JAHYAE “GOLDEN CHILD” BROWN READY TO SHINE IN HIS HOMETOWN SATURDAY NIGHT (4/9) at RIVERS CASINO

Schenectady, NY (April 8, 2022) – A homecoming is in store Saturday night at the Rivers Casino Event Center when Schenectady’s own undefeated super welterweight, JAHYAE “GOLDEN CHILD” BROWN (10-0 8KO’s) steps in against veteran GILBERTO PEREIRA dos SANTOS (16-12 12KO’s) in 6 rounds of action.

Brown recently earned a TKO victory in Colombia this past December. Prior to that he defeated Dormedes Potes (then 12-2-1 9KO’s) in April to win the ABF Super Welterweight Title. Since turning professional in 2019, Brown has shown both boxing prowess and a knack for finding the knockout, with 8 of his 10 professional fights coming to a close before the final bell.

As for his hometown debut Saturday night, Brown is ready, “I think about my fight every day,” said Brown in an interview with News 10 ABC. “I play it in my head, like the crowd, me walking out, everybody cheering loud, just staying composed. I’m just there to make a statement and put on for the whole 518 and stay focused.”

The main event features a double cruiserweight championship clash as Italian, SIMONE “TYSON” FEDERICI (18-2-1 8KO’s) puts his WBC CA Title on the line against Ukrainian born, Pittsburgh based, LYUBOMYR “DEMOLITION MAN” PINCHUK (14-2-1 8KO’s) who puts his NABA Gold Title on the line.

Doors to the Rivers Casino Event Center will open at 7PM and the action will start 8PM. Tickets to the event are available HERE. The action will be stream LIVE and direct via FITE.TV PPV and can be purchased HERE.
The Rivers Casino fight card is presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing on April 9, 2022 at Rivers Casino & Resort in Schenectady, NY.
Bouts subject to change

SIMONE FEDERICI vs LYUBOMYR PINCHUK OFFICIAL FIGHT TRAILER
Simone Federici vs Lyubomyr Pinchuk WBC CA & NABA Gold Title Bout Trailer

FIGHT NIGHT TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE!
BUY TICKETS HERE!
TICKETS START AT JUST $50
FIGHT NIGHT: SATURDAY, APRIL 9 AT RIVERS CASINO SCHENECTADY
About Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady: Located at the picturesque Mohawk Harbor near the heart of downtown Schenectady, Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady features 1,050 slots, 67 live table games and a 16-table poker room and a live, in-casino luxury sportsbook lounge. The casino offers five distinctive restaurants—among them are Dukes Chophouse, Flipt, Johnny’s To-Go and Mian. Rivers features a multipurpose Event Center space, a lively entertainment lounge—Van Slyck’s, live music performances, free parking and daily promotions and giveaways. The Landing Hotel is a 165-room, six-story boutique hotel with riverfront views located adjacent to the Event Center. Rivers, which opened in 2017, employs approximately 1,200 team members and has been voted a great place to work in Schenectady. Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady is owned and operated by Rush Street Gaming and its affiliates. For more information, visit RiversCasino.com/Schenectady.

RockinFights.

ROCKIN’ FIGHTS ARCHIVES:
Rockin’ Fights 41: Oleh Dovhun vs Geram Eloyan – NABA Title (Highlights)
OLEH DOVHUN defended his NABA title for the first time against Belgium Bruiser GERAM ELOYAN in the main event at Rockin’ Fights 41!
Rockin’ Fights 35: Tyrone “Pretty Boy” James vs Ray Oliveira Jr.
TYRONE “PRETTY BOY” JAMES left his mark on “Rockin’ Fights” 35 with a vicious TKO victory over RAY OLIVEIRA JR. to remain undefeated!




Press Conference Notes: Unified Champ Mikaela Mayer Ready for Former Champ Jennifer Han

COSTA MESA, Calif. (April 7, 2022) — WBO/IBF junior lightweight world champion Mikaela Mayer, the Southern California native who is now one of the sport’s top pound-for-pound talents, is ready for her home region title defense.

Mayer will defend her belts against former featherweight world champion Jennifer Han on Saturday evening at the Orange County Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, California (ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+, 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT).

At the press conference, it was announced that Mayer inked a multi-year contract extension with Top Rank. Mayer signed with Top Rank after representing the U.S. at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

In the 10-round co-feature, welterweight contender and San Diego native Giovani Santillan will battle Jeovanis Barraza. The ESPN telecast will open with former world champion Andrew Moloney versus Gilberto Mendoza in an eight-round junior bantamweight tilt.

The ESPN+-streamed undercard (7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT) features former two-time bantamweight title challenger Jason Moloney and the professional debut of U.S. Olympian Virginia Fuchs in a four-round flyweight fight.

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

Mikaela Mayer

“Ever since I walked into a gym 14 years ago, I’ve been fighting for a place for women in the sport and to prove that we are a powerful force in the sport of boxing. This contract solidifies that. I’ve completed that goal to an extent. Obviously, there is a long way to go with creating equality in the sport and closing that gap, but I couldn’t be happier with this contract. It’s a dream contract. It’s a contract I have been fighting for all these years, and I wouldn’t want to do it with anyone else but Top Rank.”

“I haven’t fought in LA in a long time. It’s kind of come full circle. I started here 14 years ago when I was 17. And I left at 19 years old with a dream: to become an Olympian and become one of the best female fighters in the world. Fourteen years later, I’m here fighting in the main event on ESPN. I’ve come a long way.”

“I’ve known Jennifer for a long time. In one of my first amateur tournaments, she was there cornering for her sister. She was around, and she had already been in the game. She’s been in this game for a really long time. She comes from a family of fighters, so it’s in her blood. She just went 10 rounds against the 135-pound undisputed champion, Katie Taylor, so I have tons of respect for her. I know she has experience and has trained hard, and we didn’t look past her at all in preparing for this fight.”

“It’s no secret that I wanted to continue to unify. I wanted Alycia Baumgardner. I wanted Hyun Mi Choi. That was my first choice. They’re not quite ready to step up to that, I guess, so we had to look at another direction.”

“We wanted to fight someone who is strong and proven. We don’t want any easy fights. We want to continue growing and getting better. Jennifer Han had just come off a strong fight against Katie Taylor, and we thought that would be a good matchup for now. We trained hard for her. We know that she had just given birth going into the fight with Katie Taylor and she still did what she did, but we expect her to be even sharping coming into this fight.”

Jennifer Han

“I’ve been in boxing for over 20 years. I’ve worked my entire life for these kinds of opportunities. When I first started boxing, I didn’t think these things would happen. I didn’t think I’d be headlining on ESPN. This is amazing. I am very, very grateful.”

“This is huge. When I first started boxing, we were working hard just to get put on television. During my championship reign, I never got televised, and it was very frustrating. Women’s boxing has grown a lot. And I’m very excited to finally be on TV to showcase our talent.”

“The Katie Taylor fight was quite an experience. It was right after I had my second child, so I had quite the obstacle of losing weight, which is not fun. But it’s OK. It’s part of boxing, and she wouldn’t have called me if I was ready. I have no regrets. It was a great experience for me, but that was not my best performance.”

“I’ve had time since then. I’m ready. I’m prepared. And this fight came at the right time. Top Rank could have chosen anybody else. Mikaela could have chosen anybody else, but you gave me this opportunity. I’ve prepared. I’ve worked hard. And this is my time.”

Giovani Santillan

“I like fighting in Southern California. It was great to have been able to fight in San Diego, my hometown. I think that San Diego has a lot of boxing fans, and to have a show out there is great for everybody. To be in the co-main event of that show was amazing. Now we’re in Costa Mesa, which is only an hour away from San Diego. I expect a lot of fans, friends and family to be there.”

“I’m ready for a title shot. I think I’m there. We definitely want the big fights. Hopefully, this year we get closer to something like that. Hopefully, we can be the main event in San Diego. This Saturday night will be important for me because it will set the tone for what I’m going to do for the rest of the year.”

“With every fight, there is always pressure. You always have to perform as a fighter, especially fighting on ESPN. You always want to do your best. I think I’m undefeated for a reason. We’re always thinking about trying to get the bigger fights. I’m always working hard because I want to give the best version of myself in each fight.”

Jeovanis Barraza

“I feel great. I first have to defeat my first opponent, which is the scale, and then I’ll just wait for Saturday. I had a great training camp. I corrected things in sparring every day. That’s what this sport is about. You have to be correcting things every day.”

“In this fight, the important thing is to be able to deal with different styles. Depending on the opponent, you have to change your style. That’s what I’m planning to do.”

Andrew Moloney

“I feel like this weekend is my opportunity to redeem myself and show that I’m a much better fighter than what you saw in those two losses to Joshua Franco. I learned a lot from that trilogy. Over the last seven or eight months, I have been working extremely hard to improve as a fighter.”

“I really feel like I’ve done that. I’ve shown it in the way I’ve been performing in the gym and in sparring. I really feel now like I can beat any super flyweight in the world. My plan now is to go out there Saturday night, put on the best performance of my career and earn my opportunity to again fight for a world title and ultimately become world champion again.”

“There are so many good fights out there in the super flyweight division. I just want to prove that I belong at the top of that division. I would love the opportunity to fight any of the world champions right now. I truly believe that I can beat any one of those guys, but that all starts this Saturday night.”

Jason Moloney

“It’s great to be back over here. This really does feel like our second home now. It’s been seven months since my last fight. I’ve been working hard every day, and I’m ready to put on a really impressive performance.”

“It’s time for us to get the ball rolling. We plan on finishing this year with two world titles around our waist. And as Andrew said, that all starts this Saturday night by getting two wins and moving forward.”

“There is always pressure. I’ve got some big plans for this year. But, firstly, this man Pedroza is in my way. He wants to take away everything that I’ve worked for. So, I can’t let that happen. I’ve got to go out there and get the job done.”

Virginia Fuchs

“I’m very excited. I’ve been waiting for this for a long time. Initially, I was planning on going pro after the 2016 Olympics, but I didn’t qualify in my weight class. And I’d always wanted to be an Olympian. So, I just had to go for that dream first and go another round. I made it, and I competed in Tokyo. Now I’m here, and I’m excited.”

“This is the perfect way to make my debut. I knew Mayer would be headlining at some point. Did I think I we would be on the same card? Maybe not. But I knew I would eventually want to, and my pro debut is the perfect way to do it.”

“I want to get a world title fight as soon as I can and show the world what I can do. I definitely think that I have more of a professional style. I like to go longer rounds. I like to take my time. Now, I get to take my time, sit down on my shots and get some knockouts in. You’ll see my experience in the ring.”
 
SATURDAY, April 9
ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+
10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT

Mikaela Mayer vs. Jennifer Han, 10 rounds, Mayer’s WBO & IBF Junior Lightweight World Titles

Giovani Santillan vs. Jeovanis Barraza, 10 rounds, welterweight

Andrew Moloney vs. Gilberto Mendoza, 8 rounds, junior bantamweight

Live and Exclusively on ESPN+
7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT

Floyd Diaz vs. Blake Quintana, 6 rounds, junior featherweight
Jason Moloney vs. Francisco Javier Pedroza, 10/8 rounds, bantamweight

Duke Ragan vs. Diuhl Olguin 6 rounds, featherweight

Virginia Fuchs vs. Randee Lynn Morales, 4 rounds, flyweight

Luis Alberto Lopez vs. Raul Chirino, 8 rounds, featherweight

OFF-TV 

Lindolfo Delgado vs. Gustavo David Vittori, 8 rounds, junior welterweight




ERICKSON LUBIN VS. SEBASTIAN FUNDORAFINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

LAS VEGAS – April 7, 2022 – Top super welterweight contenders Erickson “Hammer” Lubin and Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora squared off at the final press conference Thursday before they meet for the Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title this Saturday, April 9 live on SHOWTIME in a Premier Boxing Champions event from The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, part of Curio Collection by Hilton.

The press conference also featured former world champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison and highly regarded contender Sergio Garcia, who meet in the 10-round co-main event, plus unbeaten Kevin Salgado and Bryant “Goodfella” Perrella, who battle in the 10-round telecast opener.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from Virgin Hotels Las Vegas:

ERICKSON LUBIN

“I always knew I would get back to title contention. I dared to be great early. I tried to dethrone Jermell Charlo when I had just turned 22. I always knew I would be back in this position. It’s been only five years since that fight and I just get better every time I step into that ring.

“We don’t underestimate anybody. He’s a tall statue of a guy, but skills pay the bills. We go into camp and we draw up a game plan and then we execute on fight night. He’s a good fighter who comes in shape, but my skills will be the difference.

“We came out to Las Vegas so we can be isolated and away from all distractions. I go straight from the gym to my room to watch film. My trainer Kevin Cunningham is a mastermind in this game. He’s dealt with some of the greatest fighters of our era. I plan to be no different. I’m coming here to do great things.

“We went up weight classes in sparring but only a couple weight classes. Kevin has had the plan for this fight a long time ago. We came into camp strong and now we’re ready.

“I took the Charlo fight only three years into my career. I haven’t lost since, and my experience level is just getting better. My ring IQ is getting higher and I’m just fully prepared.

“I learned not just from my own loss, but from other people’s losses as well. My focus after the Charlo fight was just about getting back to the top.

“I fought in my 15th fight someone who was a couple inches shorter than Fundora. I’ve been in the ring with all types of people. I spar guys who are near Fundora’s height, including Jamontay Clark, who came into camp with me. The height doesn’t mean much to me.

“I have dynamite in both hands. I believe that I’m capable of blasting out everyone I’m in the ring with. I’m here to win.

“Saturday night is about continuing our legacy. I’m here to make a statement and dominate.”

SEBASTIAN FUNDORA

“This is extremely important for me… Being in this position just shows that hard work pays off. We all grew up in the sport at the same time. Lubin and I both grew up in Florida and it’s nice to be recognized for our hard work.

“I’m going to do my thing on Saturday night. We’re here to win. No matter how the fight goes, that’s the goal. This is a dream come true and it’s about time I get to be in the main event on SHOWTIME.

“I trust my power. If it goes to the decision that’s great, but if the knockout presents itself, I’m going to be ready to take advantage of it.

“The past five fights I’ve had were all hard fights. I gave Sergio Garcia his first loss and I’m planning on giving Erickson Lubin his second defeat.

“I’m finally here fighting for an interim title and hopefully the next fight is for the world title. I hope all the fans who have been following my career tune in on Saturday for a great fight.

“Wherever I go in Mexico, the fans recognize me. It feels like home. My sister is going to be fighting there this month so I’m planning to be celebrating with my people then.

“We’re both human beings and there’s no need to be disrespectful outside of the ring. Once we step in there and the lights turn on, all that respect goes away.

“I can guarantee this fight is going to be an inferno. We’re number one and number two. Winner fights the champion for sure, so we’re going to give our all.”

TONY HARRISON

“This is a great card all the way through with all of us at the same weight. We can all gauge each other. I’m definitely going to be watching Fundora and Lubin. We’re all competitive and the best man is going to win throughout the night.

“For me, Perrella was a fight that I probably took a little soon after losing my father and trainer Ali Salaam. I think I rushed into it a little too fast and he took the opportunity coming in weight and came in strong. Everything was working in his favor. I thought I pulled it out but it was a close fight.

