Kambosos and Haney Battle for It All, June 4, Live on ESPN

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MELBOURNE, Australia (March 31, 2022) — The Emperor, and his new belts, are coming home.

Australia’s “Ferocious” George Kambosos Jr., the WBO/WBA/IBF/WBC Franchise/Ring Magazine lightweight world champion, will battle WBC world champion Devin “The Dream” Haney for Melbourne Supremacy and the undisputed championship Saturday, June 4, at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne, Australia. Kambosos-Haney will be broadcast in prime time, live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+.

Kambosos, who was born and raised in Sydney, returns to the friendly Down Under confines for the most significant boxing match in Australian history. Event organizers hope to break the Australian attendance record of 51,026 set by the 2017 Manny Pacquiao vs. Jeff Horn super fight in Brisbane. Kambosos is of Greek descent, and Melbourne has the world’s largest Greek population outside of Greece.

Promoted by DiBella Entertainment, Ferocious Promotions, Top Rank, Devin Haney Promotions, Duco Events and TEG Sport, undercard bouts and ticketing details will be announced shortly. Devin Haney Promotions recently entered into a multi-fight co-promotional pact with DiBella Entertainment and Top Rank.

Kambosos said, “After five years of chasing championship glory abroad and fighting in enemy territory, I return home to defend what I have conquered in the boxing world, my world lightweight titles. Everything I have put my mind to and manifested has come true with my relentless hard work, dedication and discipline to the sport I love. I have always said I would become world champion the hard way, fighting abroad and then bring back a mega stadium fight to make my world title defense. On June 4 at the amazing 60,000+ seat Marvel Stadium in Melbourne, Australia, I get to do just that at home in Australia’s biggest boxing event ever, when I defend my IBF, WBO, WBA, WBC Franchise and Ring Magazine lightweight world titles against Devin Haney, who will be putting up his version of his WBC title. I am very excited and hungry to continue building my legacy, and I will be victorious by any means necessary on June 4 when Haney steps up into the lion’s den of Marvel Stadium against this Aussie Greek lion. I will take not only his belt but put a serious dent in his young career.” 

“The Emperor, George Kambosos, is a different breed.  He sought out the challenge of Vasiliy Lomachenko to give the people of Australia the biggest event possible. When duty to country made ‘Loma’ unavailable, George demanded the biggest event possible and greatest challenge in Devin Haney,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “June 4 will be epic. Credit goes to George for his unprecedented drive to greatness and to Devin Haney for being a man of his word and accepting the final lightweight unification for boxing fans worldwide. Great appreciation to the Victorian Government for their patience and unwavering commitment to bringing this mega event to Marvel Stadium in the beautiful city of Melbourne. As George is proud of his Greek ancestry and Australian roots, Melbourne, which has a large and vibrant Greek community, is the perfect city for this Spartan warrior to defend his belts. Melbourne has hosted the Olympics, is home to the Australian Open, among other huge events, and Kambosos-Haney will rock Marvel Stadium.”  

“Since 2017, when George and I began working together, he had expressed his desire to fight overseas in order to accomplish his goal of winning the lightweight world title,” said Peter Kahn, Kambosos’ manager. “He said he would bring the belt, in this case, belts, back to Australia and pack a stadium for his first defense. Five years later, that is exactly what he is doing on June 4 when he faces Devin Haney for the undisputed lightweight championship of the world in Melbourne, Australia.”

Haney said, “First and foremost, I’d like to give all praise to Allah. Without him, none of this is possible. Secondly, I’d like to thank my father and trainer, Bill Haney, who is my rock, and my team and family for their support and countless sacrifices throughout this journey. Thank you to Lou DiBella, Bob Arum and ESPN for giving us this huge platform and the opportunity of a lifetime. I’d also like to give a special thanks to the Victorian Government and officials for hosting this event. I began my career fighting in small bars in Mexico. Now I’m on the cusp of greatness showcasing my skills on the world’s stage fighting for lightweight supremacy. I didn’t come this far to only come this far. Come June 4, I claim my place in history and add to my legacy! Undisputed lightweight king… I’m coming for all the belts!

“Traveling more than 8,000 miles to Melbourne is nothing compared to the journey Team Haney has been on since Devin turned pro nearly seven years ago at a pool hall in Tijuana, Mexico,” Bill Haney said. “I always knew Devin was destined for greatness. On June 4, he will show the Australian people, along with all the boxing fans around the world, that he is the best lightweight in the world. Devin is the most avoided fighter in the division. For Kambosos to step up and face the challenge is commendable. Foolish, but commendable. History will soon be made.”

“We are ecstatic to be bringing the undisputed lightweight championship to the beautiful city of Melbourne,” said Bob Arum, Chairman of Top Rank. “George Kambosos Jr. and Devin Haney demanded this fight, and it will be a historic night of boxing that will capture the attention of fans from around the world.”

“A matchup of this magnitude is destined to become the largest boxing event in Australian history, and Melbourne is undoubtedly the perfect host city with a rich history of delivering world class and globally recognized sporting event,” said David Higgins, Founder and Managing Director of Duco Events. “With the undisputed world championship of the lightweight division on the line, Melbourne will witness an epic battle of two incredible sportsmen at the peak of their powers.”  

“This will be the biggest boxing contest of the year and will bring thousands of fans to Melbourne,” said Jaala Pulford, Victoria’s Minister for Employment. 

Kambosos (20-0, 10 KOs) turned pro in 2013 and fought his first 13 bouts in Australia before embarking on a road warrior existence. He earned his shot at the lightweight title with an October 2020 victory over British former world champion Lee Selby in London. Thirteen months later, he traveled to New York City and stunned 10-to-1 favorite Teofimo Lopez by split decision in a 12-round barnburner to become the unified lightweight champion. Kambosos knocked down Lopez in the opening round, survived a 10th-round knockdown, and then came back with a furious late charge in the championship rounds to cement the victory. Kambosos won ESPN.com Upset of the Year honors for his effort, catapulted up the pound-for-pound rankings, and became an instant superstar in Australia. Rather than take a tune-up title defense, Kambosos insisted on bringing a mega-event to his homeland. He had a dream, and he turned to a 23-year-old prodigy to bring ultimate clarity to the lightweight division.

Haney (27-0, 15 KOs), a Las Vegas resident who won seven national titles as an amateur, was pegged for superstardom upon turning pro less than a month after his 17th birthday in December 2015. He made his U.S. debut in April 2016 on the Manny Pacquiao-Timothy Bradley III undercard in Las Vegas. Before he hit the legal U.S. drinking age, Haney ascended the ranks with one-sided victories over veteran contenders Mason Menard, Juan Carlos Burgos, and Antonio Moran. His knockout over Moran was picked as the ESPN.com 2019 Knockout of the Year. Haney won the WBC Interim lightweight title over Zaur Abdullaev in September 2019 and was soon elevated to full champion status. He has defended the green belt four times and has toppled former world champions in his last three outings. In 2021, Haney authored the two signature wins of his career as a Las Vegas headliner. He outboxed three-weight kingpin Jorge Linares over 12 rounds in May and followed that up with a clear points victory over former junior lightweight champion Joseph “JoJo” Diaz Jr. in December.

CORPORATE HOSPITALITY PACKAGES INCLUDING RINGSIDE SEATS

On Sale Now

www.VIPNOW.com.au

TRAVEL PACKAGES

On Sale Now

Via Keith Prowse Travel www.kpt.com.au

TICKETS WAITLIST

Tickets will go sale on Tuesday 26 April

Join the waitlist at Ticketek

www.ticketek.com.au

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

ABOUT TOP RANK
Innovation has been the standard at Top Rank since it was established in 1973 by Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum. The boxing industry’s leading promotional company, Top Rank has shaped, developed, and promoted the careers of top international pay-per-view superstars and Hall of Famers, including Muhammad Ali, Marvelous Marvin Hagler, Thomas Hearns, Roberto Duran, George Foreman, Sugar Ray Leonard, Oscar De La Hoya, Miguel Cotto, Manny Pacquiao, Floyd Mayweather Jr., Erik Morales, Timothy Bradley, Vasiliy Lomachenko and Tyson Fury.

Known for creating strategic collaborations between athletes, sponsors, and television networks, Top Rank has been an architect of boxing’s global growth by staging high-profile events in landmark settings around the world, including Madison Square Garden, MGM Grand Garden Arena, Wembley Arena, Yankee Stadium, Radio City Music Hall, and AT&T Stadium. Top Rank has also been the leader within the boxing industry in creating unforgettable in-arena experiences for fans and embracing 21st century technological advancements to distribute world-class fights and shoulder programming across a variety of platforms.

ABOUT VISIT VICTORIA
Visit Victoria is the State of Victoria’s primary tourism, business and major events company, leading the sector in creating, curating and communicating Victoria’s inspiring experiences to maximise visitation. Established in July 2016, Visit Victoria brings the best of Tourism Victoria, Victorian Major Events Company and Melbourne Convention Bureau under one brand that capitalises on commercial opportunities in an increasingly competitive and dynamic global tourism market. The team operates in a collaborative and agile environment that informs, connects and partners with industry and the Victorian State Government to amplify Victoria’s profile.

About TEG Sport
TEG Sport is owned by TEG, a leading global live entertainment, ticketing and technology business which operates worldwide out of seven country offices. TEG also includes TEG Live, TEG Experiences, TEG Dainty, TEG MJR, TEG Van Egmond, Laneway Festival, Handsome Tours, TEG Rockefeller, Qudos Bank Arena, Ticketek, Ticketek Marketplace, Eventopia, Softix, TicketCharge, TicketWorld, Ticketek Singapore and Ovation.

Life is Better Live. Whether it’s Sport, Concerts, Musicals, Theatre or Exhibitions, nothing beats the live experience!

For more information www.teg.com.au.




ERROL SPENCE JR. DALLAS MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES

DALLAS (March 31, 2022) – Unified WBC and IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr., a Desoto, Texas-native, declared that he is “on point” physically during a media workout in Dallas on Thursday ahead of his 147-pound title unification clash against WBA Welterweight World Champion Yordenis Ugas taking place Saturday, April 16 live on SHOWTIME PPV in a Premier Boxing Champions event from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

Responding to a statement made Wednesday by Ugas’ trainer Ismael Salas that he was a “different” fighter in his first fight back after a 2019 car accident, Spence smiled and said he was now in better shape physically and mentally and that Ugas’ trainer would soon see.

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 welterweight championship belt to his resume when he returns to fight at AT&T Stadium in front of his hometown fans for the third time.

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.

Spence held his media workout at World Class Boxing Gym alongside his longtime trainer Derrick James. The workout streamed live on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube Channel and can be watched in its entirety HERE. Ugas hosted a live streamed media workout on Wednesday in Las Vegas, which can be watched HERE.

Here is what Spence and James had to say Thursday:

ERROL SPENCE JR.

“I’m feeling good and I’m ready to go. This layoff was easier for me after the injury than the one after the accident because it was a lot less stress on my body. Mentally I was also prepared for what I was going to go through. I had been back in training before camp started for this fight so I’m ready.

“Even half of me would beat most of these guys at the top level. I feel great now and I’m 100%. Physically I’m on point and everything feels real regular. If Ugas’ trainer (Ismael Salas) thinks I’m a different fighter now, we’ll see in two and half weeks how different I am.

“Training camp has been great. I’ve had great sparring partners and we’ve been focused. I got a nutritionist and it’s made the weight cut much easier for me.

“I have everything in my arsenal. Whatever Ugas brings to the table, I’m ready for it. I’m going to dictate the pace and control everything. I’m making him fight my fight.

“From what I’ve seen, Ugas is very physical and very tough. He was waving Shawn Porter forward, so you know he has that fighter spirit inside of him.

“I’ve been putting in a lot of work and I’m not worried about my eye at all. It actually feels stronger than the other one. I’m just making sure that I’m 100% on point with everything.

“I’m not looking to say anything to the rest of the division. I’m going to send my message with my performance. When I have three belts, everyone is going to know what that means.

“I watched the Ugas vs. Manny Pacquiao fight live but I haven’t watched it since then. I thought the way that fight went was more because of Pacquiao being a shell of himself.

“I’ve been looking forward to this fight since I had to drop out of the Pacquiao bout. I knew I would be fighting the winner, and now I’ve got Ugas in front of me. He’s a tough champion who’s been through a lot in his life.

“I can’t sit back and fight a tune-up fight right now. I want to go straight in with the sharks. Ugas is going to push me to another level and that’s what I want. I knew that if I was fighting a tune-up I could sneak snacks in at night and stuff like that. I’m fighting someone on my level.

“Ugas is living the ‘American Dream’ and he wants to keep living the ‘American Dream’. His challenge is beating me and I want his belt.

“Those Mexican fans are a huge part of Texas and I love fighting in front of them. I’m planning on giving them the kind of amazing fight they love.”

DERRICK JAMES, Spence’s Trainer

“Camp has been great. Errol’s working hard and looking strong. We’ve had some very quick, very sharp and physical sparring partners. They’re keeping him on his toes and when he isn’t coming 100%, they’ll let him know it.

“I think the only difference with Errol between the Shawn Porter and Danny Garcia fights was the strategy and fight style he was using. Errol is doing great. We haven’t even thought about the eye. It’s not an issue.

“Errol has known this fight was coming for a long time, so he’s been training for months and months and has been prepared mentally.

“I never think about a matchup with a trainer but I’m excited to be up against a great trainer. He took down Manny Pacquiao so we’re going to be 100% ready.

“To be able to have Errol fight at AT&T Stadium is amazing because it just shows his progression and maturation as a fighter. For a young fighter like Errol, it’s a dream come true. We can’t wait.

