JACK BATESON DEFEATS RUIZ – Leeds hero picks up WBA belt
LEEDS, JUNE 18 – Jack Bateson hopes to gate-crash the world rankings after defeating Diego Alberto Ruiz in Leeds.
The new Probellum signing picked up the vacant WBA Super Bantamweight Intercontinental title with a unanimous points win after 10 rounds at Elland Road.
Bateson was awarded the victory – and potentially a spot in the WBA’s top 15 – with scores of 98-93, 98-92 and 97-93, in front of his home fans.
Ruiz came on strong in the final two rounds but Bateson, who had established a healthy lead on the scorecards, weathered the storm to secure the most important win of his career to date.
Archie Sharp returned to the ring with a clear points victory over Alex Rat.
‘Sharpshooter’ had not fought since October but was a comfortable winner after 10 rounds, taking the contest with scores of 98-93, 99-91 and 98-92.
Sharp, now 22-0, is the WBO’s No1 contender in the super featherweight division and hopes to secure a shot at champion Shakur Stevenson.
Ohara Davies warmed up for a potential WBA world title eliminator by stopped Abdessamad Nechched in Leeds.
‘Two Tanks’ forced his opponent to the canvas in round seven and, again, in round eight and though Nechched beat the count after being floored for a second time, referee Howard Foster said he’d taken enough punishment.
Davies, who moves to 24-2 (17KOs), is now in line to fight Spain’s Sandor Martin, with the winner putting themselves in the frame to challenge for the WBA world super lightweight title.
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Beterbiev Stops Smith in 2; Unifies Three Light Heavyweight belts
Artur Beterbiev scored an emphatic second round stoppage over Joe Smith Jr. to defend his IBF/WBC and add the WBO Light Heavyweight titles at The Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
At the end of round one, Beterbiev landed a short right to the side of the head that sent Smith down to a knee. In round two, it was another right that put Smith down. Seconds later, Beterbiev landed a hard combination for a third knockdown. Beterbiev finished off the fight when he landed two uppercuts and a right that wobbled Smith to the ropes and the fight was stopped at 2:19
Beterbiev of Montreal, CAN is 18-0 with 18 knockouts. Smith if Long Island, NY is 28-4.
Ramirez Knocks Out Nova in 5
Robeisy Ramirez stopped previously undefeated Abraham Nova in round five of their 10-round featherweight bout.
In round five, Ramirez landed a big left hand that put Nova flat on his back and the fight was over at 2:20.
Ramirez of Ciemfugos, CUB is 10-1 with six knockouts. Nova of Albany, NY is 21-1.
Bruce Carrington stopped Adrian Leyva after round five of their six-round featherweight bout.
Leyva was cut over his left eye in round five, and the bout was just stopped just as the sixth round was about to commence.
Carrington of Brooklyn, NY is 4-0 with three knockouts. Leyva of Guantanamo, CUB is 3-3-1.
Jahi Tucker remained undefeated with fourth round stoppage over D’Andre Smith in a welterweight contest.
The time was 2:27 for Tucker of Deer Park, NY who is now8-0 with five knockouts. Smith of Atlanta, GA is 10-2.
Floyd Diaz remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Danil Plantonovschi in a junior featherweight bout.
Diaz of Las Vegas won by scores of 60-54 twice and 59-55 and is now 5-0. Plantonovschi of Brooklyn is 4-1.
Troy Isley stopped Donte Stubbs in the sixth and final round of their middleweight fight.
At the end of of round four, Isley dropped Stubbs with a perfect right to the jaw. In round six, Isley landed a perfect right that sent Stubbs to the canvas. Stubbs wobbled to his feet and the fight was stopped at
Isley of Alexandria, VA is 6-0 with four knockouts. Stubbs of Riverside, CA is 6-6.
Wendy Toussaint won a eight-round unanimous decision over Asinia Byfield in a junior middleweight fight.
Toussaint of Huntington, NY won by scores of 79-73 on all cards and is now 14-1. Byfield of Reading, ENG is 15-5-1.
Jahyae Brown won a six-round unanimous decision over Keane McMahon in a junior middleweight bout.
Brown of Schenectady, NY won by scores of 60-54 and 58-56 twice and is now 11-0. McMahon of Dyblin, IRE is 7-3.
Weights from Washington, PA
Weights for Saturday night’s fight card at Meadows Racetrack and Casino
Rosalindo Morales 129.2 – Ron Harrison 128
Johnny Spell 134.8 – Marceloo Williams 132.8
Jordan Zalcki 153.2 – Dean Goodlow 154.6
Joe Turk 212.4 – Dennis Vance 261
Kiante Irving 168.8 – Charron Spain 168.6
Promoter: Integrity Fighter Management
1st Bell: 7 PM ET
Stream: BXNGTV.com
Undefeated Featherweight Avraham Nova is Ready for Tonight’s Showdown with Robeisy Ramirez
NEW YORK (JUNE 18, 2022)–Undefeated featherweight contender Abraham Nova is ready for the most important fight of his career when he battles two-time Olympic Gold Medal winner Robeisy Ramirez at The Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden (ESPN 10 PM ET).
The bout will be contested for the USBA and WBO Global Featherweight titles.
Nova of Albany, New York knows that a win will most likely earn him a world title opportunity.
The 28 year-old, who is managed by Split-T Management has a record of 21-0 with 15 knockouts.
Nova has been a professional for six-years and has defeated Weusi Johnson (1-0), Martin Nicolas Matamala (9-2), Andres Bens Zepeda (7-1), Hassan Nourdine (9-2), Sulimain Segawa (11-1), Brian Palaez (8-2), Mario Ezequiel Sayal Lozaano (18-2-1), Luis Leal (20-3), Avery Sparrow (10-1) and his last bout when Nova stopped William Encarnacion (19-1) in eight-rounds on January 15th in Verona, New York.
Nova is promoted by Top Rank, Murphy’s Boxing and 12 Rounds Promotions
Ramirez of Cuba is 9-1 with five knockouts, The 28 year-old captured Olympic Gold by winning the 2012 and 2016 and in the latter contest defeated current world champions Shakur Stevenson Murodjon Akhmadaliev. In the 2012 Olympics, Ramirez defeated world title challengers Tugstsogt Nyambayar and Michael Conlan.
As a pro, has defeated Rafael Morales (3-0), Felix Caraballo (13-2-2), Brandon Valdes (13-1), Orlando Gonzalez (17-0) and his bout when Ramirez stopped Eric Donovan (14-1) on February 26th in Glasgow, Scotland.
At Friday’s weigh-in, Nova was 125.4 lbs. Ramirez was 125.8.
GYM signs Canadian amateur star Caroline Veyre
MONTREAL (June 18, 2022) – Groupe Yvon Michel (GYM) has announced the signing of Caroline Veyre, a pillar of the Canadian National Boxing Team since 2013, to an exclusive promotional contract.
She was a gold medalist at the 2015 Pan American Games in Toronto, as well as a member of Team Canada at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo.
The 33-year-old Veyre, of Montreal, will make her professional debut on July 29th on the undercard of rising Canadian star Kim Clavel’s World Boxing Council (WBC) Light Flyweight World Championship fight against defending champion Yesenia Gomez at the Cabaret of the Montreal Casino. Veyre trains at the Montreal Boxing Club of the Complexe sportif Claude Robillard, under the supervision of Danielle Bouchard and Stéphane Larouche. She will compete in the female featherweight (126 lbs.) and super featherweight (130 lbs.) divisions.
“We followed Caroline throughout her impressive amateur career and when she showed interest in embarking on a professional career, we did not hesitate for a moment to sign her,” GYM President Yvon Michel said. “We are convinced that Caroline’s talent and skills are elite. Her discipline, determination and the quality of her coaching will bring her to the top.”
Veyre undertakes this new venture with passion and confidence: “After a great experience in amateur boxing,” she commented, “I am happy to start my professional career with a magnificent team. I feel confident alongside Danielle Bouchard, Stéphane Larouche, Yvon Michel and the entire GYM team, guiding me to have success on this new journey.”
Bouchard has nothing but praise for her new protégé, saying: “I am extremely enthusiastic and happy to welcome Caroline Veyre, an Olympian, to my team. Kim in the world championship and Caroline in her pro debut, what stimulating challenges, I see a memorable evening on July 29th.”
During her long career with Canada’s National Team, Caroline participated in numerous international tournaments and faced renowned opponents such as Katie Taylor, the current unified World Lightweight Champion, Olympic gold medalist, reigning International Boxing Organization (IBO) World Champion Estelle Yoka Moseley, and in 2017 she defeated Mikaela Mayer, the present International Boxing Federation (IBF) and World Boxing Organization (WBO) Super Featherweight World Champion, in Mayer’s last amateur fight before she turned pro.
(L-R) – Caroline Veyre and Danielle Bouchard
FACEBOOK: @groupeyvonmichel
INSTAGRAM: @groupeyvonmichel
TWITTER: @yvonmichelGYM
ABOUT THE YVON MICHEL GROUP (GYM): Groupe Yvon Michel is a professional boxing promotion organization, founded in 2004 by Yvon Michel, Alexandra Croft and Bernard Barré, each still active in the company, the most prolific organization in the history of professional boxing in Canada. Since its foundation, GYM has organized 164 events in Quebec, all televised in Quebec on RDS, TVA Sports or Radio-Canada, and participated in 37 international events outside Quebec. Seven GYM boxers became world champions: Joachim Alcine, Jean Pascal, Adonis Stevenson, Artur Beterbiev, Eleider Alvarez, Marie-Eve Dicaire (2 times) and Oscar Rivas. Seventeen boxers from the organization have delivered 51 world championship fights, maintaining an excellent record of 27 wins, 22 setbacks and 2 draws. During this period, the major American television networks were more active than ever to come to Quebec to broadcast the most important GYM events. Major American networks presented 36 GYM events, an exceptional showcase of Quebec knowledge, including HBO (8), Showtime (7), ESPN2 (10), Wealth TV (4), Spike TV (2), ESPN (3), CBS (1) and NBC Sports (1).