“My brother L.J. and I grew up together, but because of the business side, we clash heads a lot. Sometimes it takes us out of our business of being brothers. In this sport you have to be strong-minded and strong-willed. We always make up. I wouldn’t want to have anybody else in my corner. My brother is a guy who knows how to talk to me and say what needs to be said to push me harder.

“I brought in Fareed Samad for this camp, who was able to add in some of the stuff my brother was missing. He really knows the sweet science and it really gives me great balance with my whole team.

“I just have to find a way to win. That’s the name of the game. It doesn’t matter how we do it. I don’t know anything about Sergio, and that makes him one of the toughest opponents I could have chosen.

“It’s hard to fight guys like Sergio because they’re such good people. I know he’s trying to butter me up, but I respect that he’s humble and ready to fight.”

SERGIO GARCIA

“I took only positives from my fight with Fundora. We gave the fans a great fight and I learned a lot of valuable lessons that I’m going to apply to this fight against a former world champion. I’m going to be even better on Saturday night.

“I’ve said from the beginning, I don’t run or shy away from any fights. My team gives me the best opportunities and I’m grateful for that. I’m taking this fight against Harrison just like he did when he won the title against Charlo. My family’s future depends on the results of this fight.

“I respect Tony so much and I know that he’s a great champion. Me and Tony are the only people that matter in this fight and the best man will win.

“I could tell you that I want to win, but I have to show it inside of the ring. My preparation and my training is always with the objective to win.

“It’s great to be here representing Spain in the major leagues of boxing. It’s amazing. I want to show everyone that I have staying power and I plan to prove it again on Saturday night.

“I’m going to lose all respect for Tony for 10 rounds on Saturday night, and then we can be cool again after the fight.”

KEVIN SALGADO

“I’m so excited to be facing this new challenge. I feel more prepared than ever. The goal is to create my own legacy and become a star here in the United States.

“My older brother Juan Carlos Salgado is in my corner and he supports me physically and mentally. He gives me great advice and I want to surpass what he did. I want to win all the titles and become a star in the U.S. That journey starts now.

“You’re going to see fireworks in the ring. It’s going to be quite a show and I would not be surprised if there is a knockout.”

BRYANT PERRELLA

“I’m very thankful to be here and it’s a pleasure to be part of this event and to be on this platform. The Tony Harrison fight was amazing. It was a great experience for me. I learned so much and have evolved into a whole new fighter since that fight and because of that fight.

“I’m a very difficult person to be in the ring with and I’m looking to show that on Saturday night. I don’t shy away from challenges. Losses don’t get to me, they just make me hungrier to come back even stronger. I’m a force to be reckoned with and I’m going to keep showing it.

“Whether it’s a knockout or it goes the distance, it doesn’t matter. I’m looking to put on a spectacular performance from that first bell.

“It’s been a mind-blowing experience working with Roy Jones Jr. as my trainer. He’s a genius in his field and it makes me feel like a kid in a candy store. I learn something new every day. It’s an incredible experience because he’s always bringing me something new. The sky is the limit with Roy [Jones Jr.] in my corner.”

#

ABOUT LUBIN VS. FUNDORA
Lubin vs. Fundora will see top super welterweight contenders Erickson “Hammer” Lubin and Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora square off for the WBC Super Welterweight Interim Title headlining action live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, April 9 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, part of Curio Collection by Hilton.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features former super welterweight world champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison taking on highly regarded contender Sergio Garcia in the 10-round co-main event, plus unbeaten super welterweight Kevin Salgado battling Bryant Perrella in the 10-round telecast opener.

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




CRUISERWEIGHT TITLE COLLISION THIS SATURDAY (4/9) AT RIVERS CASINO

Schenectady, NY (April 7, 2022) – With fight night just two days away, Italian WBC CA Champion, SIMONE “TYSON” FEDERICI (Lazio, Italy 18-2-1 8KO’s) and Ukrainian NABA Gold Champion, LYUBOMYR “THE DEMOLITION MAN” PINCHUK (Pittsburgh, PA 14-2-1 8KO’S) have put the work in the gym and are prepared to go toe to toe Saturday night.

The undercard features budding prospects from both the USA and abroad. In a light heavyweight scrap, Dublin, Ireland’s TONY “SUPERFLY” BROWNE (4-1) is prepared to make his USA debut against the always tough LEANDRO “APOLLO” SILVA (Sao Paulo, Brazil, 3-5 2KO’s) over 8-rounds of action. Browne was a standout amateur in Ireland and looks to make a statement in his US debut Saturday night.

Coming home for the first time in his undefeated career, Schenectady High School graduate, and undefeated super welterweight JAHYAE “GOLDEN CHILD” BROWN (10-0 8KO’s) takes a step up against Brazilian veteran GILBERTO PEREIRA dos SANTOS (16-12 12KO’s). The heavy handed Brown will step in with the heavy handed Santos in what is scheduled for 6 rounds, but could very well come to an emphatic finish well before.

Undefeated 22-year old super lightweight RYAN “THE SILENT ASSASIN” O’ROURKE (7-0 1KO) makes his much anticipated USA debut after ripping off all seven wins over the last two years since his pro debut in 2020. Opposing O’Rourke is fellow European, hailing from Lyon, France, FAYCAL REZKALLAH (6-1-1 1KO) over 6 rounds.

Finally, opening the action in a 4-round women’s lightweight bout is Hogansburg, New York’s own, MICHELLE COOK (1-3-2) against LIZ TUANI (1-6) of SeaTac, Washington.

Doors to the Rivers Casino Event Center will open at 7PM and the action will start 8PM. Tickets to the event are available HERE.
The Rivers Casino fight card is presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing on April 9, 2022 at Rivers Casino & Resort in Schenectady, NY.
Bouts subject to change

SIMONE FEDERICI vs LYUBOMYR PINCHUK OFFICIAL FIGHT TRAILER
Simone Federici vs Lyubomyr Pinchuk WBC CA & NABA Gold Title Bout Trailer

FIGHT NIGHT TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE!
BUY TICKETS HERE!
TICKETS START AT JUST $50
FIGHT NIGHT: SATURDAY, APRIL 9 AT RIVERS CASINO SCHENECTADY
About Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady: Located at the picturesque Mohawk Harbor near the heart of downtown Schenectady, Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady features 1,050 slots, 67 live table games and a 16-table poker room and a live, in-casino luxury sportsbook lounge. The casino offers five distinctive restaurants—among them are Dukes Chophouse, Flipt, Johnny’s To-Go and Mian. Rivers features a multipurpose Event Center space, a lively entertainment lounge—Van Slyck’s, live music performances, free parking and daily promotions and giveaways. The Landing Hotel is a 165-room, six-story boutique hotel with riverfront views located adjacent to the Event Center. Rivers, which opened in 2017, employs approximately 1,200 team members and has been voted a great place to work in Schenectady. Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady is owned and operated by Rush Street Gaming and its affiliates. For more information, visit RiversCasino.com/Schenectady.

RockinFights.

ROCKIN’ FIGHTS ARCHIVES:
Rockin’ Fights 41: Oleh Dovhun vs Geram Eloyan – NABA Title (Highlights)
OLEH DOVHUN defended his NABA title for the first time against Belgium Bruiser GERAM ELOYAN in the main event at Rockin’ Fights 41!
Rockin’ Fights 35: Tyrone “Pretty Boy” James vs Ray Oliveira Jr.
TYRONE “PRETTY BOY” JAMES left his mark on “Rockin’ Fights” 35 with a vicious TKO victory over RAY OLIVEIRA JR. to remain undefeated!




Luis “Koreano” Torres expecting tough fight vs. Irving Castillo in WCBS lightweight tournament final

LAS VEGAS (April 7, 2022) – “WCBS 4-Man Lightweight Tournament” favorite and hometown hero, Luis “Koreano” Torres (15-0, 10 KOs), is preparing for a very tough fight with Irving “Poderoso” Castillo (12-2, 8 KOs) in the June 2nd championship final for the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) Latino Lightweight Championship.

The 10-round main event championship final of the inaugural “WCBS 4-Man Lightweight Tournament,” presented by Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions (RJJ Boxing), will headline the June 2nd installment of RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS®.

All the action will be streamed live and exclusively from Palenque de la Expo in Obregón, Sonora, Mexico, on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT. To sign-up for UFC FIGHT PASS, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com.

Torres knocked out Rodolfo “Rudy” Flores (14-6, 6 KOs) in round four this past February at the same venue, after dropping him in the second and third rounds.

“It was a tough fight versus Flores, “the 20-year-old Torres said. “I knew I had to knock him out, so I just focused on the knockout and put technique aside. I wanted to give my fans a knockout and I got it.

“My upcoming fight will be different, more strategic. We need more boxing resources because he is a tall fighter who likes to control his distance, throwing long punches and side stepping very well. It will be a very difficult fight than the one I had with Flores.”

Torres vs. Castillo will be contested in a 10-round match and, if needed, an “overtime” round will be held to declare a winner in the event of a draw upon the conclusion of the scheduled distance. The tournament is sanctioned by the World Boxing Council (WBC). The winner will become the new WBC Latino Lightweight Champion, as well as receive a world rating from the WBC.

INFORMATION:

Websites: http://www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com, www.ufcfightpass.com

Facebook: /UFCFightPass, /WorldCupBoxingSeries

Twitter: @UFCFightPass, @RoyjonesJRfa, @RoyJonesJrOfficial

Instagram: @UFCFightPass, @WorldCup_Boxing_Series, @RoyJonesJrBoxing

ABOUT ROY JONES JR, BOXING PROMOTIONS: Co-founded in 2013 by 10-time world champion Roy Jones, Jr. and Keith Veltre, Roy Jones, Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions is on its way to reinventing boxing. RJJ has already made a huge impact in the boxing community in a few short years. Creating exhilarating content for UFC Fight Pass, CBS Sports, Showtime, ESPN and beIN Sports in some of the finest venues across the country, RJJ has proven it is conquering the sweet science of the sport.

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




THE BEST EVER: FLOYD ‘MONEY’ MAYWEATHER RETURNS TO THE RING TO FACE “DANGEROUS” DON MOORE, AS FRONTROW & ROQU MEDA, IN ASSOCIATION WITH MAYWEATHER PROMOTIONS, PRESENT INAUGURAL ‘THE GLOBAL TITANS FIGHT SERIES,’ LIVE FROM THE HELIPAD OF LUXURY BURJ AL ARAB HOTEL

(April 7, 2022) – Earlier today at a media event held in the Press Room of the Gabriel Miami Downtown Hotel, it was announced that on Saturday, May 14, 2022, the legendary undefeated multi-weight champion known as “TBE – The Best Ever,” Floyd “Money” Mayweather (50-0, 27 KOs), will return to the ring to face also undefeated “Dangerous” Don Moore (18-0-1, 12 KOs) in the headlining matchup of the inaugural edition of “The Global Titans Fight Series,” a unique global-boxing event, staged “in the skies of Dubai” and broadcast live, worldwide, via premium digital-streaming service LIVENow.

Presented by co-owners FrontRowTMT and ROQU Media, in association with Mayweather Promotions, the historic event, held incredibly, outdoors on the helipad of Dubai’s opulent Burj Al Arab Hotel, the UAE’s most iconic hotel and a global icon of Arabian luxury, will also showcase a fantastic undercard of world-famous combatants such as UFC legend Anderson Silva facing fellow Brazilian fighting star Bruno Machado in an exhibition bout, as well as an official fight between beloved former world champion Badou Jack (25-3-3, 15 KOs) and Hany “Egyptian Hurricane” Atiyo (16-4, 12 KOs) from Dubai via Egypt.

And in another history-making special feature of the event, all tickets for “The Global Titans Fight Series” will be sold as NFTs (platform to be announced). Those who secure an NFT ticket will be treated to unique and collectible features, including exclusive official fight videos, photography from the iconic event, a special 3D VIP ticket, plus lots more.

Mayweather, long known for his greatness in the ring and one of the most highly decorated athletes in all of sports is excited to return to the ring in this special event and location.

“I am always trying to push the envelope and if something is brought to my attention that has a unique aspect to it, I am always interested,” said Mayweather. “Having a fight on the helipad of the Burj Al Arab Hotel in Dubai and the opportunity to be the star of the show is going to be something I will remember always. People all over the world can buy the PPV and watch us fight high above, almost in the sky.”

Gary Indiana’s “Dangerous” Don Moore hasn’t lost a fight since turning professional in 1999. A long-time sparring partner of Mayweather’s during his career, and formerly trained by his late Uncle, Roger Mayweather, Moore says he’s in a unique position to give the great Mayweather problems when the two meet in May.

“I am excited to participate in this event,” said Moore. “Because of how much of the same training I received from Roger Mayweather, I am gonna be able to give Floyd real problems. I have been training hard to show everyone what ‘Dangerous’ Don Moore is all about and expose Floyd’s weaknesses. This is my shot, The time is now, Floyd isn’t invincible. Anyone can be beaten.”

In the hearts and minds of many, Anderson Silva is the greatest mixed martial artists of all time. Brazilian-American Silva holds the record for the longest title reign in UFC history at 2,457 days, including a UFC record 16 consecutive victories. As a pro boxer in his second, more recent career, Silva (2-0, 1 KO) already holds victories over Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and MMA legend Tito Ortiz.

“I can’t wait to do battle with my countryman in the sky!” said Silva. “This will be a great event for all the fighters and the fans and I look forward to putting on a great show for everyone. I am honored to share the card with Floyd Mayweather, a true boxing icon. Dubai is a beautiful place and I thank the organizers for asking me to be part of this epic event.”

Of Gambian-Swedish descent, Badou Jack is a fan and TV favorite and a former world champion in two weight classes (WBC Super Middleweight 2014 to 2017 and WBA Light Heavyweight 2017). Active in supporting his community, Jack is the Founder of the Badou Jack Foundation that was created with the purpose of giving underprivileged kids a fighting chance at a better future.

“I’m glad to be back in my second home of Dubai, to fight in front of all of my fans there once again and put on another great performance. Dubai is becoming the new fight capital of the world and events like this, featuring Floyd Mayweather, keep it spectacular. I always appreciate Floyd for his friendship and having my back.”

Having served as Floyd Mayweather’s International Touring Partner for years, Keane Anis, Founder of FrontRowTMT, and his FrontRowTMT Entertainment Team have more than 20 years of experience at organizing sporting events, concerts, beach parties and activations for celebrity tours, meet and greets and appearances. FrontRowTMT have worked with countless celebrity names such as Floyd Mayweather, N.E.R.D and Pharrell Williams, Usher, Chris Brown, Ne-Yo, Kelly Rowland, Shaquille, TGT, Rick Ross, T-Pain, Young Thug, Rich Homie Quan, Ty Dolla Sign, Tyga, Redman and Method Man, Ja Rule and Ashanti and P Square. A well-regarded and reliable colleague to celebrities and promoters across the entertainment industry, Anis says FrontRowTMT is proud to present “The Global Titans Fight Series” with his promotional partners.

“This is one of the most unique events of my career,” said Anis. “I’m looking forward to working with my team, Floyd’s team and my partners at ROQU Media to present this historic event to fight fans around the world.”

ROQU Media International (ROQU) is a multi-award winning group, producing some of the world’s greatest live events. ROQU’s premium-quality live shows are created specifically for global broadcast and feature incredible production elements. Each bespoke project is inspirational and exciting, delivering a positive impact to industry and community. ROQU creates some of the most memorable and meaningful event experiences on both sides of the stage.

