CAN “Monster” XU LOSES DECISION TO BRANDON “Leoncito” BENITEZ; CESAR “Rainman” FRANCIS KO’S FRANCISCO “Roca” ARMENTA
Tampa, Florida, October 8, 2022 — On Friday, October 7 in the main event on ProBox TV, Former World Champion Can “Monster” Xu lost a split decision in his ring return against Brandon “Leoncito” Benitez. The scores were 96-94, 96-94 for Benitez and 97-93 for Xu.
“On paper it’s an upset but the scoring, for me, the right guy won the fight,” said Paulie Malignaggi from ringside. “Xu can fight at a high level and Benitez proved tonight that he can fight at a high level. In the latter half of the fight Benitez was starting the exchanges and finishing the exchanges. But Xu stayed in his face the whole time. That was a good, entertaining fight and I wouldn’t mind seeing it again.”
Roy Jones Jr followed up with: “Xu cameo out on the attack frequently landing the jab but then by round 4 Benitez began countering with combinations. Xu was landing a nice overhand right but didn’t throw it enough and Benitez was landing about 6 shots to every one of Xu’s.”
In the co-featured bout, Cesar “Rainman” Francis KO’d Francisco “Roca” Armenta with an uppercut in round two.
Francis rocked Armenta in the opening seconds of round two then landed a right uppercut at 2:39. Armenta hit the canvas and Roy Jones Jr stated: “Armenta is out cold.” Armenta landed flat on his back, the referee sent Francis to the neutral corner then knelt over Armenta and waved the fight off at 2:31.
“It was a beautiful performance,” said Francis following the KO. “I worked hard. My corner made it a tough training camp and listen, I got the knockout baby. People don’t realize I have a lot of experience. I have been in the game of boxing my whole life since I was eight. This is incredible. You have the 140 lb. “rain man” right here and ProBox TV has a great promotion, and they have a great fighter right here.”
As is customary on ProBox TV, “The Big Four,” comprising of Roy Jones Jr, Juan Manuel Marquez, Paulie Malignaggi and Antonio Tarver, will called the fights from ringside. Michael Goldberg handled blow-by-blow, and Claudia Trejos was the ringside reporter and post-fight interviewer.
It is $1.99 per month for a ProBox TV subscription.
Friday, October 7 Results:
10 Rounds
Benitez Wins Split Decision 96-94, 96-94, 93-97
125.6 lbs. Can Xu, Beijing, China, Former WBA Featherweight Champion, 18-4, 3 KO vs.
147 lbs. Cesar Francis, Brooklyn, NY via San Miguelito, Panama, 12-0 7 KO’s. vs. 140 lbs. Francisco Armenta, Los Mochis, Sinaloa, MX, 12-2, 4 KO’s
Scheduled 6 Rounds
Valsaint Wins by TKO 2
162 lbs. Darrelle Valsaint, Orlando, FL, 6-0 5 KO’s vs.
160.8 lbs. Paul Mendez, Delano, California, 21-4-2 11 KO’s
8 Rounds
Islam Wins Unanimous Decision 80-71, 80-71, 80-71
162.6 lbs. Kanat Islam, California via Altay, China, 28-1 22 KO’s vs.
166.8 lbs. Javier Maciel, Buenos Aires, Argentina, 34-17 23 KO’s
ProBox TV was originally founded by Roy Jones Jr., Juan Manuel Marquez, Paulie Malignaggi, Antonio Tarver and CEO Garry Jonas. Miguel Cotto recently joined the group. In 2023 there will be one fight card per month streamed on ProBox TV in each of the USA, Puerto Rico (Cotto Promotions) and Mexico (Marquez Promotions).
Number-one ranked Liam Paro solidified his spot with a one-punch knockout of fellow undefeated Brock Jarvis in the opening round of their 12-round bout in Brisbane, Australia.
In round one, Paro landed a perfect left hand that put Jarvis flat on his back and he could not get up, and the fight was over at 2:29.
Paro, 136 lbs of Brisbane, AUS is 23-0 with 14 knockouts. Jarvis, 139.9 lbs of New South Wales is 20-1.
World-ranked heavyweight Demsey McKean stopped Patrick Korte in round three of their 10-round heavyweight bout.
In round one, Korte was cut over his right eye. In round four, McKean dumped Korte on the canvas with a left uppercut that was followed by a left and a right to the chin and the fight was over at 2:59.
McKean, 252.6 lbs of Brisbane, AUS is now 22-0 with 14 knockouts. Korte, 234.1 lbs of Germany is 18-2-1.
Syke Nicolson won a 10-round unanimous decision over Krystyna Jacobs in a featherweight bout.
In round four, Nicolson dropped Jacobs with a right hook.
Nicolson, 127.6 lbs won by scores of 100-89, 99-90 and 98-91 and is now 5-0. Jacobs, 125.1 lbs is 6-4.
Cesar Mateo Tapia scored a 10-round unanimous decision over Abdouleye Sakho in a battle of undefeated super middleweights.
Tapia, 167.2 lb won by scores of 99-91 and 97-93 twice and is now 15-0. Sakho, 167.4 lbs is 7-1.
Rocky Ogden stopped Ben Cameron Hands in the opening round of their eight-round super featherweight bout.
In the opening frame, Ogden landed a hard right to the head that sent Hands to the canvas and the bout was stopped at 2:33.
Ogden, 129.9 lbs of Gold Coast, QUE, AUS is 3-0 with one knockout. Hands, 129.2 lbs of Sunshine Coast is 3-1.
Jalen Tait stopped Rhys Evans after round six of their eight-round lightweight bout.
In round five, Tait dropped Evans with a body shot. In round six, Evans was cut over his left eye. The doctor took a look at the cut and the bout was stopped.
Tait, 134 lbs of Townsville, AUS is 10-0 with six knockouts. Evans, 134.1 lbs was making his pro debut.
Dylan Biggs remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Marko Pizzi in a junior middleweight fight.
Biggs, 153 lbs of Queensland, AUS won by scores of 80-72 twice and 78-74 and is now 7-0. Pizzi, 153.4 lbs of Sydney, AUS is 4-3.
SEBASTIAN FUNDORA VS. CARLOS OCAMPO FINAL WEIGHTS AND COMMISSION OFFICIALS FOR SATURDAY’S SHOWTIME® TRIPLEHEADER
WBC Super Welterweight Interim Title – 12 Rounds
Sebastian Fundora – 153 ½ lbs.
Carlos Ocampo – 153 ½ lbs.
Referee: Jack Reiss; Judges: Daniel Fitzgerald (Massachusetts), Rudy Barragan (Calif.), Lou Moret (Calif.)
WBC Middleweight Interim Title – 12 Rounds
Carlos Adames – 159 ¼ lbs.
Juan Macias Montiel – 160 lbs.
Referee: Ray Corona; Judges: Pat Russell (Calif.), Jerry Cantu (Calif.), Josef Mason (Colo.)
Referee: Gerard White; Judges: Ivan Guillermo (Calif.), Jerry Cantu (Calif.), Ralph McKnight (Calif.)
Featherweight Bout – 10 Rounds
Victor Slavinksyi – 126 ½ lbs.
Edward Vazquez – 129 ½ lbs.
Referee: Ray Corona; Judges: Pat Russell (Calif.), Rudy Barragan (Calif.), Ralph McKnight (Calif.)
** Contracted weight 127 lbs.; Fight is on.
Women’s Flyweight Bout – 10 Rounds
Gabriela Fundora – 111 ¼ lbs.
Naomi Reyes – 111 ½ lbs.
Referee: Eddie Hernandez Sr.; Judges: Pat Russell (Calif.), Ivan Guillermo (Calif.), Ralph McKnight (Calif.)
Veteran sportscaster Brian Custer will host the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo will handle blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion Abner Mares. Three Hall of Famers round out the telecast team – Emmy® award winning reporter Jim Gray, world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon, Jr. and boxing historian Steve Farhood as unofficial scorer. The executive producer is four-time Emmy award winner David Dinkins, Jr. with Bob Dunphy directing. Former junior middleweight world champion and SHOBOX: The New Generation® commentator Raúl “El Diamante” Marquez and sportscaster Alejandro Luna serve as expert analysts in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP). SHOBOX announcer and combat sports expert
Brian Campbell and his MORNING KOMBAT co-host Luke Thomas will call the action during the live-stream bouts.
# # #
ABOUT FUNDORA VS. OCAMPO
Fundora vs. Ocampo will see unbeaten super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora seek to continue his dominance and demonstrate why he’s one of the most feared fighters in boxing when he defends his Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title against former title challenger Carlos Ocampo live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, October 8 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California headlining a thrilling Premier Boxing Champions event.
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast will see top middleweights Carlos Adames and Juan Macias Montiel square off for the Interim WBC Middleweight Title in the co-main event, while IBF Junior Bantamweight World Champion Fernando Martinez meets former champion Jerwin Ancajas in a highly-anticipated 12-round rematch to open the telecast at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
UPDATED SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION® CARD FEATURES EXPLOSIVE PROSPECT ISAIAH STEEN FACING BIG-PUNCHING SENA AGBEKO FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21 LIVE ON SHOWTIME®
NEW YORK – October 7, 2022 – Fast-rising blue-chip prospect Isaiah Steen will get a chance to slingshot himself up the super middleweight rankings when he takes on dangerous power-puncher Sena Agbeko on Friday, October 21 live on SHOWTIME at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT in the latest edition of SHOBOX: The New Generation. The telecast features four undefeated prospects and six fighters with a combined record of 87-3-2 and returns to Bally’s Atlantic City Casino and Resort, site of the first SHOBOX® 21 years ago, for the second time in two months.
The heavy-handed Agbeko (26-2, 21 KOs) steps in to face Steen (16-0, 12 KOs) in the 10-round main event at 168 pounds after light heavyweight prospect Ali Izmailov withdrew from his main event with Radivoje “Hot Rod” Kalajdzic for health reasons. Both Steen and Agbeko are SHOBOX alumni, making their contest a classic crossroads matchup of prospects to determine who’s a contender and who has to work to get back into position in the division.
“Steen vs. Agbeko is an exciting main event and the winner of the fight will be a bona fide world title contender in the super middleweight division,” said promoter Dmitriy Salita. “This is an amazing matchup on a talent-stacked card featuring nothing but pick ‘em fights.”
The co-feature will match Sean Hemphill (14-0, 8 KOs) against David Stevens (11-0, 8 KOs) in an intriguing eight-round super middleweight contest between undefeated American prospects. Opening the broadcast will be perennial spoiler and SHOBOX alum Marquis Taylor (12-1-2, 1 KO) taking on undefeated Marlon Harrington (8-0, 7 KOs) in an eight-round super welterweight attraction. Included in the telecast will be highlights of an intriguing eight-round clash between undefeated heavyweight prospects Moses Johnson (8-0-1, 7 KOs) and four-time Oregon Golden Gloves champion Elvis Garcia (12-0, 9 KOs).
The chiseled Agbeko represents the most accomplished opponent of Steen’s career, having gone the distance against undefeated contender and highly decorated amateur Vladimir Shishkin in February 2021 on SHOBOX. Agbeko has since won three straight matches, all by stoppages. Most recently he TKO’d then 22-1-1 Winfred Harris Jr. this past July to earn this shot. Originally from Accra, Ghana, home to many top Ghanaian boxers, such as two-division champion Azuman Nelson, Agbeko now calls Nashville, Tenn., home.
“I’m so excited for this opportunity. This is what I train for, to fight on the biggest stages,” Agbeko said. “I know he’s young and he’s hungry and has also been previously featured on the SHOBOX series but it’s not going to be easy for him. It’s going to be a battle of wills and may the better man win.”
Steen returns to SHOBOX after recording the biggest win of his career against the previously undefeated Kalvin Henderson on July 2021 on SHOBOX (Highlights HERE). An aggressive, come-forward fighter who likes to dig to the body, Steen is the half-brother of super welterweight contender and former U.S. Olympian Charles Conwell. The two shared the same card in August 2020 when Steen of Cleveland, Ohio showed off his power with a first-round TKO of tough Kenneth Council. That was the seventh time Steen stopped his opponent in the first round. Like his half-brother, the 6-2 Steen was a decorated amateur, going 85-15 in the unpaid ranks before he turned pro in 2016. Born in Detroit, Mich., Steen started boxing when he was seven.
“I’m grateful for this amazing opportunity,” Steen said, “and looking forward to facing a great opponent in Agbeko and showcasing my skills.”
Tickets for the event promoted by Salita Promotions are on sale now priced at $40, $100 and $150 and can be purchased at TicketWeb.com.
Hall of Famer Barry Tompkins calls the action from ringside with veteran combat sports reporter and MORNING KOMBAT host Brian Campbell and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts with Hall of Famer Steve Farhood remotely performing unofficial scoring duties.
SHOBOX: The New Generation is executive produced by Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, SHOBOX: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The SHOBOX philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 86 fighters who have appeared on SHOBOX and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.