“Other than the fight, that ring walk at AT&T Stadium is the best part of the fight. To go out there and be embraced by the fans like that, it’s crazy. It’s going to be a special moment on April 16.

“You’re going to see Errol in his top form in this fight. He’s coming to handle business. We’re not taking Ugas for granted at all. He’s very smart and has a great corner. We’re going to go skill for skill. There’s a true prize to be attained in this one.”

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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.




Saturday: Yuliahn Luna-Mayeli Flores Bantamweight World Title Bout Headlines Mexico Fight Night Streaming LIVE on ESPN+

(March 31, 2022) — WBC female bantamweight world champion Yuliahn “Cobrita” Luna will make her first world title defense against undefeated contender Mayeli Flores this Saturday, April 2 at BUAP Arena in Puebla, Mexico.
 
Luna-Flores and select undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively in the United States on ESPN+ starting at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
 
Luna (22-3-1, 4 KOs) had a brief run as IBF junior featherweight world champion from 2014-2015 and ultimately settled at bantamweight, where she received a shot at long-reigning champion Mariana Juarez in October 2020. She defeated Juarez in dominant fashion and then notched a pair of one-sided wins in non-title bouts in 2021. Flores (8-0-1, 3 KOs) has won four straight bouts since the lone draw on her ledger.

In undercard action on ESPN+:
Lightweight contender Oscar Duarte (21-1-1, 16 KOs), who is riding a string of six straight knockouts since a split decision loss to Adrian Estrella, will fight Argentina native Fernando Cancino (11-9-1, 3 KOs) in a 10-rounder. Cancino, a seven-year pro, has never been knocked out.
 
In an eight-round junior featherweight bout, Mexico City-born knockout artist Bryan Mercado (20-1, 15 KOs) makes his 2022 debut versus Pedro Tut (21-1, 6 KOs), winner of 16 straight fights.
 
The ESPN+ stream will begin with a six-round featherweight tilt, as 21-year-old phenom Edgar Gonzalez (8-0, 4 KOs) puts his unbeaten record on the line against Agustin Perez (6-3-1, 3 KOs).
About ESPN+ 
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 21.3 million subscribers. 
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Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $6.99 a month (or $69.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices). It is also available as part of The Disney Bundle that gives subscribers access to Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu for $13.99/month (Hulu w/ads) or $19.99/month (Hulu w/o ads).




O’QUINN’S READY FOR DETROIT RETURN

Lee Baxter Promotions is proud to announce our next event, ‘Broadway Boxing’ in association with DiBella Entertainment and Day 1 Records, on April 15 at the Garden Theater, Detroit.  Next Generation will be streamed live and exclusive on UFC Fight Pass®, starting at 8:30pm ET / 5:30pm PT. Headlining the event is heavyweights Mike Balogum (18-0 14 KO’s) and Ahmed Hefny (13-2 5 KO’s). The co-feature for Next Generation is an 8 round bantamweight matchup between Ja’Rico O’Quinn (14-1-1 8 KO’s) and Jobert Alvarez (20-2-2 7 KO’s).
 
“I love the challenge of going into a new territory, especially one with such deep roots in boxing like Detroit, who better to do it with then Lou DiBella” said President Lee Baxter. On April 15, boxing fans in attendance, and those watching on UFC Fight Pass®, will get to see a pair of undefeated heavyweight prospects Mike Balogun and Michael Pirotton-Bamogo, as well as the talented super featherweight Joshafat Ortiz and popular, local prospects. “I am excited to work with Lee Baxter to help bring Broadway Boxing to Detroit, a great city with a passionate fan base, famous for its deep boxing history and home to the legendary Kronk Gym,” said International Boxing Hall-of-Famer and President of DiBella Entertainment, Lou DiBella.  
Detroit’s very own, Ja’Rico O’Quinn, is back in action and looking to get back to winning ways after his first professional defeat back in September 2021. The highly rated and decorated amateur is looking to give an impressive performance as he co-features the event and boxes in Detroit for the first time since February 2019. O’Quinn is the former WBO International Flyweight Champion and is hoping for a win against Jobert Alvarez to boost him up the rankings.
 
Filipino boxer Jobert Alvarez is unbeaten in his last 6 fights holding a record of 22-2 and wants to continue his unbeaten streak against O’Quinn. Alvarez, who hails from Manile, Phillipines, is ready to give the fans a fight to remember. His  most notable win is the current WBO world light flyweight champion Jonathan Gonzalez
 
Also on the card will be
 
Joshafat Ortiz (9-0 5 KO’s) vs Derrick Murray (15-4-1 5 KO’s)
Michael Pirotton (5-0 2 KO’s) vs Jonathan Gruber (3-0 2 KO’s)
Sean Brewer (2-0 1 KO) vs TBA
 
Tickets for the ‘Next Generation’ at the Garden Theater start at $65 and are out NOW. Tickets can be purchased at Eventbrite HERE. The doors open at 6:30pm ET, with the first match starting at 7:00pm ET. The address for the Garden Theater is 3929 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201.
 
For those who are unable to attend the event, join us on the UFC Fight Pass to watch what is promising to be a great night of boxing.



ERICKSON LUBIN TRAINING CAMP QUOTES

LAS VEGAS (March 31, 2022) – Top super welterweight contender Erickson “Hammer” Lubin will look to “rewrite history” and move one step closer to becoming a world champion when he faces undefeated Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora in their eagerly-anticipated showdown for the WBC Super Welterweight Interim Title on 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.

Lubin shared insights into his training camp and previewed his upcoming matchup with Fundora, which represents another chance for the Floridian to move towards a second title opportunity after a 2017 defeat to Jermell Charlo.

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

Since that loss, Lubin (24-1, 17 KOs) has put together an impressive six-bout winning streak, most recently knocking out former unified 154-pound champion Jeison Rosario in June. Now, Lubin will face literally his tallest test in Fundora, a rising contender who stands at 6-foot-6 while possessing strong boxing skills and a willingness to mix it up on the inside.

Here is what Lubin had to say about training camp, Fundora and more:

On his camp in Las Vegas:

“This is the next step in my career to secure my shot at the title, so I took my training to the next level. I moved my whole camp to Las Vegas, to avoid all distractions. This is a career-defining moment for me, and a chance for me to rewrite history after my first world title fight. I want to be a world champion and to do that, I must sacrifice some of my comforts. My trainer Kevin Cunningham has also made some major additions to my training regimen and the hard work will be on display when I step in the ring.”

On his matchup with Fundora:

“I think he’s a very tough challenge for anybody in the division. He comes to fight and is always in tremendous shape. Fundora is tall and rangy but likes to fight in close quarters, which should make for a fan friendly and exciting fight. I’m in the best shape of my life and I know he’s going to be at his best for this fight. On April 9, I will not be denied.”

On fighting for the WBC Super Welterweight Interim Title:

“I have worked hard, taken on tough opponents, and climbed back to where I once was, and the WBC noticed what I did. By doing that, I am now able to take the next step to fulfill my dream when I started – which is becoming a world champion. Nothing in boxing is given to any fighter, and to become a world champion I must face one of the best emerging fighters in boxing. I’m ready!”

On fighting In Las Vegas on SHOWTIME:

“Fighting on a premier network like SHOWTIME, in the fight capital of the world, is a dream come true. I grew up watching fights on SHOWTIME on Saturday night and now a new generation of young fighters will see me in that position. If ever I need motivation, thinking about this situation gives me all the motivation I need. I won’t say I made it, but it truly shows me that with hard work, anything is possible.”

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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.

About Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
Virgin Hotels Las Vegas is a reimagined and re-conceptualized casino resort. The property is part of Curio Collection by Hilton and has been awarded the AAA Four Diamond Award in its first year of operation. The integrated resort intermixes a passion for food and beverage with music and culture and features three hotel towers totaling over 1,500 Chambers and suites; the 60,000 sq. ft. Mohegan Sun Casino, operated by Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment; a five-acre desert pool oasis including Élia Beach Club and a multi-functional event lawn; live music and entertainment theater with 4,500 capacity operated by AEG Presents; 24 Oxford showroom accommodating 650 guests; an exclusive portfolio of twelve food and beverage venues including Todd English’s Olives, Kris Yenbamroong’s Night + Market, the legendary Nobu, Michael Morton and David Morton’s ONE Steakhouse, Kassi Beach House from restauranteur Nick Mathers, Casa Calavera by global hospitality company TAO Group, the sports entertainment, daylife and nightlife venue Money, Baby! from Justin Massei and Mikis Troyan of Clive Collective, famous Afters Ice Cream, Pizza Forte by the Ferraro Family and signature Virgin Hotels restaurants and bars including The Kitchen at Commons Club, The Bar at Commons Club, The Shag Room and Funny Library Coffee Shop. The property is owned by JC Hospitality, LLC, in partnership with Juniper Capital Partners, Virgin Group, LiUNA, Fengate Asset Management, Dream and Orlando Development. The off-Strip playground is located at 4455 Paradise Road. For more information, visit www.virginhotelslv.com.

About Virgin Hotels
Virgin Hotels is a luxury lifestyle hospitality brand that combines heartfelt service and a personalized hotel experience inspired by the innovation and smart disruption that Sir Richard Branson’s global Virgin Group has pioneered for over 50 years. Each property intermixes a passion for food and beverage with music, design, and culture, fusing with the local landscape and providing a vibrant and inclusive environment for travelers and locals alike. The current portfolio includes five hotels—Virgin Hotels Chicago, Virgin Hotels Dallas, and Virgin Hotels Nashville, all voted in the top ten Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards in 2021, and newly opened Virgin Hotels New Orleans and Virgin Hotels Las Vegas. Locations in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and New York City are scheduled to debut in 2022, followed by Miami in 2025. In addition, Virgin Hotels continues to explore hotel, conversions, and ground-up development in Boston, Los Angeles, Austin, Philadelphia, Seattle, London, and more.

About Curio Collection by Hilton
Curio Collection by Hilton is a global portfolio of more than 115 one-of-a-kind hotels and resorts in nearly 30 countries and territories. Curio Collection properties offer guests authentic, curated experiences through distinctly local offerings and elevated amenities, while providing the benefits of Hilton and its award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors. Experience a positive stay at Curio Collection by Hilton by booking at curiocollection.com or through the industry-leading Hilton Honors app. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits. Learn more about Curio Collection by Hilton at newsroom.hilton.com/curio, and follow the brand on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.




SAVANNAH MARSHALL STARES DOWN WITH FEMKE HERMANS AT ST JAMES PARK, HOME OF NEWCASTLE UNITED FOOTBALL CLUB

Savannah Marshall says she has “tunnel vision” going into this Saturday’s defence of her WBO World Middleweight Title defence against Femke Hermans, the former WBO World Super-Middleweight Champion. 

Marshall headlines the BOXXER card taking place at Newcastle Utilita Arena, live on Sky Sports, knowing that a win will set up a showdown with bitter rival Claressa Shields, an encounter which would be the biggest fight in the history of women’s boxing.

The defending champion is immune to distraction however and is not looking past this Saturday’s bout against the hard-hitting Hermans.

SAVANNAH MARSHALL 

“I’ve got tunnel vision when it comes to who I’m fighting. I know I can’t overlook Femke. This is definitely my toughest fight to date. She’s a former world champion, she’s only ever been beaten by world champions so I’m expecting a tough fight.”

“Everyone keeps asking how I can focus on Femke when everyone is talking about Claressa. But the thing is, everyone’s been talking about Claressa for the past four years. She’s always been creeping about in the background for me, this is nothing new.

“[A win on Saturday means there is] nothing stopping setting up a massive fight between me and Claressa in the summer.”

FEMKE HERMANS

“I’m in very good shape, I’ve had a great training camp, everything has fallen together in the last month and I am ready to kick some ass on Saturday.”

“I’m going to do everything I can on Saturday. For me it’s a big chance to get back at the highest level after some difficult years. I’m going to give everything on Saturday so I can take the belt home so I can be the WBO champion in two different weight classes.”




STAR BOXING TAKES OVER CARNESECCA ARENAAT ST. JOHN’S UNIVERSITY FOR BOROUGH BOXINGSATURDAY, MAY 7, 2022

Queens, New York (March 31, 2022) – Boxing in the borough’s may never be the same. Star Boxing is excited to bring professional boxing to the famous Carnesecca Arena at St. John’s Univeristy in Queens, New York on Saturday, May 7, 2022.

“We are excited to partner with the prestigious St. John’s University in bringing professional boxing to Carnesecca Arena for the first time on May 7th” said Star Boxing CEO JOE DEGUARDIA. “The Queens boxing culture represents a no nonsense, bite down mentality which will be showcased in the ring come May 7. Be sure to grab your tickets now for what will be a thrilling night of fights!”

“St. John’s University is excited to work with Star Boxing to bring boxing to historic Carnesecca Arena this May,” said SCOTT LEMPERLE, Executive Director, Conference & Auxiliary Services at St. John’s university.

Tickets for “Borough Boxing” are on sale NOW and can be purchased by clicking HERE. The fight card will be announced soon. Doors will open at 6:30 PM ET and fists will fly at around 7:30 PM ET.
“Borough Boxing” is presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing on May 7, 2022 at Carnesecca Arena at St. John’s University in Queens, NY.
Bouts subject to change

FIGHT NIGHT TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE!
BUY TICKETS HERE!
TICKETS START AT JUST $50
FIGHT NIGHT: SATURDAY, MAY 7 AT CARNESECCA ARENA IN QUEENS, NY

STAR BOXING 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!