“I give tremendous thanks to my team and to everyone who helped put this incredible event together,” said Founder Roqu Media, Robert Quirke. “With two of the greatest fighters to ever live in Floyd and Anderson, and a great champion in Badou Jack, fighting on an event being held in virtual heaven is an amazing opportunity for everyone involved and the fans are going to love it.”

Global Titans Fight Series is the first in a series of six special boxing and MMA events which will be staged at iconic locations across four continents. Each main event is broadcast globally, featuring champion fighters and NFT tickets. Fans can collect and trade their prestigious NFT from all future Global Titans Fight Series events. Tickets, NFTs and further Global Titans Event Series info can be found at www.Global-Titans.com. LIVENow, the premium destination for the best live sport, music and lifestyle content, is the official media partner and will livestream the event as well as partner with other broadcasters in selected countries.

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About Mayweather Promotions
Based in the entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas, Mayweather Promotions was established in 2007 by 15-time World Champion and undefeated boxing icon, Floyd “Money” Mayweather. Mayweather Promotions seamlessly promotes all forms of live entertainment. We are the past, present & future of sports & entertainment.

About Frontrow:
The Frontrow Entertainment team has more than 20 years of experience in the entertainment industry. Founder Keane Anis has been organizing all kinds of events, sporting events, concerts, beach parties and activations for celebrity tours, meet and greets and appearances with names such as Floyd Mayweather, N.E.R.D and Pharrell Williams, Usher, Chris Brown, Ne-Yo, Kelly Rowland, Shaquille, TGT, Rick Ross, T-Pain, Young Thug, Rich Homie Quan, Ty Dolla Sign, Tyga, Redman and Method Man, Ja Rule and Ashanti and P Square are few celebrities that are past and present Frontrow clients. Frontrow is proud to be a presenting sponsor of The Global Titans Event Series.

About ROQU Media:
Global Titans is owned and produced by ROQU Media International. ROQU is a multi-award winning group, producing some of the world’s greatest live events. ROQU’s premium quality live shows are created specifically for global broadcast and feature incredible production elements. Each bespoke project is inspirational and exciting, delivering a positive impact to industry and community. ROQU creates some of the most memorable and meaningful event experiences on both sides of the stage.

About LIVENow:
LIVENow, founded by Leeds United Chairman and Founder of Aser Ventures, Andrea Radrizzani, is a premium destination for content seekers who crave the best in music, sports, and entertainment. LIVENow was recently awarded ‘Live Music Innovation of the Year (Platform)’ at the 2021 Music Week Awards. They were also shortlisted in ‘Best Event Platform’ category for the 2021 DigiDay Technology Awards and ‘Live Music Experiences’ category for MIDEMLAB 2021, for the landmark streams of Dua Lipa: Studio 2054, Ellie Goulding’s ‘Brightest Blue’ and Gorillaz’s ‘Song Machine: Live from Kong’.

Previous events on LIVENow include EURO 2020, Celeste: On with The Show, Live From London, theatre production Our Little Lives: Shakespeare and Me starring Russell Brand, and an all-new four-part series, Live From Another World, featuring cutting-edge breakthrough bands.

Other previous events include:

· Top European football

· Australia vs India Men’s International Test Cricket and Big Bash League RIZIN mixed martial arts

· US Open

· IHF Men’s Super-Globe

· Tyson Fury Vs. Deontay Wilder

· The Heineken Cup and Champions Cup

· Pete Tong’s “O Come All Ye Ravers”, Gorillaz’ “Song Machine Live from Kong” and American Express UNSTAGED with Maroon 5 and SZA One World: Together At Home concert in support of the World Health Organization’s Covid-19 relief efforts




Undefeated and Unified Junior Lightweight World Champion Mikaela Mayer Re-Signs with Top Rank

COSTA MESA, Calif. (April 7, 2022) — WBO/IBF junior lightweight world champion Mikaela Mayer is staying where it all began. Mayer, a 2016 Olympian and one of female boxing’s premier pound-for-pound fighters, has signed a multi-year contract extension with Top Rank.

Mayer (16-0, 5 KOs) defends her world titles Saturday evening against Jennifer Han at Orange County Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, California (ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+, 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT).

“Mikaela has accomplished so much since making her professional debut in 2017, and she has only scratched the surface,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “She is a role model for young women in the sport and a tremendous talent. I believe she is well on her way to becoming boxing’s pound-for-pound queen, and she will be involved in the sport’s biggest events for years to come.”

Mayer said, “This contract represents everything I have been working for since I stepped foot in a gym 14 years ago. It’s a dream contract. A contract that women’s boxing has yet to see and proof that we are a powerful force in the sport of boxing and here to stay. I have always enjoyed working with Top Rank, and when I first signed with them five years ago, I knew I had a lot to prove. Every time I stepped into that ring, I fought to show the boxing world that I belonged and that women belonged. This contract tells me that I accomplished that goal. I plan on continuing that mindset for the next several years as we knock down even more barriers and create an even greater legacy.”

“Mikaela’s extension with Top Rank reflects her unique talent and a promoter’s vision in growing women’s boxing,” said George Ruiz, Mayer’s manager. “The rapid rise of women’s boxing over the last few years has been accelerated by Top Rank providing Mikaela with a platform to showcase her skills in the world’s biggest venues and in front of the biggest audiences as the main event on live ESPN broadcasts. She will now be one of boxing’s best-paid athletes. We can think of no better promoter and partner than Top Rank for Mikaela’s next phase as a world champion.”

Mayer entered the pro ranks following the 2016 Rio Olympics, becoming the first female to sign a pro contract with Top Rank in nearly two decades. As female boxing experienced a renaissance, Mayer became one of the sport’s leading figures. In July 2020, her fight against Helen Joseph was the first female main event since the revamped Top Rank on ESPN series premiered in 2017. Three months later, she shut out longtime champion Ewa Brodnicka to capture the WBO junior lightweight world title. Mayer had a banner 2021, dominating two-weight world champion Erica Farias in June and then outlasting Maiva Hamadouche last November to unify the WBO and IBF world titles in a Fight of the Year contender.

Mayer is currently ranked No. 5 on the ESPN.com pound-for-pound rankings.




GERVONTA DAVIS VS. ROLANDO ROMERO PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES 

BROOKLYN – April 7, 2022 – Five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis, boxing’s hottest attraction, and unbeaten No. 1-ranked contender and mandatory challenger Rolando Romero went face to face and chest-to-chest at a hot-tempered press conference on Thursday to preview their volatile matchup for Davis’s WBA Lightweight Title taking place Saturday, May 28 on SHOWTIME PPV from Barclays Center in Brooklyn headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The unbeaten rivals squared off ahead of their championship clash and declared their dislike for the other and intention to deliver fireworks on Memorial Day weekend in Brooklyn. During the ceremonial stare-down, the fighters did more than look at each other, waving their hands in the other’s face and showcasing the fiery rivalry that should make their fight so entertaining. A three-division world champion, Davis returns to Barclays Center where he delivered a star-making performance in 2017 as he thrilled the Brooklyn crowd by stopping Jose Pedraza to capture his first world title.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets are also available for purchase at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from Barclays Center in Brooklyn:

GERVONTA DAVIS

“We’re ready and we’ve been in camp. This isn’t our first time getting ready for ‘Rolly’. We saw how he choked up when the lights are in his face. We’ll see how he reacts when everyone is cheering against him on fight night.

“Some people are made to do it, and some people just talk their way through it. We know what we’re coming here to do on May 28.

“We’ll see what this guy brings on fight night, under the bright lights. I had to walk through the door when it was time and become the man. Come fight night, it’s time to step up to that plate.

“This isn’t going to be an easy walk. Like my coach said, it’s about respect. I’m a man and he’s a man. We have our differences. We’ll see who’s the last man standing come fight night.

“I won my first title here and I’m grateful to be back at Barclays Center. I just want to be the best that I can be. It’s time for me to show that I’m the man in this sport. I believe that I’m the face of the lightweight division and I just want to live up to that. My goal is to go out there and be better than I was yesterday.

“He’s just worrying about power, he’s not working on anything else. They’re only plan is to knock me out. I hit him with one of these and I’m going to knock his whole nose off. They just keep talking about knockouts and trying to get me out of there early, because they know he can’t last down the line.”

ROLANDO ROMERO

“I think ‘Tank’ is an amazing fighter, but this is going to be the easiest fight of my career. It’s going to say a lot about my legacy when I knock him out. ’Tank’ gets punched a lot. I think he’s going to run right into something big.

“I’ve always been underrated. May 28, you’re going to see my ring IQ on display. He’s the best fighter at 135 pounds and he’d be the best if he were at 130 pounds. It doesn’t matter to me though. I know what I’m capable of.

“I’m already a star otherwise I wouldn’t be in this position right now. I’m one of the few fighters to get to headline a pay-per-view 14 fights into my career.

“Everybody is underestimating me. I started boxing at 17 and I got my first belt seven years in. I’ve gone in there and beat up everybody. ‘Tank’ is getting knocked out and that’s that.

“Gervonta keeps talking about these skills he has, but I just see his face getting swollen up after every fight he has. He just bullies smaller opponents. He’s not that special. We’re ending his little reign and he can go retire.

“I was supposed to spend my birthday out here in New York anyway, so I’m excited to be fighting here in Brooklyn. This is a legacy fight for me and I’m excited to be able to have it at Barclays Center.

“Gervonta Davis is ending up on the canvas knocked out. That’s what I can guarantee.”

CALVIN FORD, Davis’ Trainer

“This is a big moment because this is where it all started for us. This fight is about unfinished business. This is our second time at this mark.

“I don’t have to worry about ‘Tank’. I want everyone to tune in or come down to the Barclays Center. Baltimore, New York, show up. Because you’re about to see something.

“These two guys have been going at it for years. It’s not about the ‘0’ this time, it’s about respect. I see ‘Rolly’ changed his look this time. It’s cold out there though. You better be ready. Because ‘Tank’ is back.”

BULLET CROMWELL, Romero’s Trainer

“As far as camp is concerned, ‘Rolly’ is dialed in and ready to go. We’ve had a great camp. Skill-wise and strength and conditioning-wise, his mindset is the best it’s ever been. I think we’re in for one of those record-breaking performances.

“Like they say here in Brooklyn, we’re the new kids on the block, but we’re not new to fighting. Somebody’s ‘0’ has got to go. This is a fight that’s ending in a knockout, there’s no other way to put it.

“Much respect to the Davis camp. They’ve put their work in and done their time, but we’re just here to derail that train. That’s exactly what we’re going to do.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“When you look at these two fighters, both of them are tremendous punchers. But what I think it’s going to come down to is who can take whose shot. Because in boxing, as we know, anything can happen.

“Being in boxing for over 25 years at the highest level, I’ve seen it all. When I look at how this fight will play out, ‘Rolly’ is a big underdog and ‘Tank’ is the favorite for a reason. ‘Tank’ has shown that right now he’s one of the best fighters in the entire world. In my mind, I know this is a very dangerous fight for him. I use Floyd Mayweather as an example. Coming through the ranks, I’ve seen him get hit with big shots. Whether it be Victoriano Sosa, DeMarcus Corley, Shane Mosley, or Marcos Maidana, Floyd was able to show you that he had a Hall of Fame chin. Come May 28, when those two get in there and go to war, we’re going to find out who has the better chin.

“We know that when it comes to skills, there’s no doubt that ‘Tank’ Davis has the best skills in the entire sport. We’re going to find out come May 28 if ‘Rolly’ hits him on the button, does ‘Tank’ have a strong chin or not? Also on May 28, Rolly has never been hit by a tank before. How is he going to respond? Will he be able to take it? Tune in May 28. I guarantee you this fight is going to end in a knockout.”

JOHN ABBAMONDI, CEO of BSE Global

“It’s a cold and rainy day in Brooklyn, but May 28 is going to be a hot night at Barclays Center. The eyes of the boxing world will once again be focused on this arena, and BROOKLYN BOXING is ready for another big night of fights.

In 2012 Barclays Center brought boxing back to Brooklyn for the first time since 1931. We’re looking forward to building on this program’s legacy for hosting major fights with the WBA World Lightweight title on the line.

This will be Gervonta’s third fight at Barclays Center, after he won his first and second titles at Barclays Center in 2017 and 2019. Welcome back to Brooklyn Gervonta. I know that I can speak for the fans in the toughest of New York’s boroughs when I say that we’re looking forward to having you headline here for the first time.

“To ‘Rolly’ I think you’re going to find that there’s a special energy fighting here and we’re excited to see it in the ring.

“The partnership that we have built with Premier Boxing Champions has been instrumental in providing a great platform for this sport. Barclays Center has had over 20 fight nights on SHOWTIME and we’re tremendously proud to have your platform showcase our venue to the world. I hope to see everyone on May 28 for another big night of boxing.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President of SHOWTIME Sports

“What we’re doing here at SHOWTIME is delivering competitive fights from top to bottom on each card. For the 22nd time on SHOWTIME, we’ll be doing that from Barclays Center and we’re thrilled to be back here. We have a long history here. SHOWTIME televised the first Barclays Center boxing event ever in October of 2012 between Danny Garcia and Erik Morales. Over the last eight years, Barclays Center has made a strong commitment to big-time boxing. May 28 will be the 40th boxing event the Barclays Center has hosted in the last 10 years. That’s quite a commitment and something that has been invaluable to the sport of boxing.

“This will be Gervonta’s 12th appearance on SHOWTIME. You’ve seen ‘Tank’ grow up literally in front of your eyes from pay-per-view pre-shows to fights overseas to championship fights and now his fourth pay-per-view headlining event. I remember the first time I saw ‘Tank’ fight in person. It was six years ago almost to the day. April 1, 2016, off TV undercard in D.C. underneath Adrien Broner. Floyd, Leonard Ellerbe and Mayweather Promotions told me this was a kid to watch. Well, they were certainly right about that. Less than a year later, he won his first title here at Barclays Center and now six years later, he’s headlining his fourth PPV.

“’Tank’s’ youth, his skillset, his box office appeal makes him one of the most popular fighters and one of the biggest draws in the sport. He’s sold out venues in L.A., Atlanta, Baltimore, and now his first headlining opportunity here in Brooklyn. Every time Tank steps in the ring, it’s must-see T.V.

“In this fight, ‘Tank’ has got another big personality in front of him. ‘Rolly’ Romero, 14-0 with 12 KOs, the number one contender in the WBA. It’s not an exaggeration to say that ‘Tank’ has never faced an opponent like Rolando Romero. He backs up his trash talk with brutal KOs. We’ve seen it on SHOWTIME. His debut on SHOBOX back in 2019 was a huge highlight reel knockout and ever since then, he’s established himself as one of the biggest punchers in the sport. He’ll be making his fifth appearance on SHOWTIME.

“If you ask Rolando, he says he gets his punching power from his dad, Rolando Sr., who was born and raised in Cuba and was a decorated boxer in that country’s amateur system. ‘Rolly’s’ father never got a chance to fight for a world title, so I don’t have to explain to you how meaningful an event this is for the Romero family.”

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #DavisRomero, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing , @MayweatherPromo, and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromotions and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions/.