CAN XU’S RING RETURN IS FRIDAY & IT HAS GENERATED OVER 250,000 DOWNLOADS OF THE PROBOX TV APP – THIS WEEK ALONE – IN CHINA
Plant City, Florida, October 7, 2022 – China sensation and former world champion Can “Monster” Xu battles Brandon Benitez in the main event Friday, October 7, on ProBox TV and the anticipation of his fans back home is tremendous. There have been over 250,000 downloads of the ProBox TV app this week alone.
“We are pleased but we are not surprised at the allure Xu has in China, and it can be seen in the numbers,” said ProBox TV CEO Garry Jonas. “Can Xu is the Mexican equivalent of Canelo, and China has ten times the population of Mexico.”
“I took this fight here on ProBox TV because of the relationship they have with China,” said Xu. “My desire is to carry the Chinese flag with pride and promote the sports in my home country. I see this as a great opportunity to show the young men and women of China all of the opportunities that come with boxing.”
This evening’s ProBox TV card begins at 9 pm ET / 6 pm PT.
ProBox TV was originally founded by Roy Jones Jr., Juan Manuel Marquez, Paulie Malignaggi, Antonio Tarver and CEO Garry Jonas. Miguel Cotto recently joined the group. In 2023 there will be one fight card per month streamed on ProBox TV in each of the USA, Puerto Rico (Cotto Promotions) and Mexico (Marquez Promotions).
After discussions with various parties, we have taken the decision to formally postpone the bout between Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn.
It is undeniable that the British Boxing Board of Control’s decision to withdraw their sanctioning was procedurally flawed and without due process. That remains a legal issue between the promoters and the Board which we intend to pursue.
However, whilst there are legal routes to facilitate the fight taking place as planned, we do not believe that it is in the fighters’ interests for those to be pursued at such a late stage, or in the wider interests of the sport. As promoters, we take our obligations and duties very seriously, and a full investigation will now need to take place. We will be making no further comment at this time and news for ticket holder refunds will follow.
Granite Chin Promotions to pay tribute to late trainer Jimmy Farrell
QUINCY, Mass. (October 6, 2022) – Granite Chin Promotions will pay tribute to the late trainer Jimmy Farrell on Thanksgiving Eve, November 23rd, with the presentation of the inaugural “Jimmy Farrell Fight Night” at the Bridgewater Veterans Club in Bridgewater, Massachusetts.
Farrell, the well-respected trainer from Quincy (MA), recently passed away after a long battle with cancer. He fought in the 1970’s as a featherweight, compiling a 17-4-3 (6 KOs) pro record. He trained under his father, the late Jim Farrell, Jr., as well as Hall of Famer Cus D’Amato.
Jimmy operated several gyms in the Quincy area during his training career that spanned nearly five decades. He trained more than 40 amateur boxing champions, in addition to numerous professionals such as Chris and Vinnie Traieti, Mark DeLuca, Ryan Kielczewski, Steve Vukosa, Nick Cyr, Nick and Mike Morganelli.
(L-R) – Derrick Whitley, Chris Traietti, and the late Jimmy Farrell
“Jimmy was and always will be a huge part of my life,” Granite Chin president Chris Traietti commented. “The days in the gym, the crazy road trips, the wins, the losses, and life lessons will be stuff that I will cherish for as long as I live. Jimmy was a larger-than-life person who was the most popular guy in any room he walked into. He had no hesitation in saying what was on his mind in his own ‘Jimmy Farrell charm.’ When his friend Dan O’Malley gave his eulogy, the thing that stood out the most was everyone knew him as ‘Jimmy.’ You don’t have to say his last name, everyone in the boxing world when you mentioned ‘Jimmy,’ you were talking about Jimmy Farrell. He was an unbelievable trainer who lived boxing. I’ve never met anyone more passionate about anything the way Jimmy was about boxing. He loved all levels of the sport. He was as passionate about working with a kid who was in the gym for the first time as he was about working with nationally ranked amateurs or a top local pro. So, it is only fitting to do a Pro-Am in his memory.
Along with his family – they were amazing – Old Colony Hospice was great helping Jimmy’s family care for him in the final days. Everyone went above and beyond to send Jimmy into the afterlife with dignity. I am looking forward to donating part of our sponsorships, gate, and 50/50 raffle sales to this great organization to help them continue the work they do.”
“Jimmy Farrell Fight Night” will feature a Pro-Am card, topped by a 6-round battle between Anthony “The Gentle Savage” Andreozzi (3-2, 1 KOs), of Swansea (MA), and Woburn’s Julien “Black Dragon” Baptiste (4-2, 2 KOs) for the vacant Massachusetts State Welterweight Championship.
The Andreozzi vs. Baptiste title fight was originally scheduled this past August 6th at the same venue, but Andreozzi came down ill on fight night and that fight was canceled.
Atlanta light heavyweight James “Savage “ Hagler, Jr. (3-1, 1 KO) – the grandson of Hall of Famer Marvelous Marvin Hagler – takes on Scott “Bombz” Lampert (3-6, 2 KOs) in the 4-found co-featured event.
Additional pro matches, as well as the amateur portion of the card, will soon be announced.
Tickets are priced at $60.00 (floor seats), $40.00 (standing room only), and $400.00 for ringside tables of 4 are available for purchase at https://granite-chin-promotions.ticketleap.com.
Doors open at 6 p.m. ET, first bout at 7 p.m. ET.
INFORMATION:
Facebook.com/GraniteChin
Twitter: @Granite_Chin
Weights from Bensalem, PA
BENSALEM, PA (OCTOBER 6, 2022)–Weights for Friday night’s Joe Hand Promotions card at Parx Casino
Joey Dawejko 256.6 – Terrell Jamal Woods 242
Kevin Ford 124.4 – D’Angelo Fuentes 126.6
Daiyann Butt 143.3 – Juan De La Cruz Rodriguez 144
DAVIES & BALUTA TO BATTLE FOR EURO GLORY IN TELFORD, 19 NOVEMBER
THE QUEENSBERRY PAIR of Liam Davies and Ionut Baluta will contest the vacant European super bantamweight championship at the Telford International Centre on Saturday November 19, exclusively live on BT Sport.
The bumper Telford card includes David Avanesyan defending his European welterweight title for a sixth time against his mandatory challenger Jon Miguez from Spain, and will also see the return of Anthony Yarde ahead of his world title business in early 2023.
Tickets for Davies vs Baluta at the Telford International Centre on Saturday November 19 are on sale now, available exclusively from ticketmaster.co.uk.
Telford native Davies, 26, has enjoyed a remarkable run since becoming a Queensberry fighter, with four straight wins resulting in a successful shot at the WBC International Silver belt and, last time out in June, becoming British champion by defeating the title holder Marc Leach via a unanimous decision to take his professional record to 12-0 (5 KOs).
The now Bushey-based Romanian Baluta, 28, holds a record of 15-3 (3 KOs) and in May he inflicted defeat on Brad Foster to become WBC International champion. A former WBO European title holder at bantamweight, Baluta has victories over Irish stars TJ Doheny and David Oliver Joyce on his record and only lost by a narrow margin to Michael Conlan.
Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs) returns to action after making short work of the previously unbeaten Oskari Metz at Wembley in March.
The 34-year-old is on a run of six stunning stoppages and remains firmly in position for a shot at the WBC world title.
Miguez (17-0, 8 KOs) fought a British fighter last time out in his home country of Spain, defeating James Moorcroft via a sixth round stoppage. The former Spanish welterweight champion won the EBU European Union title with a points success over Aitor Nieto in March of this year.
Yarde (22-2, 21 KOs) will be back in the ring for the first time since his resounding rematch victory over Lyndon Arthur in December of last year.
He is next in line for a shot at unified world champion Artur Beterbiev and this major collision at light heavyweight will take place in January. The fight was originally scheduled for October of this year but an injury sustained by the WBO, WBC and IBF champion resulted in the delay and Yarde preparing with a warm-up fight.
Local lad Davies is thrilled that he will once again enjoy home advantage and keep the boxing momentum going in Telford.
“It is good for myself and the town really, bringing boxing back,” he said. “That is what I wanted to do, it was always part of the plan and now I am in a position where it is happening, so I am grateful.
“I get a lot of feedback locally. Last time it was great, we sold a lot of tickets and it was busy. This time I am sure there will be even more eyes on it, with it being another big fight. It gives you that bit more motivation to do the business because, with it being in your hometown, you want to make sure you win in style.
“Baluta has had some good wins and he throws a lot, so I think he will be there to be hit and that will work in my favour. It will definitely be my toughest fight and they are all coming at the right time for me.
“I am on a roll now, on the way up and I will take every fight as it comes. The European title is another step up and I am more than ready.”
For his part, Baluta issued a short and sharp message to his fellow challenger for the prestigious European honour.
“I can’t wait for this fight. This belt is mine. Davies, you will feel sorry for accepting this fight.”
Also appearing on the Telford card is a fight where two prospects put it all on the line, the unbeaten super lightweight Eithan James (9-0) from Northampton goes up against Connor Parker (14-1, 1 KO), Zach Parker’s cousin from Woodville in Derbyshire, for the vacant WBO European title.
“Telford is once again playing host to what will be a quality night of fights topped by two European title clashes,” added promoter Frank Warren. “The European super bantamweight clash between Liam Davies and Ionut Baluta will be a terrific scrap as neither fighter appears to possess a reverse gear.
“Liam has made massive strides since we teamed up with him and I was so impressed with the way he dealt with a particularly tricky customer in Marc Leach to win the British title.
“Ionut, who is the more experienced of the pair, showed his class in winning his WBC belt against Brad Foster and he will rightly consider himself a world level super bantam. This fight has got all the makings of a classic in what is a highly competitive division.
“David Avanesyan will once again demonstrate why he is best in class in Europe with a staggering sixth defence of his European welterweight title against an ambitious and unbeaten opponent in Jon Miguez.
“David is obviously thinking bigger than European titles, given his run of form, but until he gets a meaningful world level fight in the diary he is rightly not going to surrender his belt.
“I am delighted to be getting Anthony Yarde out in a keep-busy fight ahead of his world title challenge in January. There is always the temptation to simply play the waiting game but, with Artur Beterbiev not currently available due to injury, Anthony needs some time in the ring.
“Eithan James and Connor Parker were originally due to fight in June, but this was postponed due to Connor picking up an injury. We are getting it on again now with the WBO European title at stake and this should be a top fight between two young prospects willing to take a significant step up in class.”
Nottingham light heavyweight Ezra Taylor (3-0, 2), Telford super lightweight Macaulay Owen (3-0, 1), Dublin lightweight Willo Hayden (4-0, 1), Liverpool super bantam Brad Strand (8-0, 3), York super welter George Davey (5-0-1) and Telford bantam Raheem Muhammed (2-0) also feature on the show.
Tickets for Davies vs Baluta at the Telford International Centre on Saturday November 19 are on sale now, available exclusively from ticketmaster.co.uk.
THREE EXCITING SHOWDOWNS TO STREAM LIVE ON SHOWTIME SPORTS® DIGITAL PLATFORMS THIS SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8 BEGINNING AT 7:30 P.M. ET/4:30 P.M. PT
CARSON, CALIF. – October 6, 2022 – Three exciting showdowns featuring contenders and rising prospects will stream live on the SHOWTIME SPORTS YouTube channel and SHOWTIME® Boxing Facebook page this Saturday, October 8 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif.
With action kicking off at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT, the COUNTDOWN show, hosted by Luke Thomas and Brian Campbell, features veteran welterweight contenders Egidijus “Mean Machine” Kavaliauskas and Mykal Fox squaring off in a 10-round bout. Featherweight contenders Viktor Slavinskyi and Edward Vazquez alsomeet in an eight-round duel, while unbeaten flyweight prospect Gabriela Fundora,the younger sister of unbeaten headliner Sebastian Fundora, kicks off the show battling Mexico’s Naomi Reyes in a 10-round fight.
The preliminary bouts will lead up to a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT featuring Interim WBC Super Welterweight Champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora defending his belt against former title challenger Carlos Ocampo in the main event.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased at axs.com.
The stacked non-televised undercard lineup also includes unbeaten lightweight prospects Justin Cardona (8-0, 6 KOs) and Angel Alejandro (10-0, 4 KOs) in a six-round matchup, Filipino Olympic bronze medalist Eumir Marcial (2-0, 1 KO) taking on Steven Pichardo (8-2-1, 2 KOs) in a four-round middleweight attraction and super welterweight Brandon Lynch (11-1-1, 8 KOs) facing Argentina’s Roque Junco (11-12-1, 6 KOs) for eight-rounds of action.
Rounding out the card will be unbeaten Phoenix-native Elijah Garcia (11-0, 9 KOs) battling Mexico’s Edgar Valenzuela (7-1, 6 KOs) in a six-round middleweight duel, unbeaten featherweight Shon Mondragon (7-0-1, 3 KOs) in a six-round bout and featherweight Jose Perez (10-1-2, 4 KOs) stepping into the ring for a six-round showdown.
