Reséndiz. “I have a great team in my corner and I know that they are getting the best out of my abilities. We’re all working toward the same goal and it’s going to result in a great fight for the fans. I’m fighting for my Mexican people and I’m not going to let them down.”

Born in Montevideo, Uruguay, Vidal (16-0, 12 KOs) now fights out of Las Vegas under the guidance of top trainer Bob Santos. The 26-year-old put together an impressive streak between November 2019 and November 2020, defeating three previously unbeaten fighters in a row, as he knocked out Zach Prieto on SHOBOX: The New Generation^®, Leopoldo Reyna and Edward Ortiz. Vidal followed that up with a decision victory over veteran contender Immanuwel Aleem in July 2021 on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, and has added three more triumphs since then, including most recently winning a unanimous decision over Gabriel Omar Diaz last July.

“I am very happy to be back on SHOWTIME for my fourth fight in the U.S.,” said Vidal. “I’ve already beaten two undefeated fighters in America and I’m confident this will be the third time I take another fighter’s ‘0’. I’m thankful to my new trainer Bob Santos and my whole team for this opportunity. I’m training in Las Vegas and looking forward to putting my punching power on full display.”

Fighting out of Phoenix, Arizona, Garcia (13-0, 11 KOs) closed out 2022 in December with his fourth victory of the year, a second round KO of Cruse Stewart that streamed live on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page. The 19-year-old has moved fast since turning pro in 2020 establishing himself as a rising prospect by knocking out his first six opponents and five of his last six.

“This fight is going to be a gateway for me,” said Garcia. “This is a great matchup on a big stage, and that just means more eyes and attention on me. I’m only 19 and I’m taking on an older undefeated fighter with more fights than I have. That just shows what kind of fighter I am. A win is going to open a lot of doors for me and soon everyone is gonna know what I can do.”

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

About TOYOTA ARENA

Toyota Arena, located in Southern California, built and owned by the City of Ontario, managed by SMG Worldwide, continues to win awards for the best entertainment venue in the region. The 225,000 square foot venue can accommodate capacities up to 11,000 for concerts, family shows, and sporting competitions. The arena features 36 luxury suites located on two levels and a continuous concourse hosting a variety of refreshment stands, merchandise kiosks, a VIP club and other fan amenities. Toyota Arena is proud to be recognized for cleaning and disinfecting to a higher standard to keep our space clean and safe for occupancy with a GBAC Star Accreditation. Toyota Arena hosts a variety of sporting competitions, concerts, family shows, special events, graduation ceremonies and community activities as well as private events. The Arena is home to Ontario Reign – AHL Hockey Team, and Empire Strykers – MASL Soccer Team and the Ontario Clippers – G league basketball team. Toyota Arena is the biggest and most modern arena within the region, an area with nearly 5 million people. It is located in the City of Ontario, California, on a 37-acre parcel located between Haven Avenue and Milliken Avenue, Fourth Street and the I-10 Freeway. For more information visit Toyota-Arena.com

QUINCY, Mass. (January 30, 2023) – The long journey for Indian welterweight Vaibhav Singh “Ahir Boxer” Yadav (9-2, 7 KOs) pays off February 18th as he makes his United States debut in a 6-round match on the “Turf War 4” card against William Parra Smith (4-13-1, 3 KOs), of Alaska.

The 27-year-old Yadav, a former WBC Asia Silver and Asian Boxing Federation welterweight champion, has relocated to Newton (MA), training at Nonantum Boxing Club under the guidance of highly respected trainer Marc Gargaro, managed by Nico Gargaro.

Team Yadev: (L-R) Manager Nico Gargaro, Vaihbav Singh Yadev and head trainer Marc Gargaro

“Turf War 4”, presented by Granite Chin Promotions, will stream live on BXNGTV.com from Melrose Memorial Hall in Melrose, Massachusetts.

In 2018, Yadav met Marc in New Delhi, India, at the World Amateur Championships. The Indian boxer introduced himself to Gargaro and he received an invitation to train in the U.S.

A year later, Yadav applied for a U.S. Visa after he captured the WBC Asia Silver title and trained for two weeks in 2020 at Nonantum Boxing Club to check out the gym, training methods and housing. “Ahir Boxer,” as he is known in the ring, then stayed an additional 2 weeks in New York before returning home to India.

“I really enjoyed that,” Yadav said about his U.S. visit. “In 2021, I returned for a 2-week training camp that ended up 4 weeks because of COVID. I live in Newton now, but I only go to the gym twice a day and then back to the house. I have learned that there are large Indian communities in Waltham and Lowell. Training here is totally different. First, it’s a lot colder, and there’s no snow in New Delhi. We do have a rainy season, but the winters are much different here than back home.

“We have really good amateur boxing in my home country, but not good pro boxing. Things here are so different than at home. Foods are much different, and training is too. It’s exhausting but I’m enjoying it here. I left my family to train here. I’ve been working on my mental health, too. I was disappointed in my performance during my first week of training here because of new training methods and my scheduling, but my second week was good.”

English is Yadav’s second language – Hindi is his first – and he is surprisingly well spoken. He learned English in school and from traveling to countries in which many people speak English.

A promotional free agent, Yadav has a career plan, which includes fighting his first world title shot in the United States rather than back home.

“I want to make my coaches and supporters proud,” Yadav noted. “I’ll turn 28 in March, and I want to fight 10 more years. The United States is every boxer’s dream. Boxing is big in the UK, but the Mecca of Boxing is the United States.”

“I think Vaibhav has great untapped potential, very good power and superb timing,” head trainer Marc Gargaro added. “Training in India has been challenging to find sparring and consistency training, but I think being here will fill in a lot of gaps and turn him into the complete fighter I envision him to be.”

Vaibhav Singh Yadav is living the dream!

In his 6-round main event, Massachusetts Middleweight Champion Anthony “The Gentle Savage” Andreozzi (4-2, 1 KO), fighting out of Swansea (MA), will make his first title defense versus challenger Jamer Jones (2-1, 2 KOs), of Pittsfield (MA).

Former New England Heavyweight Champion Justin “Crazy Train” Rolfe (7-4-1, 5 KOs), of Fairfield (ME) comes out of his brief 10-month retirement in the 6-round, co-featured event for the vacant USBF heavyweight title against Jonathan “Lethal” Gruber (3-1, 2 KOs).

