(Jan. 25, 2022) — The long-simmering rivalry between British superstars Amir Khan and Kell Brook will finally come to a head in a 149-pound catchweight battle Saturday, Feb. 19, at AO Arena in Manchester, England. Roughly 20,000 fans will be in attendance for this British super fight for the ages, which sold out in 10 minutes when tickets went on sale in December.

Promoted by BOXXER, Khan vs. Brook and select undercard fights will stream live and exclusively in the United States on ESPN+.

“Kell Brook versus Amir Khan is a fight that has sparked international interest,” said BOXXER CEO Ben Shalom. “This legacy-defining fight between the UK superstars, who have been world champions on American soil, now meet in a final showdown at AO Arena in one of the most eagerly anticipated fights in UK history.”

“I think Kell Brook is very bitter, and this is a good time for me to put the issue straight between us because he has always thought he is the better fighter than me,” Khan told Sky Sports. “He’s always said he should have had the recognition that I had and believes that should have been him. But at the end of the day, my skills made me the name I am today.”

In a recent interview with Sky Sports, Brook said: “This is a real grudge match, there’s no love lost in this fight and we both don’t like each other. The fans and the pundits can’t split us, and that shows how even this fight is going to be.”

The 35-year-old Khan (34-5, 21 KOs), from Bolton, England, has been in the spotlight since the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, when he took home a silver medal as a 17-year-old prodigy. As a pro, Khan unified world titles at junior welterweight and fought myriad top names, including Marco Antonio Barrera, Danny Garcia, Marcos Maidana, Paulie Malignaggi, Canelo Alvarez, and Zab Judah. He last fought in July 2019, knocking out former featherweight world champion Billy Dib in four rounds.

Brook (39-3, 27 KOs), a former British champion from Sheffield, England, made three successful defenses of the IBF welterweight world title he won from Shawn Porter in August 2014. His bold 2016 challenge of middleweight champion Gennadiy Golovkin ended in a fifth-round knockout defeat. He then lost his welterweight title to Errol Spence Jr. via 11th-round knockout the following May. Brook won three consecutive fights before challenging WBO welterweight champion Terence Crawford in November 2020. Brook led on two scorecards before being knocked out in the fourth round.

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LONG BEACH, CALIF. (January 25, 2022) – Undefeated prospect Ashton “H2O” Sylve aims to make a splash in his U.S. debut when he steps into the ring on Saturday, February 26 in Pomona, California, as the 17-year-old looks to leap into the discussion amongst the sport’s top prospects.

A self-described “mobile brawler” inside of the ring, Sylve first gained acclaim at eight-years-old, when his father and trainer Ivan posted a training video of Ashton that caught the attention of all-time great Floyd Mayweather. Next thing Sylve knew, he was invited into Mayweather’s gym and began learning from Mayweather and his uncles Roger and Jeff.

“My favorite fighter and the one I have always watched tapes on, is Floyd Mayweather,” said Sylve. “So to meet him and be invited to his gym to train and be a part of his experience, that opened my eyes to the dedication it takes to be a successful fighter. I’m training hard to do just that. I want to be a world champion in several weight classes for sure.”

Sylve put together a stellar amateur career across 110 fights that included 10 national titles, two International Boxing Cup victories and over 100 wins. At just 16-years-old, Sylve determined he had accomplished all he could in the amateur ranks and turned pro as a teenager.

Training out of the Jack Rabbit Gym in Long Beach, California, Sylve is well-known in the area and has sparred numerous top pros, including four-division world champion Leo Santa Cruz. Sylve, who is trained by his father, has piled up a 6-0 record with five knockouts since his debut in October 2020, with all his bouts coming in Mexico due to age restrictions for pro bouts in the U.S.

The father-son duo started their own H2O Promotions company to help Sylve get his pro career started as he seeks to make the journey to the top.

“My son is a great kid and people are always impressed by what they see in his skills,” said Ivan. “Even as a young fighter, I was well aware that his ring generalship and boxing IQ were well beyond his years. He’s quite special in and out of the ring and I’m extremely proud of him.”

With his U.S. debut set for February 26, just under a month after he’ll turn 18-years-old, Sylve is eager to deliver a strong performance and leave a lasting impression when he steps into the ring.

“I can’t wait to fight in Pomona and be in front of my fans,” said Sylve. “I have a big following in and around Southern California and in my hometown of Long Beach. I know they’re all going to come out and watch me. For my fans around the world, who are so excited to watch me fight, I made sure it is broadcasted free of charge on YouTube live. I’m going to show up and put on a great show on February 26.”

Dubai, UAE – January 25, 2022 – Probellum returns to Dubai in March for an action-packed weekend of elite-level boxing staged over two consecutive nights with an incredible card featuring a combination of current and former world champions, Olympic medalists and hugely talented young fighters.

Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium, located at The Irish Village, in association with Jumeirah Creekside Hotel, will host Probellum’s first shows of the year – and one of the UAE’s biggest-ever boxing showcases – on March 18 and 19.

The main and co-main event for night one will be announced this week, while two fantastic bouts top the bill on the second night, with IBF flyweight champion Sunny Edwards (17-0, 4 knockouts), from the UK, defending his title against Muhammad Waseem (12-1, 8 knockouts), one of Pakistan’s biggest boxing stars, in the headline contest.

That will be preceded by an intriguing clash between Ireland’s WBO intercontinental super-lightweight champion Tyrone McKenna (22-2-1, 6 knockouts) and Regis Prograis (26-1, 22 knockouts), the American former super-lightweight world champion who signed to Probellum in October.

Probellum heads back to Dubai following its hugely successful inaugural event, which took place at the Coca-Cola Arena in December, hosted by legendary ring announcer Michael Buffer.

“We are absolutely delighted to be returning to Dubai for our first event of 2022,” said Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum.

“Probellum has made a huge impact in the boxing world in a short period and we have some major plans for this year, starting with these two history-making shows in Dubai.

“There was a fantastic response to our first-ever event, which took place in Dubai at the end of last year, and we know there is a big appetite for boxing in the city.

“These two shows will feature many top-quality fighters from around the world, including Sunny Edwards, Muhammad Waseem, Tyrone McKenna, and Regis Prograis. We would encourage fans to secure tickets early in order to ensure they don’t miss out on what will undoubtedly be another fantastic event.”

With the shows taking place over St Patrick’s Day weekend, there will be an Irish theme to proceedings and more of the country’s most impressive boxers, in addition to McKenna, are set to be confirmed for the event over the coming weeks.

In the lead-up to the event there will be a week-long programme of entertainment including public workouts, press conferences and weigh-ins, along with a series of activations, while The Irish Village will be introducing special offers for those fans who purchase tickets for Fight Night.

Ticket prices start from 50 AED and are available to purchase from Friday, 28th January via Platinum List or in-person at The Irish Village, Al Garhoud and Studio City.

For live news and updates, be sure to follow Probellum on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

About Probellum

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

Probellum’s elite stable includes Nonito Donaire, Lee McGregor, Donnie Nietes, Troy Williamson, Dina Thorslund, Muhammad Waseem, O’Shaquie Foster, Will Cawley, Mark Dickinson and Pat and Luke McCormack.

Since launching, Probellum has signed co-promotional partnerships with some of the biggest promoters globally, including Wasserman (Germany), Universum (Germany), GYM (Canada), Maravilla Box (Spain), Team Ellis (Australia), Titov Boxing Promotions (Russia), Volcano Boxing (El Salvador), BXSTRS Promotions (Mexico), PR Best (Puerto Rico) Glozier Boxing (New Zealand), Box Office Sports (Ghana) and LNK Boxing (Latvia).

Probellum hosted its inaugural event at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena in December 2021.

CHEATHAM COUNTY, TN (January 25, 2022) – On February 5, 2022, undefeated lightweight prospect, Tyler “Short Fuse” Tomlin (12-0, 8 KOs), of Cheatham County, TN, will take the next step in his career as he faces Charlie Serrano (16-6-2, 5 KOs), of Tampa, Florida. Tomlin vs. Serrano, a 10-round main event, will take place in Clarksville, TN, at the Winfield Dunn Center at Austin Peay University.

The show is being promoted by One-One-Six Boxing Promotions, in association with Tomlin’s promoter, DiBella Entertainment. Tickets priced $20and $40, are on sale now and can be purchased by calling (256) 458-2341. The Winfield Dunn Center is located at 601 College St. Clarksville TN, 37044.

Tomlin, who is signed by DiBella Entertainment, gives his thoughts on his recent training camp, his matchup with Serrano, and more.

On his recent training camp.

“Camp has been great from the nutrition to the training to bringing in Andres Cortes to camp to help me be as sharp as possible. I know that I invested in myself in a sport a lot of people just get by in, and that will be my edge as I move up in competition, that I didn’t cut corners that others did.”

On his upcoming bout with Charlie Serrano.

“Serrano is a fighter who’s been in the ring with a lot of good fighters and I’m expecting him to be in great shape. He’s got a lot of experience and I’m going to be ready for an explosive fight. I am a gentleman outside the ring, but I am a warrior inside. I am planning on making an example out of Charlie Serrano with a knockout.”

On Fighting at the Winfield Dunn Center.

“This venue is only 25 mins from my house so I’m expecting a sell out and lively crowd. I have been lucky enough to get a lot of local support, my community is not just a fight town, but also supports the local business that sponsor me. I know a lot of people want to see me do well, but also want to support my dream. I am from a place where we support each other, and I am lucky to have so much to fight for. I truly fight for my hometown fans who have always had my back.

On what a win will do for his career.
?
“My goal is to be in the conversation for the 2022 Prospect of the Year, and a brutal KO that goes viral will be the start of it. I am planning on fighting a lot this year, and every opponent, as well as performance, will be better than the last. This will be a major victory and get me closer to facing world ranked fighters.”

LAS VEGAS, NV (January 25, 2022) – Super bantamweight prospect, Darren “The Gift” Cunningham (14-1, 7 KOS), will make his 2022 debut, on February 25th, against battle tested veteran, Ernesto Guerrero (33-32, 19 KOs), on a card promoted by Ironboy Combat Sports. The 8-round bout will take place at the Celebrity Theater in Phoenix, Arizona.

“This is chapter two of my redemption story,” said Darren Cunningham. “A lot of people have lost a lot outside of the ring, especially since the pandemic, and I am not just fighting for my career, but also to inspire others. Hope starts with a belief, and I believe in my dream so much that I know that I am going to make it work.”

Cunningham last fought in November getting an eight-round decision over Rob Diezel (14-9, 4 KOs), as it was his first fight back after his lone career loss.

“I knew there would be doubt by some people, but I know who I am and what I am,” continued Cunningham. “I proved a loss won’t define me in my last fight, and now I am looking to put myself in the conversation with the best in the division, as those are the fights I want by the end of the year.”

Rafael Ramos, a famed Las Vegas, Nevada, boxing coach who comes from the school of Roger Mayweather, will again be guiding the corner of Cunningham as he’s now the head trainer.

“I felt a big difference having Rafael Ramos in my corner in the last fight, but obviously it takes two fights to see a difference so this fight will show the improvement,” Cunningham said about his new coach. “Coach Ramos has molded new dimensions to my style without changing what I do well. I feel very confident in his coaching and where my career is currently. I just need to make a statement, so I can get to where I want to go.”

Lawrence Okolie will make the second defence of his WBO Cruiserweight World Title against former World Title challenger Michal Cieslak at The O2 in London on Sunday February 27, shown live worldwide on DAZN (excluding New Zealand and Australia).

Hackney’s Okolie (17-0, 14 KOs) crushed Krzysztof Glowacki in six rounds to be crowned the new WBO Cruiserweight World Champion in just his sixteenth fight at The SSE Arena, Wembley in March last year.

The 29-year-old then made short work of Montenegro’s Dilan Prasovic in the first defence of his World Title on the blockbuster Anthony Joshua vs. Oleksandr Usyk card at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in September, taking out his mandatory challenger in just three rounds. 