A two-time Olympian for his native Lithuania, Kavaliauskas (22-2-1, 18 KOs) now fights out of California as he seeks a second shot at a 147-pound world title. The 34-year-old came up short in his first attempt, dropping a 2019 title bout against Terence Crawford before most recently losing to unbeaten Vergil Ortiz Jr. in August 2021. He will be opposed by Maryland’s Fox (22-3, 5 KOs), who returns to the ring after dropping a controversial decision to Gabriel Maestre in August 2021. Standing at nearly six-feet-four-inches tall, the 26-year-old has used his size and boxing acumen to establish himself as a crafty contender in a pro career that dates back to 2014.
Originally from Ukraine and residing in Los Angeles, Slavinskyi (13-1-1, 6 KOs) will look to bounce back from his first defeat on October 8, which came via majority decision against hard-hitting contender Claudio Marrero in February. The 32-year-old had previously ridden a six-bout winning streak into that fight, which included a decision triumph over Leduan Barthelemy in June 2021. He will face the 27-year-old Vazquez (12-1, 3 KOs), a Fort Worth, Texas-native who most recently defeated Jose Argel in July. Vazquez’s only blemish came via split-decision against the unbeaten Raymond Ford in February.
Trained by her father Freddy alongside her brother Sebastian, Fundora (8-0, 4 KOs) has impressed since turning pro in May 2021, dominating her competition on her way to eight early wins. The 20-year-old from Coachella, Calif., will return to Dignity Health Sports Park for the third time after earning her first two pro victories at the venue. She will battle Nayarit, Mexico’s Reyes (9-1, 5 KOs), who turned pro in 2016 and suffered her only loss via decision in 2018. Since then, Reyes has put together five-straight victories, with four coming by stoppage.
# # #
ABOUT FUNDORA VS. OCAMPO
Fundora vs. Ocampo will see unbeaten super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora seek to continue his dominance and demonstrate why he’s one of the most feared fighters in boxing when he defends his Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title against former title challenger Carlos Ocampo live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, October 8 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif. headlining a thrilling Premier Boxing Champions event.
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will see top middleweights Carlos Adames and Juan Macias Montiel square off for the Interim WBC Middleweight Title in the co-main event, while IBF Junior Bantamweight World Champion Fernando Martinez meets former champion Jerwin Ancajas in a highly anticipated 12-round rematch to open the telecast at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
O’SHAQUIE FOSTER PLOTS WORLD DOMINATION AS REY VARGAS FIGHT CONFIRMED
LOS ANGELES, OCTBER 6 – A buzzing O’Shaquie Foster has promised he will dominate the super featherweight division after his world title shot was confirmed.
Foster has been ordered to face Mexico’s Rey Vargas for the vacant WBC 130lbs title, following the decision of champion Shakur Stevenson to move up in weight.
The sanctioning body has confirmed a “free negotiation” period has begun to stage the super featherweight showdown, and that the winner must make two mandatory title defences.
USA’s Foster (19-2, 11KOs) woke on Monday morning to messages on his phone, confirming the WBC’s ruling that he must face Vargas, who moves up a division having been world featherweight champ.
“It’s a dream come true,” Foster told Probellum.com. “And I’m so happy, I can’t even hide it.
“It’s something that I’ve been working for since I was eight years old. I never had a dream to be an Olympian, it was always to be a world champion so I’m feeling great and I’m ready to put on a show for the world.
“I feel like everything is happening at the right time and it’s my time to take over. I would love to unify once I get the title and then go undisputed if I can. I’ve got big, big, big aspirations coming up. We’re going to make it happen.”
The man known as ‘Ice Water’ had a strong feeling in his gut that the WBC would instruct him to face Vargas next, and so Foster spent time last week studying the man who would become his new rival.
“For some reason it was strongly fitting in my head that it might be Vargas next, just because he was a champion trying to move up,” Foster said.
“So, I paid attention to him a lot that day. I’ve got a good idea of what Vargas is about.
“I believe in fate, because if it wasn’t for fate, I wouldn’t be here. I’m here for a reason. I feel like everything’s happening at the right time. It’s all coming together.
“He’s not your typical Mexican fighter, he’s rangy, but I see the things that I can take advantage of. I don’t want to say too much now, because this is big, but most definitely see a lot a lot of things I would take advantage of.”
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About Probellum???
Launched in September 2021, Probellum is a global boxing promoter, and the fastest-growing brand in the sport.??
Following the success of the opening two shows in December 2021, Probellum held back-to-back world championship nights in Dubai as well as a packed card in Newcastle.
The world title action then headed Liverpool in April and Probellum returns to the city on Saturday, October 15 when Peter McGrail headlines before Sunny Edwards defends his world title in Sheffield on November 11.
Probellum’s elite stable of fighters also includes Nonito Donaire, Regis Prograis, Estelle Mossely, Sunny Edwards, Eimantas Stanionis and Dina Thorslund. ?
But the company has also recruited the next generation of stars with McGrail, Mark Dickinson and Pat and Luke McCormack, Shabaz Masoud and Spencer Wilcox among the young talents under the Probellum umbrella.???
NFL STAR LE’VEON BELL TO FACE UFC KNOCKOUT ARTIST URIAH HALL ON MOST VALUABLE PROMOTIONS JAKE PAUL VS. ANDERSON SILVA SHOWTIME PPV® EVENT SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29
NEW YORK – October 6, 2022 – Most Valuable Promotions and SHOWTIME SPORTS® today announced that former NFL star running back Le’Veon Bell and elite mixed martial arts striker Uriah Hall will face off in a professional boxing match on Saturday, October 29 as part of the SHOWTIME PPV event headlined by Jake “The Problem Child” Paul vs. UFC legend Anderson “The Spider” Silva at Desert Diamond Arena (formerly Gila River Arena) in Glendale, Ariz., just outside Phoenix. Both Bell and Hall will make their pro boxing debuts in a four-round cruiserweight bout contracted at 195 pounds and will come face to face for the first time during a virtual press conference on Thursday, October 13 hosted by Ariel Helwani. Tickets for Paul vs. Silva are on sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com.
A strong, intimidating presence with a piston-like right hand, Hall is a 38-year-old former MMA standout who made his mark in both UFC and BELLATOR as a vicious striker. Hall (17-11, 14 KOs MMA record) is tied with Silva and Thiago Silva (no relation) for the most KO/TKOs in UFC middleweight history with eight. Born in Jamaica and raised in New York, Hall showcased his finishing skills when he knocked out Adam Cella with a spinning back kick to the head in the first round of a bout in The Ultimate Fighter series. That performance earned him comparisons to MMA legend Anderson Silva. Hall and Silva eventually met in 2020 with Hall walking away with a fourth-round TKO. He went on to beat former UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman in April 2021 via first-round knockout as Weidman suffered a gruesome leg injury just 17 seconds into their bout. Hall started his career 4-0, highlighted by a TKO victory over Edwin Aguilar at BELLATOR 11. He is currently trained by Sayif Saud at the Fortis Gym in Dallas, Texas.
“Le’Veon Bell, I hope you bring your best,” said Hall. “I know I will. Thank you to Most Valuable Promotions for the opportunity.”
A former Michigan State standout and top NFL running back for both the Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Jets, Bell is no stranger to boxing. The Columbus, Ohio native spent the past seven years sharpening his boxing mechanics as he readied himself for the gridiron, and that fluency in a boxing ring was on display last month when he flattened legendary NFL running back Adrian Peterson with a one-punch knockout that quickly went viral. Bell and Peterson clashed in an exhibition bout that was conducted under the auspices of the California State Athletic Commission with CSAC officials. The bout ended in the fifth round when the 6-foot-1 Bell connected on a straight right hand that put Peterson on his back and rendered him unable to continue. It was a startling display of power, not unlike Jake Paul’s one-punch knockout of Tyron Woodley last December, and it showed off Bell’s commitment and proficiency in boxing. The 30-year-old Bell has relocated to Los Angeles, where he currently trains full time at the Fortune Gym under the watchful eye of respected, no-nonsense trainer Justin Fortune, famous for his work with boxing legend Manny Pacquiao. Known for his long strides and ability to stop on a dime and accelerate, Bell played in the NFL from 2013 to 2021, also suiting up for the Kansas City Chiefs, Baltimore Ravens and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He was a two-time First Team All-Pro, two-time Second Team All-Pro and three-time Pro Bowler.
“As soon as Most Valuable Promotions approached me about joining the Paul-Silva pay-per-view, I told them, ‘I want in,’ and didn’t care who the opponent was,” Bell said. “Uriah Hall is going to feel my punching power and tap out like he’s getting submitted. He is not built like me.”
“Adding NFL superstar Le’Veon Bell to the card only increases this fight’s star power and to have him go head-to-head with a fighter as experienced and dangerous as Uriah Hall – it’s going to be fireworks,” said Jake Paul. “Taking on this challenge is proof that Bell, like myself, is serious about professional boxing and after his knockout of Adrian Peterson, he looks like a force to be reckoned with. Hall on the other hand has already proven himself multiple times in the UFC, and we know what he is capable of. I’m keeping a close eye on this one and may even take on the winner in the future.”
“I’m just as excited to watch Hall vs. Bell as I am for Paul vs. Silva. You have a legitimate top-10 MMA striker versus a world-class athlete who has proven he has true boxing skills and knockout power,” said Nakisa Bidarian, co-founder of MVP. “This fight elevates our pay-per-view to a new level, and these guys will undoubtedly put on an unforgettable fight for the fans in the stands and those tuning in.”
International superstar and serial risk-taker Paul will face the biggest challenge of his career when he takes on UFC legend and accomplished boxer Silva in an eight-round bout at a catchweight of 187 pounds. In undercard action, teenage sensation Ashton Sylve will put his knockout streak on the line against Braulio Rodriguez in an eight-round lightweight bout contested at 133 pounds. Chris Avila, a disciple of UFC superstar Nate Diaz, will square off against “Doctor Mike” Varshavski, a board-certified family physician and social media influencer, in a four-round cruiserweight bout contracted at 185 pounds.
The Hall vs. Bell press conference hosted by Helwani will be held on Thursday, October 13 (1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT) and streamed live via the SHOWTIME SPORTS YouTube channel. The Paul vs. Silva event is co-produced by SHOWTIME PPV and Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) and promoted by Holden Boxing. The pay-per-view telecast is produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, follow #PaulSilva, follow on Twitter via @JakePaul, @ShowtimeBoxing and @MostVpromotions, on Instagram via @JakePaul, @ShowtimeBoxing and @MostValuablePromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.
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FLYWEIGHT CONTENDERS (#5) ALEXA GRASSO AND (#6) VIVIANE ARAUJO LOOK TO MAKE A STATEMENT AT UFC® APEX
Las Vegas – UFC® returns to UFC APEX with an intriguing women’s flyweight contenders’ bout that will see No. 5 ranked Alexa Grasso and No. 6 Viviane Araujolook to make a statement in their first UFC main event. Also on the card, all-action bantamweights meet as Cub Swanson faces Jonathan Martinez.
UFC FIGHT NIGHT®: GRASSO vs. ARAUJO will take place Saturday, October 15 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.
Highly touted contender Grasso (14-3, fighting out of Guadalajara, Mexico) intends to rise to the occasion and deliver her most emphatic performance yet. Grasso is currently on the longest win streak of her UFC career, earning victories over Joanne Wood, Maycee Barber and Ji Yeon Kim. She now plans to become the first person to finish Araujo in the UFC and cement herself as a title threat.
Araujo (11-3, fighting out of Brasilia, Brazil) looks to crack into the flyweight Top 5 for the first time in her career. A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt with dangerous hands, she has secured notable wins over Andrea Lee, Roxanne Modafferi and Alexis Davis. Araujo now aims to make the most of her first UFC main event opportunity with another dominant showing.
Fan favorite Swanson (28-12, fighting out of Palm Springs, Calif.), who was recently inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame’s Fight Wing for his epic win over Dooho Choi, strives to a make a successful bantamweight debut in his first 2022 appearance. Currently tied for the most total fight night bonuses in UFC featherweight history with nine, Swanson has delighted fans with victories over Darren Elkins, Kron Gracie and Artem Lobov. He now hopes to vanquish another rising prospect and prove he can still compete with the best in the world.
Martinez (16-4, fighting out of Plainview, Texas) seeks to extend the longest win streak of his UFC career and make a run at the bantamweight rankings. At 28 years old, he is in his athletic prime and has found his groove with recent wins over Vince Morales, Alejandro Perez and Zviad Lazishvili. Martinez now intends to add Swanson’s legendary name to his resume with a signature finish.
Additional bouts on the card include:
No. 4 ranked UFC flyweight contender Askar Askarov (14-1-1, fighting out of Dagestan, Russia) looks to defend his spot in the rankings against No. 5 Brandon Royval (14-6, fighting out of Lakewood, Colo.)
