OMAHA, NEBRASKA – (December 12, 2022) – This past Saturday, BLK Prime announced that former 4-division world champion Adrien Broner (34-4-1, 24 KOs) will be returning to the ring to face Ivan Redkach (23-6-1, 18 KOs) in a highly anticipated welterweight matchup. The scheduled 10-round bout, promoted by Christy Martin Promotions, is slated for February. A fight date and location will be announced at a later date.

Broner, known for his flashy style and impressive power, in his last outing scored a unanimous decision victory over Jovanie Santiago (14-2-1, 10 KOs) in November 2020. His last fight before that was a unanimous decision loss to Manny Pacquiao in 2019. Broner is eager to show the world he still has what it takes to become a world champion again.

“I’m excited to be back in the ring and to show everyone why I’m one of the best boxers in the world,” said Broner. “Redkach is a tough opponent, but I’m confident that I have the skills and experience to come out on top. Everyone knows I bring excitement to the ring and against Redkach, it will be no different. It’s time to bring another great show to BLK Prime, I can’t wait.

Redkach, a Ukrainian-born boxer who now fights out of Los Angeles, has been in the ring with some of the best fighters in the welterweight division, which include Regis Prograis, Devon Alexander, and Danny Garcia to name a few.

“Broner is a great fighter, but I believe I have the power and determination to beat him,” said Redkach. “This is my opportunity to show the world that I’m still a dangerous fighter. I know I have what it takes to defeat Broner.”

Christy Martin Promotions will be the lead promoter for Broner vs. Redkach, once again showing the diversity BLK Prime is showing the world by having a woman lead their event. Martin, a former world champion and Hall of Fame boxer, is a member of the LGBTQ community. BLK Prime is a platform dedicated to bringing all communities together.

“I have a passion for the sport of boxing and my commitment to provide opportunities for both women and men is at the forefront of my vision,” said Martin. “BLK Prime has shown tremendous support to me and I’m excited to be the head promoter for this event. The plan is to have some very talented female fighters on the card.”

In a battle of former world champions, Mickey Bey (23-3-1, 11 KOs) and Tevin Farmer (30-5-1, 6 KOs) will square off in a highly anticipated lightweight matchup on the undercard.

#

About BLK Prime:

BLK PRIME is a subscription video-on-demand company that offers multicultural content to a diverse audience worldwide. On social media follow #BLKPrime, on Instagram @BLKPRIMEBOXNG @BLKPRIME, on Twitter @BLKPRIMEBOXING, on Facebook @BLKPRIMEMEDIA

Atlantic City, NJ (December 12th, 2022)–Due to unforeseen circumstances, the December 17th fight card promoted by Rising Star Promotions has been postponed.

“I deeply regret to inform everyone that the event on December 17th will need to be postponed until a later, more suitable, date. I, personally, take extreme pride in the quality of fan/fighter experience of RSP events and with such a short timeframe to go, we just can not pull it off due to last minute inconveniences that were far beyond our control. Thank you all for your understanding in this unfortunate matter,” said Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna of Rising Star Promotions.

The new date, which will take place in early 2023 will be announced shortly.

All tickets may be refunded to the point of purchase.

ORLANDO, FL– -Orestes Velazquez remained undefeated as Guillermo Leonel Crocco could not continue to fight in round two of their 10-round super lightweight bout that headlined the WBA Convention KO for Drugs Night of Champions Fight card at the Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida.

After the first round, Crocco complained of a shoulder injury and the fight was stopped one second into round two.

Velazquez is now 6-0 with six knockouts. Crocco is 20-3-1.

Francisco Daniel Veron stopped Leonardo Ruiz in round five of their 10-round welterweight fight featuring undefeated fighters.

Veron was dominant throughout and the fight was stopped after a hard flurry of punches in round five at 2:37.

Veron of Argentina is now 11-0 with nine knockouts. Ruiz of Pomona, CA is 11-1.

Yamaguchi Falcao stopped Ernest Amuzu in round seven of their round super middleweight bout.

Falcao dropped Anuzu in round two. Falcao dropped Amuzu again in round seven, and the fight was stopped after the corner threw in the towel.

Falcao of Brazil is 24-1-1 with 10 knockouts. Amuzu is now 26-8.

Melvin Lopez won a 10-round split decision over Jobert Alvarez in a bantamweight bout.

Lopez won by scores of 97-92 and 95-94, while Alvarez took a card 95-94.

Lopez is now 29-1. Alvarez is 20-4-2.

Conor Coyle remained undefeated as he stopped Sladen Janjanin in a scheduled 10-round middleweight bout.

Coyle scored a knockdown in round seven from a flurry of punches. The corner of Janjnain pulled the plug on the fight following the frame.

Coyle of Ireland is now 18-0 with eight knockouts. Janjanin of Bosnia is 34-14.

Idalberto Umara stopped Emiliano Martin Garcia in round five of their 10-round lightweight bout.

In round three, Umara dropped Garcia with a strong right hand. At the end of the round, Umara was able to send Garcia down again with a left hook off of a flurry. Umara ended things in round five when he landed a booming right hand that sent Garcia down and the fight was stopped at 2:17

Umara is now 8-1 with five knockouts. Garcia is 18-9-1.

Jeovanny Estela won a six-round unanimous decision over Luis Eduardo Florez in a welterweight bout.

Estela dropped Florez with a body shot in round five. Florez was docked a point at the end of round five for hitting behind the head. Estela registered a second knockdown in round six with a right hand.

Estela won by scores of 60-52 on all cards and is now 10-0. Florez is 25-25.

Ibrahimo Diallo won a six-round unanimous decision over Carlos Cruz in a middleweight bout.

Diallo of Guinea won by scores of 60-54 on all cards and is now 6-0. Cruz of Nicaragua is 2-9.

Raiko Santana scored a mild upset as he took a 10-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Joseph George in a super middleweight bout.

Santana hurt George several times throughout the fight and won by scores of 98-91, 97-93 and 96-94 to raise his record to 9-3. George of Houston, TX is 12-1.

Damian Lescaille stopped veteran Rondale Hubbert in the opening round of their six-round welterweight bout.

Lescaille of Cuba dropped Hubbert three times and the bout was stopped at 2:39.

Lesxaille of Cuba is 2-0 with one knockout. Hubbert of Minnesota is 14-25-3.

Herich Ruiz Cordoba stopped Phillip Jean Seide in the opening round of their six-round heavyweight bout.

In round one, Cordoba landed some blistering left hands. Just before the end of the round, Cordoba landed a booming left that snapped back the head of Seide and dropped him to the canvas and the fight was stopped just as the bell sounded to end the round.

Alex Rios Vega pounded out a four-round unanimous decision over Christopher Nelson in a junior welterweight bout.

Vega, 138 1/4 lbs of Saint Cloud, FL won by scores of 40-36 and 39-37 twice and is now 5-0. Nelson, 132 3/4 lbs of Kentucky is 4-22.

Terence Crawford retained the WBO Welterweight title with a devastating sixth round stoppage of David Aanesyan in front of a big crowd in Omaha, Nebraska.

In round six, Crawford landed a straight left and flush right hook to the jaw that sent Avanesyan down and out cold on his back and the fight was over at 2:14.

Crawford, 146.6 lbs of Omaha scored his 10th straight knockout to raise his mark to 39-0 with 30 knockouts. Avanesyan, 146.8 lbs of Pyatigorsk, RUS is 28-4-1

Jonathan Rodriguez stopped Nestor Robledo in round three of their scheduled six-round super bantamweight bout at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

Rodriguez dropped Robledo in round one with a hard left hook. Rodriguez dominated the action was stopped in round three.

Rodriguez of Bethlehem, PA is 12-1-1 with four knockouts. Robledo is 9-14-2.

James Bernadin remained undefeated by stopping William Parra Smith in round two of their six-round junior welterweight bout.

Bernadin landed an overhand right that opened up a cut over the left eye of Smith and the bout was stopped.

Bernadin of Lancaster, PA is now 9-0-1 with six knockouts. Smith of Anchorage, AK is 4-13-1.

Rasheed Johnson won a six-round unanimous decision over Antonio Wattell in a welterweight bout.

Johnson of Philadelphia won by 60-54 scores on all cards and is now 9-4. Wattell of Houston, TX is 3-12

Julian Gonzalez stopped Eric Manriquez in round two of their four-round junior lightweight bout.

Gonzalez dropped Manriquez twice in the opening frame. Gonzalez ended things with a perfect right that dropped Manriquez and the fight was halted 12 seconds into round two.

Gonzalez of Reading, PA is 8-0-1 with eight knockouts. Manriquez of Houston, TX is 7-15-1.

Alexis Mones and Devany Torres fought to a four-round split draw in a super flyweight bout.

Scores were 39-37 for Mones. Torres took a card 40-36 and a third card was 38-38.

Mones of Fort Worth, TX was making his pro debut. Torres of San Antonio, TX is 2-2-1.

Former undisputed lightweight champion Teofimo Lopez took a 10-round split decision over Sandor Martin at Madison Square Garden in New York City.

In round two, Martin was cut in the bridge of the nose from a headbutt. Later in the round, Martin was able to score a knockdown when Lopez charged in and Martin landed a little right hook to the side of the head. In round four, Martin began to bleed from the nostrils. Martin was awkward, but Lopez had a better workrate and landed more punches as the punch stat statistics read 97 of 391 for Lopez, while Marin was 77 of 244.

The scorecards read 97-92 and 96-93 for Lopez. Martin won a card 95-94.