Holbrook (MA) junior welterweight Mike “Bad Man” Ohan, Jr. (16-2, 9 KOs) is in his first scheduled 10-round fight against veteran Puerto Rican boxer Daniel Sostre in a rematch won by Ohan, Jr. in 2018 by way of a 6-round unanimous decision. Ohan, Jr. had an impressive performance this past December at famed Madison Square Garden, albeit in a loss to undefeated U.S. Olympian Tiger Johnson (7-0, KOs), in a match that was streamed live on ESPN+.

New Jersey welterweight Tyrone “Hands of Stone” Luckey (16-19-4, 12 KOs), the former ABF USA Mid-American super lightweight title holder, is also fighting on the undercard in a 6-round bout against Carlos Marrero III (4-8-3, 0 KOs), of Bridgeport (CT).

Tickets are on sale and priced (plus fees) at $70.00 (VIP Stage Seating), $60.00 (General Floor Seating) and $45.00 (General Auditorium Seating). Go online to purchase at https://granite-chin-promotions.ticketleap.com/ or from any of the participating fighters.

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

INFORMATION :

www,granite-chin-promotions.com

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

Twitter: @Granite_Chin

January 29, 2023, Panama City, Panama – – Luis Rodriguez, now a perfect 11 wins in 11 fights with 11 stoppages, won the World Boxing Association Continental Americas Super Middleweight title with a second-round knockout against Encarnacion “Demoledor” Diaz on Saturday, January 28 at Los Andes Mall, Panama City, Panama. 

Rodriguez knocked Diaz down in round two with a left hook, then delivered a flurry of punches that dropped him a second time.  Diaz could not recover while referee Guillermo Perez Pineda counted to ten and the fight was called at 3:00 of round two. The bout was scheduled for ten rounds.  

“This was a phenomenal opportunity and I made sure to take full advantage of it,” said Rodriguez. “I only want to fight the best and am here to stay. I will continue to work hard and stay fight ready for my next step.  If all goes well, Puerto Rico will soon be celebrating a new world champion in 2023.”

Rodriguez (11-0, 11 KOs) from Tao Alto, Puerto Rico, whose team includes renowned boxing attorney Tony Gonzalez and promoter, Rivalta Boxing, made his pro debut on June 11, 2021. His knockouts have come in rounds 2, 1, 4, 1, 2, 2, 1, 4, 3, and now 2 respectively. 

Encarnacion Diaz (15-3, 9 KOs) from San Jose, Costa Rico, entered Saturday on a three-fight win streak including two by knockout and one by decisive unanimous decision win.

“I want to thank my team for getting me this opportunity to start 2023 strong,” said Luis. “When-not if- I beat Diaz this weekend, I want to fight the best super middleweights and make my name known as one of the best in the division.  It is my time and time for young blood to carry this division and this sport. I fight for my family and to make all of Puerto Rico proud.”

Rodriguez’s advisor, Attorney Tony Gonzalez stated “This kid is the full package. He can box, slug and end the fight with one punch with either hand. We are planning to have Luis defend the title in Miami in March.”

Alexis Rocha earned a big fight by stopping late-replacement George Ashie in round seven of their 12-round welterweight bout at The YouTube Theater in Inglewood, California.

In round three, Rocha uncorked a vicious right hook that landed on the jaw and sent Ashie to the canvas. There was some furious exchanges that Rocha got the better of and he landed some good hooks to the head and thudding body shots.

In round six, Rocha was cut over his right eye from an accidental headbutt. In round seven. Rocha landed a perfectly timed right hook that deposited Ashie face-first on the canvas and the fight was over at 2:08.

Rocha, 146.4 lbs of Santa Ana, CA is 22-1 with 14 knockouts. Ashie, 146 lbs of Accra, GHA is 33-6-1.

“I wanted to make a statement,” said Alexis Rocha. “Crawford is next. But if that can’t happen, I want all the big names. I’m signed to the best promotional company in the world, and I know they’ll make it happen. He [Ashie] was a tough fighter, but I knew he wasn’t going to hang with me.”

Floyd Schofield Decisions Mercado

Floyd Schofield remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Alberto Mercado in a lightweight bout.

In round two, Schofield landed a hard right to the top of the head that put Mercado down.

Schofield, 134.8 lbs of Austin, TX won by scores of 100-89 on all cards and is now 13-0. Mercado, 134.8 lbs of Humacao, PR is 17-5-1.

“My feet hurt, but it was a good victory,” said Floyd Schofield. “To the fans, thank you for all the love and support, and next time I’ll definitely get that knockout. We want to fight Keyshawn Davis next.”

Melikuziev Stops Sierra in 3

Bektemir Melikuziev stopped Ulises Sierra in round three of their 10-round super middleweight bout.

In round two, Melikuziev was cut over the right eye from a punch. In round three, Melikuziev dropped Sierra with a straight left to the body. Late in the round, it was a hard straight left to the body that put Sierra down for good, and the bout was stopped at 2:59.

Melikuziev, 167.6 lbs of Indio, CA is now 11-1 with nine knockouts. Sierra, 167.4 lbs of San Diego, CA is 17-3-2.

“I’m happy that I just won and as I said before Gabe Rosado is the guy I’m looking for and if not him, anyone,” said Bektemir Melikuziev. “I’m ready. Just give me any 168-lb fight. Thank you to all of my supporters, we’re moving little by little. We’re getting closer to the title shot, we got another title today and we’re looking forward to the world championship.”

Oscar Collazo Stops Reyes in 5

Oscar Collazo stopped Yudel Reyes in round five of their 12-round WBO Minimumweight Elimination bout.

In round five, Collazo landed a big right hook that rocked Reyes back. Collazo followed up with a left and another right hook that put Reyes on the canvas. At the end of the round, Collazo landed another flush right hook that was followed by a straight left that put Reyes down again, and the fight was stopped at 2:59.

Collazo, 104.6 lbs of Villalba, PR is now 6-0 with four knockouts. Reyes, 104.2 lbs of Monterrey, MEX is 15-2.

“I feel super good. We did exactly what we wanted to do,” said Collazo. “If we went to the body, we then went back up and that’s how we made it happen. The knockout punch was the hook. We had been practicing since camp so I’m glad we made it happen. I want the champions next. Specifically, The WBA champion, Melvin Jerusalem. So, Melvin, if you’re listening, I want you.”