Tahmir Smalls Takes on Jorge Martin Garcia on Saturday, April 23rd at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA PA (MARCH 31, 2022)–On the heels of promoting a sure-fire “Fight of the Year”, RDR Promotions will be right at the 2300 Arena on Saturday night April 23rd.

In the main event, undefeated welterweight Tahmir Smalls of Philadelphia takes on veteran Jorge Martin Garcia in a bout scheduled for six-rounds.

Smalls is 7-0 with four knockouts. The 22 year-old is a three-year professional and is coming off a first-round stoppage over Seth Basler on February 19th in Melrose, Massachusetts.

Garcia, 37 years-old of Buenos Aires, Argentina is 13-8-1 with three knockouts. He 16 year-professional who is coming off a defeat to Jeovannis Berraza on October 29, 2021.

In the six-round co-feature, Jabril Noble (3-0, 2 KOs) takes on Nasir Mickens (2-1, 1 KO) in a battle of Philadelphia-based super featherweights.

Noble, 22, has been impressive in disposing of his first three foes, and is coming off an opening round stoppage over Joseph Santana on February 26th at The 2300 Arena.

Mickens, 26, is coming off a decision loss to Jordon Murphy on February 24th in Philadelphia.

A massive undercard has been assembled, and in six-round bouts:

Edgar Joe Cortes (9-6-1, 1 KO) of Millville, New Jersey takes on Gorwar Karyah (2-2,2 KOs) of Philadelphia in a super bantamweight fight.

Larry Fryers (11-5, 4 KOs) of Yonkers, New York fights Raekwon Butler (5-2, 3 KOs) of Brooklyn, New York in a super lightweight fight.

Isaiah Johnson (4-0, 4 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on an opponent to be named.

Erick TylerTucker (7-0, 7 KOS) of Los Angeles fights Kieron Hooks (3-2-1, 1 KO) of Philadelphia in a super middleweight bout.

In four round Bouts:

Angel Pizarro (4-1, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on an opponent to be named in a featherweight bout.

Brendan O’Callaghan (2-1,1 KO) of Philadelphia takes on an opponent to be named in a middleweight fight.

Leonidas Sopranidis (1-1, 1 KO) of Kilkis, Greece takes on an opponent to be named in a welterweight bout.

Boimah Karmo (2-0-1) of Sharon Hill, PA squabbles with Joshua Zimmerman (0-8) of Baltimore in a welterweight bout.

Devin Tomko (7-2, 3 KOs) of Toronto takes on an opponent to be named in a super middleweight fight.

Denzel Fudd (0-2) Barrington, New Jersey scraps with Soslan Alborov (0-1) of Philadelphia in a super welterweight fight.

Anthony Young (0-4) of Philadelphia will fight Raheim Cooke (0-2) of Philadelphia in a welterweight contest.

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

https://2300arena.showare.com/orderticketsvenue.asp?p=407




KILGANNON STEPS IN TO FACE CHELLI IN NEWCASTLE ON SATURDAY

Newcastle, England – 31 March 2022 – Undefeated Jack ‘The Cannon’ Kilgannon will now face rival Zak Chelli this Saturday night at the Utilita Arena in Newcastle in a battle of the super-middleweight prospects on the undercard of Savannah Marshall’s WBO World Middleweight title defence against Femke Herman, live on Sky Sports.

Oldham’s Kilgannon (11-0, 3 KO’s) replaces Diego Costa, who was announced yesterday but was unable to make the required weight safely at short notice, and it pits two fiercely proud, up-and-coming talents who are willing to face each other on the rise in their careers.

To his credit Former Southern Area Champion Chelli (10-1-1, 5 KO’s) is not phased by the late change and wants to get on with the job and deal with whatever is put in front of him to prove that he’s the real deal.

Fulham’s Chelli said, “I’m ready no matter what. I believe a boxer has to be prepared to face anybody at any time. I’m fit and ready and I’ll deal with whatever Kilgannon brings to me in the ring on the night. He’s unbeaten, like Costa was, Kilgannon’s ‘O’ will have to go instead.”

Former Central Area Champion Kilgannon, known as Jacky Boy, was already in training for a fight this Saturday in Wigan and jumped at the opportunity for a bigger fight

Kilgannon said, “I weighed up the risk versus the reward and this was too big an opportunity to turn down. I was in training for a fight in Wigan so I’m fit and ready to fight and then the offer came in to my manager. I’m a big and tall middleweight so super-middle is comfortable for me. It’s a huge opportunity live on Sky Sports to make my name by beating Chelli, who’s good but not outstanding. We’re coming to win.”




YORDENIS UGÁS LAS VEGAS MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES

LAS VEGAS (March 30, 2022) – WBA Welterweight World Champion Yordenis Ugás showed off his skills at a media workout in Las Vegas on Wednesday, as he nears his 147-pound title unification clash against WBC and IBF champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. taking place Saturday, April 16 live on SHOWTIME PPV in a Premier Boxing Champions event from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

Just the 12th unification fight in the rich history of the welterweight division, Spence vs. Ugás 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. Ugás earned this opportunity in his most recent fight, successfully defending his title against future Hall of Famer Manny Pacquiao in August 2021.

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.

Ugás hosted media at the Salas Boxing Academy along with his trainer Ismael Salas, in an event that was live streamed on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube Channel and that can be watched in its entirety HERE. Spence will work out tomorrow at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT in a live streaming event that will be available HERE.

Here is what Ugás and Salas had to say Wednesday:

YORDENIS UGÁS

“I’m very thankful for everyone who has supported me. I’m extremely ready for this fight and to give the fans a great show on April 16. This has been a fantastic training camp and I can’t wait.

“I’m happy to be fighting in Spence’s backyard, because they have great fans down there in Texas. It just adds extra motivation.

“We’ve had a great training camp here in Las Vegas with Ismael Salas. We always make sure that the hard work pays off. We’re going to be bringing our best into the ring.

“I was out of the ring for a long time, but when I came back and gave Jamal James the first loss of his career, I knew that I would be coming for big things. Everything changed for me that night and it’s all led up to this.

“The Pacquiao fight was a great night for me. After that fight my life changed in even more ways. But I’ve always kept myself humble. I showed everyone who the WBA champion was. I have my eye on continuing to make history.

“Being an underdog means nothing to me. I was the underdog against Pacquiao and now again against Spence. I’ve always been the underdog and it doesn’t faze me.

“It’s an honor to be in the ring with Errol Spence Jr. We’re fighting for three belts, but even more important is fighting for honor and respect.

“Fans can expect me to fight like a warrior. I’m going to take all of my hard work into the ring on April 16.”

ISMAEL SALAS, Ugás’ Trainer

“I watched Errol Spence fight Shawn Porter and then I watched Errol Spence fight Danny Garcia, after Spence had his accident. It was not the same Errol Spence Jr. I do believe he lost something between the Porter and Garcia fights.

“Training camp has been great. We’ve had a long camp and now we’re in the period where Ugás is starting to make the adjustments that he’ll need to be ready for what Spence brings.

“I want to face the best Errol Spence Jr., because I want the fans to get a great show. This is one of the biggest fights of the year. If he’s in top condition, then Ugás is going to be ready to give him a hell of a fight.

“Yordenis came to us with three losses and since then we’ve been beating undefeated guys and going step by step up to this point of facing top fighters. Manny Pacquiao was the biggest fight of his career and Ugás beat him clearly. That was the same Pacquiao who had beat Keith Thurman in his previous fight.

“We need to absorb the punching power of Spence. Everyone knows he’s a front-footed fighter who throws bombs from start to finish. It’s no secret that we need to use Spence’s aggressiveness and make it work in our favor.

“It’s been a process for Ugás to get back to this point. He had to regain his confidence when he first joined our gym. We had to make a transition from the Cuban style and make him more aggressive. Yordenis Ugás is a master of the middle distance. He knows how to make you miss and make you pay.”

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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.




BALOGUN AND JOS ORTIZ HEADLINE DBE’S BROADWAY BOXING IN MOTOR CITY?FRIDAY, APRIL 15, LIVE ON UFC FIGHT PASS®

New York, NY (March 30, 2022) DiBella Entertainment’s acclaimed Broadway Boxing series makes its debut in the Motor City on Friday, April 15, at Garden Theater in Detroit. The event, promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Lee Baxter Promotions, presented by Nissan of Queens, will be streamed live and exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading streaming service for combat sports, starting at 8:30pm ET / 5:30pm PT.

“I am excited to work with Lee Baxter to help bring Broadway Boxing to Detroit, a great city with a passionate fan base, famous for its deep boxing history and home to the legendary Kronk Gym,” said International Boxing Hall-of-Famer and President of DiBella Entertainment, Lou DiBella. “On April 15, boxing fans in attendance, and those watching on UFC Fight Pass®, will get to see undefeated heavyweight contender Mike Balogun, Manny Robles-trained Michael Pirotton-Bamogo, as well as rising super featherweight Joshafat Ortiz and popular, local prospects.”

Tickets, which start at $65.00, are on sale now through Eventbrite HERE. The Garden Theater is located at 3929 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201. Doors will open on the night of the event at 6:30pm ET, with the first bell at 7:00pm ET.

Heavyweight knockout artist Mike Balogun (18-0, 14 KOs), of Upper Marlboro, MD, headlines the event facing Ahmed Hefny (13-2, 5 KOs), of Queens, NY, in an eight-round contest. On December 2, 2021, Balogun scored an impressive first-round knockout against previously undefeated Trey Lippe Morrison, the son of former heavyweight champion Tommy Morrison. The athletic Balogun is a former college football standout who started for the legendary Oklahoma Sooners before playing in the NFL for three years. In his last bout, Hefny lost a close, split decision to unbeaten Dacarree Scott in January.

In the co-feature, popular Detroit bantamweight Ja’Rico O’Quinn (14-1-1, 8 KOs) takes on Filipino Jobert Alvarez (20-2-2, 7 KOs), of Renton, WA, in an eight-round encounter. He will be looking to rebound from his first defeat last September that aired on Showtime’s ShoBox series. O’Quinn previously held the WBO International super flyweight title and was a USA National champion as an amateur. Making his second appearance in the United States, Alvarez is a former WBC Continental Americas and WBO NABO titlist.

Unbeaten Joshafat Ortiz (9-0, 5 KOs), of Reading, PA, battles Derrick Murray (15-4, 5 KOs), of Saint Louis, MO, in an eight-round super featherweight clash. Ortiz was born in Juana Diaz, Puerto Rico, but moved to the US at age four. He was first introduced to boxing as a child, as his father, uncle and brother were all amateur fighters. Ortiz compiled an amateur record of 42-7, and was a three-time Pennsylvania Golden Gloves champion. He recently traveled to Dominican Republic to knock out Erickson Vargas in two rounds on March 12. Murray is coming off of a win against previously unbeaten Angel Flores in January.

Heavyweight prospect Michael Pirotton-Bamogo (5-0, 2 KOs), of Liege, Belgium, will make his US debut against fellow undefeated Jonathan Gruber (3-0, 2 KOs), of Fall River, MA, in a six-round bout. Pirotton-Bamogo, whose mother was born in the West African nation of Burkina Faso and father born in Belgium, now trains out of Southern California under the renowned Manny Robles. He took to boxing at the age of 18 and had a short amateur career with 15 fights, which included a 2018 tournament victory in France as part of the Belgian National Team.

Featherweight Sean Brewer (2-0, 1 KO), of Henderson, NV, will participate in a four-round bout on the untelevised undercard.

Further information on this event will be announced shortly.

Social Media
DiBella Entertainment
Instagram: @DiBellaEnt
Twitter: @LouDiBella, @DiBellaEnt
Facebook: @DiBellaEntertainment




FULL CARD ANNOUNCED FOR SATURDAY’S DETROIT BRAWL IN DEARBORN, MI

(Wednesday, March 30, 2022) The full card has been announced for this Saturday night’s (April 2) Detroit Brawl event in the Lincoln Ballroom of the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center in Dearborn, MI.

Presented by Salita Promotions, five fights are scheduled in support of the eight-round main event, featuring the return of Detroit’s undefeated lightweight Erick De Leon (19-0-1, 11 KOs) taking on hard-nosed Mexico City veteran Juan Jose “Piquet” Martinez (28-11, 20 KOs).

In the main supporting bouts will be undefeated former amateur star and professional middleweight Timur Kerefov (12-0, 6 KOs) taking on veteran Cleotis “Mookie” Pendarvis (21-9-2, 9 KOs) in an eight-round showdown.

WBC #9, IBF #15, WBO #14 light heavyweight Ali Izmailov (7-0, 5 KOs) will face Iquique, Chile’s Abraham Tebes (7-0, 3 KOs) in an exciting 10-round battle of undefeated 175-lb sluggers.

In a special showcase bout, Las Vegas via Nahariya, Israel, super flyweight David Alaverdian (5-0, 4 KOs) will make his United States fighting debut in a six-rounder against Kecskemet, Hungary’s Jeno Tonte (9-9, 8 KOs).

Undefeated Grand Rapids, Michigan-based lightweight star Joshua “Double J” Pagan (1-0, 1 KO) is slated for battle against pro debuting Virginian Jude Hammad in a four-round special attraction.

Also scheduled for action is current WBC USNBC Silver Heavyweight Champion Brandon Moore (11-0, 7 KOs) in an eight-round heavyweight showdown against Curtis Harper (13-7, 9 KOs).

“On April 2, we will see another star-studded card featuring some of boxings hottest prospects and contenders from Detroit, The State of Michigan and around the world and they are all fighting in competitive matchups,” said event promoter Dmitriy Salita. “Detroit is again becoming one of the hubs of professional boxing, which means a platform for homegrown talent and a place for the development of boxing’s best.”