Lopez is now 18-1. Martin is 40-3.

Jared Anderson Takes Out Forrest in 2

Jared Anderson remained perfect with a second round destruction of Jerry Forrest in their 10-round heavyweight bout.

After Forrest landed a couple of power punches in round one, Anderson unleashed a blitz of vicious power shots that landed on the head of Forrest. Forrest did not go down, but that meant he ate more destructive punches in the second frame and finally referee David Fields mercifully ended the fight at 1:34 of round two.

Anderson of Toledo, OH is 13-0 with 13 knockouts. Forrest is 26-6-2.

Zayas Decisions Salazar

Xander Zayas remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Alexis Salazar in a junior middleweight bout.

Zayas won by scores of 80-72 and 79-73 twice and is now 15-0. Salazar is 25-5.

Davis Decisions Burgos

Hot-prospect Keyshawn Davis won a eight-round unanimous decision over former three-time world title challenger Juan Carlos Burgos in a lightweight bout.

Davis won by scores of 80-72 on all cards and is now 7-0. Burgos of Tijuana, MEX is 35-7-3.

Joe Ward won an eight-round unanimous decision over Frederick Julan in a light heavyweight bout.

Ward of Moate, IRE won by scores of 79-73 twice and 78-74 and is now 8-1. Julan of Brooklyn, NY is 12-2.

Damian Knyba stopped Emilio Salas in round two of their six-round heavyweight bout.

The bout was stopped at 1:50 for Knyba who is now 10-0 with six knockouts. Salas is 10-4-1.

Tiger Johnson stopped Mike Ohan in round five of their eight-round junior welterweight bout.

Johnson hurt Ohan with a hard right hand and then unleashed 20 unanswered shots that forced referee Steve Willis to stop the bout at 1:29.

Damian Knyba stopped Emilio Salas in the second round two of their six-round heavyweight bout.

Knyba hurt Salas and he was out on his feet until the corner of Salas stopped the bout at 1:50.

Knyba, 245.8 lbs of Bydgoszcz, POL is 10-0 with six knockouts. Salas, 217 lbs of San Sebastian, PR is 7-4-1.

Tiger Johnson remained undefeated with a fifth round stoppage over Mike Ohan Jr. in a junior welterweight fight.

Johnson dominated the fight and in round five, Johnson backed up Ohan with a left hook and the unleashed 20 unanswered shots that forced referee Steve Willis to stop the bout at

Johnson, 141 lbs of Cleveland is 7-0 with five knockouts. Ohan Jr., 141.6 lbs of Holbrook, MA is 16-2.

PHILADELPHIA (December 9, 2022)–Weights for Saturday night’s King’s Promotions card at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia

Photo By David Algranati

Jonathan Rodriguez 119.5 – Nestor Robledo 121

James Bernadin 141 – William Parra-Smith 141

Rasheed Johnson 147.5 – Antonio Wattell 151

Julian Gonzalez 130 – Eric Manriquez 131

Alexis Araiza Mones 116.5 – Devany Cuevas Torres 114

Promoter: King’s Promotions

Venue: 2300 Arena

1st Bell: 7 PM

Stream: BXNGTV.com

Tickets are $55, $75, $100 and $150 and can be purchased by clicking:

Luis Alberto Lopez won the IBF Featherweight title with a majority decision over Josh Warrington at The First District Arena in Warrington’s hometown of Leeds, England.

Lopez, 124.3 lbs of Mexicali. MEX won by scores of 115-113 twice and 114-114 and is now 27-2. Warrington, 125.3 lbs of Leeds, England is now 31-2-1.

Ebanie Bridges made the first defense of the IBF Bantamweight title with a eighth round stoppage over Shannon O’Connell.

In round three, Bridges dropped O’Connell with a big counter right. In round five, the right side of O’Connell’s face began to swell up.

In round eight, Bridges continues to pound away on O’Connell and then land a flurry of flush shots before the fight was stopped at 1:45.

Bridges, 117.75 lbs of New South Wales, AUS is 9-1 with four knockouts. O’Connell, 117.35 lbs of Sacks Creek, AUS is 23-7-1.

Felix Cash remained undefeated with a eight-round decision over Celso Neves in a super middleweight bout.

Cash, 166 lbs of Workingham, ENG won by a 77-75 score and is now 16-0. Neves, 166.2 lbs of Basel, SWI us 9-3-2.

James Metcalf stopped Courtney Pennington at the end of round six of their 10-round super welterweight bout.

Metcalf, 153.6 lbs of Liverpool, ENG is now 24-2 with 15 knockouts. Pennington, 153.1 lbs of Brooklyn, NY is 16-6-3.

Koby McNamara won a four-round decision over Nabil Ahmed in a super bantamweight bout.

McNamara, 120.1 lbs of Leeds, ENG won by a 40-37 score and is now 4-0. Ahmed, 120.3 lbs of Bartley, ENG is 1-12-2.

Former world champion Shannon Courtenay won an eight-round decision over Gemma Ruegg in a super bantamweight fight.

Coutenay, 124.7 lbs of Watford, ENG won by a 77-75 score and is now 8-2. ruegg, 124.8 lbs of Bournemouth, ENG is 6-6.

Cory O’Regan remained undefeated with a fourth round stoppage over Antonio Rodriguez in a six-round lightweight bout.

In round four, O’Regan drove Rodriguez to the ropes and landed 14 unanswered blows and the fight was stopped at 2:03.

O’Regan, 137.8 lbs of Heckmondwike, ENG is 9-0 with one knockout. Rodriguez, 136.7 lbs of Las Palmas, SPA is 7-28-8.

Hopey Price remained undefeated with a eight-round decision over Jonathan Santana in a super bantamweight fight.

In round three, Price dropped Santana with a straight to the body.

Price, 123.2 lbs of Leeds, ENG won by an 80-72 score and is now 9-0. Santana, 123.8 lbs of Las Palmas, SPA is 9-4-1.

Junaid Bostan stopped Athanasios Glynos in round five of their six-round super welterweight bout.

In round five, Bostan landed a left hand on the chin that put Glynos down and the fight was stopped at 46 seconds.

Bostan, 155.5 lbs of Rotherham, ENG is 4-0 with four knockouts. Gkynos, 155.5 lbs of Athens, GRE is 2-2.

Rhiannon Dixon remained undefeated with a eight-round decision over Kristine Shergold in a lightweight contest.

Dixon, 134.8 lbs of Wigam, ENG won by a 8-73 score and is now 7-0. Shergold, 134.3 lbs of Exeter, ENG is 7-7-1.

NEW YORK (December 9, 2022) -Split-T Management fighters will dominate the boxing world on Saturday as former undisputed lightweight champion Teofimo Lopez takes on Sandor Martin in a WBC Elimination bout at Madison Square Garden. Earlier in the day, IBF Bantamweight champion Ebanie Bridges makes the first defense of her title when she takes on Shannon O’Connell. If that wasn’t enough, 2020 United States Olympian Tiger Johnson will kick off the festivities at Madison Square Garden when he battles Mike Ohan Jr. in a eight-round junior middleweight bout.

Lopez will be looking to take big a step towards becoming a two-division world champion when he takes on the upset-specialist Martin. The bout will headline in what has become Lopez’ annual fight night at the Garden that follows the Heisman Trophy presentation on ESPN.

Lopez of Las Vegas by way of Brooklyn is 17-1 with 13 knockouts. The 25 year-old is one of the popular and charismatic pugilists in the sport. He has become a staple fighting at The Garden on Heisman night he stopped Mason Menard in the opening round in 2018, and In 2019, Lopez knocked out Richard Commey in two rounds to win the IBF Lightweight title.

On October 17, 2020, Lopez won a 12-round unanimous decision over Vasiliy Lomachenko to capture the undisputed Lightweight title. Lopez made his super lightweight debut on August 13th by stopping Pedro Camoa in seven rounds in Las Vegas.

Martin of Barcelona, Spain has a very impressive mark of 40-2 with 13 knockouts. Martin has impressive wins over Daniel Rosilla Colaso (25-4-2), Ignacio Mendoza (38-8-2), Sanuele Esposito (19-2), Steve Jamoye (19-1-1), Valentyn Golovko (22-1), Mauro Godoy (30-3-1), Joe Hughes (17-4-1) and Kay Prospere (14-1-1).

On October 16, 2021, Martin shocked former four-division world champion Mikey Garcia by winning a 10-round majority decision,

In his last bout, Martin won a 10-round unanimous decision over former world title challenger Jose Felix on April 1st in Barcelona, Spain.

At Friday’s weigh-in, Lopez weighed 139.2 lbs. Martin was 139.8 lbs.

Lopez is promoted by Top Rank.

?The fight can be seen live on ESPN at 9 PM ET.

In Leeds, England, Bridges and O’Connell meet in a fight between Australian bantamweights.

Bridges of New South Wales, Australia is 8-1 with three knockouts. The 36 year-old won the IBF Bantamweight title with a 10-round unanimous decision over Maria Cecilia Roman on March 26th in Leeds.

O’Connell, 39, of Queensland, Australia is 23-6-1 with 11 knockouts. She has wins over Nareele Leahy (1-0). Gabisile Tshabalala (8-0-1), Edina Kiss (10-1), Bianca Elmie (3-0), Kylie Fulmer (7-0), Cherneka Johnson (13-0), Taylah Robinson (3-0) and her last bout when she stropped Sarah Higginson in the opening round on June 29th in Queensland.