Artur Beterbiev remained completely perfect as he stopped Anthony Yarde to retain the IBF/WBC/WBO Light Heavyweight titles in action packed fight at The AVO Arena in London.

It was a fight full of action with each guy having success by landing some hard combinations. Each guy backed the other up at various times in the fight with rounds five and seven seeing terrific two way action.

At the end of round five, Yarde was cut under his right eye. During round six, Beterbiev was cut over his right eye. That did not bother Beterbiev as in round eight, Beterbiev landed a looping right to the top of the head that put Yarde on the canvas. With Yarde hurt, Beterbiev landed two more shots before Yarde’s corner stopped the fight at 2:01.

Beterbiev on Russia is 19-0 with 19 knockouts. Yarde of England is 23-2.

Beterbiev said, “Every fight is different. It’s a different preparation. And the fighter is different, too. I can’t say I did a very bad fight. But if I could do it again, I’d do it better. But I feel good. To be honest, I prepared for the all the punches he did. That’s why I could come back. It’s because we expected those punches.

“Everyone can punch hard at this level. And Anthony did, too. But he’s young. I turned into a professional when I was 28. He has time. I hope he does well in the future. I want [Dmitry] Bivol. Right now, it’s everything. In that fight, we’ll have four belts. It’s really good fight, I think.”

Maderna Shocks Itauma in 5

Ezequiel Osvaldo Maderna scored a big upset by stopping Karol Itauma in round five of their eight-round light heavyweight bout.

Maderna continuously landed a straight right hands on the listless southpaw Itauma, In round five, one of those right hands landed flush and dropped Itauma. Itauma did not attempt to beat the count and the fight was stopped at 1:04.

Maderna of Argentina is 29-10 with 19 knockouts. Itauma of England is 9-1.

Dalakian Decisions Jimenez to retain Flyweight belt

Artem Dalakian retained the WBA Flyweight title with a 12-round decision over David Jimenez in a battle of undefeated fighters.

In round five, Jimenez was cut over his right eye. The fight was close, but it seemed the constant pressure of Jimenez would get him the victory and the title. The judges saw differently as the scores read 116-112 and 115-113 for the defending champion.

Punch stats favored Jimenez as he landed 122 of 435 punches; Dalakian was 94 of 547.

Dalakian, 111.6 lbs of Kiev. UKR is now 22-0. Jimenez, 111.1 lbs of Costa Rica is now 12-1.

Andy Fletcher remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Darryl Sharp in a cruiserweight bout.

Fletcher won by a 60-54 score and is now 4-0.

Moses Itauma made a successful pro debut with a 22 second knockout of Marcel Bode.

Itauma is 1-0 with one knockout. Bode is 2-2.

LOS ANGELES, CA (January 27, 2023): Golden Boy Promotions announced today the signing of super welterweight prospect Eric Tudor (7-0, 6 KOs) to its coveted promotional banner. One of the most disciplined fighters the company has signed, Tudor is a boxer-puncher who’s foundational arsenal makes him a well-rounded pugilist. With over 200 amateur fights, the Romanian-born combatant was part of the Romanian National Team. Raised in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the 21-year-old also won the Silver Gloves and National PAL Boxing Championships here in the U.S. He has fought a number of times on Golden Boy Fight Night Series cards, impressing fans with his quick, knockout stoppages. 

“I’m excited to be a part of a great promotional company like Golden Boy and showcase my talent to the world on such a great platform,” said Eric Tudor. “I want to use this opportunity to show that I’m one of the best prospects in boxing.”

Continues Tudor,“Like many other fighters, my goal is to fight for a world title. Activity was a key factor for me when signing with a promotional company. I want to be in the ring as many times as possible and Golden Boy will make it happen.”

“We have been impressed by the raw talent we see in Eric Tudor,” said Chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya. “His skillset mixed with the Golden Boy tools to make a star, we expect for him to thrive under our promotional banner and one day become champion if he continues his steadfast commitment to be the best. No one can build fighters like we do, and we are excited to welcome Tudor to the Golden Boy Family.” 

NEWTOWN PA (January 26th, 2023)–On Saturday March 4th, RDR Promotions will present a massive night of boxing at The Newtown Athletic Club in Newtown, Pennsylvania.

The potential 16 bout card will be headlined by heavyweights Brian Howard and former world title challenger Junior Wright Squaring off in an eight-round bout.

Howard of Loganville, Georgia has a record of 15-5 with 12 knockouts. The 42 year-old Howard has wins over Yuwshua Zadok (1-0), Chris Stallworth (9-2), Alex Guerrero (12-0-1), Shawndell Winters (8-0), Carlos Negron (20-2). Howard is coming off la oss to Efe Ajagba on April 10, 2021 in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Wright of Evanston, Illinois is 19-4-1 with 16 knockouts. The 36 year-old Wright has victories over Nick Reader (3-0-1), Nick Kisner (12-0-1). On May 21, 2016, Wright challenged Beibut Shumenov for the WBA Cruiserweight title. Wright was stopped in 10 -rounds in a fight that took place in Las Vegas. Wright is coming off a vicious third-round stoppage over Colby Madison on October 1, 2022 in Philadelphia.

In a six-round bout, undefeated lightweight Rashan Adams steps up to face veteran Oscar Barajas.

Adams of Philadelphia is 4-0 with three knockouts. The 24 year-old is coming off a first round stoppage over Kevin Smith on October 22, 2022 in Philadelphia.

Barajas of Zamora, Mexico is 18-8-1 with eight knockouts. The 32 year-old Barajas had defeated Roxie Lam (7-1) as well Edgardo Navarrete Correa (11-2). Barajas has developed into a “Philly-Killer” as he has defeated two favorites from the City of Brotherly Love in Jerome Conquest and Damon Allen (16-1-1).

In Six-Round Bouts:

Daiyaan Butt (13-2, 6 KOs) of Philadelphia will take on an opponent to be named in a junior welterweight bout.

Mark Dawson (10-1-1, 4 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on an opponent to be named in a welterweight bout.

Laquan Evans (5-2-2, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Eliezer Olmeda (3-2) of Gloucester City, NJ in a welterweight bout.

In Four-Round Bouts:

Isaiah Johnson (6-0, 5 KOs) of Sicklerville, PA takes on an opponent to be named in a junior welterweight fight.