Weights from Rosemont, Illinois
Chicago, IL (June 18, 2022)–Weights for TONIGHT’s Hitz Boxing card at the Parkway Bank Sports Complex in Rosemont, Illinois.
Angel Barrera 134 Lbs. vs Daniel Buenaventura 135 Lbs.
(Illinois State Lightweight Title)
Simon Buettner 166.4 Lbs. vs James Quiter 168 Lbs.
(Illinois State Super Middleweight Title)
Jonathon Hampton 159 Lbs vs Dawik Bosak 161 Lbs.
Kaltin Lavigne 160 Lbs vs Olivia Curry 159 lbs
Mirady Zola 176.5 vs Abimbola Osundairo 172 Lbs.
Ronny Hale 255 Lbs vs Deontae Pettigrew 293 Lbs.
Promoter: Hitz Boxing
Venue Parkway Sports Bank Sports Complex
Stream: BXNGTV.com
Doors open 5:00PM Party starts at 6:00 Central Time
Parkway Bank Sports Complex , Rosemont Illinois .
Tickets Begin at $50 and can be purchased at the following:
Nathan Gorman powered his way to the IBF International Heavyweight Championship as he twice downed his opponent in a punishing first-round stoppage of Tomas Salek at the M&S Bank Arena on Friday June 17, live on Channel 5. Stoppages were the theme of the main card as ‘Pretty Boy’ Josh Kelly reminded everyone of his class and technical ability in a fourth-round TKO victory over the Hungary’s Peter Kramer.
With his name upon the banners, Nathan Gorman did not disappoint the Channel 5 audience and all those in attendance at the M&S Bank Arena on a fantastic Wasserman Boxing fight night. Gorman had a job to do after 15 months out of the ring, but had clearly been working on all the physical and technical aspects of his game to overwhelm is Czech opponent.
The pressure on Gorman intensified as his cousin and WBC Heavyweight king, Tyson Fury, entered the arena in typically flamboyant style. ‘The Gypsy King’ would not be left disappointed, as all of the improvements made by Gorman left Tomas Salek stunned once the first heavy blow had been thrown.
After applying pressure from the first bell, Salek got caught with a heavy shot to meet the canvas a little earlier than planned. The referees count was reluctantly met by the Czech Heavyweight champion, only for Gorman to scythe him down once more with another brutal punch.
“It’s been a fantastic night,” said Gorman. “What a way to come back to the boxing ring.”
“Tomas Salek has only lost to good fighters, but I think I’m the only one to do it in that impressive style. I’m really happy and really pleased with it, live on Channel 5 as well so hopefully there were plenty of happy people watching.”
“It’s now about being active. I’m only 25-years-old, but I want to keep pushing on and hunting for them titles. There’s a hell of a long career ahead of me yet, and there’s big things to come.”
The wait was finally over as the Liverpool crowd stood to cheer Josh Kelly back to the squared circle for the first time in over a year. The fluid and natural boxing that Kelly has been renowned for showed no sign of rust as the Sunderland man looked even more focused and spiteful than he had previously.
His opponent, Peter Kramer, had shown up to become a banana skin and use his durability and experience to spoil the party. This was not the case, as Kelly wore the Hungarian down with a blend of speed, movement and some hard-hitting uppercuts that inevitably saw the referee wave off proceedings in the fourth round.
“Nothing ever replicates fight night – training for it, travelling away to arenas, preparing in the changing rooms. Nothing replicates it,” said Kelly.
“Round after round, I could feel myself getting sharper and I started reading him a lot better. I wanted to put a statement out there with my jab, and it worked well tonight to break him down to the point he started taking a few too many shots.”
“I was saying to Adam (Booth) that I’m going to land a right-uppercut on this guy. When they started landing and doing the job, I thought if he’s going to just sit there and take it then I’m just going to keep giving it to him.”
“He goes the distance with heavier guys normally, like Super-Middleweights. To hurt him, and make him physically shaken, shows what strength and power I carry at 154lbs.”
Chloe Watson avoided any slip-up in her homecoming fight, as the city of Liverpool cheered her on to victory. Watson’s opponent, El Bousairi, had been described as a very game opponent all week and someone to push the young fighter. It was an accomplished performance that saw Watson get over the line with a 59-56 points win.
Elsewhere on the card, it was a successful debut for Aaron Chalmers as he passed the test with a 39-37 points victory over Alexander Zeledon. There were plenty of signs to show the potential of Chalmers and his entry into the sport, with the former Geordie Shore star looking comfortable in heavier gloves having swapped the cage for ropes.
Undercard Results
Mason Cartwright def. Angel Emilov via points, 80-72
Matty Harris def. Pawel Strykowski via first-round KO
Paddy Lacey def. Ryan Broten via first-round TKO
Tom Farrell def. Olaide Fijabi via points, 58-57
Tom Aitchison def. Ezequiel Gregores via fourth-round TKO
Gadatamen Taylor def. Marcos Molloy via points, 48-47
John Edwardson def. Stefan Nicolae via points, 42-36
Split-T Management Triumvirate in Action Tonight in Houston
NEW YORK (JUNE 18, 2022)–Three Split-T Management Fighters will be on display tonight in Houston
Undefeated IBO world Bantamweight champion bantamweight Melissa Odessa Parker defending against Mikenna Tansley at the Bayou Event Center.
Parker of Spring, Texas has a record of 5-0 with two knockouts. The 35 year-old southpaw is a two year-professional who has wins over two undefeated fighters. In her last outing, Parker won the IBO Bantamweight title with a unanimous decision over Calista Silgado on June 19, 2021 in Miami, Florida.
Tansley of Alberta, Canada is 5-0 with one knockouts and is coming off an eight-round majority decision over previously undefeated Danielle Bennett on September 25th in Davenport, Iowa.
On the same card, Giovanni Marquez will look to make it 2-0, when the former National Golden Gloves champion when he makes his hometown debut when he takes on 53-fight veteran Ariel Vazquez in a four-round welterweight bout.
Marquez turned professional on March 11th with a four-round unanimous decision over undefeated Nelson Morales in a bout that was televised on ShoBox: The New Generation from Deadwood, South Dakota.
Marquez, 21 years-old of Houston, Texas began boxing at the age of 12 as he is the son of former U.S. Olympian, world junior middleweight world champion and current broadcaster Raul Marquez.
Marquez had an amateur record of 75-12, which culminated in winning the National Golden Glove tournament this past August in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He was named the Most Outstanding boxer in the tournament.
Marquez, who won the 152-pound National Golden Gloves, will begin his pro career around 145-pounds, with the goal to campaign as a junior welterweight.
Vazquez of Managua, Nicaragua, has a win over Sergio Olivas (12-2) and has fought 17 undefeated opponents including former world champion Jamel Herring as well as former world champion Rene Alvarado.
Also on the card will be the return of undefeated middleweight Andreas Katzourakis. Katzourakis will take on Isiah Jones in a six-round bout.
Katzourakis of Greece is 6-0 with five knockouts. The 25 year-old has been off since December 12, 2020 when he took out Brandon Baue in the third round in Miami, Florida. Katzourakis also has a second round stoppage over Edward Brown (7-1).
Jones of Detroit is 9-5 with three knockouts. Jones won his first eight-bouts which was highlighted by a win over undefeated Antonio Wade. Jones also defeated undefeated Donte Stubbs (6-0). Jones has faced seven undefeated fighters and is coming off a defeat to undefeated to Eugene Hill on December 4th in Houston.
The bouts can be seen live on BXNGTV.com beginning at 7 PM ET / 6 PM PT
Free Boxing: Thompson Boxing’s Path To Glory Goes Live Tonight at 8:00 pm PT (Cast to your Smart TV with Ease via YouTube)?
ONTARIO, CA (June 17, 2022) – Thompson Boxing’s bantamweight contender, Saul “The Beast” Sanchez (18-1, 11 KOs), will make his 2022 debut as he headlines Thompson Boxing’s “Path To Glory” event tonight, June 17th, 2022. Sanchez will face the highly touted amateur standout, Eros Correa (11-1, 8 KOs), of San Jose, California in a 10-round main event.This event will take place at the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, CA. Doors open at 6:30 pm PT with the first fight starting at 8:00 pm PT. Tickets are priced at $50, $75, and $100, are available for purchase by calling 714-935-0900.This event will be free to watch on you Smart TV and Mobile Device via the Thompson Boxing YouTube Channel. Tune in tonight at 8:00 pm PT.
Weigh-In Results: Artur Beterbiev vs. Joe Smith Jr.
• Artur Beterbiev 175 vs. Joe Smith Jr. 174.6 (WBC/IBF/WBO Light Heavyweight World Titles — 12 Rounds)
• Robeisy Ramirez 125.8 lbs vs. Abraham Nova 125.4 lbs (Vacant USBA and WBO Global Featherweight Titles — 10 Rounds)
(ESPN+, 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT)
• Bruce Carrington 127.4 lbs vs. Adrian Leyva 127.4 lbs (Featherweight— 6 Rounds)
• Jahi Tucker 147.8 lbs vs. D’Andre Smith 147.6 lbs (Welterweight — 6 Rounds)
• Jahyae Brown 153.2 lbs vs. Keane McMahon 152.6 lbs (Junior Middleweight — 6 Rounds)
Weights From Ontario, CA Sanchez vs. Correa
Saul Sanchez 118 vs. Eros Correa 118
Loui Lopez 148 vs Jaleik Bogle 147.7
Pedro Valencia 136.6 vs Mario Aguirre 137
Nelson Oliva 155.3 vs. Antonio Duarte 154.9
Anthony John Saldivar 149.9 vs. Genesis Wynn 148.4
“Path To Glory” will take place at the Doubletree Hotel Ontario, CA on Friday June 17, 2022. Doors open at 6:30 pm PT with the first fight starting at 8:00 pm PT. Tickets priced at $50, $75, and $100, are only available at the door. Fight fans will be able to watch all Thompson Boxing fights, weigh-ins, and behind-the-scenes content, via their new Mobile App downloadable on Apple and Google.
