LAS VEGAS, NV (February 16, 2022) – 24-year-old undefeated bantamweight prospect, Oswaldo Garcia Rojas (14-0-1, 11 KOs), has left his hometown of Cancun, Mexico to pursue his boxing dream. He arrived in Las Vegas and will now train with “Bones” Adams.

“I need to get the best possible work, sparring, and training I could get, and that is why I am now at Bones Adams Gym,” said Rojas. “I want to be a world champion, so to do that I had to go to the place of world champions, Las Vegas, Nevada. To be great, it means you must sacrifice, and I am willing to do the uncomfortable things to make my dream work.”

Rojas, a big puncher, is known for his tremendous power that carries from the first to the last round. He impressively has a knockout in the sixth round, something that many prospects don’t see early in their career.

“We’re getting him adjusted to the system him, Oswaldo is really excited to get going, and we’re working on some things,” said former two-time super bantamweight world champion and boxing trainer “Bones” Adams. “We want to get him ready for what is ahead, but also stay focused on getting better, day-by-day, because in boxing, it is easy to get distracted by bigger goals and lose sight of what needs to be done. We’re creating good habits in the gym right now and the hard work will show when he steps in the ring.”

“Having a coach who won a world title in the same division I want to win a world title in makes me listen to his every word,” continued Rojas. “I have a lot of respect for my team because they have accomplished a lot and my goal is to be a Mexican boxing legend and have great fights the fans remember.”

Rojas is currently in the gym training and awaiting a fight date.

LOS ANGELES (Feb. 16, 2022) – Two outstanding world-championship showdowns. Four of BELLATOR MMA’s best pound-for-pound fighters. One highly anticipated rematch. The promotion’s all-time greatest athlete striving to avenge a highlight-reel loss to the company’s homegrown superstar. A tournament final awarding a seven-figure jackpot to the victor.

BELLATOR’s fourth phenomenal fight card of 2022 promises to be one for the ages.

Fresh off a 117-second destruction of his upcoming opponent and claiming the $1 million bounty at the BELLATOR MMA Featherweight World Grand Prix Finale, unbeaten BELLATOR Featherweight World Titleholder A.J. McKee (18-0) hopes to take the next step toward becoming the sport’s greatest fighter as he battles former top pound-for-pound and two-division champion Patricio Pitbull (32-5) for the second time in less than nine months on Friday, April 15, at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT live on SHOWTIME.

In the co-feature of BELLATOR 277: McKee vs. Pitbull 2 at the SAP Center in San Jose, Calif., current 205-pound BELLATOR MMA World Champion Vadim Nemkov (15-2) will defend his title for the third time and aims to take home the $1 million prize three days before U.S. Tax Day when he squares off against the surging No. 1-ranked contender Corey Anderson (16-5)in the BELLATOR MMA Light Heavyweight World Grand Prix final.

Tickets for BELLATOR MMA 277: McKee vs. Pitbull 2 go on sale this Friday, Feb. 18 at both Ticketmaster.com and Bellator.com with a special presale starting the day prior.

Additionally, four preliminary bouts have been announced including a mouthwatering matchup between two highly ranked heavyweights as No. 5-ranked Tim Johnson (15-8) faces surging No. 6-ranked Tyrell Fortune (11-2, 1 NC) in a rematch from BELLATOR 239. Their first fight ended with Johnson securing a win that earned great consideration for the 2020 KO of the Year. The preliminary bouts will stream live three hours earlier at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on the BELLATOR MMA YouTube channel, SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and Pluto TV.

In their historic initial matchup at the Forum in Inglewood, Calif., McKee stunned Pitbull by landing a punishing left leg kick to the head at 1:40 of the opening stanza at BELLATOR MMA 263 on July 31, 2021. The champion then continued the onslaught by unleashing a series of brutal unanswered head shots that floored the Brazilian legend.

Moments later as McKee prematurely raised his arms in celebration, Pitbull rose from the depths of defeat only to be greeted by a fighter hell bent on stealing his crown and claiming the $1 million prize. With the 25-time BELLATOR MMA veteran backed up against the fence, MMA’s brightest young brawler locked in a guillotine choke. With Pitbull seeming to lose consciousness, referee Mike Beltran halted matters at 1:57 of the opening frame.

“Hosting the world’s best mixed martial artists in the great city of San Jose is something that has been important to me during my career as a fight promoter and I’m happy to continue that with our card on April 15,” BELLATOR President Scott Coker said. “The rematch between A.J. McKee and Patricio Pitbull for the featherweight title, as well as our Light Heavyweight World Grand Prix Final featuring Vadim Nemkov against Corey Anderson are two fights that could headline any event on their own, but we are bringing both to SAP Center at San Jose on the same night to show the fans here that we truly value their support throughout the years.”

A native of Long Beach, Calif., BELLATOR’s top-rated pound-for-pound fighter has exceeded the lofty expectations placed on him since his professional debut three days following his 20^th birthday. Armed with six knockouts and seven submissions, the Team Bodyshop product, who will turn 27 eight days before his rematch against Pitbull, has shown a knack for securing lightning-fast finishes with 10 coming in the first round. “Mercenary” has earned dominant victories over every fighter who has opposed him, including former World Champions Pitbull, Pat Curran, and Darrion Caldwell, who McKee submitted with a rare-modified neck crank that was later dubbed the “McKee-otine.” The winner of the 2020 Submission of the Year Award for his 71-second annihilation of Caldwell has fought a total of 33 rounds across 18 career contests (1.8 rounds per bout), while logging less than 41 total minutes in the BELLATOR cage since turning pro in August 2012.

One half of the vaunted Pitbull Brothers duo, Patricio has long been considered the crown jewel of BELLATOR MMA, where he currently sits at No. 3 in the BELLATOR MMA men’s pound-for-pound rankings. Holding a remarkable 32-5 record with wins over elite competition, including the likes of former World Champions Pat Curran, Juan Archuleta, and Daniel Straus (twice). In 2019, the 34-year-old Brazilian captured the BELLATOR Lightweight World Championship from Michael Chandler, becoming only the second BELLATOR athlete to hold two titles simultaneously. With 23 finishes in 37 professional fights, Pitbull has shown repeatedly that he possesses the well-rounded skillset required to reign over multiple weight classes.

Currently BELLATOR MMA’s second-ranked pound-for-pound fighter, Nemkov captured the BELLATOR MMA light heavyweight crown by defeating Ryan Bader via second-round TKO at BELLATOR MMA 244 in August 2020.  Riding a nine-fight winning streak dating back to June 2016, the ferocious 29-year-old sports seven first-round knockouts, with two in the initial minute of action. After successfully defending his light heavyweight belt by earning a tough unanimous decision over Phil Davis, the pride of Belgorod, Russia and Fedor Emelianenko protégé scored a fourth-round submission of late replacement Julius Anglickas in the semifinals of the BELLATOR Light Heavyweight World Grand Prix during his last outing on Oct. 16, 2021.

Anderson, of Robbinsville, N.J., has ascended to the top of the BELLATOR 205-pound rankings by vanquishing seven of his past eight opponents, including a third-round stoppage of Dovletdzhan Yagshimuradov at BELLATOR MMA 257 on April 16, 2021. Exactly six months later at BELLATOR MMA 268, the Rockford, Ill., native walked into the cage to the spellbinding sounds of The Doors’ “Five to One,” and took the song title literally by knocking out Arizona State University wrestling legend Ryan Bader in 51 seconds in front of Bader’s hometown crowd at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, Ariz.  In his first promotional appearance, “Overtime” registered a second-round TKO over Dutch kickboxing legend Melvin Manhoef at BELLATOR MMA 251 in November 2020. Prior to joining BELLATOR, Anderson tallied a 10-5 record with a rival promotion, winning “The Ultimate Fighter 19” tournament in 2014, and boasting impressive wins over Glover Teixeira, Jan B?achowicz and Johnny Walker, among others.

Additional bouts will be announced soon.

BELLATOR 277: McKEE VS. PITBULL 2 MAIN CARD:

Friday, April 15 – live on SHOWTIME

10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT 

Featherweight World Championship: C–A.J. McKee (18-0) vs. No. 1-Patricio Pitbull (15-5)

 Light Heavyweight World Grand Prix Final: C-Vadim Nemkov (15-2) vs. No. 1-Corey Anderson (16-5)

PRELIMINARY CARD: 

BELLATOR MMA YouTube channel | SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel | Pluto TV

7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT

Heavyweight Bout: No. 5-Tim Johnson (15-8) vs. No. 6-Tyrell Fortune (11-2, 1 NC)

Welterweight Bout: No. 10-Kyle Crutchmer (8-1) vs. Michael Lombardo (12-2, 1 NC)

Welterweight Bout: Shane Keefe (2-0) vs. Tyson Miller (2-0)

140-Pound Contract Weight Bout: Gaston Bolanos (5-3) vs. Cass Bell (5-2)

*Card subject to change.

Please visit Bellator.com for additional information.

Apply for BELLATOR media credentials

RSVP for BELLATOR virtual media availabilities

****

Updated schedule of BELLATOR events

Sat., Feb. 19 // BELLATOR 274: Gracie vs. Storley // Mohegan Sun Arena // Uncasville, Conn.

Fri. Feb. 25 // BELLATOR 275: Mousasi vs. Vanderford // 3Arena // Dublin, Ireland

Fri. Mar. 12 // BELLATOR 276: Borics vs. Burnell // The Family Arena // St. Louis, Mo.

Fri. Apr. 15 // BELLATOR 277: McKee vs. Pitbull 2/Nemkov vs. Anderson // SAP Center // San Jose, Calif.

Fri. May 6 // BELLATOR PARIS: Bader vs. Kongo 2 // Accor Arena // Paris, FRA

Fri. May 13 // BELLATOR LONDON: Amosov vs. MVP // The OVO Arena Wembley // London

About BELLATOR

BELLATOR MMA is a leading global mixed martial arts organization featuring many of the best fighters in the world. Under the direction of veteran fight promoter Scott Coker, BELLATOR events take place in major cities worldwide and can be seen on television in over 160 countries to an available audience of over one billion people. In the United States, BELLATOR can be seen on SHOWTIME. BELLATOR is comprised of an executive team that includes top industry professionals in television production, live event orchestration, fighter development/relations, venue procurement, sponsorship creation/development, international licensing, marketing, advertising, publicity, and commission relations. BELLATOR is based in Hollywood, Calif. and owned by entertainment giant ViacomCBS, home to the world’s premier entertainment brands that connect with audiences through compelling content across television, motion picture, online and mobile platforms.