Exciting middleweights Jordan Wright (12-3 1NC, fighting out of Lake Sherwood, Calif.) and Dusko Todorovic (11-3, fighting out of Belgrade, Serbia) lock horns
No. 13 ranked welterweight Neil Magny (26-10, fighting out of Denver, Colo.) aims to defend his spot in the rankings against No. 14 Daniel Rodriguez(17-2, fighting out of San Gabriel, Calif.).
Light heavyweight finishers face off as Misha Cirkunov (15-8, fighting out of Toronto, Ontario, Canada) faces Alonzo Menifield (12-3, fighting out of Dallas, Texas)
Mana Martinez (9-3, fighting out of Houston, Texas) and Brandon Davis (14-9, fighting out of D’lberville, Miss.) collide in a bantamweight bout
Middleweight grapplers clash as Nick Maximov (8-1, fighting out of Chico, Calif.) takes on Jacob Malkoun (6-2, fighting out of Oran Park, New South Wales, Australia)
Veteran Raphael Assuncao (27-9, fighting out of Alpharetta, Ga.) clashes with Victor Henry (22-5, fighting out of South Gale, Calif.) at bantamweight
Piera Rodriguez (8-0, fighting out of Malaga, Spain) and Sam Hughes (7-4, fighting out of Everett, Wash.) intend to steal the show in a women’s strawweight bout
Tatsuro Taira(11-0, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev. by way of Okinawa, Japan) plans to keep his undefeated record intact against CJ Vergara (10-3-1, fighting out of San Antonio, Texas)
Mike Jackson(1-1 1 NC, fighting out of Houston, Texas) and Pete Rodriguez (4-1, fighting out of Tucson, Ariz.) open up the card in a welterweight bout
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BBBofC Prohibits Chris Eubank Jr. Vs. Conor Benn “in the Interest of Boxing”
London, UK:
5 October 2022
Picture By Mark Robinson Matchroom Boxing
Workout previews
The British Boxing Board of Control issued a statement this morning on their official Twitter account claiming that it has banned the highly anticipated matchup between Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn.
Benn tested positive for Clomifene, a female fertility drug that raises testosterone levels, and is banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency. The test was performed by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA).
The statement from the BBBofC reads, “On the evening of 4th October 2022, the Board of the British Boxing Board of Control Limited resolved that the contest between Chris Eubank Jnr. and Conor Benn scheduled to take place on 8th October 2022 is prohibited as it is not in the interests of Boxing. That was communicated to the Boxers and Promoters involved on the morning of 5th October 2022.”
However, Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn is still pushing for this fight to go forward. Hearn’s previous statement on social media asserted that both fighters have been made aware of the “legal” implications of the fight, and have agreed to move forward. Hearn is seeking a court injunction to guarantee that the fight may proceed.
Chris Eubank Sr, already concerned about his son making the catch weight of 157 pounds, which he’s never made in his professional career, has been urging fans to boycott the fight. And while Eubank needs to drop weight, already a risky proposition, he will be facing a man who is moving up ten pounds, possibly with the help of a banned substance.
Let’s remember too: Conor Benn was removed from the WBC rankings temporarily in January of 2022 for refusing to enroll in the WBC Clean Boxing Program, administered by VADA. And this was following his devastating knockout of former World Champion Chris Algieri in December of 2021. Algieri, who got up off the canvas five times against Manny Pacquaio, and three times against Errol Spence, Jr. has never been counted out in his professional career. Benn himself was shocked to see Algieri in his condition following the knockout and showed concern.
SPRINGFIELD CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Nov. 19 at Mass Mutual Center
QUINCY, Mass. (October 5, 2022) – “Springfield Championship Boxing,” presented by Granite Chin Promotions, will showcase the top Western Massachusetts pro boxing prospects in legitimate fights, November 19th, at Mass Mutual Center in Springfield, Massachusetts.
Granite Chin’s inaugural show in Springfield, “Springfield Championship Boxing at Mass Mutual Center, will feature a Tripleheader of undefeated prospects such as Holyoke’s Denzel “Double Impact” Whitley (9-0, 6 KOs) Pittsfield’s Steve Sumpter (6-0, 6 KOs), and Carlos Castillo (5-0, 3 KOs).
“This is the kind of show that will not only draw-in fight fans from Western Massachusetts, but from all over New England as well,” Granite Chin president Chris Traietti remarked. “From top to bottom, all of these fights are evenly matched and are going to bring non-stop action. I want to congratulate all of the fighters for being eager to step up and put on a great show for local boxing fans.”
Whitley, the latest pugilist from Holyoke’s fightin’ Whitley family, meets his toughest opponent to date in Fall River (MA) welterweight Kris Jacobs (5-2-1, 2 KOs). Whitley is a red-hot prospect trained by former pro fighters and brothers, father Derrick and Uncle Darrin. Jacobs has defeated three previously undefeated opponents, including 2-0 Ryan Thomas Clark in his last fight by way of a 6-round split decision.
“I’m excited,” Whitley said. “I fought there as an amateur in the semifinals and final of the Western New England Golden Gloves. This will be my first time fighting there as a pro. I know I’m packing Mass Mutual with all my people. I’m fighting close to home, basically in my hometown. I love the support I get from my city. I’ve been asking to fight on a bigger card and now I am. My people followed me on the road. Imagine what it’s going to be like so close to home? I look forward to fighting at home; it makes me feel good.”
“I had no reservations about fighting there (in his opponent’s home base), because I’m used to it,” Jacobs explained. “It’s not an issue. I fought two other guys in their backyards – Harry Gigliotti and Brandon Higgins — and beat them. I’m not worried about fighting him in his backyard, I’m going there to win the fight.”
Granite Chin’s best overall show pits a pair of undefeated prospects in an 8-round bout for the vacant Massachusetts Light Heavyweight Championship, Sumpter vs. New Bedford’s Edet “Papito” Mkpanam (8-0, 7 KOs).
Sumpter has stopped all six of his professional opponents to date campaigning as a super middleweight, while Mkpanam was a 2018 New England Golden Gloves silver medalist.
“This is my first time fighting at Mass Mutual,” Sumpter commented. “I’m excited about that but it’s just another fight. I’ll have a lot of people there supporting me. I love that. There’s nothing better than having a bunch of support. It’s not a big deal for me to move up to light heavyweight after fighting as a super middleweight, but my first two pro fights were at light heavyweight. Super middleweight is probably where I’m going to make my home.”
“I’m not concerned about fighting in his backyard,” Mkpanam commented. “Honestly, it’s part of boxing and I’ve got to do it. I’m an old-school fighter and boxers need to fight on the road. Now, it’s my time. I felt it was time to take a step up like in the old days. Today a lot of guys fight guys with losing records, no tests, and people know who will win before the fight starts. I accepted this test to fight another undefeated fighter. Steve’s undefeated and we are going to put on a great fight for the fans.”
Rounding out the tripleheader of the Western Mass. power base in a 6-round bout is 24-year-old Castillo against Revere (MA) welterweight Travis Gambardella (7-2-2, 3 KOs). Castillo is a skilled boxer who is stepping up to fight Gambardella, who has won 5 of his last 7 fights and his two draws could have easily been victories.
“I’m really excited for this one,” Castillo admitted. It’s going to be a pretty good fight. I really want to put on a show for the city. I fought there as an amateur a few times at the Western New England Golden Gloves. I reached the finals in 2016, 2017 and 2018. Every year there was a sold-out crowd. It’s only 10 minutes away from Holyoke. This will be my first fight there as a pro and I’m sure it is going to be crazy. I don’t feel any pressure fighting at home. It’s my job and I will do what I got to do. I’m just excited to put on a show for the people.”
“Not at all,” Gambardella answered a question about being concerned about fighting in his opponent’s backyard. “It’s part of boxing and I understand what I’m getting into. I don’t talk about it, just fight my fight. I’m an active fighter who keeps moving forward; Mexican style but I move my head a lot.”
Topping the undercard is an 8-rounder between undefeated lightweight prospect RayJay “The Destroyer” Bermudez (16-0, 11 KOs) and gatekeeper Tyrone “Hands of Stone” Luckey (15-18-4, 11 KOs) in an 8-round match. Bermudez is trained by his uncle Hector Bermudez, who owns and operates a gym in Springfield.
Also fighting on the undercard in 4-rounders is Springfield super featherweight Isiah Cruz (4-0, 2 KOs) vs. TBA, as well as Springfield lightweight Carlos Gonzalez (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. pro-debuting Mathew McGee, of Fairfield, Maine.
ALEXIS “LEX” ROCHA TO FACE NEW CHALLENGE AGAINST JESUS “RICKY” PEREZ AS CO-MAIN EVENT FOR DIAZ, JR. VS. ZEPEDA LIVE WORLDWIDE ON DAZN
SAN DIEGO, CA (Oct. 5, 2022) One of the welterweight division’s fastest growing superstars from Santa Ana, California, Alexis “Lex” Rocha (20-1, 13 KOs) will return to the ring as the co-feature to Saturday, Oct. 29’s 12-round main event match between former IBF Super Featherweight World Champion Joseph “JoJo” Diaz, Jr. (32-2-1, 15 KOs) and undefeated lightweight division ace William “El Camarón” Zepeda (26-0, 23 KOs). Rocha will defend his NABO Welterweight title against hungry challenger from Tijuana, Mexico, Jesus “Ricky” Perez (24-3, 18 KOs) in a 10-round fight to be broadcast worldwide on DAZN and live from the Pechanga Arena San Diego.
“All I care about is stepping into the ring and knocking out my opponents. That is my mindset,” said Alexis Rocha. “As long as I keep knocking opponents out, knocking them down, making them quit, or breaking them down, my opportunities will come and eventually none of the top names will be able to ignore me. That is my mission and that is all I care about. I’m coming for every top fighter.”
“This is a great opportunity for me,” said Jesus Perez. “I know the odds are stacked against me, but I will be more than ready on Oct. 29! Let’s hope my opponent is as well so we can give the fans a show.”
Tickets for Diaz, Jr. vs. Zepeda are on sale and are priced at $125, $80, $60, $40 and $25 not including applicable service charges. Tickets are available for purchase at AXS.com, PechangaArenaSD.com and GoldenBoyPromotions.com.
The DAZN broadcast will also feature a world title fight starring Chimba, Argentina’s IBF Female World Champion Leonela Yudica (17-0-3), who will defend her belt against Monterrey, Mexico’s Arely “Ametralladora” Mucino (31-3-2, 11 KOs) in a 10-round scrap. Mucino has been on the prowl for another world title opportunity, and will be looking to impress yet again with famed trainer Joel Diaz in her corner.
Opening up the DAZN portion of the night, undefeated Hector Valdez, Jr. (15-0, 8 KOs) of Dallas, Texas will face Las Vegas, Nevada’s Max Ornelas (15-0-1, 5 KOs) in a 10-round super bantamweight fight. Valdez, Jr. was last seen in April on the Garcia vs. Tagoe undercard securing a unanimous decision victory over Daniel Colula Moncada.
The main event for Golden Boy Fight Night: Diaz, Jr. vs. Zepeda Prelims on the Golden Boy Boxing YouTube will be San Diego’s Jorge “El Niño” Chávez (3-0, 3 KOs) who will participate in a six-round super featherweight fight against Houston, Texas’s Adrian Leyva (3-3-2, 1 KO). Japhethlee Llamido of Long Beach will engage in an eight-round featherweight fight against Houston’s Pablo Cruz ( 22-5-1, 6 KOs). Also on the prelim card, Jan “Nito” Salvatierra (8-2, 4 KOs) from Los Cabos, Mexico will face Robert Ledesma (3-8, 2 KOs) of San Antonio, Texas in a four-round flyweight fight.
Representing Waianae, Hawaii, Dalis Kaleiopu (3-0, 3 KOs) will engage in a four-round super featherweight match against Fort Myers, Florida’s Jeremiah Potts (2-0, 2 KOs). Opening up the Diaz, Jr. vs. Zepeda fight night and the Golden Boy Fight Night Prelims stream, also from Waianae, Asa “Ace” Stevens (2-0, 1 KO) will collide with San Diego’s Mychaquell Shields (pro-debut) in a four-round super bantamweight match.
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Diaz, Jr. vs. Zepeda is a 12-round fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The fight will take place on Saturday, October 29 and will be broadcast live exclusively on DAZN worldwide. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.”
Media interested in credentials can apply at https://emcevents.com/diaz_zepeda.html. Media applications are due EOD October 21.
Tickets for Diaz, Jr. vs. Zepeda are on sale and are priced at $125, $80, $60, $40 and $25 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase at AXS.com, PechangaArenaSD.com and GoldenBoyPromotions.com.