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Beto Duran will operate as the blow-by-blow commentator with expert commentary by Doug Fischer. Jessica Rosales will serve as the onsite ringside reporter.
This event is sponsored by Thompson Building Materials, transforming spaces in beautiful places; Omega Products International, the leading stucco manufacturer in the United States; Henry / Fortifiber, moisture system control as easy as 1,2,3, and Makita, rule the outdoors.
For more information, regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com. You can also follow the conversation on social media, please use #ThompsonBoxing.
Boxing TV, and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @ThompsonBoxing, as well as our media partner Fightstars.TV.
SMITH LANDS BRITISH TITLE SHOT AGAINST O’MAISON IN SHEFFIELD
Dalton Smith will face Sam O’maison for the vacant British Super-Lightweight Title at the Utilita Arena Sheffield on Saturday August 6, live worldwide on DAZN (excluding Australia and New Zealand).
Smith (11-0, 9 KOs), one of the hottest prospects in world boxing, claimed his first pro title at Manchester Arena in May 2021 – dominating Lee Appleyard and forcing a punishing sixth-round stoppage to earn the vacant English Title.
Sheffield’s most successful amateur boxer of all time added the vacant WBA Intercontinental Title to his collection by widely outpointing Spain’s Brian Pelaez at the Worthersee Stadium in Klagenfurt, Austria four months later.
The 25-year-old halted Ray Moylette in the tenth and final round of a one-sided contest for the WBC International Silver Title at the First Direct Arena in Leeds in March before defending that belt with a sixth-round stoppage win over tough Argentinian Mauro Perouene earlier this month in Cardiff.
O’maison (17-3-1, 7 KOs), a former English Super-Lightweight Champion, shared two close contests with Luton’s Kay Prospere in 2019, drawing the first and losing the second, before returning to winning ways with a points win over Serge Ambomo in May.
Derby Super-Lightweight Sandy Ryan (3-1, 2 KOs) gets an immediate shot at redemption against Erica Anabella Farias (27-5, 10 KOs) after suffering her first defeat in the pros at the hands of the former World Champion from Argentina on the Leigh Wood vs. Michael Conlan undercard in March.
Romford Heavyweight sensation Johnny Fisher (5-0, 4 KOs) returns to the ring after recovering from a hand injury that he suffered in his points win over Gabriel Enguema in front of over 2,000 of his ‘Romford Bull Army’ at the famous Alexandra Palace in February.
Hyde Lightweight prospect Campbell Hatton (7-0, 2 KOs) fights for the third time this year after notching wins over Joe Ducker at The O2 in London in February and Ezequiel Gregores at the AO Arena in Manchester in April.
Leeds Super-Bantamweight talent Hopey Price (7-0, 3 KOs) gets his second outing of the year, heavy-handed Manchester Cruiserweight Jordan Thompson (13-0, 11 KOs) looks to make it two KOs from two fights in 2022 and there’s action for Mansfield Bantamweight Nico Leivars (1-0) and Rotherham Super-Welterweight pro debutant JunaidBostan.
“World Championship boxing at Hillsborough’s the goal, so headlining the arena for the British Title is a great milestone along the way,” said Smith. “It’s a venue that has seen some huge fights – Naz, Nelson, Hatton and Brook to name a few. Now I feel it’s my turn.
“Sam is heavy-handed and an awkward southpaw, but I think my best beats his best so that’s what I need to deliver. It’s going to be a right atmosphere!”
“When I found out about this fight I was over the moon, becoming British Champion has been a childhood dream of mine!” said O’maison. “I know Dalton fairly well and sparred him a few times so I know this fight won’t be easy by any means, these calibre of fights never are but I 100% believe in myself. The icing on the cake for me is that it’s a Sheffield derby at the Sheffield Arena! No doubt the atmosphere will be electric knowing Sheffield supporters! Roll on August 6.”
“It’s Sheffield vs. Sheffield for the prestigious British Super-Lightweight Title on August 6 and a chance for one of the most exciting talents in world boxing Dalton Smith to headline his first ever show in his home city,” said Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman. “Dalton has been flawless so far in the professional ranks and I truly believe that he is a World Champion-in-waiting. He has a tough assignment against Sam O’maison and the arena is sure to be bouncing for an all-Sheffield main event. We have a host of young talent looking to make an impression on the undercard – catch it all live on DAZN.”
“Alongside the mega fights, DAZN are always looking to showcase the best up and coming talent around on our shows”, said Ed Breeze, EVP Rights at DAZN. “This card has some of the most exciting young fighters in British Boxing who are destined for the very top. This fight night is not to be missed! August 6, live worldwide on DAZN.”
Ticket information will follow soon.
TOP 15 LIGHTWEIGHT CONTENDERS (#11) ARMAN TSARUKYAN AND (#12) MATEUSZ GAMROT CLASH AT UFC® APEX
Las Vegas – UFC® returns to UFC APEX with a thrilling lightweight contenders’ bout featuring No. 11 ranked Arman Tsarukyan taking on No. 12 Mateusz Gamrot. The co-main event will see No. 10 ranked welterweight Neil Magny attempt to halt the momentum of undefeated No. 15 Shakvat Rakhmonov.
UFC FIGHT NIGHT®: TSARUKYAN vs. GAMROT will take place Saturday, June 25 at UFC APEX in Las Vegas. The main card will be available on ESPN and ESPN Deportes, as well as simulcast in English and Spanish on ESPN+, starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT. The prelims will kick off on ESPN2, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT.
One of the top lightweights in the sport today, Tsarukyan (18-2, fighting out of Krasnodar, Russia, by way of Yerevan, Armenia) looks to extend his five-fight win streak in his first UFC main event opportunity. During his last two trips to the Octagon, he secured impressive knockout wins against Joel Alvarez and Christos Giagos. Tsarukyan now aims to become the first person to finish Gamrot with a statement performance.
Thrilling grappler Gamrot (20-1, fighting out of Poznan, Poland) plans to continue his journey up the 155-pound rankings with a breakout performance. A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, he has earned dominant wins over Scott Holtzman, Jeremy Stephens and Diego Ferreira. Gamrot now hopes to dispatch Tsarukyan and break into the Top 10 for the first time in his career.
Magny (26-9, fighting out of Denver, Colo.) returns to action seeking to take sole possession of the record for most UFC welterweight wins. A longtime fixture in the Top 10, he holds notable victories against fellow ranked opponents Geoff Neal and Li Jingliang. Magny now has his sights set on dispatching another rising welterweight contender.
Rakhmonov (15-0, fighting out of Kokshetau, Uzbekistan) hopes to bolster his undefeated résumé by taking out his first ranked opponent. In his first three UFC outings, the rising star has collected wins over Carlton Harris, Michel Prazeres and Alex Oliveira. Rakhmonov is now looking for another victory to maintain his 100 percent finishing rate and continue his meteoric ascent up the rankings.
Additional bouts on the card include:
A heavyweight bout sees Josh Parisian (14-5, fighting out of Howell, Mich.) battle Alan Baudot (8-4, fighting out of Paris, France)
Bantamweight prospects lock horns as Nate Maness (14-1, fighting out of Henderson, Kent.) seeks to hand Umar Nurmagomedov (14-0, fighting out of Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia) his first loss
Chris Curtis (28-8, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev. by way of Cincinnati, Ohio) squares off with Rodolfo Vieira (8-1, fighting out of Orlando, Fla. by way of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) at middleweight
Shayilan Nuerdanbieke (37-10, fighting out of Beijing, China) meets TJ Brown (16-8, fighting out of Little Rock, Ark.) in an intriguing featherweight bout
Light heavyweight finishers collide as Carlos Ulberg (6-1, fighting out of Auckland, New Zealand) returns against Tafon Nchukwi (6-2, fighting out of Temple Hill, Md.)
Dana White’s Contender Series Brazil signee Thiago Moises (15-6, fighting out of Indaiatuba, Brazil) battles Christos Giagos (19-9, fighting out of Hawthorne, Calif.) at lightweight
Raulian Paiva (21-4, fighting out of Amapa, Brazil) takes on Sergey Morozov (34-14, fighting out of Aktobe, Mangystau, Kazakhstan) in a bantamweight clash
Bantamweights Brian Kelleher (24-13, fighting out of Selden, N.Y.) and Mario Bautista (9-2, fighting out of Phoenix, Ariz.) aim to steal the show
JP Buys (9-4, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif. by way of Johannesburg, South Africa) and Cody Durden (12-4-1, fighting out of Loganville, Ga.) meet in a flyweight bout
Vanessa Demopoulos(7-4, fighting out of Brook Park, Ohio) and Jinh Yu Frey (11-6, fighting out of Arlington, Texas) square off at strawweight
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VERGIL ORTIZ, JR. VS. MICHAEL MCKINSON IS SET FOR SATURDAY, AUGUST 6 AT DICKIES ARENA IN FORT WORTH, TX
LOS ANGELES, CA (June 16, 2022): Knockout sensation and the pride of Grand Prairie, Texas, Vergil Ortiz Jr. (18-0, 18 KOs), will make his grand return to the ring on Saturday, August 6, taking on top 10 ranked, undefeated welterweight contender Michael “The Problem” McKinson (22-0, 2 KOs) of Portsmouth, Great Britain. The 12-round welterweight fight will take place at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas, and will stream live worldwide, exclusively on DAZN.