About SHOWTIME

Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly owned subsidiary of ViacomCBS Inc., owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ and FLIX®, and also offers SHOWTIME ON DEMAND®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ ON DEMAND and FLIX ON DEMAND®, and the network’s authentication service SHOWTIME ANYTIME®. Showtime Digital Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of SNI, operates the stand-alone streaming service SHOWTIME®. SHOWTIME is currently available to subscribers via cable, DBS, and telco providers, and as a stand-alone streaming service through Amazon, Apple®, Google, LG Smart TVs, Oculus Go, Roku®, Samsung Smart TVs, Xbox One and PlayStation®4. Consumers can also subscribe to SHOWTIME via Amazon’s Prime Video Channels, Apple TV Channels, AT&T TV Now, FuboTV, Hulu, The Roku Channel, Sling TV, and YouTube TV. Viewers can also watch on computers at Showtime.com. 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. 

FRANK WARREN AND Queensberry are delighted to announce the signing of professional featherweight and former Team GB graduate Raven Chapman.

Currently 2-0 (1 KO), Raven, known as ‘The Omen’, joined the professional ranks in September 2021 following a productive amateur career that yielded two National titles, as well as recognition by both Team England and GB Boxing.

Due to the delay following the outbreak of Covid-19, the 28-year-old declined the opportunity to participate in the Olympics and opted to set the ball rolling on a new venture in the paid ranks under the guidance of manager Stefy Bull.

Raven insists she is a far more formidable proposition in a professional ring.

“My style was never the amateur GB style, and as much as I tried to adapt it, it just wasn’t natural for me,” explained the featherweight. “Most of my success was when I was boxing how I box, which funnily enough is much more like the pro style. That is why I think it has been quite a good transition for me because I feel more natural, I like to plant my feet and throw big shots, but I am busy and aggressive as well, and I like to move my head a lot too.

“I have loved the pro game so far, it felt like it was where I was meant to be. I’ve fought on a couple of big platforms and I know it is what I want,” added Raven, who believes BT Sport and picking up the baton from the retired Nicola Adams is the place to be.

“Going with Frank and BT was such a big pull for me because I didn’t want to be following in someone’s footsteps. Like Terri (Harper) and being in her shadow, which could have happened because she is my team mate. But I want to pave my own way, do my own thing and bring more women’s boxing to Queensberry and BT.

“More people are watching women’s boxing now and actually realise that we can box, we can fight, it is entertaining and people want to see it. I am looking forward to showing the fans that we are good to watch and hopefully we can bring in some new fans. We are here to stay, we want to make a statement, I definitely want to make a statement. I want to rule the featherweights and I think that with Queensberry I have a very good platform and great opportunities to get there.”

Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren added: “I am thrilled to add Raven to the Queensberry ranks and add an exciting dimension to our shows on BT Sport that has been missing since Nicola’s retirement as a current world champion.

“Raven is a top prospect who will make rapid strides in the sport and her moves will be deservedly captured by our broadcast partners BT Sport. Women’s boxing is ever-increasing in terms of depth of quality and this was always key to long-term success.

“I am looking forward to the journey with Raven and I am confident she will reach the very top.”

Images are free to use, please credit: Queensberry Promotions.

Philadelphia (February 16, 2022)–Championship boxing comes to Live! Event Center at Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia as undefeated rising star Christian Tapia takes on Luis Lebron in a 10-round contest for the WBC Super Featherweight title on Saturday night, March 12th.

The card is promoted by Hard Hitting Promotions.

Tapia of Coamo, Puerto Rico, has an impressive record of 13-0 with 12 knockouts. The 27 year-old is a five year veteran who has stopped his last eight adversaries. On July 31, 2021, Tapia won the NABA Super Featherweight title with a 2nd round demolition over former world-ranked contender Mason Menard (36-5). In his last bout, Tapia took out previously undefeated and highly regarded Iron Alvarez (14-0) in the 10th and final round on December 4, 2021 in Atlantic City, New Jersey. In that fight, Tapia dominated the previously undefeated Alvarez, as he was up on all cards with Alvarez barely winning a round, before Tapia ended the fight in the 10th.

Lebron of San Juan, Puerto Rico is 18-2-1 with 11 knockouts. The 28 year-old Lebron is a nine-year veteran has wins over Glenford Nickey (2-0-1), Pedro Marquez Medina (1-0), Joshua Santos (2-0-1), Manuel Botis (23-0-1), Alan Guzman (19-3), Luis Ruiz (9-1) and his last bout when he stopped Frank Diaz (9-0) in the 7th round to win the WBA Fedecento Super Featherweight title on November 20, 2021 in Miami, Florida.

Also seeing action will be super lightweight Brandon Pizarro (16-1, 9 KOs) of Philadelphia; welterweight Alex Perez (18-3, 10 KOs) of Newark, NJ; welterweight Dezmond Lucas (5-0, 2 KOs) of Bronx, NY; welterweight Tahmir Smalls (6-0, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia; welterweight Jan Carlos Rivera (4-1, 4 KOs) of Philadelphia; Pro debuting bantamweight Jeffrey Villanueva of Reading, PA and junior welterweight Anthony Ramirez of Connecticut.

Opponents will be named shortly

Ticket Pre-sale on Feb 17th with full on-sale on Feb 18th.

Tickets are on sale for $150, $100, $75 and $60 and can be purchased at
https://www.axs.com/events/426183/hard-hitting-boxing-tickets?skin=livecasinohotelphiladephia

Today’s scheduled World Boxing Council (WBC) purse bid has been avoided as Groupe Yvon Michel (GYM) announces an agreement has been reached with Titov Promotions, which promotes undefeated mandatory challenger Evgeny Romanov (16-0, 11 KOs), of Russia, for WBC Bridgerweight World Champion Oscar “Kaboom” Rivas’ first title defense.

Under this agreement, GYM obtained the rights to promote Rivas’ first WBC defense. “We are very happy with this outcome,” GYM President Yvon Michel said. “I would like to thank Mr. Alex Titov for his co-operation. We intend to hold this world championship in June, in Montreal or possibly in Colombia, where discussions are currently taking place. It was important for us that Oscar defends his crown in a familiar environment.”

Trained by Marc Ramsey, Rivas captured the WBC World title last October 22, winning a unanimous decision over Ryan Rozicki (13-1, 13 KOs) at the Olympia in Montreal.

Colombia-native Rivas, who represented his country at the 2008 Olympics, became the first WBC World Champion in the history of the Bridgerweight Division. Romanov, for his part, became the mandatory contender by virtue of his 12-round dominance over compatriot Dmitry Kudryashov (24-5, 23 KOs) last May in Khimki, Russia. Romanov had an excellent amateur career, even registering a knockout victory over Deontay Wilder, the future WBC World Heavyweight Champion, in an international tournament.

“I am happy to be able to defend my WBC bridgerweight belt in familiar terrain and quickly,” Rivas commented. “I intend to keep this belt for a long time. In addition, whether my promoter GYM has obtained the rights to promote in my adopted city, Montreal, or in my native country, Colombia, I feel confident and surrounded by the best. It helps me stay focused on my goals.”

ABOUT THE YVON MICHEL GROUP (GYM): Groupe Yvon Michel is a professional boxing promotion organization, founded in 2004 by Yvon Michel, Alexandra Croft and Bernard Barré, all still active within the company, which is the most prolific organization in the history of professional boxing in Canada. Since its founding GYM has organized 160 events in Quebec, participated in 37 international galas outside of Quebec. Seven boxers became world champions: Joachim Alcine, Jean Pascal, Adonis Stevenson, Artur Beterbiev, Eleider Alvarez, Marie-Eve Dicaire and Oscar Rivas. Seventeen of the organization’s boxers have fought in 51 world championship bouts with an excellent record of 27 wins, 22 losses and 2 draws. During this period major American television networks were more active than ever in coming to Quebec to broadcast GYM’s most important events. On 35 occasions major American networks presented a GYM event, an exceptional showcase of Quebec knowledge including HBO (8), Showtime (7), ESPN2 (10), Wealth TV (4), Spike TV (2), ESPN (3), CBS (1) and NBC Sports (1).

Facebook: @groupeyvonmichel

Instagram: @groupeyvonmichel

Twitter: @yvonmichelGYM

GroupeYM

BOSTON (February 15, 2022) – There are few family names in boxing, especially in New England, as universally revered as Hagler and Roach.

They are part of boxing royalty.

There is a new connection as James Hagler, Jr., the grandson of the late Hall of Famer Marvelous Marvin Hagler, has signed an exclusive managerial contract with Fighter Locker, owned and operated by the nephew of Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach, Boston-based Ryan Roach.

The plan is for Roach to have Hagler fight in Massachusetts, ideally in Brockton, the City of Champions in which Hagler as well as another Hall of Famer, Rocky Marciano, fought out of during their professional careers.

“I was looking for a manager and read about Ryan,” Hagler said. “I looked him up online, talked with him, and met him last weekend for the first time. He is not a greedy person. By far, he offered me the best deal I have ever received. He really wants to help me. Ryan’s a cool dude. I feel good about signing with him.

“Fighting someday in Brockton and Boston means a lot to me, because of my grandfather’s background, and that’s one of the reasons I signed with Ryan. My mother and father are from that area, and I still have a lot of family living on both sides living there. I’ll be the third member of the Hagler family to fight in New England, joining my grandfather and uncle (Robbie Simms).”?

Hagler and Roach.jpg
(L-R) – Ryan Roach & James Hagler, Jr.

“I’m excited to be managing James,” Roach commented. “Right away, I was interested in a fighter with the Hagler name. I spoke with James and he’s good kid who is all in. He wants to prove himself on his own and I get that, because I want to make it on my own terms, not my last name.

“We’re excited to get him fighting in New England. We’re going to do great things together. We plan on having him fight in Brockton, hopefully this summer, to bring boxing back to Brockton.”

The 31-year-old Hagler, who fights out of Atlanta, didn’t start boxing until he was 24. Why did he start so late?

“My grandfather didn’t want any of us (in the Hagler family) to box,” James explained. “I wanted to be a boxer since I was 3 or 4. He didn’t want anybody in his family to go through what he did in the Sugar Ray Leonard fight. My father (a boxing promoter in Atlanta) was an amateur boxer who fought in the Olympic Trials. He stopped boxing because my grandfather wouldn’t watch him fight. My father didn’t want to continue fighting.

“There’s a lot of pressure on me fighting because people expect me to be like my grandfather or want me to live up to the Hagler name. I feel good following in my grandfather’s footsteps. When guys fight me, it’s like their championship fight, because they want to say they beat a Hagler for bragging rights. I know that they will always have their best fight against me.”

James (2-1, 1 KO) had a relatively brief amateur career, fighting in Alabama and Georgia, and the southpaw made his pro debut December 14, 2019, in Ohio, when he stopped Michael Widmer in round one. He’s only had two fights since, winning one and losing the other, the latest this past November.

Hagler action.jpg
James Hagler, Jr. in action

Hagler will fight as a super middleweight for now, but he intends to campaign as a middleweight in the same division his legendary grandfather owned for so many years. He does have a dream fight in mind, saying, “I met Muhammad Ali’s grandson (Nico Walsh). I’d love to fight him someday.”