Nimal Farmer (2-0, 2 KOs) of Lindenwold, NJ takes on an opponent to be named in a welterweight contest.

Nasir Mickens (2-2, 1 KO) of Philadelphia battles Juan Gutierrez (0-3) of Esteil, Nicaragua in a super bantamweight fight.

Dominique Mayfield (2-1) of Philadelphia takes on Jerome Aiken (1-6-1, 1 KO) of Annapolis, MD in a heavyweight bout.

Ghandi Romain of Union City, NJ will make his pro debut against Jeremiah Kendrick (1-3, 1 KO) of Philadelphia in a super welterweight bout.

Erron Peterson (3-0, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia battles Tariq Green (2-2) of Philadelphia in a middleweight clash.

Najeem Johns (2-0, 2 KOs) of Darby, PA tussles with Leonidas Fowlkes (2-12-1) of Winchester, VA in a super lightweight battle.

Brendan O’Callaghan (4-1-1, 1 KO) of Philadelphia takes on Soslan Alborov (1-1-1, 1 KO) of Philadelphia in a super welterweight fight.

Seeing action against opponents to be named will be heavyweight Jonathan Wiles (0-2) of Philadelphia, featherweight Rasheen Brown (11-1, 7 KOs) of Philadelphia and junior welterweight Roberto Gomez (5-1, 5 KOs) of Mexico City.

First Bout at 5 PM ET

The Newtown Athletic Club is located at 120 Pheasant, Newtown PA 18940

Tickets are $200, $100, $75 and $50 and can be purchased at The Following Link

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

Panama City, January 27, 2023 – – Luis Gonzalez, a perfect 10 wins in 10 fights with 10 stoppages, will fight for the World Boxing Association Continental Americas Super Middleweight title against Encarnacion “Demoledor” Diaz on Saturday, January 28 at Los Andes Mall, Panama City, Panama. 

Rodriguez (10-0, 10 KOs) from Tao Alto, Puerto Rico, whose team includes renowned boxing attorney Tony Gonzalez and promoter, Rivalta Boxing, made his pro debut on June 11, 2021, fought again two weeks later June 26 then once per month for the next four months.  In 2022 he fought four times. His knockouts have come in rounds 2, 1, 4, 1, 2, 2, 1, 4, 3 and 2 respectively. Two of his last three last three fights were scheduled for ten rounds as competition toughened to prepare him for a title fight. 

Encarnacion Diaz (15-2, 9 KOs) from San Jose, Costa Rico, enters Saturday on a three-fight win streak including two by knockout and one by decisive unanimous decision win.

“I want to thank my team for getting me this opportunity to start 2023 strong,” said Luis. “When-not if- I beat Diaz this weekend, I want to fight the best super middleweights and make my name known as one of the best in the division.  It is my time and time for young blood to carry this division and this sport. I fight for my family and to make all of Puerto Rico proud.”

Rodriguez’s advisor, Attorney Tony Gonzalez stated “This is a wonderful opportunity for Luis to start his 2023 campaign very strong. If all goes well, we will bring him back in March to defend his title and will be targeting the top 10 in the division. Luis deserves to be fighting only the best but unfortunately towards the end of 2022, it was almost impossible finding someone willing to fight him which led to his inactivity in the 4th quarter. I understand that to a certain extent – here you have a kid who is the full package, he can box, can slug and can end the fight with one punch which makes for a very dangerous opponent. Diaz has a good record, and it should make for a good test for him. We have heard Diaz has been in camp nearly 2 months getting ready for Luis and Luis will be ready.”

INDIO, CA (January 27, 2023) – One of boxing’s most energetic and fan-friendly fighters, NABA Super Flyweight Titleholder John “Scrappy” Ramirez (10-0, 8 KOs) of Los Angeles will headline the first Golden Boy Fight Night on DAZN show of the year at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino on Thursday, February 23. Ramirez will defend his NABA title against Luis “Callado” Padilla (15-3-2, 2 KOs) of Guadalajara, Mexico. The event will be broadcast live worldwide on DAZN beginning at 6:00 p.m. PT / 9:00 p.m. ET. 

“Excited is an understatement. When I left football for boxing I always envisioned a stage like this to showcase my hard work and dedication and I’m sincerely grateful to have the opportunity now,” said “Scrappy” Ramirez. “It has been a long road to get here but I want to thank my team, Golden Boy, DAZN, the WBA and Mr. Gilberto Ramírez, Oscar and Eric, and all my fans and supporters from across the world for this opportunity. This is just the beginning and I can’t wait to headline this show at Fantasy Springs on DAZN.”

“As promised, Golden Boy is delivering the best fight nights,” said Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions Oscar De La Hoya. “On February 23, fight fans will get to see talented, rising prospects who have star potential. Scrappy Ramirez is a prime example of that – the fans will be able to feel the energy he brings as our special main event.”

Tickets for Ramirez vs. Padilla go on-sale today, January 27 at 10 a.m. PT and are priced at $65, $55, $45 and $25 plus applicable fees. Tickets can be purchased at FantasySpringsResort.com or GoldenBoyPromotions.com 

As chief support of the card, Coachella Valley’s beloved, undefeated local fighter Manuel “El Meny” Flores (14-0, 11 KOs) will measure up against Mangua, Nicaragua’s Marvin Solano (24-8, 8 KOs). The eight-round bantamweight fight will be guaranteed action, as Flores’s last six fights have all been knockouts. 

Information on the undercard will be announced in the coming weeks. 

Media interested in a credential for the fight must fill out a credential application by Monday, Feb. 20. To apply, please visit https://bit.ly/2-23GBFN. 

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Golden Boy Fight Night on DAZN is presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The event is sponsored by “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

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

LAVAL, Québec, Canada (January 27, 2023) — As he himself mentioned yesterday on his social networks, Jean Pascal is fully recovered from the COVID-19 virus, which struck him down in early January. He has received the green light from his doctor and will resume intense training starting next Monday. DiBella Entertainment, in association with Groupe Yvon Michel and Jean Pascal Promotions, and in collaboration with Blanko Sports and SES Sports Events GmbH, officially confirm the postponed “No Limit” event will now take place on March 16th at Place Bell in Laval, Canada, as two-time world champion Pascal (36-6-1, 20 KOs) faces Germany’s Michael Eifert (11-1, 4 KOs) to determine the mandatory challenger for International Boxing Federation (IBF) World Light Heavyweight champion Artur Beterbiev (18-0-0, 18 KOs).