Tickets for “Detroit Brawl” start at $40 and can be purchased by clicking HERE.
PLEASE NOTE: Tickets ordered online will be placed in will call at the box office for pick-up. A limited quantity of VIP tickets is also available by calling 313.529.7604.
ABOUT THE FORD COMMUNITY & PERFORMING ARTS CENTER:

The mission of the Dearborn Recreation & Parks Department is to help fulfill the social, educational and recreational needs of children, adults and families by providing quality programs and activities in clean and well-maintained facilities and to achieve this through exemplary customer service. For more information, visit their OFFICIAL SITE.

ABOUT SALITA PROMOTIONS:

Salita Promotions was founded in 2010 by Dmitriy Salita, a professional boxer and world-title challenger who saw the need for a promotional entity to feature boxing’s best young prospects and established contenders in North America and around the world. Viewers watching fighters on worldwide television networks including Showtime, HBO, ESPN, Spike TV, Universal Sports Network, UFC Fight Pass, DAZN, ESPN+ and MSG have enjoyed Salita Promotions fight action in recent years. We pride ourselves on offering our fighters opportunities inside and outside the ring. Salita Promotions looks forward to continuing to grow and serve the needs of fight fans around the globe.

Check the Salita Promotions YOUTUBE CHANNEL for regular updates of the modern world’s greatest fighters, contenders and prospects in action.




Unbeaten Two-Time World Champion and Phoenix-Native David Benavídez Battles Former World Champion David Lemieux Headlining Live on SHOWTIME® Saturday, May 21 from Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. in Premier Boxing Champions Event

GLENDALE, Ariz. – March 30, 2022 – Unbeaten two-time world champion and Phoenix-native David “El Bandera Roja” Benavídez will look to thrill the crowd in his home state for the second consecutive time when he battles former world champion David Lemieux in a 12-round showdown for the vacant Interim WBC Super Middleweight Title headlining live on SHOWTIME Saturday, May 21 from Gila River Arena in Glendale, Arizona in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will see hard-hitting Cuban prospect Yoelvis Gómez taking on Mexico’s Jorge Cota in the 10-round super welterweight co-main event.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Sampson Boxing and TGB Promotions, go on sale tomorrow, Thursday, March 31 at 10 a.m. PT and are available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com at the link HERE.

“I’m looking forward to this fantastic fight between David Benavídez and David Lemieux on May 21,” said Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing. “It will be bombs away between two great punchers when they get in the ring and whoever wins will be at the top of the division and looking at some very big fights on the horizon.”

“David Benavídez is one of the most feared punchers in the sport, and the fans in his home state of Arizona will be able to see their local hero once again on May 21 when he challenges a fellow knockout artist in former champion David Lemieux,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “There will be an exciting undercard live on SHOWTIME leading up to Benavídez’s showdown with Lemieux that will see the winner capture the interim WBC Super Middleweight title and move one step closer to regaining their world champion status.”

Still just 25-years-old, Benavídez (25-0, 22 KOs) enters this fight having knocked out his last five opponents, including a September 2019 knockout of two-time super middleweight champion Anthony Dirrell. Most recently, Benavidez returned to fight in Arizona for the first time since 2015 and delivered a dominating seventh-round knockout of Kyrone Davis. Benavídez is trained by his father José Sr., alongside his brother and former title challenger, José Jr. In 2017, he became the youngest super middleweight champion in boxing history by defeating Ronald Gavril on SHOWTIME at just 20 years old. Benavídez went from a 15-year-old prodigy sparring with Gennady Golovkin and Peter Quillin, to world title contender with a 10-fight knockout streak from 2015 through 2017, including a highlight-reel knockout of Rogelio Medina with a seven-punch combination that earned him his first title opportunity.

“I’m excited to be fighting for another belt, and I’m training extremely hard because it is another big opportunity for my career and future,” said Benavídez. “David Lemieux still has a lot of power, so I have to make sure I sharpen all my skills 100 percent. I’m confident I can stop Lemieux and I’m planning on giving my fans another great fight on May 21.”

Fighting out of his native Montreal, Quebec, Canada, Lemieux (43-4, 36 KOs) has won five consecutive bouts heading into May 21, including three-straight wins since moving up to super middleweight in December 2019. The 33-year-old became a middleweight world champion in June 2015, defeating Hassan N’Dam to capture the belt before dropping a unification bout against Gennadiy Golovkin later that year. Lemieux would earn a second shot at the 160-pound title, eventually dropping a decision to Billy Joe Saunders in December 2017. Lemieux is a proven power-puncher who owns knockouts over a slew of contenders including Curtis Stevens, Gabriel Rosado, Gary O’Sullivan and Glen Tapia.

“Ever since I turned professional, I’ve had my eyes on the WBC belt,” said Lemieux. “This is my chance to grasp it. This is a very important fight for me and I plan on making a strong statement on May 21. I’m coming to win.”

The 24-year-old Gómez (5-0, 5 KOs) made a big statement in his U.S. debut on Christmas, blasting out the typically durable Clay Collard in the first round of their showdown. Born in Havana, Cuba and now fighting out of Las Vegas, the southpaw showed power in both hands and relentless finishing skills, immediately making him a rising contender in the talent-laden super welterweight division.

“I’m very excited to be making my SHOWTIME debut against a tough veteran fighter like Jorge Cota, who has been in the ring with some very big names,” said Gómez. “I want to deliver a memorable outing with a spectacular performance. I’m going for the knockout and I’m not going to be shy about it. I can’t wait to show everyone watching that I’m the new monster in the super welterweight division. This is a dream come true for me and I’m not going to let this opportunity pass me by. I want to be recognized as the next great fighter from Cuba and with the new breed of Cuban fighters who are big punchers with great ring IQ’s.”

Cota (30-5, 27 KOs) is a rugged slugger who will present a step-up for the rising Gómez on May 21. Cota most recently dropped a May 2021 bout against unbeaten Sebastian Fundora and has also shared the ring with unified 154-pound world champion Jermell Charlo, former unified world champion Jeison Rosario and top contender Erickson Lubin. The 34-year-old from Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico scored back-to-back stoppage victories prior to the Fundora fight, defeating Thomas LaManna and Cesar Chavez.

“I honestly don’t see much in Gómez as a fighter,” said Cota. “I don’t understand why his team picked me as an opponent because he lacks experience and has never fought anyone at my level. He’s not ready for the kind of pressure that I’m going to bring. I strongly believe he made a mistake in agreeing to this fight.”

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




EntroBox Championship Boxing at Caribe Royale off to a hot start

EntroBox and Bally Sports successfully kicked off their championship boxing series Saturday, March 26 at the Caribe Royale in Orlando, FL.

All Bally Sports Entrobox Championship Boxing fight cards air live on Bally Sports Network, the Bally App and Display TV.

In the main event, featherweight Otabek “Bruce Lee” Kholmatov became the WBA’s number one contender following a dominant decision victory over previously unbeaten Andranik Grigorian. Khamatov stymied Grigorian with an excellent jab and body shots throughout the contest.

Scores were 118-110 and 119-109 twice. Kholmatov, who resides in Hollywood, FL and is originally from Uzbekistan, is 10-0 with 9 knockouts. Grigorian, a Miami Beach, FL based Armenian, falls to 14-3 (3 KO’s).

In the co-featured bout, Yamaguchi Falcao, 21-1-1 (9 KO’s) became the NABA Gold super middleweight champion by defeating ultra tough Damian Bonelli, 24-11 (20 KO’s) of Argentina. Falcao, a 2012 Olympic Bronze Medalist for Brazil, showcased his world class boxing skills but Bonelli had his moments and displayed a tremendous chin.

The official tallies were 99-91, 98-92 and 97-93.

Junior middleweight Anthony “ATV” Velazquez, 11-0 (10 KO’s) of Springfield, MA demolished Argentina’s Sergio Castellano, 11-9 (7 KO’s). Velazquez ended Castellano’s night with a vicious left hook at the end of the second round.

Heavyweight hopeful Norman “Pooh” Neely of Paterson, NJ bested rugged Puerto Rican Hector Perez in an eight round contest. Neely displayed solid all-around skills but Perez had his moments in the fight as well.

Scores were 80-72, 79-73 and 78-74 for Neely, who is 11-0 with 8 KO’s. Perez slips to 7-4 (3 KO’s).

Local favorites Sean “Untouchable” Mason, a lightweight from Altamonte Springs, FL and cruiserweight Adrian “Pretty Boy” Pinheiro of Orlando both kept their perfect records intact with second round knockouts. Orlando welterweight Jeovanny Estela, 7-0 (2 KO’s), won when Ruque Junco, 10-10-1 (6 KO’s), was disqualified for excessive holding.

“This card had a great mix of local and international talent,” said Amaury Piedra, Managing Director of Caribe Royale. “The energy in the venue was great and everybody had a great time. We’ve got a number of cards lined up with Bally Sports Network and Entrobox throughout 2022 and into 2023 and the events are only going to get better.”

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.

The next card is scheduled for May 21.

OTHER RESULTS:
Middleweight – Wayna Reid (1-1) UD4 Earl Henry (0-6-1)
Welterweight – Elijah Flores (2-0, 2 KO’s) KO2 Ashton Royal (0-3)
Welterweight – Juan Leon (6-0-1, 2 KO’s) TKO1 Phillip Ramer (0-1)




JERMELL CHARLO VS. BRIAN CASTAÑO UNDISPUTEDSUPER WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP REMATCH HITSDIGNITY HEALTH SPORTS PARK IN CARSON, CALIFORNIA ON SATURDAY, MAY 14

CARSON, CALIF. – March 30, 2022 – Unified WBC, WBA and IBF World Champion Jermell Charlo and WBO World Champion Brian Castaño will meet in a rematch of one of 2021’s most significant fights as again seek to become the first ever undisputed 154-pound champion in the four-belt era on Saturday, May 14 live on SHOWTIME from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event. Charlo vs. Castaño II was previously announced to take place on March 19, but was rescheduled after Castaño suffered an arm injury in training.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature rising welterweight star and pound-for-pound talent Jaron “Boots” Ennis dueling unbeaten Canadian Olympian Custio Clayton in an IBF Welterweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. Kicking off the telecast, Mexican contender Kevin González puts his unbeaten record on the line against Puerto Rico’s Emanuel Rivera in a 10-round super bantamweight attraction.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Lions Only Promotions, go on sale tomorrow, Thursday, March 31 at 12 p.m. PT and can be purchased through AXS.com. Ennis vs. Clayton is promoted in association with D&D Boxing.

“Saturday, May 14 will feature a scintillating card live on SHOWTIME as fans will be able to enjoy three high-stakes fights, topped by the eagerly anticipated undisputed championship rematch between Jermell Charlo and Brian Castaño,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Charlo and Castaño have proven once again that they are true warriors by going directly into this rematch that fans across the world demanded after the conclusion of their dramatic and unforgettable first fight. Now, the rabid sports fans in Southern California and watching live on SHOWTIME will get a front row seat to what shapes up to be an exceptional sequel at Dignity Health Sports Park, a venue renowned for hosting all-action contests.”

In an instant classic, Charlo and Castaño went toe-to-toe for 12 grueling rounds on July 17, 2021 on SHOWTIME, with the back-and-forth tilt ending in a split-decision draw. Each fighter believed they had done enough to have their hand raised in the first fight and will look to leave no doubt in the rematch.

Houston’s Charlo (34-1-1, 18 KOs) became a unified champion in September 2020, dropping Jeison Rosario three times on his way to an eighth-round knockout that earned him the WBA and IBF titles. Before that fight, Charlo had avenged the only loss of his career, as he reclaimed his WBC belt via an 11th-round knockout of Tony Harrison in one of 2019’s best fights. The 31-year-old is trained by Derrick James in Dallas and won his first world title in his debut fight with James by scoring an eighth-round knockout of John Jackson in 2016. He followed up that victory with three successful defenses, knocking out Erickson Lubin and Charles Hatley, and winning a decision over former world champion Austin Trout. Charlo returns to the same stadium where he won his first 12-round fight in a victory over Demetrius Hopkins in 2013.

“I’m the unified champ and I’ve got business to finish,” said Charlo. “My total goal as a kid was to win all of the belts as a professional and I plan to make history yet again on May 14, in front of my west coast fans and all across the world. If you know me, you know how I don’t take opportunities lightly – Lions Only, the time is now! Make sure you tune-in May 14.”

The 32-year-old Castaño (17-0-2, 12 KOs) put on a spectacular performance to capture the WBO title in February 2021, as he dominated Patrick Teixeira to wrest the belt away via unanimous decision. A native of Buenos Aires, Argentina, a win for Castaño on May 14 would be a monumental achievement in the storied history of Argentine boxing. Prior to winning his title, Castaño fought to a draw against two-division world champion Erislandy Lara in a 2019 action fight. He also owns triumphs over Michel Soro, Cedric Vitu and Wale Omotoso. A highly experienced amateur, Castaño notched victories over unified welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr. and top middleweight Sergiy Derevyanchenko before he turned pro.

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to face Charlo again for all four titles,” said Castaño. “This is champion vs. champion, just like it should be. The first fight was a great war. The rematch will be no different, but this time I won’t leave it in the judges’ hands. This is my era, and I will prove it.”

Ennis (28-0, 26 KOs) is the latest in the pantheon of outstanding Philadelphia fighters, combining sublime boxing skills with natural power in both hands. After numerous appearances on SHOBOX: The New Generation, the 24-year-old Ennis graduated to headlining his first SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast in April 2021, as he became the first fighter to stop former world champion Sergey Lipinets. He followed up that performance with an impressive first-round stoppage of veteran contender Thomas Dulorme in October. The knockout victory gave Ennis 18 KOs in his last 19 fights, with the only blemish being a no-decision in the first round against Chris van Heerden in December 2020.