Fighter Locker’s growing stable of gifted boxers also includes California super flyweight Rocco “So Cal Kid” Santomauro (21-1, 6 KOs), New York’s ABF American West super lightweight Ray Jay “The Destroyer” Bermudez (16-0, 11 KOs), Connecticut’s ABF USA super welterweight Jimmy “Quiet Storm” Williams (18-5-2, 6 KOs), Colorado’s ABF American West super middleweight champion “The Amazing” Shawn McCalman (10-0, 6 KOs), Massachusetts super lightweight Adrian “Tonka” Sosa (12-0, 9 KOs), Florida super bantamweight Daniel “The Dedication” Bailey, Jr. (10-0, 5 KOs), Massachusetts featherweight Troy Anderson, Jr. (4-0, 2 KOs), 2-time Brazilian Olympian & 2016 Olympic silver medalist Yuberjen Martinez, Brazilian Olympian Jorge Vivas, 2-time Dominican Olympian, lightweight Leonel de los Santos (5-0, 5 KOs), Dominican cruiserweight Roki “Rocky” Berroa (2-0, 1 KO), Dominican super welterweight Juan Solano Santos (1-0, 1 KO), Dominican featherweight Orlando Perez Zapata (10-0, 8 KOs), Dominican lightweight Isaelin Florian Henriguez (8-1, 4 KOs), Florida light heavyweight Robert Daniels, Jr. (6-0, 5 KOs), Irish light heavyweight Tommy “The Kid” O’Toole (3-0, 2 KOs), Texas super lightweight Miranda “La Alacrana” Reyes (5-1-1, 2 KOs), Massachusetts super featherweight Alex Rivera (3-0, 2 KOs), Kansas brothers, welterweight Marcus (3-0, 3 KOs) and super lightweight Marcell (1-0), and Utah brothers, ABF American West lightweight champion Ignacio Chairez (9-0-1, 5 KOs) and lightweight Gabriel Chairez (4-0-1, 2 KOs).

INFORMATION:

WEBSITE: fighterlocker.com, punch4parkinsons.com

FACEBOOK: /fighterlocker, /jameshaglerjr

TWITTER: @RoachRyan

INSTAGRAM: @RyanRoach82, @JamesHaglerJr

ABOUT FIGHTER LOCKER: Established in 2019, Fighter Locker is a comprehensive sports agency that manages professional boxers. Fighter Locker also helps to brand boxers by finding their voice with a 100-percent customized service. Fighter Locker does not really believe in working models. It believes in partnership optimization models in motion.

Fighter Locker uses four creative steps because it believes in “the foundation is everything”: 1. wisely conceived, 2. creatively restrained, 3. Proudly judged, 4. sharply targeted.

(Feb. 15, 2022) — Three former world champions highlight an international fight marathon this Saturday, Feb. 19, live and exclusively on ESPN+. It begins with Breakfast and Boxing from RCC Boxing Academy in Yekaterinburg, Russia, as Zaur Abdullaev defends his WBC Silver lightweight belt in a 12-rounder against three-weight world champion Jorge Linares.

Linares-Abdullaev fight action begins at 9:30 a.m. ET/6:30 a.m. PT, which precedes the highly anticipated grudge match between former world champions Amir Khan and Kell Brook. Coverage of Khan-Brook from AO Arena in Manchester, England, starts at 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT and includes the vacant WBO female junior middleweight world title bout between Natasha Jonas (10-2-1, 7 KOs) and Chris Namus (25-6, 8 KOs), English super middleweight champion Charlie Schofield (17-1, 1 KO) defending his belt in 10-rounder versus Germaine Brown (11-0, 3 KOs), and the heavyweight professional debut of British Olympic bronze medalist Frazer Clarke.

Linares (47-6, 29 KOs) has been a professional for nearly 20 years, winning world titles at featherweight, junior lightweight and lightweight. During his lightweight run, he’s defeated the likes of Anthony Crolla and Kevin Mitchell while giving pound-for-pound great Vasiliy Lomachenko a stern test before being knocked out in the 10^th round of their May 2018 matchup. Linares is coming off last May’s competitive decision defeat to rising star Devin Haney. Abdullaev (14-1, 8 KOs), who has won three fights since a TKO loss to Haney, earned the WBC Silver title last September with a unanimous decision over former world champion Dejan Zlaticanin.

ESPN+-streamed undercard action from Russia includes a 12-round WBA 130-pound title eliminator between Mark Uranov (20-2-1, 10 KOs) and Angel Rodriguez (19-1, 10 KOs), and Russian junior welterweight standout Ivan Kozlovsky (4-0, 2 KOs) in a 10-round test against Zoravor Petrosian (12-1, 5 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. 

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).

WARWICK, RI (February 15) – Wilson Mascarenhas (@illwill_) can hardly sleep these days. There’s a nervous energy as he prepares for the next big step in his professional boxing career this Saturday at the Crowne Plaza Hotel.

Mascarenhas, a native of Portugal who has lived in New Bedford, MA, since the age of 12, genuinely loves what he does in and out of the ring, so it’s understandable why one of boxing’s busiest fighters has a hard time settling down at night.

Fighting for the first time since he scored his first career knockout win in June, Mascarenhas (4-1, 1 KO) steps up to face Virginia southpaw Akeem Jackson (5-4, 5 KOs) (@action2xs) in the first six-round fight of his career Saturday at “Rhode Wars,” CES Boxing’s 2022 season opener.

“I’m excited,” said the 27-year-old super lightweight prospect. “I’m stepping up and getting out of my comfort zone. It’s an opportunity to give people more of what they want to see. I can’t wait to showcase my skills.”

One of New England’s fastest-rising stars – and, perhaps, most popular fighters – Mascarenhas keeps busy in his day job as a behavioral health case manager working with New Bedford youth from the elementary school level all the way through college to help them choose the right path in life. Right now, his primary focus is high school students; it’s a sense of pride for Mascarenhas to provide them with the guidance he didn’t have growing up.

“That definitely fuels my tank,” Mascarenhas said. “When I was younger, I was kind of all over the place trying to figure out my purpose. I didn’t have much of a father figure to lean on in life. I saw a lot of things growing up that I knew I didn’t want to go through. I wanted to take a different route. And I want the same for the students I mentor.”

Working with youth wasn’t always on Mascarenhas’ radar. At Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School, he played several sports – including soccer, track, and wrestling, and also learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu – while studying carpentry. Instead of entering the carpenters’ union after high school, he decided to continue to his education at Bristol Community College, where he briefly considered pursuing a career in sports medicine. Behavioral health eventually became Mascarenhas’ preferred path when he realized he could use his blossoming career in the ring to inspire others to chase their own dreams.

“I like what I do inside the ring and outside the ring,” Mascarenhas said. “I’m living my dream both ways.”

Whether in the ring or out in the field visiting schools, Mascarenhas’ energy is contagious. In just a short time, he’s become one of the region’s biggest draws, consistently bringing huge crowds wherever he fights. Back in June, while fighting outdoors under the bright, sweltering sun, Mascarenhas leaned on that support from his fans to get him over the hump midway through his battle with Connecticut’s Geoffrey Then. The end result was a sensational, third-round knockout win, the first stoppage of his career and his fourth consecutive win overall.

“As the heat started getting to me, I thought to myself, ‘This is what you prepared yourself for. This is what you signed up for.’ I knew I had to dig deeper,” Mascarenhas said. “I knew I had more in the tank. Having the crowd and the support behind me really boosted me and I was able to turn it up another notch. I knew I had it in me.”

While Mascarenhas has enjoyed nothing but success of late, his career got off to an inauspicious start in February of 2018 when he lost his debut to Miguel Ortiz of Springfield by unanimous decision. Mascarenhas fought hard and showed progress toward the finish, but lost every round on the scorecards. A setback like that can derail a fighter mentally, but losing actually Mascarenhas focus even harder. The possibility of dropping another fight no longer crosses his mind. Winning is the only option, and he’s continued to get better with each fight.

“I’m glad I took a fight like that in my first fight. It brought something out of me,” Mascarenhas said. “That’s something a lot of up-and-coming fighters won’t go through until they reach maybe their 10th fight, but I’m glad I experienced it early. I experienced defeat and didn’t like it one bit, so every time I get a fight now I have a different type of purpose.

“I don’t want to lose again. My hunger is different, my training is different, my self-drive is different – it brought a different type of ‘Ill Will’ out of me.”

Mascarenhas didn’t come this far to quit. There’s so much riding on each fight, whether it’s his own chase for championship glory, or the pressure being a positive role model for the students he mentors. Although he tasted defeat early in his career, Mascarenhas is now a proven winner both in and out of the ring. He’s promising an even stronger, more determined version of himself this Saturday as the quest for greatness continues.

“All of my opponents have been tough in their own way. It brings a different type of dog out of me,” Mascarenhas said. “I can’t wait for the 19th to see what this opponent brings out of me.”

Visit CESFights.com for more information. Updates on CES Boxing can also be found on Facebook in addition to Instagram and Twitter by following @CESBoxing.

INFORMATION

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.

The Crowne Plaza Hotel Providence-Warwick is the first choice of those seeking the best in accommodations, convenience, service and sophistication in Rhode Island. A nine-time winner of the Intercontinental Hotel Group’s Torchbearer Award, one of the most prestigious accolades in the hotel industry, the Crowne Plaza Hotel has 266 guestrooms and 45,000 square feet of meeting space. Whether you’re a business traveler seeking respite from a long flight, a family on vacation visiting nearby Newport, a trade association holding its annual convention, or a young couple planning a wedding, the Crowne Plaza is ready to satisfy your every need. Located 10 minutes from downtown Providence and two miles from T.F. Green Airport on a spacious landscaped 17-acre site featuring abundant, free parking, the Crowne Plaza Hotel is prepared to treat you like royalty.

Schenectady, NY (February 15, 2022) – For the first time since September of 2017, professional boxing returns to Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady on Saturday, April 9, 2022. Presented by Star Boxing®, the action-packed seven card fight night includes an epic battle for the WBC Continental Americas & NABA Gold Cruiserweight Title featuring Italy’s Simone Federici (18-2-1 8KO’s) and Ukraine native Lyubomyr Pinchuk (14-2-1 8KO’s).

Tickets go on sale Tuesday, February 15 at 10 a.m. Tickets start at $50 and will be available NOW at RiversCasino.com/Schenectady. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the fights start at 8 p.m.

“We couldn’t be more excited to bring Capital Region fight fans what’s sure to be an unforgettable night of boxing action,” said Rivers Casino & Resort General Manager Rick Richards. “Star Boxing always puts on a spectacular show, with an amazing lineup of fighters, and this is a going to be a night fight fans will not want to miss.”