Tickets are now on sale, ranging from $40 in the stands up to $500 on the floor. Tables for six people, including wine and meals, are also available for $3,500 or $4,500 plus tax. Tickets may be purchased online at evenco.ca or by email at info@groupeyvonmichel.ca. Tickets already purchased for February 9th will be honored.

This international event is presented by Mise-O-Jeu. The evening’s bout sheet is comprised of seven other fights:

The co-feature pits popular Mathieu “G-Time” Germain (21-2-1, 9 KOs) and Steven Wilcox (24-3-1, 7 KOs), a member of the famed family of four pro fighters. Germain began a streak of three consecutive victories in May 2021, in Quebec City, by taking the measure of Steve Claggett (33-7-2, 23 KOs) in 10 rounds. Wilcox has won his last six fights, including his most recent victory last November, by way of a fourth-round technical knockout against Mexican Francisco Martinez (11-4, 6 KOs).

To mark Saint Patrick’s Day, the authentic Irishman and promising light heavyweight prospect “Mighty” Joseph Ward (8-1, 4 KOs), of Ireland, will also be in action in an eight-round fight.

World contender Jessica “Cobra” Camara (10-3, 2 KOs), of Montreal, returns to Quebec for the first time since 2019. She has since fought five fights in the United States, including the WBA and WBO super lightweight world championship versus Kali Reis (19-7-1, 5 KOs) in New Hampshire in November 2021. She lost by split decision in an extremely close and hard-fought fight. She will meet Prisca “La Guerrera” Vicot (14-8, 2 KOs), a French woman who lives in San Diego, California.

Spectators will have the pleasure of seeing rising star Caroline Veyre (2-0) in action after her dazzling performance on January 13th on the Clavel-Plata card, in which she dominated Esefania Franco (4-5). Veyre was a 2020 Canadian Olympian and 2015 Pan-American Games gold medalist. On March 16^th, she will likely face solid opposition in Emma “Valkyria” Gongora (5-2), fighting out of Marseille, France. She has won her last five fights, including her most recent win against Martine Vallieres Bisson (5-2, 1KO) at Casino de Montreal last September.

Young Italian sensation Yoel Angeloni (1-0), the latest discovery of International Boxing Hall of Fame promoter Lou DiBella, plans to impress in a four-round special attraction. The welterweight prodigy has a bright future ahead of him.

Also, Vancouver’s skillful Eric Basran (3-0, 1 KO) intends to double down in 2023. Veyre’s teammate on Canada’s National Team returns to the ring after taking a six-round unanimous decision on January 13th against Juan Carlos Garcia (4-3), of Mexico City. This time he takes on Ruben Vallejo (7-1-1, 3 KOs) in a potentially explosive confrontation.

Former Canadian amateur champion Amanda Galle (7-0-1, 1 KO) is slated to fight in a bantamweight eight-round bout.

Pascal will meet with members of the media via teleconference this coming Monday morning to answer questions.

-30-

ABOUT DIBELLA ENTERTAINMENT 

In May of 2000, Lou DiBella launched DiBella Entertainment (DBE), a full-service sports and entertainment company, which has become one of the most successful promotional entities in boxing. Serving as matchmaker, television distributor, marketing advisor, and promoter, DiBella has developed an exciting stable of championship caliber, world-class fighters, such as Sergio Martinez, Bernard Hopkins, Jermaine Taylor, Micky Ward, Deontay Wilder, and George Kambosos, among others. DBE clearly established itself as an industry leader with the successful launch of its monthly-televised “Broadway Boxing” series in November 2003. Prior to becoming a promoter, DiBella held an 11-year tenure as the Senior Vice President of HBO Sports. While at HBO, DiBella created and established the highly successful “Boxing After Dark” series, which featured some of the sport’s greatest fights. He is also a well-known fixture in the film industry, having worked as an Executive Producer for the film “Love Ranch”, as an Associate Producer on “The Fighter”, and making his acting debut in “Rocky Balboa”. He also produced or executive produced numerous documentaries, such as Viva Baseball!, Magic Man, Maravilla, Larry Flynt for President, and Tapia. The President and Managing General Partner for the Richmond Flying Squirrels baseball team, DiBella proudly wears his 2010, 2012 and 2014 World Series rings, as his team is the class AA affiliate to the San Francisco Giants. In 2017, DiBella also became the CEO and Managing Owner of the Montgomery Biscuits baseball team, the AA-affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays. DiBella was elected to the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2020 and inducted in June 2022, as well as the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame in 2014 and the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame in 2015.

ABOUT YVON MICHEL GROUP (GYM)

Groupe Yvon Michel is a professional boxing promotion organization, founded in 2004 by Yvon Michel, Alexandra Croft and Bernard Barré, who are still active in the company, the most prolific in the history of professional boxing in Canada. Since its foundation, GYM has promoted 165 events in Quebec, all televised in Quebec on RDS, TVA Sports or Radio-Canada, as well as participated in 38 international events outside Quebec. Eight GYM boxers have become world champions: Joachim Alcine, Jean Pascal, Adonis Stevenson, Artur Beterbiev, Eleider Alvarez, Marie-Eve Dicaire (twice), Oscar Rivas and Kim Clavel. Nineteen boxers from the organization have delivered 54 world championship fights, maintaining an excellent record of 30 wins, 22 losses and 2 draws. During this period, major American television networks were more active than ever in coming to Quebec to broadcast the most important events of the organization.