Poland’s Cieslak (21-1, 15 KOs) suffered the one and only loss of his professional career when he took WBC Cruiserweight World Champion Ilunga Junior Makabu the distance in the Democratic Republic Of The Congo in January 2020. 

“Thank you to Cieslak for accepting the fight,” said Okolie. “I’m sure he is coming to get revenge for Glowacki! He is a good, strong campaigner who should be one of my toughest tests to date.”

On the undercard, France’s Karim Guerfi (30-5, 9 KOs) makes the first defence of his EBU European Featherweight Title against ‘The Thrill’ Jordan Gill (26-1-1, 7 KOs), with more exciting additions to be confirmed this week. 

Tickets for Okolie vs. Cieslak are priced £40, £60, £100, £150 and £250 (VIP).

Presale tickets are available to purchase for O2 Priority Members NOW via The O2 (www.theo2.co.uk)

Matchroom Fight Pass members will be able to purchase tickets from midday on Tuesday January 25. Priority ticket info has been emailed directly to eligible members.

General Sale tickets can be purchased via StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk) from midday on Wednesday January 26.

CHRIS BOURKE will challenge Marc Leach for the vacant British Super-Bantamweight championship at York Hall, Bethnal Green on Friday March 11, live on BT Sport.

Streatham’s Bourke (10-0, 6 KOs) gets his big opportunity after Queensberry stablemate Jason Cunningham relinquished his domestic crown in pursuit of world honours

He said: “Fighting for the British title in the main event on BT Sport is something I am looking forward to.

“I have been calling for the British title for a while now and I am just grateful I have got the opportunity.”

Tickets are available now directly from the fighters or at: Eventbrite.co.uk

Bourke, 27, won the WBC International title in December 2020 with a second round stoppage of Michael Ramabeletsa. In his only defence last July, the South Londoner thrashed James Beech on points over ten rounds.

The Martin Bowers trained boxer also won the Southern Area crown in July 2020 with a points win against unbeaten Ramez Mahmood.

If Chris defeats fellow southpaw Leach it could lead to big clashes against the likes of Cunningham, Brad Foster and fellow big puncher Andrew Cain.

Salford’s Leach (17-1, 4 KOs) leapt from obscurity in October 2020 when he upset 2016 Olympian Qais Ashfaq on points in a British Featherweight title eliminator.

He dropped back to Super-Bantamweight last summer for another British championship eliminator and confirmed his mandatory status with a narrow, but unanimous points win over Thomas Essomba.

Leach, 27, last boxed in December when he knocked out Stefan Nicolae after just 26 seconds of the opening round.

Bourke added: “Ashfaq is a good win and I think Marc put him down a few times. Essomba is always tricky, he takes good fighters the distance and they struggle with him.

“Marc has earned his shot and I feel I have earned mine. From the little clips I have seen he does seem awkward and technically a very good fighter.

“People in boxing will know this is a massive fight and I think people will be looking forward to it.”

Promoter Frank Warren added: “The Super-Bantamweight division is stacked and I now believe it is time for Chris to make his move.

“Marc is tricky, slippery and come through eliminators to get a deserved shot. I think Chris wins in the power department and that might be the difference.

“It’s a great way to start Queensberry’s 2022 calendar with a 50-50 British title fight and prospect stacked card at the spiritual home of British boxing.”

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 are available now directly from the fighters or at: Eventbrite.co.uk

LAS VEGAS – January 24, 2022 – Undefeated rising star Chris “Primetime” Colbert, whose mix of speed and power have quickly made him a fan favorite, will seek his first world title when he takes on WBA Super Featherweight Champion Roger “The Kid” Gutierrez in the SHOWTIME main event Saturday, February 26 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.

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 are on sale now, and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.com.

“We’ve had the pleasure of watching Chris Colbert develop from a prospect to a contender on SHOWTIME, so it’s only fitting that he will get a chance to take yet another step in his progression with a title shot against Roger Gutierrez on our network,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports and Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “Gary Antuanne Russell is following a similar recipe for stardom. If he can turn back the tough-as-nails Viktor Postol, it will be another signal that his time in the spotlight may soon be at hand. We’ve seen the destructive talents of Jerwin Ancajas on SHOWTIME before. His title defense against Fernando Martinez should be a barnburner and the perfect start to a fantastic night of boxing.”

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.

“I’m super ready for my title shot,” said Colbert. “This has been a long time coming, but it’s no shocker to me. This was always the expectation. I know Gutierrez will come to fight. He’s a champion for a reason. So he’s not coming to lay down. But I plan to put him down and I’m willing to do whatever I have to do on February 26 to make that happen. I know a lot of people have been waiting to see when I get this title shot and now it’s time.”

The 26-year-old Gutierrez (26-3-1, 20 KOs) captured his world title with a unanimous decision victory over Rene “Gemelo” Alvarado in January 2021, in a fight that saw him drop his opponent three times. Gutierrez followed up that performance by defending his world championship and defeating Alvarado a second time in August 2021, again earning a unanimous decision. Fighting out of his native Maracaibo, Venezuela, Gutierrez is unbeaten in his last seven outings, including four knockouts.

“First of all, I want to thank God, my mother, my team, my promoter and the WBA for this opportunity,” said Gutierrez. “It cost me a lot of effort to win the world championship, this is my second title defense and I am ready to give it my all to retain it. On February 26, I am going to show the world that I am the best at 130 pounds.”

Russell (14-0, 14 KOs) has yet to allow an opponent to make it the distance against him since turning pro in 2017 following his run representing the U.S. at the Rio 2016 Summer Olympics. Russell added five more stoppage victories in 2019 before knocking out Jose Marrufo in the first round in February 2020. The 25-year-old most recently dominated Jovanie Santiago in May on SHOWTIME, on his way to a sixth-round stoppage. Russell belongs to one of the sport’s preeminent fighting families and trains alongside his older brothers, former WBC Featherweight Champion Gary Jr. and bantamweight contender Gary Antonio.

“I’m going to make sure I’m prepared mentally and ready to perform at a high-level for this fight,” said Russell. “These fights come down to who’s more mentally stable, and that’s a matter of training. I train my mental as much as I do physically. I’ve watched Postol fight before and I know that he’s a rangy fighter with a European style. He likes to stay at a distance and that works best for him. He leans on his strengths. Every fight I come in planning to make a statement. My prediction, I’m ending this fight in round five.”

A feared contender in the 140-pound division, Postol (31-3, 12 KOs) returns to the ring after losing a narrow majority decision to then unified champion Jose Ramirez in August 2020. Fighting out of California and originally from Ukraine, Postol, knocked out Lucas Matthysse in 2015 to capture a super lightweight world title before losing a unification showdown against Terence Crawford. Postol has won three of his last five fights, with the only defeats in that stretch coming against Ramirez and current undisputed champion Josh Taylor, both by decision.

“I accepted this fight as soon as it was offered,” said Postol. “I haven’t fought in a while and I wanted to get back in the ring as soon as I could. I’m especially excited that I’m going to have the opportunity to face a good young opponent on February 26.”

Representing the Philippines, Ancajas (33-1-2, 22 KOs) was only 15 years old when he was spotted by boxing legend Manny Pacquiao. The young fighter blossomed with Pacquiao’s guidance, becoming the first world champion under Pacquiao’s promotional banner when he outpointed McJoe Arroyo for the IBF title in September 2016. The 30-year-old southpaw hasn’t lost since and will be making the tenth defense of his title, following an April 2021 unanimous decision over Jonathan Rodriguez.

“I am thrilled to be back on SHOWTIME defending my world title on February 26,” said Ancajas. “It’s very exciting to be making my tenth world title defense in the first Las Vegas fight of my career. I want to thank my whole team for giving me this great opportunity to fight on this PBC event on SHOWTIME.”

A resident of Buenos Aires, Argentina, Martinez (13-0, 8 KOs) most recently knocked out Gonzalo Duran in the fourth round of their August 2021 showdown and will be making his U.S. debut on February 26. The 30-year-old rose up the rankings by stopping Athenkosi Dumezweni in his home country of South Africa in 2019, following that up with a decision over Angel Aquino in December 2020. Martinez turned pro in 2017 and owns an amateur victory over former title challenger and super flyweight contender Andrew Moloney.

“I’m excited to have this great chance to show my skills on the big stage in Las Vegas,” said Martinez. “I’m going to leave it all in the ring on February 26 and give all the fans watching an exciting fight. My goal is to become world champion and this is the night for me to prove myself.”

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

QUINCY, Mass. (January 24, 2022) – Due to COVID-19, the “Showcase Boxing” main event has changed as Jeffrey Torres (9-1, 5 KOs) will now face veteran Tyrone “Hands of Stone” Luckey (15-16-4, 11 KOs) in the 8-round headliner, Saturday night, February 26, at Sheraton Hotel in Framingham, Massachusetts.

Showcasing many of New England’s most promising and popular prospects, “Showcase Boxing,” presented by Granite Chin Promotions, will be streamed live on www.bxngtv.com for $19.99.

“Showcase Boxing” will also mark Granite Chin’s first event in Massachusetts in more than 2 years, as well as being only the second professional boxing show ever in Framingham, which is located 23 miles west of Boston.

Luckey was originally scheduled to fight local favorite Nelson “Chino” Perez (5-0, 2 KOs), who has pulled out because he contracted COVID-19.

“Unfortunately,” Granite Chin Promotions president Chris Traietti explained, “we lost Perez, but Jeffrey Torres was willing to fill in for him and, to nobody’s surprise, Tyrone was willing to work with everyone to make the change possible. He’s a fighter, not one of these guys that pretends to be one on social media, posting videos of himself hitting bags or highlight reel knockouts of them beating up some 0-8 guy picked up off a job site. Tyrone is willing to test any prospect to see if they are the real deal or not. Torres comes from a giant gym, and he had a solid pedigree, so, no doubt, Tyrone will have his hands full and vice versa. This will be a fun fight!”

Luckey, fighting out of Manahawkin, NJ, is the reigning ABF USA Mid-American Super Lightweight Champion. The always dangerous Luckey has been in against top prospects such as Mike Ohan, Jr. Jamaine Ortiz, Tyler Tomlin, and Frank Martin.

Torres, a native of Puerto Rico now fighting out of New Haven (CT), has won two in a row since suffering his only pro loss to 7-0 Josh Wagner last October.

The 6-round co-featured event matches high-flying welterweight prospect Denzel “Double Impact” Whitley (7-0, 5 KOs), of Holyoke (MA), against Alfred “Keenan” Raymond (1-0), of Cranston, Rhode Island.

Denzel is a “legacy boxer” as the latest member of the “Fightin’ Whitley family,” trained by his father and uncle, Derrick and Darrin, who were respected pro fighters in New England.

Raymond, 31, made an auspicious pro debut this past November 13th, upsetting previously undefeated Julien Baptiste (3-0) by way of a 4-round split decision.

“This fight has all the makings for high action,” Traietti remarked. “’Keenan’ just upset a 3-0 prospect in his last fight, so his confidence is through the roof which makes him dangerous. On the other hand, you have Denzel looking to step up with each fight and get on television in the near future. He comes from a family with a long history if boxing. Denel really has all the pieces to be something special.”

One of the hottest welterweight prospects in the country, Boca Raton’s (FL) Josniel “TG” Castro (8-0, 6 KOs), returns to New England once again to face Mexican veteran Juan Jesus Rivera Garces (18-27, 12 KOs), the former WBC Youth World Super Lightweight Champion.

Undefeated fighters Carlos Castillo (4-0, 3 KOs), a junior middleweight from Holyoke (MA) and Pittsfield (MA) super middleweight Steve Sumpter (3-0, 3 KOs) are scheduled to fight in their first scheduled 6-rounders, respectively, versus Antonio Chaves Fernandez (9-41-4, 3 KOs) and Rodrigo “The Young Lion” Almeida (2-11, 1 KO).