In addition to the Federici vs. Pinchuk Cruiserweight title fight, the fight nights undercard is packed with a stellar lineup. It includes a 6-round Light Heavyweight repeat battle between Dublin, Ireland’s own Tony Browne (5-1 1KO) and battle tested Italian, Matteo Deiana; an 8-round Super Lightweight bout featuring Omar “The Beast” Bordoy Jr. (11-1 3KO’s) and Victor Rabei (11-0 4KO’s); and more non-stop action with undefeated Irish Super Lightweight Ryan O’Rourke (8-0 1KO), Liverpool New York Super Lightweight prospect Bryce Mills (7-1 4KO’s), Super Welterweight prospect Wendy Toussaint (12-1 5KO’s) and welterweight prospect and son of boxing legend Roberto Duran, Robert Duran Jr. (9-1 7KO’s).

“We are thrilled to bring professional boxing to Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady on April 9,” said Star Boxing President and CEO Joe DeGuardia. “Star Boxing brings action packed, fan friendly fights from the opening bell. Be sure to join us and experience a terrific event!”

Fighter bios and photos available by request.

The Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady Event Center is just steps away from the casino gaming floor and The Landing Hotel. For more details about upcoming entertainment, and to make reservations at The Landing Hotel, please visit RiversCasino.com/Schenectady.
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

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.

FIGHT NIGHT TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE!
BUY TICKETS HERE!
TICKETS START AT JUST $50
FIGHT NIGHT: SATURDAY, APRIL 9 AT RIVERS CASINO SCHENECTADY

ROCKIN’ FIGHTS ARCHIVES:
Rockin’ Fights 38: Cletus Seldin vs Luis Flores NABA Title Bout
CLETUS “THE HEBREW HAMMER” SELDIN returned to the Paramount at “Rockin Fights” 38 to face off with late replacement LUIS FLORES in a WAR for the NABA Super Lightweight Title
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

PLANT CITY, Florida (Feb. 15, 2022): ProBox Promotions will host its first event of the year as Kanat “QazaQ” Islam (28-0, 22 KOs), the two-time Olympian and 160-pound contender, faces his toughest test to date against former world title challenger Jimmy “Kilrain” Kelly (25-2, 10 KOs) in a 10-round battle for the WBO Global Middleweight Championship. The event will take place on Friday, Feb. 25 at Whitesands Events Center in Plant City, Florida.

Details regarding streaming information will be announced shortly.

Tickets for Islam vs. Kelly are on sale now and are priced at $60, $75, $100, $150, $200 and $250, excluding applicable services charges. Tickets are available for purchase at www.EventBrite.com or by clicking here.

Islam, a 37-year-old athlete who was born in China and is of Kazakh nationality, is a two-time Olympian who captured a bronze medal for his country of origin in the 2008 Games in Beijing. He is a fierce puncher with a 79% knockout ratio who pummeled his way through the junior middleweight ranks and captured various regional titles before defeating Patrick Allotey and handing Brandon “Bad Boy” Cook his first pro loss. Islam entered the middleweight scene with a win over ex world title challenger Walter “The Executioner” Kautondokwa, then scored a win over Jeyson “Verdugo” Minda in his last outing. Islam is currently ranked at #4 by the WBO. With a win over Kelly, Islam stakes his claim for a shot at a world title.

Kelly is a former world title challenger who, like Islam, has boxed professionally for about 10 years. The native of Wythenshawe, Lancashire, United Kingdom defeated some of the toughest contenders of his home country before challenging for his first world title against Liam “Beefy” Smith in an action-packed battle. Although he lost, the 29-year-old regained his stature in the division by scoring seven victories in a row before coming up short against Irish-born contender Dennis “Hurricane” Hogan in a tough fight. Now at 160 pounds, Kelly plans to establish himself as a threat within the division’s rankings.

In the co-main event, Mexican warrior Jose Miguel Borrego (19-3, 16 KOs) faces undefeated “Pistol” Pete Dobson (14-0, 9 KOs) of the Bronx, New York in a 10-round super welterweight fight.

Borrego is an experienced southpaw who has come to be known for his aggressive style. The 23-year-old faces a tough challenge against the 31-year-old Dobson, an intelligent boxer who has been on big stages, such as the Pacquiao vs. Thurman undercard in 2019. Both men promise to deliver fireworks in battle that looks to steal the show on Feb. 25.

Additional undercard information will be announced shortly.

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Islam vs. Kelly is a 10-round fight presented by ProBox Promotions for the WBO Global Middleweight Championship. The event will take place on Friday, Feb. 25 at Whitesands Events Center in Plant City, Florida. Streaming details for the event will be announced shortly.

About ProBox Promotions
ProBox Promotions is a Florida-based company founded by entrepreneur Garry Jonas out of a desire to incorporate his love of boxing and business marketing to develop a revolutionary way to promote the sport. The company boasts an impressive stable of fighters that includes Erickson Lubin, Mark Reyes Jr., Jose Miguel Borrego and more.

LAS VEGAS – February 14, 2022 – Undefeated rising star Chris “Primetime” Colbert will now square off against unbeaten Dominican Olympian Hector Luis Garcia in a 12-round WBA Super Featherweight World Title Eliminator headlining live on SHOWTIME Saturday, February 26 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.

The southpaw Garcia replaces WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Roger Gutierrez, who was forced to withdraw after a positive COVID-19 test.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast kicks off at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will feature another unbeaten young phenom in the co-main event. Gary Antuanne Russell, a 2016 U.S. Olympian, faces former world champion Viktor Postol in a 10-round super lightweight bout, while IBF Junior Bantamweight World Champion Jerwin Ancajas defends his title against unbeaten Argentine Fernando Martinez in the televised opener of the loaded tripleheader.

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

Representing his native Brooklyn, N.Y., Colbert (16-0, 6 KOs) has quickly shot up the 130-pound rankings, taking on high-level competition in his first 16 pro fights. Already established as a fighter with dazzling boxing skills, Colbert showcased his ability to fight toe-to-toe with an 11th-round stoppage of Jaime Arboleda in December 2020 before most recently besting Tugstsogt Nyambayar in July 2021. The 25-year-old turned pro in 2015 and defeated three unbeaten fighters in his first eight contests. Prior to the Arboleda fight, Colbert scored a highlight-reel first-round knockout against Miguel Beltran Jr. in September 2019 and a dominant 12-round decision victory over former champion Jezzreel Corrales in January 2020.

Tall and rangy with good power in his left hand and a dedicated body attack, the 30-year-old Garcia (14-0, 10 KOs) scored the most impressive victory of his career in his last fight, when he defeated Isaac Avelar by unanimous decision in December 2021. The 5-9 Garcia, who sparred with Devin Haney and Rolly Romero for the Avelar win, represented his native San Juan de la Maguana, Dominican Republic, in the 2016 Olympics before turning pro in December that year. Garcia is trained by the highly respected Ismael Salas, who has guided a long list of standouts, including Yordenis Ugás, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Yuriorkis Gamboa, Nonito Donaire, and Jorge Linares. Garcia will be fighting for just the third time in the U.S. on February 26, having defeated Avelar in Minneapolis. He was zeroing in on facing a top contender in 2022. Now he will get his chance.

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

ORANGE, CA (February 14, 2022) – Rising star, lightweight Ruben “Ace” Torres (17-0, 14 KOs), is wrapping up his training camp for his upcoming fight against Cristian Mino (20-4-2, 17 KOs), an 8-round bout headlining
Thompson Boxing’s “New Blood” event this Friday, February 18, 2022.

“New Blood” will take place at the Doubletree Hotel Ontario, CA. Doors open at 6:30 pm PT with the first fight starting at 8:00 pm PT. Tickets priced at $50, $75, and $100, are available for purchase by calling 714-935-0900, or online at ThompsonBoxing.com. Fight fans will be able to watch all Thompson Boxing fights, weigh-ins, and behind-the-scenes content, via their new Mobile App downloadable on Apple and Google.

Here is what Torres had to say about his recent training camp with coaches Danny Zamora and Javier Gomez, his matchup with Mino, and more.

On his recent training camp.

“We have had a great camp, good sparring, and working with a great group of people in the L.A. area. I’m ready to go to the next level in my boxing career so the big key is focus and conditioning. It can be the small things that ruin a fighter at this level, and I’m trying to be fully invested without leaving no stone unturned. My goal is to be a world champion, so my training camp is that of a world champion. All the hard work will pay off.”

On his matchup with Mino.

“My opponent Cristian Miro is a tough Argentine fighter, who is coming to take everything I have worked for. It is hard to find tape on him, so I am working on my fundamentals, staying in shape, and listening to my coaches, Danny Zamora and Javier Gomez. These are the fights that prove I am ready for the next level since I have to keep my focus and show the caliber fighter I am.”

On headlining Thompson Boxing’s “New Blood” event.

“I am very grateful to Thompson Boxing, they believed in me from a very early point in my career, and now I am ready to show them that they were right to get behind me. I have a loyal team in place and great family support. I am just starting to hit my prime and kick off a great start to 2022, I want to send a message to the boxing world that I am ready to be mentioned amongst the best of my division.”

On what a win will do for his career.

“A victory will get me one step closer to fighting in 10-round fights. I feel I’m ready to step up in competition and start my march up the rankings. A win will also help me get into bigger money fights.”

Beto Duran will operate as the blow-by-blow commentator with expert commentary by Doug Fischer. Jessica Rosales will serve as the onsite ringside reporter.

This event is sponsored by Thompson Building Materials, transforming spaces in beautiful places; Omega Products International, the leading stucco manufacturer in the United States; Henry / Fortifiber, moisture system control as easy as 1,2,3, and Makita, rule the outdoors.

For more information, regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com. You can also follow the conversation on social media, please use #ThompsonBoxing.

Please check our Facebook Page, watch our YouTube channel on Thompson
Boxing TV, and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @ThompsonBoxing.

POMONA, CA (February 14, 2022) – Super lightweight rising prospect,
Ernesto “Tito” Mercado (4-0, 4 KOs), scored another impressive knockout this past Saturday, February 12, 2022, at the Commerce Casino, in Commerce, California, as he annihilated Marc Misiura (2-3-1, 1 KO) to keep KO streak alive. The fight was promoted by Red Boxing and Elite Boxing Promotions.

Mercado, who was looking to make a statement in this fight, came out firing and landed an explosive straight right hand to the head of Misiura in the first minuet of round one, sending him to the canvas. After getting up, Mercado followed up with a powerful right uppercut that dropped Misiura for the second time. Up again but now on wobbly legs, Misiura was met with an onslaught of punches from Mercado, forcing the referee to stop the bout in the later half of the opening round. Mercado is the first man to stop Misiura.

“I told everyone that I was going to make a statement in this fight by being the first person to stop Misiura, and I accomplished that goal,” said Mercado who had an incredible amateur record of 278-11 and was a 2020 Olympic alternate. “It was exciting fighting in front of all my fans and I’m grateful to Red Boxing and Elite Boxing Promotions for giving me this opportunity.”

Mercado has goals and aspirations to become a superstar in boxing and feels his time is coming where he’ll be fighting on a major network.