Bridges was 117.75 lbs, while O’Connell was 117.35 lbs at Friday’s weigh-in.

Bridges is promoted by Matchroom Boxing.

The fight is streamed by DAZN at 2 PM ET.

Johnson of Cleveland, Ohio is 6-0 with four knockouts. The 24 year-old Johnson will be making his sixth start of 2022. With wins of Xavier Madrid (3-0) and Esteban Garcia (15-3-1), Johnson has made himself one of the emerging prospects in the sport. Even though He continues to fight top competition

Saturday he takes on Ohan of Holbrook, Massachusetts. Ohan is 16-1 with nine knockouts. He has a signature win over undefeated Ryan Dibartolomeo. Ohan has won seven straight, which includes his last outing that took place on August 6th when he defeated Jonathan Ariel Sosa

Johnson weighed 141 lbs. Ohan was 141.6 lbs.

Johnson is promoted by Top Rank.

Lopez and Johnson photo credits by Mikey Williams / Top Rank (via Getty Images). Bridges photo credit by Mark Robinson

Thomas Mattice has signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom.
 
Mattice (20-3-1 15 KOs) recorded the biggest win of his career in his last outing, taking the unbeaten record of Christian Tapia in his Cleveland hometown in November, and landing the WBC Continental Americas Super-Featherweight title in the process. Mattice floored the Puerto Rican in the second round and kept his nose in front to land a massive victory in a division he has been longing to establish himself in.
 
‘Gunna Man’ had previously pushed Isaac ‘Pitbull’ Cruz all the way in February 2020, being edged out via Majority Decision at Lightweight in Philadelphia, and now the 32 year old is looking to bring more big fights to Cleveland alongside his gym and stable mate Montana Love.
 
“I’m very excited to sign with Matchroom,” said Mattice. “This the perfect platform for me to showcase my talents and chase down World titles. I’m now fighting in the division I should’ve been, so I’m here now and planning to be the face of it. 
 
“I came up short a few times in fights that I should’ve won, but that’s in the past – 2023 is going to be the best year of my career as and I’ll make my presence felt at 130lbs.”
 
“I’m delighted to welcome Thomas to the team,” said Hearn. “Thomas is a great example of what happens when you take opportunities given to you with both hands. In Cleveland, in front of his home fans, Thomas took a gamble, beat an unbeaten fighter and has now been rewarded with a contract. Thomas is a lesson to young fighters out there to believe in yourself and back your ability, because good things can happen – and we look forward to more big fights for Thomas in 2023.”

Terence Crawford 146.6 vs. David Avanesyan 146.8

Cris Cyborg 154 vs Gabrielle Holloway 154.6

Arnold Khegai 126 vs. Eduardo Baez 125.8

Jeremiah Milton 250.8 vs. Dajuan Calloway 387.6

Steven Nelson 174.2 vs. James Ballard 175.6

Edel Gomez 175.8 vs. Joseph Aguilar 175.6

Boubacar Sylla 144.6 vs. Javier Mayoral 144.6

Alan Garcia 135 vs. Eduardo Pereira 134.4

Robert Rodriguez 121.6 vs. Jose Lopez 120.4

Alton Alik Wiggins 155.4 vs. Phillip Carmouche 155.4

MIAMI, FL (December 9, 2022)—One of the most exciting fighters in the world, WBC World Cruiserweight Champion Ilunga Junior Makabu will defend his title against the WBC Silver Champion Noel Mikaelyan on Saturday, Jan. 21 at the Casino Miami Jai-Alai.

Hall of Fame promoter Don King has called the card, “Let Freedom Ring!  Clash of the Champions!”.

“These are the two best cruiserweights in the world,” said King.  “We are going to give Miami and boxing fans across the country another action-packed boxing card.  Makabu will show the world once again why he is number one and Mikaelyan is out to prove he’s the best.”

Doors will open at 6 p.m. and the action will begin at 7 p.m.

Makabu (29-2, 25 KOs) will defend his title for the first time in a year.  He last fought Jan. 29 of this year in Warren, OH, winning a split decision over Thabiso Mchunu.  That victory was only his second defense of his title since Dec. 19, 2020.

Makabu won the vacant title on Jan. 31, 2020 in South Africa in scoring a unanimous decision over challenger Michael Cieslak  and defended the title 11 months later on Dec. 19^th and knocked out Olanrewaju in the 7^th round in Kinshasa.

Makabu, 35, who hails from the Republic of the Congo, has won 10 consecutive fights since his second career loss coming in the WBC World Cruiserweight Championship on May 29, 2016 when he got knocked out in the third round by Tony Bellew.  The bout was a slugfest as Makabu knocked Bellew down with a left hook in the first round.

Mikaelyan (26-2, 11 KOs), who is 32-years-old from Hamburg, Germany, became the WBC Silver Cruiserweight champion in his last fight, Feb. 12 of this year as he thoroughly dominated his opponent Youri Kayembre Kalenga in a 12-round unanimous decision. 

After losing a close decision to Mairis Briedis in Chicago on Nov. 10, 2018 for the WBC Diamond Cruiserweight championship, Mikaelyan rebounded to win the vacant WBC International Cruiserweight title in Miami on Dec. 12, 2020 as he stopped Jesse Bryan in the fourth round.

    •  Teofimo Lopez 139.2 vs. Sandor Martin 139.8
(Lopez’s WBO International & NABF Junior Welterweight Titles/WBC Title Eliminator — 10 Rounds

   •   Jared Anderson 239 lbs vs. Jerry Forrest 228.2 lbs
 (Vacant WBO Intercontinental and Silver USNBC Heavyweight Titles — 10 Rounds)

   •  Xander Zayas 153 lbs vs. Alexis Salazar 153.8 lbs
 (Zayas’ NABO and Vacant NABF Junior Middleweight Titles — 8 Rounds)

   •  Keyshawn Davis 134.8 lbs vs. Juan Carlos Burgos 134 lbs
 (Vacant WBO Intercontinental & USNBC Lightweight Titles— 8 Rounds)

(ESPN+, 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT)

•  Frederic Julan 175.8 lbs vs. Joe Ward 174.4 lbs
 (Light Heavyweight — 8 Rounds)

•    Damian Knyba 245.8 lbs vs. Emilio Salas 217 lbs
 (Heavyweight— 6 Rounds)

•  Tiger Johnson 141 lbs vs. Mike Ohan Jr. 141.6 lbs
 (Junior Welterweight — 8 Rounds)

* The Jahi Tucker-Ivan Pandzic fight was called off after Tucker missed weight

* The Bruce Carrington-Juan Tapia bout was canceled because Tapia was not cleared by the New York State Athletic Commission

8 x 2 mins Lightweight contest 
RHIANNON DIXON 134.8lbs v KRISTINE SHERGOLD 134.3lbs
(Wigan, England)                        (Exeter, England)

followed by

6 x 3 mins International Super-Welterweight contest
JUNAID BOSTAN 155.9lbs v ATHANASIOS GLYNOS 155.8lbs
(Rotherham, England)          (Athens, Greece)

followed by

8 x 3 mins International Super-Bantamweight contest
HOPEY PRICE 123.2lbs v JONATHAN SANTANA 123.8lbs
(Leeds, England)              (Las Palmas, Spain)

followed by

6 x 3 mins International Lightweight contest
CORY O’REGAN 137.8lbs v ANTONIO RODRIGUEZ 136.7lbs
(Heckmondwike, England)  (Madrid, Spain)

followed by

8 x 2 mins Super-Bantamweight contest
SHANNON COURTENAY 124.7lbs v GEMMA RUEGG 124.8lbs
(Watford, England)                             (Bournemouth, England)

followed by

6 x 3 mins Super-Bantamweight contest
KOBY MCNAMARA 120.1lbs v NABIL AHMED 120.3lbs
(Leeds, England)                       (Batley, England)  

followed by

10 x 3 mins WBA Continental Super-Welterweight 
JAMES METCALF 153.6lbs v COURTNEY PENNINGTON 153.1
(Liverpool, England)               (Brooklyn, USA)

followed by

21:00 LIVE ON DAZN

8 x 3 mins International Middleweight contest
FELIX CASH 166lbs v CELSO NEVES 166.2lbs
(Wokingham, England) (Basel, Switzerland)

followed by

10 x 2 mins IBF Bantamweight World Title
EBANIE BRIDGES 117.75lbs v SHANNON O’CONNELL 117.35lbs
(New South Wales, Australia) (Slacks Creek, Australia)

followed by

12 x 3 mins IBF Featherweight World Title
JOSH WARRINGTON 125.3lbs v LUIS ALBERTO LOPEZ 124.3lbs
(Leeds, England)                           (Mexicali, Mexico)

LOS ANGELES, CA (December 9, 2022): Boxing’s most active female world champion representing Nicaragua by way of Costa Rica, Yokasta Valle (27-2, 9 KOs), has decided to pursue making history in the female 105-pound division and hold on to her IBF and WBO World Minimum Championship Belts. Valle will relinquish her hard-fought WBO and IBF World Titles that were recently secured against Evelin Bermudez on November 26, 2022.

“Our team had a clear objective to unify titles in the 105-pound division,” said Yokasta Valle. “We were given the opportunity to go up to the 108-pound division and we decided to take it. However, we know in our hearts what we want to do – plus Seniesa Estrada said no one wanted to fight her. So, I have decided to stay in the 105-pound division so I can prove her wrong and give her a real fight in her career.”