GALAL YAFAI MAKES AMERICAN DEBUT ON TAYLOR-SERRANO CARD

Galal Yafai will make his American debut in the pro ranks as he defends his WBC International Flyweight Title against Miguel Cartagena on the undercard of the historic clash between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano at Madison Square Garden in New York, live worldwide on DAZN.
 TICKETS FOR TAYLOR VS. SERRANO ARE ON SALE NOW FROM TICKETMASTER.COM 
Yafai (1-0 1 KO) made his hotly-anticipated pro bow in February at The O2 in London, and showed why there was such a scramble to sign the 2020 Olympic Gold medal winner by stopping Carlos Bautista inside five rounds to land the crown he puts on the line in the Big Apple.
 
The 29 year old is the youngest of the three talented Yafai brothers from Birmingham, England, and follows former World ruler Kal in stepping through the ropes Stateside, but could face a hostile crowd when doing so against Cartagena (17-6-1 8 KOs), the Puerto Rican from Philadelphia who will be hoping the Puerto Rican fans there to roar on Serrano in the main event will back him to derail Yafai’s journey early.
 
“I’m hugely excited for my second professional fight on the historic Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano Undisputed Lightweight World Title show at the world-famous Madison Square Garden in New York on April 30,” said Yafai. “Big thanks to Eddie Hearn and Matchroom for getting me out so soon after my debut win in London earlier this year.
 
“Boxing at such an iconic venue in just my second fight is a massive box ticked for me and I’m looking to impress in front of an American audience and all around the world on DAZN. Miguel Cartagena is another opponent that will be coming to win on home soil, but I’ll be keeping hold of my belt with a stylish win and to show people how good I am.”
 
“This is a huge opportunity for me and one I’ve been waiting for,” said Cartagena. “I know they think this is a showcase for him, but they are in for a rude awakening. I wanted this fight. I’ve been asking for it.
 
“I know the Puerto Rican fans will be there supporting me and I don’t plan on disappointing them. They made a mistake and come April 30 they are going to find out.”

“This is a great opportunity for Galal to show the world what we all think – that he’s a very, very special fighter,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “These are the spotlights and platforms that rising talents thrive on, and i expect Galal to do just that – but with the Puerto Rican fans on his side, Miguel is going to give everything he’s got to spoil Galal’s night. It’s another great addition to what promises to be an unforgettable night in New York.”
 
Yafai’s clash with Cartagena is part of a huge night of action in New York, topped by Taylor and Serrano becoming the first female fighters to headline the iconic venue.
 
Jessie Vargas and Liam Smith meet in a must-win battle at Super-Welterweight and there’s more undisputed action on the card as Franchón Crews-Dezurn and Elin Cederroos decide who is the top dog at Super-Middleweight.
 
Austin ‘Ammo’ Williams is in a tough test with fellow unbeaten Middleweight Chordale Booker, Reshat Mati is always popular in his home city and the ‘Albanian Bear’ meets Joe Eli Hernandez over eight rounds, and Light-Heavyweight talent Khalil Coe makes the short trip from Jersey City to face William Langston over six.




JAZZA DICKENS’ NEXT FIGHT CONFIRMED AS HE FACES FORMER EUROPEAN CHAMPION ON LIVERPOOL RETURN  

LONDON, APRIL 7 – A former European champion stands in Jazza Dickens’ way as he sets out on the road to a second shot at the world featherweight title.

Dickens faces Andoni Gago over 10 rounds at Probellum Liverpool at the M&S Bank Arena on April 22, on a huge night of world championship boxing in the city.

The 33-year-old will be fighting in his hometown for the first time in almost three years and fully intends on making the most of being back on his old stomping ground.

Dickens, who now trains under Peter Taylor in Dublin, returns to action after losing last summer’s IBF world title fight with Kid Galahad and knows facing Gago is a tough way to start off on the comeback trail.

“I am back in front of my home fans for the first time in almost three years and I am so determined to make this moment count,” Dickens said.

“I have been working extremely hard for the past half a year and given I am fighting in Liverpool I would be crazy not to soak it all up.

“The way my career has gone, I don’t know when I will be fighting at home again, so I plan on making the most of this opportunity in front of my fans as I rebuild towards a world title fight.”

Spain’s Gago held the European title at 126lbs between 2019-2021 and Dickens is under no illusions as to what faces him later this month in Liverpool.

“Gago is a really good opponent for me at this point,” Dickens, who has sparred Tyrone McKenna in the build-up, said.

“Given his record and what he has achieved in boxing, I know this will be a tough night and a very good challenge.

“But I am feeling no pressure, only excitement about being back in Liverpool.”

Dickens’ eagerly anticipated return forms part of a card which sees a world title double header later this month.

Local hero Paul Butler challenges John Riel Casimero for the WBO bantamweight title, while Sam Maxwell – a former amateur club mate of Dickens’ – goes for the IBO super-lightweight crown on a ‘life changing’ night.

A packed bill also features the latest professional contests for Peter McGrail, Rocky Fielding and the debut of stand-out amateur Luke McCormack.

To keep up to date with all of the news ahead of Probellum Liverpool, sign up to the Probellum?newsletter?or follow Probellum on?Instagram,?Twitter?and?Facebook??

About Probellum???
Launched in September 2021, Probellum is a global boxing promotion and media company, and the fastest-growing brand in the sport.

Probellum’s elite stable of international fighters includes Nonito Donaire, Regis Prograis, Estelle Mossely, Sunny Edwards, Lee McGregor, Donnie Nietes, Dina Thorslund and Muhammad Waseem.

But the company has also recruited the next generation of stars with Peter McGrail, Mark Dickinson and Pat and Luke McCormack and Shabaz Masoud among the young talents under the Probellum umbrella.

Since launching, Probellum has also 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).?




FIVE-TIME WORLD CHAMPION GERVONTA DAVIS TO DEFEND WBA LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE AGAINST UNBEATEN CONTENDER ROLANDO ROMERO AT BARCLAYS CENTER IN BROOKLYN ONSATURDAY, MAY 28

BROOKLYN – April 7, 2022 – Big-time boxing returns to Barclays Center in Brooklyn as five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis, boxing’s hottest young attraction, defends his lightweight title against unbeaten No. 1-ranked contender and mandatory challenger Rolando Romero on Saturday, May 28 headlining a SHOWTIME PPV in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

A three-division world champion, Davis returns to Barclays Center where he delivered a star-making performance in 2017 as he thrilled the Brooklyn crowd by stopping Jose Pedraza to capture his first world title. The 27-year-old also owns a 2018 TKO win over Jesus Cuellar at Barclays Center that earned Davis his second world title. Now, in his third appearance at the venue, Davis will headline in Brooklyn for the first time.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets will also be available for purchase at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center beginning today at 12 p.m. ET.

“We’re bringing a monster event to Barclays Center on May 28,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “This is definitely one that you don’t want to miss. ‘Tank’ and ‘Rolly’ have some unfinished business and it’s finally going to be settled. Neither one of them believe that the fight is going the distance, and to be frank, I don’t either. Don’t wait to get your tickets. See you in Brooklyn on May 28.”

“SHOWTIME® is thrilled to return to the Barclays Center with the next chapter of Gervonta Davis’ storied career after he first announced himself with a title-winning effort at the Brooklyn arena in 2017,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “The Barclays Center doesn’t just conjure up fond memories for Gervonta, it’s also a special place for SHOWTIME, which broadcast the first ever boxing event there in 2012 and will return for the 22nd time with a bang on May 28. There’s no love-lost between Davis and Romero in this matchup, and I’d be surprised if this fight didn’t end in a knockout. It should be electric for as long as it lasts.”

“BROOKLYN BOXING is ready for another big night of fights and we are looking forward to hosting Davis and Romero as they compete for the WBA World Lightweight Title,” said John Abbamondi, CEO of BSE Global, parent company of Barclays Center and the Brooklyn Nets. “We are thrilled to be a part of bringing this matchup to life and to once again work alongside our partners at PBC, Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions, TGB Promotions, and SHOWTIME, who all share the same vision and dedication to continuing the legacy of world-class boxing in our borough.”

Davis (26-0, 24 KOs), star of the Mayweather Promotions stable, added another highlight filled year to his resume in 2021, topping two SHOWTIME PPV events. In June he stopped previously unbeaten Mario Barrios to capture a 140-pound title and become a three-division world champion before turning away top lightweight contender Isaac Cruz in a successful December 5 title defense. In October 2020, Davis scored an emphatic knockout over Leo Santa Cruz, making him the first person to ever drop the four-division champion. Davis has asserted himself as a must-see headline attraction, selling out venues in Los Angeles, Atlanta and Baltimore, ever since bursting onto the scene with that explosive knockout victory over Pedraza. The Baltimore-native captured his lightweight championship with a 12th-round knockout of former champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in December 2019.

“I’m excited and looking forward to fighting again in Brooklyn,” said Davis, who will be making his 12th appearance on SHOWTIME and fourth headlining on SHOWTIME PPV. “I have unfinished business with ‘Rolly’ and still plan on punishing him for as long as the fight lasts. Make sure you grab your tickets as soon as they go on sale or buy the SHOWTIME PPV if you’re not going to be able to make it. I’m going to be ready to put on a show on May 28 in front of all the great boxing fans at Barclays Center and around the world!”

Also a member of the Mayweather Promotions stable, Romero (14-0, 12 KOs) backs up his brash talk with power in both hands and an exciting and unique style that makes him must-see whenever he steps into the ring. Romero won an interim title in August 2020 by earning a close but unanimous decision over then unbeaten Jackson Marinez. The 26-year-old followed that victory up with a pair of impressive knockout triumphs in his last two fights. He dominated slick contender Avery Sparrow on his way to a seventh-round stoppage in January 2021, before most recently dropping former title challenger Anthony Yigit three times on his way to another seventh-round stoppage in July 2021. Fighting out of Las Vegas, the undefeated Romero began his pro career with knockouts in 10 of his first 11 fights.

“I’m actually more excited about this fight than the first time around,” said Romero. “I was unsatisfied with the events that led to the fight not happening, so I’m happy we’re here. I appreciate everything Leonard and Floyd Mayweather have done for my career development. I let them do what they do and here we are. I’m the mandatory, so I knew the fight was going to happen. Now, let’s settle this May 28. I’ve been in the gym this entire time because I don’t get fat like other fighters. Let’s face it, I’m the best-looking boxer inside and outside the ring, the fans want this fight. The boxer formerly known as ‘Rolly’ is here to stay!”

The first boxing event ever held at Barclays Center was a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® headlined by Danny Garcia’s fourth-round knockout of future Hall of Famer Erik Morales in their rematch on October 20, 2012. Garcia was also involved in the last SHOWTIME telecast at the Brooklyn arena when he decisioned Ivan Redkach on January 25, 2020. Davis vs. Romero represents the network’s 22nd airing from Barclays Center and the 40th pro boxing show there since the arena opened.

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #DavisRomero, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing , @MayweatherPromo, and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromotions and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions/.




GENNADIY “GGG” GOLOVKIN TALKS ABOUT TRAINING FOR RY?TA MURATA RUMBLE, THE BIG 4-0, FIGHTING IN JAPAN AND MORE

TOKYO (April 6, 2022) — Fight week is in full swing and throughout Japan, Gennadiy “GGG” Golovkin is being hailed as the biggest name to enter a ring in Japan since heavyweight champion Mike Tyson.   Tyson was knocked out by 40-1 underdog James “Buster” Douglas on February 11, 1990 — arguably the biggest sports upset of the 20th century — a fact not lost on Golovkin.  Boxing’s most dominant middleweight of his era, Golovkin (41-1-1, 36 KOs), from Karaganda, Kazakhstan, is finally in Japan, after several postponements caused by the pandemic, enjoying his first fight week since December 2020.  He has brought the Big Drama Show and his IBF and IBO world title belts to face two-time WBA middleweight champion and Japan’s national hero Ry?ta Murata (16-2, 13 KOs) in a long-awaited world title unification fight.  Promoted by Teiken Promotions, in association with GGG promotions, Golovkin vs. Murata will take place this Saturday, April 9, and will be streamed live from Saitama Super Arena in Saitama, just north of Murata’s hometown of Tokyo, to over 200 countries and territories, including the U.S., exclusively on DAZN (excluding Japan and Kazakhstan)beginning at 5:10 a.m. EDT / 2:10 a.m. PDT, with the main event scheduled to start at approximately 8:00 a.m. EDT / 5:00 p.m. PDT.  Golovkin and Murata boast a combined record of 57-3-1, 49 KOs — a winning percentage of over 93% — with 86% of their victories coming by way of knockout. 

Golovkin’s Big Drama Show has packed iconic arenas around the world, selling out Madison Square Garden, The O2 in London, the Fabulous Forum and StubHub Center in Los Angeles, and T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.  Saitama Super Arena is expected to join that illustrious list.  He has been a middleweight world champion every year since 2010, a testament to his discipline, drive, and talent.  GGG’s résumé includes a division-record 21 title defenses, 20 of them consecutively, also a division record.       

Here’s what Golvkin had to say about Murata, training, fighting in Japan, turning 40 on weigh-in day, and other things.

“Japan is the land of surprises, at least when it comes to boxing.  I remember what happened in the Tyson-Douglas fight.  It has been in the back of mind throughout training camp.  I already had a lot of respect for Ry?ta Murata, but Tyson-Douglas is a reminder to never  give less than 110% every day in training camp.  The last time I fought in Japan was over 20 years ago.  It was in the East Asian Games in Osaka.  I had a great time.    

“I have been in my Florida training camp — off and on — since October because of postponements.  First the fight was going to be last December, than there was a chance of it happening in February, and finally this Saturday.  I chose to train in south Florida because of the warmer weather and it was easier to get good sparring partners.  A lot of the fighters get sick in the cold climate of Big Bear in the late fall and winter months.  I really enjoyed training in Florida.  The biggest obstacle in these postponements, other than the frustration of not fighting, is peaking before the December and February dates and then pulling back and building up again.  It wasn’t easy, but every time I would break camp and go home, I would stay in shape by doing light conditioning and speaking with my trainer Johnathon Banks daily.  Johnathon would remind me every day, ‘Go steady.  Do not go heavy.’  between training camps. He was right.  I always returned to training camp energized and ready to go.  This last training camp resumed in early February.

“It is a challenge when fighting in a different country, especially if that country happens to be my opponent’s homeland.  But it spurs me on even more in training camp.  Now that I am in Japan, the adrenaline is starting to pump.  I am really excited to be here and to fight in front of the fans in Japan.  They really love and appreciate good boxing.

“Murata is a good, solid fighter.  There is a reason he has been an Olympic gold medalist and is a two-time WBA world champion.  He came to my training camp in Big Bear many years ago.  We sparred a little.  He was a very serious fighter.  He worked very hard in everything he did in camp, inside and outside the ring.  We got along very well.

“I am going to be 40 on Friday but I feel good.  I will continue fighting as long as I feel good and can train hard to fight at the level I have come to expect of myself.  Living a healthy lifestyle keeps me feeling good, strong.

“Murata is the most important fight.  Period.  I do not look ahead.  I have been fully invested in training for the fight I have in front of me.  I have too much respect for Murata and his body of work.  My focus is on him and winning his title.  That is why I am in Japan.  I look forward to fighting in a packed arena.  I have missed that energy.  It is going to be exciting because we both have similar styles of fighting.  We are both power punchers, we are aggressive and we come forward.  Diamonds cut diamonds and on Saturday, there will be two diamonds in the ring.  It will be a boxing gift to the fans  I expect it to be the fight of the year.