IBF, WBC & WBO Light-Heavyweight Championship
12 x 3 Minute Rounds @175lbs
Artur Beterbiev 12 stone 6 pounds 8 ounces
Anthony Yarde 12 stone 6 pounds  4 ounces
 
WBA Flyweight Championship
12 x 3 Minute Rounds @112lbs
Artem Dalakian 7 stone 13 pounds 10 oz
David Jimenez 7 stone 13 pounds 2 oz
 
Vacant WBC International Light-Heavyweight contest
10 x 3 Minute Rounds @ 175lbs
Karol Itauma 12 stone 6 pounds 2oz
Ezequiel Osvaldo Maderna 12 stone 6 pounds 11 oz
 
4 x 3-minute rounds International Heavyweight contest
Moses Itauma 17 stone 12 pounds
Marcel Bode 15 stone 10 pounds
 
6 x 3-minute rounds International Featherweight contest
Umar Khan 9 stone 1 pound
Sandeep Singh Bhatti 8 stone 13 pounds 4 ounces
 
6 x 3-minute rounds International Super-Featherweight contest
Charles Frankham 9 stone 6 pounds 6 ounces 
Joshua Ocampo 9 stone 2 pounds 2 ounces
 
6 x 3-minute rounds welterweight contest
Joshua Frankham 11 stone 8 ounces
Joe Hardy 11 stone 1 pound 5 ounces
 
6 x 3-minute rounds International welterweight contest
Sean Noakes 10 stone 6 pounds 4 ounces
Santiago Garces 10 stone 4 pounds 2 ounces
 
6 x 3-minute rounds International Super-welterweight contest
Khalid Ali 10 stone 13 pounds
Ivica Gogosevic 10 stone 10 pounds 10 ounces
 
6 x 3-minute rounds International Featherweight contest
Masood Abdullah 9 stone 6 pounds
Lesther Lara 9 stone 6 pounds 10 ounces
 
6 x 3-minute rounds Cruiserweight contest
Tommy Fletcher 14 stone 3 pounds 6 ounces
Darryl Sharp 13 stone 6 pounds 8 ounces

LAS VEGAS – UFC^®, the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization, today announced the signing of Bella Mir, University of Iowa freshman and member of the women’s wrestling team, as the brand’s first NIL ambassador. 

“Bella was destined to become a member of the UFC family her entire life, and I’m proud that she’s making history as our first NIL ambassador in one of the best programs at the University of Iowa,” UFC President Dana White said. “She’s a four-time state high school wrestling champion who has won jiu-jitsu tournaments and three professional MMA fights before turning 19. Bella is an incredible role model for young women who are not only looking to get into sports, but also pursue their dreams. She’s on another level, and we can’t wait to see what she does next.” 

Mir, the daughter of two-time UFC heavyweight champion Frank Mir, joined the women’s Hawkeyes wrestling team after capturing four consecutive Nevada state high school wrestling titles. During her high school career, she ranked sixth nationally in the 144 lbs. division and was a 2021 USA Wrestling Junior Folkstyle National Champion. A decorated jiu-jitsu practitioner, Mir also won the 2022 American National Jiu-Jitsu and 2021 International Jiu-Jitsu Con Championships.

“I’m super grateful and I honestly couldn’t be more thankful to Dana and UFC for giving me this opportunity,” said Mir. “I’m going to make sure I do my best to represent UFC and show the world what I’m all about.”

As a combat sports athlete, she made her professional MMA debut on October 10, 2020, securing a unanimous decision victory while competing as a member of iKon Fighting Federation. She is currently 3-0 and was named the 2022 Female Fighter of the Year by UFC FIGHT PASS^®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports.

In 2021, the NCAA Division I Board of Directors approved an interim name, image and likeness (NIL) policy. This policy was updated in 2022 and allows all NCAA Division I, Division II and Division III student-athletes to be compensated for their NIL.

ATLANTA, GA (January 26, 2023) – BLK Prime announced today that tickets for the highly anticipated return of former four-division world champion, Adrien Broner (34-4-1, 24 KOs), who will now battle Michael Williams Jr. (20-1, 13 KOs) due to previous opponent Hank Lundy being suspended by the California Athletic Commission, will go on sale today Friday, January 27 at 12:00 p.m. ET / 9:00 a.m. PT. The 10-round welterweight clash will take place at the Gateway Center Arena @ College Park, GA, on February 25, 2023.

Tickets priced $40, $75, $100, $200 and $400 will be available for purchase at www.ticketmaster.com. This event is promoted by Christy Martin Promotions and BLK Prime. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. ET with the first fight starting at 7:00 p.m. ET.

Broner vs. Williams Jr. will broadcast worldwide via digital Pay-Per-View on BLKPrime.com and PPV.com for $39.99. In addition, the PPV event will be distributed by Integrated Sports Media and be available throughout North America via cable and satellite PPV on iN DEMAND, DIRECTV, DISH, SHAW and ROGERS. The PPV telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT. A live PPV preshow starts at 7 p.m. ET / 4:00 p.m. PT.

“I’m excited to get back in the ring and show the world that I’m still one of the best fighters in the sport,” said Broner, who has a new outlook on his boxing career. “Williams Jr. is a tough opponent, but I’m ready for the challenge, and I’m going to put on a show for the fans in Atlanta. It’s the AB show on BLK Prime.”

“I’ve been preparing for a moment like this for a long time, and I’m ready to take on Broner,” stated Williams Jr. “I’m going to take full advantage of this opportunity, and show everyone watching on BLK Prime that they didn’t make mistake by choosing me to challenge Broner. I have nothing to lose and I’m going all out on fight night 150%.”

“This is a must-see event for any boxing fan,” said BLK Prime VP Chester Johnson. “Broner and Williams Jr. are ready to go toe-to-toe in a fight that will be very entertaining for those watching live and on BLK Prime pay-per-view. Everyone tune in on February 25th, we are looking to give fight fans an explosive evening.”

#

APPLY HERE FOR MEDIA CREDENTIALS
About Gateway Center Arena

Gateway Center Arena is a state-of-the-art 5,000-seat venue located in Metro Atlanta’s Southside in College Park, GA, just minutes from downtown Atlanta via MARTA or the highway and a three-minute Skytrain ride from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. With the help of their award-winning staff, the Gateway Center Arena is every guest’s ticket to quality entertainment and events. Line-ups include a variety of professional sporting events, concerts, family events, graduations, conventions and more. As the official home to the WNBA team Atlanta Dream and the Atlanta Hawks G-League team, the College Park SkyHawks, the Gateway Center Arena is designed with sports fans in mind. Event planners have everything they need to bring the experiences they imagine to life in this world-class facility.