Tickets for Ortiz Jr. vs. McKinson go on sale Tuesday, June 21st at 8:00 a.m. PT / 10:00 a.m CT / 11:00 a.m. ET and are priced at $275, $137.50, $82.50 and $44 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase online at Ticketmaster.com, DickiesArena.com and GoldenBoyPromotions.com.
“I am very happy to be stepping back into the ring again,” said Vergil Ortiz, Jr. “I’m ready to show the world once again why I’m ready for a world title.”
“I’m getting what I deserve,” said Michael McKinson. “I was prepared to fight Ortiz, Jr. before; now, I have been given the opportunity again to prove I am the best in this division.”
“Vergil Ortiz, Jr. is the most exciting welterweight in the world,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO. “We are happy that he is back, healthy, and feels 100%. Fighting in his home state, I can’t think of a better way for him to make his comeback and put on another great performance for his fans. He is one step away from challenging any world champion and he will prove it on August 6.”
“I am delighted that this fight has come back around for Mikey,” said Eddie Hearn, Chairman of Matchroom Boxing. “He suffered disappointment in March when Vergil was forced out of the fight, but thanks to a lot of hard work all round, he was able to fight in LA and gathered valuable experience by making his US debut and all that comes with it – so there will be no surprises for him in Fort Worth. Vergil is an exceptional fighter, one of the best rising stars in the sport, but we believe Mikey has the style to cause him a lot of problems, and this could be his break-out night.”
“First of all we are just happy that Virgil is fit, healthy and ready to get back in the ring,” said Ed Breeze, EVP Rights at DAZN. “Virgil is one of the most exciting fighters in boxing and in Mckinson he will be fighting a serious contender in the division. Expect fireworks August 6th, live worldwide on DAZN.”
“Dickies Arena is thrilled to host the 12-round welterweight fight in what will be one of the most exciting and gripping fights between hometown sensation Vergil Ortiz Jr. and Great Britain’s undefeated Michael McKinson. Fort Worth is in for an action-filled fight night and Dickies Arena is ready,“ said Matt Homan, President and General Manager of Dickies Arena.
Vergil Ortiz Jr. boasts a perfect knockout undefeated record and is considered one of the most exciting fighters in the welterweight division. Originally scheduled to return to the ring on March 19 in Los Angeles against Michael “The Problem” McKinson, Ortiz, Jr. suffered a medical emergency that forced him to pull out of that fight. Fortunately, the fighter is now 100% healthy to return and is looking to make an impressive comeback in front of his hometown when he faces McKinson at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, TX. Ortiz, Jr. was last seen in the ring in a fantastic TKO victory against world title contender Egidijus “Mean Machine” Kavaliauskas in August 2021. In addition, he has faced and won against some of the toughest fighters in the division, knocking out contenders like Antonio “Relentless” Orozco, Brad “King” Solomon, and Maurice “Mighty Mo” Hooker.
Ranked as one of the top 10 best welterweights in the world, Michael McKinson is an undefeated fighter ready to face any contender in the division. Hailing from Portsmouth, Great Britain, the 27-year-old made his US debut on March 19, defeating Alex “Chi-Town Heat” Martin after a last minute change due to the cancellation of Ortiz, Jr. vs. McKinson. Now a notable name in the boxing scene, McKinson has enjoyed an accomplished career capturing titles including the WBC International Silver Welter Title and the WBO European and Global Welter titles. Now, the UK fighter will be looking to show that he has what it takes to defeat Ortiz, Jr. in his home turf and prove he belongs among the division’s elite.
Ortiz Jr. vs. McKinson is a 12-round welterweight fight presented by Golden Boy in association with Matchroom Boxing. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.”The fight will take place on Saturday, August 6 at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, TX, and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN.
JULY 2 CARD UPDATE: HAMMER TIME FOR JOYCE AT WEMBLEY
JOE JOYCE WILL battle the experienced German Christian Hammer at the OVO Arena, Wembley on July 2, as part of a huge fight night also featuring Jason Cunningham v Zolani Tete, Callum Johnson and Nathan Heaney, live on BT Sport.
After being out of the ring since his defeat of Carlos Takam in July of last year and suffering a broken wrist that kept him out of action in the first half of this year, Joyce takes his place on the Wembley bill against the 34-year-old German Hammer.
“The most important thing is to get Joe active and confident again after injury,” said promoter Frank Warren. “Christian Hammer is an experienced campaigner who will provide a decent test and give him a good fight, but obviously we expect Joe to come through it successfully and then start preparing for a bigger showdown later this year.
“It was well documented that it was our intention to match Big Joe with Joseph Parker in September, but Parker has now opted to sign a promotional agreement elsewhere. Joe’s route to a world title shot does not revolve around Parker and we have plans in place for a major fight for him in the autumn.”
“I’ve known about Christian Hammer for a while now,” said Joyce from his training base in Las Vegas. “He has fought everybody, it is going to be a good fight, he comes forward and it will be exciting. It is one to get me ready for the next fights coming up.
“I’ve been out of the ring for a whole year now so it will be good to dust off the gloves and shake off the cobwebs. It is going to be a big year, this year and next, with some great fights and I just need to be in the right place.
“I have taken myself out to the right place with this training camp here to bring out the best in me.”
The Hamburg resident, Hammer, has taken on all comers across his near 14-year career, with names such as Tyson Fury, Erkan Teper, David Price, Alexander Povetkin, Luis Ortiz, Tony Yoka, Hughie Fury all featuring on his record. He most recently went the distance with WBO number three ranked Frank Sanchez.
His most recent title success came in 2018 when he defeated Michael Wallisch to win the WBO European championship belt, a title he also won in 2016 with victory over countryman Teper and subsequently made successful defences against David Price and Zine Eddine Benmakhlouf.
The July 2 card at the OVO Arena also includes the highly anticipated super bantamweight collision between European champion Jason Cunningham and two-weight world champion Zolani Tete. Callum Johnson fights Igor Mikhalkin for the WBC Silver light heavyweight title and Stoke favourite Nathan Heaney will make a defence of his IBO International middleweight championship.
Due to a hand injury, Sam Noakes will no longer be defending his WBC International Silver lightweight title on the night against Marc Videl, so the Spaniard will now face an equally formidable foe from the Queensberry ranks in Mark Chamberlain, with the IBF European title on the line. This represents a first title tilt for the 10-0 Chamberlain and his first fight over 10 rounds.
Super featherweight newcomer Royston Barney-Smith has also suffered a hand injury and he is replaced on the card by the 6-0 welterweight Micky Burke jr.
Wycombe super lightweight Henry Turner is fighting over six rounds and Thetford cruiserweight Tommy Fletcher will make his professional debut in a four-round fight having recently signed to Frank Warren and Queensberry.
Tickets for High Stakes at OVO Arena, Wembley on Saturday 2 July are on sale now from £55 available from AXS.com and Ticketmaster.co.uk.
Featherweight Bout – 4 X 3 Minute Rounds JOHN EDWARDSON – 9 Stone, 5 Pounds STEFAN NICOLAE – 9 Stone, 2 Pounds, 1 Ounce
For full image gallery please click here. Mandatory photo credit: Wasserman Boxing. Editorial use only.
If prompted, please use password: GormanSalek
Heavyweights collide as Nathan Gorman (18-1, 12 KOs) takes on Tomas Salek (17-3, 13 KOs) as part of a huge night of free-to-air boxing on Friday June 17 at the M&S Bank Arena. ‘Pretty Boy’ Josh Kelly (10-1-1, 6 KOs) also features alongside the professional debut of Aaron Chalmers and former Team GB fighter Chloe Watson (2-0) as she continues her undefeated start as a professional under the tutelage of Ricky Hatton, fighting over 6 rounds in the Flyweight division against Fara El Bousairi (5-2, 1 KO). The undefeated Paddy Lacey (2-0) and John Edwardson (2-0) will both be looking for wins in front of their home crowd, with Mason ‘Nutty’ Cartwright (17-3, 7 KOs) and heavyweight giant ‘Magic’ Matty Harris (2-0, 1 KO) also promising to provide Liverpool with more highlight moments. Promoted by Wasserman Boxing, live on Channel 5, in association with William Hill, Numan and Infinitum Entertainment.
PARO VS. JARVIS KICKS OFF NEW ERA FOR MATCHROOM IN AUSTRALIA
Liam Paro and Brock Jarvis will clash in a 12-round Super-Lightweight contest as Eddie Hearn and Matchroom break new ground with their first show in Australia scheduled for September.
Paro (22-0 13 KOs) is ranked #1 with the WBO at 140lbs and the Brisbane star will aim to kick-off Matchroom’s new era Down Under in style on his home turf. The 26-year-old inked a promotional pact with Hearn in December after seeing off the unbeaten Yomar Alamo in Tampa, Florida on his American debut.
Jarvis (20-0 18 KOs) also comes into the bout on the back of his first fight on US soil, where the New South Wales ace came out on top in a wild shoot out with Alejando Rodriguez with a fifth round stoppage in Fresno, California. The 24-year-old recorded his 18th win inside the distance from 20 fights that night, and the fans can expect an all-action affair as Hearn and Matchroom
“My rankings speak for themselves, I’ve taken no short cuts to get here,” said Paro. “I ain’t losing to a guy who isn’t on my level. His team will quickly realize that they’ve made the wrong move chasing a fight with me. On fight night I’ll show you why I’m rated no #1.”