“I want to be recognized as the next great puncher in boxing,” continued Mercado, who stands 5’11. “I have the power to change a fight with one punch and that’s great for television. Everything is falling into place with my career, and I can’t wait to get back in the ring. Right now, I’m a promotional free agent, but I’m hoping by the end of the year, I’ll be fighting with one of the top promotions in boxing.”

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Hanover, MD (February 14, 2022) — Brandon Valdes will step in for Gadwin Rosa to take on Jordan White in the 10-round junior lightweight main event for the WBC USNBC Title on Saturday night, February 19th at The HALL at Live! Casino & Hotel in Hanover, Maryland.

Jeter Promotions is back at Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland for the 7th time and 1st of 2022 on the heels of a near capacity show on October 23rd.

The co-feature is a 10-round super middleweight clash pitting Demond Nicholson (24-4-1, 20 KOs) of Laurel, Maryland battling Gabriel Pham, 15-2 with eight knockouts of Atlantic City, New Jersey.

White, 24, is a seven year-professional and has wins over Ronaldo Solis (4-0-1), Misael Lopez (11-0), and his last bout when he stopped Joe Perez on October 23rd at The HALL at Live! Casino & Hotel in Hanover, Maryland.

Valdes, 23, of Barranquilla, Colombia, has a record of 14-2 with seven knockouts. The six-year professional has plied his trade in his native Colombia, Mexico and the The United States. In the highest profile fight, Valdes was stopped in six-rounds to former two-time Olympic Gold Medal winner Robeisy Ramirez. In that fight, Valdes was ahead on one scorecard at the time of the stoppage. In his last bout, Valdes won an eight-round unanimous decision over Adalberto Garcia Covarrubias on September 11, 2021 in Nuevo, Mexico.

Nicholson, 28, is a nine-year professional, who has wins over German Perez (11-1-3), Joshua Okine (28-5-1) and Isaac Rodriguez (25-2). Nicholson is coming off a unanimous decision over Victor Darocha on October 23rd at The HALL at Live! Casino & Hotel in Hanover, Maryland.

Pham, 32 is a 13 year-professional, has big victories over Michael Glenn (2-0), Chauncey Fields (4-1), Jaba Khositashvili (4-0), Derrick Webster (28-2), Rafael Fernandez Sosa (8-0) and his last contest when he stopped Israel Valerio Nino(15-3) on October 16th in the Dominican Republic.

In six-round bouts:

Jeter Promotions signee, Brandon Chambers (6-0-1, 3 KOs) of Gwynn Oak, Maryland fights Paul Carroll (4-2,4 KOs) of Colombia, South Carolina for the ABF USA Featherweight title.

Jeter Promotions signee and Penn State Graduate, AJ Williams (5-1, 2 KOs) of Baltimore, Maryland takes on Brent Oren (4-7, 1 KO) of Harrisburg, PA for the ABF Atlantic Light Heavyweight title

Thyler Williams (5-0, 4 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Maurice Anthony (3-3, 3 KOs) of Ypsalanti, Michigan in a junior welterweight fight.

Colby Madison (9-3-2, 6 KOs) of Baltimore, MD takes on Antonio Robertson (4-7-1, 2 KOs) of Raleigh, NC in a heavyweight bout.

In four-round fights:

Jeter Promotions signee, and former Dartmouth star Wide Receiver, Victor Williams (3-0, 3 KOs) of Washington, DC takes on Jeremiah Kendrick (1-0) of Philadelphia in a super welterweight fight.

Jeter Promotions signee, Mansaborie Conde (4-0, 3 KOs) of Laurel, MD takes on pro debuting Malcolm Phillips of Cole Bay, Sint Martins in a middleweight bout.

Ahmad Muhammad Jones (1-0, 1 KO) of Baltimore, MD takes on Tyree Arnold (1-3) of Philadelphia in a super lightweight bout.

Joseph Veazey (5-0, 3 KOs) of Baltimore fights an opponent to be named in a welterweight contest

Jaqeem Hutcherson (3-1) of Forestville, MD fights Jalen Woodmore (0-1) of Pontiac, MI in a super bantamweight contest.

Tickets for this great night of boxing are priced at $65-$150 and can be purchased at AXS.COM

The HALL at LIVE! is a 75,000-square-foot, three-story multi-use concert and event venue that features some of the nation’s best touring acts, comedians, championship boxing and other show-stopping entertainment. With a capacity of up to 4,800 persons, the state-of-the-art performance venue features three levels of seating: a main orchestra level, intimate loge-level boxes and a plush VIP Level with private bar, lounge and balcony. Each of these options afford spectacular views and immerse audiences in audio visual systems unparalleled in the region.

The $10 million state-of-the-art audio and visual system provides absolute acoustic perfection combined with stunning visual displays. The built-in performance stage, surrounded by massive, high resolution LED screens, is 60 feet wide by 40 feet deep and, from a technological standpoint, rivals the largest and most advanced performance venues anywhere. The HALL is the largest theater in any casino in the state of Maryland, as well as in Anne Arundel County. The HALL at Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland is located at 7002 Arundel Mills Circle, Hanover, Maryland 21076.

RIVERSIDE, Calif. (Feb. 14, 2022) — Former unified junior welterweight Jose Ramirez (26-1, 17 KOs) is ready to turn the page. Last May, he lost a competitive decision to Josh Taylor for the undisputed title. The road to redemption begins Friday, March 4, at Fresno’s Save Mart Center in a 12-rounder against Puerto Rican two-weight world champion José Pedraza (29-3, 14 KOs).

Ramirez, from Avenal, California, returns home to the friendly confines of the Save Mart Center. In five headlining events at the venue, Ramirez has drawn more than 65,000 of his most devoted Central Valley fans through the turnstiles.

This is what Ramirez had to say after a recent training session at Robert Garcia Boxing Academy in Riverside, California.

“The loss against Taylor taught me a lot. It was the first of my career, and I feel like it brought back my hunger for boxing again. I’ve really enjoyed this training camp preparing to get back on the winning path. I’ve had a lot of fun training with Robert Garcia in Riverside. I have corrected the mistakes that I made in that fight against Taylor. Maybe I had been making them for a long time, but when you are winning all your fights, you do not always look at the mistakes. I had a hard time accepting it, but I’ve already turned the page. There’s nothing I can do about it.”

“I am ready to return to the top of the division. I know that I am one of the best fighters at 140 pounds. I want to regain my titles and win all of the belts. It doesn’t matter if it’s in a rematch against Taylor, challenging another champion, or in a vacant title match against another top contender. I want my titles back.”

“José Pedraza is a tough test. He is a very good fighter and has looked good since he adjusted to the 140-pound division. I want to earn another shot at the title. I am not one to talk much. I come to face the best and let my performances in the ring speak for themselves.”

“I hope that Pedraza comes well prepared. I want to face the best version of José Pedraza so we can give the fans another classic fight between Mexico and Puerto Rico.”

“Coming back to fight again in front of my people in Fresno makes me very happy. I am training very hard because I want to bring joy and happiness to my fans again. I want them to feel proud, and that is why I am here to leave everything inside the ring on March 4 at Save Mart Center.”

Ramirez vs. Pedraza headlines a stacked card that includes featherweight contender Joet Gonzalez (24-2, 14 KOs) against Jeo Santisima (21-3, 18 KOs) in a 10-rounder, the six-round heavyweight professional debut of U.S. Olympic silver medalist Richard Torrez Jr., Gabriel Flores Jr. (20-1, 7 KOs) coming back in a 10-round junior lightweight matchup against Abraham Montoya (20-2-1, 14 KOs), rising junior lightweight Karlos Balderas (11-1, 10 KOs) in an eight-rounder, lightweight prospect Charlie Sheehy (1-0, 1 KO) in a four-rounder, 6’9 heavyweight Antonio “El Gigante” Mireles (2-0, 2 KOs) in a four-rounder, and middleweight prospect Javier “Milwaukee Made” Martinez (5-0, 2 KOs) in a six-rounder.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. 

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).

BRITISH SUPER BANTAMWEIGHT title challenger Chris Bourke insists the force is with him as he prepares to take on Marc Leach at York Hall on March 11.

The pintsized Streatham puncher has bludgeoned six of his 10 opponents to date into an early finish and, in turn, picked up a reputation as a KO-artist of considerable repute.

Even the redoubtable English champion, Michael Ramabeletsa – a known slayer of prospects – was battered into a second round submission in December 2020, with Bourke picking up the WBC International title as his reward, following up from his Southern Area title success against the previously unbeaten Ramez Mahmood five months earlier.

Bourke believes, if he lands on the money, a similar fate awaits all his super bantamweight rivals.

“100 per cent,” said the 27-year-old from the Peacock Gym. “Anyone I hit clean is going. I genuinely believe I am the biggest puncher in the super bantamweight division. It is just about getting my timing right, my sharpness there and executing the game plan.

“I am just blessed with it. I don’t know, it might be technique or something, but I know when I land it has got power.

“When I was 15 I was knocking out grown men three or four weights above me as an amateur, so I feel like I’ve always had it.”

Bourke’s spitefulness in the ring can perhaps be traced back to his childhood when, he recalls, his mother had to enlist outside help to calm his toddler tantrums.

These days, he is as cool, calm and collected as they come and we are highly unlikely to witness any pre-fight histrionics from either man leading up to March 11.

However, once he is in the ring, Bourke suspects a few character traits from the past return to the fore.

“When I was really young I had real anger issues and had to go and see someone, so they were proper issues,” he revealed. “Maybe I am just too mellow now!

“At school I was never really naughty, but I got into mischief and had the odd fight every now and again. I just had lots of energy.

“When I get in the ring he comes out again.”

Also on the show, Hackney Super-Featherweight Frank ‘The Tank’ Arnold (8-0-1, 2 KOs) will make the leap to ten rounds in a non-title contest.

British boxing’s latest Light-Heavyweight hopeful Karol Itauma (5-0, 3 KOs), an eight-time National amateur champion boxes a six rounder.

In four round action is Conor McGregor’s Super-Lightweight training partner Willo Hayden (2-0), Reading Super-Welterweight Joshua Frankham (4-0,1 KO), Portsmouth Super-Featherweight Jamie Chamberlain (3-0), Welling Super-Welterweight Jake Henty (1-0), and exciting teenage Cruiserweight Aloys Youmbi (0-1).

The quality card also features the debut of another top London Cruiserweight prospect, Arnold Obodai, a former Repton ABC boxer who won two National championships.

Tickets for the show at York Hall on Friday, March 11 are selling fast, available directly from the fighters or via eventbrite.co.uk or call: 01992 505 550 (office hours).

Ticket prices:
£55 (Floor/Balcony unreserved)
£65 (Floor/Balcony reserved) – SOLD OUT
£105 (Ringside) – SOLD OUT

Orlando, Florida (February 14, 2022)–Three undefeated fighters from Orlando, Florida, Sean Mason, Derrick Jackson and Fabian Lopez Nieves will compete in separate bouts as part of the non-televised undercard before a ShoBox: The New Generation card this Friday night at the Caribe Royale in Orlando.