Yokasta Valle has made a mark in female boxing not only in Costa Rica, but in Central America and beyond. As the most active World Champion of 2022, she fought four times including two title defenses of the IBF World Minimumweight Title, a successful unification match of the WBO and IBF Minimumweight championship titles, and a victory shot for the Light Flyweight WBO and IBF World Titles. She is poised to make a mark in boxing with her charisma to become a unified champ.

#

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

Las Vegas – UFC^® caps off 2022 with another exciting event at UFC Apex that will be headlined by a pair of thrilling strikers as No. 3 ranked middleweight contender Jared Cannonier collides with No. 7 Sean Strickland. Also on the card, rising lightweight contenders lock horns as No. 9 ranked Arman Tsarukyan faces No. 12 Damir Ismagulov.  

UFC FIGHT NIGHT^®: CANNONIER vs. STRICKLAND will take place Saturday, December 17 at UFC APEX in Las Vegas. The entire card will be available on ESPN+ in English and Spanish, with the main card starting at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT and the prelims at 4 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. PT.

Former middleweight title challenger Cannonier (15-6, fighting out of Anchorage, Alaska) returns to the Octagon aiming to make a statement to the division. A former heavyweight and 205-pound standout, Cannonier found his groove at 185-pounds where he has finished all but one of his wins by knockout, including victories over Anderson Silva, Derek Brunson and Kelvin Gastelum. He now sets out to defend his spot in the rankings and reinsert himself into the championship conversation.

Strickland (25-4, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) looks to break into the middleweight Top 5 for the first time in his career. A volume striker with relentless pressure, he has entertained fans with wins over Jack Hermansson, Uriah Hall and Brendan Allen. Strickland now intends to make the most of his third UFC main event by becoming the first middleweight to stop Cannonier.

Rising star Tsarukyan (18-3, fighting out of Krasnodar, Russia) seeks to end the year on a high note and begin his run for title contention. A Master of Sports in MMA and freestyle wrestling, Tsarukyan has established himself as one of the top prospects on the UFC roster with victories over Joel Alvarez, Christos Giagos and Davi Ramos. He now plans to hand Ismagulov his first UFC loss in dominant fashion. 

Ismagulov (24-1, fighting out of Udarnyi, Russia) has his sights set on breaking into the Top 10 for the first time if he can score the biggest win of his UFC career. Currently on an impressive 19 fight win streak, he earned his spot in the rankings with victories over Guram Kutateladze, Rafael Alves and Thiago Moises. Ismagulov now aims to secure his first UFC finish and declare himself as the next top contender in the division.

Additional bouts on the card include:

• No. 8 ranked flyweight contender Amir Albazi (15-1, fighting out of Baghdad, Iraq) looks to spoil the UFC debut of Dana White’s Contender Series veteran Alessandro Costa (12-2, fighting out of San Pedro Cholula, Pueblo, Mexico)
• No. 15 ranked featherweight contender Alex Caceres (19-13, 1 NC, fighting out of Miami, Fla.) squares off with the always exciting Julian Erosa (28-10, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.)
• No. 9 ranked flyweight contender David Dvorak (20-4, fighting out of Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic) steps into the Octagon to defend his spot in the rankings against No. 12 Manel Kape (17-6, fighting out of Phuket, Thailand)
• Drew Dober (25-11, 1 NC, fighting out of Denver, Colo.) meets Bobby Green (29-13-1, fighting out of Fontana, Calif.) in a battle of lightweight veterans
• Cody Brundage (8-2, fighting out of Littleton, Colo.) faces Michal Oleksiejczuk (17-5, 1 NC, fighting out of Lublin Voivodeship, Poland) at middleweight
• Rising strawweight contenders collide as Cheyanne Vlismas (7-2, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) takes on Cory McKenna (7-2, fighting out of Wales, United Kingdom)
• Jake Matthews (18-5, fighting out of Epping, Victoria, Australia) plans to remain undefeated in 2022 as he matches up with Matthew Semelsberger (10-4, fighting out of Ijamsville, Md.) at welterweight
• An exciting middleweight bout sees Julian Marquez (9-3, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) and Deron Winn (7-3, fighting out of Gilroy, Calif.) collide
• Said Nurmagomedov (16-2, fighting out of Dagestan, Russia) and Saidyokub Kakhramonov (10-2, fighting out of Spokane, Wash. by way of Samarkand, Uzbekistan) face off at bantamweight
• The Ultimate Fighter season 29 middleweight weight Bryan Battle (9-1, fighting out of Matthews, N.C.) returns to 170-pounds seeking another highlight reel KO against Rinat Fakhretdinov(20-2, fighting out of Moskva, Russia)
• Lightweights Rafa Garcia (14-3, fighting out of Imperial, Calif.) and Maheshate (9-1, fighting out of Shanghai, China) look to steal the show
• Sergey Morozov (18-5, fighting out of Aktobe, Kazakhstan) looks to make a statement against Journey Newson (10-3, 1 NC, fighting out of Portland, Ore.) in a bantamweight bout

Visit the UFC.com for information and content to support your UFC coverage. Please click here to apply for the event.

###

About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 688 million fans and 207 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to nearly 900 million TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 75 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS^®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is owned by global entertainment, sports and content company Endeavor, and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram and TikTok: @UFC.

About 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).

About ESPN

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

LAS VEGAS – December 8, 2022 – Undisputed Super Welterweight World Champion Jermell Charlo will defend his four titles against unbeaten No. 1 contender and aggressive puncher Tim Tszyu live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, January 28 from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas in a Premier Boxing Champions Event.

One of the most anticipated matches of 2023, Charlo vs. Tszyu pairs two hard-hitting boxer-punchers in a high-stakes bout with Tszyu attempting to dethrone the best 154-pounder in the sport. Charlo earned his position as undisputed champion by stopping Brian Castaño in May and unifying all four titles. He will look to add another big name to his pound-for-pound resume against the Australian star Tszyu, who hopes to join his father Kostya Tszyu as an undisputed world champion.

Pre-sale tickets will be available Monday, December 12 from 10 a.m. PT to 10 p.m. PT through AXS.com with the code: BOXING

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions, in association with No Limit Boxing, go on sale Tuesday, December 13 at 10 a.m. PT and can be purchased through AXS.com.

“The super welterweight division has delivered memorable fight after memorable fight in recent years, and the division’s king, Jermell Charlo, will be back to defend his crown and add another chapter to that history on January 28 in Las Vegas,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “This is a battle of contrasting styles as Jermell Charlo brings his special blend of power and sublime ring skills against unbeaten Tim Tszyu, who will bring an aggressive style and championship pedigree into a matchup boxing fans around the world are looking forward to. Make sure you’re at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas or watching live on SHOWTIME, because this is a fight you won’t want to miss.”

“This marks Jermell’s 16^th appearance on SHOWTIME, and it’s been a privilege watching him develop into the consensus No. 1 fighter in the division and one of the top pound-for-pound boxers in the sport,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “Stylistically, Charlo vs. Tszyu is one of the most attractive fights that can be made in boxing, given Jermell and Tim’s aggressive temperaments in the ring. Kudos to them both, and everyone involved, for putting this fight on SHOWTIME. After hosting Tim’s U.S. debut in March, we’re thrilled to see him challenge Jermell and dare to be great like his father Kostya, who fought on the network 10 times. Both Jermell and Tim have never shied away from a challenge, and this stacks up to be a real Fight of the Year type match-up.” 

Charlo (35-1-1, 19 KOs) propelled himself to undisputed champion by fighting and beating the best in the division including Castaño, Jeison Rosario, Tony Harrison, Austin Trout and Erickson Lubin. The 32-year-old from Houston won his first title with a stunning knockout of John Jackson for the vacant WBC championship in 2016 and successfully defended the title three times, knocking out Charles Hatley and Lubin, and scoring a unanimous decision over Trout. He suffered his first loss via unanimous decision to Harrison on a card that he shared with his twin brother, WBC Middleweight Champion Jermall Charlo, in 2018.

After rebounding with a KO victory over Jorge Cota, Charlo stepped into the rematch with Harrison and avenged the loss in resounding fashion with a knockout victory in round 11. He then challenged WBA/IBF champion Jeison Rosario in an electrifying unification bout and made a statement with an eighth-round knockout in 2020. With the undisputed championship on the line, Charlo faced Castaño and fought to an exciting draw before once again prevailing in a rematch with a 10^th-round stoppage. Charlo will ride that victory and a groundswell of confidence into his match against the unbeaten Tszyu.

“I’m excited to be back in the ring to defend my undisputed crown,” said Charlo. “I’m thankful for everything I’ve accomplished, but the battle isn’t over. Tim Tszyu is a young, hungry, aggressive fighter but I’m a pound-for-pound great. I reign as the undisputed champion and if anyone wants a shot at the crown, they gotta see me. I’m not going anywhere. I want all my fans to tune in because once again, it’s Lions Only time and I plan to light up Las Vegas and show the world that I’m the most dangerous fighter in the sport, regardless of division.”  

The 28-year-old Tszyu (21-0, 15 KOs) has quickly climbed the rankings in the 154-pound division with an all-action, aggressive style. The notable names on his resume include former welterweight champion Jeff Horn, whom Tszyu stopped in round eight, and Terrell Gausha, a top contender and  member of the 2012 U.S. Olympic team. A native of Sydney, Australia, Tszyu made his U.S. and SHOWTIME debut against Gausha and showed his poise and toughness by rallying back from a first-round knockdown to defeat Gausha via unanimous decision.