“Yes, I have been told by several reporters that Canelo wants to fight me again and that this time ‘it is personal.’  If it is so ‘personal,’ why has it taken him four years since our last fight?  He pretends it is personal.  I find it puzzling he would make such a claim.”                  

Hot From GGG – Murata Media Central

Fight Week Wednesday Edition

·         Nearly 40, Gennadiy Golovkin’s clock is tick, tick, ticking for Canelo Alvarez | Jerry Izenberg – nj.com

·         ‘Age gives me additional edge’ – Gennadiy Golovkin all set for unification fight | Press Association

·         Golovkin’s blockbuster Canelo trilogy at stake in Murata showdown (Agence France-Presse)

·         Boxing betting: Gennadiy Golovkin favored to win by knockout (yahoo.com)




American Dream Presents, Boxlab Promotions and GH3 Promotions sign Christopher Diaz

Orlando, FL (April 6, 2022) – American Dream Presents, Boxlab Promotions and GH3 Promotions have signed featherweight contender Christopher “Pitufo” Diaz to co-promotional contract.

As part of his new promotional agreement, Diaz will be featured on the Entrobox Fight Series on Bally Sports Network.

Born in Philadelphia, PA and raised in Barranquitas, Puerto Rico, Diaz has an outstanding 26-4 professional record with 16 of his wins coming by knockout. In 2017, Diaz won the NABO super featherweight title after knocking down Bryant Cruz four times en route to a third round stoppage. Seven months later, Diaz challenged Japan’s Masayuki Ito for the WBO super featherweight championship but came up short and dropped a unanimous decision.

The bilingual Diaz is a true blood and guts warrior who never backs down from a challenge. The 27-year-old’s faced unbeaten superstar Shakur Stevenson, WBO featherweight champion Emanuel Navarrete and former world champion Isaac Dogboe. Against Navarette, Diaz’ incredible effort and refusal to give up earned him respect across the globe.

“On behalf of my partners Boxlab Promotions and GH3 Promotions, we’re extremely pleased to be working with Christopher Diaz,” said Ron Johnson, CEO of American Dream Presents. “Fight fans know that he’s must see TV and we’re doing to do everything we can to help him achieve his goal of becoming a world champion.”

With a new promotional team and plenty of opportunities for the two-time world title challenger, Diaz is excited for what the immediate future holds.

“This is the beginning of a new era for Pitufo,” said Diaz, who resides in the Orlando area and has a large local following. “Bally’s is a great platform and they’re going to focus on my career so I am very excited about that. I’ve been working hard and am ready to take care business May 21.”

Diaz returns to the ring Saturday, May 21 at the Caribe Royale in
Orlando, FL against an opponent to be named.

A four diamond resort, the Caribe Royale is a 1,388 room resort that provides a luxurious and relaxing experience for guests of all ages. Amenities include a spa, five restaurants, kid’s splashpad and playground, a two-story fitness center and a large outdoor pool featuring a 75 foot waterside. Fully re-imagined and renovated with over $127m in improvements and expansion Caribe Royale is the premier all suite hotel in Orlando.




ZAB JUDAH AND ERROL SPENCE JR. VIRTUALPRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

ARLINGTON, TX. (April 6, 2022) – Boxing legend Zab Judah joined WBC and IBF champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. for a virtual press conference Wednesday as the fighters discussed the undisputed championship and previewed Spence’s upcoming welterweight championship unification clash against WBA champion Yordenis Ugas taking place Saturday, April 16 live on SHOWTIME PPV from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

Tickets for the April 16 live event at AT&T Stadium, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Man Down Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at SeatGeek.com, the Official Ticketing Provider of AT&T Stadium.

Just the 12th unification fight in the rich history of the welterweight division, Spence vs. Ugas will join other classic unification matchups at the weight class such as “Sugar” Ray Leonard vs. Thomas Hearns I and Floyd Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquiao. Spence will look to add a third belt by defeating Ugas, moving him one step closer to becoming the first undisputed welterweight champion since Judah accomplished the feat in 2005.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Wednesday:

ERROL SPENCE JR.

“It’s motivating to hear from Zab. When you grew up watching a person and now it’s your turn and they give you high praise, it’s especially motivating. I appreciate Zab’s support. A lot of older fighters don’t really give their support to the younger generation. I give much respect to Zab. His support means a lot.

“I remember when I was younger, watching Zab winning all the belts. That’s something I wanted to do. I never dreamed in a million years that I’d be doing that. It’s a dream come true. I just have to stay focused because every fight is the most important fight. This is the third time I’m taking someone’s belt. The welterweight division has had a lot of great fighters and a lot of great champions so doing it at this weight class is such a big accomplishment.

“It’s definitely gotten easier to fight in my hometown. You get a lot of pressure from fans, media and friends but you have to block all that out and focus on the task at hand. It’s still special to fight at home in front of your family, your friends, your day one fans too. That ring walk is special too—walking out and seeing familiar faces. You don’t get that in other places but at home they can come out and watch you fight.

“All of my training camps have been at home. I rarely go to a fight hotel unless I’m fighting out of state. I like the comfort of being at home, being around my family. I don’t like getting on planes, especially when you’re trying to make weight. You’ve got to hop out the plane, go to a boxing gym that you’re not familiar with. I’d rather just stay home.

“I don’t see any trickiness in Ugas. I think people put too much emphasis on that. Most Cuban fighters move a lot, get on their toes but Ugas is not even that. He’s a guy who tries to fight, he wants to fight and trade shots. I boxed Mikey Garcia, I banged with Kell Brook and Shawn Porter. I boxed in the paint with Lamont Peterson, slipping and countering. I don’t stand in front of opponents.

“I’m adding to my legacy. Every fight that led up to this is just as important as this fight because they got me to this point. If I didn’t beat those guys I fought when I was 9-0, 10-0, then I wouldn’t have gotten the Kell Brook fight. If I didn’t beat Brook, I wouldn’t have got the Shawn Porter fight, Danny Garcia and everything else. So, every fight means a lot to me because it leads me to better fights and more accomplishments.

“Being a student of the game and just my style makes me a throwback fighter. I feel I’ve always had a professional style, even in the amateurs. I was going to the body then, stopping people to the body. I always had that patience and that’s why I was highly-regarded once I turned pro. Also, I have a laid back personality so I transfer that over to my fighting ability.

“It’s about working hard every day, striving and staying on the grind. I want to show everyone that they don’t have to worry about anything. I’m going to perform to the best of my abilities and I’m 100%.

“It feels good to prove all the doubters wrong. It motivates me. For all the people who say certain things, I just use it as fuel. On April 16, they’re going to see not even the same version of me but a better one.

“Everybody tune in on Saturday, April 16. If you can’t be there at the AT&T Stadium, make sure you order it on SHOWTIME pay-per-view. It’s going to be an amazing event, an all-action fight. It’ll be one-sided on my end but you will see an exciting fight.”

ZAB JUDAH, Last Undisputed Welterweight Champion

“I have a lot of respect for Errol. Number one, for him being the human being he is. He’s a solid, solid fighter I’ve been watching since the amateurs. Errol was a guy who always stood out there. When he turned to the pros and began making a name for himself, I started watching him. He’s about to do something big and become the next undisputed welterweight champion of the world. I feel great passing on the torch, no joke. No joke.

“I feel I don’t have to give Errol any advice. He just needs to do what he has to do to win this fight – work behind his good jab and let his combinations go. Like I said, to pass the torch is dope. Errol Spence is the guy for the job.

“For me, I used to like Pernell Whitaker and he was an undisputed champion. Mike Tyson was another one who was undisputed champion. I got to live out my dream and watch those idols and be around those guys.

“It didn’t matter to me where I fought. Even when I went to win the undisputed championship of the world I had to go to St. Louis and Cory Spinks’ hometown and it was a crazy time for me. I got death threats and all kinds of stuff. But that meant nothing to me. I was focused. I was locked in. I know how Errol feels. When you’re locked into something and it’s your time, there’s nothing that can stop you. Nothing or nobody.

“I like watching [Errol] in the Shawn Porter fight, and the Danny Garcia fight. Errol showed a lot of heart and pulled through. He looked to be confused at times and he pulled through it. Shawn Porter came in with a bunch of ugly looks, but he figured it out. Even in the Danny Garcia fight he got caught with a good left hook, but he went back to his jab and started boxing. That’s a great thing about being great left-hander. You can start back with the jab and it’s all back together again.

“Yes, I would say Errol Spence is a throwback fighter. I would say he has throwback qualities. He’s still a young man and of this era, but he has throwback qualities.

“It was a phenomenal feeling when they strapped those belts on me. And I was in ring and I saw all these colorful belts being passed onto me. It felt like I had a bag of Skittles. I was so happy seeing all those colors. I was like, ‘Wow, this is amazing.’ And when I got back to New York they really embraced me and I had a parade and all kinds of things. The city opened up definitely.

“Yordenis Ugas is a very talented fighter. He’s a very hard worker and is a guy who’s worked hard to get where he is. And I have a lot of respect for him. I’ve never fought a Cuban fighter but I used to spar with Joel Casamayor and sparring with the Cubans fighters you know they are very crafty and they do a lot of things that we normally don’t do. Just little types of tricks that they got.”

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ABOUT SPENCE VS. UGAS
Spence vs. Ugas will see WBC and IBF world champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. and WBA world champion Yordenis Ugas square off in a welterweight title unification clash that headlines a SHOWTIME PPV on Saturday, April 16 from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features exciting lightweight contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz taking on veteran former world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in the 10-round co-main event.

The lineup also includes unbeaten Jose Valenzuela battling former world champion Francisco “El Bandido” Vargas in a 10-round lightweight fight, plus unbeaten Cody Crowley faces veteran contender Josesito Lopez in a 10-round duel of all-action welterweights that kicks off the telecast.

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




RYAN GARCIA VS. EMMANUEL TAGOE MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES

SAN ANTONIO, TX (April 6, 2022) – Fighters featured on the DAZN broadcast on April 9th, treated San Antonio boxing fans to a show as they each showed off their boxing skills during their media workout today. The event was streamed live on YouTube, hosted by Golden Boy Fight Night’s Beto Duran. Fighters featured at today’s event included the main event, Ryan Garcia (21-0, 18KOs) of Victorville, CA, who makes his grand return to the ring in a 12-round lightweight battle against the top-rated Emmanuel “The Gameboy” Tagoe (32-1, 15KOs) of Accra, Ghana. Also in attendance, the co-main event of the night, “King” Gabriel Rosado (26-14-1, 15 KOs) of Philadelphia, PA, and Shane Mosley Jr. (17-4, 10 KOs) of Pomona, CA, will face each other in a 10-round fight for the WBA Continental Americas Super Middleweight title. Houston’s Marlen Esparza (11-1, 1 KOs) and Tokyo’s Naoko Fujioka (19-2-1, 17 KOs) were on site to promote their 10-round fight for three world titles, the inaugural Ring Magazine Flyweight World Championship, the first-ever in the women’s flyweight division, and the WBC and WBA Flyweight World Championships. Also, Azat Hovhannisyan (20-3, 16 KOs) of Los Angeles, CA, was also onsite to talk about his upcoming fight against Dagoberto Aguero (15-1, 10 KOs) of San Cristobal, Dominican Republic, in a 10-round featherweight battle as the opening DAZN fight of the night, live from San Antonio’s Alamodome on April 9th. The DAZN live stream will begin at 6:00 p.m. PT / 8:00 p.m. CT / 9:00 p.m. ET.

RYAN GARCIA, UNDEFEATED LIGHTWEIGHT CONTENDER:

“Boxing is part of me. I have been doing this since I was seven years old and I am good at it. I know that I still have a lot left to give to the sport. I feel pretty safe in the ring. I am not taking a beating. Even in sparring I don’t feel like I am getting hit with a lot of shots. And fortunately, I am healthy enough to continue to fight at a high level and give fans some amazing fights. I feel great and I am going to make every day count.

“I miss everything about boxing: the competition, the contact, destroying someone. Seeing the shot; knowing where it is going to land; knowing that the timing is just perfect. I just love to fight and just be better than the person in front of me.

“Tagoe is a veteran, he is going to try his best to keep me off of him, to survive. His goal, I think, is to not get knocked out. I know he has been saying that facing me will be easy. But I can say one thing, my job is to not make his life easy in that ring. Fans should be ready to see me give this fight everything I got. If he can take a shot, it will be a good fight. If he can’t, he will be out of there very quick.

“This is going to be an exciting fight from me. You can expect timing and explosion. I don’t look to toss someone around for a couple of rounds. If I land a good one, you can expect that I am going to be looking to take someone out.”

EMMANUEL “THE GAMEBOY” TAGOE, LIGHTWEIGHT CONTENDER:

“I think I have the tools to knockout Ryan on Saturday. This fight is an opportunity for me to showcase myself.

“I came here to knock out Ryan Garcia. I think he’s good but he’s not my size. I can’t wait for Saturday. I’m going to show everyone.

“Training camp was good and I’m happy with this fight. Everyone is going to like this fight. I come to win with a knockout or no knockout. I waited for this opportunity. To all of Garcia’s fans watch out for Saturday.”

“KING” GABRIEL ROSADO, WBA CONTINENTAL AMERICAS SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPION:

“I’m excited to get back in the ring and do my thing. Yeah I got to be part of his father’s training camp when he went against margarito. But at the end of the day it’s business, we’re in the hurt business. This is what we do. We’re going to do our thing and I’m going for the knockout. It’s just perseverance. Not listening to what people have to say.”

SHANE MOSLEY JR, SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT CONTENDER:

“It’s great to have all these eyes on me. I’m happy to be on this card. Being the co-main event is great. Me and Ryan used to see each other in the amateurs. I can’t wait to get in the ring with Gave Rosado. I’m definitely going to show everyone what I’m made of. I’m really focused.”

MARLEN ESPARZA, WBC FLYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION:

“It’s amazing. Being like 3 hours from my home. I prepared like I usually do. I was already excited to get the ring with another champion. When it was brought to my attention that it was possible with the ring belt it really solidified what I’ve always wanted to do. I’m going to put on a show, it’s going to be a good night.”

NAOKO FUJIOKA, WBA FLYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION:

“I’m so excited for this fight. It doesn’t matter to me that I’m in her hometown. I wanted to get a bigger name. I am here to represent Japan.”

AZAT HOVHANNISYAN, FEATHERWEIGHT CONTENDER:

“Yes I was with Robert Garcia before. I learned a lot of good things from him. I feel good, I’m calm. I want to fight anyone at 122. I’m ready for any fighter.”




Rising Prospect Vito Mielnicki Jr. Returns To Action, Plus Cruiserweight Sluggers Adrian Taylor and Efetobor Apochi Duel, Highlighting Non-Televised Undercard Saturday, April 16 in Premier Boxing Champions Event from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas

ARLINGTON, TX. – April 6, 2022 – Rising prospect Vito Mielnicki Jr. will return to action in an eight-round super welterweight contest against Dan Karpency highlighting the non-televised undercard Saturday, April 16 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

The action will also include hard-hitting cruiserweights squaring off as Dallas-native Adrian Taylor takes on knockout artist Efetobor Apochi in an eight-round fight.

Tickets for the April 16 live event at AT&T Stadium, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Man Down Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at SeatGeek.com, the Official Ticketing Provider of AT&T Stadium.