For more information, visit www.ArenaGatewayCenter.com, call the Box Office at (404) 857-1245 or email Box Office Manager Marissa Long at mlong@gicc.com. Details will also be shared @GatewayArena on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

About BLK Prime

BLK PRIME is a subscription video-on-demand company that offers multicultural content to a diverse audience worldwide. To learn more about BLK Prime, visit: https://watchnow.blkprime.com/ and to order the pay-per-view, visit https://ppv.blkprime.com/pay-per-view. On social media follow #BronerWilliams, on Instagram @BLKPRIMEBOXNG @BLKPRIME on Twitter @BLKPRIMEBOXING, on Facebook @BLKPRIMEMEDIA

LONDON, UK – January 26, 2023 – Today, Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) and Queensberry Promotions announced that international superstar Jake ‘The Problem Child’ Paul will, at long last, face undefeated pro boxer Tommy ‘TNT’ Fury, younger brother of Heavyweight World Champion Tyson Fury, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on Sunday, February 26, 2023, in an event produced by Skill Challenge Entertainment Enterprises.
 
The event, titled ‘The Truth’, will also feature two-weight world champion Badou Jack ‘The Ripper’ challenging WBC Cruiserweight world champion Illunga Makabu in the co-main event. The card will also showcase Ashton ‘H2O’ Sylve, an MVP undefeated fighter, as he is set to face former WBC world title challenger Maxwell Awuku 48-5-1 (33 KO’s) from Accra, Ghana with contracts being finalized.
 
This Saturday, January 28th, 2023, Paul and Fury will officially face off for the first time as they sit ringside for the Beterbiev vs. Yarde unified light heavyweight fight in London, live on BT Sport in the UK.
 
Paul vs. Fury will be broadcast exclusively live on BT Sport Box Office in the UK on Sunday, 26^th February.
 
Additionally, Paul vs. Fury will stream live in the US on ESPN+ PPV and via cable and satellite pay-per-view providers.
 
Paul and Fury were originally slated to face off in December 2021, but Fury withdrew from the bout because of a medical issue. Paul went on to record a scintillating one-punch knockout of Tyron Woodley, who stepped in as a late replacement for a rematch of the pair’s August 2021 clash. Paul is giving Fury another chance next month so he can silence the critics who claim he has yet to fight a professional boxer. The 26-year-old Cleveland native started his pro boxing journey in January 2020 and will go head-to-head with Fury, a more experienced boxer from a prominent boxing family.
 
Paul, who boasts a professional record of 6-0 with 4 knockouts, continues to make waves in the boxing world. His latest win against the legendary Anderson Silva, won him ESPNRingside’s 2022 Viral Moment of the Year, by dropping Silva in the 8th round. Paul began his pro career in January 2020 with a stunning debut against British YouTube star AnEsonGib and a subsequent, jaw-dropping knockout of former NBA star Nate Robinson in November 2020. From there, ‘The Problem Child’ shocked the industry with a first-round KO of former MMA champion Ben Askren in April 2021 and two wins over Woodley, including a vicious knockout which won him ESPNRingside’s 2021 Knockout of The Year.
 
“The moment of truth has finally arrived,” said Paul. “On February 26^th, I will get in the ring with a ‘real boxer,’ an 8-0 fighter from a storied fighting family and show the world the truth about who Jake Paul, the boxer, really is. This fight doesn’t happen without the vision and support of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, its Ministry of Sport and Skill Challenge Entertainment Enterprises. I am excited to come to Riyadh and put on a show for the world to see.”
 
Hailing from Manchester, England, Fury began boxing at the age of 12. He had 12 amateur fights, winning two regional titles and reaching the U.K. national final in 2016. Fury made his professional debut in 2018, winning by decision. He then knocked out his next four opponents, drawing attention from the boxing world. In 2021, he fought three times, including his U.S. debut on Paul’s undercard, earning his seventh victory against Anthony Taylor. He most recently shut out Daniel Bocianski over six rounds last April on the Tyson Fury-Dillian Whyte undercard. Fury, a former Love Island reality TV star, is ready for the biggest moment in his professional boxing career.
 
“Jake Paul’s boxing career ends on February 26th and I can finally move on with mine,” said Fury. “Every time I go out right now, everybody asks me about the Jake Paul fight. After this fight is done, everybody will be asking me how it felt to knock Jake Paul out. The world is about to see what happens when a proper boxer faces a YouTuber.”
 
“Jake Paul has already achieved more than anyone thought possible when we started this journey three years ago. Six professional fights, five pay-per-views, over $150 million of revenue generated and viral moment after viral moment,” said Nakisa Bidarian, co-founder of MVP. “Now it’s about The Truth. Is Jake a legitimate threat in boxing or has this been a spectacle without substance? Jake versus Tommy is one of most anticipated fights in history involving two young boxers and we are delighted to partner with Frank and George Warren on this event in the UK & Ireland, who have been tremendous to work with throughout this two-year process.”
 
“This is the fight Tommy has wanted for a long time, so I am thrilled it has all been finalised,” said Queensberry promoter Frank Warren. “I know how disappointed he was after twice being unable to make it into the ring with Jake, so I anticipate this will be a memorable occasion not short on spice. It is a fantastic opportunity for Tommy to extend his profile even further into the Middle East and American markets and the chance to bring Jake Paul’s boxing career to an abrupt halt. Credit to Jake, who I admire greatly, for jumping in with a boxer this time. But Tommy has the background and pedigree as a fighter that makes him the favourite in my book.”
 
The Paul vs. Fury event is produced by Skill Challenge Entertainment Enterprises (SCEE) and Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), in association with Queensberry Promotions and Top Rank.
 
“We are very excited about the upcoming event featuring Jake and Tommy in Riyadh and look forward to welcoming them to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.” stated Chairman of Skill Challenge Entertainment, His Highness Prince Khaled bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. “With the consumption of YouTube content per capita in Saudi Arabia remaining one of the highest in the world, the highly anticipated bout featuring one of its most renowned personalities-turned-boxer, Jake Paul, will be amongst the most-viewed events globally. The excitement of this being his biggest challenge to date is very appealing as he takes on a legitimate boxer in Tommy Fury,” he added.
 
For more information, follow on Twitter via @JakePaul, @TommyTNTFury, @MostVPromotions and @Queensberry or Instagram via @JakePaul, @TommyFury and @MostValuablePromotions and @QueensberryPromotions. 
 