Tszyu grew up playing soccer, but soon gravitated toward boxing. The decision led to him following in the legendary footsteps of his father, Kostya, who was an undisputed 140-pound champion and who was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2011. The match against Charlo will represent an opportunity for Tszyu to blaze his own trail in boxing, joining his father in the club of undisputed world champions. 

“Jermell is a great, smart fighter and has been for many years – becoming undisputed is an incredible achievement. But his time is over now, because I’m about to shock the world and take over,” said Tszyu. “It’s going to be a great fight as neither of us know how to take a backward step and are going to be swinging from the start with very bad intentions. I’m preparing for a bloody war as I know he is too. I’ve already been grinding for months and I’m in the best shape of my career. The groundwork was laid in Australia and Thailand but I’m here now in the U.S. to take it to the next level, which is exactly what’s needed when you’re fighting for the undisputed championship of the world.”

#          #          #

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

White Plains, New York (December 8, 2022) – Star Boxing fighters take to the road this weekend, as Hartford, Connecticut’s own, RICHIE “POPEYE THE SAILOR MAN” RIVERA (21-1 16KO’s) is on a mission of retribution in Puerto Rico on the show headlining former world champion Alberto Machado vs Edwin Valentin on Friday night (12/9). The following night (12/10) in Omaha, Nebraska, undefeated super lightweight BOUBACAR SYLLA (12-0 7KO’s) aims to tack on another victory in 2022, fighting on the undercard of multi division and undisputed world champion, Terrance Crawford vs David Avanesyan.

RICHARD ‘POPEYE’ RIVERA

On Friday night (12/9) Richie Rivera, affectionately known as “Popeye,” will face off with Argentinian ARIEL BOSCONCEL (13-3-1 12KO’s) at the Coliseo Pedrin Zorrilla in San Juan, Puerto Rico on ProBox TV in an 8 round 185 lb. bout. Rivera saw his acclaim rise after fighting former world champion, BADOU JACK, on the undercard of Joshua-Uysk 2 this past August in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. In a fight that was draped in controversy Rivera commanded the respect of the boxing world for his performance, even though the judges somehow saw otherwise. In a bout that included an 8th round that ran 58 seconds long and finished with a highly questionable 10 round split decision in Jacks favor, Rivera will only allow the Jack fight to fuel his return to the ring Friday night.

Rivera had this to say about the bout, “Popeye el marino soy, TOOT TOOT! Can’t wait to show out on Friday. I am super blessed and orgulloso de tener esta oportunidad! Ahora si quetate tu pa poner me yo.” Translated , Rivera stated “I am Popeye the Sailor Man, TOOT TOOT! Can’t wait to show out on Friday. I am super blessed and proud to have this opportunity. Get out of the way, now it’s my turn.”

BOUBACAR SYLLA

On Saturday night (12/10) at the Chi Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska, undefeated super lightweight Boubacar Sylla of Cincinnati, Ohio will take on Javier Mayoral (4-2 1KO) in a six-round super lightweight bout. Sylla who is coming off a victory in April, looks to close out 2022 with a pristine 13-0 record- but this fight is more than just another possible notch in the win column for Sylla. His dream of fighting on the samecard of his friend and training partner, World Champ and P4P Star, Terrance Crawford, becomes a reality on Saturday night. The fight will stream live on ppv.blkprime.com.

Sylla shared his thoughts on the fight, “I have always wanted to fight on a Crawford undercard and I am excited to make that a reality. This will be a great way to close out the year with another victory and then focus on a big 2023. Thanks to my trainer BoMac, Star Boxing and BLK Prime for the opportunity.”

The Rivera-Bosconcel bout will take place on December 9, in San Juan, Puerto Rico and is promoted by Miguel Cotto Promotions and Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.

The Sylla-Mayoral bout will take place on December 10 in Omaha, Nebraska and is promoted by BLK PRIME and Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.

ABOUT STAR BOXING TV:

STAR BOXING TV brings you live action, Star Boxing archives and countless hours of thrilling professional boxing with over 30 years of entertainment.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE.

STAR BOXING FEATURED VIDEOS:

Star Boxing: The Journey Continues

Rockin’ Fights 41 Recap

Star Boxing Quater-Zips – XL/Black with White Logo

Embroidered Star Boxing logo on a athletic tech material quarter zip SIZING ??Adult S-XXXL

$40.00
SHOP NOW

STOCKTON, Calif. (Dec. 7, 2022): Toscano Boxing Promotions returns on December 17 as middleweight warrior Quilisto Madera (13-3, 9 KOs) takes on Hector Manuel Zepeda (21-5, 7 KOs) in an eight-round main event at the Stockton Memorial Civic Auditorium in Stockton, California. The fight will headline a full card of action that will be streamed live on FightHype. 

With less than two weeks to go until fight night, Madera is beginning to enter the last stages of camp and has emphasized his plans to engage in a toe-to-toe battle against Zepeda.

“Honestly, it’s about going in there and beating his ass,” said Madera. “I’m a really good boxer. I have really good boxing skills. But I don’t believe that this is going to be a boxing match. It’s going to be about who has more balls, who has more power, and who’s really there to fight. I believe that he might try to use his skill, but I believe overall he’s going to be trying to survive.”

“I’ve seen he’s had a couple big fights. I’ve seen that he’s fought Sebastian Fundora. I think he had a bout 60 amateur fights. I’ve seen his style. He’s kind of a boxer. And he’s not a punk. He knows how to fight backwards and throw combinations.”

“So, I’m not saying that I’m not going to use my intelligence and skills. But I’m just hungry. I haven’t had a lot of opportunities. I haven’t had a lot of fights. So, I’ve been waiting for a spot. I want to showcase in fashion and show that my inactivity will not affect me. I’m just going to go in there and put a show on for the fans.”

In the co-main event of this card, Manuel Jaimes (12-1-1, 10 KOs) of Stockton, California will look to bounce back from his only loss in an eight-round lightweight battle against Ricardo Lopez Torres (16-5-3, 11 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico.

The following undercard bouts are also scheduled to take place:

·      Arturo Popoca (5-0-1, 4 KOs) of Riverside, California will take on Alexis De Luna (10-0, 5 KOs) of Bakersfield, California in a six-round battle between undefeated featherweight prospects. 

·      Ector Madera (10-0, 6 KOs) of Stockton, California will put his undefeated record on the line in a six-round welterweight battle against Alejandro Frias (13-8, 6 KOs) of Tepic, Nayarit, Mexico. 

·      Giovannie Gonzalez (15-6-1, 12 KOs) of Stockton, California will clash against Marco Cardenas (8-7-1, 4 KOs) of Salem, Oregon in a six-round lightweight bout.

·      Irving Xilohua (3-0, 2 KOs) of Stockton, California faces off against Jesus Arturo Guzman (8-8, 5 KOs) in a four-round super bantamweight fight.

·      Kenneth Lopez (6-0, 3 KOs) of Ceres, California returns in a four-round super middleweight tilt against Bryan Martinez (2-2, 1 KO) of Paso Robles, California. 

# # #

Madera vs. Zepeda is an eight-round middleweight fight presented by Toscano Boxing Promotions. The event will take place on Saturday, December 17 at the Stockton Memorial Civic Auditorium in Stockton, California. The event will be streamed live on FightHype.

Tickets for Madera vs. Zepeda are on sale now and start at $50, excluding applicable services charges. Tickets are available for purchase at Ticketon.com or by clicking here.

Credentials: Media interested in attending Madera vs. Zepeda must be pre-approved for media credentials. The credential application is available HERE. The deadline for submitting the media application is Monday, December 12 at 5:00 p.m. PT.

About Toscano Boxing Promotions  

Toscano Boxing Promotions is a promotional company based out of Stockton, California that was founded by Jorge Toscano in 2018. The company has hosted events both in the United States and in Mexico, including the 2021 battle between Anderson Silva and Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. The Toscano Boxing stable includes rising stars Damian Sosa, Manuel Jaimes, Jose Alvarado, Jose Carrillo and more. 

Amateur standout Francis Oran is getting ready to turn professional on January 20th in Bethlehem, PA.

Oran, who is the one of the most accomplished amateur fighters coming out of the State of Pennsylvania in recent years, had his dreams set on becoming a 2020 Olympian. Unfortunately, the pandemic happened and with that Francis dream became a mirage. The AIBA (Amateur International Boxing Association) canceled a lot of the Olympics qualifiers and Francis Oran was not able to chase his dreams of qualifying for the Olympics. 

Now two years later, Francis has set his goals at becoming a World Champion at the professional level. The former amateur National Champion had set his sight on building a strong team around him to help him chase his goals. For his manager he chose Trifon Petrov.

“I’ve heard amazing things about Trifon Petrov. The work he has done with his other fighters speaks volumes. I’m extremely excited to be part of his team.” said Oran. 

“I’m extremely excited to have the opportunity to work with Francis. I’ve followed his career for a long time, and I absolutely believe he has the skill set and determination to become a world champion.” said Petrov. 

After signing with Petrov, the 24 year old Francis Oran inked a co-promotional deal with Marshall Kauffman of King’s Promotions and Tony Jeter of Jeter Promotions. 

“I’ve known Marshall since I was a kid, I can’t wait to work with him. I’ve also heard only good things about Tony, he does big things in Maryland and also Pennsylvania. I feel that with Marshall and Tony in my corner I would stay very busy, and I can’t wait for that.” said Oran. 

Marshall Kauffman, a Pennsylvania Hall of Fame promoter is also looking forward to working with Oran. 