Veteran middleweights Manny “Shake Em’ Up” Woods (17-15-1, 6 KOs), of Saint Petersburg (FL), and Larry “Slo Mo” Smith (12-50-4, 8 KOs), of Dallas, will open the evening in a 10-round bout.

Decorated amateur Felix Parilla (3-0, 3 KOs), of New Haven, has been added to the card in a 4-round fight against junior lightweight Weusi Johnson (3-19-1). Parrilla is a 4-time New England Golden Gloves Champion, as well as a 2018 National Golden Gloves silver medalist.

Also slated to be in action, each in 4-round matches, are light heavyweight Scott “Scotty Bomb” Lampert (2-3, 2 KOs) vs. Brazilian Leonardo Ladeira (1-6, 1 KO), Springfield (MA) super middleweight Laurent Humes (3-0, 3 KOs) vs. Juan Celin Zapata (6-20-2, 4 KOs), Pittsfield junior middleweight Jamer Jones (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. Maycon Ollder Da Silva (0-3), Framingham’s pro-debuting light heavyweight Kevin “Lucky” Lewis vs. crosstown rival Sal “The Spider” Almeida (0-14-4), and Swansea (MA) junior middleweight Anthony Andreozzi (0-2) vs. Robert Bricks (0-8).

“I am excited to showcase a big chunk of the rapidly growing Granite Chin roster,” Traietti concluded. “I have been setting out for the last 2 years to really create a roster of exciting fighters who will be regulars on major networks in the near future. If you’re looking for a night of quality, high-competitive boxing, the Sheraton on February 26h is the place to be.”

Card subject to change.

Tickets are on sale for purchase at www.TicketRiver.com (Search: SHOWCASE). Ticket prices are $50.00 (General Seating), $75.00 (Ringside), and $1,000.00 for a table of 10.

Doors open at 7:00 pm. ET with the first bout at 7:00 p.m. ET.

INFORMATION:

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

Twitter: @Granite_Chin

Las Vegas, January 20, 2022– EntroBox LLC announced today its official launch date of March 26th, 2022, at the Caribe Royale Resort, Orlando FL. The highly anticipated launch will be aired across its partnering platforms with Sinclair Broadcasting Group’s Bally Sports regional sports networks (RSNs) and Stadium, and Display Social Inc. (Display TV). EntroBox has also secured a multi-event deal with Caribe Royale Orlando for the remainder of the year through the end of 2023, establishing a major commitment to the sport of boxing in the heart of Florida.

“On behalf of my partner James Wilent (President of EntroBox) and our company, we are excited to kickoff 2022 and bring the next chapter in boxing and entertainment to the world starting at the Caribe Royale Orlando. As both an active fighter and a promoter, I can now say we are well positioned with our partners Sinclair and Display. Their core distribution capabilities in live sports, gamification, and social platforms provide the vast reach to the viewers and fans by way of the largest group of regional sports networks, digital platforms and now the metaverse. With this combination, we are set for 2022 and beyond,” said Ron “The American Dream” Johnson, EntroBox CEO and five-time World Champion.

“We look forward to EntroBox joining our growing roster of sports programming across Bally Sports and Stadium,” said Bally Sports President, Steve Rosenberg. “Their approach to the sport, impressive mix of talent and strategic vision represent unique and exciting complements to our existing lineup.”

EntroBox’s full programming schedule, which will be announced at a press conference to be held at the Caribe Royale Orlando in the next few weeks will include a consistent lineup of premium live matches along with long and short form content for linear and digital platforms. Fans will see a mix of familiar names along with some of the sports best up and coming prospects.

“We are honored to be working with EntroBox and Bally’s Sports to bring an exciting roster of world-class boxing/entertainment events to Caribe Royale Orlando throughout 2022 and 2023,” said Amaury Piedra, Managing Director, Caribe Royale Orlando. “As the premiere all-suites resort in Orlando FL with a focus on creating memorable experiences for our guests and local visitors alike, this partnership provides a unique opportunity to add even more high-quality entertainment to our extensive resort offerings.”

About: EntroBox LLC

EntroBox, is a sport and entertainment content company that connects amateur/pro athletes, entertainers, and live boxing events together with superior production quality, audience engagement, and compelling partnerships with high viewership. EntroBox’s core mission is to assist all parties in exceeding their potential, through content creation, sponsorships, and monetization platforms. Their unique approach and professional status in the sporting industry allows them to execute across diverse landscapes and businesses. EntroBox is currently launching the next evolution in boxing’s DNA, while providing a pathway for other sports to connect and monetize to the ever-changing digital world by bridging the viewership from network tv and into the metaverse. To learn more, visit www.EntroBox.com. Follow us on: Display Social, FaceBook, Instagram, Twitter

About: Caribe Royale Orlando

Located just minutes from the Walt Disney World® Resort in the nation’s number one convention and tourism destination, Caribe Royale Orlando is the only AAA Four Diamond all-suite meetings resort in Orlando FL. A TripAdvisor 2021 Travelers’ Choice Award winner – among just 10 percent of hotels worldwide to receive the distinction – the upscale Caribe Royale is emerging from a $127 million reimagination that includes a redesign and full remodeling of all of its one-bedroom suites, an all-new 50,000-square-foot ballroom (bringing the total meeting space to 220,000 square feet), an inviting new lobby and exciting new and expanded food and beverage offerings. To learn more or to book a visit, event or meeting, visit www.cariberoyale.com. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (@cariberoyale), and LinkedIn. #cariberoyaleorlando

Las Vegas – UFC^® today announced that the 10^th Annual UFC International Fight Week^™ will take place in Las Vegas from Monday, June 27, through Sunday, July 3, headlined by UFC^® 276, the 2022 UFC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and a two-day, interactive fan experience.

Included among the key highlights of the week will be the prestigious 2022 UFC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, presented by Toyo Tires^®. Held annually as part of International Fight Week, the ceremony honors the contributors and athletes who have helped shape UFC while leaving an indelible mark on the sport of mixed martial arts.

“We’re excited to announce the return of UFC International Fight Week to Las Vegas this summer and we can’t wait to provide our fans with greater access, a wide variety of activations and more memorable experiences than ever before,” UFC Chief Operating Officer Ike Lawrence Epstein said. “IFW is our annual event celebrating all things UFC and combat sports, and we couldn’t do it without our partners from the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority.”

Spanning more than 200,000 square feet of entertainment activation space, the Las Vegas Convention Center will host UFC’s fully immersive and easily accessible two-day fan experience on Friday, July 1 and Saturday, July 2.

“We’re thrilled to welcome UFC International Fight Week back to Las Vegas and to host the fan experience at the Las Vegas Convention Center,” said Steve Hill, CEO and president of the LVCVA. “UFC has been an integral part of Las Vegas’ evolution as a major sports city, and we know both the fans and fighters will enjoy a week of world-class, only-in-Vegas experiences.”

In addition, the Las Vegas Convention Center will also host the return of amateur tournaments from various disciplines, beginning on Thursday, June 23, and concluding on Sunday, July 3. The Fan Experience will be produced by global full-service cultural marketing agency 160over90.

Fans from around the world who converge on Las Vegas for International Fight Week will also be able to enjoy ceremonial weigh-ins, press conferences and live entertainment of a traditional Fight Week leading to the schedule’s culminating event, UFC^® 276, on Saturday, July 2, at T-Mobile Arena.

Plus, UFC fans can enter for their chance to win an epic UFC Dream Week at International Fight Week.  One lucky winner and a guest will win a one-of-a-kind VIP experience to UFC International Fight Week in Las Vegas including exclusive access to UFC 276, the UFC Hall of Fame Ceremony, the two-day fan experience, and much more!

Details regarding the bout card for UFC 276, event locations and additional activities for UFC International Fight Week will be announced at a later date. For more information, please visit UFCFIGHTWEEK.COM.

ugo Centeno Jr. 161.2 vs. Antonio Todd 158.2
Winfred Harris Jr. 166.8 vs. Esau Herrera 163.4
Joseph Hicks Jr. 168.4 vs. Montrel James 168.4
Gordie Russ II 153.4 vs. Leslie Michael Klekotta 156
Marlon Harrington 159.4 vs. Terry Roscoe 158.2
Quinton Randall 151.4 vs. Julian Smith 145.4
Joshua James Pagan 137.2 vs. Glenn Mitchell 136

VENUE: Ford Community and Performing Arts Center in Dearborn, MI
PROMOTER: Salita Promotions
TICKETS: $35 and $60 are still available
DOORS: 6:30 pm
STARTS: 7:00 pm
TICKETS: Tickets for “Detroit Brawl” start at $35 (service fees will apply). Order tickets online or from 5 pm to 8:30 pm at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center Box Office (313.943.2354) at 15801 Michigan Ave. 5 pm to 8:30 pm tomorrow.

PLEASE NOTE: Tickets ordered online will be mailed up to one week prior to event date. Tickets ordered within a week of event will be placed in will call in the box office for pickup. A limited quantity of VIP tickets are also available by calling Lina Kurylyuk at 313.529.7604.

POMONA, CALIF. (Jan. 21, 2022): MarvNation Promotions will host its first boxing event of the year on Saturday, Jan. 29 at the Derby Room in Pomona, Calif. The event will be headlined by rising prospect Angel “Moreno” Rodriguez (10-0, 7 KOs) of Pico Rivera, Calif. facing Jose Marrufo (12-10-2, 5 KOs) of Agua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico in an eight-round battle for the WBC USNBC Silver Super Lightweight Championship.

The entire card will be streamed live in English and Spanish on MarvNation’s official YouTube channel starting at 6:00 p.m. PT/9:00 p.m. ET. Veteran cutman Mike Rodriguez will handle commentating duties for the English stream alongside reporter Vanessa Martinez. Details regarding the Spanish commentary will be announced shortly.

Less than 100 tickets are still available. They can be purchased via Tix.com or by clicking here.

“We’re ready to take this company to another level,” said Marvin Rodriguez, CEO of MarvNation Promotions. “That’s why we’ve decided to host a show every month this year at the Derby Room starting on Jan. 29, which will feature rising talents like Angel Rodriguez, Alejandro Reyes, Raul Salomon and many more. Make sure to watch it in person or through our official YouTube channel. It’s going to be an exciting night of action.”

In the co-main event, Alejandro “Pin Pon” Reyes (5-0, 4 KOs) of Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico will take on Antonio Wattell (3-7-3, 1 KO) of Houston, Texas in a six-round 140-pound fight. Reyes hails from the renowned Westside Boxing Club in Los Angeles and possess a fan-friendly Mexican style that promises to steal the show.

Raul “Money” Salomon (8-1, 8 KOs) of Long Beach, California will look to bounce back from his only defeat in a six-round super middleweight fight against Jeremy Ramos (11-11, 4 KOs) of El Paso, Texas. Salomon was last seen in November in a close decision loss against Aaron Silva that was streamed on DAZN.

Alfredo Fernandez (6-0, 4 KOs) of Downey, California will participate in a four-round super lightweight fight against Nicaraguan slugger Osmel Mayorga (2-3, 1 KO).

Rising Mexican prospect Andy Dominguez (4-0, 2 KOs) will return in a six-round flyweight battle against Mexican warrior Jose Rodriguez Montemayor (5-5, 4 KOs).

Kyle Erwin (3-0, 2 KOs) of San Antonio, Texas will return against a soon-to-be-determined opponent in a four-round fight in the 140-pound division.

Sergio Jimenez (4-0-1, 3 KOs) of Mexico City, Mexico will fight Ray Santiago (2-8) in a four-round cruiserweight clash.

Jaivion Cardinal (4-0, 3 KOs) of Long Beach, California will battle against Tyler Jacques (0-1-1) of Orlando, Florida in a four-round super middleweight fight.

Jesus Torres Beltran (4-1, 3 KOs) of Phoenix, Arizona will take on Ryan Venable (2-9) of Martinsville, Virginia in a four-round bout in the lightweight division.

Cris Reyes (10-0, 9 KOs) of Seattle, Washington will face Argentine veteran Lucas Alejandro Mignoni (14-3, 4 KOs) in a six-round battle in the super lightweight division.