For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and www.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 #DiazJrZepeda
WBC UNVEIL NEW ‘ELIZABETHAN BELT’ FOR THE WINNER OF SHIELDS VS MARSHALL AT THE O2 IN LONDON ON 15th OCTOBER
LONDON, ENGLAND (October 5, 2022) – Claressa Shields and Savannah Marshall have an added incentive to be victorious in the most anticipated female of all-time on Saturday, 15th October, with the winner to be handed the new WBC ‘Elizabethan Belt’.
The World Boxing Council have today unveiled an incredible tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II after the original fight date was postponed due to a 10-day period of national mourning for the late British monarch following her passing two days before the initial 10th September event at The O2 in London, England.
Now, with a new date set, history awaits the first-ever all-female headline event in the UK capital with a commemorative title on the line.
Screened live and exclusively on Sky Sports in the UK and Republic of Ireland, Briton Marshall will collide with American rival Shields for the Undisputed Middleweight Championship of the World.
Celebrating the glorious 70-year reign of Queen Elizabeth II, the significance of this symbolic filip will reward a supreme female champion of Boxing and further enhance the majesty of Women’s Boxing.
The WBC Elizabethan Belt is tastefully yet lavishly designed, befitting both the majesty of the woman in whose name and image it is created as well as the significance of the all-female boxing event featuring the Shields vs Marshall main event.
Boxing, the modern rules of which established by the Marquis of Queensbury, is a cherished part of the British sporting tradition, so much so that it is known as ‘The Noble Art’. The Queen’s father, King George VI was a keen boxing fan. He cheered on the victory of Randolph Turpin against Sugar Ray Robinson, absorbed by a famous radio transmission.
Following the sad death of Her Majesty, several high-profile sporting events throughout Britain were respectfully set aside and postponed, including the BOXXER card headlined by Claressa Shields and Savannah Marshall.
Now, following that appropriate period of respect and reflection, it has been announced that October 15th will be the new date on which this iconic all-female boxing event will take place.
WBC President Mauricio Sulaimán said: “Queen Elizabeth II will live forever in our hearts and minds, the boxing world unites to render homage to one of the greatest human beings that ever lived, here where boxing was born.”
Savannah Marshall remarked, “I think the belt is brilliant, The WBC always pulls out the stops. It’s one of a kind and it’s staying in the UK. How can she walk away with that? That can’t leave this country, it wouldn’t be right.”
Ben Shalom, BOXXER CEO & Founder, added: “This is a wonderful tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth II in what will be an iconic event for boxing. We are hugely grateful and proud to partner with Mauricio Sulaimán and the WBC.
“The Elizabethan Belt will provide an extra special incentive for both fighters – and this incredible, commemorative championship will provide the perfect legacy for the winner.”
For more details on the most-anticipated female fight of all-time and last remaining tickets, visit Boxxer.com
?BOXXER proudly presents this event in association with official partners bet365, Everlast, WOW HYDRATE and Village Hotels.
CHRIS EUBANK JR VS. CONOR BENN FIGHT STATEMENT REGARDING POSITIVE TEST BY BENN
We have been made aware that a random anti-doping test for Conor Benn conducted by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association returned an adverse analytical finding for trace amounts of a fertility drug. The B sample has yet to be tested, meaning that no rule violation has been confirmed. Indeed, Mr Benn has not been charged with any rule violation, he is not suspended, and he remains free to fight.
Mr. Benn has since passed a doping control test conducted by the UK Anti-Doping Agency, the anti-doping authority to which the British Board of Boxing Control has delegated its doping control testing for the bout. Mr Benn has passed all doping control tests conducted by UKAD.
Both fighters have taken medical and legal advice, are aware of all relevant information, and wish to proceed with the bout this Saturday.
LEON BAUER’S YOUTH WORLD TITLE FIGHT CANCELLED DUE TO COVID INFECTION
Undefeated super middleweight Leon Bauer had to pull out of his IBF/IBO Youth world title fight against unbeaten Columbian Hacel Gonzalez due to complications from a Covid infection. The fight was scheduled to take place on the undercard of the huge IBO World light heavyweight championship between Leon Bunn and Padraig McCrory on October 22 at the Fabriksporthalle in Frankfurt, Germany. The Bunn-McCrory showdown is presented by Wasserman Boxing in association with Probellum.
The battle between Bauer and Gonzalez was supposed to take place on September 24 in Ludwigshafen but was postponed to October 22 after Bauer first tested positive for the Corona virus. The 24-years old super middleweight experienced mild symptoms at first and was expected to return to training camp in a matter of days. However, Bauer’s condition worsened over the weekend and he was thus advised by his doctor to take a lengthier break from boxing in order to make a full recovery.
“It’s unfortunate that Leon Bauer won’t be able to step into the ring, but health always comes first and Covid is no joke,“ said promoter Kalle Sauerland. “We wish him a speedy and full recovery!“
“Unfortunately, Leon Bauer’s symptoms worsened over the last couple of days,“ added Bauer’s promoter Rainer Gottwald. “There’s no reason to worry, but he is having slight problems with his lungs and experiences angina-like symptoms. It will take a while until Leon will be able to step back into the ring. We are sorry for the fans, for Hacel Gonzalez and, of course, for Leon, too, but health is the most important thing, which is why we had no choice but to cancel the fight.“
Tickets for the IBO World light heavyweight championship between Leon Bunn and Padraig McCrory on October 22 at the Fabriksporthalle in Frankfurt, Germany, are on sale now and can be bought via Eventim.
CAN “Monster” XU BATTLES BRANDON “Leoncito” BENITEZ; CESAR “Rainman” FRANCIS FIGHTS FRANCISCO “Roca” ARMENTA FOR THE WBO NABO JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHT TITLE; THIS FRIDAY! ON PROBOX TV!
Tampa, Florida, October 4, 2022 — Former World Champion Can “Monster” Xu will battle Brandon “Leoncito” Benitez in a ten-round featherweight China versus Mexico donnybrook this Friday, October 7 in the main event at the Whitesands Events Center in Plant City, Florida. It will be one of four bouts streamed on ProBox TV and on the ProBox TV App beginning at 9 pm ET / 6 pm PT.
In the co-featured bout, Cesar “Rainman” Francis will clash with Francisco “Roca” Armenta for the World Boxing Organization (WBO) NABO junior welterweight title.
It is $1.99 per month for a ProBox TV subscription.
As is customary on ProBox TV, “The Big Four,” comprising of Roy Jones Jr, Juan Manuel Marquez, Paulie Malignaggi and Antonio Tarver, will be calling the fights from ringside. Michael Goldberg handles blow-by-blow, and Claudia Trejos is the ringside reporter and post-fight interviewer.
Here are the four bouts to be streamed:
10 Rounds WBO NABO Jr Welterweight Title
Can Xu, Beijing, China, Former WBA Featherweight Champion, 18-3, 3 KO’s vs.
Brandon Benitez, Queretaro, Mexico, 18-2, 7 KO’s
10 Rounds WBO NABO Jr Welterweight Title
Cesar Francis, Brooklyn, NY via San Miguelito, Panama, 11-0 6 KO’s vs.
Francisco Armenta, Los Mochis, Sinaloa, MX, 12-1 4 KO’s
6 Rounds Middleweights
Darrelle Valsaint, Orlando, FL, 5-0 4 KO’s vs.
Paul Mendez, Delano, California, 21-3-2 11 KO’s
8 Rounds Middleweights
Kanat Islam California via Altay, China, 28-1 22 KO’s vs.
Javier Maciel, Buenos Aires, Argentina, 34-17 23 KO’s
Xu Can reacting to Benitez recently saying he will knock Xu out: “I will not be his steppingstone for bigger opportunities. I am the mountain he cannot climb. I have trained hard for this fight. I am in great condition. My performance against Benitez is the beginning of my comeback and the road back to a world title.”
ProBox TV was originally founded by Roy Jones Jr., Juan Manuel Marquez, Paulie Malignaggi, Antonio Tarver and CEO Garry Jonas. Miguel Cotto recently joined the group. In 2023 there will be one fight card per month streamed on ProBox TV in each of the USA, Puerto Rico (Cotto Promotions) and Mexico (Marquez Promotions).
Mauricio Lara makes his return to action against Jose Sanmartin in Mexico City, Mexico on Saturday October 22, live worldwide on DAZN.
Lara (24-2-1 17 KOs) is back in the ring following a trademark show of heavy artillery in March when he landed the 17th KO of his career against Emilio Sanchez in San Diego, and ‘Bronco’ is circling the World champions at Featherweight following his stunning upset win over Josh Warrington in February 2021. The 24 year old is itching to pursue a third clash with the IBF king from Leeds after their rematch ended in a disappointing technical draw in September 2021, and Lara knows another big KO win would put his name on everyone’s lips as a ‘must-see’ challenger to Warrington and his fellow belt-holders at 126lbs.
Those fights are what Sanmartin (33-5-1 21 KOs) is looking to gain for himself, and the Colombian believes he’s already tested himself against the best in the division when he met Emanuel Navarrete back in June 2018. That was the last time the 25 year old tasted defeat and his seven fight winning streak includes victory in Mexico City where he outpointed David Carmona to pick up the WBA Fedecentro Super-Bantamweight title in August 2021.
“I still wish to become world champion, none of what has happened has stopped me from it,” said Lara. “It’s been two years since I last fought in Mexico City, and I am so excited to be back with my people. I want to give them an overwhelming win and to hope I get the promised World title opportunity.
“I am more than excited for this opportunity to face a great fighter like Mauricio Lara,” said Sanmartin. “I believe that I have fought the best fighter already at 126lbs which is Navarrete, so I have the experience to beat Lara come October 22. I want to thank my promoter Shane Shapiro and Sean Gibbons for this life changing opportunity. Viva Colombia!”
Angel Fierro leads the co-main event as he faces Jeremy Cuevas for the WBO NABO Lightweight title. Fierro (19-1-2 15 KOs) is sitting pretty at #4 in the WBO rankings and is looking to cement his place on the cusp of World title action against the Philly fighter. Fierro was held to a split draw in his last outing against Juan Carlos Burgos in San Diego, and the 24 year old will want to get back onto the three-fight KO streak where he picked up and defended the title he puts on the line for the second time.
For Cuevas (14-1 10 KOs), this is the chance he’s been waiting for in his career, and the 26 year old returned from a two year absence from the ring with a six round shutout victory in Philly in July, and the southpaw is ready to capitalize on his ‘dream’ shot.
“I feel very good, I am happy to return, very motivated, I have done a very good preparation,” said Fierro. “I have not stopped training since my last fight and I want to leave people with a good taste in their mouths after my last fight against Burgos, I was not very happy with the decision and I want to make it clear that I am a great fighter, that I am ready for the big leagues, for a championship, to be World champion and I am very happy to return.
“I feel a great commitment to myself to show after the Matchroom fight that I am ready for other things. I am very grateful to life for giving me another opportunity here and to return to the ring this year and I think I feel very confident because of the preparation that I have with Fernando Fernández, with David, with Erik ‘Terrible’ Morales, I am very happy about that, and I am just waiting the day to get back in the ring and put on a great show for the people”.
“And I also want to show that I am ready for a Gervonta Davis, a Ryan Garcia, a Lomachenko, a Pitbull Cruz, I am ready for whoever they say, and I want to show in this fight that I am ready for the great fighters. I bring another mentality, after sparring with Devin Haney, the 135-pound absolute champion for the fight against Kambosos, after that I realized that I am a great fighter, that I am ready for the big leagues, and I bring a different mentality.”
“I’m very excited for this opportunity,” said Cuevas. “I have a great team behind me, and I’ve been working extremely hard, waiting for this kind of moment. This is a dream come true for me and I can’t wait to show the world who I am.”
Reshat Mati is gunning for his first title as a pro and must see off Mexican opposition in Diego Sanchez Santiago to claim the WBC Silver Youth Super-Lightweight belt.
Mati (12-0 7 KOs) has impressed in his dozen dances in the paid ranks, ending seven of them inside the distance, and takes a big step up in Mexico as his first title fight also marks his first over the ten-round distance. ‘The Albanian Bear’ adds a fourth country to his list having boxed in the States, England, and Italy, and he’ll have to fight both the passionate Mexican fans and their man Santiago (19-2 16 KOs) will want the home support to roar him on to make it second time lucky in title fights, having fallen short for the WBC Youth strap in April 2019.
“I’m very excited about this opportunity to fight for my first title as a professional, and I’m going into hostile territory to do it,” said Mati. “Fighting a Mexican fighter in Mexico, I know the crowd will be against me and I know he’s going to be extra motivated fighting on his home turf, but these types of moments motivate me.
“I’ve been doing this since I was a little kid, it’s nothing I haven’t been through before. I’m ready for a tough fight, to represent my country and bring this title home. It’s Albanian Bear time.”
An announcement on the venue and ticket sales will be made soon.
GH3 Promotions Signs Undefeated Cruiserweight Adrian Pinheiro
Roseland, NJ (October 4, 2022) –GH3 Promotions is proud to announce the signing of undefeated cruiserweight Adrian Pinheiro to a promotional contract.