“I can’t wait for this fight,” said Ennis. “This one means a lot to me. This is another step towards becoming a world champion. My time is now. Camp is going great, and I can’t wait to shine and put on a spectacular performance come May 14. It’s time for me to continue making big statements.”

A 2012 Canadian Olympian, Clayton (19-0-1, 12 KOs) fights out of Montreal, Quebec, Canada and will compete in the U.S. for the third straight time on May 14. The 34-year-old impressed in his U.S. debut in 2020, stepping in as a late replacement to fight former world champion Sergey Lipinets to a draw on SHOWTIME. Clayton most recently earned a 10-round unanimous decision over Cameron Krael in December 2021. He also owns 2019 victories over former champion DeMarcus Corley and Johan Perez, in addition to a 12-round decision win over then unbeaten Stephen Danyo in 2018.

“I love challenges and I know that I have a real one on May 14 against Jaron Ennis,” said Clayton. “That’s why I’m in this sport, to fight the best. When I prove myself against Ennis, nobody is going to be able to deny me a shot at the belts.”

The 24-year-old González (24-0-1, 13 KOs) will step in for his U.S. debut when he challenges Rivera on May 14 in Carson. A native of Sinaloa, Mexico, González has fought professionally since 2016, and owns a unanimous decision over former title challenger Ivan Morales in March 2021. González won a regional 122-pound title by stopping Alexander Mejia in July 2021, finishing the fight in round seven. Most recently, Gonzalez scored a first-round TKO over Antonio Guzman in December 2021.

“I am very happy to be fighting on a card of this magnitude,” said González. “To have my debut in the U.S. be on this stage, it is an opportunity that I have to take advantage of. No matter who my opponent is, I will always be ready and at my best. I am going to show everyone that I’m ready for the champions.”

Representing his native Bayamon, Puerto Rico, Rivera (19-2, 12 KOs) looks to make it three-straight victories on May 14. The 32-year-old put together a 12-fight winning streak between 2011 and 2017 before dropping a decision to then unbeaten Nate Green. Rivera returned to action after that fight in July 2021, winning a unanimous decision over Jonathan Lecona Ramos in his U.S. debut. Most recently, he stopped Wallington Orobio in November 2021.

“I was training at the gym when my manager told me I was going to be in this card,” said Rivera. “We never say no to any opponent that wants to fight me. I hope González is at 100% too, because I want us to put on a show for the fans and I want to continue on my way to fight for a world title. This is an opportunity I can´t let pass me by.”?




He’s Got Next: Lightweight Phenom Keyshawn Davis Returns April 30 Against Esteban Sánchez as Oscar Valdez-Shakur Stevenson Co-Feature LIVE on ESPN at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS (March 30, 2022) — Lightweight Keyshawn Davis, the 23-year-old Olympic silver medal superstar from Norfolk, Virginia, is coming to Las Vegas on Pro Football Draft weekend to show why he should be the boxing world’s top draft pick. Davis will battle Mexican veteran Esteban Sánchez in an eight-rounder Saturday, April 30 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.
 
Davis-Sanchez will be the co-feature to the junior lightweight title unification showdown between WBC champion Oscar Valdez and WBO king Shakur Stevenson.
 
Valdez-Stevenson and Davis-Sánchez will be televised live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. Undercard bouts will be announced shortly.
 
“Keyshawn Davis was the most sought-after free agent coming out of the Tokyo Olympics, and he is among the sport’s most gifted fighters,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “The main event features two of the world’s best fighters in Valdez and Stevenson, and I have little doubt that Keyshawn is on his way to becoming a pound-for-pound great.”
 
Davis said, “Fighting in Las Vegas at MGM Grand on Pro Football Draft weekend… I was born for this stage. I am going to put on another flawless performance and then watch from ringside as my brother, Shakur, puts on a show as well. The stars will be out, and they are going to see something special.”
 
Davis (4-0, 3 KOs) was supposed to fight Sanchez on March 19 in New York, but he contracted a non-COVID-related virus. He knocked out Jose Zaragoza in two brutal rounds in his Top Rank on ESPN debut last December. Davis made an impression against Zaragoza, folding his overmatched foe with a left hook to the body. His slightly delayed return comes against Sánchez (18-1, 8 KOs) a native of Ensenada, Mexico, who won a pair of fights in 2021 following his only career loss.
 
Promoted by Top Rank, tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting AXS.com.




FEDERICI–PINCHUK APRIL 9 MAIN EVENTCRUISERWEIGHT TITLE COLLISION AT RIVERS CASINO

Schenectady, NY (March 30, 2022) – On Saturday, April 9, Italy based WBC CA Champion SIMONE “TYSON” FEDERICI (Lazio, Italy 18-2-1 8KO’s) will put his title on the line against Pittsburgh based and NABA Gold Champion LYUBOMYR “THE DEMOLITION MAN” PINCHUK (Pittsburgh, PA by way of Ukraine, 14-8-2 8KO’s) who will also put his title on the line in a winner take all cruiserweight title collision.

In November of 2019, Federici made the trip to New York to fight Stivens Bujaj for the WBC Continental America’s Cruiserweight title at Star Boxing’s “Rockin’ Fights.” Federici pressed the action, coming forward for nearly the entire fight. At the close of the 10-round contest, Federici would defeat Bujaj by unanimous decision and return home to Italy with the belt. (98-92, 97-93 x2). Federici now returns to New York after two stay busy victories in Italy, looking to defend his belt, and climb the cruiserweight rankings.

Pinchuk earned his NABA Gold title by defeating Mario Flores by unanimous decision on the undercard of his Star Boxing stablemate JOE SMITH JR.’s (28-3 22KO’s) recent WBO World Light Heavyweight Title defense at Turning Stone this past January. Pinchuk put his punches together and used a sticking jab as well as his height advantage to keep Flores at bay, and return to Pittsburgh with the title.

Star Boxing CEO JOE DEGUARDIA had this to say about the main event, “This main event has both international allure and important world ratings at stake. Both Federici and Pinchuk have a lot on the line and their styles should matchup to create a thrilling main event on April 9.”

When Federici and Pinchuk clash on April 9 at Rivers Casino, not only will two cruiserweight belts be on the line but a significant world ranking will be at stake. Professional championship boxing takes center stage at Rivers Casino in what should be an electric main event and exciting fight card.
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!




World Cup Boxing Series inks pair of red-hot Mexican boxing prospects Jorge Lugo Cota & Marco Cota Moreno

LOS ANGELES (March 30, 2022) — World Cup Boxing Series (WCBS), founded by CEO Terry Hollan and matchmaker Guy Taylor, has signed two of the most sought-after Mexican prospects, lightweights Jorge Lugo Cota (8-0, 7 KOs) and Marco Cota Moreno (6-0, 4KOs).

The talented tandem had a combined 301-19 amateur record, including nine state and seven national championships.

“These two young men are the foundation of what our company is built on,” Taylor said. “Both of these young men have a deep amateur background, high ring IQ, and both are extremely marketable. We are going to introduce another tournament that will start in the summer and one, if not both young men, will be showcased in it.”

The 20-year-old Cota is the youngest member of the famed Montiel family. led by former 4-time World Champion Fernando Montiel 54-6 (39KO). “Jorgito,” as he is best known, was 155-15 as an amateur and 4-time Sinaloa State Champion.

As a professional, Cota has an 8-0 (7 KOs) record, winning each and every round of his young pro career.

“I am very thankful to the World Cup Boxing Series (WCBS), Guy Taylor and Terry Hollan,” Cota commented. “They have put their trust in me since day one. My job is to always be ready for any challenge put in front of me and I really appreciate this opportunity.”

Moreno, 19, was 146-4 as an amateur, highlighted by a bronze-medal performance at the 2015 National Tournament, in addition to winning a gold medal as National Champion. He was also a 5-time Sonora State Champion.

Moreno is currently 6-0 (4 KOs) in the pro ranks with all his knockouts coming in round one at an average time of less than two-minutes.

“I am very happy to sign with World Cup Boxing Series,” Moreno reacted . “I know that my career will be in good hands, and I will do everything possible to grow in this sport to be able to fulfill my dreams”

Cota (TKO5) and Moreno (UDEC4) were triumphant last week in Mexico during the 2022 Feria Nacional Nayarit Festival streamed live on UFC FIGHT PASS.

“Our plan is to keep these guys as active as possible without burning them out” Taylor added. “Thankfully, we can keep them fighting every month. If they’re ready to fight, we will have a spot for them. Our goal is to get both to 11-0 or 12-0 by the end of 2022”

INFORMATION:

Facebook: /WorldCupBoxingSeries

Instagram: @World_Cup_Boxing_Series




FIGHT HUB TV & FIGHTSTARS TO LIVESTREAM BXSTRS’ ‘HIGH-IMPACT’ BOXING THIS FRIDAY FROM MEXICO

This Friday, April 1, 2022, Fight Hub TV, in association with boxing’s best, up-and-coming digital platform, Fightstars, will proudly present High-Impact Boxing (Boxeo de Alto Impacto) a four-fight night of world-class boxing, streamed live, at no charge, from Jalisco, Mexico.

TO WATCH HIGH-IMPACT BOXING (4:17 PM EST/7:17 PM PST) PRESENTED BY FIGHTSTARS FOR FREE ON FIGHT HUB TV, CLICK HERE.

Presented by ‘The New Blood of Boxing in Mexico,’ BXTRS Promotions, in the high-impact 10-round featherweight main event, once-beaten power-punching knockout artist Eduardo “Sugar” Nunez (22-1, 22 KOs) Los Mochis, Sinaloa, will face fellow Mexican Adrian “Gallero” Pacheco (9-4-1, 5 KOs) of Mexico City.

Trained by the well-known Montiel family, in Los Mochis, the promising Nunez will be looking for his 23rd professional KO in as many wins and twelfth consecutive stoppage. The 24-year-old is a seven-year professional who has done all his fighting inside his homeland, thus far.

Also scheduled for the livestream are a pair of junior flyweights in an eight-round duel, as Hector “Rapidito” Flores (19-0-4, 10 KOs) of Tijuana, Baja California will take on Jose “Motorcito” Ramirez (13-8, 7 KOs) of Tlalchapa, Guerrero, Mexico.

Also scheduled is a six-round super featherweight battle between Mexico City’s undefeated Alberto Mora (3-0, 3 KOs) of Mexico City and an opponent TBA.

And to open the broadcast, unbeaten super featherweight Raymundo “Ray” Rojas (6-0, 4 KOs) of Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico, will take on Roberto “El Michoacano” Reyes (2-2) of Zitacuaro, Michoacan, over six rounds.

TO WATCH HIGH-IMPACT BOXING (4:17 PM EST/7:17 PM PST) PRESENTED BY FIGHTSTARS FOR FREE ON FIGHT HUB TV, CLICK HERE.

One of the fastest-emerging boxing-media companies in the world, fightstars.tv is a radically ambitious new subscription-based content-provider service offering world-class fights, gloves-off interviews, behind-the-scenes scoops and fight coverage from some of the biggest names in boxing to fans worldwide.

For more information on fightstars.tv, please visit their OFFICIAL SITE.

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CHELLI TAKES ON BRAZILIAN BANGER COSTA IN NEWCASTLE THIS SATURDAY NIGHT

Newcastle, England – 30 March 2022 – Fulham’s Zak Chelli will face the undefeated Brazilian Diego ‘Dynamite’ Costa in an exciting super-middleweight showdown on the undercard of Savannah Marshall’s WBO World Middleweight Title defence against Femke Hermans this Saturday night at the Utilita Arena in Newcastle, exclusively live on Sky Sports.

Fulham’s Chelli, who works as a supply teacher in London, has finished his school week early as he heads to the North East for his big clash with the heavy-punching Manchester based Latino who is regarded as one of the most avoided fighters around the weight.

Chelli (10-1-1, 5 KO’s) and Costa (8-0, 5 KO’s) could have met in the BOXXER 7 Super-Middleweight tournament in November 2020, but the tournament was reduced to a unique four-man format and Costa didn’t feature due to illness.

However, Chelli put on a classy and powerful performance on the night to shut out Vladimir Georgiev on points in the semi-final, before dropping Mike McGoldrick three times on the way to a second round stoppage in the final.

Former Southern Area Champion Chelli’s last fight was in April last year when he travelled to Kiev and defeated Borden Harrkavyi with a third round stoppage.

KO king Costa is unbeaten eight fights with five KO’s, with four of those coming quick inside three rounds. He credits his love of salsa dancing for his quick feet and generating the power from his hips to knockout opponents.

Chelli is excited with the fight against Costa and is promising to take his unbeaten record. He said, “I was gutted that we didn’t fight on Boxxer 7, but things happen for a reason and it’s a much better fight now down the line. Costa’s unbeaten, he likes to come forward, have a fight and he can punch. I can’t wait for this Saturday in Newcastle and I’m going to take that ‘0’ off his record. The fans in Newcastle and the viewers watching on Sky Sports are going to be in for a real treat.”




RYAN GARCIA SAN DIEGO MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTE

SAN DIEGO, CA (March 29, 2022) – Undefeated boxing sensation, Ryan Garcia (21-0, 18KOs) of Victorville, CA, hosted a media workout today ahead of his scheduled match against Ghana’s Emmanuel “The Gameboy” Tagoe (32-1, 15KOs) on April 9th. The 12-round, lightweight Texas showdown will take place at San Antonio’s historic Alamodome on Saturday, April 9th, and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN. Today, Ryan showed off for the media all the hard work he has been putting in ahead of his fight. Also, Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy and Joe Goossen were in attendance to support Ryan and talk about his return to the ring on April 9th. Below is what Ryan, Oscar and Joe had to say. To watch the live stream, hosted by Golden Boy Fight Night’s Beto Duran, click HERE:

RYAN GARCIA, LIGHTWEIGHT CONTENDER:

“Now I’m at the point where I’m going to do amazing when I get into the ring. I’ve done all the promotion I can. I’m going to be the best I can be. You have to trust that gut feeling which most guys don’t.