Tickets are $40, $75, $100 and $1500 for VIP Tables, and can be purchased by clicking: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/professional-boxing-shobox-the-new-generation-tickets-247584781747

Mason, 21 years-old, is coming off a first-round stoppage over Ubaldo Lara on October 16, 2021 in Hallandale, Florida.

Hubbert, 33, is a 10-year professional with wins over Winston Anderson (4-0) and RJ Laase (12-1). Hubbert has faced 10 undefeated fighters and is coming off a loss to Bill Hutchinson on January 29th in Pittsburgh.

Jackson, 19, already has wins over three undefeated fighters in Antonius Grable (1-0) and Jose Rafael Salazar (1-0). In his last outing, he stopped Mike Plazoa in the opening round on January 7th in Orlando.

All four of Hatley’s wins have been against undefeated foes – Marcus Garza (5-0), Randall Feliciano Fernandez (2-0), Tracey McGruder (5-0) and Kerry James Jr. (4-0). In his last bout, he lost a split-decision to Vlad Panin (11-1) on December 19th in Atlanta.

Also seeing action in six-round bouts:

Fabian Lopez Nieves (3-0, 3 KOs) of Orlando via Caguas, Puerto Rico will face Cesar Soriano Berumwn (26-41-3, 16 KOs) of Iztaclco, Mexico in a middleweight fight.

Norman Neeley (10-0, 8 KOs) of Paterson, NJ will take on Rodney Moore (20-20-2, 9 KOs) in a heavyweight bout.

Elijah Pierce (11-2, 10 KOs) of Midwest City, Oklahoma battles Aldimar Silva (22-18, 14 KOs) of Sao Paulo, Brazil in a featherweight contest.

In a four-round bout, Jeremy Adorno (5-0, 1 KO) of Allentown, PA fights Trayvion Butts (4-2, 3 KOs) of Dry Branch, Georgia in a featherweight bout.

The main event will see undefeated lightweight prospect Jamaine Ortiz (14-0-1, 8 KOs), who shared the ring with Jaron Ennis and Teofimo Lopez during a decorated amateur career, make his ShoBox debut against Nahir Albright (14-1, 7 KOs) in a 10-round bout that could have long-term consequences for boxing’s hottest division. Albright is an aspiring R&B singer who belted out a tune during a post-fight interview following his last win. The co-feature matches ShoBox returnee Joe George (11-0, 7 KOs) facing Sean Hemphill (14-0, 8 KOs) in an eight-round super middleweight bout of unbeatens. The telecast opens with Philadelphia’s undefeated welterweight prospect Paul Kroll (9-0, 6 KOs) squaring off against perennial spoiler Marquis Taylor (12-1-1, 1 KOs) in an eight-round battle between ShoBox newcomers.

DEDHAM, Mass. February (12, 2022) – Last night was “Tank Time” again!

Weymouth (MA) super welterweight Francis “Frank The Tank” Hogan (10-0, 10 KOs) went 10-for-10, blasting out Vincent Floyd (4-12-2, 2 KOs) midway through the opening round, headlining St. Valentines’ Day Massacre,” presented by Vertex Promotions, at Moseley’s On The Charles in Dedham, Massachusetts.

The 21-year-old Hogan was the headliner for the first time, as well as in his first schedule 8-round bout, brought the fight to his over-matched opponent right after the opening bell sounded and he never let up. Hogan, a southpaw, stunned Floyd, who’s legs buckled and left him on the ropes and vulnerable to sharp-shooting Hogan. Hogan unleashed a barrage of unanswered punches until the referee halted the action midway through round one as his many fans erupted in joy.

The wildly popular Hogan is the reigning New Hampshire super welterweight champion, in addition to capturing a gold medal at the 2019 New England Golden Gloves.

In the co-featured event, Dorchester (MA) lightweight Jonathan Depina (7-1, 4 KOs) rolled to a 6-round unanimous decision victory over his Argentinian opponent, Jonathan “El Guapo” Hernan Godoy (5-13).

Mansfield (MA) boxer James “The Slim Reaper” Perella (9-0, 7 KOs) looked sharp, punching his way to a second-round win over Zack Kuhn (10-11-1, 5 KOs), who hit the canvas several times, by way of technical knockout in their Special Welterweight Attraction.

R – Perella-Kuhn.jpg
James Perella (L) stopped Zack Kuhn

Fighting for the first time in 2 ½ years, South Boston’s Joe Farina (8-1, 4 KOs) amazingly showed no rust, taking a one-sided 6-round unanimous decision from Las Vegas middleweight Rynell Griffin (8-50-2, 2 KOs).

New York City super lightweight Jaica Pavilus (2-4-1, 1 KO) registered the lone upset of the evening, winning a 6-round majority decision versus previously unbeaten Miranda “El Alacrana” Reyes (5-1-1, 3 KOs) in the first pro fight between females in Dedham.

Dorchester featherweight Troy Anderson, Jr. (4-0, 2 KOs), a local favorite and union sheet metal worker in local 17, controlled the action from start to finish in his fist 6-rounder, effectively using his boxing skills en route to a 6-round unanimous decision over Mike Fowler (7-43, 2 KOs).

In his first 6-round bout, Irish prospect Tommy “The Kid” O’Toole (3-0, 2 KOs) went the distance for the first time as a professional, dominating dangerous Larry “Hitman” Pryor (15-24, 9 KOs), the New Hampshire Cruiserweight Champion, winning all six rounds on each of the three judges’ scorecards for a shutout performance. The fight was contested at a187-pound catchweight. O’Toole, fighting out of Galway, was the 2019 Irish Elite Championship gold medalist.

R – OToole-Pryor.jpg
Tommy “The Kid” O’Toole (R) had Irish eyes smilin’ again

The Davidson brothers Kansas City, Kansas, fought on the same pro card for the first time and both were victorious. Marcus was fighting in his first scheduled 6-rounder, but he ended the show late in round one, after dropping welterweight Rakim Johnson (6-16-1, 5 KOs) twice. His older brother, super lightweight Marcell (1-0), turned in a promising pro debut, easily winning a 4-round unanimous decision against Cesar “Cobra” Espinal Maldanado (0-2). Marcell is a 2-time Ringside World and 2019 National Golden Gloves Champion.

Southbridge (MA) featherweight Alex Rivera (3-0, 2 KOs) decked Brandon “Bulldog” Grimmett (0-6) twice, the second stopping him late in the opening round.

Vertex Promotions’ next event is scheduled for May 14 at Moseley’s On The Charles.

Complete Results Below:

OFFICIAL RESULTS

MAIN EVENT – SUPER WELTERWEIGHTS

Francis Hogan (10-0, 10 KOs), Weymouth, MA

WTKO1 (1:37)

Vincent Floyd (4-12-2, 2 KOs), Philadelphia, PA

CO-FEATURE – LIGHTWEIGHTS

Jonathan Depina (7-1, 4 KOs), Dorchester, MA

WDEC6 (61-54, 61-54, 59-58)

Jonathan Hernan Godoy (5-13, 0 KOs), Miami, FL by way of Argentina

187-POUND CATCHWEIGHT

Tommy O’Toole (3-0, 2 KOs), Galway, Ireland

WDEC6 (60-54, 60-54, 60-54)

Larry “Hitman” Pryor (15-25, 9 KOs), Frederick, MD

MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Joe Farina (8-1, 4 KOs), South Boston, MA

WDEC6 (60-53, 60-53, 58-56)

Rynell Griffen (8-50-2, 2 KOs), Las Vegas, NV

WELTERWEIGHTS

James Perella (9-0, 7 KOs), Mansfield, MA

WTKO2 (:50)

Zack Kuhn (10-11-1, 5 KOs), Welch, WV

Marcus Davidson (3-0, 3 KOs), Kansas City, KS

WTKO1 (2:11)

Rakim Johnson (6-16-1, 5 KOs), Indianapolis, IN

SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS

Marcell Davidson (1-0, 0 KOs), Kansas City (KS)

WDEVC4 (40-36, 40-36, 39-37)

Cesar Espinal Maldanado (0-2), Arecibo, Puerto Rico

FEMALE SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS

Jaica Pivilus (2-4-1, 2 KOs), New York, NY

WDEC6 (60-54, 58-56, 57-57)

Miranda Reyes (5-1-1, 3 KOs), Houston, TX

SUPER FEATHERWEIGHTS

Alex Rivera (3-0, 2 KO), Southbridge, MA

WTKO1 (2:42)

Brandon Grimmett (0-6), Thomasville, NC

FEATHERWEIGHTS

Troy Anderson, Jr. (4-0, 2 KOs), Dorchester, MA

WDEC6 (60-54, 59-55, 59-55)

Mike Fowler (7-43, 2 KOs), Milwaukee, WI

DEDHAM, Mass. (February 11, 2022) – The official weigh in for tomorrow night’s “St. Valentine’s Day Massacre,” presented by Vertex Promotions, was held this afternoon at the same venue the professional boxing event will be held, Moseley’s On The Charles in Dedham, Massachusetts.

Limited tickets will be on sale while they last on fight night for $85.00 and up (ringside), $75.00 (general admission) and $50.00 (standing room).

Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. ET with the first bout scheduled to start at 7:30 p.m. ET.

Fighters’ weights below:

MAIN EVENT – SUPER WELTERWEIGHTS (8)

Francis Hogan (9-0, 9 KOs), Weymouth, MA 156.5 lbs.

Vincent Floyd (4-11-2, 2 KOs), Philadelphia, PA 157.1 lbs.

CO-FEATURE – LIGHTWEIGHTS (6)

Jonathan Depina (6-1, 4 KOs), Dorchester, MA 136 lbs.

Jonathan Hernan Godoy (5-12, 0 KOs), Miami, FL by way of Argentina 137.5 lbs.

SPECIAL WELTERWEIGHT ATTRACTION (8)

James Perella (8-0, 6 KOs), Mansfield, MA 147 lbs.

Zack Kuhn (10-10-1, 5 KOs), Welch, WV 145.5 lbs.

187-POUND CATCHWEIGHT (6)

(R) Tommy O’Toole (2-0, 2 KOs), Galway, Ireland 186 lbs.

(L) Larry Pryor (15-24, 9 KOs), Frederick, MD 186 lbs.

MIDDLEWEIGHTS (6)

Joe Farina (7-1, 4 KOs), South Boston, MA 153.5 lbs.

Rynell Griffen (8-49-2, 2 KOs), Las Vegas, NV 160 lbs.

FEMALE SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS (6)

Miranda Reyes (5-0-1, 3 KOs), Houston, TX 140.5 lbs.

Jaica Pivilus (1-4-1 (1 KO), New York, NY 137.5 lbs.

WELTERWEIGHTS (6)

Marcus Davidson (2-0, 2 KOs), Kansas City, KS 145 lbs.

Rakim Johnson (6-15-1, 5 KOs), Indianapolis, IN 146 lbs.