Pinheiro will be co-promoted with Amaury Piedra.
“We are very excited to add Adrian to our roster. He can really fight and I believe that he hasn’t even scratched the surface with the things that he will be able to accomplish,” said Vito Mielnicki of GH3 Promotions.
“”I am a big fan of Vito Mielnicki. We both are Polish. We agree on a lot of things, and we both see what kind of future that I can have, and how we will get to the top, I am excited to sign with GH3 Promotions. We will do great things together, and Vito will help take me to the top, and I look forward to the next chapter of my career.” said Pinheiro.
Pinheiro will go for win number-10 on October 15th when he takes on Lamont Capers at the Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida.
Pinheiro, 25 years-old is 9-0 with all of fights ending in knockouts. The native Orlando, Florida started boxing at the age of 19.
Pinheiro was born in Poland, and raised in Brazil. “I always had an interest in boxing. I did martial arts in Brazil, but I mostly played soccer. There were very few boxing gyms in Brazil.”
After high school, Pinheiro moved to the United States where he had a very brief amateur career where he had just 16 fights and amassed a record of 10-6.
“People would pull out of fights against me, but I was able to win the New England Novice Golden Gloves.
Pinheiro is managed and trained by Tony Blanco.
“We are very excited to sign with GH3 Promotions. Adrian is young, and he works very hard. He has an incredible work ethic GH3 Promotions will help him get those opportunities that will make him a star.
WASSERMAN ROSTER READY TO ROCK THE O2 ON EUBANK JR. VS. BENN UNDERCARD
Wasserman stars are ready to shine during the undercard when ‘Born Rivals’ Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn clash on a sold-out night of historic boxing at The O2 in London on Saturday October 8, exclusively live on DAZN around the world and on DAZN PPV in the UK and Ireland.
‘King’ Lyndon Arthur is wasting no time as he returns to the ring after the Light-Heavyweight headlined in Bolton on September 17. Arthur (20-1 14 KOs) last faced Walter Sequeira, and stopped his opponent throughout a dominant six rounds at The University of Bolton Stadium earlier this month. Now the former Commonwealth champion will face Cesar Reynoso as he looks to pick up where he left off.
“I’m expecting more of the same. Bolton was about getting back out there, getting a sweat on and getting a win,” said Arthur. “We ticked all them boxes, and now we’re going to be looking to step things up again on Saturday night.”
Saturday offers a fantastic opportunity for Arthur to send a statement across a global audience. He has been in big fights before and experienced the expectations that come alongside being an elite fighter, and he is relishing the chance to continue striving towards titles and repay his loyal fans.
“If you want to go places in this sport then you’ve got to be prepared for big nights where you need to perform. It’s exciting and another opportunity for me to dish out reminders about what I do,” said Arthur. “The message is always clear to those who support me – I appreciate you, and I’m here to make sure we go all the way to the top. Get yourselves in front of a screen for fight night!”
This monumental night for the Eubank name continues with Harlem Eubank’s encounter against Spaniard David Martin over six rounds at Super Lightweight. Harlem (15-0 6 KOs), cousin of Chris Eubank Jr, has continued to build on impressive performances like outclassing Eliot Chavez in July as well as the highlight KO of Sean ‘Masher’ Dodd in the capital back in May as he eyes further progression on this huge stage.
“I’m always progressing. With Charlie Beatts, Adam Booth and the rest of the team we’re constantly working out where we can improve,” said Harlem. “I’m very conscious that a fighter should always be looking to develop themselves and it’s why we’re never just preparing for a fight, but always doing the rounds in that gym to be the best Harlem Eubank I can be.”
This is a unique family affair for Chris Jr and Harlem, fighting on an event with each other as well as the pageantry that surrounds the event and its history. One thing that has been consistent throughout the build up to a huge fight has been their loyalty to each other, and the support that has been exchanged between the two fighters.
“We’re family, and we’ll always support each other as we have Eubank blood in our veins,” Harlem said. “We also respect each other as professional fighters. I admire Junior and all he’s achieved in this sport so far, and I think we’re both looking forward to continuing to do each other proud on Saturday night.”
Towering Heavyweight ‘Magic’ Matty Harris features as he can potentially continue to stun his opponents with a third first round KO win in a row when he takes on Jiri Surmak from the Czech Republic. Ahead of his six-round fight, Harris (3-0 2 KOs) will be in confident mood after heavy stoppages against the likes of Mait Metsis in Newcastle in April and mirroring the same thing 8-weeks later in Liverpool against Pawel Strykowski. In typically confident mood, the ‘Magic’ man can’t wait to pull off his next trick this weekend.
“Every fight is important, but a historic fight like Eubank Jr vs. Benn isn’t a bad one to be involved with is it?” said 6ft 8inch Harris. “I get the chance to keep making my name and get some extra eyes on me as I hopefully get some more highlight reel moments.”
“We’re in a division with giants that carry bombs in their hands. Fights can be ended at any moment, and it makes sense for me to use my own power to have a short night at work.”
Former Team GB star Chloe Watson will be continue to showcase her Flyweight talent when she takes on former World champion Nancy Franco over six rounds. The undefeated Watson (3-0) made a claim for ‘Fight of the Night’ back on home soil in Liverpool in June when she overcame the tough challenge of Fara El Bousairi. She has another big question to answer against Franco, and will be looking to do it in spectacular fashion on Saturday.
“Saturday night is going to be massive for everyone involved. It’s a huge British fight, and to be getting the chance to steal some headlines is perfect. I can’t wait, if you’re not excited for these sorts of nights then why would you be in the sport,” said Watson.
“She’s had title fights, as well as 19 wins with five knockouts. I take preparation serious for each opponent I’ve had from the amateur days to now and Franco will be taken very seriously” continued Watson. “I’m confident though. She can bring what she likes, but i back myself always to meet any challenge and come out on top.”
As the Birkenhead boxer continues learning under the legendary Ricky ‘The Hitman’ Hatton, she is gaining more and more confidence with each session shared with the Mancunian. Sticking around the environment of a former world champion, Watson knows the backing of such a big boxing presence means she can trust him to help propel her into becoming a future world champion herself.
“We’ve been working on plenty. I’m sitting into my punches more and developing ways to set up the opportunity to land them big shots,” said Watson. “Working with Ricky is always going to be invaluable. He’s someone who knows what it takes to make it to the top of this sport and whatever walls he asks me to run through, I don’t doubt the need to do it.”
UNDEFEATED HEAVYWEIGHT SENSATION SONNY CONTO HEADLINES ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29TH AT THE 2300 ARENA IN SOUTH PHILADELPHIA
On Saturday night, October 29th, undefeated heavyweight Sonny Conto (10-0, 8 KOs) fights just a few miles from his home in South Philadelphia when he takes on an opponent to be named in the six-round main event in the headlining bout of a Joe Hand Promotions card at the 2300 Arena.
Conto will undoubtedly be fighting in front of a raucous group of neighborhood supporters as the South Philly native has established himself as a big draw at the 2300 Arena. The 2300 Arena is the perfect home-field advantage for Conto.
Bryce Mills (9-1, 4 KOs) of Liverpool, NY, will look for his fourth consecutive victory when he takes on Larry Fryers (11-5-1, 4 KOs) of Yonkers, NY via Clones, Ireland, in a six-round junior welterweight bout. This will be the third consecutive appearance for Mills on a Joe Hand Promotions card, as he has wins over Daiyaan Butt, as well as a September 1st victory defeating Carlos Marrero.
Devin Gantt (1-0, 1 KO) of Sicklerville, NJ, will see action in a four-round featherweight bout following his impressive third-round stoppage over Taijiro Arakawa on September 1st.
Tariq Green (2-1, 1 KO) of Philadelphia, PA, will take on Everlon Still (2-2, 1 KO) of Voorhees, NJ in a four-round super middleweight contest.
Carlos Marrero (3-8-3) of Bridgeport, CT, will be fighting Tyree Arnold (1-4) of Philadelphia in a four-round junior welterweight fight.
Shane Slocumb of Philadelphia will be making his pro debut in a heavyweight fight against an opponent to be named.
Juan Davila (1-0, 1 KO) of Franklinville, NJ, will take on an opponent in a four-round lightweight bout.
Tyler Zwicharowksi (1-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia will take on an opponent to be named in a four-round middleweight fight.
ABOUT JOE HAND PROMOTIONS
Founded in 1971, Joe Hand Promotions is the nation’s oldest and largest television distributor of pay-per-view and closed circuit sports and entertainment events, such as the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), championship boxing, and concerts. JHP’s event consultants provide their marketing knowledge and promotional expertise to help commercial establishments grow their business through the use of live sports and entertainment programming. Additionally, JHP hosts 4-6 live boxing events per year in the Philadelphia area. These events have held sold-out crowds at various venues and arenas.
TOP SUPER FLYWEIGHT CONTENDER TAYLAH ROBERTSON INKS DEAL WITH LEE BAXTER PROMOTIONS
TORONTO, ON— Fresh off a dominant stoppage victory over Yoselin Fernandez, super flyweight contender Taylah Robertson appears ready to take on the world.
A Commonwealth Games bronze medalist in 2018, Robertson (6-1, 2 KOs) has established herself as one of the best 115-pounders in the world already, and is now taking it global. Robertson has signed a multi-year, multi-fight agreement with top Canadian promoter Lee Baxter Promotions, which will also see her appear on future events globally on DAZN.
“We’ve had our eyes on Taylah since her amateur days from seeing her at the Pan Am Games. It’s been obvious from the start that she is not only a brilliant boxer, but there’s a star quality about her,” said Baxter. “This has been a game-changing year in women’s boxing, we’ve seen so many names break through into the mainstream, and we truly feel that Taylah is going to be the next one.”
Robertson was an outstanding amateur in her native Australia, where she resides in Brisbane. A multi-time national and state champion, she represented Australia at the AIBA World Championships in 2019 as well. As a professional, Robertson’s only loss is to world title challenger and Top-5 bantamweight “Shotgun” Shannon O’Connell, a close split decision loss in a bid for the Commonwealth title in just her fourth fight.
Since the loss to O’Connell, Robertson has incredibly lost just two rounds. She and her coach and manager Glenn Azar have decided to return to more comfortable weight classes, focusing on 115 and perhaps 112. In addition to her win over Fernandez, who was 11-1 entering the bout, Robertson also dazzled her home audience on the undercard of Devin Haney-George Kambosos at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne. That win over Sarah Higginson was broadcast globally on ESPN+ as one of the featured undercard bouts.
Coach and manager Azar said “Our team is excited to team up with Lee Baxter Promotions especially as Taylah sets to fight an IBF World Title eliminator in November. We’re ready to push for a world title and be seen on a global stage. We believe Lee Baxter is the promoter who can do that for us.”
In a country buzzing with women’s stars, including Cherneka Johnson and Ebanie Bridges, Taylah is among Australia’s most popular fighters, with over 25,000 followers on Instagram. Robertson is also one of Everlast Australia’s few sponsored athletes.
“We think that with exposure to an even broader audience, Taylah is naturally going to become an even bigger star,” said Baxter. “But more importantly, we feel like she will be a world champion in 2023, focusing on super flyweight. As she’s shown in the past though, she’s a disciplined athlete. She can follow the Amanda Serrano model and win titles anywhere from 112 to 122 and beyond before it’s all said and done.”
Robertson is in action on November 5 in Australia against two-time world title challenger Chaoz Minawa, a bout set to be a title eliminator, and will make her North American debut in early 2023.
CRUISERWEIGHT PRODIGY VIDDAL RILEY ADDED TO BOXXER: MANCHESTER CARD ON SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12th AT THE AO ARENA
Manchester, England – (October 4th, 2022) – Fresh off a stunning first-round stoppage win in his last outing, undefeated cruiserweight prospect Viddal Riley (6-0, 3 KO’s) is today announced as the latest addition to the all-action BOXXER: Manchester card taking place at the AO Arena on Saturday, November 12th.
Screened live and exclusively in the UK & Republic of Ireland on Sky Sports Boxing, it will be Riley’s second time competing in the famed Manchester arena, having debuted for BOXXER there earlier this year on the undercard of the record-breaking BOXXER: Khan vs Brook event.
Having showcased his technical ability in his BOXXER debut, Riley – a national champion and Team GB member in his amateur days – then demonstrated his ferocious power in June, stopping the veteran Jone Volau in just 51 seconds.
Riley’s combination of proven power and high level of technical ability have made him one of the most hotly-tipped young boxers in the UK today.
In November, he heads to Manchester in search of a seventh consecutive professional victory which will continue his climb up the rankings and towards contender status.
With over two million followers across his various social media channels, an army of worldwide fans will be following Riley’s mission to Manchester, where he joins a card which also features Olympic heavyweight hero Frazer Clarke and Dalton Smith, who defends his British super-lightweight title against Kaisee Benjamin.