“I knew Joe Goossen was going to be a perfect fit for me. He’s old school and I love that part of the game. He’s someone I can relate to, we have good chemistry.

“I’m always stalking my opponent, that’s my fighting style. Making sure I’m countering. Whenever an opportunity presents itself.

“I got knocked out for the first time in my life and I took it well. I reacted the way I imagined I would.

“I’m pretty good at fighting smaller guys. [Tagoe] is a little shorter and he likes to box.

“Fighters always try to pressure me. We’ll see since I don’t know too much about this guy. I’ll just stay calm and surgically break him down or knock him out. I have pretty good timing and accuracy. I think that has really separated myself from other fighters.

“My power has been coming out more effortlessly. I’m also not getting as tired. Everything’s coming together.”
OSCAR DE LA HOYA, CHAIRMAN AND CEO OF GOLDEN BOY:
“He’s fighting a guy who has nothing to lose,“ said Oscar De La Hoya. “I think Ryan needs to come out and make a point but do it smart and careful. Ryan knows what he is doing. He’s a professional. He’s been there before so it’s going to be an interesting fight. Joe Goossen has been in the game for so many years. I’m glad they made the connection”

JOE GOOSSEN, TRAINER TO RYAN GARCIA:
“I knew he had something special. We got along and there was something about him that appealed to me personality wise and fighting wise. He’s really attacking this like he’s obsessed and possessed. I’m genuinely impressed.”

Media credential applications to attend the Ryan Garcia vs. Emmanuel Tagoe fight are now open and can be accessed by going to: https://emcevents.com/garciatagoe.html. Please note credential applications will close on March 30th.

Garcia vs. Tagoe is a 12-round lightweight fight presented by Golden Boy in association with DiBella Entertainment. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle,” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Saturday, April 9th, at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN worldwide.

Tickets for Garcia vs. Tagoe are on sale now and are priced at $250, $150, $100, $75, and $40, not including applicable facility fees. Tickets will be available for purchase at Ticketmaster.com or in-person at the Alamodome Box Office, Monday through Friday, from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. CT.

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




UFC® TO MAKE HISTORY IN SINGAPORE IN JUNE ; UFC® 275: TEIXEIRA vs PROCHAZKA WILL MARK UFC’S FIRST PAY-PER-VIEW AND CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE BOUTS HOSTED IN SOUTHEAST ASIA

SINGAPORE – UFC®, the world’s premier Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) organization, today announced a pair of historic firsts which will take place in The Lion City, Singapore.

UFC® 275: TEIXEIRA vs PROCHAZKA will take place on Sunday, June 12, at the Singapore Indoor Stadium, making it the first-ever numbered UFC Pay-Per-View to be held in in Southeast Asia. The event will also feature the region’s first UFC championship bouts, as UFC world light heavyweight champion Glover Teixeira takes on No. 2 Jiri Prochazka, and UFC world women’s flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko faces No. 5 Taila Santos.

UFC® 275: TEIXEIRA vs PROCHAZKA will be UFC’s fourth event hosted in Singapore with support from the Singapore Tourism Board (STB). In planning the return of live events in Asia, UFC selected Singapore because of its proven health and safety track record and its outstanding infrastructure across all components – both of which are key to ensuring the successful production of a premium international event.

UFC® 275: TEIXEIRA vs PROCHAZKA will place Singapore alongside other major international locations to hold multiple UFC events including Tokyo, London and New York City. The presentation of a numbered Pay-Per-View event to Southeast Asia signifies the development of UFC in the region and the mixed martial arts promotion’s remarkable global growth.

“I can’t wait for our first Pay-Per-View event in Singapore,” said UFC President Dana White. “The fights have been incredible this year and we’re going to deliver an absolutely stacked card for the amazing fans in Southeast Asia.”

“Singapore will be the very first city in Southeast Asia to host a PPV event and UFC 275 is going to be huge! Asia’s biggest stars will be featured on a top caliber card, and the jam-packed fight week will be one to remember,” said Kevin Chang, UFC Senior Vice President, Asia Pacific. “We are thankful for STB’s support for this historic event in Singapore that will proudly showcase this vibrant and dynamic city.”

“UFC 275 will be the first UFC numbered event in Asia after a decade, and its presence highlights Singapore’s position as a leading destination for sports in the region,” Ms Ong Ling Lee, Director, Sports and Wellness, Singapore Tourism Board. “It is also a timely boost to our vibrancy and attractiveness as a lifestyle destination, as more international visitors return to Singapore.”

In 2014, UFC held its first event in Singapore, UFC Fight Night: Saffiedine vs. Lim, followed by UFC Fight Night Singapore: Holm vs. Correia in 2017, UFC Fight Night Singapore: Cerrone vs. Edwards in 2018, and UFC Fight Night: Maia vs. Askren in 2019. UFC® 275: TEIXEIRA vs PROCHAZKA will be the fifth event overall to be held in Singapore.

Leading global live entertainment company AEG Presents has been appointed as the official promoter of UFC® 275: TEIXEIRA vs PROCHAZKA in Singapore.

“AEG is extremely proud to be associated with UFC to bring this marquee event to Singapore,” said Adam Wilkes, President and CEO, AEG Asia Pacific. “UFC 275 will be an amazing experience for fight fans and for those who love, and have missed, world class events.”

UFC WORLD LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

In the ultra-competitive light heavyweight division, UFC world champion Glover Teixeira (33-7, fighting out of Bethel, CT, USA by way of Governador Valadares, Brazil) will make his first title defense since winning the belt with a second-round submission of Jan Blachowicz at UFC 267. Standing across the Octagon will be first-time title contender Jiri Prochazka (28-3-1, fighting out of Hosteradice, Czechia) who earned his shot with back-to-back KOs of No. 7 Volkan Oezdamir in his UFC debut then No. 3 Dominick Reyes.

UFC WORLD WOMEN’S FLYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Women’s pound-for-pound best, UFC world women’s flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko (22-3, fighting out of Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan) will make her seventh defense of the title and look to extend her eight-fight win streak. Dana White’s Contender Series veteran and No. 5 contender Taila Santos (19-1, Jaragua Do Sul, Brazil) earns her first title contention after a blazing four-fight win streak.

Additional bouts on the card include:

  • Former UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker (23-6, fighting out of Sydney, Australia) will face former title challenger Marvin Vettori (17-5-1, fighting out of Huntington Beach, Calif. by way of Mezzocorona, Italy).
  • A pair of surging middleweights return to the Octagon when Brendan Allen (18-5, fighting out of Milwaukee, Wisc.) meets Jacob Malkoun (6-1, fighting out of Sydney, Australia).
  • South Korea’s notable UFC veteran Kyung Ho Kang (17-9, 1 NC, fighting out of Busan, South Korea) aims to rebound in his 11th Octagon appearance and make a push towards the division’s top 15 when he faces Dana White’s Contender Series signee Saimon Oliveira (18-4, fighting out of Balneario Camboriu, SC, Brazil).

Additional bouts will be announced over the coming weeks.

UFC® 275: TEIXEIRA vs PROCHAZKA will begin at 6 a.m. SGT with the prelims, followed by the main card at 10 a.m.

Fans can stay up to date on ticket presale promotions by visiting and registering at https://ufc.com/presale.

Media members can apply for credentials to all UFC events by creating an account and registering at https://access.ufc.com/media_users/sign_in

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About UFC®

UFC® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 688 million fans and 188 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to nearly 900 million TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 75 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is owned by global entertainment, sports and content company Endeavor, and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram and TikTok: @UFC.

About AEG Presents

Combining the power of the live event with a focus on true artist development, AEG Presents is a world leader in the music and entertainment industries. Operating across four continents, the company has an unparalleled commitment to artistry, creativity, and community. Its tentpole festivals and multi-day music events — which include the iconic Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival, the legendary New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, British Summer Time at Hyde Park, Stagecoach, Hangout Festival, Electric Forest, and Firefly — continue to set the bar for the live music experience alongside such renowned clubs and theaters as Webster Hall, Eventim Apollo, Mission Ballroom, The Roxy and Forest Hills Stadium, to name a few. AEG Presents promotes global tours for such artists as Justin Bieber, Kenny Chesney, Celine Dion, Elton John, Paul McCartney, Katy Perry, The Rolling Stones, Ed Sheeran, and Taylor Swift, in addition to creating and developing an unmatched infrastructure for artist development and audience reach through its network of clubs, theatres, arenas, stadiums, renowned wholly owned brands Concerts West and Goldenvoice, and partner brands Messina Touring Group, The Bowery Presents, PromoWest Productions, Marshall Arts, Frontier Touring, and Zero Mile Presents. More information can be found at www.aegpresents.com.




ERROL SPENCE JR. VS. YORDENIS UGAS PPV UNDERCARD VIRTUAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

ARLINGTON, TX. (March 29, 2022) – Fighters competing on the Errol Spence Jr. vs. Yordenis Ugas SHOWTIME PPV undercard previewed their respective showdowns during a virtual press conference Tuesday before they step into the ring on Saturday, April 16 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

The virtual press conference featured exciting lightweight contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz and former world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa, who meet in the co-main event, unbeaten Jose Valenzuela and former world champion Francisco Vargas, who square off in a lightweight attraction, plus all-action welterweights Cody Crowley and Josesito Lopez, who battle in the telecast opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

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.

Here is what the fighters had to say Tuesday:

ISAAC CRUZ

“I feel blessed and I’m ready to give my all once again. I’m excited to continue to show the best of myself in 2022.

“I wish I had pressured more against Gervonta Davis. If I had knocked him down I think it would have been a different story and it would have been me with my hand raised.

“Everything that happened in the Davis fight has made me better. My profile is definitely raised, but it has not gone to my head. I’m only focused on giving the fans the show that they crave and I know that I’m capable of giving them that.

“I respect Gamboa and I thank him for the opportunity of getting to fight him. His resume is beyond reproach. However, I’m not here to lay down for anyone. I’m here to show that I’m one of the top fighters in the division.

“My fists are going to speak inside of the ring. It’s not for me to say whether one punch can change the fight or not, we’re going to see what happens inside the ring on fight night.

“Each fight is different. I’m going to be ready for anything that Gamboa has to offer. I’m getting ready with an amazing training camp and I’m looking forward to showing everyone everything that I’m capable of.

“I learned a valuable lesson from the Davis fight. I learned that I need to be focused inside the fight at every moment. I’m going to show people that I’m the Mexican fighter that can rule the 135-pound division.

“I’m ready for however long it takes me to get this win, one round or all 12. I’m going to prove to all the top lightweights that I’m ready to fight any of them. If those fighters want to prove that they belong on the top level, then they have to fight me.”

YURIORKIS GAMBOA

“What I value the most is the fact that I’m going to be able to give fans the chance to see me fight once again and show them what I can do in the ring.

“I’m a pro. I’m not in the business of sending messages or making statements. What I’m focused on is trying to become number one and being the best I can be inside the ring in order to beat my opponent. The rest is just talk.

“My mere presence in this fight, the way that we have been prepared for this fight and what’s at stake, that alone tells you that I am one of the top fighters in the division.

“I have a tactical plan. I have a strategy ready to go for whatever happens. I’m ready to go for whatever comes my way and I’m planning to face anything and everything.

“I definitely have the edge in experience but at the same time, I’m going to rely on my preparation. I’m going to rely on the game plan and the strategy that we have put together to be able to fight and win any way we can.

“I’m going to show everybody that’s watching on T.V. and that’s watching in the stands that Yuriorkis Gamboa is still here to stay and that Yuriorkis Gamboa can still be the best in the division. There’s definitely a lot of people that are overlooking what I still have left in the tank and the quality of fighter that I still am. People are going to see that that’s just noise.

“When I beat Isaac Cruz, I want the rematch with Gervonta Davis. I really didn’t feel comfortable with the way that first fight unfolded. I fought with a torn Achilles for 11 rounds but I was still able to withstand everything and get to the finish. I need another bite at the apple and I need to show that I have the quality to beat him. I need to fight him while I’m healthy and 100 percent, because that fight will be totally different.”

JOSE VALENZUELA

“This win is going to show everyone that I’m here and that I can compete with the top guys. Francisco Vargas is a strong former champion and I’m excited for the challenge.

“I’m always trying to make a statement, but I don’t want to get carried away looking for the knockout and make a mistake. I’m going to stick to the game plan.

“Vargas is still a great fighter. He gave Isaac Cruz a run for his money and couldn’t get him out of there. So my mission is to go in there and out-perform everybody.

“It’s a dream come true to be on a card like this. The whole card is stacked. I’m very excited and I’m looking to steal the show. This is everything that I’ve worked so hard for.

“I just remember watching Vargas coming up and putting on great performances. I’m happy about it. He’s the perfect opponent because we’re both going to come to fight.

“I’m extremely focused on this fight. He’s still a dangerous fighter. I’ve been in training camp for three months. I’m not just training to win, I’m training to look spectacular.

“It’s a great experience training with David and Jose Benavidez and their team. When I go and spar other fighters, I feel like a veteran because I’ve been training with them since I was a teenager. It’s been a great opportunity for me.

“I’m hungry, I’m young and I believe that he’s on his way out. You could definitely call this a passing of the torch.”