“I’ve known this young man for over 10 years and the sky’s the limit for him.” said Kauffman. 

Tony Jeter of Jeter Promotions plans to bring Francis to his event in Maryland in February. 

“Francis is an excellent fighter, he has all the tools in the box to have an extremely successful career.” said Jeter. 

Francis is trained by Paul Pinnock. Pinnock has been with Francis from the start of his boxing journey, winning multiple national and international tournaments. Now they are looking to bring that same success into the paid ranks. 

Newly crowned WBA Bantamweight Champion of the World Nina Hughes has signed a long-term promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing.
 
The 40-year-old from Billericay in Essex, who is trained by Kevin Lilley and managed by Lee Eaton, ripped the WBA crown from the USA’s Jamie Mitchell at the Hilton Palm Jumeirah in Dubai last month to become Britain’s latest World Champion. 
 
A four-time ABA National Champion, the mother of two only turned professional in December 2021 at the age of 39. She landed the vacant Commonwealth and WBO International Titles in her third fight against Tysie Gallagher in July before making history against Mitchell in just her fifth fight in the paid ranks.  
 
“It was an amazing feeling being crowned World Champion,” said Hughes. “It made all of the hard work and sacrifices over the years worthwhile. My dreams had finally become a reality. 
 
“Hopefully it inspires girls around the world to follow their dreams and take up boxing no matter what obstacles get in the way. Not many people believed I could do it because of my age apart from my team and the people around me that know me well, so I was glad to prove everyone wrong.
 
“I’m really excited to be teaming up with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom. I’m looking forward to boxing on the big stage in some big exciting fights. The aim will be to win more World Titles and unify in the Bantamweight division. I want the big fights that people want to see.”
 
“I’m delighted to welcome another World Champion to the Matchroom stable in WBA Bantamweight champion Nina Hughes,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “This is quite a remarkable story, after an impressive amateur career, Nina waited until she was 39 years old to turn professional and within 12 months captured the World Title against highly regarded Jamie Mitchell on away soil. She has now put herself in the frame for huge domestic and unification fights and we look forward to delivering what she deserves in 2023.”
 
“I am over the moon for Nina,” said Eaton. “Nina came into the game very late turning pro at 39 and within 12 months she’s had five pro fights, won the WBO International and Commonwealth Titles, and then gone over to Dubai and beat the current WBA World Champion very comfortably.
 
“When I signed Nina we always had the aim of becoming World Champion but to do it this quick is incredible. We want the big fights straight away – Shannon Courtenay or Ebanie Bridges next would be ideal. With Matchroom’s backing I believe she can go on to unify the division and even become undisputed.
 
“I’ve known Nina a long time as we are both from same area – it’s a mad situation! I messaged Nina about turning over in 2017 and she said she couldn’t be bothered with selling tickets! Now five years later she’s World Champion within 12 months which is a very proud moment for me as her manager and friend.”
 
You can follow Nina’s journey on Twitter: @NinaSmith888 and Instagram: _ninahughes

PHILADELPHIA PA (December 6, 2022)–This past Saturday night, Jayon Timmin thrilled his large and raucous fan base as he had to get off the deck to win a four-round unanimous decision over tough Juan Gutierrez in the featured bantamweight bout in front of a near-capacity crowd at the Grand Yesha Ballroom in Philadelphia.

The entertaining six-bout card was promoted by RDR Promotions.

After a close first-round, Gutierrez was able to score a knockdown in round two as he landed a hard right hand that put Timmin on the canvas. Timmin was able to right himself and shake off being put down. He was urged on by a loud supporting section, and came back to take the final two rounds, and get the decision by scores of 38-37 on all cards.

Timmin of Philadelphia is 1-0. Gutierrez of Estieli, Nicaragua is 0-3.

Erron Peterson remained undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Dewayne Williams in a middleweight contest.

Peterson scored an early knockdown as he dropped Williams in the opening frame with a left hand.

Peterson of Philadelphia won by tallies of 39-36 on all cards and is now 3-0. Williams of Philadelphia is 3-6-1.

Brendan O’Callaghan won a four-round unanimous decision over Antonio Allen in a junior middleweight contest/

O’Callaghan of Philadelphia won by scores of 40-36 on all cards and is now 4-1-1. Allen of Philadelphia is 1-14-1.

Jalique Holden scored a second round stoppage over Nathan Benichou in a scheduled four-round lightweight bout.

The time of the stoppage was 56 seconds for Holden of Wilmington, Delaware and is now 3-0. Benichou of Puebla, Mexico is 2-14-1.

Najeem Johns stopped Anthony Young in the second round of their four-round welterweight fight.

The time of the stoppage was 2:22 for Johns of Darby, PA and is now 2-0 with two knockouts. Young of Philadelphia is 0-6.

Heavyweight’s Romelle Terrell and Jerome AIken battled to a four-round draw.

Terrell of Chapel Hill, NC was making his pro debut. Aiken of Annapolis, MD is 0-6-1.

‘Super’ Dan Azeez will fight Rocky Fielding for the vacant Commonwealth light-heavyweight championship title when they battle on the beach at the Bournemouth International Centre on Saturday, December 17th

In the fight before Christmas, hometown hero Chris Billam-Smith takes on international challenger Armend Xhoxhaj as he looks to take a step closer towards a cruiserweight world title shot in 2023.

But there promises to be a storm by the sea for the chief support as British light heavyweight champion Azeez and Liverpudlian Fielding collide.

Azeez (17-0, 11 KOs) displayed his class in September when he outshone Shakan Pitters on Merseyside. 

But the Londoner faces arguably the toughest test of his career to date as he looks to protect his flawless record against experienced world-level campaigner Fielding (30-2-0, 17 KOs) – whose only-ever defeats have come against Canelo Alvarez and Callum Smith.

Joining Azeez and Fielding on the bill is lightweight star Cori Gibbs, who faces Irish fighter Victor Rabei.

The Birmingham fighter, 29, is unbeaten with an impressive record of 17-0 (3 KOs).

Steven ‘Drago’ Robinson (5-1-0, 3 KOs) will look to upset the undefeated ‘Glasgow Warrior’ Nick Campbell (5-0, KOs) when the hard-hitting heavyweights meet on the undercard. 

Campbell sparred with BOXXER’s Joseph Parker at Tyson Fury’s gym in Morecambe before the former world champion’s fight with Joe Joyce in September.

The Scot will out to make a name for himself with a big performance in Bournemouth.

?Rising Portsmouth welterweight Michael McKinson (22-1-0, 2 KOs) returns to action for the first time since his August defeat in Texas by Vergil Ortiz Jr

.?And local favourites Lee Cutler (11-1-0, 7 KOs) and Mace Ruegg (7-0) will be on hand to spread some early festive cheer as they look to close out 2022 with respective victories in front of their home fans.

Plus, Bournemouth will witness the debut of Hull super-welterweight Harvey Lambert.

Lambert, 24, enjoyed a dazzling amateur career winning as a member of the Team GB Podium Squad and was an Elite ABA champion and Tri Nation Champion too.? Lambert is keen to emulate the success of fellow-Hull native Luke Campbell and go on to enjoy an illustrious professional career – and he’ll be determined to start well with a winning debut. 

The last few remaining tickets are on sale now at Boxxer.com

NEW YORK (December 6, 2022) -This past Friday night in Plant City, Florida, super welterweight Marques Valle remained undefeated with a disqualification win over Luis Midyael Sanchez in the second round of their scheduled six-round bout.

Valle is managed by Split-T Management.

Valle was dominant in the over the five-plus minute fight, to the point where Sanchez was constantly holding. Sanchez was deducted two points in the second round for his hugging. He did not get the message as he continued to grab Valle, and finally the referee saw enough and pulled the plug on the fight at 2:22.

Valle, who had his perfect knockout record stopped, is now 7-0 with six knockouts.

The 23 year-old native of Wesley Chapel, Florida is promoted by Pro Box Promotions.

December 6, 2022, New York, NY  – –  The Bronx’s undefeated Andy Dominguez will be the main event fighter for the first time in his young career in a fight card tabbed “Holiday Fight Night.” The event takes place Wednesday, December 21, just four days before Christmas, the best time of the year, at Sony Hall, in Times Square, New York City. 

Featured on the card will be former WBA Intercontinental Super Middleweight Champion Anthony Sims Jr., undefeated Steven “The Hitman” Ortiz, former world champion challenger Sulem Urbina and Elon de Jesus.

This will be BoxingInsider Promotions second fight card. Their first, on October 13, also at Sony Hall, had a raucous standing-room-only crowd.

Tickets for “Holiday Fight Night,” priced from $85 are available at Ticketmaster Here

“This is the best present – to be back home fighting in New York City for the holidays, in front of my family, friends and fans,” said Andy Dominguez. “I plan on giving them another exciting fight.“

“I’m real excited for this bout,” said Anthony Sims Jr. “It’s my first time fighting as a middleweight and first time fighting in NYC – and in Times Square – that’s real old school. I love that. I’m ready to show off my skills and win over some NY fans”

“I’m very excited to be back in ring against a durable veteran fighter like Andrew Rodgers,” said Ortiz. “Fighting in one of the biggest fan-based boxing cities just four days before Christmas will make this a special victory. I’m taking this fight very seriously, working hard in training camp away from my family. I am determined to look sharp and impress. I hope Rodgers is ready because I am coming with a vengeance.”

“I’m looking forward to coming to New York as it has been a dream of mine to fight there,” said Sulem Urbina. “Indeya Smith is a good fighter. She’s fought great opposition and she’s rugged. I just know I am there to win and this will be my Christmas present.”