About Most Valuable Promotions (MVP)
Dedicated to brand building, content creation, promotion, and strategic advisory, 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. Already making a name for itself in the sport of boxing and the overall industry, MVP was nominated as one of the prestigious Sports Breakthroughs of the Year in 2022 by Sports Business Journal. The promotion company has co-produced and co-promoted all of Paul’s latest matches including both fights against Tyron Woodley and his most recent fight against Anderson Silva, which included a co-headlining bout with MVP’s youngest signed talent, Ashton Sylve. The promotion company also signed one of the most decorated Hispanic athletes of all time, Amanda Serrano in its first year. Serrano and MVP made history in April of 2022 when Serrano went head to head with Katie Taylor, marking the first female fight to headline at Madison Square Garden. Co-founder Nakisa Bidarian was an executive producer of the historic Triller Presents Mike Tyson v. Roy Jones Jr., which was the 8^th most bought pay-per-view event in history.
 
About Queensberry Promotions (QBP)
Frank Warren is an International Hall of Fame promoter who has guided in excess of 150 fighters to world champion status across his time in the sport. In late 2020 he celebrated the milestone of 40 years as a professional licence holder and in April of this year, a multitude of records were broken when he staged the World heavyweight title fight between Tyson Fury and Dillian Whyte in front of 94,000 fans at Wembley Stadium. Mr Warren’s Queensberry operation promotionally represent numerous champions, along with the most elite young talent in British boxing.
 
About BT Sport
Launched in 2013, BT Sport broadcasts in the UK and Republic of Ireland. BT Sport offers five linear TV channels BT Sport 1, BT Sport 2, BT Sport 3, BT Sport 4, BT Sport 4K UHD, six interactive BT Sport Extra channels and is available on BT TV, Sky, Virgin and Talk Talk. BT Sport is also available online and via the App on mobile and large screen devices and operates pay per view channel, BT Sport Box Office. As well as the sole UK rights holder for the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League, BT Sport offers live sport programming including the English Premier League, boxing, UFC, WWE, Gallagher Premiership Rugby, Heineken Champions Cup and MotoGP. BT Sport is part of Warner Bros. Discovery Sports following the creation of the BT and Warner Bros. Discovery sports joint venture in the UK & Ireland.

Jersey City, New Jersey (January 27, 2023) – Star Boxing is pleased to announce the signing of undefeated Yonkers based super middleweight HARLEY “HEAVY HANDS” BURKE (7-0 6KO’s). Burke’s nickname “Heavy Hands” comes with good credence, having won six of seven professional bouts by way of knockout. On March 4th, Burke will be making his Star Boxing debut in a 6-round super middleweight bout vs JOSEPH AGUILAR (Portland, OR, 4-1-1 2KO’s) at the recently announced “Jersey City Fight Night” at White Eagle Hall in Jersey City, New Jersey.

Harley was born in Galway, Ireland, but it wasn’t long until he and his parents moved to the United States looking for new opportunity. Setting up shop in Yonkers, Harley was raised in New York, but will never forget where he came from. “I am extremely proud of my Irish American heritage,” said Harley. “Leaving a legacy as an Irish American fighter is one of my main motivators.”

Harley laced up his gloves for the first time at the age of 11 and competed in his first amateur bout at the age of 13. He fought in the New York State Golden Gloves, but always had his sights set on fighting professionally. Having a love for the sport of boxing, Harley did whatever he could to be around it. This passion led to a stint as an intern for NY and CT Hall of Fame Promoter, Joe DeGuardia during Harley’s senior year of high school. Having worked two of Star Boxing’s fight cards in Long Island, Harley knew he wanted to be a professional boxer.

Outside of the ring Harley is a go-getter. He graduated from Archbishop Stepinac High School in 2013 and has worked as a construction laborer while building a clientele for his now successful personal training business over the last ten years. In 2022 he began his own pressure washing company.

In the ring, like a pressure washer, Harley drowns you with pressure and demolishes you with his power. He turned pro in 2019 and stayed busy finding fights where he could during the pandemic. He passed his first big test against Brandon Maddox, winning by unanimous decision.

“Signing with Star Boxing is a dream come true for me,” said Harley. “In 2013 during my senior year of high school I interned for Star Boxing. 10 years later I’m signing a multiyear deal with them. It all comes full circle. My main goal since turning professional 4 years ago was to sign with a prominent promoter. Joe DeGuardia’s track record speaks for itself. He’s built world champions. I’ve got the right man backing me, now it’s on me to go and perform.?I want to bring big nights of boxing to NYC. I can’t wait.”

Star Boxing CEO JOE DEGUARDIA had this to say about the signing, “You truly never know where talent will spring from. Harley was an intern for Star Boxing back in 2013, and I would have never guessed a decade later we would be signing him as an undefeated professional fighter. We are excited for what Harley brings to the ring and admire his accomplishments outside of the ring as well. We are confident that his talent and character will define his success as he continues to develop into bigger fights. It all starts for Harley on March 4 at White Eagle Hall, so be sure to get your tickets and come support.”

Jersey City Fight Night is promoted by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing. The full thrilling fight card will be announced soon with tickets set to go on sale starting Monday, January 23. Tickets can be purchased by visiting whiteeaglehalljc.com or www.StarBoxing.com.

White Eagle Hall is located at 337 Newark Ave., Jersey City, New Jersey, 07302.

All bouts are subject to change;

For more information visit: whiteeaglehalljc.com and StarBoxing.com

JERSEY CITY FIGHT NIGHT TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Tickets Start at $50. Fight Night: March 4, 2023 at White Eagle Hall

Friday, January 27, 2023

360 Promotions / Hollywood Fight Nights

Quiet Cannon – Montebello Country Club

901 Via San Clemente

Montebello, CA 90640

Doors: 5:30 p.m.

Streaming LIVE on UFC Fight Pass (10:00 p.m. ET / 7:00 p.m. PT)

UFC Fight Pass Subscription sign-up >>https://bit.ly/3uJOnTE

Weigh-In Results

Serhii Bohachuk, 153.2lb. vs. Nathaniel Gallimore, 152.8lb.

WBC Continental Americas Super Welterweight Championship

Omar Cande Trinidad, 125.8 vs. Jose Luis Ramirez, 126

Umar Dzambekov, 174.4 vs. Anthony Fleming, 175

Daniel Barrera, 114.8 vs. Victor Edward Hernandez Martin, 116.2

Stefi Cohen, 117.6 vs. Kedra Bradley, 114

David Romero, 137.8 vs. Michael De La Cruz, 137

Gloria Munguilla, 114.4 vs. JoAnna Espinoza, 113

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