FEATHERWEIGHTS (6)

Troy Anderson, Jr. (3-0, 2 KOs), Dorchester, MA 129 lbs.

Mike Fowler (7-42, 2 KOs), Milwaukee, WI 130.5 lbs.

SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS (4)

Marcell Davidson (pro debut), Kansas City (KS) 139 lbs.

Cesar “Cobra” Espinal Maldanado (0-1), Arecibo, Puerto Rico 145 lbs.

SUPER FEATHERWEIGHTS (4)

Alex Rivera (2-0, 1 KO), Southbridge, MA 128 lbs.

Brandon Grimmett (0-5), Thomasville, NC 134 lbs.

(card subject to change)

Bethlehem, PA (February 11, 2022)–Super Middleweight’s Devar Ferhadi and Khainell Wheeler will appear in the eight-round headline bout of a King’s Promotions card at the Wind Creek Bethlehem Events Center on Friday night, March 11th.

The eight-bout card is promoted by King’s Promotions.

Ferhadi, 27 years-old of Frederick, Maryland via Iraq is 9-0 with seven knockouts. The 10 year veteran has a win over undefeated Vincent Baccus (4-0-1). In his last bout, Ferhadi took an eight-round unanimous decision over Blake Mansfield on June 5, 2021 in Philadelphia.

Wheeler, 28 years-old of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, has a record of 6-1 with five knockouts. The three-year pro is coming off his career best win as he took a six-round split decision over previously undefeated Frederick Julan (12-0) on December 2, 2021 in New York City.

In the eight-round co-feature, Kenny Robles battles Naim Nelson in a junior welterweight contest.

Robles, 30 years-old of Staten Island, New York, has a record of 8-1 with three knockouts. The five-year pro has a win over previously undefeated Shawn West (3-0), and his last outing when he won a six-round unanimous decision over Isaac Luna on March 19, 2021 in Tampa, Florida.

Nelson, 31 years-old, of Philadelphia is 14-5 with one knockout. The 11 year-professional has wins over Korey Sloane (1-0), Esteban Rodriguez (5-1-1) and Jerome Rodriguez (6-0-3). Nelson is coming off a 4th round stoppage defeated to undefeated Jesus Ramos on December 26, 2020 in Los Angeles.

In a six-round bout, undefeated James Bernadin (5-0, 3 KOs) of Lancaster, PA takes on tough Kevin Asmat (6-2, 5 KOs) of North Bergen, NJ

The 29 year-old Bernadin has been on a roll as in his last two fights, he has wins over Osvaldo Morales (4-0) and a first-round stoppage of Edgar Torres (8-2-1).

Asmat, 27 years-old, has a win over Ernesto Ornelas (1-0). He is on a three-fight win streak, with his latest win being a third-round stoppage over Weusi Johnson on June 22, 2019 in Philadelphia,

In six-round bouts:

Jonathan Rodriguez (9-0, 6 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Jose Flores Chavez (9-13, 5 KOs) of Baja, Mexico in a bantamweight contest.

Julian Gonzalez (5-0, 5 KOs) of Reading, PA takes on an opponent to be named in a junior lightweight fight.

Quadir Albright (4-0, 4 KOs) of Philadelphia battles Antonio Wattell (3-8-3, 2 KOs) of Houston, Texas in a junior welterweight affair.

In four-round bouts:

LeAnna Cruz (1-0) of Bethlehem, PA will square off with Anyela Lopez (2-1-1, 1 KO) of Tucson, AZ in a bantamweight bout.

Thanjae Teasley of Bethlehem, PA and Ajoola Oladeinde of La Plata, MD in a welterweight fight of pro debuter’s.

Tickets for this great evening are priced at $75, $100 and $150 and can be purchased at

17:15 GMT LIVE ON BEFORE THE BELL

6 x 3 mins International Welterweight contest
SHILOH DEFREITAS 143.6lbs v ALEXEY TUKHTAROV 143.4lbs
(London, England)                    (Kamensk-Uralsky, Russia)

followed by

6 x 3 mins International Welterweight contest
CYRUS PATTINSON 150.2lbs v EVGENII VAZEM 150.9lbs
(Ashtington, England)                (Stary Oskol, Russian)

followed by

6 x 3 mins International Super-Bantamweight contest
HOPEY PRICE 125lbs v RICADO ROMAN 124.6lbs
(Leeds, England)             (Durango, Mexico)

followed by

19:00 GMT LIVE ON DAZN

8 x 3 mins International Middleweight contest
AUSTIN WILLIAMS 161.4lbs v JAVIER FRANCISCO MACIEL 166.3lbs
(Texas, USA)                              (Buenos Aires, Argentina)

followed by

10 x 2 mins vacant WBA Intercontinental Super-Bantamwieght Title 
ELLIE SCOTNEY 121.2lbs v JORGELINA GUANINI 119.6lbs
(Catford, England)                 (Buenos Aires, Argentina)

followed by

12 x 3 mins vacant WBC International Middleweight Title
FELIX CASH 159.6lbs v MAGOMED MADIEV 159.1lbs   
(Wokingham, England)  (Makhachkala, Russia)

followed by

6 x 3 mins International Heavyweight contest
JOHNNY FISHER 237lbs v GABRIEL ENGUEMA 231.7lbs     
(Romford, England)             (Madrid, Spain)

followed by

12 x 3 mins WBA Super-Middleweight World Title Eliminator
DANIEL JACOBS 166.9lbs v JOHN RYDER 167lbs       
(Brooklyn, USA)                     (Islington, England)

EUROPEAN WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPION David Avanesyan returns to the ring on March 19 at the OVO Arena, Wembley with a defence of his title on a night of multiple championship clashes at the historic London venue.

Avanesyan, who is bidding to return to world title contention in 2022, takes on the unbeaten Finn Oskari Metz, 15-0, in what will be a fifth defence of his EBU belt, with him also having recently joined forces with Frank Warren and Queensberry.

For the 33-year-old Russian, who is trained out of Newark by Carl Greaves, it is a return to a happy hunting ground as the formerly known Wembley Arena hosted his stoppage triumphs over both Josh Kelly and Liam Taylor.

“I am very happy to be fighting in front of my British fans at my favourite venue in Wembley where I had great nights in the past year,” said Avenesyan, 28-3-1. “I promise I am back with real determination to put a big show on before a big fight.

“I am fit, I am ready and Metz is a good fighter and unbeaten, but I will win and win in style. I look forward to my debut under Frank Warren who I am grateful for getting me out on this show and look forward to performing for BT Sport and their fans.

“Enjoy the show I am back!”

An array of the country’s finest young prospects/contenders feature on the card, headed by Hamzah Sheeraz (14-0, 10 KOs), the WBO European super welterweight champion, who will take on Jez Smith (13-4-1, 6 KOs) for the WBC International Silver middleweight title in a fight that is sure to bring fireworks and a tough welcome to a new division.

Thrilling bantamweight star Dennis McCann is entering into title business for the first time. ‘The Menace’ (11-0, 6 KOs) will fight for the WBO Youth world title over eight rounds against Charles Tondo (12-4-2, 5 KOs), a southpaw from Tanzania.

The two leading young lightweights in Britain are also in action at Wembley, with Mark Chamberlain (9-0, 6 KOs) taking on a 10-rounder for the first time and Sam Noakes (8-0, 8 KOs) making a first defence of his WBC International Silver title against the Italian Vincenzo Finiello (15-4-2, 1 KO).

Further title action comes with relentless featherweight star Louie Lynn (10-0, 7 KOs) defending his WBC International Silver belt for a second time against James Beech jr (14-2, 2 KOs) from Bloxwich.

Completing the card, gifted super lightweight prospect Henry Turner (6-0) will have a fourth six-rounder, explosive super feather Masood Abdullah (3-0, 3 KOs) goes in with Engel Gomez (8-4, 4 KOs) over six rounds and super lightweight Sonny Liston Ali (2-0) fights Birmingham’s Sean Davis (14-18), also in a six-rounder.

In four-round action, Khalid Ali (1-0, 1 KO) will look to double his win tally against Kris Pilkington (2-10-1).

Finally, Frank Warren gets to unleash his latest young star onto the professional ranks, with two-time European championship gold medallist Royston Barney-Smith making his pro debut, having turned 18 in January.

Barney-Smith enjoyed a glittering stint in the amateur code of the sport, with 50 fights under his belt bringing about 45 wins. The product of Pinewood Starr has represented England at four international championships and worn the colours of his country on 37 occasions, winning 36.

Promoter Warren said of his Wembley show: “I am thrilled to get our partnership underway with David Avenesyan and his manager Neil Marsh with another defence of his European title ahead of the bigger challenges on the horizon. I think everybody knows who the best welterweight knocking about these parts is, but there is no clamour to fight him, so we will look for a swift ascent back to world title contention for him as soon as possible.

“This show features a number of the best and most exciting young fighters currently coming through the ranks in this country and I am looking forward to seeing them all take a next step at the beginning of a big year for them.

“I am also personally very excited to launch the professional career of Royston Barney-Smith and I urge you all to get behind this young man from the off because he is a special talent, who is destined for big things in the years ahead.”

Tickets for an incredible night of Championship boxing at the OVO Arena go on general sale at 11am on Wednesday 16th February at AXS.com. 

Brentwood, Essex – 11 February 2022 –  Kevin Mitchell from Dagenham left 29 of his 39 pro victims counting birdies en route to British and Commonwealth super-feather titles. And the explosive hooking two-time world title challengerhopes that Alfie Winter will be a chiller among the paid brigade.

Winter enters the the pro-ranks tomorrow night (Saturday 12th February) at the Brentwood Centre in Essex when he takes on experienced veteran Kevin McCauley over four rounds, streamed live on iFL.

‘I’m putting bad intentions into my punches. Kev’s got me to settle down, go through the gears and put spite into my shots as opposed to just flicking to score a point. Kev’s been there and done it. He talks from first-hand experience at the very highest level rather than from watching the tele.” Said the 24 year old who works with Mitchell at the Matchroom Gym in Romford.

‘I’ve also picked up spitefulness from sparring Conor Benn a good few times plus slickness and technical smarts from working with Joe Cordina. I’m developing into the full package.

‘Growing up, I was obsessed with Floyd Mayweather. He did everything needed to win. The win was everything. I hope to showcase the real art of boxing. My best attribute is my brain. Too many fighters don’t think too much then end up ugly.  I box slick, make ‘em miss, make ‘em pay.’

While the majority of the domestic boxing elite hail from Britain’s inner cities, the Winter’s tale began in the leafy glades of Surrey. Born in Kingston, he now resides with his father in Moseley.

‘I was brought up in a quiet neighbourhood, full of old people,’ disclosed affable Alfie, the youngest of three.

‘As a kid, I lacked confidence and kept myself to myself but I always liked fighting. I think boys are naturally drawn to it.  But when Dad watched boxing on the tele, I thought it was a bit boring. They always seemed to be holding, rather than punching. 