“Excited is an understatement,” said de Jesus. “To be fighting in New York for the first time in my professional career & what a better time to be here, to put on a show for my family and friends during the holiday season! Look for an exciting fight as I aim to climb the ranks and make a name for myself in my division.”

Andy Dominguez (8-0, 6 KOs) from The Bronx and born in Mexico, knocked out his last opponent in the first round in front of a boisterous standing room only crowd gone wild that included many of his family and friends. It was Andy’s fourth knockout win in a row. Andy turned pro in August 2020, in a bubble event during the pandemic peak. Dominguez will fight fellow flyweight Gilberto Mendoza (19-13-3, 10 KOs) from Modesto, California in a bout scheduled for eight-rounds.

Anthony “The Magician” Sims Jr. (22-1, 20 KOs) born in Indianapolis now residing in Los Angeles made his pro debut on April 9, 2014, following a stellar career. He rolled through his first twenty bouts which earned him a January 30, 2020, WBO Latino supermiddleweight title fight, which he lost by split decision.  He would rebound in his next fight, winning the WBA Intercontinental Super Middleweight title on August 13, 2021 with a ninth round stoppage. On December 21, Sims Jr will fight Anthony Todd (14-6, 8 KOs) from Atlanta, GA in an eight-round middleweight bout.

Steven “Hit Man” Ortiz (12-0, 3 KOs) born and raised in Philadelphia, made it to the Gold Gloves national semi-finals in 2014 before turning pro in February 2015. Through his first six professional fight he had lost a total of one round on only one judge’s scorecard. On February 23, 2019, Ortiz won the Pennsylvania State Lightweight title, knocking down Jeremy Cuevas twice en-route to a unanimous decision victory.  On December 21, Ortiz will battle Andrew Rogers (7-10, 2 KOs) from Elkhart, Indiana in an eight-round lightweight bout.

Sulem Urbina (13-2-1, 2 KOs), born in Mexico now living in Phoenix, Arizona began her boxing life fighting at the Oxnard PAL as an amateur. She began her pro career in 2016 and won her first twelve bouts (with one no contest mixed in). Her first loss, on October 30, 2020, came against who is now Unified World Champion and Ring Belt Champion Marlen Esparza, against whom she lost a unanimous decision. On July 9, 2021 Sulem fought WBA Flyweight Champion Naoko Fujioka and lost a majority decision. On December 21, Sulem battles Indeya Smith (5-6, 1 KO) from Dallas TX in an eight-round super flyweight bout.

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.

ABOUT BOXING INSIDER

Established in 1997 as a premier boxing news and information destination, BoxingInsider has recently transitioned into the promotional business.  BoxingInsider has promoted one amateur boxing event and on October 13 had their first professional boxing promotion, at Sony Hall, Times Square, New York, NY.

OMAHA, NEBRASKA (December 5, 2022) – The biggest fight to end the year between the best fighter in the world, WBO welterweight world champion Terence “Bud” Crawford (38-0, 29 KOs) taking on David Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs) in a PPV showdown, that will take place at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Neb. on December 10, now has an official broadcast team.

Lupe Contreras will serve as the ring announcer, Zab Judah will offer behind-the-scenes insight and backstage interviews, Todd Grisham will lead the commentary crew with BWAA award-winning broadcast journalist Paulie Malignaggi, along with former world champion Antonio Tarver. Cheyenne McCargo will serve as the undercard scoring voice to conclude the crew. 

Crawford vs. Avanesyan, a 12-round WBO welterweight world title clash, will stream live on BLK Prime and across all cable and satellite outlets for the price of $39.99. BLK Prime, a Silicon Valley-based tech company, is a subscription video-on-demand platform that utilizes elite technology to bring the best picture-perfect stream available. The telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT.

Lupe Contreras, a veteran ring announcer of over 20 years, has called some of the biggest fights the sport has seen. Traveling to every realm of the globe to introduce the best pugilists in the world, when Contreras calls a fight, you know it is a big deal!

Todd Grisham has been innovating sports entertainment broadcasts from the WWE, to being a staple of the DAZN boxing crew, Grisham is becoming one of the iconic figures in the sport, and will be guiding the action on Saturday.

Paulie Malignaggi is a former two-division world champion holding the IBF super lightweight title, as well as the WBA welterweight title. Malignaggi transitioned into the field of commentary in the past decade, in which he was quickly regarded as one of the best young voices in broadcast journalism, and his vibrant personality has earned him a close connection with the fans. 

Antonio Tarver is a five-time light heavyweight champion, holding the WBC and IBF titles two times, and the WBA title for good measure. Tarver has been in some of the greatest fights, and is now calling some of the modern great bouts on BLK Prime.

Zab Judah is a former two-division, six-time world champion holding the IBF light welterweight title on two different occasions, as well as the WBO light welterweight title, the WBA, WBC, and IBF welterweight world titles. Judah is widely considered one of the best fighters of his era and was the last undisputed champion at welterweight.

Cheyenne McCargo is a popular YouTuber, with thousands tuning into his daily livestreams. McCargo will offer the voice of the fans for the BLK Prime broadcast, scoring the undercard bouts. 

# # #

Tickets are priced at $50, $75, $125, $200, $350, and $500 for Crawford vs. Avanesyan are on sale now and are available for purchase at www.ticketmaster.com. This event is promoted by NextGen Boxing, Bash Boxing, and BLK Prime. Doors open at 4:30 pm CT with the first fight starting at 5:30 pm CT.

Terence “Bud” Crawford (38-0, 29 KOs) will make his triumphant return to the ring when he battles WBO #6 ranked David Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs) at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Neb. on December 10, 2022. The 12-round bout will air live on BLK Prime PPV, with Crawford’s WBO welterweight title on the line.

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 #CrawfordAvanesyan, on Instagram @BLKPRIMEBOXNG @BLKPRIME, on Twitter @BLKPRIMEBOXING, on Facebook @BLKPRIMEMEDIA

WASHINGTON, D.C. – December 5, 2022 – Three star-studded undercard attractions highlight  a can’t-miss night of boxing on Saturday, January 7 on SHOWTIME PPV when undefeated five-time world champion and boxing superstar Gervonta “Tank” Davis takes on unbeaten world champion Héctor Luis García in the main event from Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

In the co-main event, unbeaten rising star Jaron “Boots” Ennis returns to action to take on the IBF No.4-rated welterweight Karen Chukhadzhian for the Interim IBF Welterweight Title, while unbeaten welterweight contender Rashidi Ellis faces the hard-hitting Roiman Villa in a high-octane 12-round duel. Kicking off the pay-per-view telecast at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT, undefeated two-division world champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade steps into the ring for a 10-round super middleweight clash against Laurel, Maryland-native Demond Nicholson.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased online at ticketmaster.com and capitalonearena.com. The Ennis vs. Chukhadzhian bout is promoted in association with D&D Boxing.

“With a blockbuster main even matchup, it is fitting that the pay-per-view undercard will be jam-packed from top to bottom with some of the sport’s best and most intriguing fighters in high-stakes clashes,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Jaron Ennis, Demetrius Andrade and Rashidi Ellis have all shown off their immense talent throughout their careers and will all look to take important steps on January 7 in Washington, D.C. Ennis is one of the sport’s bright young stars and will be looking to move even closer to a world title fight, while Ellis is deep into his own ascent on the 147-pound crown. Kicking off the telecast is the dangerous two-division champion Andrade, who can send a message to the rest of the 168-pound division when he opens the pay-per-view. This card is lined up to deliver from open to close and has all the makings of a night of non-stop action.” 

Ennis (29-0, 27 KOs) is the latest in the pantheon of outstanding Philadelphia fighters, combining elite boxing skills with natural power in both hands. After two appearances on SHOBOX: The New Generation^®, the 25-year-old Ennis graduated to headlining his first SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast in April 2021, as he became the first fighter to stop former world champion Sergey Lipinets. He followed up that performance with an impressive first-round stoppage of Thomas Dulorme in October of that year, before most recently blasting out Custio Clayton in two rounds in May in his ninth appearance on SHOWTIME^®. The knockout victory gave Ennis 19 KOs in his last 20 fights, with the only blemish being a no-decision in the first round against Chris van Heerden in December 2020.

“I can’t wait to start 2023 off right by putting on another explosive performance for my fans,” said Ennis. “I respect all my opponents and am training harder than ever to come out victorious on January 7 to move one step closer to becoming world champion. Next year is going to be the most significant year of my career and it all starts with this fight. My time is now.”

The 26-year-old Chukhadzhian (21-1, 11 KOs) rose up the IBF rankings with a pair of stoppage victories in 2022, dispatching of Ryan Martin in eight rounds in January prior to retiring Blake Minto after six rounds in July. A native of Kiev, Ukraine, Chukhadzhian now fights out of Germany as he prepares to make his U.S. debut on January 7. The only blemish on his record came in his second pro fight, a three-round split-decision loss in a tournament-style bout.

“When the offer to fight Jaron Ennis came to us, we immediately agreed,” said Chukhadzhian. “Ennis is a very good boxer. However, both Armenian and Ukrainian blood flows through my veins, and I’m not traveling to the U.S. for a check, but with the goal of showing that all of the hard work we put in was not in vain. We are preparing in the gym, where there is no water and light because of the war. But what doesn’t break us only makes us stronger. I’m confident I will have my hand raised on January 7!”