A world title unification bout headlines the card, with WBC and WBO world super-welterweight champion Natasha Jonas (12-2-1, 8 KO’s) heading over from Liverpool intent on taking the IBF championship from Canada’s Marie-Eve Dicaire (18-1, 1 KO) and adding it to her collection.
Registration for pre-sale tickets is now open, with tickets going on general sale this Friday, October 8th.
“Viddal Riley is an incredible talent who has made a major success of himself across multiple industries. There’s a huge level of interest in everything he does. Now his focus is entirely on boxing and on rising to world champion status. I think he has all the tools to go all the way,” said Ben Shalom, BOXXER Founder and CEO.
“With his combination of skills and personality, he’s got the potential to become a global superstar. Manchester on November 12th is the next step of that journey. The cruiserweight division as a whole is rising and becoming as exciting for us as it is for the fans. There is a lot more to come from that division.”
Rising star Riley remarked, “I am back! It feels good to return to the ring after one of my career-best performances last time out and I plan to build on it. I’d like to fight once more this year so it’s important that I win in style and take minimal damage. Watch the journey continue, and hopefully by the end of next year, a title is around my waist!”
Adam Smith, Head of Boxing Development at Sky Sports, added: “What an exceptional talent Viddal Riley is! To make a success of yourself in one field is impressive, but to do it across multiple fields is something else.
“Riley made his name in music and entertainment, but he was a very talented amateur boxer long before either of those came on the radar. He was a Youth Olympian and national champion as an amateur and now he’s set on becoming a world champion in the professional game.
“Viddal Riley has reached the top tier in everything he’s done until now, as he aims to one day be a world champion in our sport.”
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON VENUE-SHARE WITH RICKY HATTON vs MARCO ANTONIO BARRERA & DAN HARDY vs DIEGO SANCHEZ EXHIBITION MATCHES, PROMOTED EXCLUSIVELY BY EUROPA COMBAT ON SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12th
BOXXER ticket holders
Ticket holders for the Sky Sports BOXXER event will be able to access the AO Arena from 16:45pm.
These tickets will also grant free access to the Hatton v Barrera exhibition match, promoted by Europa Combat, which is expected to begin around 10:30pm after the BOXXER main event and show has concluded.
Europa Combat ticket holders:
Tickets for the Hatton v Barrera & Hardy v Sanchez show will also enable free access to the Sky Sports BOXXER event taking place in the AO Arena from 16:45pm to around 10pm on 12th November. The Hatton v Barrera show will take place after the BOXXER event finishes.
FAQs
If I’ve got a ticket to the Hatton v Barrera & Hardy v Sanchez show, can I also attend the Sky Sport BOXXER event?
Absolutely, your ticket gives you free access to the BOXXER event and you can arrive at any time from 4:45pm onwards.
If I leave the AO Arena, will I be able to come back in?
Apologies but you will not be allowed to leave the venue and come back in. This is standard venue policy.
Can I transfer my ticket to a friend or family, so I can watch the BOXXER event and then they can watch the Hatton v Barrera & Hardy v Sanchez show?
We are sorry but all tickets are non-transferrable.
Why are there two separate events?
They are two separate events, which have been organised by two separate promoters, with Europa Combat taking over the venue when the BOXXER event has concluded. But purchasing a single ticket for either event will give access to both events.
Do I sit in the same seat for both events?
Yes, your seat will be the same for both events.
ESTRADA-CHOCOLATITO TRILOGY HEADS TO GLENDALE, AZ – MARTINEZ AND ARROYO SET AS CO-MAIN
The trilogy clash between Juan Francisco Estrada and Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez will take place at the Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona on Saturday December 3, live worldwide on DAZN – and Eddie Hearn and Matchroom are delighted to announce that Julio Cesar Martinez will meet McWilliams Arroyo for his WBC World Super-Flyweight title as the co-main event on a blockbuster night of action in Arizona.
Estrada (43-3 28 KOs) and Chocolatito (51-3 41 KOs) will finally go toe-to-toe for the third time in their storied careers, with their last meeting in March 2021 a fight of the year contender that Estrada edged via split decision in Dallas. That victory levelled the score between the pair, after Chocolatito won their first battle back in November 2012 in Los Angeles, and now they will lock horns once again for their third mouth-watering battle a decade on from the first.
Martinez (18-2 14 KOs) and Arroyo (21-4 16 KOs) are also renewing their rivalry on December 3, after their firefight of a first contest in November was sadly cut short after an accidental headclash caused a cut for Arroyo, ending a chaotic three round whirlwind that saw both fighters hit the canvas in the opening session, and Arroyo visit the deck again in the second.
There’s more action to be added to the card soon, and promoter Eddie Hearn believes the final Matchroom show of 2022 in America could be the most explosive yet, with Martinez and Arroyo providing the tastiest of appetizers before the stunning main event.
“What a night this is going to be,” said Hearn. “The trilogy battle between Estrada and Chocolatito is guaranteed to be a thriller, and Martinez and Arroyo have given us a taste of what they provide when they tangle.
“Estrada and Chocolatito will go down as one of the great rivalries in the sport, and on December 3, one of these two modern greats will edge ahead of the other, and that promises to make this the most thrilling of the three clashes – it’s an early Christmas present for fight fans that you do not want to miss.”
Split-T Management Signs Puerto Rican Amateur Star Willito Ortiz
NEW YORK (October 3, 2022) – Split-T Management is excited to announce the signing of Puerto Rican amateur star Willito Ortiz. Ortiz, 19-years old of Bayamon, Puerto Rico, has already built a major name for himself across the island despite only picking up the sport five years ago. A rangy southpaw with ferocious power, Ortiz has dominated the opposition since stepping onto the amateur circuit – compiling a total record of 48-4 and winning four National Championships in a row (2019-2022). As a member of Team Puerto Rico, Ortiz amassed multiple international accolades including a Gold Medal at the 2019 Cinturon de Oro Tournament in Ecuador, a Bronze Medal at the 2021 Pan-Am Games in Colombia, and a Silver Medal at the 2022 Copa Independencia Tournament in the Dominican Republic.
“I am thrilled and extremely proud of this signing,” said Split-T’s Ricardo Figueroa. “Willito Ortiz has all the makings of a super star! He’s a young, skilled, power punching southpaw and I truly believe that with hard work and dedication, he will one day be a World Champion.”
The signing of Willito Ortiz signifies a larger move by Split-T Management to expand its role in Puerto Rican boxing, led by the efforts of Figueroa.
“The addition of Willito Ortiz is a major development in Split-T’s quest to find and work with the best talent on the island of Puerto Rico. Willito was a matchup nightmare in the amateurs with his size, length, and, above all else, explosive punching power – and we expect this to continue into the pro ranks. (Split-T’s) Ricardo Figueroa is doing an excellent job in expanding our role in the ecosystem of Puerto Rican boxing and the signing of a rising star such as Willito is a reflection of that. We’re thrilled to see how this develops. “
Ortiz will make his professional debut on a significant stage at the 2022 World Boxing Organization Convention in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The annual WBO Convention is one of the premiere events for top, young talent to showcase their abilities in front of the entire boxing industry. Miguel Cotto Promotions is in charge of promoting the WBO’s “Tournament of Champions” Boxing Show on which Ortiz will be making his debut on October 26th at the famed Pedrín Zorrilla Coliseum in San Juan.
“I am very happy and thankful that Split-T and David McWater believe in me and are allowing me to be a part of the number one management company in the world. I also want to thank the WBO and President Paco Varcarcel for the opportunity to participate in such a prestigious event as the WBO Convention and, of course, Miguel Cotto and Cotto Promotions for the opportunity to be on their promotion. Everyone can expect big things from me and my team, from Bayamon to the world,” said Ortiz.
A product of the renowned Monterrey Boxing Club in Bayamon, Ortiz will begin his professional career at welterweight.
Click for Highlight Reel for Willito Ortiz
November 12: Janibek Alimkhanuly & Seniesa Estrada Headline World Championship Doubleheader at Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas LIVE on ESPN+
LAS VEGAS (Oct. 3, 2022) — Boxing’s most avoided world champion finally has a dance partner.
WBO middleweight world champion Janibek “Qazaq Style” Alimkhanuly, a southpaw power puncher from Kazakhstan, will make the first defense of his title against two-time British champion Denzel Bentley on Saturday, Nov. 12 at Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas.
In the co-feature, undefeated pound-for-pound queen Seniesa “Super Bad” Estrada will defend her WBA minimumweight world title against Jazmin Gala Villarino.
Janibek-Bentley, Estrada-Villarino, and undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+.
Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Frank Warren’s Queensberry Promotions, tickets starting at $25 go on sale Friday, Oct 7 at 12 p.m. PT and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com.
“Janibek is the top middleweight in the world, and this fight will be the start of a long and accomplished championship reign,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “I am thrilled to see Seniesa Estrada make her Top Rank debut. She is an exceptionally talented fighter and is poised to be a superstar in the sport for years to come.”
“Denzel Bentley is backing himself and completely believes he has got what it takes to win the WBO world middleweight championship from a formidable champion in Janibek Alimkhanuly,” said Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren. “It is a golden opportunity for Denzel to step up from being a respected British champion to starring on the world stage in Las Vegas.”
Janibek (12-0, 8 KOs), a 2016 Olympian from Zhilandy, Kazakhstan, took the express route to a world title. He fought in his first scheduled 10-rounder in his sixth pro fight, winning a pair of regional titles in a dominant showing over Cristian Olivas. Janibek’s last four bouts have been in Las Vegas, a quartet of knockouts that propelled him to the top of the middleweight heap. In 2021, he knocked out former world champions Rob Brant and Hassan N’Dam to earn a shot at the WBO interim middleweight title. Janibek knocked out Danny Dignum in two devastating rounds to earn a shot at then-champion Demetrius Andrade. Janibek was elevated to world champion after Andrade elected to move up in weight rather than defend his middleweight title.
“I give Denzel Bentley credit for accepting the challenge when so many fighters ran the other way,” Janibek said. “It is a great honor to defend my world title in Las Vegas at The Palms, and I will once again show the world what ‘Qazaq Style’ is about.”
Bentley (17-1-1, 14 KOs) makes his American debut following a recent run that saw him become king of the British middleweights for a second time. Last April, he suffered a stoppage loss to Felix Cash in a “Bubble” setting in front of limited spectators. Following a comeback victory over Sam Evans, he regained the British middleweight title with a 12-round split decision over the previously unbeaten Linus Udofia. “The Battersea Bomber” earned the shot at Janibek with a fourth-round TKO over Marcus Morrison last month. Bentley rebounded from being stunned in the opening round to bust up Morrison’s nose and open a cut over his right eye, forcing a corner stoppage. After perhaps his most dramatic victory, Bentley readies for the Las Vegas main event stage.
“It will be a good and exciting fight, and I think it is a fight I can win,” Bentley said. “So why not go out there and enjoy the theatrics of Las Vegas and come back with a world title? I genuinely believe I can beat him, and he is beatable. Everybody says he is scary, but I don’t see it. Maybe I am missing something. We will find out when we get in the ring.”
Estrada (22-0, 9 KOs), the latest fighting sensation from East Los Angeles, hopes to flash the two-handed power that has made her one of the sport’s must-see action stars. A two-weight world champion who has also won an interim world title at flyweight, Estrada returns from a nearly 11-month layoff to defend her minimumweight title for a second time. She won that title last March with one-sided decision over Anabel Ortiz, then captured the WBO light flyweight title less than four months later with a decision over Japan’s Tenaki Tsunami. Estrada moved back down to minimumweight last December and defended her title with a fourth-round stoppage over Maria Micheo Santizo. A women’s boxing pioneer who has been grinding in Southern California gyms since taking up the sport more than two decades ago, Estrada is set to resume her career with the backing of Top Rank and “The Worldwide Leader in Sports.”
Estrada said, “This is an exciting time for women’s boxing, and I am thrilled to be making my Top Rank on ESPN debut in Las Vegas against a worthy challenger in Villarino. I am entering the prime of my career and looking forward to unifying the championships in three weight classes. The newest chapter in my career begins November 12, and I can’t wait to get in the ring.”
Villarino (6-1-2, 1 KO) enters her first world title opportunity having not tasted defeat since her 2016 pro debut. Last November, she traveled to Colombia and knocked out Venezuelan former world title challenger Yenifer Leon via seventh-round TKO. Leon also was stopped in five rounds by Estrada back in 2019. Villarino followed up the Leon triumph in March with a unanimous decision over Judith Vivanco in Vivanco’s home country of Mexico. She now enters enemy territory for a third straight fight in hopes of riding her road warrior mentality to a world title.
“This is the opportunity I have been waiting for, to fight for a world title against a fellow warrior like Seniesa Estrada,” Villarino said. “I am thankful to Top Rank for the opportunity, and I am coming to Las Vegas to shock the boxing world. On November 12, a new champion will be crowned.”