Carlos Rodriguez (1-0, 1 KO) of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico and Jerrell Nettles (1-1) will meet in a four-round cruiserweight battle.
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Moreno vs. Marrufo is an eight-round fight for the WBC USNBC Silver Lightweight Title presented by MarvNation Promotions. The event will take place on Saturday, Jan. 29 at The Derby Room in Pomona, Calif. The entire card will be streamed live in English and Spanish on MarvNation’s official YouTube channel beginning at 6:00 p.m. PT/9:00 p.m. ET.

For more information, follow MarvNation on Instagram and Twitter @MarvNation_.

Media Credentials: Media interested in attending the Jan. 29 event must be pre-approved for credentials. The credential application is available by clicking here. Media will not be credentialed on site, no exceptions.

About MarvNation
MarvNation Promotions was founded in 2014 by Marvin Rodriguez and was created with a vision to not only create concerts or boxing events, but to also create experiences for the fans. In 2018, after noticing a lack of support for many young and hungry prospects without an extensive Olympic and amateur background, MarvNation involved itself in the sport of boxing with a mission to make a way for these young prospects and develop them into top contenders and champions in the sport. Established both on a national and international level, MarvNation is here to bring you the best of boxing and live entertainment.

LAS VEGAS (January 21, 2022) – FOX Sports will air “FOX PBC Countdown” TOMORROW, Saturday, January 22 at 2 p.m. ET live on FOX ahead of the Keith Thurman vs. Mario Barrios FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View showdown taking place Saturday, February 5 from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

The behind the scenes show features comments from FOX Sports PBC talent including Brian Kenny, Lennox Lewis, Joe Goossen, Shawn Porter and Kate Abdo as they preview the highly-anticipated showdown that pits the former unified champion Thurman in his return to action as he takes on the former 140-pound champion Barrios, who will be making his welterweight debut.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and are available at axs.com.

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ABOUT THURMAN VS. BARRIOS
Thurman vs. Barrios will see former unified welterweight world champion Keith “One Time’’ Thurman return to the ring to take on former super lightweight world champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios in a 12-round welterweight showdown that headlines a jam-packed FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View lineup on Saturday, February 5 from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

In the co-feature, four-division world champion Leo “El Terremoto’’ Santa Cruz will battle Keenan “Bedo’’ Carbajal in a 10-round super featherweight match, while battle-tested all-action welterweights Abel Ramos and Josesito “Riverside Rocky’’ Lopez clash in a 10-round attraction. The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with former two-division champion Luis “Pantera” Nery battling unbeaten Carlos Castro in a 10-round super bantamweight duel.

Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

TULSA, OK (Jan. 21, 2022) — U.S. Olympian Tiger Johnson, Brooklyn-born phenom Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington and Nico Ali Walsh, grandson of “The Greatest,” are among the rising stars who will fight Saturday, Jan. 29 atHard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa.The bill is topped by the 10-round WBC 130-pound title eliminator between Robson Conceição and Xavier Martinez, and a 10-round junior lightweight co-feature featuring Mexican grinder Rene Tellez Giron and Puerto Rican contender Luis Melendez.

Conceição-Martinez and Giron-Melendez will be televised live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes (simulcast on ESPN+) at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

The following undercard bouts will stream live on ESPN+ at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT:

• Johnson (1-0, 1 KO), a 23-year-old from Cleveland, Ohio, will take on fellow unbeaten Xavier Madrid (3-0, 1 KO) in a four-round welterweight tilt. Johnson advanced to the quarterfinals at the Tokyo Olympics and turned pro last November with a fourth-round stoppage over Antonius Grable.
   
• Middleweight Ali Walsh (3-0, 2 KOs), who grabbed international headlines last year, looks to continue his unbeaten run in a four-rounder against Jeremiah Yeager (1-1-1, 1 KO).
   
• Carrington (1-0), the latest young talent from the Brownsville section of Brooklyn, makes his Top Rank debut against fellow unbeaten Steven Brown (1-0, 1 KO) in a four-round featherweight bout.
   
• Light heavyweight prospect Dante “Free Smoke” Benjamin Jr., a one-time U.S. amateur standout from Cleveland, Ohio, makes his professional debut in a four-rounder against Herman Rendon (2-0). Benjamin signed a long-term promotional contract with Top Rank last year.
   
• Featherweight prospect Haven Brady Jr. (4-0, 3 KOs) will see action in a six-rounder against an opponent to be named.
   
• Tulsa-born heavyweight Jeremiah Milton (3-0, 3 KOs) hopes to thrill the hometown fans when he takes on the well-traveled Jason Bergman (27-20-2, 18 KOs) in a six-rounder. Milton and Bergman fought on the same Top Rank-promoted card in Tulsa last April, with Milton notching a first-round knockout and Bergman losing an eventful three-round shootout against Trey Lippe Morrison.
   
• Junior lightweight Pink Tyson (11-2, 2 KOs) looks to make it three consecutive wins when she fights the durable Carla Torres (6-6) in an eight-rounder. 
   

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Tony Holden Productions, tickets starting at $49.50 are on sale now and can be purchased at tickets.hardrockcasinotulsa.com and at the Box Office at 918-384-ROCK (7625).

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 17.1 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).

WBC Featherweight World Championship – 12 Rounds

Gary Russell Jr. – 125 ½ lbs.*

Mark Magsayo – 125 ½ lbs.

Referee: Benjy Esteves; Judges: Lynne Carter (Penn.), Mark Consentino (N.J.), Henry Grant (N.J.)

*Note: Russell made the 126-pound weight limit on his second attempt.

Super Lightweight Bout – 12 Rounds

Subriel Matías – 140 ½ lbs.  

Petros Ananyan – 141 lbs.

Referee: Mary Glover; Judges: Debra Barnes (N.J.), Joseph Pasquale (N.J.), Paul Wallace (Md.)

*The fight contracted weight limit is 141 lbs.

Featherweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Tugstsogt Nyambayar – 128 lbs.  

Sakaria Lukas – 127 ½ lbs.

Referee: Edgardo Claudio; Judges: Tony Lundy (N.J.), Ronald McNair (N.Y.), Robin Taylor (N.Y.)

*The fight contracted weight limit is 128 lbs.

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ABOUT RUSSELL VS. MAGSAYO

Russell vs. Magsayo will see WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. defend his world title against top contender and WBC mandatory challenger Mark Magsayo headlining action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, January 22 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, N.J.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® tripleheader begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features a 12-round rematch between super lightweight contenders Subriel Matías and Petros Ananyan in the co-main event, plus hard-hitting featherweight Tugstsogt Nyambayar squaring-off against Sakaria Lukas in the 10-round telecast opener.

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

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (January 21, 2022) – Unbeaten prospect Evan Holyfield, the son of legendary heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield, will look to kick off what he hopes to be a big 2022 campaign when he takes on Chris Rollins in a six-round bout on the non-televised undercard this Saturday, January 22 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, N.J.

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

“My goals for 2022 are to remain undefeated and win Prospect of the Year,” said Holyfield. “I have to start by winning on January 22. I’ve been growing at a steady rate. Every time I fight I try to keep showing some type of evolution based on what I’ve been doing in the gym during training.”

Despite the large shadow created by his father’s many accomplishments, Holyfield, nicknamed “Yung Holy”, has been able to keep himself focused on his craft instead of worrying about any outside perceptions his family ties might cause.

“I don’t spend too much time thinking about creating my own lane or getting out of my dad’s shadow because I know I’m my own man and that we are different as fighters,” said Holyfield. “My brother plays in the NFL and every game they still mention my dad, even though it has nothing to do with boxing. They’re always going to mention my dad and that’s fine.

“With every fight it’s a chance for people to see who I am and see the differences between us as fighters. That’s the only thing that makes people change their minds and see who I am, is when you show them something. My dad has always been really supportive and encouraging. He’s always been there for any questions that I have. And it’s always nice to make him proud when I do well.”

Co-trained by coaches Mike Stafford and Bert Wells, Holyfield has split his training camp between the Cincinnati Golden Gloves gym and the Paul Murphy Boxing Club in Atlanta. The 24-year-old added three victories in 2021 as he now prepares for his first 2022 outing on Saturday night.

“I approach every camp seriously and with a determined mindset,” said Holyfield. “I’ve learned a lot this camp and I’m ready for January 22. I know I’m facing an opponent who’s about my height, so I think he’s going to try to use his jab a lot against me. I’m going to approach it like all of my fights, which is to do what I can to hit and not get hit. A lot of these fighters try to change their looks against me, so I’ll just have to see what he does on fight night.”

Holyfield is looking forward to the opportunity to compete on Saturday night and maintains he’s going to bring excitement to the ring, along with the ring generalship that helped make his father an all-time great in the sport.

“I’m definitely an exciting fighter,” said Holyfield. “I feel like I can adapt to any situation. I can box when I have to box, and fight when I have to fight. The main thing is to hit and not get hit and protect yourself from taking damage.”

Also on the card is another of Main Events’ prospects – undefeated LeShawn Rodriguez (12-0, 9 KOs) from Port Jefferson, NY. He will battle Sixto Suazo (9-2-1, 7 KOs) in a six-round middleweight bout.

(Danbury, CT, January 21, 2022) – In 2006 Prince George, British Columbia played host to a first of its kind sporting event called ‘The Battle of The Hockey Enforcers’. Over 2,000 fans filled the CN Centre to watch a single night fight tournament of 15 competitors – made up of enforcers from the minor pro and senior hockey leagues. The event was widely considered a success, leaving fans wanting more. A few attempts to revive the event never materialized.

A decade and a half later, the Hockey Enforcers promotional group have partnered with Jimmy and A.J. Galante to become part of the organization. The Galante family were recently the subject of a Netflix documentary spotlighting their now infamous former United Hockey League team, the Danbury Trashers. The documentary has become an instant classic in both the sports and pop culture worlds. AJ Galante, who was just 17 years old when appointed the position of President/GM of the Trashers, is now in the Professional boxing business, and also runs Champs Boxing Club in Danbury. He and his father are now known internationally for creating one of the toughest and most unique hockey teams in history. Aside from putting together two very successful seasons, they are also renowned for their marketing and ‘ahead of their time’ promotion of the ‘Bad Boys of Hockey’.

AJ Galante sees a major opportunity to once again help create something special, “I remember the buzz this event had back in 2006, even here in Danbury. I always love outside the box thinking and unique ideas, and Hockey Enforcers had all that. My father and I are beyond excited to be part of this organization.” Galante stated that the event has been rebranded as ‘Ice Wars’ and the first show is expected to take place in the spring of 2022, “Ice Wars will not be a one and done, we are basically creating a new combat sport. This won’t be the first time I got involved with something from scratch, this will be something new and different, and I believe we can entice more than just hockey fans to tune in. We are willing to take risks and try innovative ideas, and we are looking forward to listening to fans on what’s most important to them. We are a sport, but more importantly, we are entertainment.”

Galante also stated there are a lot of cities in play to host the first ‘Ice Wars’, but a decision has not been made yet by the organization. The organization has also been fielding calls from Pay-Per-View distributors to carry the events. Fans can stay up to date on all Ice Wars social media platforms – Instagram, Twitter, Tik Tok – @iceiswar.

PHILADELPHIA (January 21, 2022)–RDR Promotions kicks off its 2022 fight series with a big night of boxing that will take place on Saturday, February 26th at the 2300 Arena.

In the main event, welterweight contender Ray Robinson will take on veteran Cleotis Pendarvis in a bout scheduled for eight-rounds.

Robinson of Philadelphia, has a record of 24-3-2 with 12 knockouts. The 36 year-old Robinson will be shaking off a two-and-a-half-year layoff as he is coming off of back-to-back draws with world title challenger Egidijust Kavaliauskas (21-0) and former British Olympian Josh Kelly (9-0). In both of those fights, most observers believe that Robinson should have had his hand raised in victory. Robinson has wins over Roberto Acevedo (2-0-1), Darnell Jiles Jr. (8-0-1), Former U.S. Olympian Terrance Cauthen (36-7-1), Ray Narh (26-2), Aslanbek Kozoev (25-0-1) and Sherzodbek Almjanov (22-2).

Pendarvis of Lancaster, California has a record of 21-9-2 with nine knockouts. The 35 year-old Pendarvis is an 18 year veteran of the squared circle, and has wins over John Lewis (5-1), Hector Sanchez (18-0), Rogelio Del Torre (6-0), Michael Clark (43-7-1) and is coming off a loss to Devonte Williams on December 4th in Houston.

A packed undercard will feature a plethora of Philly-Favorites and undefeated prospects.

In six-round bouts:

Muhsin Cason (9-0, 6 KOs) of Las Vegas battles Steven Lyons (5-7-2, 2 KOs) of Larose, Louisiana in a cruiserweight matchup

Jerome Conquest (11-6, 1 KO) of Philadelphia fights Oscar Barajas (16-8-1, 8 KOs) of Mexico in a lightweight battle.

Tahmir Smalls (6-0, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia will fight an opponent to be named in a welterweight fight.

Robert Sabbagh (3-0, 2 KOs) of Brooklyn squabbles with Joel Caudle (8-6-2, 5 KOs) of North Carolina in a heavyweight scrap.

In four-round fights

Isaiah Johnson (3-0, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia will fight against an opponent to be named in a junior welterweight fight.

Rashan Adams (2-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia will take Nathan Benichou (2-7-1, 2 KOs) of Puebla, Mexico in a super featherweight fight.

Dominique Mayfield (0-1) of Philadelphia takes on Daryl Clark (1-1, 1 KO) of Houston in a heavyweight fight.

Jabril Noble (2-0, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia will fight an opponent to be named in a super featherweight bout.

Anthony Young (0-4) of Philadelphia takes on Antonio Allen (1-13-1, 1 KO) of Philadelphia in a super lightweight contest.

Tickets are $75, $100 and $150 and can be purchased at

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman:

“We know this main event fight between Michael Conlan and Leigh Wood is taking place in Nottingham, but we wanted to come to Belfast because it’s been a while since we’ve been here for a fight.

“So many times, over the years we’ve seen young fighters from Belfast come through and fill up arenas, here in the Odyssey Arena and of course fight so successfully in England and America.

“This young man, Caoimhin Agyarko, we’ve never really had the opportunity to do a proper press conference with him because of COVID restrictions and the world we live in, but we’re delighted to welcome this young man to the Matchroom Boxing and DAZN team.

“About three or four years ago, someone approached me, said we have a very special fighter here you need to look at. We get a lot of those phone calls; we’d just finished the Olympics and we were signing fighters and unfortunately, I’d never heard of Caoimhin Agyarko and didn’t sign him that day. When I watched him fight after that I kicked myself very quickly and said we missed one there.

“When the opportunity came up with Paul Ready and STN to sign him recently, we signed him immediately. He won his first title, the WBA International Title in Liverpool, great performance and I’m delighted to announce that Caoimhin Agyarko will be in major title fight on the March 12 card in Nottingham.”

Leigh Wood – Nottingham, England – 25-2, 15 KOs – making the first defence of his WBA Featherweight World Title against Michael Conlan:

“I’m not a performing monkey, I’m a fighter. I’m not a media dream, I’ve not been managed well, I’ve done it from the bottom up. I’ve earned everything off my own back the hard way. 

“In my opinion I don’t think Mick’s every been in a 50/50 fight, this is new for him, but I’ve come through those challenges. I’ve been in the bookies not favourite and come out the other side from a pressure point of view. He is right, there’s going to be a lot of people and a lot of pressure, but I thrive on pressure. My whole career I’ve been thrown in and come out the other side, we’ve got seven weeks to find out and I can’t wait.

“My greatest assets don’t even get talked about one bit, dedication, I’ve put my life on hold because boxing is everything to me. It always has been since a young age; he’s going to look at these defeats but that’s going to work in my favour. I don’t need to nit-pick through his performances, I know what I’m going to do, I know exactly what I’m going to do.

“Michael’s a great fighter, he’s had some really great wins and is going to be a really big challenge, but I know what I need to do on fight night. He’s a great champion, a great public image in Ireland, massive, all the best on fight night because he’s going to need it.

“I’ve been there before, in fights in my career, in my life. I’ve not had a promoter, anyone steering me in the right direction, I’ve not had my dad taking me to the gym from a young age. I walked in the gym on own 10/11 years old and it takes a lot to do that, to get to this point on my own. I’ve got here on my own with pure determination and grit, resilience and refusal to give up and that’s what it’s going to take to come through this fight and that’s what I do.”

Ben Davison, trainer of Leigh Wood:

“There’s a complete difference between saying I think someone’s going to lose a fight and being realistic, which is vital in my opinion. If you go the wrong way about a fight, you can lose a fight. This is a fight that if either man goes the wrong way about the fight, they can lose – that’s why it’s drawn so much, and the tickets sales are flying. It is that type of fight.

“I think it’s important to me that you have to be realistic, you have to have the mental strength to absorb that and perform at your absolute best.

“Leigh’s extremely mentally strong, I’ve worked with other elite fighters and Leigh’s got one of the best mindsets going into a fight of any fighters I’ve worked with. I believe in Leigh, and I believe in his mindset, of course.

“There’s been adjustments along the way, maturity, whatever it is – I stand on what I said. I’m not going to be deluded and say Mick can’t rack up a few rounds, of course he can. He’s a very talented boxer and very versatile fighter. I do believe that are certain tendencies and habits there that leave us with the opportunity to find that fight changing moment will happen on the night.

“I don’t think physically size will be a factor, no, although he’s not known as a strong fighter Mick is a stronger than what his record may suggest. There’s a reason why he struggles to make super-bantamweight, he’s not tiny but Leigh is a good size featherweight. I don’t think we’re going to go into the fight relying on physical attributes, it’s a tactical thing that he’s going to win this fight.”

Michael Conlan – Belfast, Northern Ireland – 16-0, 8 KOs – challenging Leigh Wood for the WBA Featherweight World Title:

“I’m in the back garden, I want to come and say what I want to say. There was no fear in me, I’m there and I’m going to talk my shit and say what I needed to say. Leigh stutters, he tries to spit things out and wasn’t making sense, but you know, it’s part of the fight game.

“I love this, this stuff gets my ready to go, I could fight right now. I’m ready to go right now, Leigh is not and doesn’t need to be until the fight night 100%. That’s the thing, I’ve stayed professional, I’ve been in training since September, I thought I was fighting in December – I kept training, stayed in shape, stayed fit. March 12 you’ll hear I’m the new and that’s all I want to say.

“I know exactly what it’s like fighting under that pressure of fighting at home, I’ve done it three times and every show has been massive. Loads of people there, so much expectation, a purpose-built arena in a park. This guy doesn’t understand it, he’s never felt it, you can see his demeanour has changed from yesterday.

“He doesn’t understand the pressure’s that come with fighting in your home city, he had the opportunity to fight at MSG and he can come to Belfast and fight if he wanted to. But no, he wants to fight in Nottingham, in the City Ground before he retires. He knows I can beat him.

“There’s possibilities in anybody losing, anybody, I’m not going to say it’s impossible, but he will not beat me it’s as simple as that. I really respect him as a fighter and a person, but again fuck all that until the fight is over. Once the fight is over, shake his hand. Happy days, can’t wait.

“I’m ready to go right to the end, it doesn’t matter, this fight means everything to me. I’ve taken myself away from both my children, the first time I’ve seen them in four weeks was last night and it’ll be the last time I see them in seven weeks until the fight. This is my life, the only thing I know is boxing, believe me on March 12 I’ll be the new, 100%.

“This is the start of my journey to become the best fighter in the world, once I win this belt, I’ll go on to do what I have to do after. I have to win this belt first before I even have to think about that.”

Jamie Conlan, Conlan Boxing:

“We know we’re the B side in this, we didn’t fly on private jets this morning, we flew on nice British Airways with the security lads – it was a very tight squeeze. We said yesterday what this means to the family, to Michael, to Ireland.

“Michael has carried the flag of Ireland from 2012, pressure on his shoulders that other fighters cannot comprehend. Leigh can’t comprehend the pressure Michael’s had to fight under, whether it’s through the Olympics of World Championships as an amateur, under the microscope as a professional, making his debut headlining a card.

“No one does that, that brings scrutiny and more eyeballs to you which is very hard to match, he’s had to learn in front of everybody and learn the hard way because he’s been open to criticism and scrutiny. This was all worth it to get to this point because there was a lot of learning, ups and downs during the four years he’s been pro.

“We’ve done it across America, over here, now we’re going to Nottingham. As I said yesterday, this is destiny, going to the opponent’s backyard and becoming a legend, creating a legacy. Ripping it away from him in front of his family and friends, the people he’s crowd up with, it doesn’t get much sweeter.

“We’re working-class kids from West Belfast, it’s an area that breeds them tough, we’ve come through tough times. It’s engrained in us, everyone in this room has got a bit of fight that they don’t have in places like Nottingham. This is a tough city; they breed them hard.

“He’s going to get everything checked, I expect this to be his toughest test, Leigh Wood is a fantastic fighter – the hardest hitting featherweight in the world I’ve heard Ben say. Harder hitting than Oscar Valdez he said yesterday, he’s going to test Michael in different way, no doubt about it.

“He’s strong, he’s tall, he’s bigger, he’s got every advantage, they think he’s more skilful. They think he’s got every advantage to Michael so it’s exciting. It adds to the intrigue, it adds to proving people wrong and the big ship we have on our shoulder.

“It’s going to be so good when March 12 comes, sitting 11-12 o’clock at night with the new WBA World Featherweight Champion and a nice big f*ck you to everyone else.

“Everything I stated yesterday was true, I gave him the opportunity to own up and he didn’t, so he lied. Everything he says from here on in I don’t believe, it’s bullsh*t.

“I like Leigh and I like Ben, but everything I stated was true. We also have more proof, screenshots from texts stating Ben’s doubts of Leigh Wood. I believe Ben believes in Leigh’s power; does he believe in anything else? No, he doesn’t.”

Caoimhin Agyarko – Belfast, Northern Ireland – 10-0, 7 KOs – undefeated Middleweight contender:

“Another Irish card, it was a great win for me last time out, a great learning fight, an unbeaten opponent who came to fight. Obviously, I could have performed better but thankfully I’m out in quick succession and looking to improve from that win.

“The Belfast fans have always supported me the amateurs and now into my professional career. I saw in Liverpool it was very noisy when I was fighting, and I expect the same in Nottingham – especially with Mick on the card. It’s a great card for me to be on, by the end of the year I want to be headlining shows or fighting back home in Belfast and giving them some great nights.

“I have said in the past that I’m a ten-fight novice, another two of three step ups and I’ll be ready to headline shows back home. I put myself in the top 15 in the world and that’s where I wanted to be by the end of 2021. Heading in 2022 it’s to go and get some names on the record.

“An Irish invasion, every person at this press conference will be at the fight and plenty more. It will be a very noisy and I can’t to relish the moment, hopefully have a good performance and a good win.”

Tickets for Wood vs. Conlan are priced £40, £60, £80, £100, £150 and £300 (VIP).

General Sale tickets can be purchased via StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk) NOW.

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (January 20, 2022) – WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. and unbeaten top challenger Mark Magsayo went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference before they meet in the SHOWTIME main event this Saturday, January 22 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, N.J.

The press conference also featured super lightweight contenders Subriel Matías and Petros Ananyan, who meet for a rematch in the 12-round co-main event, plus hard-hitting featherweight contender Tugstsogt “King Tug” Nyambayar and once-beaten contender Sakaria Lukas, who square off in the 10-round telecast opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

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

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from the Music Box at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, N.J.:

GARY RUSSELL JR.

“At the end of the day, I’m a gladiator and I love what I do. I love showing the skillset that I bring to the sport of boxing. Nothing has come easy for us. This is not unfamiliar territory for me or my family.

“There are no concerns about ring rust. I’m always in the gym. I haven’t taken two months off from training since I was about four or five. Boxing is not just what I do, it’s a lifestyle for me.

“If I go out there and I destroy Mark on Saturday, then the big fights that I want, those fighters won’t be in a rush to face me, not that they are now anyway. I’m always trying to give the same message when I enter the ring. I believe in intellect over athleticism, no matter the situation.

“Mark is actually willing to put it all on the line. He’s going to go out there and give it his best. A lot of other fighters want to hide from the best. But I know Mark wants this badly. It’s a pleasure to share the field of battle with him.

“He said he’s going to show his skills and that’s what I’m looking forward to. I wish other fighters would step up like he did. That’s what the sport of boxing needs.

“I’m competing in the first month of the year, so if we can get through the fight injury-free, we’re going to try to swing back around this summer. I just need a willing opponent. I’m willing to move up in weight, but if I move up, I want to compete against another champion.”

MARK MAGSAYO

“Gary is a really good fighter. I’ve wanted to fight him for a long time. Now the opportunity is here and I can’t wait for the fight. I’m not expecting any ring rust from Gary Russell.

“I think I’m the fighter who wants to beat him more than anyone else has. I’m here to give him his second loss on Saturday night.

“I can fight and I can adjust. I have speed just like Gary does. On Saturday, we’ll put our skills up against each other.

“Manny Pacquiao is my idol, ever since I was a kid. I started training at eight-years-old because of him to one day become world champion. Now that time is here. I’m so happy that Manny signed me to his promotional company and I’m grateful.

“I learned a lot from the Julio Ceja fight. I showed that I can adjust, that I can brawl and that I can box when I have to. That fight has helped me so much.

“It’s great to have Freddie Roach and Marvin Somodio helping me every day. I thought that I already knew boxing, but when I came to the gym they corrected my mistakes and made me a much more accurate puncher.

“Filipinos are born strong, we are warriors. I’m going to bring that attitude and that mentality into the fight.”

SUBRIEL MATIAS

“This is a great opportunity for me to show the world who I am. I’m so excited that my mom is here to watch me fight for the first time in the U.S. I’m excited and I’m ready. Saturday is showtime.

“On Saturday you’re going to see my improvements. All of the questions about me and about what happened in the first fight, they’re going to be answered in this fight.

“It’s either him or me, but one of us is getting knocked out. I need to make this a big victory to redeem myself and my career.

“I’ve always promised my mother since we started boxing that I’m going to buy her a home of her own. I haven’t done that yet, but I promise I’m going to fulfill that promise.

“Everyone knows how I fight and that I’m a fan-friendly fighter. That’s not going to change, but I’m so much better in so many ways and I’m going to display my skills in this fight.”

PETROS ANANYAN

“This fight is a very good opportunity for me. I’m ready to give everyone a big fight. I have to thank Matias, because he’s giving me this chance to fight him again on a big stage like this.

“Everyone knows it’s been difficult through the pandemic and I’ve been wanting this fight throughout the whole time. I promise I’m going to be ready on Saturday night. I’ve been waiting for a long time for this one.

“I’m just taking it one step at a time. I want to be world champion one day, but those fights don’t matter to me yet. It’s all about this fight on Saturday night.

“I believe in my heart that I’m ready. I just love to fight. Knockout or not, it doesn’t matter. I’m going to show my skills and give it my all to win this fight. This is the kind of fight that boxing needs.”

TUGSTSOGT NYAMBAYAR

“I believe in myself and I’m excited to take advantage of this great opportunity for me. I’m ready to give everyone a great fight.

“I’ve seen what I needed to see from Lukas. I’m going to do everything I can to win this fight and I’m confident in the result.

“I would definitely love another fight against Gary Russell Jr. I want the winner of the main event. I’m focused on my fight, but I want another shot at the title.”

SAKARIA LUKAS

“This is the stage where I want to be. I’m ready to go on Saturday night. I don’t want to go back, I want to stay on this stage and keep climbing.

“Styles make fights. This is short notice for me, so I’m just prepared to go in and do what I do best. Anything can happen. Talk is cheap, it’s a different story when you get smacked in the face.

“It’s been my dream since I was young to fight on events like this in the U.S. I have to leave it all in the ring and make sure there is no doubt about what I can do after Saturday night.”

#

ABOUT RUSSELL VS. MAGSAYO
Russell vs. Magsayo will see WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. defend his world title against top contender and WBC mandatory challenger Mark Magsayo headlining action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, January 22 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, N.J.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® tripleheader begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features a 12-round rematch between super lightweight contenders Subriel Matías and Petros Ananyan in the co-main event, plus hard-hitting featherweight Tugstsogt Nyambayar squaring-off against Sakaria Lukas in the 10-round telecast opener.

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

January 20, 2022 – ST. PETERSBURG, FL – Keith “One Time” Thurman has declared his intention to return to the top of the boxing world as he steps back into the ring on Saturday, February 5 for the first time since his 2019 performance against Manny Pacquiao. Thurman takes on former champion Mario Barrios in the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View main event live from the Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. To purchase the pay-per-view go to FoxSports.com/ppv (fight fans watching outside of the U.S. can purchase through Fite.TV).

In a training camp video, Thurman showcases, and elaborates on, his declaration and offers a glimpse of his training camp fitness routine.

“Boxing is my American Dream come true,” proclaimed Thurman during one of his training sessions at his home boxing gym, the St. Pete Boxing Club. “This is my life, this is my passion, this is what I do. This is where I put my blood, my sweat, my tears. It’s why I wear red, white, and blue every time I fight.”

“The sport of boxing, my legacy, is not over. The story is still being written. In 2022 we have a new chapter for Keith Thurman…With a belt, without the belt, I’m one of the greatest welterweights in the world today.

“This sport is one of the toughest in the world. If you’re looking for action. If you’re looking for entertainment, you’re going to want to watch our show on February 5.”

#

ABOUT THURMAN VS. BARRIOS
Thurman vs. Barrios will see former unified welterweight world champion Keith “One Time’’ Thurman return to the ring to take on former super lightweight world champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios in a 12-round welterweight showdown that headlines a jam-packed FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View lineup on Saturday, February 5 from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

In the co-feature, four-division world champion Leo “El Terremoto’’ Santa Cruz will battle Keenan “Bedo’’ Carbajal in a 10-round super featherweight match, while battle-tested all-action welterweights Abel Ramos and Josesito “Riverside Rocky’’ Lopez clash in a 10-round attraction. The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with former two-division champion Luis “Pantera” Nery battling unbeaten Carlos Castro in a 10-round super bantamweight duel.

Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

LAS VEGAS (January 20, 2022) — RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS® will stream the semifinals of World Cup Boxing Series (WCBS) inaugural “4-Man Lightweight Tournament,” presented by Roy Jones Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions, live and exclusively on February 24 from Palenque De La Expo in Ciudad Obregon, Sonora, Mexico.

RJJ Boxing’s fourth consecutive year streaming on UFC FIGHT PASS will commence with an All-Latino, lightweight card, headlined by the WCBS semifinal round.

RJJ Boxing was the first boxing promotional company to sign a live and exclusive streaming deal with UFC FIGHT PASS, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. To sign-up for UFC FIGHT PASS, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com.

“I know I speak for the entire RJJ Boxing organization when I say how excited and thrilled we all are to kick-off our 2022 season in Mexico, especially with this line-up of warriors,” RJJ Boxing president Lisa Veltre said. “I have had the honor of watching some of these fighters climb the ranks over the past year and it truly is an honor to witness how they have earned their position in this tournament. All of their blood, sweat and tears will be showcased in the square circle come February 24th. To be able to showcase talent like this to the world, thanks to the UFC FIGHT PASS, is going to be a thrill in and of itself.”

The World Boxing Council (WBC) is sanctioning the WCBS’ “4-Man lightweight Tournament,” created by CEO Terry Hollan and matchmaker Guy Taylor, and the winner will be crowned the WBC Latino Lightweight Champion, as well as positioned in the WBC’s top 15 ratings.

The WCBS “4-Man Tournament” semifinals matchups have been announced: Luis “Koreano” Torres (14-0, 9 KOs) vs. Rodolfo “Rudy” Flores (14-5, 6 KOs), Alberto “El Alacan” Ruiz (11-4, 8 KOs) vs. Isai “Gaga” Hernandez (11-2-2, 7 KOs).

Semifinal’s action will be contested in 8-round bouts, 10 rounds for the championship final. The WCBS will also feature one “overtime” round, if needed, to declare a winner in the event of a draw upon the conclusion of the scheduled distance.

WCBS will also be offering a “Fight of the Night” and “Knockout” bonuses to each contestant through the duration of its “4-Man Lightweight Tournament.”

The 20-year-old Torres, a former WBC Youth Silver lightweight champion, is the pre-tournament favorite.

Flores, 26, has notable victories, both by way of decision, over Jesus Acosta Zazueta (16-5-2) and Jairo Lopez (18-5).

Ruiz upset 15-0 WBC Latino Lightweight Champion Jair Valtierra by way of a fifth-round knockout to capture the crown last August, which he has since lost in a non-title fight, which left this coveted title vacated for the tournament victor.

Excluding a “no-contest” in his last fight against 13-0-1 Francisco Lopez, Hernandez goes into the tournament having won five of his last six fights.

Torres and Ruiz will be fighting at home in Obregon.

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“It was a big surprise when we got the call from Roy Jones Jr., Boxing president Lisa Veltre asking if we’d like to be the opening show on UFC FIGHT PASS to kick-off its 2022 season,” Taylor remarked. “It’s a great opportunity and platform and we at World Cup Boxing Series thank RJJ Boxing, Lisa, and UFC FIGHT PASS for this opportunity.”

Also scheduled to be streamed on RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS are a pair of tantalizing light matches.

Venezuelan knockout artist Fradimil Macayo (15-1, 13 KOs) clashes with his unbeaten Mexican opponent, Armando Ramirez (5-0-1,2 KOs) in an 8-round bout.

Undefeated 19-year-old prospect Jorge “Jorgito” Cota (6-0, 4 KOs), the youngest in the famed Mexican fightin’ Montiel family, led by his grandfather Fernando Montiel, battles Guatemalan challenger Rene “Kampana” de Leon Mazariegos (7-3, 4 KOs), in a scheduled 6-rounder.

Cota, who was 140-10 as an amateur, is following in the footsteps of his Montiel (54-6-2, 39 KOs from 1996-2016), a 5-time, 3-division (flyweight, super flyweight, and bantamweight) World champion.

INFORMATION:

Websites: http://www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com

Facebook: : /WorldCupBoxingSeries

Twitter: @RoyjonesJRfa @RoyJonesJrOfficial

Instagram: @RoyJonesJrBoxing, @World_Cup_Boxing_Series

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

ABOUT UFC FIGHT PASS®: UFC FIGHT PASS® is the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. Since launching in 2013, FIGHT PASS is now available in more than 200 countries and territories. FIGHT PASS provides its members with unlimited access to exclusive, live UFC FIGHT PASS Prelims; live mixed martial arts and combat sports from around the world; original series and historical programming; special features, in-depth interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and up-to-the minute reports on the world of combat sports. FIGHT PASS subscribers also have 24/7 access to the world’s largest fight library, featuring more than 17,000 bouts from dozens of combat sports organizations, as well as every fight in UFC history. Fight fans can access FIGHT PASS on personal computers, iOS and Android mobile devices, Apple TV, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Sony TVs with Android TV. For more information, please visit https://www.ufc.tv/page/fightpass.

NEW YORK (Jan. 20, 2022) — Three future fistic superstars are set to unite under the Madison Square Garden spotlight.