The 29-year-old Ellis (24-0, 15 KOs) returned to the ring for the first time since October 2020 in July, blasting out Jose Marruffo in the first round. His previous outing had seen him earn an impressive unanimous decision over the previously unbeaten Alexis Rocha. Originally from Lynn, Mass., Ellis also owns a pair of victories over veteran contender Eddie Gomez, including a first-round knockout over Gomez in December 2016, before winning by unanimous decision in their 2019 rematch.

“I’m grateful to be stepping into the ring on such a big card to show off my talents,” said Ellis. “I want to thank my whole team for this opportunity and I can’t wait to make the most of it on January 7. I’m ready to go out and accomplish my goals. I’m coming to take care of the welterweight division one fight at a time.”

A native of Rosario, Venezuela, Villa (25-1, 24 KOs) earned a career-best victory in his most recent bout, as he made a memorable U.S. debut by dropping the previously unbeaten Janelson Bocachica on his way to a unanimous decision in a September edition of SHOBOX: The New Generation. The 29-year-old has fought professionally since 2015, scoring knockouts in all of his first 24 victories prior to the decision in his last bout. The only blemish on Villa’s record came via a narrow split-decision against Marcos Villasana in a 12-round 2019 bout.

“I am having a great training camp right now and preparing to be at my very best on January 7,” said Villa. “I’m looking forward to being able to show all my power and preparation in my next fight against Rashidi Ellis. This is my chance to show that I’m going to be a world champion in the welterweight division.”

A 2008 U.S. Olympian^® from Providence, Rhode Island, Andrade (31-0, 19 KOs) has captured world titles at 154 and 160-pounds as he now embarks toward becoming a three-division world champion. The 34-year-old captured the 154-pound title with a 2013 victory over Vanes Martirosyan and went on to defend the belt four times before moving up to middleweight. At 160-pounds, Andrade won a dominant decision over Walter Kautondokwa in October 2018 to win a vacant world title, before putting together a string of five consecutive title defenses, including most recently stopping Jason Quigley in two rounds in November 2021.

“My goal right now is to become a three-division world champion,” said Andrade. “Super middleweight is a stacked division with more characters to make some great fights for the fans. I hope Demond Nicholson has a safe camp and brings his very best to the table so that we can have a great showing on this card. I’m ready to display my talent and skill on my journey to becoming a three-division world champion.”

Currently riding a three-bout winning streak, Nicholson (26-4-1, 22 KOs) will look to impress on the big stage not far from his hometown of Laurel, Maryland. The 29-year-old’s current run came after a 2021 decision defeat against Edgar Berlanga, and most recently saw him stop Christopher Brooker in August.

“This is a great opportunity for me to attack my dreams,” said Nicholson. “A win on January 7 is going to get me closer to accomplishing the goals I have in this lifetime. I am ready for anything my opponent is going to bring to the ring, so the fans should expect a great fight for as long as this one lasts.”

#         #         #

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

Tyson Fury beat up and battered Dereck Chisora and scored a 10th round stoppage in front of over 60,000 fans at Tottenham Spur Stadium in London, England.

Fury hurt Chisora throughout the fight and closed his right eye. The fight could have been stopped anytime for the last several rounds and was finally and mercifully called off at 2:51.

This was the third win for Fury in a trilogy with Chisora

Fury, 268.6 lbs of Manchester, ENG is 33-0-1 with 24 knockout. Chisora, 260.6 lbs is 32-13.

Daniel DuBois survived three first-round knockdowns, but came back to defend his WBA “Regular” Heavyweight title with a third-round stoppage over Kevin Lerena.

It was a tumultuous round one for DuBois as he ate a right hook to the top of the head that staggered him and put him on the canvas. DuBois then went down on his own for a second knockdown. A left seemed to put Dubois down again. In round three, DuBois turned the tables by dropping Lerena with a right hand, DuBois ended the fight by landing a huge uppercut that snapped Lerena’s head and the fight was stopped just as the bell to end the round sounded.

DuBois, 240.3 lbs of London, ENG is 19-1 with 18 knockouts. Lerena, 230.9 lbs of Johannesburg, SA is 28-2.

Denys Berinchyk won a 12-round unanimous decision over Yvan Mendy in a lightweight bout.

Berinchyk, 134.75 lbs of Kiev, UKR won by scores of 117-112 and 116-112 twice and is now 17-0. Mendy, 134.6 lbs is 47-6.

Karol Itauma remained undefeated with an eighth and final round stoppage over Vladimir Belujsky in a light heavyweight bout.

In round seven, Itauma sent Belujsky to the canvas with a flurry to the head. In round eight, Itauma contimued to beat up Belujsky and the bout was stopped at 1:19.

Itauma, 177.1 lbs of Kent, ENG is 9-0 with seven knockouts. Belujsky, 176.6 lbs of Cork, IRE is 12-4-1.

Royston Barney Smith made quick work of Cruz Perez by scoring an opening round stoppage in their four-round lightweight bout.

Smith landed a perfect counter left that spun the head of Cruz and sent him to the canvas, and the fight was stopped at

Smith, 133.8 lbs of Southampton, ENG is 4-0 with two knockouts. Perez, 133.25 lbs of Nicaragua of 3-4.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – December 5, 2022 – Undefeated five-time world champion and boxing superstar Gervonta “Tank” Davis will make his highly anticipated return to the nation’s capital to defend his WBA World Lightweight Title against unbeaten world champion Héctor Luis García on Saturday, January 7, headlining a SHOWTIME PPV from Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Davis has established himself as one of boxing’s hottest, must-see attractions, capturing five world titles through three divisions with dramatic knockouts and selling out arenas from Los Angeles to Atlanta to New York. The Baltimore-native will return to fight in D.C. for the first time since 2016, when he headlines against the dangerous and streaking Héctor Luis García, needing a win to pave the way for the recently announced blockbuster clash against unbeaten star Ryan Garcia in the spring of 2023.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased online at ticketmaster.com and capitalonearena.com.

“SHOWTIME^® is coming out of the gate strong in 2023 with this hard-hitting card headlined by the sport’s most vibrant star, Gervonta Davis,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “Gervonta could have taken a softer touch before meeting Ryan Garcia in the spring. Instead, he’s facing a strong candidate for the 2022 Fighter of the Year in the dangerous Hector Luis Garcia and giving back to his fans with this tremendous matchup. We’re thrilled to return to the nation’s capital for the first time since 2016 for what should be an unforgettable start to the New Year for boxing fans.” 

“We’re ready to welcome boxing back to the big stage in the DMV region after 17 years,” said Jordan Silberman, General Manager, Capital One Arena. “It’s an honor to host ‘Tank’, a Baltimore native, and Héctor Luis García for what will no doubt be a special night at Capital One Arena.”

Davis (27-0, 25 KOs) currently holds the WBA Lightweight Title and will attempt his fourth defense when he meets Hector Luis Garcia. Davis delivered yet another highlight reel performance in his last bout, blasting out the previously unbeaten Rolando Romero with a powerful left hand in the sixth round of their May 2022 encounter.

In 2021, Davis became a three-division world champion by capturing a 140-pound title with a brilliant stoppage over then-unbeaten Mario Barrios, before turning away top lightweight contender Isaac Cruz in a successful December 5 title defense. In October 2020, Davis scored a sensational knockout over Leo Santa Cruz, making him the first person to ever drop the four-division champion. Davis’ elite ability, coupled with his explosive knockout power, has made him a rising force in the sport ever since bursting onto the scene with an explosive knockout victory over Jose Pedraza in 2017. Boasting a knockout rate over 92%, Davis captured his lightweight championship with a 12th-round KO of former unified champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in December 2019.

“I’m very excited to be fighting again in the DMV,” said Davis. “I can’t wait to see all my day one supporters, family, friends, and fans come together for a big fight party. My opponent is an Olympian^® and a world champion who’s proven to the boxing world that he is a tremendous competitor. I’m in camp working hard and I’ll be ready on January 7 to make this a statement fight for all my future opponents. Make sure you get your tickets now, because this fight is going to be a sellout for sure! Keep supporting me and I’ll fight for you!”

The WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Héctor Luis García (16-0, 10 KOs) is coming off a spectacular 2022 highlighted by two marquee victories. García has fought professionally since December of 2016 after a stellar amateur career that included representing his native Dominican Republic in the 2016 Olympics^® and a runner-up finish at the 2015 Pan-Am Games in Toronto.

Now training in Las Vegas under the watchful eye of respected trainer Bob Santos, García scored one of the biggest upsets of 2022 in February, when he dropped and defeated then-unbeaten Chris Colbert. In August, García captured the world title with a one-sided unanimous decision over incumbent Roger Gutierrez, making him a strong candidate for Fighter of the Year honors. The 31-year-old stands at 5-foot-9 and will own a sizeable height advantage over Davis when he makes his lightweight debut on January 7.

“I want to thank my whole team, along with Gervonta Davis, for the opportunity to face one of the best fighters in the world,” said García. “This is going to elevate my game and ultimately, it’s going to give the fans an all-time classic that they won’t forget. On January 7, Gervonta Davis and I are going to produce a war that is going to go down as one of the great fights in history and will solidify my name with the greats.”

The pay-per-view telecast is produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV and marks the return of SHOWTIME BOXING^® to the Capital One Arena location for the first time since June 11, 2005, for Mike Tyson’s farewell fight with Kevin McBride. It also represents the return of SHOWTIME and big-time boxing to the nation’s capital for the first time since April 30, 2016. 

#         #         #

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