“Matchroom boxing is the biggest promotional company in the world and it’s fantastic that they are coming to Australia,” said Jarvis. “I’m really proud and excited to be part of their first event here and I’m looking forward to putting on a show for everyone.”
“I’ve worked with Brock since he was a young kid and take it from me he can go all the way in this sport,” said Jarvis’ trainer, manager and former three-weight World champion Jeff Fenech. “I know what he is capable of and I wouldn’t have taken this fight if I didn’t have 100% confidence in him. It’s a great fight for Brock to take his career to the next level.” “We are excited for Liam to be headlining Matchroom’s first ever show in Australia,” said Paro’s manager, Alfie DiCarlo. “As for the fight, Liam has worked hard to move up the rankings to #1. He did that by facing World-rated fighters and tough international competition. Brock is in for a real test; he’s bitten off more than he can chew.”
Promoter Eddie Hearn will formally unveil the first event at a press conference on Friday in Queensland, and undercard plans are already in full swing with Heavyweight star Demsey McKean (21-0 13 KOs) and Commonwealth gold medal sensation Skye Nicolson (4-0) the first fighters confirmed for the supporting cast for what promises to be a memorable night.
“I am so excited to kick-off this new era for Matchroom in Australia,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “Australian fans are so passionate about sport and boxing is on the rise here, so I have no doubt that they will embrace the fight nights that we put on and join us in creating unforgettable nights that showcase this country as one of the key players for the sport globally.
“In order to put on great nights, you need to make exciting fights, and our first main event Down Under promises to be explosive stuff. Liam and Brock are only ever in thrilling bouts and the winner will be in prime position to hunt for a World title fight later in the year.”
FORMER WORLD CHAMPION LUIS CONCEPCION TO RETURN IN CO-MAIN EVENT OF CARDOSO-HUERTAS THIS FRIDAY LIVE ON PROBOX TV
PANAMA CITY, Panama (June 15, 2022): Former two-division world champion Luis “Nica” Concepcion (39-9, 28 KOs) will look to shine in front of a hometown crowd against Venezuelan Juan “Pequita” Lopez (15-8-1,14 KOs) in the co-main event of Cardoso-Huertas this Friday, June 17 at La Doce Sports Center in Panama City, Panama.
The event, which is promoted by ProBox Promotions with Master Promotions and All Star Boxing, Inc., will be streamed live globally on ProBox TV beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.
Concepcion is a 36-year-old who has had a career of many ups and down. In 2009, he defeated Omar Salado to become the WBA Interim Flyweight Champion. He was then elevated to full champion after several defenses. In 2015, Concepcion then captured the interim WBA title at 115 pounds with a stoppage win over David Sanchez and later became full champion by defeating Kohei Kono the following year.
Concepcion would eventually lose the title to Khalid Yafai, but once again captured the interim version of the WBA 112-pound belt in 2020, a title he then lost to undefeated Artem Dalakian. The hard-hitting Concepcion has also had tough fights against Carlos Cuadras and Andrew Moloney in a career spanning more than 15 years.
Lopez, on his end, will not be giving up any advantages in the traditional sense. Though he is from Venezuela, he has fought in Panama over 10 times and has held his own against prospects such Orlando Peñalba, with whom he fought to draw in a battle contested at 118 pounds.
Also on the card are the following bouts:
Gilberto “Cacique” Pedroza (20-9-2, 8 KOs) of La Palma, Panama will participate in an eight-round flyweight bout against Pedro Villegas (13-2, 4 KOs) of Quito, Ecuador.
To start the broadcast, rising middleweight prospectand 2020 Olympian Darelle Valsaint (3-0, 2 KOs) of Orlando, Florida will face Encarnacion Diaz (12-1, 7 KOs) of San Jose, Costa Rica in a six-round bout.
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UNDEFEATED PRO BOXER JAKE PAUL AND UNIFIED WORLD CHAMPION AMANDA SERRANO TO HEADLINE MADISON SQUARE GARDEN ON SATURDAY, AUGUST 6 LIVE ON SHOWTIME PPV®
NEW YORK – June 15, 2022 – Renowned content creator and highlight maker Jake “The Problem Child” Paul, fresh off of his viral one-punch knockout victory in December, and Amanda “Real Deal” Serrano, the Unified Featherweight World Champion who is coming off one of the most significant matches in women’s boxing history, will headline in dual main events at Madison Square Garden on Saturday, August 6 live on SHOWTIME PPV in an event presented by Most Valuable Promotions (MVP). Opponents for the main event bouts are to be announced.
The Sports Illustrated 2021 Breakout Boxer of the Year, Paul (5-0, 4 KOs) will look to remain undefeated as a professional boxer and solidify his role as one of the sport’s most intriguing and talked-about fighters. A YouTube star and influencer-turned-pro boxer, Paul’s perfectly placed right hand in the sixth round against Tyron Woodley last December was the No. 1 trending video worldwide on YouTube the day following their December 18 bout. It retained its staying power with a No. 2 ranking two days later. The dramatic knockout also recorded 7.5 million views in less than 24 hours on YouTube, making it the most watched video in a 24-hour period in the history of SHOWTIME SPORTS®. The Cleveland native, who is just 25 and started his pro boxing journey in January 2020, is fighting out of Puerto Rico under the tutelage of Danny Smith and B.J. Flores.
“It has been one hell of a year already,” said Paul, a cruiserweight who will be fighting for the first time in New York City’s famed MSG arena. “I couldn’t have been prouder of Amanda when she went toe-to-toe against Katie Taylor in April and made history at MSG. Now, to be able to make my own history at the Garden and share the night with Amanda is just the epitome of the American dream. This is a special moment for the entire creator community and I promise I will once again show the world anything is possible.”
Having won titles in every division between 115 and 140 pounds, Serrano, a Puerto Rican southpaw from Brooklyn, holds the Guinness World Record for most women’s boxing world championships (7) won in different weight classes. Her narrow split-decision loss to Katie Taylor in a lightweight championship bout at Madison Square Garden was the first women’s fight in history to headline at MSG, and it delivered. Drawing a raucous, sold-out crowd of 19,187, Serrano (42-2-1, 30 KOs) nearly finished Taylor off with a barrage of punches in the fifth round. Now, Serrano will lace up the gloves for the second time this year and defend her WBO, WBC and IBO featherweight titles, which she last did in August 2021.
“I’m so blessed. To be headlining twice in less than six months at Madison Square Garden is something I could have never dreamed of,” Serrano said. “I’m so thankful to MVP, SHOWTIME and MSG for their continued support and believing in me every step of the way. I can’t wait for another opportunity to fight in front of my community surrounded by my fans and to continue to prove that women can do anything.”
“Amanda and Jake have become the most dynamic duo in professional boxing. As MVP athletes, they’ve both strived for greatness in their own respect and yet, continually work to build one another up not just as athletes but mentors and friends,” said MVP co-founder Nakisa Bidarian. “Watching these two grow immensely over the last year has been a privilege and to have them both headline as main events at the greatest arena in the world, is a special feat. We are grateful to Madison Square Garden and SHOWTIME for partnering with us on what will be a can’t miss night of boxing and a monumental accomplishment for the creator community.”
Paul will fight on SHOWTIME PPV for a third time after winning a split decision over Woodley in August 2021 and delivering a sensational Knockout Of The Year candidate in their rematch in December. Serrano returns to the network for the fifth time, and now her third pay-per-view, after winning unanimous decisions over Yamileth Mercado in August and Miriam Gutierrez in December.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jake and Amanda back in dual co-headlining bouts on SHOWTIME PPV,’” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “Amanda and Jake represent two very different kinds of fighters—one is a sure-fire Hall of Famer with a litany of world titles on her resume, the other is a relative newcomer to the sport with a flair for the dramatic who has proven that he belongs. Despite their contrasting styles, they both make the sport more accessible and attractive to a younger and more diverse audience. When Jake Paul fights, he captures attention like few others, and we as a network have historically been the biggest proponent of women’s combat sports. We are proud to add this marquee event to a year filled with thrilling, world-class events from SHOWTIME—the global leader in live combat sports.”
The event is co-produced by SHOWTIME PPV and Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), a company founded by Paul and Bidarian on the premise that content is king, and fighters are the content creators in combat sports. Holden Boxing will be the licensed promoter for the event, and Paul and Bidarian will serve as executive producers. The pay-per-view telecast is produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV.
Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly owned subsidiary of Paramount, owns and operates the premium service SHOWTIME®, which features critically acclaimed original series, provocative documentaries, box-office hit films, comedy and music specials and hard-hitting sports. SHOWTIME is available as a stand-alone streaming service across all major streaming devices and Showtime.com, as well as via cable, DBS, telco and streaming video providers. SNI also operates the premium services THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ and FLIX®, as well as on demand versions of all three brands. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV®. For more information, go to www.SHO.com.
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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, 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/SHOBoxing.
PIERCE O’LEARY LINKS UP WITH QUEENSBERRY
IRISH SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT star Pierce O’Leary has signed a promotional agreement to fight under the Queensberry banner and to be managed by Francis Warren.
The 22-year-old will make his Queensberry bow on July 16 at the Copper Box show headlined by Hamzah Sheeraz vs Francisco Emmanuel Torres where he will contest the vacant WBC Youth super-lightweight title.
Currently 9-0 as a professional, with five KOs to his name, O’Leary is quickly becoming a genuine contender in his division and has thrilled fans with his bludgeoning power and improving ringcraft.