The event is topped by WBC and IBF World Champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. and WBA World Champion Yordenis Ugas squaring off in a welterweight title unification clash live on SHOWTIME PPV at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. The pay-per-view lineup features exciting lightweight contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz taking on veteran former world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in the 10-round co-main event, unbeaten Jose Valenzuela battling former world champion Francisco “El Bandido” Vargas in a 10-round lightweight fight, plus unbeaten Cody Crowley facing veteran contender Josesito Lopez in a 10-round duel of all-action welterweights that kicks off the telecast.

Preceding the pay-per-view will be a special edition of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® headlined by WBA Welterweight Champion Radzhab Butaev and top contender Eimantas Stanionis. The telecast begins live at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and also features unbeaten rising star Brandun Lee taking on Zachary Ochoa in a super lightweight bout.

Rounding out the non-televised undercard is Mexico’s Fernando Garcia (13-4, 8 KOs) taking on exciting prospect Angel Barrientes (8-1, 6 KOs) in a six-round super bantamweight attraction, unbeaten middleweight Samuel Arnold (4-0, 2 KOs) dueling Darryl Jones (4-3-1, 2 KOs) in a four-round showdown and El Paso, Texas native Darius Gulghum (1-0, 1 KO) battling Nosa Nehikhare (5-1) for six rounds of cruiserweight action.

Representing Roseland, New Jersey, Mielnicki (10-1, 7 KOs) bounced back from a decision defeat in April 2021 to score stoppage victories over Noah Kidd and Nicholas DeLomba. His most recent fight saw Mielnicki go 10 rounds for the first time, as he earned a TKO over DeLomba in the final frame. The 19-year-old began turning heads during an exceptional amateur career where he compiled a 147-22 record and was named the Most Outstanding Boxer of the 2011 Junior National Golden Gloves, amongst many accolades before turning pro. He will be opposed by the 30-year-old Karpency (9-4-1, 4 KOs), who most recently lost to unbeaten prospect Xander Zayas. The Adah, Pennsylvania native is the younger brother of fellow pro fighters Tommy and Jeremiah Karpency.

A native of Dallas, Taylor (12-1-1, 5 KOs) has won five of his last six fights, with the only blemish coming in a September 2021 split-draw against Rafayel Simonyan. The 31-year-old won seven-straight fights after turning pro, before losing a four-round majority decision against Jerhed Fenderson in 2018. He takes on the 34-year-old Apochi (11-1, 11 KOs), who most recently lost a narrow-split decision to Brandon Glanton in June 2021 in one of the year’s most memorable shootouts. The Nigerian fighter turned pro in 2017 and scored knockouts in his first 11 fights.

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ABOUT SPENCE VS. UGAS
Spence vs. Ugas will see WBC and IBF world champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. and WBA world champion Yordenis Ugas square off in a welterweight title unification clash that headlines a SHOWTIME PPV on Saturday, April 16 from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features exciting lightweight contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz taking on veteran former world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in the 10-round co-main event.

The lineup also includes unbeaten Jose Valenzuela battling former world champion Francisco “El Bandido” Vargas in a 10-round lightweight fight, plus unbeaten Cody Crowley faces veteran contender Josesito Lopez in a 10-round duel of all-action welterweights that kicks off the telecast.

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




Super Welterweight Contender Jamontay Clark Faces Aaron Coley, Plus Philippine Olympian Eumir Marcial Returns To The Ring, Highlighting Non-Televised Undercard Lineup This Saturday,April 9 From Virgin Hotels Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS (April 6, 2022) – Super welterweight contender Jamontay Clark will duel Aaron Coley in an eight-round showdown highlighting the non-televised undercard this Saturday, April 9 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from the Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, part of Curio Collection by Hilton.

Also in action, 2020 Philippine Olympian Eumir Marcial returns to the ring to take on Isiah Hart in a four-round middleweight affair.

The event is headlined by a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader that will see top 154-pound contenders Erickson “Hammer” Lubin and Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora meet for the WBC Super Welterweight Interim Title in the main event. The action on SHOWTIME begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and also features former super welterweight world champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison taking on highly regarded contender Sergio Garcia in the 10-round co-main event, plus unbeaten super welterweight Kevin Salgado battling Bryant Perrella in the 10-round telecast opener

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.

The non-televised lineup also includes highly-touted Mayweather Promotions prospect Jalil Hackett (3-0, 2 KOs) squaring off against fellow unbeaten Jose Belloso (4-0, 4 KOs) in a six-round welterweight affair, and Mayweather Promotions’ super featherweight prospect Dorian Khan Jr. (1-0, 1 KO) competing in a four-round attraction against Mexico’s Arturo De Isla (2-1, 1 KO).

Rounding out the card is super bantamweight prospect Alberto Gonzalez (1-0) in a four-round fight against Daniel Alegre (1-0, 1 KO) and the pro debut of super bantamweight Xavier Bocanegra in a four-round bout taking on Jose Ramirez (1-1, 1 KO).

The 27-year-old Clark (15-2-1, 7 KOs) will return to the ring looking to bounce back from a March 2021 defeat against U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha. A native of Cincinnati, Ohio, Clark won his first 13 pro fights, including impressive victories over Ivan Golub and Domonique Dolton. Clark also owns a split-draw against unbeaten contender Sebastian Fundora in a 2019 action fight. He will be challenged by the Hayward, California native Coley (16-3-1, 7 KOs), who most recently lost a split-decision against Vladimir Hernandez in July 2020. Coley won six-straight fights after his first loss and overall has won seven of his last nine fights.

Fresh off his run to the semifinals representing the Philippines during the Olympic tournament in Tokyo, Marcial (1-0) steps back into action for his second pro fight on April 9. In addition to making the Olympics, Marcial had a decorated amateur career that included gold medal wins in the India Open, the Korotkov Memorial Tournament, the Ulaanbaatar Cup and the Southeast Asian Games. Prior to the Olympics, Marcial had a successful pro debut in December 2020, beating Andrew Whitfield by decision. He will take on the 30-year-old Hart (6-2-1, 4 KOs), who fights out of Mays Landing, New Jersey and went 1-1 in 2021, stopping Ernesto Cardona Sanchez before losing to Francis Hogan.

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ABOUT LUBIN VS. FUNDORA
Lubin vs. Fundora will see top super welterweight contenders Erickson “Hammer” Lubin and Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora square off for the WBC Super Welterweight Interim Title headlining action live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, April 9 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from the Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, part of Curio Collection by Hilton.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features former super welterweight world champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison taking on highly regarded contender Sergio Garcia in the 10-round co-main event, plus unbeaten super welterweight Kevin Salgado battling Bryant Perrella in the 10-round telecast opener.

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




April 30: Las Vegas Native Nico Ali Walsh Makes Hometown Debut on Oscar Valdez-Shakur Stevenson Bill LIVE on ESPN at MGM Grand Garden Arena

LAS VEGAS (April 6, 2022) — Las Vegas native Nico Ali Walsh, grandson of “The Greatest,” hopes to make a statement for the hometown fans. Ali Walsh will fight Denver’s Alejandro Ibarra in a four-round middleweight attraction Saturday, April 30, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.

Ali Walsh-Ibarra will open the televised broadcast featuring the world junior lightweight title unification showdown between WBC champion Oscar Valdez and WBO king Shakur Stevenson.
 
Valdez-Stevenson, an eight-round lightweight co-feature between U.S. Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis and Esteban Sanchez, and Ali Walsh-Ibarra will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Ali Walsh said, “Las Vegas is home, and the MGM Grand Garden Arena has hosted so many legendary fights. This is a dream come true. I’ve gotten to know Oscar and Shakur, and it’s an honor to fight on their card. I’m focused on my fight, as Ibarra is a capable veteran. He wants to be the guy to knock off Muhammad Ali’s grandson. I won’t let that happen, especially in front of my family and friends.”

Ali Walsh (4-0, 3 KOs) graduated from Las Vegas’ Bishop Gorman High School and is currently a student at UNLV, where he is on track to graduate later this month with a degree in business entrepreneurship. He turned pro last August with a headline-grabbing first-round knockout. Ali Walsh fought twice more in 2021, including a four-round decision over Reyes Sanchez at Madison Square Garden, the site of many of his grandfather’s most memorable ring battles. Ali Walsh last fought in January in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he knocked out Jeremiah Yaegar in two rounds. He now turns to Ibarra (7-1, 2 KOs), a 28-year-old who has won four straight since the lone loss on his ledger.
 
Promoted by Top Rank, tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting AXS.com.




Roy Jones, Jr.-trained Undefeated Swedish middleweight prospect Shady Gamhour Returns Apr. 29th to Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS (April 6, 2022) – Undefeated Swedish middleweight prospect Shady Gamhour (12-0, 9 KOs) returns to Las Vegas to fight there for the first time since 2018, April 29th on the “Sons of Legends” card, presented by Roy Jones Jr. (RJJ) Boxing in association with Ares Entertainment, in The Theater at Virgin Hotels in Las Vegas.

The main event is a 10-round match for the vacant WBC USNBC heavyweight title between Kenzie “TCB” Morrison (19-02,2, 17 KOs) and Hasim “Gold Blooded” Rahman (12-0, 6 KOs), respectively, the sons of past World Heavyweight Champions Tommy “The Duke” Morrison and Hasim Rahman.

The action will be called at ringside by Hall of Famer Roy Jones, Jr., James “Smitty” Smith and Kalvin “Hot Sauce” Henderson on FITE TV and iNDemand PPV.

Sweden-native Gamhour, who lives and trains with Roy Jones in Pensacola, Florida, is matched against Steven Pichardo (8-1-1, 2 KOs) in a 6-round bout.

“It feels awesome to fight again in Las Vegas,” Gamhour said. “It is a dream come true! It has been a blessing to have been able to be trained by the great Roy Jones, Jr. for the past five years.

“My training camp has been great, and we now have the most important weeks of training leading up to the fight in Las Vegas.”

Pichardo has won seven of his last eight fights with one draw.

“For me,” Jones commented, “it’s always fun to train Shady because he is one of the most dedicated people you ever want to see. There is nothing better in my opinion than a dedicated fighter. All fighters don’t have the same talent, all fighters don’t get to the same skill level drive and motivation is something that they can control. When you find a fighter with drive, control, and motivation like Shady, it makes you glad to spend time teaching them. Because of his drive and motivation, I’m very much looking forward to seeing Shady back in the ring. I can’t wait to see him fight.”

Also scheduled to fight are sons of other “boxing legends” such as Roberto “Hands of Stone” Duran, Mike “The Bounty” Hunter, Robert “Preacherman” Daniels, Gerald “G-Man” McClellan, and Steve “USS” Cunningham.

Card subject to change.

Tickets are available for purchase online at https://www.axs.com/events/429450/sons-of-legends-morrison-vs-rahman-jr-tickets.

INFORMATION:

Websites: http://www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com

Twitter: @RoyjonesJRfa @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @shadyboxing

Instagram: @RoyJonesJrBoxing

ABOUT ROY JONES JR, BOXING PROMOTIONS: Founded in 2013, Roy Jones, Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions has already made a huge impact in the boxing community in a few short years creating exhilarating content for UFC Fight Pass, CBS Sports, Showtime, ESPN and beIN Sports in some of the finest venues across the country and also in Mexico, Russia, and Japan. RJJ Boxing has proven it is conquering the sweet science of the sport.




TICKETS GO ON SALE TOMORROW AND PRE-SALE TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW FOR BIG-TIME BOXING’S RETURN TO BARCLAYS CENTER IN BROOKLYN WITH GERVONTA DAVIS VS. ROLANDO ROMERO SHOWDOWN SATURDAY, MAY 28

BROOKLYN – April 6, 2022 – Tickets will go on sale tomorrow for big-time boxing’s return to Barclays Center in Brooklyn as five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis, boxing’s hottest young attraction, defends his title against unbeaten No. 1-ranked contender and mandatory challenger Rolando Romero Saturday, May 28 headlining a SHOWTIME PPV in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, go on sale Thursday, April 7 at 10 a.m. ET and can be purchased online at seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets will also be available for purchase at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center beginning Thursday, April 7 at 12 p.m. ET.

Pre-sale tickets are available NOW through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com with the code: BROOKLYN

A three-division world champion, Davis returns to Barclays Center where he delivered a star-making performance in 2017 as he thrilled the Brooklyn crowd by stopping Jose Pedraza to capture his first world title. The Baltimore native also owns a 2018 TKO win over Jesus Cuellar at Barclays Center that saw Davis win his second world title. Now, in his third appearance at the arena, Davis will headline in Brooklyn for the first time.

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #DavisRomero, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing , @MayweatherPromo, and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromotions and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions/.




GIYASOV AND GOMEZ CLASH ON CANELO-BIVOL UNDERCARD

Shakhram Giyasov and Christian Gomez will clash for the IBF North American Welterweight title on the undercard of Canelo Alvarez vs. Dmitry Bivol at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on Saturday May 7, live on DAZN, excluding Latin America and Mexico. In the U.S. & Canada, the event will be offered exclusively on DAZN Pay-Per View (PPV).
 TICKETS FOR MAY 7 ARE ON SALE NOW! – CLICK HERE FOR FULL DETAILS
 
Giyasov (12-0 9 KOs) moves up to Welterweight for the bout and will be aiming to make an instant impact. The 28 year old was handily ranked at #7 with the WBA and #10 with the IBF at 140lbs, but made his first steps at eyeing up the 147lbs division with a catchweight win over ten rounds in his Uzbek homeland in December. Previously, ‘Wonder Boy’ gained his lofty seedings with the governing bodies with explosive performances, landing the WBA International title at Super-Lightweight back in April 2019 and dispatching former World champion Darleys Perez inside one round and Patricio Moreno in three rounds last April.
 
The Uzbek star faces a real examination of his credentials at 147lbs in the shape of the dangerous Gomez (22-2-1 20 KOs), the big-hitting Mexican that will be aiming to use Canelo’s fans to roar him to victory. Gomez, also 28 years old, has been hunting a breakout fight and has landed it on Cinco De Mayo weekend in no small part thanks to an eye-catching KO streak stretching back six fights to August 2019, with two of those wins coming on Canelo cards in Texas.
 
With 29 of their 34 shared victories in the ring coming inside the distance, fans can expect a thrilling battle between the pair, and there is extra spice with both men being connected to the blockbuster main event, with Gomez part of the Clase Y Talento team masterminded by Canelo’s trainer and manager Eddy Reynoso, and Giyasov training alongside Bivol in California.
 
“I am honored to be part of this event,” said Giyasov. “For me, both Canelo and Bivol are legendary champions, but I believe in Bivol’s victory, we are on the same team, and we train together.
 
“This is a new chapter in my career as it will be my first fight in the Welterweight division, and I hope to perform at my best for all my fans!”
 
“My fight this upcoming May 7 we have a tough opponent but we’re preparing and training very hard,” said Gomez. “We’re coming with everything. Thank you to those that always support me. We’re coming for the win, God willing”
 
“This is an excellent addition to what promises to be a thrilling night of action in Las Vegas,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “Shakhram is looking to make noise at Welterweight, but with the Mexican fans behind him, Christian is going to be a huge threat to ‘Wonder Boy’s’ plans – don’t blink watching this one, as both men carry big power and can end this one in an instant.”
 
Giyasov and Gomez clash on a huge night of action, topped by Canelo Alvarez looking to become a two-time Light-Heavyweight champion by taking Dmitry Bivol’s WBA belt.
 
Rising Super-Lightweight talent Montana Love meets Gabriel Valenzuela in a mouth-watering battle at 140lbs, while unbeaten Heavyweight’s Filip Hrgovic and Zhilei Zhang meet in a final eliminator for the mandatory spot for the IBF crown.



World Cup Boxing Series Announces “Junior Tournament” for Young Boxers

LOS ANGELES (April 5, 2022) — World Cup Boxing Series (WCBS), co-founded by CEO Terry Hollan and matchmaker Guy Taylor, has announced a new series, “WCBS Junior Tournament,” to go along with its ongoing “WCBS 4-Man Tournament.”

The “WCBS Junior Tournament” is designed for professional fighters under the age of 24 with records within the 9-0-to-11-0 range of experience.

“When our company announced the tournament platform, we had 271 fighters, managers and promoters reach out to us about getting in on one of the brackets,” Taylor said. “I’d say 90-percent were good, young fighters who had records of 9-0, 10-0, etc. Our ‘Junior Tournament’ will provide a great opportunity for young prospects looking to break into the role of young contenders.”

The “WCBS Junior Tournament” will use the same format as the “WCBS 4-Man Tournament” – four fighters in 8-round semifinals with the winners advancing to the 8-round championship final, unlike the 10-round “4-Man Tournament” final.

“The reason we decided to go with 8-rounds for both the semifinals and final is that most of these fighters in the ‘Junior Tournament’ have never gone 8 rounds before,’ Taylor explained. “We just feel that fir them to be effective in their development and progression in the sport and, more importantly, their safety, we will keep both the semifinals and final at 8-rounds.”

The “WCBS Junior Tournament” will also adopt one ‘Overtime round” in the event the any series bout is declared a draw after the scheduled distance is completed.

The North American Boxing Federation (NABF) will be the exclusive sanctioning body for the “WCBS Junior Tournament” with the winner being crowned the new JUNIOR NABF Champion.

“The NABF is excited to support this tournament,” NABF President Duane Ford commented. “This is what our ‘JUNIOR NABF’ title is all about and that’s giving young talent the opportunity to prove themselves.”

“WCBS is honored to have the NABF sanctioning our ‘Junior Tournament’,” Hollan noted. “Not only does it give our tournament credibility, but it also gives these young fighters something to strive for.”

“NABF Championships is one of the most sought-after regional titles in boxing,” Taylor added. “It provides a pathway for many fighters to not only break into the World Boxing Council (WBC) world rankings but positions them for world title opportunities. This is all part of the process.”

The “WCBS Junior Tournament” semifinals are scheduled for June 3rd with the championship final on September 16th.

INFORMATION:

Facebook: /WorldCupBoxingSeries

Instagram: @World_Cup_Boxing_Series




World Champion Eleider Alvarez returning to ring as a cruiserweight

MONTREAL (April 5, 2022) – Groupe Yvon Michel (GYM) held a virtual press conference this morning in Montreal to announce the next installment of its popular “Boxing Series,” co-promoted by GYM and Probellum, presented by Mise-O-Jeu, on Thursday evening, May 5th, at the Cabaret of Montréal Casino.

Former world light heavyweight champion Eleider “Storm” Alvarez (25-2, 13 KOs) will return to the ring for the first time in nearly two years but this time as a cruiserweight. He will fight in an 8-round bout against an opponent to be announced this week.

Top Canadian super lightweight prospects, undefeated Mazlum Akdeniz (16-0, 8 KOs) and Mathieu “G-Time” Germain (20-2-1, 9 KOs), will also showcase their considerable talents in 10-round matches. The three boxers, although at different levels in their careers, all have the ambition to join the top 10 contenders in their division before the end of 2022.

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Alvarez hasn’t fought in nearly two years, since he lost to current WBO World Light Heavyweight Champion Joe Smith, Jr., and the Colombia-native is taking his explosiveness and power up to the cruiserweight division for the first time. “I’m coming back to boxing to prove to myself that I still have great years to come and titles to conquer at cruiserweights,” Alvarez declared.

A 2008 Olympian, Alvarez will be fighting in his adopted home of Montreal for the first time in nearly five years. The highlight of his professional career to date was a stunning seventh-round stoppage of Sergey Kovalev, who was dropped three times by Alvarez, to capture the WBO World Light Heavyweight title nearly four years ago.

Alvarez has also defeated two other world champions, Jean Pascal and Lucian Bute.

Promoter Yvon Michel is very proud of his progress: “Eleider has only two career losses, against ex-champion Sergei Kovalev who he knocked out beforehand and against the current WBO light heavyweight champion Joe Smith Jr. His talent is undeniable and with his new team he is more motivated than ever to get back to the top.”

The young veteran Mathieu Germain showed a lot of resources and determination overcoming the consequences of covid and a cut in the right eye to knock out his opponent Erick Angulo on March 11 in the 8th and last round. “I had never suffered cuts in my career, but it didn’t really bother me. The important thing is that my many supporters had quite a show that evening and I intend to impress them again on May 5th,” added the sympathetic athlete.

The popular Mazlum Akdeniz will fight his third fight since last December and he asks for more: “I am ready to fight every month if I am given the chance. May 5th will be Cinco de Mayo, the Mexican holiday, and I intend to fight like a Mexican and raise my supporters who will be numerous at the Casino,” the charismatic competitor said.

Tickets go on sale Wednesday at noon at ticketmaster.com or for group at info@groupeyvonmichel.ca

GroupeYM

Source: Groupe Yvon Michel

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, all still active within the company, which is the most prolific organization in the history of professional boxing in Canada. Since its founding GYM has organized 162 events in Quebec, participated in 37 international galas outside of Quebec. Seven boxers became world champions: Joachim Alcine, Jean Pascal, Adonis Stevenson, Artur Beterbiev, Eleider Alvarez, Marie-Eve Dicaire and Oscar Rivas. Seventeen of the organization’s boxers have fought in 51 world championship bouts with an excellent record of 25 wins, 22 losses and 2 draws. During this period major American television networks were more active than ever in coming to Quebec to broadcast GYM’s most important events. On 36 occasions major American networks presented a GYM event, an exceptional showcase of Quebec knowledge including HBO (8), Showtime (7), ESPN2 (10), Wealth TV (4), Spike TV (2), ESPN (2), CBS (1) and NBC Sports (1).




APRIL 23: FURY-WHYTE UNDERCARD REVEALED AS CAPACITY INCREASE CONFIRMED FOR WEMBLEY STADIUM SUPER FIGHT

LONDON (April 5, 2022) — The undercard for Tyson Fury’s WBC/Lineal/Ring Magazine Heavyweight Championship of the World collision with challenger Dillian Whyte on Saturday, April 23 is now in place, headed up by a return to the ring for the British junior lightweight champion, Anthony “The Apache” Cacace.

Additionally, it has been confirmed that 4,000 additional tickets now set to go on sale tomorrow making Fury-Whyte the record-breaking sporting event to be held at Wembley Stadium connected by EE.

Cacace (19-1, 7 KOs) is back in action making a successful first defense of his title against Lyon Woodstock in August of last year. The Belfast native will fight for the vacant WBO International title in a 10-rounder against Colombia native Jonathan Romero (34-1, 19 KOs), a former IBF junior featherweight world champion.

In a 10-round supporting fight where fireworks are guaranteed, the vacant WBC Silver featherweight title will be on the line when Tyson Fury comrade Isaac Lowe (23-1-3, 6 KOs) takes on undefeated Liverpool native Nick Ball (14-0, 7 KOs).

The winner of this prestigious belt will be catapulted into the WBC world rankings.

Ladbroke Grove heavyweight David Adeleye (8-0, 7 KOs) will clock up his ninth fight and his second eight-rounder as a professional against Stockport’s Chris Healey as he closes in on title contention.

The unbeaten Tommy Fury (7-0, 4 KOs) will continue his light heavyweight journey over six rounds against Polish veteran Daniel Bocianski (10-1, 2 KOs).

Live pay-per-view coverage in the United States will begin at 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT.

Before the pay-per-view telecast begins, Top-Rank signed Irish Olympian Kurt Walker (1-0, 1 KO) will compete in a four-round featherweight bout against an opponent to be named.

Frank Warren, who is promoting the show in association with Bob Arum’s Top Rank, said: “I am delighted to finally be able to reveal what will be a competitive undercard in support of the big one that we have all been waiting for.

“I genuinely believe that as soon as Anthony Cacace gathers some momentum in his career, he has got what it takes to win a world title and securing the WBO International belt will put him firmly on track. But he is up against a dangerous and experienced opponent in Jonathan Romero and will need to be at his very best on the night.

“I am so looking forward to seeing our man Nick Ball get the chance to really announce himself on the big stage against Tyson’s sidekick, Isaac Lowe, and it should be a cracking fight. The WBC Silver title on the line will propel the winner right into the world mix at featherweight.

“Big David Adeleye, a regular sparring partner for Tyson, will add the heavyweight theme of the night and will relish the big stage.

“I am delighted that Tommy Fury will get to share some of the spotlight with his big brother after missing out on his big fight last year through illness. If Tommy keeps on winning and continues to shine, his big opportunities will soon follow.

“I would also like to welcome Kurt Walker, the Irish Olympian signed to Top Rank, onto the card.”

WEMBLEY CAPACITY INCREASE FOR TYSON’S BIG NIGHT

Fury-Whyte will now be witnessed in person by 94,000 fans following the granting of an additional 4,000 tickets by the local authority.

Brent Council has now approved a further 4,000 tickets to be available as coach packages which go on sale at noon on Wednesday, April 6, exclusively from Ticketmaster.

The 90,000 would have already been a record attendance for boxing but, such was the demand, Queensberry and Top Rank, along with our hosts Wembley Stadium, sought permission from Brent Council to increase capacity to the biggest seen at a sports event at the national stadium since it was rebuilt in 2007.

An original 85,000 tickets were snapped up in a matter of three hours after going on sale, followed a week later by the initial additional 5,000 tickets also sold in conjunction with coach travel.

Warren said, “I am delighted we are now able to provide four thousand extra tickets for fans to watch the biggest boxing event staged in this country. I know this in no way gets near to meeting the huge demand, but we were determined to have as many fans as possible attend Tyson Fury’s big homecoming fight.

“I would like to extend my thanks to Brent Council for making this possible, along with our event partners at Wembley Stadium, and on April 23 Wembley and the borough of Brent will be beamed across the world.”




SEBASTIÁN FUNDORA TRAINING CAMP QUOTES

COACHELLA, CALIF. (April 5, 2022) – Unbeaten 154-pound contender Sebastián “The Towering Inferno” Fundora talks about reaching his peak as a fighter heading into his anticipated clash against Erickson “Hammer” Lubin as the two rising stars meet for the Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title headlining live on SHOWTIME Saturday, April 9 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from the Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, part of Curio Collection by Hilton.

In discussing his most recent victory, a decision over previously unbeaten Sergio Garcia in December, Fundora declared that he’s continued to improve since scoring that first 12-round victory of his young career.

“I learned against Garcia that I’m in great condition and that I can go into deep waters,” said Fundora. “I feel like I’ve improved a lot during this camp. It’s really everything. My boxing, my strength, my running and my overall conditioning is at a higher level. Everything is just peaking for me heading into this fight.”

Despite a colossal standing at over six-foot-six, Fundora has historically had no problems making the 154 pound limit, and stated that he’s actually been able to eat even more during this preparation.

“I’m eating a lot more this training camp,” said Fundora. “It’s not like I’m eating McDonalds every day, but I can eat what I want. We’ve been eating a lot of protein. I feel like I’m bulking but the weight isn’t there. I feel strong.”

After garnering attention for his eye-catching height early in his pro career, the 24-year-old Fundora faced a steadily improving string of opponents in his development leading up to this interim title opportunity. After taking on a Mexican slugger in Jorge Cota and an unbeaten European contender in Garcia during 2021, Fundora considers this opportunity against Lubin to have come at the right time in his career.

“It feels great to be in this position, but it’s part of the plan,” said Fundora. “We’re just going through with it. I’ve got racehorse vision and I’m making sure that I’ll get the job done. Being in this fight shows that I’m maturing. I first fought with PBC when I was 19-years-old and I’m a much different fighter since then.”

On April 9, Fundora steps up once again to face the 26-year-old Lubin, who is currently riding a six-fight winning streak. Lubin will seek to earn a second world title opportunity after losing to Jermell Charlo in 2017, while Fundora hopes to show his own championship-mettle against quality competition.

“We know Lubin is a southpaw and that he’s ranked number one by the WBC,” said Fundora. “He’s a good fighter overall. I expect him to come in and box, but I’m really just focused on doing what I do best.”

Known for his action style, Fundora promised to live up to his nickname and deliver heat when he steps into the ring on April 9.

“Fans can expect me to bring action against Erickson Lubin,” said Fundora. “’The Towering Inferno’ is bringing the fire on fight night.”

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

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ABOUT LUBIN VS. FUNDORA
Lubin vs. Fundora will see top super welterweight contenders Erickson “Hammer” Lubin and Sebastián “The Towering Inferno” Fundora square off for the WBC Super Welterweight Interim Title headlining action live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, April 9 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from the Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, part of Curio Collection by Hilton.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features former super welterweight world champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison taking on highly regarded contender Sergio Garcia in the 10-round co-main event, plus unbeaten super welterweight Kevin Salgado battling Bryant Perrella in the 10-round telecast opener.

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




EMMANUEL TAGOE PLOTS RYAN GARCIA UPSET AFTER SIGNING CO-PROMOTION DEAL WITH PROBELLUM  

LOS ANGELES, APRIL 5 – Ghanian boxer Emmanuel Tagoe has signed a co-promotional deal with Probellum and DiBella Entertainment – and he is ready to cause a major upset.

Tagoe heads to Texas on Saturday night to face the returning Ryan Garcia, one of the unbeaten stars of a lightweight division brimming with talent.

A former IBO title holder, Tagoe will start as an underdog but ‘The Gameboy’ – widely considered one of the top 10 fighters at 135lbs – cares little about the odds and the man from the proud boxing city of Accra is in a “dangerous” mood.

Garcia is being groomed as the heir to the lightweight throne, but Tagoe is refusing to kneel to ‘King Ry’.

“Nobody is expecting me to win this fight but mark my words; there is an upset on the cards in San Antonio this weekend,” declared Emmanuel Tagoe (32-1, 15KO).

“I respect Garcia’s ability but he’s accepted a challenge against one of the best fighters in the 135lbs division and, let me tell you, it’s a whole different ball game at this level.

“Saturday night will mark the second stage of my career and with the backing of Probellum and DiBella Entertainment, I am determined to show the world what Ghanian fighters are all about.”

Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum, said: “History has shown that Ghana produces world class boxers and Emmanuel Tagoe will remind everyone of that fact in Texas this weekend.

“For Probellum to be able to co-promote Emmanuel and help him reaffirm his position as a flag bearer for boxing in his homeland, is as real honour for our company.

“He is in a brilliant fight with Ryan Garcia and we believe that Tagoe will shock the world on Saturday night.”

“Emmanuel Tagoe is one of the top?boxing talents from Ghana and is on a 32-fight winning?streak,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment.

“He is hungry,?determined and dangerous as he enters the biggest fight of his life against Ryan Garcia.

“The attention that Probellum is paying to the Ghanaian boxing scene makes them a natural co-promoter for Emmanuel as his career progresses through Garcia and beyond.”

Probellum, the fastest growing brand in the sport, has agreed a promotional partnership with Box Office Sports Promotions in Ghana and signed one of the hottest prospects in the country, the unbeaten Alfred Lamptey.

To keep up to date with all of the news from Probellum’s world class stable of fighters, sign up to the Probellum?newsletter?or follow Probellum on?Instagram,?Twitter?and?Facebook

About Probellum???
Launched in September 2021, Probellum is a global boxing promotion and media company, and the fastest-growing brand in the sport.

Probellum’s elite stable of international fighters includes Nonito Donaire, Regis Prograis, Estelle Mossely, Sunny Edwards, Lee McGregor, Donnie Nietes, Dina Thorslund and Muhammad Waseem.

But the company has also recruited the next generation of stars with Peter McGrail, Mark Dickinson and Pat and Luke McCormack and Shabaz Masoud among the young talents under the Probellum umbrella.

Since launching, Probellum has also 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).?




FORMER PENNSYLVANIA GOLDEN GLOVES CHAMPION KARL WYLIE MAKES HIS DEBUT AT PARX CASINO® ON FRIDAY, MAY 13

?Karl Wylie, a lightweight fighter from Coatesville, PA, and a former Golden Gloves winner, will be making his professional boxing debut at Parx Casino® on Friday, May 13.

“Boxing is the only thing I could get up and do every day and not complain about and it’s terrible because of what you put your body through,” said Wylie. “I could do this and not complain about it.”

With a passion for boxing and the competitiveness that comes with it, the road to get in the ring was not easy for Wylie. There are no gyms in Coatesville, and he had to travel 45 minutes to an hour to Reading, Lancaster or Phoenixville just to train.

He had success at the 2014 Golden Gloves, making it to the national tournament. He wanted to go pro, but the problems kept coming up. He had terrible luck with his car breaking down, and that really hindered him from going to the gym every day. He knows how important consistency is because without it, he would just become an average fighter.

He never let himself get out of shape as he would always be hitting the pavement running and getting in those miles. During those runs, he felt the support from his friends and family. When running, he was sure to get 5-10 people giving him supportive beeps of their horn. Boxing is a lonely sport, but the support from his family and friends is what kept him going and keeps him still working to make his professional debut, even after a five-year gap between fights.

ADDITIONAL Q&A with KARL WYLIE:

How does it feel to make your debut close to home?

“It’s exciting and bittersweet because my first amateur fight was actually in my city of Coatesville. The energy and the atmosphere was ridiculous. I burnt out like halfway through the fight because I was fighting so much off energy and adrenaline. I wasn’t breathing and when I finally stopped to take a deep breath, I didn’t think I was going to make it. But that was a long time ago, and I’m anxious, and everybody is really excited, and it’s going to be amazing.”

What are your hopes and dreams for your future in fighting?

“Just be able to achieve greatness starting out at 29. I could have started sooner, but life has its obstacles so it’s not likely for me to come in at 29 and dominate like Floyd Mayweather for 20 years, but just to be mentioned with some of the greats and to be compared to them.”

The live boxing event, which is produced by Joe Hand Promotions, will feature a six-round heavyweight bout between Sonny Conto (9-0, 7 KOs) out of Philadelphia, PA, going up against Justin Rolfe (7-3-1, 5 KOs) fighting out of Fairfield, ME.

2021 Briscoe “Prospect of the year” Shinard Bunch (18-1-1, 15 KOs) out of Trenton, NJ will look to continue his 18 fight undefeated streak when he competes in an eight-round super lightweight fight.

Super featherweight Jordon Murphy (2-0, 1 KO), originally from Bensalem, PA, and now residing in Deerfield Beach, FL, will be returning to Philadelphia to fight in front of his family and friends in a four-round super featherweight bout.

The always entertaining Christopher Burgos (3-5-1, 1 KO) of North Philadelphia, PA, will face Philip Davis (2-5-1) of Worcester, MA, in a six-round lightweight contest.




SUCCESSFUL WEEKEND FOR DIBELLA QUINTET

New York, NY (April 5, 2022) – On the heels of the major announcement that George Kambosos Jr. and Devin Haney will meet in a unification showdown for the undisputed lightweight world championship later this year, DiBella Entertainment’s roster picked up five wins this past weekend across the globe.

On Friday, April 1, Irish light heavyweight prospect and 2016 Olympian “Mighty” Joe Ward, of Westmeath, Ireland, earned a fifth-round stoppage victory against Oscar Riojas at the Dome in Rosemont, IL. Now 7-1 (4 KOs), the southpaw Ward, who is co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Probellum, applied pressure from the outset, closing the gap to unleash powerful flurries, often punctuated by right hooks to the body. In round five, a jab-straight left combination badly hurt Riojas and a follow-up attack from Ward against the ropes forced the stoppage at the 1:38 mark.

Also on Friday, featherweight Misael Lopez, of Denver, CO, earned an eight-round unanimous decision against Elijah Uribes, at Stampede, in Aurora, CO. Using deft footwork, fast hands and a stiff jab, Lopez outboxed Uribes every round then picked up the pace over the final six minutes intent on finishing strong. Scorecards read 79-73, and 78-74 twice, all for Lopez, now 13-1 (5 KOs).

Williams-Luckey Photo Credit: Emily Harney
On Saturday, rising super lightweight contender “Marvelous” Mykquan Williams, of East Hartford, CT, earned an impressive win against Tyrone Luckey in front of his hometown fans at the Connecticut Convention Center, in Hartford, CT. Williams used a consistent body attack to break his opponent down en route to a fifth-round stoppage, as Luckey did not come out of his corner for round six. Managed by Jackie Kallen, the 23-year-old Williams is now 17-0-1 (8 KOs).

Six-foot-five Russian heavyweight prospect Vladimir Ivanov remained undefeated with a second-round knockout victory against Pavel Doroshilov in Moscow. Backing Doroshilov toward the ropes, Ivanov landed a left uppercut to the midsection to drop his foe for the full count. Co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Groupe Yvon Michel, Ivanov improved to 7-0 (6 KOs). He began boxing at age 13 and accumulated an amateur record of 219-63. Ivanov was an eight-time gold medalist of the North-West Federal District tournament, the first Russian to win gold at the Bundesliga German Club Cup in 2015, and a gold medalist at the World Team Cup, RFSO Lokomotiv Voluntary Sports Society and Silver Gloves tournaments in 2018.

Following wins against Maricela Cornejo and Kandi Wyatt last year, Mexican welterweight contender Alma Ibarra made her ring return on Saturday against Laura Cubos in La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico. Ibarra came out aggressively to start the bout, applying pressure to cut off the ring and throw jab-straight right combinations. In round two, a fierce overhand left landed on Cubos’ right arm. Due to her damaged right biceps, Cubos elected not to continue at the sound of the bell for round three. Rated #1 by the WBC, WBA and IBF, Ibarra upped her record to 10-1 (5 KOs) with the third-round TKO win.

Looking ahead, a trio of DiBella Entertainment fighters see action this weekend. On Friday, April 8, Dominican super bantamweight knockout artist Jonathan “Salomon King” Guzman (24-2, 23 KOs) fights at home in Santo Domingo for the first time since 2014 against Starling Martinez. On Saturday, April 9, Italy’s IBO super featherweight world champion Michael “Lone Wolf” Magnesi (20-0, 12 KOs), co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Star Boxing, makes the second defense of his belt, at home in Rome, against Mexican Dennis Contreras, and Ghanaian Emmanuel “The Gameboy” Tagoe (32-1, 15 KOs) battles Ryan Garcia at the Alamodome in San Antonio, TX, live on DAZN.




SAM MAXWELL LANDS IBO WORLD TITLE SHOT AT PROBELLUM LIVERPOOL EVENT   

LIVERPOOL, APRIL 5 – Sam Maxwell hopes to walk in the footsteps of Manny Pacquiao and Ricky Hatton by winning the IBO super-lightweight world title later this month.

The 33-year-old faces Alejandro Meneses at Probellum Liverpool on April 22 on a massive night of world championship boxing in one of Britain’s boxing hotbeds.

Maxwell’s crack at the IBO belt will act as chief support to the main event which sees local hero Paul Butler challenge WBO bantamweight champion John Riel Casimero, at the M&S Bank Arena.

The unbeaten Maxwell, a Commonwealth Games bronze medallist in the amateurs, stayed up into the early hours of the morning to watch Pacquiao and Hatton’s 2009 mega fight in Las Vegas, when the IBO crown was on the line.

Maxwell, nicknamed ‘Super Sam’, finds it surreal that he will now be competing for that same title later this month in front of a packed arena in Liverpool.

“My career has been building to this moment,” said the 16-0 Sam Maxwell.

“I won the WBO European title, then British and the Commonwealth belts and how I have this huge fight for the IBO world title.

“I feel lucky to be handed this opportunity and I will make the most of it.

“Ricky Hatton and Manny Pacquiao have held the title so it’s a belt with a lot of history.

“I watched those Hatton and Pacquiao fights, including when they fought each other, and so it is absolutely crazy to think I will now be fighting for that title.”

‘A LIFE CHANGING MOMENT’ – read our full interview with Sam Maxwell here

Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum said: “The 140lbs division is on fire now and by winning the IBO world title, Sam can put himself in the frame for some career-defining fights.

“The world of boxing is expecting Josh Taylor to vacate his belts and move up to 147lbs and, as Sam says, that would create massive opportunities in the division for many fighters, including Maxwell.

“Probellum is thrilled to be able to deliver this fight for Sam and put it on a brilliant card in Liverpool later this month. We can’t wait for our first event in one of the UK’s biggest fight cities.”

Probellum, the fastest growing brand in the sport, have signed some of world boxing’s leading fighters in the 140lbs division, since launching in September last year.

Jack Catterall, the People’s Champion, signed for Probellum in March and joined Regis Prograis, who has become the mandatory challenger for the WBC title, following a win over Tyrone McKenna in Dubai.

Lewis Ritson kept his world title aspirations alive with a win over Dejan Zlaticanin in Newcastle last month and is on a collision course with the world ranked Ohara Davies, while former world champion Ricky Burns is part of the Probellum stable and made his comeback in December.

To keep up to date with all of the news from Probellum’s world class stable of 140lbs fighters, sign up to the Probellum?newsletter?or follow Probellum on?Instagram,?Twitter?and?Facebook?

About Probellum???
Launched in September 2021, Probellum is a global boxing promotion and media company, and the fastest-growing brand in the sport.

Probellum’s elite stable of international fighters includes Nonito Donaire, Regis Prograis, Estelle Mossely, Sunny Edwards, Lee McGregor, Donnie Nietes, Dina Thorslund and Muhammad Waseem.

But the company has also recruited the next generation of stars with Peter McGrail, Mark Dickinson and Pat and Luke McCormack and Shabaz Masoud among the young talents under the Probellum umbrella.

Since launching, Probellum has also 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).?




FELIX “TITO” TRINIDAD AND YORDENIS UGAS VIRTUAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

ARLINGTON, TX. (April 4, 2022) – Boxing legend Felix “Tito” Trinidad joined WBA Welterweight World Champion Yordenis Ugas for a virtual press conference Monday as the fighters discussed their journeys to boxing glory and previewed Ugas’ upcoming welterweight championship unification clash against WBC and IBF champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. taking place Saturday, April 16 live on SHOWTIME PPV from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The virtual conversation was hosted by SHOWTIME Boxing analyst and former world champion Raúl “El Diamante” Márquez.

Tickets for the April 16 live event at AT&T Stadium, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Man Down Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at SeatGeek.com, the Official Ticketing Provider of AT&T Stadium.

Just the 12th unification fight in the rich history of the welterweight division, Spence vs. Ugas will join other classic unification matchups at the weight class such as “Sugar” Ray Leonard vs. Thomas Hearns I and Floyd Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquiao. Ugas will look to join Trinidad on the list of unified welterweight champions, as Trinidad unified 147-pound belts in a 1999 victory over Oscar De La Hoya.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Monday:

YORDENIS UGAS

“I remember watching Felix when I was a teenager and he fought against De La Hoya. Everyone in Cuba was talking about that one. That fight really blew my mind. It was amazing to watch Felix go toe-to-toe with Oscar. To see Felix achieve something so incredible was a great inspiration.

“Ismael Salas is one of the best trainers in the world. When I was out of the sport for over two years, I went to the gym with him and he built me back up to where I am now. He’s been a great influence in my boxing career and he’s helped me reach the heights I’ve been able to achieve.

“I love my country, but I am also always asking for a free Cuba, because I want a better future for the country that I represent and love with all of my heart.

“I did my job against Manny Pacquiao. I took the fight on 11 days’ notice. Whatever Spence said about what he would have done against Pacquao, I’m not concerned. I’m only focused on the challenge that I have against Spence.

“I had to leave Cuba on a speedboat, never knowing if I’d see my family again. I didn’t see them for almost a decade. I had to overcome everything alone. Not only professionally, but personally I had a lot to overcome.

“I’m a competitor, I would have put my best foot forward in any decade. I would have loved to fight Trinidad and the other fighters of his era. I could have won, I could have lost, but I would have loved to face those challenges.

“This is such a dream come true to be here talking with one of my idols in Felix Trinidad. It’s truly amazing. I’m very thankful to be in this position.”

FELIX “TITO” TRINIDAD, 2014 International Boxing Hall of Fame Inductee

“When I watched the Manny Pacquiao fight, I watched Ugas represent Cuba in an amazing way. I believe that Ugas can emulate what he did against Pacquiao in the fight against Spence. His speed and precision is going to wow the crowd in this fight.

“This is going to be a fight of a champion against a champion. When I fought De La Hoya, I knew that I had to go all out and couldn’t leave anything in the tank. I believe in Ugas and I believe he’s going to make us all proud.

“Errol is a rangy, tall southpaw. Instead of trying to go up against their right hand, I wanted to let a southpaw throw their biggest shot and dodge it, so that I could deliver my most powerful shot. I’d tell Ugas to let Spence throw that left hand and dodge it.

“I was fortunate as a Puerto Rican and a U.S. citizen where I could always feel the support of my family throughout my career. I had a very close circle of trust and that helped me greatly.

“Ugas’ best attributes are the ones that are most similar to mine. It’s the conditioning and the mentality. He brings what he works on in training and uses it in the fight so well. He brings that preparation into the ring just like I used to. It makes me believe in him and I know that he’s going to do well.

“I would tell Ugas to stay close and be on offense. Don’t let Spence come to you instead. The jab with the right and uppercut with the left is the best combination that will work for you.

“I had a wonderful career with so many memorable experiences and great fights. Now I’m concentrating on my family and this is a chapter I’ve been treasuring a lot. I’m very happy with the life that I’m living now.”

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ABOUT SPENCE VS. UGAS
Spence vs. Ugas will see WBC and IBF world champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. and WBA world champion Yordenis Ugas square off in a welterweight title unification clash that headlines a SHOWTIME PPV on Saturday, April 16 from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features exciting lightweight contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz taking on veteran former world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in the 10-round co-main event.

The lineup also includes unbeaten Jose Valenzuela battling former world champion Francisco “El Bandido” Vargas in a 10-round lightweight fight, plus unbeaten Cody Crowley faces veteran contender Josesito Lopez in a 10-round duel of all-action welterweights that kicks off the telecast.

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