In undercard action, undefeated lightweight prospect Raymond “Danger” Muratalla (15-0, 12 KOs) will fight in an eight-rounder. Muratalla is coming off a one-sided decision over Jair Valtierra.
Antonio “El Gigante” Mireles (5-0, 5 KOs), a 6’9 heavyweight, will fight in his first scheduled six-rounder. Mireles has three consecutive second-round knockouts after scoring a pair of first-round stoppages to start his career.
Junior welterweight Lindolfo Delgado (16-0, 13 KOs), who is coming off an epic decision victory over the previously undefeated Omar Aguilar in August, hopes to inch closer to title contention in an eight-rounder.
2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas (13-1, 11 KOs) looks to make it five wins in a row in an eight-round lightweight bout.
Former U.S. amateur superstar Javier “Milwaukee Made” Martinez (7-0, 2 KOs) returns in a six-rounder at super middleweight.
Lightweight Charlie Sheehy (4-0, 3 KOs), a fearsome puncher from the Bay Area, makes his fourth appearance of 2022 in a four-rounder.
About Palms Casino Resort Palms Casino Resort is making history as the first resort in Las Vegas fully owned and operated by a Native American Tribe. Palms Casino Resort features two distinct towers with 766 hotel rooms and suites, a diverse mix of bars, restaurants, live entertainment venues and immersive lifestyle experiences across a 95,000-square-foot reimagined casino. The resort also includes over 190,000 square feet of meeting, convention and event space; the Pearl, a 2,500-seat theater; an expansive pool and spa area; wedding chapel; the Brenden Theatres 14-screen cinema and nearly 600 units at Palms Place condominiums.
Palms is located just west of the center of the Las Vegas Strip off I-15 on Flamingo Road. Palms Casino Resort is owned by The San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority (“SMGHA”) an affiliate of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. For more information visit http://www.palms.com/ or the Palms Press Room. Follow Palms on social media Facebook Twitter Instagram.
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 22.8 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).
BLUE-CHIP LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT PROSPECT ALI IZMAILOV BATTLES FORMER WORLD TITLE CHALLENGER RADIVOJE KALAJDZIC ON SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION® FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21 LIVE ON SHOWTIME®
NEW YORK – October 3, 2022 – Blue chip prospect and top-ten ranked light heavyweight Ali Izmailov will face the toughest test of his young career when he takes on former world title challenger Radivoje “Hot Rod” Kalajdzic on Friday, October 21 live on SHOWTIME at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT in the latest edition of SHOBOX: The New Generation. The telecast features five undefeated prospects and six fighters with a combined record of 88-2 and returns to Bally’s Atlantic City Hotel & Casino, site of the first SHOBOX® 21 years ago for the second show in as many months.
The John David Jackson-trained Izmailov (9-0, 6 KOs) and veteran power-puncher Kalajdzic (27-2, 19 KOs) will square off in a 10-round light heavyweight bout. The co-feature matches a pair of undefeated, aggressive prospects in Isaiah Steen (16-0, 12 KOs) clashing with Elvis Figueroa (11-0, 7 KOs) in an eight-round super middleweight contest. The telecast opens with Sean Hemphill (14-0, 8 KOs) taking on David Stevens (11-0, 8 KOs) in another intriguing eight-round super middleweight matchup between undefeated American prospects. Included in the telecast will be highlights of perennial spoiler and SHOBOX alum Marquis Taylor (12-1-2, 1 KO) taking on undefeated Marlon Harrington (8-0, 7 KOs) in an eight-round super welterweight attraction.
Tickets for the event promoted by Salita Promotions are on sale now priced at $40, $100 and $150 and can be purchased at TicketWeb.com.
“Once again SHOBOX demonstrates its commitment to showcasing the sports’ most compelling and gifted prospects and providing them with a platform to perform at their very best,” said Gordon Hall, executive producer of SHOBOX: The New Generation. “With a victory, relatively unknown Ali Izmailov will cement himself as a contender as he faces by far his toughest test to date against former title challenger Radivoje Kalajdzic. In the two opening bouts, we feature four undefeated super middleweight prospects with impressive amateur credentials and high expectations. SHOBOX returnee Isaiah Steen is matched tough against Elvis Figueroa, while the Buddy McGirt-trained Sean Hemphill faces the Ronnie Shields-trained David Stevens in a matchup of talented fighters and elite trainers.”
Added promoter Dmitriy Salita, “This is a fantastic fight card from top to bottom with pick ‘em fights throughout the show. As a fight fan, I can’t wait to see what unfolds. We are excited about promoting this amazing fight card on SHOWTIME live from Bally’s in Atlantic City.”
Here is a closer look at the matchups:
Izmailov vs. Kalajdzic – 10-Round Light Heavyweihgt Main Event Bout
Ranked No. 7 by the WBC, No. 9 by the IBF and No. 11 by the WBO after just nine fights, Izmailov is a fast-rising force in the light heavyweight division. A former amateur standout having won multiple elite international tournaments, Izmailov, economical and efficient in the ring, has been matched tough throughout his professional career. In his second fight, he cruised to a six-round unanimous decision over 30-fight veteran Dmitry Sukhotskiy and followed that up with a dominant performance against once-beaten Sergei Ekimov. Since making his U.S. debut in October 2021, Izmailov is 4-0 with 3 KOs against competition with a combined record of 51-10. He has back-to-back wins over undefeated opponents, including most recently a unanimous decision over Eric Murguia in August. Originally from Malgobek, Russia, the 29-year-old Izmailov works and resides with trainer Jackson in Florida.
“I am excited to make my debut on SHOBOX against a very experienced and proven fighter like Kalajdzic,” said the Salita-promoted Izmailov. “I will bring my toolbox and put it to work on October 21 and show the world why I’m the future of the light heavyweight division.”
Kalajdzic, currently ranked No. 7 by the WBO, has proven throughout his 29-fight career that he’s a player in the 175-pound division, unafraid to test himself against the very best. A 6-foot-2 native of Bosnia and Herzegovina, “Hot Rod” turned pro in 2011 and won his first 21 fights before meeting 2012 U.S. Olympian and then-undefeated Marcus Browne in 2016. Kalajdzic, 31, lost a controversial eight-round split decision but rebounded with three straight stoppage victories to earn a world title shot against Artur Beterbiev in 2019. Among those three victories was a 2016 SHOBOX main event fifth-round TKO victory over former amateur standout Travis Peterkin. Against Beterbiev, Kalajdzic suffered a fifth-round loss but has again rebounded with three straight victories as he seeks a shot at redemption and world title glory.
“Not to overlook Ali Izmailov, as he’s a good fighter, but I can affirm that I’m one of the best light heavyweights in the world,” said Kalajdzic, who lives and trains in St. Petersburg, Fla. “This fight will put me in contention for a world title and I’m confident everyone will see that I belong in the conversation with Dmitry Bivol, Gilberto Ramirez, Anthony Yarde, and those guys. I’m grateful for the opportunity DiBella Entertainment and my management were able to put together with this fight. Expect my best performance come October 21.”
“Hot Rod’s only true loss was to Artur Beterbiev. Everyone saw him get robbed against Marcus Browne,” said Lou DiBella, Kalajdzic’s promoter and President of DiBella Entertainment. “He’s a genuine top contender and will prove it against Ali Izmailov on October 21.”
Steen vs. Figueroa – Eight-Round Super Middleweight Bout
Steen returns to SHOBOX after recording the biggest win of his career against the previously undefeated Kalvin Henderson on July 2021 on SHOBOX (Highlights HERE). An aggressive, come-forward fighter who likes to dig to the body, Steen is the half-brother of super welterweight contender and former U.S. Olympian Charles Conwell. The two shared the same card in August 2020 when Steen of Cleveland, Ohio showed off his power with a first-round TKO of tough Kenneth Council. That was the seventh time Steen stopped his opponent in the first round. Like his half-brother, the 6-2 Steen was a decorated amateur, going 85-15 in the unpaid ranks before he turned pro in 2016. Born in Detroit, Mich., Steen started boxing when he was seven.
“Fighting on SHOWTIME is a huge milestone in my career,” Steen said. “I have stayed in the gym since my last fight on July 23, 2021. My team has made sure that my weight and nutrition are on point. I know I can defeat anyone placed in front of me. Teamwork definitely makes the dream work.”
Figueroa will enter the ring for the third time this year after stopping tough veteran Fidel Monterrosa Munoz in two rounds on August 20. The six-foot New Haven, Conn. product has stopped five of his last six opponents, employing a poised, patient, and hard-punching style. The lone decision was against Ryan Adams on the undercard of a January 7, 2022, edition of SHOBOX in Orlando, Fla. Figueroa, 25, started boxing when he was eight to lose weight and began his amateur career four years later. He is a three-time New England Golden Gloves champion and 2015 USA National Championship silver medalist. Among his amateur victories, he owns a decision win over undefeated super middleweight contender Edgar Berlanga.
Hemphill vs. Stevens – Eight-Round Super Middleweight Bout
Trained by Hall of Famer James “Buddy” McGirt, Hemphill made his pro debut in 2019 and has already reeled off 14 consecutive wins after a standout amateur career. In his last bout, Hemphill scored an eight-round unanimous decision over Jeyson Minda in front of his hometown New Orleans fans in January. The 26-year-old known as “Silky” fought three times in 2021, four times in 2020 and six times in 2019. Stevens will be the first undefeated opponent of Hemphill’s career with multiple wins. Hemphill is managed by Adam Glenn, son of the late Jimmy Glenn, who owned the beloved Jimmy’s Corner bar in Midtown Manhattan and was a well-known, iconic figure in boxing circles. Hemphill was a member of Team USA during a stellar amateur career (55-12) that saw him rise to become one of the top light heavyweights in the country. His nickname “Silky” is an amalgamation of his dad’s nickname from his kickboxing days (“Spyder”) and his smooth fighting style — spiders produce silk.
“This fight means a lot to me,” Hemphill said. “I understand how big of an opportunity fighting on SHOWTIME is for my team and me. This is something I’ve been working towards since I was a kid. I feel like I was born to do this, and I’m ready to show the world why I belong on this stage! Camp is going well with coach Buddy McGirt. He has a lot of knowledge and wisdom that I can use and soak up to help improve my game and skill set.”
Added McGirt, “Sean is a great prospect and a pleasure to work with. He has all the tools to succeed, and I believe, one day, he will become a world champion.”
Stevens, trained by Shields, will enter the ring for the fourth time this year on October 21 when he makes his SHOBOX debut. His busy schedule includes a second-round stoppage of Loris Barberio on July 23 and a first-round TKO of veteran Colby Courter on May 28. The 22-year-old Stevens of Reading, Pa., has stopped four of his last five opponents, relying on a polished skillset and aggressive, hard-punching style. He started boxing when he was 11 and went 60-8 in the amateurs. Among his amateur highlights, he is a two-time Junior Olympic gold medalist, a Silver Gloves champion, Ringside champion, USA Boxing Youth national champion and a Youth World Championships qualifier.
“I am excited and thrilled to be on SHOBOX in my 12th fight,” Stevens said. “Since training with Ronnie Shields, I have learned so much and will show it on October 21.”
Added Shields, “The thing about David is we don’t know how strong he is yet. I know he’s strong, but I’ve been getting him to focus more on technique than he used to. That makes him very hard to beat. He’s one of those kids who wants to learn everything in the gym. When a kid like him wants to learn everything, every day, I like it because I know I have to bring my A game to the gym all the time. He will go a long way.”
Taylor vs. Harrington – Eight-Round Super Welterweight Bout (Highlights Only)
The 28-year-old Taylor is a nine-year veteran whose toughness and smooth boxing skills have proven to be a puzzle for everyone he’s faced. Taylor fought the undefeated former amateur star Paul Kroll to a controversial split draw on SHOBOX on February 18. He also owns victories over three then-undefeated fighters including Jimmy Williams (14-0-1) and Sanjarbek Rakhmanov (10-0-1), who have both appeared on SHOBOX, and Oscar Torres (8-0). Taylor refined his boxing tools in the amateurs, where he went 130-20.
After turning pro in 2019, Detroit’s Harrington has proven to be a quick study in the ring, knocking out seven of his eight opponents and making quick work with no one advancing past the fourth round. Harrington, who started boxing when he was 19, has worked on his trade through sparring with former champions like Tony Harrison and Cornelius “K9” Bundrage. An aggressive, fan-friendly fighter, Harrington will see action for the fourth time this year on October 21 after last fighting on May 26, knocking out Azael Cosio in the fourth round.
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Hall of Famer Barry Tompkins calls the action from ringside with veteran combat sports reporter and MORNING KOMBAT host Brian Campbell and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts with Hall of Famer Steve Farhood remotely performing unofficial scoring duties.
SHOBOX: The New Generation is executive produced by Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, SHOBOX: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The SHOBOX philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 86 fighters who have appeared on SHOBOX and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.