Known as ‘Big Bang’, O’Leary is a nine-time national champion in his native Ireland and, on turning pro, he moved his training base to Bromley to work with respected coach Alan Smith alongside the likes of Sam Noakes, Dennis McCann and Henry Turner.
“I am excited to be with Queensberry and I am looking forward to big things ahead,” said the Dubliner who trades in the currency of knockouts, with four of his last five requiring the intervention of the referee to end proceedings.
“When I am in the ring expect a KO because I am coming to hurt them. I am not in there to tiddle anyone up, I am in there to get the job done, go home safe and sound and feed my family. When I am in there, I go all guns and that’s it.
“I will be out in July and, hopefully, it is for a title, and we will go from there. It is going to be a massive year and I want to end it with some titles.
“I am excited, as I said, I have a great team around me, great plans and I am looking forward to it. I have seen first-hand how the lads have been treated and it has been fabulous. I am really looking forward to teaming up with Frank and Francis Warren.”
Manager Francis Warren added: “Pierce is a top-quality fighter who I am delighted to welcome onboard. He is not known as Big Bang for nothing and the fans and BT Sport viewers will enjoy watching this young man at work.
“He is part of a great set-up at the Queensberry iBox Gym with Alan Smith, who fully believes he is working with a future world champion.
“I am looking forward to seeing Pierce in action on July 16 at the Copper Box and to guiding his career towards major title success moving forward.”
Tickets for the show at the Copper Box Arena on Saturday, 16 July are on sale now priced from £55 and are availible from SeeTickets.com.
ILLNESS FORCES POSTPONEMENT OF FURY vs HUNTER CLASH
Manchester, England – (June 15, 2022) – The heavyweight contender clash between Hughie Fury and Michael Hunter has been postponed from its originally-scheduled 2nd July date due to illness, it was announced today by BOXXER.
Fury, who has staged this training camp in Cannes, France, had been attempting to train through the illness but his father and trainer Peter Fury today made the decision to suspend the camp to allow his son time to fully recover.
“On behalf of myself and my son, we apologise to the fans but most of all to Hunter and his team, because like us, they’ve gone through a hard camp and this news is the last thing anyone in boxing wants to hear,” said Peter Fury.
“Hughie struggled on through the illness but physically broke down. We look forward to this fight being rescheduled as it’s a great fight for both men and for the fans around the world. Once again we apologise to everyone involved, but health is paramount in boxing.”
Fury vs Hunter is a WBA World Championship Eliminator bout which will send the winner forward for a shot at the WBA World Heavyweight Championship. BOXXER is presently working to schedule a new date for the fight at the AO Arena Manchester.
“Boxing fans all over the world have been looking forward to this fight and so have the two fighters. Nobody will be more disappointed than Hughie Fury and Michael Hunter by today’s news, but health is more important than anything. We wish Hughie a speedy recovery while we arrange a new date for this bout in Manchester,” said Ben Shalom, BOXXER founder and CEO.
All tickets purchased for the 2nd July event will be valid for the newly-rescheduled date when announced. Fans unable to attend the new date can also obtain a full refund on any tickets purchased for 2nd July.
LEEDS HERO JACK BATESON SIGNS PROMOTIONAL DEAL WITH PROBELLUM
LONDON, JUNE 15 – Jack Bateson wants to become a Leeds boxing legend just like world champion Josh Warrington after being announced as Probellum’s latest signing. Bateson faces the biggest test of his professional career when, on Saturday night (June 18), he squares off against Diego Alberto Ruiz over 10 rounds for the vacant WBA Intercontinental Super Bantamweight title.
A win for the 27-year-old in front of his home fans at Elland Road, should catapult the former Great Britain amateur firmly into the world rankings and with the backing of Probellum, Bateson believes victory this weekend will mark the beginning of some “big nights” in Leeds – just like the ones created by city hero Warrington.
“I am blessed to be from a city like Leeds,” Bateson said.
“Josh Warrington is a big pal of mine and we’ve all seen what he has achieved, and I know if I work hard and stay grounded then I can get to that point too.
OLYMPIC CHAMPION’S PRO DEBUT CONFIRMED
DAVIES REACTS TO WBA AHEAD OF LEEDS FIGHT
“And it won’t be long before I’m filling out the First Direct Arena, like Josh does, but I need to get past Ruiz first.
“Saturday will hopefully be the start of some very big nights for me, and I know that the Leeds fans will get behind me, as they always have done.”
Standing in Bateson’s way is Argentinean puncher Ruiz whose recent opponents include Probellum stars Lee McGregor and Shabaz Masoud, as well as Michael Conlan.
“I’ve seen Ruiz box a couple of times in the last 12-18 months and these are the sort of fights I want to be in,” Bateson buzzed.
“He’s a good fighter, as tough as they come, and Ruiz will be looking at me and thinking this isn’t anything he hasn’t seen before but, mark my words, he’s never been in the ring with anyone like me before!
“I won the English title last year and I am now ready to push on and a win on Saturday will, hopefully, get me a top 15 ranking with the WBA.”
Bateson, 16-0 as a pro, added: “Some of the guys who have won this WBA belt in the past, have gone on and won big things in the sport, including the world title.
“In the UK alone, the super bantamweight division is booming, there are a lot of big fights out there for me, and so I am excited about what is to come.”
To keep up to date with Bateson’s big fight against Ruiz, sign up to our newsletter?or follow Probellum on?Instagram,?Twitter?and?Facebook.????
You can also follow our official news, results, and information account, Probellum News, on Twitter.??
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 has already held back-to-back world championship nights in Dubai, as well as a packed card in Newcastle.
The world title action then headed to Liverpool last month where Paul Butler won the WBO bantamweight crown.
Probellum’s elite stable of fighters also includes Nonito Donaire, Regis Prograis, Estelle Mossely, Sunny Edwards, Eimantas Stanionis, Donnie Nietes and Dina Thorslund.
But the company has also recruited the next generation of stars with Peter McGrail, Mark Dickinson and Pat and Luke McCormack, Shabaz Masoud and Spencer Wilcox among the young talents under the Probellum umbrella.
Since launching, Probellum has signed co-promotional partnerships with some of the biggest promoters globally, including DiBella Entertainment (US), Wasserman (Germany), Universum (Germany), GYM (Canada), Maravilla Box (Spain), Team Ellis (Australia), Titov Boxing Promotions (Russia), Volcano Boxing (El Salvador), BXSTRS Promotions (Mexico), PR Best (Puerto Rico) Glozier Boxing (New Zealand), Box Office Sports (Ghana) and LNK Boxing (Latvia).????
Darren Cunningham Victorious in Hometown of St. Louis
LAS VEGAS, NV (June 14, 2022) – Super bantamweight prospect, Darren “The Gift” Cunningham (16-2, 8 KOs), brought boxing back to his hometown of St. Louis and scored a unanimous 8-round decision against veteran journeyman, Diuhl Olguin (15-24-3, 10 KOs). Over 3,500 people packed the Ambassador Club where the event, promoted by Showout Boxing Promotions and DC3 Promotions, took place.
Cunningham controlled the action from the opening bell by using superior lateral movement and combination punching. Olhuin showed a lot of heart and had his moments but could not deal with the boxing skills Cunningham was displaying. Scorecards read 79-73 twice and 78-74, all in favor of Cunningham.
“Every fight moving forward is a must win situation for me, so I knew I needed to step up my game,” said Cunningham who suffered his second loss as a professional in his last fight. “I’m realizing that I just need to box my way to victory if the knockout doesn’t come early. I’ve been trying to get these guys out of there and that has been the problem. I just need to dictate the action and get the win by all means necessary.”
“We wanted to bring Darren back to his hometown and put on a great show for his fans,” said David Belcher who manages Cunningham. “The event was spectacular with everyone having a good time. We had a tremendous amount of local media support and we are planning to come back before the end of the year.”
EXCLUSIVE: TYSON TEASES RETIREMENT U-TURN
TYSON FURY OFFERED up the strongest hint yet that his fighting days are not behind him when he took the hotseat for a digital get-together with his promoter Frank Warren and host Dev Sahni for the latest UniBet Lowdown episode.
The world’s No.1 heavyweight floated the idea of retirement before and after his crowning glory at Wembley Stadium where he knocked out the Interim champion Dillian Whyte to retain his WBC world championship in front of 94,000 adoring fans.
But it seems he might not be done just yet and, in a wide ranging interview for the Queensberry YouTube channel, the Gypsy King reveals that himself and Frank Warren are formulating plans for another memorable night or two in the months to come.
“We’re talking about various scenarios,” said the Hall of Fame fight maker. “Something will come out of it. We could announce fairly soon.
“Frank, show me the money,” added Tyson. “The Magic Man will show me the money and we will make something big, big, big happen.”
Also, in this exclusive chat set in Tyson’s local barbers, the barbershop conversation included…
Tyson looking back on a magical night under the lights at Wembley Stadium in April
Giving Dillian Whyte the push: “His head did not hit the canvas”
Very exciting news coming about a plan of action
His daily routine, enjoying life and being an ‘idiot abroad’
A third book on the way. “It will be my third best-seller and I can’t even spell!”
Anthony Joshua’s best chance of beating Oleksandr Usyk? “Get up to Morecambe and let me train him or he won’t beat Usyk”
Daniel Dubois’ WBA world title triumph. “Daniel chinned him, so fair play”
These topics and much more are covered by Tyson, Frank and Dev so be sure to tune in on YouTube to watch in full.