Brooklyn-born super middleweight sensation Edgar “The Chosen One” Berlanga will defend his NABO belt against crafty Canadian Steve Rolls in the 10-round main event Saturday, March 19 at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden. Berlanga, whose family hails from San Juan, Puerto Rico, makes his main event debut in his stiffest test to date.

In the junior middleweight co-feature, 19-year-old Puerto Rican star Xander Zayas will fight in his first scheduled eight-rounder against Louisiana-born spoiler Quincy “Chico” LaVallais.

The eight-round televised opener will see the return of lightweight U.S. Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis against Mexican veteran Esteban Sanchez.

Berlanga-Rolls, Zayas-LaVallais and Davis-Sanchez will air live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes (simulcast on ESPN+) at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with DiBella Entertainment, tickets starting at $51 go on sale Friday, Jan. 28 at 12 p.m. ET and can be purchased by visiting Ticketmaster.com or MSG.com.

“Edgar, Xander and Keyshawn are future pound-for-pound superstars, and it will be a special evening in front of a sold-out New York City crowd,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “All three are in there with the toughest fights of their respective careers, but I expect them to pass with flying colors.”

Berlanga (18-0, 16 KOs) took the boxing world by storm with 16 straight first-round knockouts to open his pro career. He went the distance twice in 2021, opening his campaign in April by knocking down Demond Nicholson four times in eight rounds in an ESPN-televised rout. Berlanga returned on the Tyson Fury-Deontay Wilder III card in October, defeating Marcelo Esteban Coceres via 10-round unanimous decision despite suffering a torn biceps in the third round and the first knockdown of his career in the ninth.

Berlanga said, “I’m so excited to fight in my first main event in my hometown. It’s a dream come true for a fighter representing New York City and Puerto Rico. I can’t wait to show the world what I’m truly about. We are going to blow the roof off the Hulu Theater, so grab your tickets early and get your popcorn ready for this performance.”

Rolls (21-1, 12 KOs), a 37-year-old from Toronto, is an 11-year pro who was an undefeated middleweight contender before moving up in weight. In June 2019, he challenged pound-for-pound stalwart Gennadiy Golovkin at Madison Square Garden and found some success in the second round before being stopped in the fourth. Rolls has tallied two wins since the Golovkin bout, most recently knocking out Christopher Brooker in the ninth round last month on the Artur Beterbiev-Marcus Browne undercard in Montreal.

Rolls said, “I’m happy to be back headlining at Madison Square Garden. Training camp has been going well, and I feel very strong with nothing but war on my mind. Berlanga has power, but I’ll be ready for whatever he brings. I’m looking forward to March 19. I’ll see you then.”

Zayas (12-0, 9 KOs) had a breakthrough 2021, going 6-0 with four knockouts while being mentioned prominently in Prospect of the Year debates. He made his Madison Square Garden debut last December and finished his 2021 campaign by knocking out Alessio Mastronunzio in the first round. He steps up against LaVallais (12-2-1, 7 KOs), who notched a December 2020 upset over Clay Collard at the MGM Grand Bubble. LaVallais, who is 2-2 since the Collard victory, has never been knocked out.

Zayas said, “It’s an honor to fight again at Madison Square Garden, where I know my Puerto Rican people will come out to show their support. 2021 was a great year, but I’m looking forward to an even bigger 2022. Quincy LaVallais is a solid veteran, so I can’t overlook him. I want to make a major statement on March 19.”

Davis (4-0, 3 KOs), from Norfolk, Virginia, won three bouts in the first five months of 2021 before journeying to Tokyo and earning a silver medal. He then signed a long-term promotional contract with Top Rank and improved to 4-0 with a second-round stoppage over Jose Zaragoza on December 11. Davis makes his 2022 debut against Sanchez (18-1, 8 KOs), a 23-year-old from Ensenada, Mexico, who has won two straight bouts and will be making his American debut.

Davis said, “I put on a show at Madison Square Garden in December, and I’m going to do it again. Esteban Sanchez is supposed to be my hardest fight as a pro, but it’s going to be easy work. The Davis Brothers are coming to represent Norfolk and leave no doubt that we are the future of boxing.”

Undercard action will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+ and is scheduled to include a host of undefeated talents, including Puerto Rican junior welterweight John “El Terrible” Bauza (16-0, 7 KOs) in an eight-rounder, welterweight and Berlanga’s New York City stablemate Pablo “Pretty Boy” Valdez (6-0, 5 KOs) in a six-round attraction, Puerto Rican junior lightweight Henry “Moncho” Lebron (14-0, 9 KOs) in an eight-rounder, and a four-rounder featuring junior welterweight Kelvin Davis (3-0, 2 KOs).

ALL GUESTS AGE 5 AND OLDER are required to provide proof they have received either two doses of a two-shot COVID-19 vaccination, or one dose of a single-shot vaccine. 

Fully vaccinated guests are not required to wear a mask. Please note that full COVID-19 vaccination means the day of your event is at least 14 days after your final vaccine dose. Everyone else age 2 and older is required to wear a mask while in the venue, except while actively eating or drinking. 

Government mandates, venue protocols and event requirements are also subject to change, so be sure to continue to check MSG.com for the latest information. 

BOSTON (January 20, 2022) – Undefeated lightweight RayJay “The Destroyer” Bermudez (15-0, 11 KOs) recently gained invaluable experience sparring World Boxing Council (WBC) Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell, Jr. (31-1, 18 KOs) at his Washington D.C. training camp.

Bermudez is the reigning ABF American West and NBA Continental champion, fighting out of Albany, New York. He is scheduled to fight an opponent to be determined in an 8-round bout February 12th in Saint Augustine, New York, on a card presented by Christy Martin Promotions.

“He (Russell) is very, very fast, skilled, and he knows when to punch,” Bermudez spoke about the 2 weeks he served as Russell’s sparring partner. “Sharing the ring with him I learned how confident and composed he is. He’ll stay right there (pocket) and remain composed at all times. He’s also very humble. He doesn’t walk about acting like he’s entitled.

“He has tremendous speed, but he can pop, too. I think he’s the whole package, who has a great IQ and more power than people think. Gary was the first big name I’ve sparred with. He was very gracious, and I learned from watching how he prepares.”

Russell will make his sixth World title defense this Saturday against Mark Magsayo (23-0, 16 KOs) in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

“This was a great experience for RayJay to spar with one of the best boxers in the world,” Roach added. “Just being around world champions mentally elevates a fighter. We talked while he was down there, and he said the work was great.”

RayJay is trained by his uncle, Hector Bermudez, who has cornered several world champions, including TJ Doheny and Javier Fortuna.

Fighter Locker’s growing stable of gifted boxers also includes California super flyweight Rocco “So Cal Kid” Santomauro (21-1, 6 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. (9-0, 5 KOs), Massachusetts featherweight Troy Anderson, Jr. (3-0, 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. (5-0, 5 KOs), Irish light heavyweight Tommy “The Kid” O’Toole (2-0, 2 KOs), Texas super lightweight Miranda “La Alacrana” Reyes (5-0-1, 2 KOs), Kansas City (KS) brothers Marcus (2-0, 2 KOs), a lightweight, and pro-debuting lightweight Marcell, 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

TWITTER: @RoachRyan

INSTAGRAM: @RyanRoach82

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.

LOS ANGELES – Headlined by No. 4-ranked Neiman Gracie (11-2) taking on No. 5-ranked Logan Storley (12-1) in a clash of top-10 welterweights, BELLATOR MMA 274: Gracie vs. Storley has announced five new scintillating matchups to the nine-bout extravaganza taking place Saturday, Feb. 19 live on SHOWTIME.

In the co-featured bout from inside the Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Conn., former BELLATOR Welterweight World Champion and No. 8-ranked Andrey Koreshkov (24-4) will return to action and open his 2022 campaign against undefeated Mukhamed Berkhamov (14-0). The main card also will feature 44-fight veteran Georgi “Insane” Karakhanyan (31-12-1) taking on Northern California’s Adam “The Bomb” Piccolotti (12-4) in a battle between two promotional staples. Lastly, opening the main card will be a pair of returning BELLATOR MMA heavyweights who find themselves tied at No. 8 in the official rankings as three-time promotional veteran and American Top Team standout Said Sowma (8-2) squares off against undefeated Jackson Wink product Davion Franklin (4-0).

In addition to the jam-packed main card, five newly announced preliminary fights have been added to the already-stacked night of action, including Brennan Ward (14-6) making his long-awaited return to the BELLATOR MMA cage following a nearly five-year layoff in a 175-pound contract weight bout against feisty Kentuckian Brandon Bell (10-10).

Also featured will be longtime UFC standout and Russian native Justine Kish (7-4) making her BELLATOR MMA debut against No. 8-ranked DeAnna Bennett (11-7-1) in a flyweight fracas featuring two fighters with Los Angeles ties. Top light heavyweight prospect Christian Edwards (5-1) also makes his 2022 debut when he welcomes Kevin Haley (5-5) to the BELLATOR fray.

Rounding out the preliminary contests, No. 9-ranked lightweight Aviv Gozali (6-0) of Israel will put his unblemished record on the line against BANG Muay Thai black belt Bobby King (10-4) of Utah, while two fighters making their second BELLATOR appearances will square off when Isaiah Hokit (0-1) moves down to featherweight to battle Theodore Macuka (1-2), who will celebrate his 22^nd birthday nine days before the event. Lastly, opening the thrilling night of MMA action, Wisconsin native Jordan Newman (3-0) will strive to provide his Floridian opponent Cody Herbert (2-0) with his first pro blemish in a massive middleweight melee.

SHOWTIME will televise the BELLATOR MMA 274: Gracie vs. Storley main card live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. Additionally, the thrilling preliminary fights will stream live three hours earlier on the BELLATOR MMA YouTube channel, SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and Pluto TV beginning at 6 p.m. ET/3p.m. PT.

Tickets for BELLATOR MMA 274: Gracie vs. Storley are on sale now and can be purchased at both Ticketmaster.com and Bellator.com.

Following a lengthy MMA hiatus, “Irish” Brennan Ward will make his dramatic return to fight in his home state of Connecticut. By far one of the most entertaining fighters in BELLATOR history, the former Division III All-American wrestler has finished his opponent in 12 of his 14 victories, including nine in the first round. Although he has taken some time off, the former BELLATOR Season Nine Middleweight Tournament Winner is eager to remind people what made him a title contender prior to his time away.

Born in Orem, Utah, DeAnna “Vitamin D” Bennett will make her 2022 debut and third appearance under the BELLATOR MMA banner. The 37-year-old Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu purple belt enters the Feb. 19 fight fresh off a huge win over former top contender Alejandra Lara at BELLATOR MMA 266 in San Jose, Calif. Bennett would go on to dedicate the unanimous decision victory to her late father, who served as a San Jose police officer and worked events at the SAP Center where Bennett’s bout was held. Now, the former Invicta FC veteran will look to build off her recent triumph and climb the ranks in BELLATOR’s stacked 125-pound division.

Following a five-year stint with the rival promotion, seven-time UFC veteran Justine Kish joined forces with BELLATOR MMA by signing a multi-fight deal in January 2021. After making an appearance on “The Ultimate Fighter 20,” the 33-year-old was awarded a UFC contract. Fighting out of Los Angeles, Kish went 2-1 in her strawweight matchups, including a notable win over Nina Nunes prior to returning to the flyweight class in 2018.

Undefeated Israeli sensation Aviv Gozali (6-0) will make his return to the BELLATOR cage in search of his seventh straight victory. Since making his professional debut at BELLATOR MMA 209 back in 2018, “The King” has amassed six first round submissions (all under the BELLATOR MMA banner), including two in the opening minute of action and a record-setting 11-second Heel Hook victory. Hailing from Bat Yam, Israel, the 21-year-old lightweight is on the cusp of superstardom as he continues his ascension to the top of the BELLATOR rankings.

Fighting out of Layton, Utah, Bobby King is locked in for the biggest fight of his career as he prepares for his first top-10 opponent. With victories in four of his past five and eight of his last 10 contests, the 38-year-old BANG Muay Thai product and Hawaiian submission specialist is on the brink of joining the lightweight division’s elite. A true thrill-seeker, King also spends time outside of the cage as a professional Fire-Knife Dancer, a traditional Samoan cultural dance that is typically performed in ceremonial processions.

A former standout wrestler at Fresno State, Isaiah Hokit signed with BELLATOR MMA in November 2020 and hails from a talented athletic family. His brother Josh Hokit is a practice squad player for the San Francisco 49ers and was called up to the pro squad during the 2020-21 NFL season. Following a tough loss in his BELLATOR MMA debut, the “Central Valley Gangster” hopes to even out his pro record on Feb. 19.

Also hoping to up his record to an even .500 at BELLATOR MMA 274, Theodore Macuka has survived a number of challenges, including an automobile’s stick shift becoming lodged in his abdomen during a car accident at a young age. After growing up and targeted as an Albanian-American in a foreign country, “The Headtaker” turned pro in July 2019 and stopped his counterpart Rikardo Hysenaj on punches at 0:36 of the opening round.

Returning to the BELLATOR MMA cage for the fourth time in as many bouts, Jordan Newman has commenced his professional career with two stoppages among three triumphs. Following a hard-fought victory in his last bout over Branko Busick at BELLATOR MMA 255 in April 2021, the 25-year-old became the first BELLATOR MMA fighter to earn a win in the SHOWTIME era.

Currently fighting out of Crestview, Fla., Cody Herbert (2-0) will be making his BELLATOR debut following two bare knuckle MMA fights in Florida late in 2021.

****

BELLATOR MMA 274: GRACIE VS. STORLEY MAIN CARD:

Saturday, Feb. 19 – live on SHOWTIME

9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT

Welterweight Main Event: #4-Neiman Gracie (11-2) vs. #5-Logan Storley (12-1)

Welterweight Co-Main Event: #8-Andrey Koreshkov (24-4) vs. Mukhamed Berkamov (14-0)

Lightweight Bout: Georgi Karakhanyan (31-12-1) vs. Adam Piccolotti (12-4)

Heavyweight Bout: #8–Davion Franklin (4-0) vs.#8-Said Sowma (8-2)

PRELIMINARY CARD:

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

6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT

Lightweight Bout: Mandel Nallo (8-1, 1 NC) vs. Nick Browne (12-1)

Light Heavyweight Bout: Christian Edwards (5-1) vs. Kevin Haley (6-6)

Bantamweight Bout: Jaylon Bates (4-0) vs. Chris Disonell (6-4)

Lightweight Bout: #9 Aviv Gozali (6-0) vs. Bobby King (10-4)

Flyweight Bout: #8 DeAnna Bennett (11-7-1) vs. Justine Kish (7-4)

175-Pound Contract Weight Bout: Brennan Ward (14-6) vs. Brandon Bell (10-10)

Middleweight Bout: Jordan Newman (3-0) vs. Cody Herbert (2-0)

Lightweight Bout: Justin Montalvo (4-0) vs. Corey Samuels (3-2)

Featherweight Bout: Isaiah Hokit (0-1) vs. Theodore Macuka (1-2)

Welterweight Bout: Orlando Mendoza (0-1) vs. Jonathan Di Lorenzo (1-0)

*Card subject to change.

Please visit Bellator.com for additional information.

****

Updated schedule of BELLATOR events

Sat. Jan. 29 // BELLATOR 273: Bader vs. Moldavsky // Footprint Center // Phoenix, Ariz.

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

Fri. Feb. 26 // BELLATOR 275: Mousasi vs. Vanderford // 3Arena // Dublin, Ireland

Fri. May 13 // BELLATOR LONDON: Amosov vs. MVP // The SSE 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. 

KO King Anthony Yarde (22-2, 21 KOs) is the no.1 contender for American Joe Smith Jr.’s WBO World Light-Heavyweight title, and that fight is likely to happen this year.

The Ilford man is now on a mission to clean up the 175lb division after knocking out Lyndon Arthur in four rounds last month, getting revenge for a controversial points loss one year earlier.

His trainer Ajayi told Dev Sahni on The Lowdown said: “The longer Anthony has to prepare and get better no one is beating him. I believe this in my heart.

“When the time is right, because everything is timing, Anthony Yarde will beat all the guys in a fashion where he we won’t leave no doubt, just like Lyndon Arthur.”

Yarde’s outspoken trainer added: “I have said it over the years, ‘Tunde Ajayi has never trained a fighter to win on points’. Anthony’s record speaks for it. Anthony is a knockout merchant.

“I didn’t see anything new from Joe Smith Jr in his defence against Steve Geffrard. Anthony Yarde is a different proposition.”

“Like us he has come up the tough way and always had his back against the wall. He is a fighter continually getting better having dethroned some legends of the sport.

“We went up against a legend (Sergey Kovalev) and come up short. Joe Smith came up against one, Bernard Hopkins and knocked him out.

“From my perspective Frank Warren will do what he always does and deliver. The WBO have said Joe Smith has to fight Anthony Yarde next.

“People expect Anthony Yarde to win a World title. Joe Smith talks paydays and Frank can deliver that. Joe Smith isn’t getting the Canelo fight so he has to look at us.”

After just 12 amateur contests and 18 professional fights, in August 2019 Yarde travelled to Sergey Kovalev’s back yard in Chelyabinsk and challenged for the Russian’s WBO World title.

Yarde almost pulled off one of boxing’s greatest upsets in round eight badly hurting the champion, but the Briton’s lack of big fight experience told and he was stopped three rounds later.

Ajayi says: “With experience comes wisdom. We now have the wisdom not only in the fight but out of it in terms of preparation for a World title fight.

“Even stuff like the media obligations. We never had that before Russia. We just went there with nuts and guts and faith in our abilities, but I think we are there now.

“We are going to become World champions. We have the right team. James Cook has been the cement that we needed to solidify the team.

“We’re looking forward to the Joe Smith fight. That is the only fight on my mind at the moment, but we are not frightened by anyone.”

(January 20, 2022) – Unbeaten contender Ema Kozin has worked her way into position as the mandatory challenger for WBC/WBA/IBF Middleweight World Champion Claressa “G.W.O.A.T.” Shields and she will look to earn a historic win for her native Slovenia when she challenges Shields on Saturday, February 5 from Cardiff, Wales and available live on pay-per-view in the U.S. and Canada.

“This win would be historic for myself and for my country,” said Kozin. “Claressa certainly has a good reputation and is one of the greatest female boxers out there, but I don’t feel any pressure because of who she is. I see it as a huge opportunity and not as some kind of burden.”

The 23-year-old Kozin has worked her way up the rankings earning 10-round unanimous decision victories over former world title challengers Maria Lindberg and Chris Namus. Most recently, Kozin stopped Radana Knezevic in two rounds in May 2021 as she awaited this showdown with Shields.

“I have been preparing specifically for this fight for more than half a year and I’ve made a lot of progress as a fighter,” said Kozin. “I’m feeling ready, excited and eager to show everything I’ve learned in this ring.”

Kozin will be looking to spoil Shields’ U.K. debut as a professional on February 5, which would not only make her a world champion, but would derail Shields’ plan for a lucrative matchup in her next fight against WBO Middleweight Champion Savannah Marshall. The 5-8 southpaw hopes to take advantage of the opportunity to leave her impression on fans watching fight night.

“The boxing fans can expect a good fight,” said Kozin. “I’m going to go in there and make this interesting for everyone watching. I will give everything I have like I always do and show the world how tough a fighter I am.”

As she nears this career-defining bout, Kozin gives credit to her team, led by head trainer and manager Rudolf Pavlin, for giving her every advantage and resource needed to be at her best when she duels Shields.

“I have a great team behind me, from my trainer to my technique coach to my strength coach,” said Kozin. “We have put a lot of emphasis on my regeneration, so I have been going weekly to do the hyperbaric chamber, cryotherapy and bioresonance. It’s important for me to feel good so that I can give 100% when I train. I’ve also been on weight for more than a month now, so I can eat normally and I don’t need to worry about losing weight before the fight.”

#

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

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

HOW TO WATCH THE February 5 – Claressa Shields vs. Ema Kozin PPV

TV: Cable, satellite & telco PPV providers, including Xfinity, ____________Spectrum, Contour, Fios, and Optimum, among others (U.S.), as ____________well as leading operators in Canada.

Streaming: PPV.com and FITE.TV

GLASGOW (Jan. 20, 2022) — Two-time Cuban Olympic gold medalist Robeisy “El Tren” Ramirez will cross the pond to battle Irish veteran Eric Donovan in a 10-round featherweight battle Saturday, Feb. 26 at OVO Hydro in Glasgow, Scotland.

Ramirez-Donovan highlights a loaded undercard before the highly anticipated junior welterweight showdown between Scottish undisputed world champion Josh “The Tartan Tornado” Taylor and undefeated WBO No. 1 contender Jack “El Gato” Catterall.

The entire Taylor-Catterall card will stream live and exclusively in the United States on ESPN+.

“Ever since that shocking loss in his professional debut, Robeisy Ramirez has shown why he was one of the top fighters from the 2016 Rio Olympics,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Robeisy fought all over the world during his amateur career, and we are thrilled that he will be able to showcase his skills for the Scottish fans.”

Ramirez (8-1, 4 KOs) is no stranger to fighting on British soil. At the 2012 London Olympics, he stunned the flyweight field as a 16-1 underdog to win gold. Ramirez won a second gold medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics and defected from Cuba in July 2018. Following a split decision defeat to Adan Gonzales in his August 2019 pro debut, Ramirez has won eight straight fights, including a shutout decision win over Gonzales in their 2020 rematch. Ramirez shined on the Tyson Fury-Deontay Wilder III undercard last October, dominating the previously unbeaten Orlando Gonzalez over 10 rounds. Donovan (14-1, 8 KOs), a one-time Irish amateur star from Athy, has won two fights since an August 2020 TKO loss to Zelfa Barrett.

Ramirez said, “Ever since I won my first Olympic gold medal in London, I’ve wanted to fight again in this part of the world. Scottish fans are incredibly passionate, and I can’t wait to put on a great show for them in front of a sold-out arena. My opponent is a tough Irishman, and I will be at my very best to come out victorious.”

In other undercard action on ESPN+:

• Nick ‘The Glasgow Warrior’ Campbell (4-0, 4 KO’s) and Jay ‘The Ghost’ McFarlane (12-5, 5 KO’s) will collide in a highly anticipated showdown for the vacant Scottish heavyweight title.
   
• A pair of Top Rank-signed prospects will make their respective professional debuts in six-rounders. Featherweight Kurt Walker won bronze at the 2017 European Championships, silver at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, and gold at the 2018 EU Championships and 2019 European Games. Walker, who represented Ireland last summer at the Tokyo Olympics, lost to Top Rank stablemate Duke Ragan in a hotly contested quarterfinal bout. Junior middleweight Kieran Molloy, from Galway Ireland, won 11 national amateur titles and earned a bronze medal at the 2018 EU Championships in Valladolid, Spain. 

• Top Rank-signed welterweight sensation Paddy “Real Deal” Donovan (7-0, 5 KOs), from Limerick, Ireland, returns to action in a six-rounder. Donovan is coming off last August’s first-round knockout over Jose Luis Castillo.
   
• BOXXER Series junior welterweight winner Cori Gibbs (16-0, 3 KOs) will begin his new promotional deal in an eight-rounder.
• Rising female star Ebonie Jones (1-0) has her second pro fight against Effy Kathopouli over six rounds at junior featherweight. Portsmouth’s Jones, a former Team GB standout amateur and HGV driver in the British Army, made her pro debut last October with a points win over Vaida Masiokaite.
• Edinburgh cruiserweight ace Scott Forrest sets out on his professional journey when he makes his pro debut in a six-round contest. Born in South Africa, Forrest relocated to Forth, Scotland, as a five-year-old. He competed at the 2014 and 2018 Commonwealth Games and has sparred former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua.

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 17.1 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).