‘By 16, I realised I wasn’t going to get much further with my football so I went to the Battlebridge boxing gym. From football, I thought I was really fit until I began the boxing!

Fast of fist and foot, Alfie swiftly evolved into one of the brightest amateur talents in the region.

‘I won 30 of my 40 bouts,’ says Winter who also represented the Earlsfield and Guildford City clubs.  ‘Highlights included winning the Haringey Cup for under 20 bouts and losing a split decision in the National Novices final. I won a Southern Counties Challenge Belt which I successfully defended three times. I also represented the Southern Counties against Ireland and the Army.’

In 2018, he advanced to the London Elite ABA light-welter final but, conceding huge experience and natural size to Elliot Whale, a 6ft 1in southpaw from Sidcup, Winter was comprehensively outpointed.

‘I didn’t have the best of luck in the ABAs,’ he recalls.

‘The following year I broke my nose in the first round of a Southern Counties bout and Covid disrupted my plans the next two years. But boxing professional was always my goal. The amateurs just paved the way.’

Handsome and wholesome, the Richard Maynard managed talent embarks on his latest journey with steely single-mindedness.

‘Away from boxing, I have my little girl (two year old Myla) every weekend and take her to feed the ducks, stuff like that. I’ve got a gym at my house with a ring which she loves running around,’ says fresh-faced, softly spoken Winter, a closet Gooner.

‘My progression will be decided by Kevin and Richard but, initially, I’d like at least five fights a year. Long term, I aim to get to the top of the sport, world champion. Boxing’s not an easy sport and there’s no point doing it if you don’t aim to be the very best.’ 

‘I should shift a good few tickets and I intend to show fans what I’ve been working on with Kev, how I’ve changed,’ he concludes.

‘I’m definitely developing that explosiveness. Hopefully, I can put my opponent away and make a big statement.’ 

Follow Alfie Winter on Instagram: alfiewinter_

LOS ANGELES, CA (February 11, 2022) – Mexico’s undefeated rising star, William “Camaron” Zepeda (24-0, 22 KOs) of San Mateo Atenco, Mexico, returns to the ring on February 19 against Luis “Bofo” Viedas (29-11-1, 10 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico. The 10-round lightweight fight will serve as the co-main event for Munguia vs. Ballard and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN from the iconic Plaza Monumental de Playas de Tijuana.

Also on the fight card and part of the DAZN broadcast, undefeated Rafael “El Divino” Espinoza (17-0, 14 KOs) of Guadalajara, Mexico, is set to face Alie “Demolition Man” Laurel (18-6-1, 11 KOs) of Manila, Philippines in a 10-round featherweight event. Opening the DAZN broadcasts, Diego “Azabache” Torres Nunez (13-0, 13 KOs) from Zapopan, Mexico, will be looking to continue his undefeated and perfect KO record when he faces fellow countryman Jonathan “Perita” Escobedo Martinez (8-2-1, 2 KOs) in an 8-round super lightweight fight.

“I feel very excited to fight on DAZN in Tijuana, the cradle of boxing! Fighting in front of the Mexican boxing fans that created big legends like Julio Cesar Chavez and Erik’ El Terrible’ Morales will elevate my profile in front of the boxing community,” said William Zepeda. “Very soon, everyone will know my name, ‘Camaron’ Zepeda. I am also proud to represent Golden Boy, my team, and my family. I have come a long way and will show off all the hard work to give all the boxing fans a great show on February 19.”

“I am putting everything on the line for this opportunity,” said Luis Viedas. “I have been training hard, and although Zepeda is a tough fighter, I am fully confident in my ability to be victorious on February 19.”

“William Zepeda is a very exciting fighter to watch; he comes forward, he has power, speed, he is the whole package,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman, and CEO of Golden Boy. “Every time I see him, he gets better and better, and I know he will deliver a great night of boxing in Tijuana, Mexico on February 19.”

One of the most exciting lightweight fighters to come out of Mexico, William “Camaron” Zepeda, is an undefeated fighter known for his devastating punching power. With a 91% KO ratio, Zepeda has only gone the distance twice in his career, first in 2016 and the second in 2017. Since then, the fighter has defeated every fighter via knockout, including tough contenders Roberto “Rifle” Ramirez and Hector “El Finito” Tanajara. Zepeda was last seen in the ring in November 2021, defeating John Vicente Moralde via knockout in the fourth round.

Luis “Bofo” Viedas of Tijuana, Mexico, has been a local staple on the Tijuana boxing scene since his professional debut in 2006. After a slow 2020 due to the pandemic, Vedas stayed active in 2021 when he was able to fight four times, winning bouts against Jose Luis Araiza, Luis Gerard Perez Salas, and Francisco Coronado. Now, Viedas is looking for an opportunity to prove he is still in his prime when he faces William Zepeda on February 19.

Also, on the fight card and part of the non-broadcasted fight card Jorge “Chino” Garcia (22-3, 18 KOs) of Los Mochis, Mexico, will participate in a 10-round super welterweight fight against Jesus “Dengue” Nunez Rodriguez (19-8-2, 13 KOs) of Sinaloa, Mexico.

Argi Cortes (21-2-2, 10 KOs) of Mexico City, Mexico is set to face Rogelio Romero (14-5, 7 KOs) of Tlaxcala, Mexico in a 10-round super flyweight fight.

Monterrey’s Arely “Ametralladora” Mucino (30-3-2, 10 KOs) is scheduled to take on Marisol Sanchez (12-9, 5 KOs) of Chiapas, Mexico, in an 8-round flyweight fight.

Opening up the fight card at the Plaza Monumental de Playas de Tijuana, the undefeated Evan Sanchez (9-0, 6 KOs) of Parlier, California, will face Abraham “Pitbull” Juarez (19-8, 8 KOs) of Mexico City, Mexico in a 6-round super welterweight event.

Munguia vs. Ballard is a 12-round fight for the WBO Intercontinental Middleweight Title presented by Golden Boy in association with Zanfer Boxing. The fight will take place on Saturday, February 19 at Plaza Monumental de Playas de Tijuana in Tijuana, Mexico and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN worldwide, excluding Mexico.

Tickets for Munguia vs. Ballard are on sale now and are priced at $250MX, $700MX, $2,000MX, $3,500MX, $5,000MX not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase at www.arema.com.mx and at their participating retailers.

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 #MunguiaBallard.

Professional fighter, Jordon Murphy, born in Bensalem, PA, and currently fighting out of Deerfield Beach, FL, will put his 1-0 record on the line when he faces Nasir Mickens (2-0, 1 KO), of Philadelphia, PA, in a four-round, lightweight bout at Live! Casino in South Philadelphia on Thursday, February 24. The fight is one of eight fights featured that evening.

Tickets at $50, $75 and $125 are on sale now at https://philadelphia.livecasinohotel.com/events-and-shows/joe-hand-boxing and at AXS.com or by calling 215-364-9000. Must be 21 or older to attend.
Here is a question and answer with Murphy for consideration as a preview to the fight and a profile of a fighter.

What got you into boxing?
“Being born in Philadelphia you know Rocky is a huge part of that city, so I grew up a lot watching Rocky with my brother. Then I moved to Florida at a young age, and my brother was so influenced by Rocky, he begged my dad to sign him up for boxing, and we all were playing baseball. It just so happened that my old boxing coach, Butch Santy, came around somehow and started talking to my dad. They started to talk about boxing and then he (Butch) was like I’m opening a boxing gym in a few months and that is how it started, following in my brother’s footsteps.”

What do you enjoy the most about boxing/fighting?
“Basically everything about it. There is not one specific thing I can say. I love the training. Most people don’t like running. I enjoy running; I enjoy the workouts we do; I love sparring; I love being in the ring. What I like the most is seeing myself improve every time I step into the ring and learn new things.

Is there current or former fighters that you took pieces of their style from and implemented into your game?
“I would definitely say Sugar Ray Leonard was a big part of that. I watched Sugar Ray as a kid and then Floyd Mayweather came around. Floyd Mayweather was a huge star, and then Manny Pacquiao and Canelo Alvarez. I like watching those type of guys. They all have a unique style that you don’t usually see in boxers.”

Did you always want to be a boxer?
“So like I said, at first it was baseball. That was really the first sport I started playing, and I was really good at it. I always thought I was going to be a professional baseball player, but the first time I stepped into a gym was on my birthday, and that was the only thing I asked my dad for. I said I do not want anything for my birthday; I just want you to put me in boxing. Since the first day, I fell in love with it. My mom was pregnant with my little brother, and every day she would drive us to the gym, and it was something I really admired.”

What is the biggest life lesson you have learned in boxing?
“Definitely you learn a lot of discipline being in boxing. You know how to control your anger a little more. Nobody is perfect. Everyone gets mad, but me personally, I do not like getting mad. Boxing has helped with that over the years. I feel like my temper has gotten a lot better than when I was a kid, and also my discipline and wisdom, as well as how to speak to people when you’re interacting with people nonstop throughout your career. As a kid, I won 4 national titles, 7 regional titles and 12 state titles, so the attention was always on me, and I always had to interact with older people coming up to me. So, it definitely taught me a lot over the years.”

After your last fight, what is something that you have been working on that you want to showcase in the ring?
“It literally is those two things that you said were exactly what I needed to work on. I have watched my pro debut every day, and you start taking little pieces off. I did see I was fighting off of my front foot a lot. Obviously, it’s not good. You have to be sitting on your back foot to generate more power. So, something I have been working on a lot is sitting down more on my back foot and picking up my left hand. Watching Floyd Mayweather throughout my whole life, you probably know from seeing a lot of younger boxers, a lot of kids do the Philly shell now and try to mimic the Floyd Mayweather stance. But in professional boxing, that does not work.”

What do you find the most rewarding or gratifying in boxing?
“I think the most special part about boxing is definitely winning. That is a huge aspect. You never want to lose; you never want an L on your record even though you can’t be scared to have that on your record. A lot of champions who are still Hall of Famers have multiple L’s on their record. So it’s not something you should be scared of. It’s just something nobody wants. Definitely something special is having those people around you supporting you as well. They walk you step by step. Having my coach teach me new things and learning new things throughout the years, those things are special to me, knowing that I can get better and do better every time I’m in the gym.”

Who are your biggest supporters outside the ring?
“For sure, my girlfriend. I met my girlfriend a few years back. She’s my ride-or-die for sure. She has always had my back. She makes sure I’m eating well, going to the gym and doing the things I need to do. She helps me edit pictures; she does a lot too. She is definitely my number 1. My dad is also like my best friend. He is the one that put me into this sport, and he has been nothing but supportive of me and moving forward in the future. My whole family, I have a big family, I have my mom, my 2 older brothers, my younger brother, my younger sister, my uncle, who is also my manger. So, I have a pretty big team around me. Those people definitely hold a big spot in my heart. Without them, I wouldn’t be able to do this. The support they give is something special for sure.”

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

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