Featherweight Fury: Joet Gonzalez & Isaac Dogboe to Lock Horns in World Title Eliminator July 23 at Grand Casino Hinckley and LIVE on ESPN+
HINCKLEY, Minn. (June 14, 2022) — It’s the “Quiet Storm” versus a “Royal Storm,” a can’t-miss featherweight matchup with a title shot on the line. Two-time world title challenger Joet Gonzalez will take on former junior featherweight world champion Isaac “Royal Storm” Dogboe in a 10-round main event Saturday, July 23, at Grand Casino Hinckley in Hinckley, Minnesota. Gonzalez will put his WBO International belt on the line, with the fight also serving as a WBC world title eliminator.
In the 10-round lightweight co-feature, undefeated contender Giovanni “El Cabron” Cabrera hopes for a signature win against the flashy Gabriel Flores Jr.
Gonzalez-Dogboe, Cabrera-Flores and undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+.
Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Rapacz Boxing, tickets starting at $35 go on sale Wednesday, June 15 at 10 a.m. CST, and can be purchased by visiting eTix.com.
“Joet and Isaac are guaranteed entertainment each time they step through the ropes, and I have no doubt they will combine for an action-packed main event,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “With Cabrera and Flores in the co-feature, this is a truly sensational summertime card at the Grand Casino in Hinckley.”
Gonzalez (25-2, 15 KOs), from Glendora, California, is considered one of boxing’s best uncrowned champions, a 10-year pro whose only defeats have come to Shakur Stevenson and Emanuel Navarrete in separate bids for the WBO featherweight world title. Gonzalez’s October 2021 decision loss to Navarrete was considered one of the best action fights of the year and did little to diminish his standing. He is currently rated No. 1 by the WBO and No. 3 by the WBC, which comes off the heels of his ninth-round knockout over Jeo Santisima in March.
Gonzalez said, “The third time’s a charm, and I’m more motivated than ever to have a world title around my waist. Isaac Dogboe always comes to fight. The respect is there, but on July 23, I am preparing to go to battle. I expect the best version of Dogboe, and I will be at the top of my game.”
Dogboe (23-2, 15 KOs), from Anyako, Ghana, burst onto the world scene in April 2018 with his title-winning knockout over Jessie Magdaleno. In his first title defense, he blitzed Hidenori Otake in the opening round. Dogboe’s rapid rise came to a halt with consecutive defeats to Navarrete, but he reignited his career with victories over Chris Avalos, Adam Lopez, and Christopher Diaz. The Diaz and Lopez bouts — 10-round majority decisions — were toe-to-toe barnburners that may serve as an indication what he’ll bring against Gonzalez. A 2012 Olympian, Dogboe has royal lineage, as his late grandfather, Torgbui Sri III, was the ruler of the Anlo state in Ghana’s Volta Region. His return to boxing royalty hinges on a victory over Gonzalez.
Dogboe said, “I have been tested against the very best, and on July 23, we go to war against another top contender in Joet Gonzalez. I am excited to be back in a main event as I continue my quest to become a two-weight world champion.”
Cabrera (20-0, 7 KOs) inked a promotional contract with Top Rank earlier this year and has notched decision victories over Rene Tellez Giron and Elias Araujo to make it 20 for 20. Trained by Freddie Roach at Wild Card Boxing Club in Los Angeles, Cabrera started boxing at 16 when he was inspired by Roach’s most famous pupil, Manny Pacquiao. He was raised mostly in Chicago and developed as a pro at the Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington, where he headlined six events. Following an October 2019 win in Chicago, he was sidelined for more than two years due to promotional and managerial issues. Since signing with Top Rank, Cabrera has re-established his standing as a contender to watch. Flores (21-1, 7 KOs), a 22-year-old from Stockton, California, saw his momentum come to a temporary halt with a one-sided loss last September to Luis Alberto Lopez. Less than six months later, Flores survived a gut check to edge a majority decision over Abraham Montoya. Prior to the Lopez loss, Flores became only the second man to knock out former world title challenger Jayson Velez.
Cabrera said, “I’m here to contend for the lightweight crown. I’m still getting better, and I still have a lot to prove. Gabriel Flores Jr. is a highly skilled fighter, but I’m used to taking on this level of challenge. I know he’s never been in with a fighter like me. His strategy against me will only be a guess, a shot in the dark, but how can you prepare for a style you’ve never seen? I’m going to train my butt off out of full respect for my opponent, and the fans will be the winners.”
“I am a different fighter at lightweight. The weight is no longer an issue, and you’re going to see the same fighter that knocked out Velez,” Flores said. “I like fighting southpaws, so if Cabrera thinks I don’t have the strategy to beat him, he’s going to be in for a rude awakening on July 23. I know what I need to do, and mark my words, I’m going to win this fight in dominant fashion.”
The undercard is scheduled to include many of Top Rank’s rising stars, including Italian heavyweight knockout artist Guido “The Gladiator” Vianello (8-0-1, 8 KOs) in an eight-rounder, featherweight prospect Haven Brady Jr. (6-0, 4 KOs) in a six-rounder, Milwaukee native Javier Martinez (6-0, 2 KOs) in a six-round middleweight bout, and 6’9 heavyweight Antonio “El Gigante”Mireles (3-0, 3 KOs) in a four-rounder against Minneapolis resident Dennys Reyes (3-2, 1 KO). Cleveland-born lightweight phenom Abdullah Mason (2-0, 2 KOs) and fellow Clevelander, light heavyweight Dante Benjamin Jr. (2-0, 1 KO), will represent “The Land” in separate four-rounders. Benjamin Jr. will fight fellow unbeaten Corey Thompson (4-0, 3 KOs), who hails from Coon Rapids, Minnesota.
Four additional Minnesota natives will add some local flavor to the card. Middleweight Antonio Woods (10-0, 8 KOs) is scheduled to appear in a six-rounder, while heavyweight Colton Warner (4-1, 3 KOs) returns in a four-rounder. And, in an all-Minnesota heavyweight showdown scheduled for four rounds, Cayman Audie (1-1, 1 KO) will do battle with Tommy Matlon (2-1, 1 KO).
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 22.3 million subscribers. ?? Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $6.99 a month (or $69.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices). It is also available as part of The Disney Bundle that gives subscribers access to Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu for $13.99/month (Hulu w/ads) or $19.99/month (Hulu w/o ads). Subscribers to Hulu + Live TV also receive ESPN+ at no additional cost.
Oshae Jones Wins Pro Debut; Omar Rosario Stays Undefeated
NEW YORK (JUNE 14, 2022)–Two Split-T Management had impressive victories over two venues in New York.
On Friday night, 2021 Olympic Bronze Medal winner Oshae Jones made her long awaited pro debut with a shutout six-round unanimous decision over Sonya Dreiling at The Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York. Jones was very impressive as she landed bloodied the nose of Dreiling in the opening frame and landed several eye-popping shots with one knocking the mouthpiece of Dreiling out. Jones of Toledo, Ohio won by scores of 60-54 on all cards to start her pro career off on the the right fioot.
Despite being cut under his right eye, Omar Rosario remained perfect with a six-round unanimous decision over Julio Rosa in a battle of undefeated junior welterweights. The bout took place on Saturday at The Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden. Rosario fought very well, as he showed smooth boxing ability to keep Rosa at bay. The win was especially pleasing as Rosario performed in front of many of his fans as the fight was staged on the annual card on the eve of the Puerto Rican Day Parade in New York City. Rosario of Caguas, won by scores of 60-54 twice and 59-55 to raise his mark to 7-0.
Rosario is promoted by Top Rank
Friday: Knockout Artist David Cuellar & Bantamweight Champion Yuliahn Luna Headline Mexican Fight Night LIVE on ESPN+
(June 14, 2022) — Undefeated junior bantamweight star David “El General” Cuellar hopes to notch his seventh consecutive knockout in a 10-round main event Friday evening against former world title challenger Yader Cardoza at Auditorio Municipal in Torreón, Mexico.
In the world title co-feature, WBC female bantamweight champion Yuliahn Luna will make the second defense of her title in a rematch versus Jessica Gonzalez.
Cuellar-Cardoza and Luna-Gonzalez headline a loaded night of fights streaming live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ starting at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
Cuellar (21-0, 14 KOs), a 20-year-old from Queretaro, Mexico, is one of his country’s dynamic young talents. He has not been taken the distance since September 2019, a run that has included stoppage victories over former world champion Moises Fuentes and longtime contender Ricardo Blandon. He knocked out Blandon in six rounds in February despite Blandon missing weight by more than five pounds. Cardoza (26-17-1, 8 KOs), from Nicaragua, challenged for the WBC light flyweight world title in 2013 and has fought many of this generation’s top lighter weight talents. After a two-bout losing skid, he’s 2-0 in 2022 with a pair of eight-round decisions.
Luna (23-3-1, 4 KOs) has won seven straight bouts and is looking to avenge one of the losses on her ledger. Gonzalez (8-5-2, 1 KO), from Mexico City, defeated Luna by 10-round decision in a 2014 non-title affair. Since the Luna victory, she has twice challenged for a world title, dropping a 2016 split decision to Liliana Palmera for the WBA 122-pound strap and a technical decision to longtime WBA 130-pound champion Hyun Mi Choi in 2017. Last September, she picked up the WBC Interim bantamweight title with a split decision over Tatyana Zrazhevskaya in Russia.
In other streaming action, unbeaten junior bantamweight Luis “Peluchin” Araujo (10-0-2, 7 KOs) will take on Hector Robles (11-5-2, 3 KOs) in an eight-rounder.
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CONFIRMED – DATE SET FOR HEBERT CONCEICAO’S PROFESSIONAL DEBUT
LONDON, JUNE 14 – Olympic gold medallist Hebert Conceição makes his long-awaited professional debut in Dubai this weekend. The Brazilian middleweight is set to fight over six rounds at Caesers Palace on Saturday (June 18), against an opponent to be confirmed, as he starts his journey to become an “idol” of the sport in his country.