FRANCISCO VARGAS

“My main objective is to win the fight. Nothing else matters. All I want is to win the fight in order to get the best possible opportunity after this fight.

“I’m going to listen to my body. That’s the bottom line. When I can feel that my body says no more, then that will be the time for me to step aside. But for now, I feel like my body is just fine. I feel capable. I feel ready and I will be ready to go on April 16.

“Of course it motivates me when I hear Valenzuela say that I am past my prime and on the way out. But at the same time, I know how I feel. I feel totally ready. I feel in shape physically and mentally to be up to the challenge. I’m going to prove that to all of you on fight night.

“We are simply going to take this fight round-by-round. We are doing a great job in training camp to make sure that I can go the entire 10 rounds if needed.

“I can promise you that it’s going to be a great fight. A very entertaining fight. The fans are going to love it.

“I know what it feels like to be Jose’s age. I was in his place at one point where I felt like I had all the energy in the world and felt that I was going to take over the world. But what I’m lacking in youth, I gained in experience. I have maturity now. In this fight, you’re going to see how that experience is going to work in my favor.”

CODY CROWLEY

“The victory in my last fight didn’t change my confidence. I’ve had the same confidence since day one. What did I say at the last press conference? I told Kudratillo Abdukakhorov I was going to take him to deep waters. What you saw was a guy who was sinking and drowning. That’s because of the high power pressure I produce every time I’m in the ring. It looks easy, and guys say they want to go toe-to-toe with me, but within a round or two, their backs are on the ropes.

“I have a guy in Josesito Lopez who’s coming forward and who’s ready to sit there and bang it out. That’s what I’m here to do. I’m here to give the fans the entertainment that they’re paying for. Every time I fight I make sure the fans are getting their money’s worth.

“I thank Josesito for taking this fight. Without him, I wouldn’t be able to get in the ring and paint the beautiful picture I’m about to paint. I respect him, but when the bell rings, the light goes off and it’s time to go.

“I bring a pressure that’s not fun to face. I make it so you can’t breathe and you can’t move your legs or hands. I’m like an octopus in that ring. Once I step in there, I’m on you like glue.

“I hope he brings another level of experience and puts me into a position I’ve never been in, because that’s going to bring out the best version of Cody Crowley. That’s what I strive for. I want to be in a position that I don’t think I can get out of. That’s when you will see what I’m truly made out of.

“At the end of the day I’m a scrappy, hard-working pressure fighter that just keeps coming forward. I would love to be able to showcase some of my boxing abilities. Normally I have to chase people down. I’m hoping that’s not the case with Lopez and that we can go toe-to-toe. But I’ll be ready to show off the boxing abilities that not everyone has seen.

“I have power, speed and aggression. The last 20 guys have said they were going to be able to withstand the pressure, but eventually, the pipe bursts.”

JOSESITO LOPEZ

“Everyone should expect fireworks. You know every fight that I’m in, it’s fireworks. Cody Crowley seems to be the exact type of fighter that I like facing. I know it’s going to be a great match and you’ll see a big difference in experience. I’m going to take him to those deep waters and I’m going to drown him in those deep waters.

“Is Josesito Lopez still a top fighter at 147 pounds? Yeah, that may be the question. You’ll see on April 16. I’m definitely ready. I feel great. I’ve had a wonderful camp. I take no shortcuts. I’m all in and I’m ready for this fight. I take every fight like a championship fight.

“I’m the type of fighter that doesn’t look ahead past my next opponent. I’ve devoted the last eight weeks of training camp getting ready for this opponent. I’m not looking far ahead. I have a task on April 16 and once I take care of that, we can look ahead. I definitely want to face the best fighters there are. The best in the world. I’m not going to go as far as to say that I’m the best fighter in the world, but I can beat some of the best fighters in the world. I want to prove that.

“I’ve been motivated this entire camp. I’m ready. I’m expecting the best in Cody. I’m more than prepared. I have a great team and great sparring partners that can be top welterweights as well. I’m definitely prepared and I’m going to prove it to the world and show that I am one of the best fighters in the world.

“I’m always in the gym so I’ve been training constantly. Sometimes a little rust is good. But I’ve been sparring and training throughout this entire year. Ring rust won’t be an issue.

“I’m excited to be back at AT&T Stadium in Texas where I have some of the biggest and best fans out there. I’m pumped for this fight. I’m 110% ready and I’m going to go out there and do it.”

# # #

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.




Four More Big Wins By Split-T Management Fighters

New York, NY (March 29, 2022)- Split-T Management Fighters had their hand raised on Saturday. Those four were in addition to Ebanie Bridges winning the IBF Bantamweight title on Saturday afternoon.

Saturday night at The Resorts World Hotel in Las Vegas, Split-T Management went three-for-three with impressive victories.

2021 U.S. Olympian Tiger Johnson stopped Sebastian Gabriel Chaves in around four of their six-round welterweight bout.

In round four, Johnson dropped Chaves with a right hand. Later in the round, Johnson dropped Chaves with a massive left hand and the fight was stopped at 1:42.

Johnson, 142 lbs of Cleveland, OH is 3-0 with two knockouts. Chaves, 143.2 lbs of Buenos Aires, ARG is 5-4.

Haven Brady Jr. stopped Juan Angel in round four of a scheduled six-round featherweight bout.

In round four, Brady landed a hard flurry of punches and was able to put Angel down with a double right. Brady finished off Angel by dropping him with an uppercut and the fight was stopped at 2:05.

Brady, 127 lbs of Albany, GA is 6-0 with four knockouts. Angel, 126.6 lbs of Chile is 8-3.

Dante Benjamin Jr. won a four-round unanimous decision over Kevin Johnson in a battle of undefeated light heavyweights.

Benjamin, 173.6 lbs of Cleveland, OH won by scores of 40-36 on all cards is now 2-0. Johnson, 174.4 lbs of Wichita, KS is 2-1.

Johnson, Brady and Benjamin are promoted by Top Rank.

At the Montreal Casino In Montreal, Mary Spencer needed just 23 seconds to take care of Beatriz Aguilar in their scheduled four-round six-round welterweight bout.

Spencer of Montreal, was a three-time world amateur champion and Pan-American Games champion is now 4-0 with three first round knockouts.

Aguilar of Mexico is 7-7-2.

Spencer is promoted by Eye of the Tiger Management.




Date & Venue announced for WCBS tournament championship final

LAS VEGAS (March 28, 2022) – Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions (RJJ Boxing) and World Cup Boxing Series (WCBS) have jointly announced the date and venue for the championship final of the inaugural “WCBS 4-Man Lightweight Tournament.”

The two finalists, Luis “Koreano” Torres (15-0, 10 KOs) and Irving “Poderoso” Castillo (12-2, 8 KOs), will throw-down June 2nd in the main event at Palenque de la Expo in Obregón, Sonora, Mexico.

“The anticipation has been building and we are all very excited that the tournament final is almost here,” RJJ Boxing president Lisa Veltre commented. “We’re happy to be returning to Obregon. I’d like to thank our partners for this tournament: Guy Taylor, Terry Hollan, and Emanual Romo.”

“June 2nd is going to be an electric night of action,” WCBS creator/matchmaker Guy Taylor said. “Luis Torres is quickly becoming a major attraction in his hometown of Obregón, Sonora, Mexico. More than 2,100 fans came to the semifinals, and we are expecting a near sellout for the finale.

“The winner of our ‘4-Man Lightweight Tournament’ will take a huge leap from prospect to contender in the very rich lightweight division.”

In tournament semifinals action held this past February at the same venue, Torres knocked out Rodolfo “Rudy” Flores (14-6, 6 KOs) in round four, after dropping him in the second and third rounds, while Castillo took an 8-round majority decision over Isai “Gaga” Hernandez (11-3-1, 7 KOs) to set-up his showdown. Pre-tournament favorite Torres, 20, will be headlining again in his hometown of Obregon.

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.




PROBELLUM SIGN TEENAGE AMATEUR STAR DUBBED THE ‘NEXT AMIR KHAN’  

LONDON, MARCH 29 – Probellum have added the lightning quick teenage amateur Ali Tazeem to its growing stable of red-hot prospects.

The 18-year-old won 15 international gold medals in a 51-bout amateur career and has earned a glowing endorsement from British boxing great Amir Khan who predicted: “He will be the next me and make history.” Tazeem, who was born in Wolverhampton, announced his deal with Probellum, the fastest growing brand in boxing, after winning his final amateur bout for the Pound 4 Pound Academy on Saturday, in front of a packed crowd in Birmingham. The hugely popular Tazeem forced a standing count of his opponent on the way to a unanimous points victory, with his dazzling performance also including an ‘Ali Shuffle’ to entertain his fans. “I’ve followed Ali Tazeem’s career for years now and I can assure everyone he’s got all the tools to make it to the very top of this sport,” said Sam Jones, Probellum’s Head of Talent Relations. “He’s 18 years old so there is no need to rush him, we can build him nice and slowly, so we know exactly when he’s ready to make the step up.  But let me tell you, I cannot wait to watch this journey unfold.” Tazeem, who won 45 times as an amateur and won medals at major tournaments such as the Monkstown Box Cup, joins Probellum’s impressive list of young talent. Olympic silver medallist Pat McCormack announced himself to the pros with a knockout win in Newcastle last week, on a card which also included the exciting Mark Dickinson, while Peter and Joe McGrail as well as debutant Luke McCormack look to further enhance their reputations on Probellum’s Liverpool show next month. “I’ve made a lot of moves inside the ring, but the best move I’ve made in my career is signing with Probellum,” buzzed Ali Tazeem.  “With hard work and dedication, I know I can be the best in the business, especially with the support of Sam Jones, Probellum, my team and great people around me.” Tazeem has also been taken on the pads by the legendary Floyd Mayweather Snr and the teenager has delivered boxing training to Wolverhampton Wanderers winger Adama Traore. To keep up to date with Tazeem’s pro journey, including news of his debut, 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).?




HEAVYWEIGHT FIGHTER SONNY CONTO HOPES TO SHATTER TRISKAIDEKAPHOBIA WHEN HE PUTS HIS UNDEFEATED RECORD ON THE LINE AND ENTERS THE BOXING RING AT PARX CASINO® ON FRIDAY, MAY 13

South Philly heavyweight boxer Sonny Conto (9-0, 7KOs) looks to shatter triskaidekaphobia when he puts his undefeated record on the line and steps into the ring for a six-round bout against former USA New England Champion Justin Rolfe (7-3-1, 5KOs), of Fairfield, ME, at Parx Casino® on Friday, May 13 at 7 p.m.

“The fans of Bucks County, Philadelphia, and New Jersey are passionate about their boxing, and we have been bombarded with fans contacting us asking when we are going to return to Parx Casino®. I’m excited to tell them – WE ARE BACK!” stated promoter, Joe Hand, Jr.

Tickets at $50, $75, and $125 are on sale NOW at https://tickets.parxcasino.com/tickets/390007, Hold My Ticket Call Center at (1-877-466-3404) or by calling 215-364-9000. Must be 21 or older to attend.

Daiyaan Butt (10-2, 5KOs), also of Philadelphia, PA, has two first round knockouts in his last four fights and looks to show his power in a six-round super lightweight bout.

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

Undefeated D’Angelo Fuentes (7-0, 4KOs), of Coconut Creek, FL, will have his hands full in a six-round featherweight bout as he tries to push his undefeated streak to eight.

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.

Making his debut on the card will be 2014 Pennsylvania Golden Gloves champion Karl Wylie out of Coatesville, PA.

For press credentials contact Bam McCloskey at Brittany@JoeHandPromotions.com.

ABOUT JOE HAND PROMOTIONS

Founded in 1971, Joe Hand Promotions is the nation’s oldest and largest television distributor of pay-per-view and closed circuit sports and entertainment events, such as the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), championship boxing, and concerts. JHP’s event consultants provide their marketing knowledge and promotional expertise to help commercial establishments grow their business through the use of live sports and entertainment programming. Additionally, JHP hosts 4-6 live boxing events per year in the Philadelphia area. These events have held sold-out crowds at various venues and arenas.

ABOUT PARX CASINO®

Parx Casino® is owned and operated by Greenwood Racing, Inc. and is the #1 revenue-generating casino property in Pennsylvania. Parx Casino® is conveniently located 20 minutes north of center city Philadelphia, I-95 exit 37 or PA Turnpike exit 351 (westbound), exit 352 (eastbound) on Street Road in Bensalem, Bucks County, with complimentary parking for over 5,000 cars. Parx features Xlounge, a luxury casino lounge, and over 200,000 square feet of gaming; 3,270 slot machines and 148 live table games; 40 poker tables; Parx Poker, a new custom-built private poker room; live racing and simulcast action. The Xcite Center at Parx Casino is a 1,500-seat live entertainment venue. Parx has an array of dining options to include Parxgrill, an upscale signature restaurant; Foodies quick service dining; Chickie’s & Pete’s Crab House and Sports Bar; Jax sports bar; Circle Bar; and Bambu Noodle House. In 2019, Parx launched sports betting and opened the massive year-round Liberty Bell Beer Garden gastropub to rave reviews. For more information on Parx Casino®, visit www.parxcasino.com.




CES MMA, CES Boxing host back-to-back events this weekend in Hartford

Hartford, CT (March 29) – Fifteen exciting bouts, two nights, one exciting weekend of combat sports at the Connecticut Convention Center.

CES MMA and CES Boxing invade Hartford this weekend for back-to-back events at the Convention Center, beginning this Friday with CES MMA 67 live on UFC FIGHT PASS® and concluding Saturday with a full day of boxing that features the amateur Jimmy Burchfield Invitational Classic VIII at 2 pm followed by a pro card at 7.

Tickets for both events are available online at CESFights.com. CES 67 begins Friday at 8 pm ET with play-by-play announcer Michael Parente (@MichaelParente); color commentator Joe Lauzon (@JoeLauzon), a 27-time UFC vet; and FUN 107 on-air personality and cageside correspondent Madelyn Levine (@maddieonair). Headlining is a five-round, all-Connecticut, world championship showdown between current CES MMA welterweight champion Billy Goff (6-2, 4 KOs) of Groton and Hartford’s Justin Sumpter (8-4, 2 KOs) for the vacant CES MMA World Middleweight Title.

The following night, East Hartford super lightweight Mykquan Williams (16-0-1, 7 KOs) makes his long-awaited homecoming in an eight-round showdown against New Jersey’s Tyrone Luckey (15-16-4, 11 KOs) and Springfield, MA, featherweight Joshua Orta (8-0, 4 KOs) puts his unbeaten record on the line against the dangerous Jayron Santiago (8-8-1, 5 KOs) of Bayamon, Puerto Rico in the six-round co-main event.

The 48-hour Convention Center showcase continues what has been a busy spring for the region’s No. 1 combat sports promotion. Goff, who steps in Friday on short notice after ex-UFC vet Eric Spicely suffered in an injury during training camp, recently won the vacant welterweight title earlier this month at CES 66 in Rhode Island and now jumps up a full weight class to challenge Sumpter, a two-time Bellator and UFC vet making his fifth appearance with CES. Sumpter aims for his first world title while Goff is attempting to join Matt Bessette as the only CES fighters to simultaneously hold two world titles in different weight classes.

Also fighting Friday, bantamweight Johnny Lopez (12-5, 6 KOs) battles Azjavkhlan Baatar (7-6, 4 KOs) of New Mexico and Springfield’s Pat Casey (8-4, 2 KOs) faces Ithaca, NY, vet Armus Guyton (5-2, 3 KOs) in a welterweight showdown.

Russian light heavyweight Yuri Panferov (1-0), who lives and trains in North Haven, faces pro debut Mus’Aub Baiyina of Rochester, NY, and unbeaten West Haven lightweight Eddy George (4-0, 4 KOs) puts his perfect record and knockout streak on the line against Emiliano Calderon (1-1, 1 KO). The main card also features longtime Bellator vet Mike Kimble (3-3, 2 KOs) making his long-awaited CES debut in a lightweight bout against Tristan Lindi (2-3, 2 KOs) of Medford, OR. Full fight card details are available online.

While Williams has fought at Foxwoods Resort Casino and Mohegan Sun Casino 12 times in his career, Saturday is his first in his hometown and his first overall since January of 2021. Luckey, a veteran of 35 fights, has won two of his last three and has bouts against top prospects Frank Martin, Bryan Flores, Jerry Perez, and Jamaine Ortiz on his resume.

In the co-main event, Orta faces one of his toughest tests to date. Santiago returns to New England following an upset victory in November over fellow New England featherweight Nathan Martinez, who entered the bout 7-1.

Springfield welterweight Jalen Renaud (7-0, 3 KOs) returns in six-round bout to face longtime upset specialist and Lancaster, PA, vet Evincii Dixon (10-28-2, 5 KOs), whose recent stretch includes wins over unbeaten Marcel Rivers and undefeated Detroit native Joseph Bonas. Dixon makes his fifth appearance with CES and first since 2019.

Also fighting Saturday, fast-rising super featherweight Isaiah Cruz (2-0, 1 KO) of Springfield faces New Jersey’s Tyriek Gainey (0-2) in a four-round bout and super middleweight Jahvel Joseph (5-0, 2 KOs) of the Bronx faces unbeaten Vero Beach, FL, native Zachary Albornoz (1-0) in a four-round special attraction. Undefeated Hartford bantamweight Angel Gonzalez (8-0, 6 KOs) returns in a six-round bout, his second appearance with the promotion and first since September.

For the latest on CES events and fighters, visit CESFights.com. For exclusive content, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @CESBoxing and @CESMMA and on Facebook at Facebook.com/CESBoxing or Facebook.com/CESMMA.

INFORMATION
CES MMA is a mixed martial arts promotional company based out of Providence, R.I., founded by legendary boxing promoter Jimmy Burchfield Sr. It promoted the first sanctioned professional mma event in the state of Rhode Island on Sept. 17, 2010 at Twin River Casino Hotel. Since its inception, CES MMA has been a gateway to the UFC developing the careers of UFC contenders Calvin Kattar, Rob Font, Charles Rosa, William Knight, Mike Rodriguez, Tony Gravely, Andre Soukhamthath and others. In October 2012, CES MMA promoted its first pay-per-view event at The Dunkin’ Donuts Center in Providence, featuring the professional MMA debut of former WWE superstar Dave Bautista, and recently signed a two-year extension to broadcast exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®.

CES Boxing is one of the top promotions in the northeast and one of the few to successfully promote both mixed martial arts and professional boxing. Launched in 1992 by longtime boxing judge Jimmy Burchfield Sr., the promotion is the only in professional boxing to boast two reigning WBC Youth world champions in lightweight Jamaine Ortiz and featherweight Irvin Gonzalez. CES Boxing recently teamed with UFC FIGHT PASS, the world’s No. 1 streaming platform for combat sports, to showcase its events to a worldwide audience, and worked as a promotional consultant for the Mike Tyson-Roy Jones Jr. pay-per-view event in November of 2020.

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 17,000 bouts from dozens of combat sports organizations, as well as every fight in UFC history. Fight fans can access 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.




SHOWTIME SPORTS® TO SURROUND SPENCE VS. UGAS PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS EVENT WITHBEST-IN-CLASS PREMIUM PROGRAMMING

NEW YORK – March 28, 2022 – SHOWTIME Sports is preparing two significant programs in support of one of this year’s biggest pay-per-view events.

The network will for the first time televise a special SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING headlined by WBA Welterweight Champion Radzhab Butaev and top contender Eimantas Stanionis in a battle of unbeatens taking place immediately before the four-fight Spence vs. Ugas SHOWTIME PPV® from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING 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.

Additionally, SHOWTIME Sports will premiere a new installment of the Emmy Award-winning series ALL ACCESS. The multi-part series premieres Saturday, April 2, at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME with episode two premiering Saturday, April 9, at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT in advance of Spence vs. Ugas on Saturday, April 16. Furthermore, ALL ACCESS Epilogue will premiere on SHOWTIME the following Saturday, April 23, and will showcase fight week in Dallas as well as all the action inside the ropes on fight night and the immediate aftermath.

“We are pulling out all the stops for the April 16 event, which is easily one of the biggest of the year. Delivering a special episode of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING to our subscribers before the four-fight pay-per-view card begins is something that has never been done in the history of this network. We are proud to break precedent,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “Adding high-stakes, compelling fights to an already strong undercard elevates what is sure to be a memorable night for boxing. Plus, a new installment of our signature ALL ACCESS series to chronicle the divergent paths of Spence and Ugas to reach this moment will be captivating drama. It’s an embarrassment of riches from top to bottom for the boxing audience.”

Tickets for the April 16 live event at AT&T Stadium are on sale now and can be purchased at SeatGeek.com, the Official Ticketing Provider of AT&T Stadium.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING LINEUP

The 28-year-old Butaev (14-0, 11 KOs) captured his WBA title with a dominating performance on SHOWTIME in October, as he battered top contender Jamal James on his way to a ninth-round stoppage victory. Butaev turned pro after approximately 400 amateur bouts in 2016 and reeled-off KOs in six of his first seven outings. Butaev is now trained by top coach Joel Diaz in Indio, Calif. His TKO victory over James gave Butaev victories inside of the distance in five of his last six fights.

“I’m feeling very prepared for this fight on April 16,” said Butaev. “Every time I step into the ring, I’m looking to give the fans an exciting fight. Knowing how Stanionis also loves to come forward and compete, this time, it’s a guarantee that there are going to be fireworks. We’re definitely both going to bring it in this fight. Make sure you don’t miss this one, because it’s going to be a brutal back-and-forth affair.”

Stanionis (13-0, 9 KOs) earned a series of attention-grabbing victories as he has climbed the ranks from prospect to contender, including a career-best 12-round decision over Thomas Dulorme in April 2021 on SHOWTIME. The 27-year-old former Olympian from Lithuania, who now lives and trains in California, most recently fought former champion Luis Collazo to a no-decision in August 2021 after an accidental clash of heads prematurely ended the action. Prior to going 12 rounds for the first time with Dulorme, Stanionis had stopped six of his previous eight opponents.

“I’m excited for this huge opportunity to show my skills in front of thousands of fans at AT&T Stadium,” said Stanionis. “Butaev is a strong opponent. I know that this is going to be a hard fight for both of us and that our styles are going to make this action-packed for as long as it lasts. My goal for 2022 is to become world champion. That’s been my dream since I was a child and now I’m very close to bringing the belt back home to Lithuania.”

A highly regarded prospect, Lee (24-0, 22 KOs) has won his last 15 fights by knockout, most recently dropping and stopping veteran contender Juan Heraldez on SHOWTIME in December 2021. Trained by his father Bobby, Lee fought four times in 2020 and three times in 2021 as he continued to pile up knockouts. He had a decorated amateur career with an estimated record of 196-5 and was the 2015 U.S. Junior National Champion, taking home the gold medal at 145 pounds.

“I think it is a great idea to have our fight lead into the SHOWTIME PPV,” said Lee. “What better way to show all the boxing fans out there some of the top young talent looking to become the next contenders and world champions in the sport.”

A native of Brooklyn, New York, Ochoa (21-2, 7 KOs) trains in Philadelphia with highly regarded trainer Stephen “Breadman” Edwards. The 28-year-old was unbeaten in his first 16 pro fights and bounced back from his first pro defeat to win five straight contests between 2017 and 2020. Ochoa returns to the ring after dropping a narrow, split decision to Argentine contender Juan Jose Velasco in February of 2021.

“I’m very ready and focused on this fight coming up on April 16,” said Ochoa. “I’m sure Lee will be ready too and that just makes me more motivated to be at my best. Trust me, this is a night boxing fans will not want to miss!”

ALL ACCESS: SPENCE VS. UGAS

ALL ACCESS: SPENCE VS. UGAS peels back the curtain to showcase how the two champions share one trait – resilience. Both fighters open up about their frantic and ultimately fruitful journeys that led them to this moment with Spence talking about his near-tragic automobile accident and eye injury that forced him to miss a career-defining opportunity against Manny Pacquiao, and Ugas depicting his harrowing journey from Cuba to the United States.

Filming is underway in Dallas, revealing a surprising lifestyle change Spence has made as he prepares for the fight with longtime trainer Derrick James. Filming in Las Vegas has also begun, where Ugas is in training camp under renowned coach Ismael Salas.

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ABOUT SPENCE VS. UGAS
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.

Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly owned subsidiary of Paramount, owns and operates the premium service SHOWTIME®, which features critically acclaimed original series, provocative documentaries, box-office hit films, comedy and music specials and hard-hitting sports. SHOWTIME is available as a stand-alone streaming service across all major streaming devices and Showtime.com, as well as via cable, DBS, telco and streaming video providers. SNI also operates the premium services THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ and FLIX®, as well as on demand versions of all three brands. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV®. For more information, go to www.SHO.com.

About AT&T Stadium:
AT&T Stadium is one of the largest, most technologically advanced entertainment venues in the world. Designed by HKS and built by Manhattan Construction, the $1.2 billion stadium features two monumental arches, the world’s largest HDTV video board cluster, an expansive retractable roof and the largest retractable end zone doors in the world. Features of the stadium include seating for 80,000 and expandability for up to 100,000, over 300 luxury suites, club seating on multiple levels and the Dallas Cowboys Pro Shop, open to the public year round. The stadium is also home to a world-class collection of contemporary art, made up of over 50 pieces from an international array of curated artists displayed on the walls and in the grand public spaces of the venue. In addition to being the Home of the Dallas Cowboys since opening in 2009, the stadium has hosted Super Bowl XLV, the 2010 NBA All Star Game, the 2014 NCAA Men’s Basketball Final Four, the 2015 College Football Playoff National Championship Game and the annual Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic. The venue has also played host to high school and college football, concerts, championship fights, international soccer matches, and other special events. For more information, go to www.attstadium.com.




Ebanie Bridges wins IBF Bantamweight World Championship of Maria Cecilia Roman in Leeds, England

New York, NY (March 25, 2022)–Ebanie Bridges won the IBF Bantamweight title with a 10-round unanimous decision over Maria Cecilia Roman.

The bout took place in front of a sold-out crowd at The First District Arena in Leeds, England.

Bridges, who is managed by Split-T Management under Brian Cohen and Team Empire Boxing, out worked and out hustled Roman on the inside as well as landing some good punches to the body. Bridges was effective with her uppercut and took the lead from the outset.

Roman tried to make a fight out of it, but Bridges showed her championship heart, and was able to be very effective down the stretch to claim her first world title.

Bridges landed 205 of 645 punches; Roman was 156 of 430.

Bridges, 117.3 lbs of New South Wales, AUS won by scores of 100-91 and 97-93 twice and is now 8-1. Roman, 116.4 lbs of San Juan, ARG was a five year-champion, who had made seven defenses and is now 16-6-1.

“I am feeling proud of myself, and everything that I sacrificed has been worth it. This belt means all of the sacrifice and training. I was so happy for that kind of fight. I hope the fight was entreating. Cecilia brought the fight. I am grateful to win the title in this great city of Leeds,” said Bridges,