Conceição, who was referred to as Hebert Sousa in the Olympics, won gold by knocking out Ukraine’s Oleksandr Khyzhniak in a dramatic final in Tokyo last August.
The 24-year-old now has his sights set on professional glory and bringing world title fights back to his homeland, where anticipation has been sky-high for confirmation of his paid debut.
“People have been stopping me in the street to asking me when my debut is going to happen – and now I can tell them!” said Conceição.
OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALLIST SIGNS WITH PROBELLUM
HEAVYWEIGHT JALOLOV IN SHUDDERING KO WIN
“I have lost count of how many times I have watched that winning punch from the Olympics but now I am focused on adapting to becoming a professional fighter, so I have been doing a lot of training since Tokyo.
“I have missed fighting, but now I need two years to gain the right amount of experience and then, in the third year, I want to be fighting for the world title.
“I want to be the new idol in Brazil, and I want to make boxing even more popular than it already is in my country.
“It is not only a dream, but it is a goal for me to have a huge fight in my home city of Salvador and the state of Bahia is where most of the known Brazilian fighters come from.”
Conceição wants to live up to the expectations of fighters from his home state, including former two-weight world champion Acelino Freitas and Robson Conceição, the WBC’s No2 ranked super featherweight.
But the gold medal hero is also inspired by the country’s other combat sport stars, especially ex-UFC middleweight champion Anderson Silva.
“I was hanging out with Anderson a few weeks ago in Dubai, and I spent some time training with him,” said Conceição.
“Anderson told me a lot about his life. We have a lot of things in common and I have been really inspired by his story.”
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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 has already held back-to-back world championship nights in Dubai, as well as a packed card in Newcastle.
The world title action then headed to Liverpool last month where Paul Butler won the WBO bantamweight crown.
Probellum’s elite stable of fighters also includes Nonito Donaire, Regis Prograis, Estelle Mossely, Sunny Edwards, Eimantas Stanionis, Donnie Nietes and Dina Thorslund.
But the company has also recruited the next generation of stars with Peter McGrail, Mark Dickinson and Pat and Luke McCormack, Shabaz Masoud and Spencer Wilcox among the young talents under the Probellum umbrella.
Since launching, Probellum has signed co-promotional partnerships with some of the biggest promoters globally, including DiBella Entertainment (US), Wasserman (Germany), Universum (Germany), GYM (Canada), Maravilla Box (Spain), Team Ellis (Australia), Titov Boxing Promotions (Russia), Volcano Boxing (El Salvador), BXSTRS Promotions (Mexico), PR Best (Puerto Rico) Glozier Boxing (New Zealand), Box Office Sports (Ghana) and LNK Boxing (Latvia).????
IBF CHAMPIONSHIP ANNOUNCED FOR GORMAN VS. SALEK ON FRIDAY JUNE 17 IN LIVERPOOL
Nathan Gorman (18-1, 12 KOs) will not only be fighting for the honour that his fighting heritage demands, but also for the IBF International Heavyweight Championship title when he faces Tomas Salek (17-3, 13 KOs) on Friday June 17 as part of a huge night of free-to-air boxing at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, live on Channel 5.
With his cousin Tyson Fury, and being great-nephew to the bare-knuckle fighting phenomenon Bartley Gorman, fighting is clearly in his blood. This does not act as pressure for Nathan Gorman, but a welcomed opportunity to continue the Gorman name being carried on to future successes.
“I do come off a long bloodline of fighters. I can go back maybe two or three hundred years to my great great grandfather, all the way to me at this present time. The last bare knuckle in our family was Bartley Gorman which everyone already knows of, he’s very famous throughout Britain.
“It’s good that his legacy lives on, and I’m happy to be a part of it and happy to have this surname. Hopefully I can bring it into the boxing ring and take it to the world title stage.”
Not only is it the past of this fighting family that spurs him on, but the support of present-day members. After Gorman’s loss to Daniel Dubois in 2019 it was his cousin, the current WBC and The Ring magazine champion, Tyson Fury who came to his aid.
“He (Tyson) rang me a day or two after the fight and said ‘It’s boxing, one punch can change everything in the heavyweight division. It’s not how you go down, it’s how you bounce back up and keep going forward and keep progressing – it’s all experience,’” said Gorman.
“I took a long time out of the ring; I needed to find myself, regroup myself, and change a lot of things around me. Here we are today, I’m headlining my own show in the next few weeks so it doesn’t get any better.”
The addition of the IBF International Heavyweight Championship title has welcomed a new level of incentive for both fighters. Gorman has never denied his ambitions when it comes to fighting for world titles, and this is a step in the right direction to make them dreams a reality.
“I’m topping my own show, then I got this news confirmed that I’m fighting for the IBF belt, absolutely fantastic. Live on Channel 5, and fighting for a very well-known ranked belt. I imagine a few things have changed for both me and Tomas Salek now – there are more marbles on the line here now.
“Winning the title and pushing within that top 10 in the world, and the way heavyweight boxing is booming at the minute excites me for the fantastic fights that can be made there. It’s following the right path to where I want to be, and hopefully fighting for a world title in the years to come.”
Ahead of this huge heavyweight clash, made bigger now the IBF strap is on the line, this opportunity is not only big for Gorman but even bigger for his opponent Tomas Salek. It is a genuine chance for the Czech fighter to try an derail Gorman in his home nation.
“Tomas Salek is a really good, really sound, boxer and is coming off the back of two good wins as well as being the champion of his country,” said Gorman.
“He’ll be looking at this like he’s headlining a big show, on Channel 5 in front of a huge viewing audience, and potentially able to put himself in the driving seat to get another massive fight. I am expecting the best Tomas Salek, and I know I’ll get that, but he’s also getting the best Nathan Gorman.”
With fight week commencing, it is all business. Gorman happy to acknowledge the abilities of the man standing in his way for title glory. Alongside this appreciation, it is still strictly business, with the English fighter ready to produce a performance to wow the Chanel 5 audience and all those in attendance.
“Expect a boxing show, fireworks. Tomas Salek doesn’t take a backwards step, so I’m expecting a real good fight. This isn’t going the distance.”
Heavyweights collide as Nathan Gorman (18-1, 12 KOs) takes on Tomas Salek (17-3, 13 KOs) as part of a huge night of free-to-air boxing on Friday June 17 at the M&S Bank Arena. ‘Pretty Boy’ Josh Kelly (10-1-1, 6 KOs) also features alongside the professional debut of Aaron Chalmers and former Team GB fighter Chloe Watson (2-0) as she continues her undefeated start as a professional under the tutelage of Ricky Hatton, fighting over 6 rounds in the Flyweight division against Fara El Bousairi (5-2, 1 KO). The undefeated Paddy Lacey (2-0) and John Edwardson (2-0) will both be looking for wins in front of their home crowd, with Mason ‘Nutty’ Cartwright (17-3, 7 KOs) and heavyweight’s Hosea Stewart (2-0) and giant ‘Magic’ Matty Harris (2-0, 1 KO) also promising to provide Liverpool with more highlight moments. Promoted by Wasserman Boxing, live on Channel 5, in association with William Hill, Numan and Infinitum Entertainment.
IBF MINIMUMWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION YOKASTA VALLE SIGNS CO-PROMOTIONAL AGREEMENT WITH GOLDEN BOY
LOS ANGELES, CA (June 13, 2022) – IBF Minimumweight World Champion, Yokasta “Yoka” Valle (25-2, 9 KOs), of San Jose, Costa Rica has signed a co-promotional agreement with Golden Boy. The fearless fighter was last seen defending her world title for the fifth time on the undercard of Jaime Munguia vs. Jimmy Kelly on June 11.
Ranked as the #3 best female 105-pounder by ESPN.com and The Ring Magazine, Yokasta Valle is a world champion in two weight classes. She captured the IBF Atomweight World Title in 2016 and has held the IBF Minimumweight World Championship since 2019. The Costa Rican fighter has been undefeated since 2018 and has made five successful world title defenses. Valle was named 2021’s “Female Fighter of the Year” by the International Boxing Federation. Now, the world champion is looking to unify the division against any world champion up for the challenge.
“I am very excited for this opportunity to be part of the Golden Boy family,” said Yokasta Valle. “This is a dream come true and a historic achievement for my country, Costa Rica. I want to thank Golden Boy and Robert Diaz for this great opportunity. I also want to thank my team, Marvin Rodriguez, Mario Vega and everyone who has made this great accomplishment possible.”
“Yokasta Valle is a talented, fearless fighter that I am proud to welcome to the Golden Boy stable,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. “We are excited about her future, and we are looking forward to helping her accomplish her goal of becoming a unified world champion.”
“I’m delighted to be working with Golden Boy to take Yokasta Valle’s career to new levels,” said Marvin Rodriguez, Founder and CEO of MarvNation Promotions. “Yokasta is a talented fighter with an aggressive, entertaining style. I know she will continue to deliver action-packed fights on DAZN, a platform that has provided amazing opportunities for women’s boxing. I want to thank Roberto Diaz and everyone at Golden Boy for making this happen. This is the start of a great relationship with MarvNation Promotions.”
ABOUT GOLDEN BOY:
Los Angeles-based Golden Boy was established in 2002 by Oscar De La Hoya, the first Hispanic to own a national boxing promotional company. Golden Boy is a media and entertainment brand committed to making fighting entertainment more accessible and affordable. The company’s in-house production team develops creative original programming, holds the exclusive rights to top boxers, and has promoted some of the biggest and highest-grossing events in the history of the sport. Now, Golden Boy is one of the most successful boxing entertainment companies in the world and shapes the future of boxing for fighters and fans alike.
For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com. Follow on Twitter and on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing.