LAS VEGAS (Dec. 23, 2021) — Luis Alberto “El Venado” Lopez, the fast-rising featherweight from Mexicali, Mexico, has signed a new multi-year promotional contract with Top Rank. The 28-year-old Lopez (24-2, 13 KOs), ranked the IBF No. 1 featherweight contender, broke out from the 126-pound pack in 2021.
 
He began his campaign on March 18 with a first-round knockout over countryman Mauro Loreto in Mexicali. His breakthrough performance came on Sept. 10 in Tucson, Arizona, when he battered then-unbeaten prospect Gabriel Flores Jr. over 10 rounds en route to a unanimous decision. Less than three months later, he punched his passport once again and knocked out the previously unbeaten Isaac Lowe at the historic York Hall in London.
 
The Lowe triumph — an IBF world title eliminator — made Lopez the mandatory challenger for Kiko Martinez, the decorated Spaniard who recently knocked out Kid Galahad to become a two-weight world champion. Lopez hopes to challenge Martinez in the first half of 2022.
 
 “There are few more entertaining warriors in boxing than Luis Alberto Lopez, and he earned a new promotional contract and a shot at the title with a sensational year,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum.
 
Lopez said, “I am thankful to Bob Arum, Brad Goodman, and everybody at Top Rank. 2022 is the year I achieve my dream of becoming a world champion. Kiko Martinez is a great champion, but he is the man standing in my way. Next year, I will bring that IBF title home to Mexicali.”

December 23, 2021 – Probellum is delighted to announce the promotional signing of 31-year-old cruiserweight Noel Mikaelian.

The Armenian-German is the newest addition to Probellum’s elite-level roster, which has been expanding at a fast pace since launching in September.

A former WBO international cruiserweight champion, Mikaelian (25-2, 10 knockouts) has consistently showcased his quality throughout the course of a professional career which has spanned over 10 years. 

Following its launch, Probellum has already signed a number of top-quality fighters to its roster, including Pat and Luke McCormack, Regis Prograis, Nonito Donaire, Donnie Nietes, Lee McGregor, Eimantas Stanionis, Arthur Biyarslanov, Taras Shelestyuk, Ricky Burns, Paul Butler, Lewis Ritson, Muhammad Waseem, O’Shaquie Foster, Hovhannes Bachkov, Darius Fulghum, Eduardo Hernandez, Mark Dickinson, Brandon Moore, Jack Bowen and Jason Mallia.

Probellum has also secured co-promotional agreements with Wasserman Boxing, Universum in Germany, Groupe Yvon Michel in Canada, Maravillabox Promotions in Spain, Kynoch Boxing in Scotland, Mitchell Sports Promotions in England, LNK Boxing in Latvia, Titov Boxing in Russia, Glozier Boxing in New Zealand, Cuadrilatero Boxing in Colombia, PR Best Boxing in Puerto Rico, BXSTRS Promotions in Mexico, Shuan Boxing Promotions in the Dominican Republic, Bufalo Boxing in Nicaragua, Team Ellis Boxing in Australia, Moron Boxing in Venezuela, Volcano Boxing in El Salvador, Armin Tan Promotions in Indonesia, and Box Office Sports in Ghana.

The inaugural Probellum event took place at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena earlier this month, with Sunny Edwards retaining his IBF flyweight title courtesy of a win over Jayson Mama in the headline bout. A second show followed in the UK last Saturday.

“I’m very happy to sign for Probellum, the most exciting new brand in boxing,” said Mikaelian.

“I believe this will be a significant step in my development as a fighter, and I’m really looking forward to starting 2022 in a positive way, under the guidance of Probellum.”

“Noel has proven his quality for many years, and we are delighted to confirm his signing,” added Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum.

“The fact he has fought 27 times and secured 25 victories speaks volumes, and we are eager to see him take his undoubted talent onto another level with Probellum.”

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

LOS ANGELES (December 22, 2021) — World Cup Boxing Series (WCBS), co-founded by CEO Terry Hollan and matchmaker Guy Taylor, today formally announced its “4-Man Lightweight Tournament,” commencing with the February 24th semifinals in Mexico.

The venue, competing boxers, and streaming details will soon be announced.

“We’re so happy to see this tournament finally become a reality,” WCBS/matchmaker Guy Taylor said. “It was a lot harder than we had anticipated due to ongoing COVID-19 travel restrictions. It seemed like once one country’s ban was lifted, two others were banned. After talking with the CEO, we decided to do an All-Mexico Lightweight Tournament featuring the top available prospects.

“I have always been infatuated with tournament elements. When we started the World Cup Boxing Series, we wanted to give boxing fans an opportunity to enjoy the same excitement that other sports fans get to enjoy with tournaments and playoffs.”

The “World Cup Boxing Series 4-Man Tournament” will begin Feb. 24th with the semifinals, contested in 8-round matches, and conclude with the 10-round championship final on June 2nd.

Several locations are being strongly considered for the semifinals as San Carlos, Los Mochis and Obregon are all actively pursuing the opportunity to host the first Mexican-based boxing tournament in many years.

“We haven’t made up our mind yet on the exact location,” Taylor added, “but I do know which city we are looking at closely. Wherever we end up going, it will be the hottest ticket in town.”

Although names of the competing fighters haven’t officially been announced, several reports have mentioned one of the top contenders is Mexico’s No. 1 lightweight prospect, undefeated Luis “Koreano” Torres (14-0, 10 KOs), the World Boxing Council (WBC) Youth Lightweight Champion.

“Knowing Taylor’s aggressive matchmaking style,” WCBS CEO Hollan noted, “his bouts are nothing short of electric and entertaining, and he may even pick it up a notch or two for this tournament.”

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. – December 22, 2021 – WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. will defend his world title and display his blistering hand speed 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 featherweights Tugstsogt Nyambayar and Vic Pasillas squaring-off in the 10-round telecast opener.

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

“Gary Russell Jr. has been a force in the featherweight division for years with his dazzling skills and will again defend his title against a hungry and powerful up-and-coming opponent when he duels Mark Magsayo live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, January 22,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Magsayo earned this fight with an impressive 10th-round knockout of Julio Ceja in August and he will be looking to show that he’s the future of the 126-pound division, by knocking off the long-reigning featherweight king in Russell, who has proven worthy of his top spot with his five successful title defenses. Combined with two all-action undercard showdowns, this shapes up to be an electric night of boxing in Atlantic City.”

The Capitol Heights, Md., native Russell (31-1, 18 KOs) has held his WBC Featherweight Title since 2015 when he stopped multiple division champion Jhonny Gonzalez to emphatically capture the belt. The 33-year-old is part of one of boxing’s premier fighting families as he is trained by his father Gary Sr., and stays sharp alongside his younger brothers, unbeaten super lightweight Gary Antuanne and undefeated bantamweight Gary Antonio. Russell owns victories over current featherweight titleholder Kiko Martinez via TKO in 2019 and a unanimous decision over former world champion Joseph Diaz Jr. in 2018. Most recently, Russell outpointed the previously unbeaten Tugstsogt Nyambayar on his way to his fifth title defense in February 2020.

“I’m ready and I’ve been waiting to display my talents and get back in the ring,” said Russell. “My opponent is one of Manny Pacquiao’s fighters, who is a legend in the sport and I’m pretty sure has a good eye for talent. I’m sure he signed Magsayo for a reason. I know that I’m facing a guy who’s willing to put it all on the line, with everything to gain and nothing to lose.”

The Filipino sensation Magsayo (23-0, 16 KOs) fights out of Pasig City, Metro Manila and most recently scored a career-best victory in August knocking out former champion Julio Ceja in the 10th round of a fight he trailed on the scorecards. The 26-year-old fights in the U.S. for the sixth time on January 22 as he steps into his first shot at championship gold. Magsayo is trained by Freddie Roach in Southern California and owns 12-round decision victories over Shoto Hayashi and Ramiro Robles, in addition to a sixth-round stoppage of former title challenger Chris Avalos.

“I am very grateful for this opportunity to fight on SHOWTIME for the WBC world title,” said Magsayo. “This is the fight that I want and have been working hard to get for years. I am going to come to win and to make the most of this chance. There is a reason Gary is a champion, just like there is a reason I became the mandatory challenger. This is going to be a great fight for me to show the world what Filipinos are made of. I’ve had a long road to get to this position and I will be fighting in honor of everyone who helped me get here.”

Matías (17-1, 17 KOs) will look to avenge his only career loss, which came by narrow decision to Ananyan in 2020, when he enters the ring on January 22. Fighting out of his native Fajardo, Puerto Rico, Matías has rebounded from the defeat to score back-to-back impressive victories on SHOWTIME. He stopped the previously unbeaten Malik Hawkins in October 2020 in the sixth round and forced the previously unbeaten Batyrzhan Jukembayev to quit after eight rounds in their May clash. Matías stopped his first 15 opponents inside of the distance and has still yet to go to a decision in a victory.

“Everyone who knows me knows how much I wanted this rematch,” said Matías. “I’m very excited that I’m now getting that opportunity. That defeat slowed me down, but it was necessary for me to get to where I ultimately want to be. If I don’t beat Ananyan in this rematch, then I don’t deserve to be champion yet.”

The 33-year-old, Ananyan (16-2-2, 7 KOs) made his U.S. debut in December 2019, losing a narrow majority decision against Kareem Martin after defeating Arkadi Harutyunyan in April 2019. Born in Abovyan, Armenia and training in Southern California, Ananyan was unbeaten in his first 15 fights after turning pro in 2015. Ananyan followed up his career-best triumph over Matías by defeating Daniel Gonzalez in October via decision to set up this rematch on January 22.

“I want to thank my team for getting me this opportunity to showcase my skills on national television and to prove that my victory over Subriel Matías last year was no fluke,” said Ananyan. “Like our first fight, the rematch will be a barnburner. I am back training in the United States, getting great sparring in camp and I feel very confident. Come January 22, I will defeat Matias once again.”

Nyambayar (12-2, 9 KOs) won a silver medal representing his native Mongolia in the 2012 Olympics and now lives in Southern California, where he’s trained by John Pullman. The 29-year-old ascended the featherweight rankings after his extensive amateur career with victories over then unbeaten Harmonito Dela Torre and former interim champion Oscar Escandon. He earned his first world title shot when he defeated former champion Claudio Marrero in January 2019, before dropping his championship bout against Russell on SHOWTIME. Nyambayar returns to the featherweight division after challenging top 130-pounder Chris Colbert in a July contest he lost by decision.

“This is a great opportunity for me on January 22,” said Nyambayar. “I am prepared and excited to get back into the ring. This is going to be a great show from top to bottom, and I’m looking to deliver another great fight for the fans. This is going to be a battle from the first bell and I am confident I will come out victorious.”

Pasillas (16-1, 8 KOs), who hails from East Los Angeles, will return to action looking to bounce back from his first career defeat at the hands of Ra’eese Aleem in January on SHOWTIME. Pasillas will move back to featherweight on January 22, where he most recently scored a dominating sixth-round knockout over then-unbeaten Ranfis Encarnacion in September 2020. Pasillas possesses impressive power and was riding a six-fight knockout streak into the bout with Aleem.

“I have redemption on my mind and I’m ready to bounce back with a stellar performance when I step in the ring with Nyambayar,” said Pasillas. “My best performances have been at featherweight and I am much stronger at this weight. I’m very happy that my team was able to provide me with this opportunity. Everyone will see the difference in this fight. I’m hungrier and stronger now than ever before.”

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

TOMMY FURY HAS thrown down the gauntlet to Jake Paul and challenged him to reschedule their planned encounter for next time out in early 2022.

Fury, who was forced out of his clash with the American after suffering a chest infection and fractured rib, admitted he was a forlorn figure watching his rival take on and beat his previous opponent, former MMA star Tyron Woodley, in a rematch in the early hours of Sunday morning in Florida.

Paul, now 5-0 as a pro, flattened the former UFC welterweight champion in the sixth round with a spectacular single punch KO.

Watching back at home was Fury, wondering what might have been had he been in the opposite corner as the first boxer to oppose the YouTube phenomenon.

“I’m not good, to be honest with you and I have not gone on social media since I posted the video explaining why the fight was off,” Fury exclusively told Dev Sahni on The Unibet Lowdown. “I have probably been at the lowest point I have been in in my entire life. I have never felt or experienced anything so low.

“Imagine having everything you ever dreamt of and then having it ripped away from you through no fault of your own. It is a bitter pill to swallow.

“The chest is one thing, but having a rib break too and even now I don’t think I have really swallowed that pill and I don’t think I will because it was such a massive, easy night for me.”

Despite the brutal finish to the fight, the 7-0 Fury was resoundingly unimpressed by what he witnessed and insists it is now time for Paul to cease calling out and fighting opponents with a non-boxing pedigree.

“I think it shows what sort of place you are in when the commentator says ‘this is pretty hard to watch now’ and the joking between the commentators asking ‘who won that round? Well, nobody.” That went on for well more than half the fight.

“It was very upsetting for me to sit there and watch it. I know, if I had been in there, it wouldn’t have been going six, seven rounds or whatever it was. For the first four or five rounds the guy didn’t throw a punch, they were just wrestling each other.

“So for me to sit there and watch that… It was meant to be my night, my time. That should have been me in Tampa Bay, Florida in front of thousands of people and it will be me. I do believe my time will come, me and Frank are trying to figure out the next date for ourselves to get that fight rescheduled because that is the fight I want next.

“To hear him after the fight calling out all these MMA people. I don’t get what he is trying to achieve with these UFC people. He wants to be a boxer, doesn’t he? So fight a boxer. Stop calling out all these wrestlers and non-boxers.

“I think he is very lucky that it wasn’t me in there instead of Tyron Woodley. I am trying to give him a bit more credit, but I just can’t. People who come out and don’t do anything against me get put to sleep.”

To watch Dev Sahni’s full interview with Tommy Fury on YouTube, click here

LAS VEGAS (December 21, 2021) – Boxing legend Roy Jones, Jr. is universally regarded as one of the greatest pound-for-pound prizefighters in boxing history. In June, he’ll be heading to Canastota, New York, for his induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame (IBHOF).

The IBHOF’s Class of 2022 inductees will be inducted during June 9-12 in Canastota, New York, along with the postponed Class of 2021 and 2020 formal inductions due to COVID-19 restrictions.

“It is one of the highest honors ever you can get to be placed in the International Boxing Hall of Fame,” Jones spoke about being selected for induction. “I have the upmost respect for the Hall of Fame. I would like to thank them for inducting me and everybody else in my career throughout my whole life, starting with the days with my father (Roy Jones, Sr.), to the days with Coach Merk (Alton Merkerson), along with ‘Whop’ (Valerice Cooper). The list goes on. I thank everybody who was involved and hope that I didn’t leave too many people out.

“It takes a group of people to build a community not just one person. It took a lot of people to build my career to what I became. I thank God mostly for it. We’re trying to build the future champions of tomorrow. I feel like now that I’m in the Hall of Fame as a boxer, my next goal is to become a Hall of Fame trainer. Peace be to you all.”

Jones, 52, has just about done it all in boxing and more as a fighter, trainer, promoter, actor, color commentator, and rapper. He is the undisputed all-around king of boxing!

One of the most prolific amateur boxers in the world, Jones compiled a reported 121-13 record, including gold medal performances at the 1984 National Junior Olympics and 1986 & 1987 National Golden Gloves Tournaments. At the 1988 Olympics in Seoul, South Korea, Jones reached the championship final of the light middleweight division against Park Si-Hun, of South Korea. Jones suffered arguably the worst decision in boxing history, losing 3-2, despite out-punching his opponent, 86 to 32 landed punches, and he was forced to settle for a silver medal. Even his opponent admitted that Jones won their fight and the AIBA later suspended the three judges who selected the hometown fighter as the winner. Jones was selected as the Val Barker Trophy winner as the best boxer of the 1988 Olympics and, due to controversy, the scoring system for Olympic boxing was changed, replacing the 20-point must system with electronic scoring, and the five judges were suspended.

Jones Roy-1988-2.jpg
(photo courtesy of USA Boxing)

Born and raised in Pensacola, Florida, Jones went on to become a 10-time, 4-division (heavyweight, light heavyweight, super middleweight, and middleweight) World champion as a professional, finishing with an amazing 66-9 (47 KOs) pro record, especially considering the elite caliber opponents he fought during his career (1989-2018). He was 22-3 (14 KOs) in World title fights, defeating a Who’s Who of World champion opponents: Jorge Vaca, Jorge Fernando Castro, Bernard Hopkins, Thulani Malinga, James Toney, Vinny Pazienza (Paz), Eric Lucas, Mike McCallum, Montell Griffin, Virgil Hill, Lou DelValle, Otis Grant, Reggie Johnson, Julio Cesar Gonzalez, Clinton Woods, John Ruiz, Antonio Tarver, Felix Trinidad, and Jeff Lacy.

In 2013, Jones co-founded Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions (RJJ Boxing), and the Las Vegas-based promotional company has handled and promoted some of the most talented boxers in the world such as 2-time World bantamweight champion Joseph “King Kong” Agbeko, 2-time World junior bantamweight title challenger “Mighty” Aston Palicte, Interim World super featherweight titlist Bryan “El Toquito” Vazquez (37-4, 20), Connor “The Kid” Coyle, John “The Phenom” Vera (18-1, 11 KOs), Kendo “Tremendo” Castaneda, Randy Moreno, Max “The Baby-Faced Assassin” Ornelas, Ray “Valentino” Ximenez, Juan “Just Business” Barajas, and former WBC” Youth Heavyweight Champion Alexander “The Great” Flores.

Pro boxers Jones currently trains include Chris Eubank, Jr. (31-2, 23 KOs), Michael Williams, Jr. (19-1, 12 KOs), Brian Perrella (17-3, 14 KOs), Andrew Murphy (4-0, 3 KOs), Kevin Newman (12-3-1, 7 KOs), Ikrau Kerwat (10-3, 5 KOs), Glenn Hagler (6-1-2, 4 KOs), and 4-time national amateur champion Tika Hemingway (1-0).

In 2012, RJJ Boxing president Lisa Veltre first met Roy, who expressed his interest in becoming involved as a boxing promoter, and RJJ Boxing was soon formed in Las Vegas.

“Roy is the biggest prankster,” Veltre revealed. “He loves playing jokes. He is the most down to earth person to partner with in business. We’ve become good friends. I’ve learned so much from him about boxers, the business of boxing, and what goes on in and out of the squared circle.

“I never really look at him from a business aspect because we are personal friends – Roy became mor of a mentor to me – so I never thought of what it meant for our company when he was selected for induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. I knew it was a huge honor, but it had been on the horizon for a few years (until he became eligible). I’m elated! It’s so amazing. If all goes right, schedule-wise because things change so quickly in boxing, we want to be in Canastota Jim to support him when he receives the highest honor in boxing.”

Well known boxing media personality James Smitty” Smith has known since the 1980’s, first as a guest on longtime Radio Show Smitty’s Sportstalk, as well as a guest on Smith’s television show, IN THIS CORNER. “Smitty,” who has served as host of the annual IBHOF Induction Weekend since 2016, in addition to working the last four years for RJJ Boxing as its color commentator on UFC FIGHT PASS.

“I knew when I first laid my pugilistic eyes on Roy Jones. Jr. at the 1988 Summer Olympics that he was destined for Superstardom as a professional prize fighter,” Smith remarked. “Physically, Roy is as gifted as anyone who ever laced up a pair of boxing gloves, but he also packaged so much showmanship into his In-ring and out of Ring endeavors. He is the embodiment of what a Boxing Hall of Famer is and should be. He was born to someday reside in Canastota. It will be one of my great honors to welcome him into the hallowed grounds of the International Boxing Hall of Fame, especially because of my relationship with Roy, who I’m proud to call my friend.”

Smitty _ RJJ.jpg
(L-R) – James “Smitty” Smith & Roy Jones, Jr.

Going into the IBHOF in his first year of eligibility was an unquestioned lock for Roy Jones, Jr.. The lone debate is how high near the top he rates on boxing’s mythical list of all-time greats.

INFORMATION:

Websites: http://www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com

Twitter: @RoyjonesJRfa @RoyJonesJrOfficial

Instagram: @RoyJonesJrBoxing

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

Melrose, MA (December 21, 2021) – Super middleweight sensation Yamaguchi Falcao meets once-beaten Fernando Ezequiel Farias in the main event of “Down & Dirty” Saturday, February 19 at Melrose Memorial Hall in Melrose, MA.

Presented by Reyes Boxing, tickets for “Down & Dirty” are on sale now by going to Tinyurl.com/4TMZAWXE. The card will also be broadcast on Throwdownsports.com. More information is available by calling 978-745-4007 or going to ReyesBoxingClub.com.

Doors open at 6:30 and Melrose Memorial Hall is located at 590 Main St.

Originally from Brazil but living and training in Florida, Falcao’s impressive professional record is 19-1-1 with 8 wins by knockout. The 2012 Olympic Bronze Medalist won all three of his fights in 2021 while capturing the WBC Latino, WBA Fedecaribe and ABF Continental Americas titles. Falcao’s looking to face the world’s best 168 pound fighters but must first get past Farias.

Hailing from the boxing-rich city of Buenos Aires, Argentina, Farias is 10-1-2 with 4 KO’s. He’s fighting for the second time in the US and is confident he’ll defeat Falcao on the 19th.

Falcao-Farias is scheduled for ten rounds for the WBC Latino Super Middleweight title.

In the co-featured bout of the evening, rising middleweight star Connor Coyle meets veteran Martel Fidel Rios of La Pampa, Argentina over eight rounds for the ABF Continental Americas Championship.

Representing Derry, Northern Ireland, Coyle’s 14-0 with 6 wins by knockout. The charismatic 31-year-old is well-traveled as a pro, fighting in Ireland, Mexico and four different US states.

Coyle, who trains alongside Falcao in Florida under the tutelage of Florida Boxing Hall of Fame trainer Jim McLaughlin, captured the ABF belt in April with a first round knockout.

“We are pleased to have Yamaguchi and Connor back in the ring,” said their promoter Jody Caliguire of Fire Fist Boxing Promotions. “The Boston metropolitan area has a huge Irish and Brazilian population so the turnout should be great!”

The undercard will feature local standouts Alejandro Paulino, Sean Bey, Eric Goff, Donnie Palmer and Gabriel Morales in separate bouts.

Additional bouts and undercard opponents will be announced shortly.

For more on Falcao and Coyle, visit Firefistboxing.net.

LAS VEGAS (December 21, 2021) – Former unified welterweight world champion Keith “One Time’’ Thurman will 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.

Both Thurman and Barrios will look to rebound from their first career defeats with statement victories on February 5 to put them back on the path toward another world title. Thurman will be returning to the ring after a 30-month absence, which is the longest of his career. Barrios will be testing himself at 147-pounds for the first time in his pro career and against one of the best and most experienced welterweights in the sport.

“This is one of the most exciting and intriguing cards from top to bottom that I’ve seen in a long time. Keith Thurman and Mario Barrios will be looking to do whatever they can to get a big win in this fight,’’ said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Leo Santa Cruz is also sure to be highly motivated in his ring return and I expect that he will come with added intensity against Keenan Carbajal. In addition to those fights, everyone knows the fireworks that Abel Ramos and Josesito Lopez, plus Luis Nery and undefeated Carlos Castro, bring to the ring. It’s going to be a special night for boxing fans on February 5 live from Las Vegas on FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View.’’

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, go on sale Wednesday, Dec. 22 at 10 a.m. PT and will be available at axs.com.

The 33-year-old Thurman (29-1, 22 KOs) has assembled one of the most impressive resumes among the top welterweights of this generation, having defeated former champions like Shawn Porter, Danny Garcia and Robert Guerrero. The Clearwater, Florida native took the first loss of his career when he dropped a close decision to Manny Pacquaio in a 2019 Fight of the Year in his last outing.

Thurman proved that he is must-see TV when his welterweight title unification match against Danny Garcia peaked at 5.1 million viewers in prime time on network television. It was the largest audience to see a live boxing match on prime-time network television since 1998.

“It’s been a long time coming for my return to the ring, and I can’t wait to compete again,” said Thurman. “In 2022, I will remind the world of boxing that Keith ‘One Time’ Thurman is a fighter not to forget. I look not to the past nor to the future, I’m back now, and I’m ready to fight. I dream big, and now is the time to make that dream a reality. Get ready, because I’m putting in the work to put on a show against Mario Barrios on February 5 on pay-per-view. It’s begun and my time is now.”

Barrios (26-1, 17 KOs), 26, will be stepping up to a major challenge when he faces Thurman. The San Antonio native will be going against a seasoned welterweight in Thurman. Barrios will own a three-inch height advantage against Thurman and will look to use that to his advantage in establishing himself at 147 pounds.

Barrios lost his super lightweight world championship when he suffered an 11th-round TKO loss to Gervonta Davis in his most recent fight on June 26. The 5-foot-10 Barrios operates in the ring under the tutelage of renowned trainer Virgil Hunter. The pairing has proven to be successful as Hunter helped guide Barrios to the WBA 140-pound title when he scored a unanimous decision over Batyr Akhmedov in 2019.

“I’m excited to be making my welterweight debut against a great fighter and former world champion like Keith Thurman,” said Barrios. “A lot of fighters wouldn’t take this fight, but that’s why I wanted it. Both of us like to throw a lot of bombs and I believe this will be an all-out war. The fans know I’m a warrior and that I don’t back down from any challenge, that’s why everyone should order this fight. ‘El Azteca’ is going to make a statement on February 5.”

A four-division world champion, Santa Cruz (37-2-1, 19 KOs) has established himself as one of the best Mexican boxers of his generation. The 33-year-old Santa Cruz, who was born in Michoacan, Mexico and now lives in Rosemead, California, cemented his legacy with world championships at 118, 122, 126 and 130 pounds. He’s coming off a loss to Gervonta Davis in a lightweight and super featherweight world title bout on Oct. 31, 2020. Before that the only other blemish on his record was a majority decision loss to Carl Frampton in 2016, which he was able to avenge in the 2017 rematch.

“I’m excited to be back after a year out of the ring,” said Santa Cruz. “I’m looking forward to giving the fans a great fight on February 5 in Las Vegas and hopefully everyone will enjoy my fight and a great night of boxing.”

The 30-year-old Carbajal (23-2-1, 15 KOs) is the nephew of five-time world champion, Olympic silver medalist and Hall of Famer Michael Carbajal. But Carbajal is making a name for himself in boxing and is looking for a world championship of his own. A victory over Santa Cruz will go a long way toward helping him carve out his own niche in the boxing world. He thrilled the hometown crowd at Footprint Center with an impressive TKO victory over Josean Figueroa-Bonilla in his most recent fight on Nov. 13.

“This is my introduction to the world, and like the Phoenix, I will rise to the occasion,” said Carbajal. “I’m preparing to be at my very best and give everything I’ve got against a great champion in Leo Santa Cruz.”

Ramos (27-4-2, 21 KOs) is part of a boxing family out of Casa Grande, Arizona, which includes his nephew, rising welterweight undefeated contender Jesus Ramos. The 30-year-old Ramos has built a reputation as a hardnosed boxer who doesn’t back down from a fight and gives as good as he gets. He turned the tables on Omar Figueroa, Jr. when he went toe-to-toe and forced Figueroa to quit on his stool in his last fight on May 1. He also owns a split decision defeat to welterweight world champion Yordenis Ugas and showed a flair for the dramatic when he scored a TKO victory over Bryant Perrella in the waning seconds of their fight in 2020.

“I’m excited to start off the year with a big fight,” said Ramos. “Josesito is a very good fighter and I expect this fight to be a war. This matchup will be action-packed and fight fans will not be disappointed.”

Lopez (38-8, 21 KOs) earned the nickname “The Riverside Rocky’’ because of his go-for-broke style in the ring. He has stepped in across from some of the top boxers in the sport, including champions Canelo Alvarez, Marcos Maidana, Andre Berto and Victor Ortiz. The 37-year-old from Riverside, California is always a tough out in the ring as noted by his narrow majority decision loss to then-champion Keith Thurman in 2019. Since that loss Lopez has put together back-to-back victories, defeating John Molina, Jr. and Francisco Santana.

“I’m extremely motivated and ready to take on my next assignment,” said Lopez. “I’m expecting a tough challenge from Ramos, but I’m more than ready to display my skills and prove that I’m one of the best fighters in the world.”

The 26-year-old Nery (31-1, 24 KOs) suffered the first loss of his career when he was stopped by Brandon Figueroa in a super bantamweight title unification fight on May 15. Before that loss, the Tijuana, Mexico native had blown through two divisions (118 and 122 pounds) with knockouts in 12 of 13 consecutive fights. He scored a unanimous decision victory over Aaron Almeda to pick up the WBC super bantamweight world title in 2020 and will look to move back toward a world title trajectory with a win over Castro.

“I am looking to start the year off with a bang in Las Vegas,” said Nery. “I didn’t want any easy fights, and I asked for the best ranked opponent I could get. Castro has a great record and is ranked highly in the super bantamweight division. A win over Castro puts me back in the world title mix and that’s where I’m looking to be.”

The undefeated Castro (27-0, 12 KOs) was born in Sonora, Mexico and came to the U.S. as a child, now living in Phoenix, Arizona. Castro has remained unbeaten throughout his career and can move much closer to a world title fight with a triumph over Nery. The 27-year-old took a big step forward in his last fight when he took on Oscar Escandon on Aug. 21, passing that test with flying colors after he knocked out Escandon in the 10th round.

“I’m super excited for this upcoming fight,” said Castro. “It’s a great opportunity to display my skills against a well-known and accomplished fighter like Nery. I’m going to show everyone why I deserve my high-ranking and earn a shot at the world champions.”

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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.

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LAS VEGAS, NV (December 20, 2021) – Undefeated super featherweight, Andres Cortes (16-0, 9 KOs), is looking for big fights in 2022. Cortes, a promotional free agent who ended 2021 with two spectacular knockouts on national television, feels he’s ready to step up in competition.

“2021 was a great year for me and I showed the type of fighter I’ve become since the pandemic hit,” said Cortes. “I took out Genesis Servania in one round, a fighter who had never been stopped. I followed that win with another knockout against Mark Bernaldez, another tough fighter. I feel I’m ready to step up against all the top guys at super featherweight in 2022.”

Hailing from Las Vegas, NV, Cortes is seeking to sign with one of the top promotional organizations in boxing. He believes his performances in the ring have proved he’s one of the top prospects in the sport.

“I’m hoping my actions in the ring will garner me a promotional agreement with a top promoter,” continued the 24-year-old Cortes. “I’m still young and my dreams of becoming a world champion are right there for me. I want to stay busy and make my run toward a world title with a promoter who wants me on their team. I know I can bring a lot of value to anyone who signs me.”

“My brother and I have worked really hard to get into this position,” said Luis Cortes, brother and trainer of Andres. “We’ve been at this for a very long time, and I believe my brother is an incredible fighter, who will become a world champion with the right promoter. I’m not just saying that because he’s my brother, I know it because of the damage we’ve done in sparring against some of these so-called top prospects and world champions. I know our vision of signing with a top promoter will come to fruition as we are in discussions with some top organizations.”

TULSA, OK (Dec. 21, 2021) — The 2022 junior lightweight world title picture will get a bit clearer Saturday, Jan. 29 in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
 
The 10-round main event — a WBC title eliminator — will see recent title challenger Robson “O Brabo” Conceição attempt to turn back hard-charging Sacramento native Xavier Martinez at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa. 
 
Martinez recently signed a multi-fight pact with Top Rank and will look to shine in his promotional debut. Conceição-Martinez and a co-feature will air live on ESPN & ESPN Deportes (simulcast on ESPN+) at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. Undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+.
 
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).
 
“This has all the makings of a special, action-packed main event,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Conceição nearly defeated the great Oscar Valdez for the title, while Martinez is a young kid hoping to make a name in the 130-pound division.”
 
Conceição (16-1, 8 KOs), from Bahia, Brazil, captured a gold medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, capping a 400-plus fight amateur career that included wins over the likes of Cuba’s Lazaro Alvarez and a razor-thin defeat to Vasiliy Lomachenko at the 2011 World Championships. After nearly five years as an unbeaten pro, Conceição challenged WBC world champion Valdez in September. Conceição built an early lead, but Valdez rallied late to shade the unanimous decision. 
 
Conceição said, “Nothing can stop me. Nothing can make me lose focus. I remain firm towards my goal of becoming a world champion. My last fight was just a minor setback. I’m going to make sure that all my hard work and sacrifices will not be in vain.
 
“I’m excited for the opportunity to be the main event and to face an undefeated fighter like Xavier Martinez. I’m sure we will give the fans a great show.”
 
Martinez (17-0, 11 KOs) began boxing at the age of 6 in Sacramento and compiled an 85-10 amateur record before turning pro in June 2015. He stepped up in 2019 with knockout wins over Jessie Cris Rosales and John Vincent Moralde and survived a gut check versus former interim world champion Claudio Marrero the following year. Martinez was knocked down twice in the eighth round, but outboxed Marrero in the championship rounds to earn a unanimous decision. He last fought in May and dominated veteran Juan Carlos Burgos over 10 rounds.
 
Martinez said, “It was a dream to get a multi-year promotional deal with Top Rank and a shot to be the main event on ESPN. This is my chance to show the world I’m one of the best in the 130-pound division and work towards my goal of becoming a world champion under the Top Rank banner.”
 
“Xavier is positioned to write his destiny, and the stage is set,” said Rick Mirigian, Martinez’s manager. “He can bring back the sport to Sacramento in a big way and fulfill his dream of becoming a world champion. Thank you to Top Rank for getting this done and believing in Xavier.”

NUR-SULTAN, KAZAKHSTAN (DECEMBER 21, 2021)–2016 Olympic Gold Medalist, Daniyar Yeleussinov won his first world title, as he won the IBO World Welterweight Championship by defeating Juan Hernan Leal (15?2) via unanimous decision in front of a a sold out arena in Nur-Sultan Kazakhstan.

Fighting at home for the first time in his professional career, Daniyar showed fast hands along with power early on as he tried to impress the hometown crowd.

The power was in full display in the second round as he knocked down Leal with a straight left to the body.

Yeleussinov would then land a fast counter left uppercut that landed on the tip of the nose, dropping Leal once for a second time.

Leal would then go into survival mode for the rest of the way as Yeleussinov would rain punches on a defensive minded Leal.

Unfortunately an injured left hand midway through the fight prevented Yeleussinov from getting the stoppage.

Yeleussinov won easily by scores of 120-105 twice and 120-106, and improved his perfect record to 11-0 with six knockouts.

With this victory, Yeleussinov became the first of the Welterweight Gold Medalist from Kazakhstan to win a world title, and looks forward to winning the other world titles in the future.

The boxing event was special as the title fight coincided with Kazakhstan celebrating 30 years of Independence. This was the first world title fight in Kazakhstan since Beibut Shumenov won the vacant WBA World cruiserweight title on July 7, 2018 in Nur-Sultan.

“I was very excited to finally fight as a pro in front of my family, friends and country, but I put a lot of pressure on myself because I wanted to put on an outstanding performance as I did my last three fights,” said Yeleussinov

“After the two knockdowns in the second round, I hurt my left hand hitting him on top of his head as I was trying to finish him off. Leal would go on survival mode preventing any real openings for me to fully capitalize.”

“Although it wasn’t the performance I wanted, I got some rust off and got much needed rounds, and I went 12 rounds for the first time in my career.”

Boxing Stars Management featured several of their fighters on the show and worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this great event a reality.

Said Elvis Crespo of Boxing Stars Management, “I’m satisfied with Daniyar’s performance as he won every round in the fight and he got much needed work as he only has fought nine rounds in the past two years. We will look to keep him more active as soon as his hand heals up. 2022 will be a big year for Daniyar Yeleussinov!”

“It was a great show and at the best time of year as we were celebrating Kazakhstan’s 30 years of independence as well as Daniyar becoming the 5th World Champion from Kazakhstan,” said Ziya Aliyev of Boxing Stars Management. “It was challenging especially with all restrictions with Covid, but we, Boxing Stars, were very active with the promoters to not only make this a great boxing show but also a great event!”

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (December 20, 2021) — Today, the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame (ACBHOF) announced the honorees for the 2022 6th Annual Induction Ceremony; to be held Friday, October 7, through Sunday, October 9, 2022, at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City.

The 2022 ACBHOF inductees include:

Lennox Lewis, Julio César Chávez, James Toney, Frank Fletcher Dave Tiberi, Chuck Mussachio, Kathy Collins-Globuschutz, Kathy Duva, Pat Lynch, Kevin Rooney Sr., Lynne Carter, Randy Neumann, Dr. Domenic Coletta, Tom Casino, and posthumously: James Broad, Eddie Aliano, and Harold Lederman.

The Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony & Celebration will offer boxing enthusiasts a weekend full of great programming, including a kick-off cocktail reception, meet & greets, and fight fan experience that features spectacular artwork, exhibits, and boxing memorabilia.

The Highlight of the weekend is our red-carpet formal Induction Ceremony which takes place in an award show atmosphere. We will honor and enshrine all who helped make Atlantic City a worldwide boxing Mecca. Guests will enjoy the opportunity to mix and mingle with special guests, including entertainers, sports icons, government officials, and more. In addition, many of our previous honorees will be in attendance.

For more information, visit the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame website at www.acbhof.com.

A special thanks to our sponsors and supporters: Mayor Marty Small Sr., City of Atlantic City, SparBar Inc., Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, Casino Reinvestment Development Authority, FantaSea Resorts, Expressions Graphic Designs, Legends Block, Icons of Boxing, Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall, Adams Boxing, Sampson Boxing, WBC, IBF, Fight Night Apparel and The Claridge Hotel.

ONTARIO, CA (December 20, 2021) – This past Friday at Thompson Boxing’s “Path to Glory” event, rising super bantamweight contender, Saul “The Beast” Sanchez (18-1, 10 KOs), scored a third-round knockout against Jose “Hollywood” Estrella (23-17-1, 16 KOs). The event took place at the Doubletree hotel in Ontario, CA.

In the opening round both fighters were looking to establish their jabs but started to let their hands fly once they started to land hard shots. Sanchez was the aggressor, landing nice combos, while Estrella was countering landing some nice overhand right hands. Both fighters continued to let their hands go in round two, but it was Sanchez who was getting the better of the exchanges. In round three, Sanchez landed a left hook to the body that sent Estrella to the canvas. Estrella couldn’t recover and the bout was stopped at the 1:36 mark. With the win Sanchez inches closer to a world title shot and has big plans for 2022.

“We were both going for it from the opening bell, and I knew eventually I was going to land a big shot,” said Sanchez. “When I landed that left hook to the body, it was a perfect shot, and I took him out. I’m hoping early next year I’ll be able to fight for a regional title, with the hopes of fighting for a world title by the end of the year. I feel I’m ready to take on all the champs at bantamweight and super bantamweight.”

In the 8-round co-main event, a battle of undefeated super lightweights commenced as Ruben Torres (17-0, 14 KOs) remained unbeaten as he defeated Francisco Armenta (12-1, 4 KOs) by way of a fourth-round knockout.

Torres came out firing and looked sensational from the opening round, landing powerful blows to the head and body. Armenta had a few moments where he landed some nice left hooks but Torres steam rolled him, dropping him twice in round three, and again in round four. Armenta’s corner seen enough and stopped the fight at .56 mark of round four.

“I felt very strong going into this fight and all the hard work I put into the camp was on display.” stated Torres. “I feel like next year will be a year where more people will start to see me as one of the top prospects in boxing. I’m still learning but I’m getting better as my career develops. 2022 will be a big year for me.”

In a super featherweight division crossroads fight, Brandon Benitez (18-2, 7 KOs) defeated Anthony Chavez (9-2-1, 3 KOs). In the first round, Benitez dropped Chavez with a jab to set the tone of the fight. Benitez was the one forcing the action as he applied a tremendous amount of pressure, forcing Chavez to fight on the inside. Chavez was landing some clean shots, but it was Benitez who was doing the most damage with his all-out attack. Benitez outworked Chavez throughout the fight and scored an unanimous decision. Scorecards read 77-74 and 79-72 twice.

“This was a huge win and its going to help me get closer a big fight,” Benitez stated. “I’ve been training hard and I’m proving my self to be on a world class level. I know if I continue to work hard, I’ll put my self in position to fight a top name. I was very happy with my performance.”

In a scheduled 6-round super bantamweight bout, Manuel Flores (11-0, 9 KOs) defeated a game Leonardo Torres (9-15-1, 5 KOs). Flores who fights out of the southpaw stance, thoroughly dominated the fight, but it wasn’t as easy as it looked on paper. Torres fought with a lot of heart but couldn’t withstand the pounding that Flores was giving him. Flores dropped Torres with a vicious body shot in round four and the fight was stopped at the 2:50 mark.

“I came out and did what I envisioned and got the knockout,” said Flores. “I was in control the whole fight until I stopped him. I feel like I’m taking my career to the next level with all the dedication I’m putting into my career. Soon I’ll be ready to fight any of the top prospects in my division.”

In the opening bout of the night, super bantamweight, Ivan Zarate (3-0, 1 KO) annihilated Roberto Rodriguez (1-1, 1 KO). Zarate dropped Rodriguez with an overhand right just 10 seconds into the contest, then again with a straight right at the 50 second mark. Rodriguez couldn’t get up and the fight was over.”

“My power showed up tonight as I wanted to make a statement in this fight.” said Zarate. “This guy was undefeated coming into this fight, so I wanted to show everyone that I’m on another level. This was my first knockout and it felt great.”

For more information, regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com. You can also follow the conversation on social media, please use #ThompsonBoxing. TBP Mobile App is now available for download on Google Play (Android) and Apple’s App Store (iPhone).

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

WEBSTER, Mass. (December 19, 2021) – Local boxers Wifredo “El Sucaro” Pagan and Carlos Marrero, III battled to another 6-round draw last night in the main event on the “New England’s Future VIII” card, presented by Rivera Promotions Entertainment (RPE), at Webster Town Hall in Webster, Massachusetts.

The show marked the first professional boxing event in Webster in 27 years, since future 3-time, 2-division World champion and current RPE promoter, Jose Antonio Rivera, fought there back on November 18, 1994.

“The fights were as exciting and action-packed as we thought they were going to be,” Rivera said. “That’s why boxers and fans cannot go just by a boxer’s record. Styles make fights and if you don’t know by now, my son A.J. Rivera is becoming an expert at putting together exciting fights. Four of our six fights went the distance and were action packed, including the main event.”

Puerto Rico-native Pagan (6-1-2, 3 KOs), fighting out of Southbridge (MA), and his Bridgeport, Connecticut’s Marrero, III (2-6-32), fought to an entertaining 6-round split draw this past August 14th in Worcester (MA) for the vacant New England Super Lightweight Championship.

The original Pagan-Marrero fights was a non-stop, action-packed throw-down which the judges’ scored 58-56 in favor or Pagan, 55-59 for Marrero, and 57-57. Both fighters immediately agreed to fight a rematch for the N.E. crown.

The rematch last night was like an extension of their original confrontation, also contested for the New England. title, and the result was a boxing oddity as the two fought to another 6-round draw in their next fights, and the New England Super Lightweight Championship remained vacant.

The scoring was 58-56 in Pagan’s favor, 58-56 for Marrero, and 57-57 to account for the draw.

“The main event was action packed,” Rivera commented. “I told both fighters not to be disappointed with the decision. They fought their hearts out and fans were excited and entertained, which is what fans come to these boxing events for. It just seems that both of their styles make for an action-packed, exciting fight like the Arturo Gatti and Micky Ward Trilogy.”

In the co-featured event, former New England super lightweight title challenger Oscar Bonilla (7-3-1, 1 KO) returned to the ring after a 2 1/2-year absence to fight Seth Basler (0-18).Bonilla pitched a shutout, winning all four rounds on each of the three judges’ scorecards.

Bonilla, of Bridgeport, was fighting for the first time in memory of his younger brother, highly decorated amateur boxer Kevan Bonilla, who was tragically murdered at the tender age of 20 this past July in New Haven.

Undefeated Florida super welterweight Josniel “TG” Castro (8-0, 6 KOs), one of the most active American fighters during 2021 in this his sixth fight, pounded Lenwood “Mr. Composure” Dozier (10-29-3, 5 KOs) until he was unable to continue after three rounds.

Worcester (MA) super middleweight Bobby “BH3” Harris, III (4-0-1, 1 KOs) registered his first knockout as a pro, dropping David Rohn (0-11-1) three times when the match was stopped midway through round one. Harris was a 2-time national amateur champion who captured a silver medal at the World Games.

New Haven (CT) super welterweight Angel “The Tsunami” Rosa (3-0, 2 KOs) was forced to go the complete distance for the first time as a pro. Rosa did win each of the four rounds on all scorecards for unanimous decision over Stacy Anderson (0-9).

In the opening bout of the evening, Derek “Hightower” Edmonds (4-0, 3 KOs) and Wewerton Silveira Silva (0-2) got things off to an exciting start, landing bombs off the opening bell. Silva got Edmonds, a 3-time New England Golden Gloves Champion, attention when he connected with a wild right. Edmonds went on to deck Silva three times for a first-round win by technical knockout.

Complete results are below:

OFFICIAL RESULTS

MAIN EVENT – VACANT NEW ENGLAND SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Wilfredo Pagan (6-1-2, 3 KOs), Southbridge, MA by way of Puerto Rico

D6 (58-56, 56-58, 57-57)

Carlos Marerro, III (2-6-3, 0 KOs), Bridgeport, CT

CO-FEATURE – SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS

Oscar Bonilla (7-3-2, 1 KO), Bridgeport, CT

WDEC6 (40-36), 40-36, 40-36)

Seth Basler (0-18), Marion, IL

HEAVYWEIGHTS

Demek Edmonds (4-0, 3 KOs), Worcester, MA

WTKO1 (1:57)

Wewerton Silveira Silva (0-2), Boston, MA by way of Brazil

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT

Josniel Castro (8-0, 6 KOs), Boca Raton, FL

WTKO3 (3:00)

Lenwood Dozier (10-29-3, 5 KOs), Belcamp, MD

Bobby Harris III (4-0-1, 1 KO), Worcester, MA

WTKO1 (1:38)

David Rohn (0-11-1), Vila Park, IL

SUPER WELTERWEIGHTS

Anuel Rosa (2-0, 2 KOs), New Haven, CT

WDEC4 (40-36, 40-36, 40-36)

Stacy Anderson (0-9), Albuquerque, NM

INFORMATION:

Twitter: @RiveraPromoEnt, @JoseRiveraChamp, @KingRivera_, @ShearnsBoxing

Sunderland, United Kingdom – December 19, 2021 – Lewis Ritson returned to winning ways in style as he defeated Christian Uruzquieta at Probellum Unstoppable on Saturday.

Probellum’s inaugural show in the UK was held in association with Phil Jeffries at the Rainton Arena in Sunderland, and featured a number of extremely entertaining battles.

Along with Ritson’s victory, there were wins for the likes of Thomas Patrick Ward, Ricky Burns, Mark Dickinson and more, on an evening which also saw Probellum unveil two new signings, undefeated British super-welterweight champion Troy Williamson, and five-time amateur national champion Ben Rees. Please find the full list of results and quotes below.

LEWIS RITSON def. CHRISTIAN URUZQUIETA via RTD at 3:00 of R9

Lewis Ritson claimed a fantastic stoppage victory on his return to the ring as he came out on top against Christian Uruzquieta.

Ritson (22-2, 12 knockouts) shone from start to finish in the fight, with the big moment coming in round nine, where a fantastic flurry of punches sent Uruzquieta tumbling to the floor.

The Mexican managed to get up and see out the round, but with more punishment potentially looming, the corner decided to pull their man out, giving Ritson a great win inside the distance.

“I tried to add little things in the gym that I’ve been working on, and we were working well off the jab,” said Ritson. “I tried fighting when I didn’t need to, but we got the win and I want the big names now.

“I was fully focused and broke him down after four or so rounds, so I’m happy with the performance. I’ve added a few more strings to the bow, and with Probellum we’re going to be a big force up here for the next few years. I’m ready to rock and roll.”

THOMAS PATRICK WARD def. LEONARDO PADILLA via UD after 10 rounds (100-90, 100-90, 98-92)

Thomas Patrick Ward put in yet another vintage performance as he dominated proceedings against Leonardo Padilla.

Ward (31-0-1, 4 knockouts) was a level above Padilla, constantly beating his opponent to the key shots and doing damage with his quick attacks.

There was only one outcome when the final bell tolled, with Ward getting his hand raised and moving one step closer to another world title shot.

RICKY BURNS def. EMILIANO DOMINGUEZ RODRIGUEZ via UD after 10 rounds (100-91, 99-91, 98-92)

Ricky Burns marked his long-awaited return with a win as he overcame Emiliano Dominguez Rodriguez by unanimous decision.

it was the first time Burns (44-8-1, 16 knockouts) was back in action since October 2019, and the three-weight world champion received a tremendous reception from the fans in attendance.

It was a vintage performance from the Scotsman, once again showing the wide array of tools he has at his disposal, with the three judges eventually scoring it 100-91, 99-91 and 98-92 in his favour as he returned to winning ways.

MARK DICKINSON def. MICHAL GAZDIK 60-54 on PTS after 6 rounds

Mark Dickinson displayed his superb boxing ability as he gained six valuable rounds with a points win over Michal Gazdik.

Dickinson (2-0, 1 knockout) made an instant impact in the paid ranks with a 30 second knockout win during his debut in October, but he showed his other skills on this occasion, getting behind the jab and utilising all of his assets in the performance against Gazdik.

It was a one-sided effort from the talented prospect, with the referee scoring every round to Dickinson as he successfully triumphed.

“I didn’t go in there looking for the stoppage. I was in there with a light-heavyweight purposely to get the rounds,” said Dickinson. “I know I need those rounds to push me further in my career. It’s six rounds in the bag and then 2022 will be a big year.

“I had to mix up the power in the shots, and use my skill and my boxing brain. I know I’ve got one of the best brains in the sport, and I controlled every minute of every round of that fight.”

JOSEPH LAWS def. SEAMUS DEVLIN 60-55 on points after 6 rounds

The always-exciting Joseph Laws closed the show in his usual entertaining way as he beat Seamus Devlin.

There had already been a lot of drama outside of the ring for Laws (12-1, 5 knockouts), after his original opponent pulled out of the fight on weigh-in day, with Devlin stepping in on 24 hours’ notice.

Laws dictated proceedings, and the referee scored it 60-55 in favour of the Benwell Bomber as he made it two wins in a month.

“After the pandemic I had a bad year, and now I want to show people I’m a 12 round fighter. I’m not just a party trick,” said Laws. “I felt as the rounds went on I got better. Round six was probably my best round.

“Seamus is as tough as they come but I feel like I was working my way into the fight more. I want learning fights and I want to show I can do the rounds. I feel I’ve come on a lot and I need to give my coaches a big thank you.”

UNDERCARD RESULTS:

MARK MCKEOWN def. URIEL LOPEZ 59-56 on PTS after 6 rounds

Mark McKeown and Uriel Lopez were involved in a sensational back and forth battle, with McKeown coming out on top.

McKeown (5-0, 2 knockouts) started the fight extremely quickly, pushing the pace from the very first bell, but Lopez gave as good as he got, coming back with success of his own.

It was Scottish star McKeown who got the better of the exchanges, but it remained a toe to toe war throughout, with the fans in attendance on their feet at the end of the contest to applaud both men, as McKeown claimed the great victory.

“That’s the kind of fight I’ve been wanting. I loved every second of it,” said McKeown. At times I took too long to get behind my jab and I could have made it easier for myself, but I was landing good shots and so was he.

“My coach will tell you that I love a fight, but when it gets tough I bite down on my gumshield. I’m born like this, it’s something inside of me, you don’t need to look for it. I just dig in and get it done.”

ADAM COPE def. RUSTEM FATKHULLIN 40-35 on PTS after 4 rounds

Adam Cope continued his resurgence as he dropped Rustem Fatkhullin on his way to a comfortable points victory.

Cope (3-0) was competing for the second time in a month, having not boxed since 2017 before that, but he looked as fresh as ever, utilising his skills well and dropping Fatkhullin with a beautiful body shot in round two.

The Russian got to his feet and managed to see out the remainder of the fight, but there was only one winner, with Cope getting his hand raised and claiming the 40-35 points verdict.

“He knows how to survive. It was good to box a bit better, and I’ll always try and be better each fight,” said Cope. “I’ll look back at the fight and see what I’ve done, and then improve again.

“I was looking for the body shots in the fight, and I was trying to switch my feet and come through the middle. He was a tricky customer, and I know when I get to super-featherweight they won’t be able to take my shots.

“My support is always the loudest, it doesn’t matter where you put them. They didn’t disappoint, and thanks to everyone for coming so close to Christmas, it really means a lot to me.”

EWAN MACKENZIE def. QASIM HUSSAIN via RTD at 3:00 of R1

Ewan MacKenzie had a short night’s work as his fight with Qasim Hussain came to an early end after Hussain cited a shoulder injury at the end of round one.

It was all Mackenzie (3-0, 1 knockout) in the opening round, landing a number of good shots, but as Hussain went back into his corner at the end of the round, it soon became clear the action wouldn’t continue.

He told the referee he had suffered a shoulder injury, meaning that Mackenzie earned the stoppage win and extended his unbeaten record.

“It’s a bit frustrating. I was trying to break him down, but he says he’s got a shoulder injury,” said Mackenzie. “I was trying to work through a tight guard, but I need something back so I can set up the shot.

“I want a big year next year so I can stay active. I’ve been active over the last few months with some back to back camps, and I want it to pay off. I’ll be straight back in training, and it’s full steam ahead.”

ALEX FARRELL def. IVICA GOGOSEVIC via TKO at 1:04 of R2

Alex Farrell kicked off the show in style as he won an entertaining battle against experienced Ivica Gogosevic.

Farrell (6-0, 3 knockouts) was on the front foot from the offset, landing huge shot after huge shot, with Gogosevic eventually hitting the canvas in round two.

The Croatian got back to his feet, but another massive shot soon followed that knocked him down again, with the referee waving it off to earn Farrell the win.

“It’s more difficult when they’re a rough fighter, sometimes it’s easier to box a technical boxer than a rough guy, so I had to stay composed and see my openings,” said Farrell. “I take every fight as a learning curve and I want to learn in every fight.

“Everybody wants to be world champion, but for me I don’t care how long it will take or what it will take. I have to go through a lot to be a world champion. Thanks to all of the people in Greece, and all of the people in the UK for supporting me.”

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

Sunderland, United Kingdom – December 18, 2021 – Probellum is delighted to announce the signing of undefeated British super-welterweight champion Troy Williamson.

Williamson (17-0-1, 13 knockouts) is one of the best 154lb fighters in the world, and proved his credentials when he knocked out Ted Cheeseman in a Fight of the Year contender in October to claim the British title.

The 30-year-old also holds wins over the likes of Kieran Smith and Harry Scarff during his professional career, and as an amateur won the 2015 ABA Championships.

The Darlington boxer is currently ranked #11 in the world with the IBF, and looks certain for big things over the next few years after teaming up with Probellum.

He is the latest addition to Probellum’s elite roster of talent, having already signed the likes of Regis Prograis, Nonito Donaire, Donnie Nietes, Lee McGregor, Eimantas Stanionis, Arthur Biyarslanov, Taras Shelestyuk, Ricky Burns, Paul Butler, Lewis Ritson, Muhammad Waseem, Pat McCormack, Luke McCormack, Hebert Sousa, O’Shaquie Foster, Hovhannes Bachkov, Darius Fulghum, Eduardo Hernandez, Mark Dickinson, Brandon Moore, Jack Bowen, Jason Mallia and Francisco Rodriguez.

“I’m over the moon to take the next step in my career by signing with Probellum,” said Williamson. “It has already been a tremendous year after winning the British title, and now we can really kick on from here.

“Probellum have signed some of the very best boxers in the entire world, so to now be part of that stable is exciting. The future looks very bright.”

“Troy Williamson is a tremendous fighter and we are ecstatic to have him join us at Probellum,” said Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum. “There are some huge fights out there for him and the possibilities are endless for his career.

“The 154lb division is one of the very best in boxing at the moment, and we can’t wait to see just how far Troy can go on his journey.”

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

Sunderland, United Kingdom – December 18, 2021 – Probellum is pleased to announce the signing of highly-rated amateur sensation Ben Rees ahead of his plans to turn professional.

The Birtley fighter has had a glittering amateur career, with his accolades including five national titles, and a European bronze medal.

He now joins the booming North East boxing scene, becoming the latest star from the region to sign with Probellum, following in the footsteps of fighters such as Lewis Ritson, Mark Dickinson, Pat McCormack and Luke McCormack.

Probellum’s elite roster also includes Regis Prograis, Nonito Donaire, Donnie Nietes, Lee McGregor, Eimantas Stanionis, Arthur Biyarslanov, Taras Shelestyuk, Ricky Burns, Paul Butler, Muhammad Waseem, Hebert Sousa, O’Shaquie Foster, Hovhannes Bachkov, Darius Fulghum, Eduardo Hernandez, Brandon Moore, Jack Bowen, Jason Mallia and Francisco Rodriguez.

“I’m delighted to sign with Probellum and it’s the start of some big things for me,” said Rees. “Boxing in the North East is only going to get better and better, and I’m happy to be a part of it.

“I’ll hopefully make my debut in February, and I want to work my way up the domestic scene, winning the British title and then moving onto world titles from there. What Probellum can offer is in line with my goals, and I can’t wait to get started.”

“We’re thrilled to welcome yet another fantastic prospect to the team by signing Ben Rees,” said Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum. “We’ve got a superb mix of world champions, title contenders and rising stars at Probellum, and Ben fits right in as someone who can achieve massive things in the sport.

“Ben has already had incredible success during his time as an amateur, and we’re confident he will go from strength to strength and carry that form into the paid ranks.”

News on when Rees will make his professional debut will be announced in the near future.

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

Australian amateur star Skye Nicolson has signed a long-term promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing and will make her highly anticipated professional debut at Featherweight in 2022. 
 
The 26-year-old has helped pave the way for female boxing in Australia, winning gold at the 2018 Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast and more recently representing her country at the Tokyo Olympics. 
 
Nicolson narrowly missed out on becoming Australia’s first female boxing medallist since the 1988 Olympics when she lost to Great Britain’s Karriss Artingstall after three tightly contested rounds in July. 
 
Managed by Paul Ready and STN Sports, slick southpaw Nicolson now turns her attention to making her mark in the thriving professional scene at a time when boxing has never been bigger in her homeland. 
 
“It’s a dream come true to be signing with the biggest and best promotional company in the world,” said Nicolson. “I can’t wait to make big waves and show the world what I can do. I’m about to put Australian women’s boxing on notice. I have built an incredible team around me and have all the faith in the world that my career is being guided by the best and I can’t thank STN and Matchroom enough.”
 
“I’m delighted to welcome Skye to the Matchroom Boxing team as we continue our expansion into Australia,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “Skye is a special talent who turns professional at the perfect time and we look forward to boxing her all around the world to grow her profile and develop her as a fighter as she chases World Titles and Undisputed Championships.”
 
“Skye is a rare talent inside and outside the ring,” said Director of STN Sports Paul Ready. “She has a fan-friendly slick southpaw style and has the ability to be a global superstar. You will see her wow fans in the U.K, USA & most importantly built back home in Australia.”
 
You can follow Nicolson’s journey on Instagram: skyebnic

TAMPA, FLA. – December 17, 2021 – Jake Paul and Tyron Woodley both made weight and faced off for the final time at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa ahead of their anticipated rematch on SHOWTIME PPV tomorrow night, Saturday, December 18 (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) live from AMALIE Arena in Tampa.

Final weights and commission officials for the four-fight SHOWTIME PPV card are below.

Cruiserweight Bout (192-pound contract weight) – 8 Rounds

Jake Paul – 191 ½ lbs.

Tyron Woodley – 189 ½ lbs.

Referee: Christopher Young; Judges: Efrain Lebron (Fla.), James O’Connor (Fla.), Michael Ross (Fla.)

Lightweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Amanda Serrano – 133 ¾ lbs.

Miriam Gutierrez – 133 ½ lbs.

Referee: Emil Lombardi; Judges: Efrain Lebron (Fla.), Alexander Levin (Fla.), Michelle Walker-Serrano (Fla.)

Heavyweight Special Attraction (215-pound contract weight) – 4 Rounds*

Deron Williams – 211 ¼ lbs.

Frank Gore – 209 ½ lbs.

Referee: Christopher Young; Judges: Efrain Lebron (Fla.), Michael Ross (Fla.), Michelle Walker-Serrano (Fla.)

*The Florida State Athletic Commission has sanctioned the fight as an exhibition bout.

Junior Welterweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Liam Paro – 139 ½ lbs.

Yomar Alamo – 139 lbs. 

Referee: Frank Gentile; Judges: Alexander Levin (Fla.), James O’Connor (Fla.), Michael Ross (Fla.)

#        #        #

ABOUT PAUL VS. WOODLEY II: “LEAVE NO DOUBT”

Paul vs. Woodley II will see international superstar Jake “The Problem Child” Paul face former MMA world champion Tyron “The Chosen One” Woodley in a rematch of their August clash won by Paul. Paul vs. Woodley II titled “Leave No Doubt” will be the main event on SHOWTIME PPV, live from AMALIE Arena in Tampa, Fla., on Saturday, December 18 (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT).

The SHOWTIME PPV event will feature three additional professional boxing matches. In the co-main event, seven-division world champion and current unified featherweight champion Amanda Serrano will face 135-pound titleholder Miriam Gutiérrez. Three-time NBA All-Star and two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Deron Williams will take on legendary San Francisco 49ers running back, the No. 3 all-time leading rusher, Frank Gore in a four-round heavyweight special attraction.

In the telecast opener, undefeated IBF and WBO top-three ranked junior welterweight contender Liam Paro of Australia will face fellow unbeaten top-10 ranked, 140-pound Puerto Rican prospect Yomar Alamo in a 10-round junior welterweight showdown.

#PaulWoodley is produced and presented by Most Valuable Promotions and SHOWTIME Sports^® and promoted in association with Tony and Bryce Holden of Holden Productions. The pay-per-view telecast is produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV. 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, follow on Twitter via @JakePaul, @TWooodley and @ShowtimeBoxing, on Instagram via @JakePaul, @Twooodley and @ShowtimeBoxing, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.

Webster, Mass. (December 17, 2021) – The official weigh in for “New England’s Future VIII,” presented by Rivera Promotions Entertainment (RPE), was held today at Drafter Sports Café in Grosvenor Dale, Connecticut, for tomorrow night’s pro boxing event at Webster Town Hall in Webster, Massachusetts.

Tickets are priced at $75.00 (reserved seating) and $45.00 (general admission) and available for purchase or by contacting Jose Rivera (elgallojar@gmail.com/508.864.6954), AJ Rivera (anthoneerivera@gmail.com/774.272.2269) or any of the fighters.

Doors open at 6 p.m. ET, first bout 7 p.m. ET.

Fighters’ weights are below:

OFFICIAL WEIGHTS

MAIN EVENT – VACANT N. E. SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP (6)

Wilfredo Pagan (6-1-1, 3 KOs), Southbridge, MA by way of Puerto Rico 141.6 lbs.

Carlos Marerro, III (2-6-2, 0 KOs), Bridgeport, CT 137.4 lbs.

CO-FEATURE – SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS (4)

Oscar Bonilla (6-3-2, 1 KO), Bridgeport, CT 140.6 lbs.

Seth Basler (0-17), Marion, IL 140 lbs.

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT (6)

Josniel Castro (7-0, 5 KOs), Boca Raton, FL 151.4 lbs.

Lenwood Dozier (10-28-3, 5 KOs), Belcamp, MD SATURDAY

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS (4)

Bobby Harris III (3-0-1, 0 KOs), Worcester, MA 167.6 lbs.

David Rohn (0-10-1), Vila Park, IL 169 lbs.

SUPER WELTERWEIGHTS (4)

Anuel Rosa (2-0, 2 KOs), New Haven, CT 151.4 lbs.

Stacy Anderson (0-8), Albuquerque, NM 153.4 lbs.

HEAVYWEIGHTS (4)

Demek Edmonds (3-0, 2 KOs), Worcester, MA 198.4 lbs.

Wewerton Silveira Silva (0-1), Boston, MA by way of Brazil 209 lbs.

(Card Subject To Change)

INFORMATION:

Twitter: @RiveraPromoEnt, @JoseRiveraChamp, @KingRivera_, @ShearnsBoxing

NEWARK, N.J. (December 17, 2021) – – Welterweight prospect and New Jersey-native Vito Mielnicki Jr. previewed his Christmas Day showdown against Nicholas DeLomba during a press conference Thursday before they meet on Saturday, December 25 headlining FOX PBC Fight Night action and on FOX Deportes from Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

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

The FOX telecast will begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and also feature sensational unbeaten prospect Joey Spencer taking on Mexico’s Limberth Ponce for eight-rounds of middleweight action in the co-main event.

Here is what Mielnicki and his trainer Muhammad Salaam had to say Thursday:

VITO MIELNICKI JR.

“I want to thank my whole team for giving me the opportunity to display my skills on the biggest platform possible. I’m blessed to be back here fighting on Christmas Day in my home state at Prudential Center.

“We’re ready to put on a show for everyone on Christmas. This is going to be a great gift for everyone. We’re going to give you a great night of action.

“This is a dream come true for me. There’s no other way I’d rather spend Christmas. I’m living the dream at 19-years-old. I can’t wait to perform in front of a huge audience on FOX.

“I’m really excited to be able to fight in front of my home fans in the state of New Jersey. This is my toughest opponent to date, and I’m expecting a tough fight. You don’t want to miss this one, because we’re definitely delivering fireworks.”

MUHAMMAD SALAAM, Mielnicki’s Head Trainer

“We put a lot of good work into this camp. A lot of hard work every day to be at our best on fight night.

“This is going to be a great performance on Christmas Day. We put in the work and now we’re going to go out there and do what we do best.”

#

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 at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

(Dec. 17, 2021) — From two continents, a pair of pre-Christmas fight cards will stream live and exclusively in the United States on ESPN+. It all kicks off Saturday, Dec. 18 at the Ice Palace in Brovary, Ukraine, as 2012 Olympic silver medalist Denys Berinchyk defends his WBO International lightweight title in a scheduled 12-rounder versus Isa Chaniev (1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT).
 
Berinchyk (15-0, 9 KOs) has defended the WBO International belt five times, while Chaniev (15-3, 7 KOs), a former world title challenger, has won two in a row since a majority decision defeat to Pavel Malikov.

Also scheduled to appear on the card from Ukraine: Heavyweight knockout artist Vladyslav Sirenko (18-0, 15 KOs) goes for his fourth victory of 2021 in a 10-rounder against Andriy Rudenko (34-5, 20 KOs), and 2016 Olympian Dmytro Mytrofanov (11-0-1, 5 KOs) aims to extend his winning streak to 10 in an eight-round junior middleweight contest against Berikbay Nurymbetov (8-4-1, 3 KOs).
 
The international action on ESPN+ continues from Sydney, Australia, in the early morning on Tuesday, Dec. 21. Former world champion Andrew “The Monster” Moloney, fresh off his trilogy against Joshua “El Profesor” Franco, makes his homecoming ring return in a 10-round junior bantamweight bout against Froilan Saludar at The Star Event Centre in Sydney.
 
The Moloney-Saludar card will stream starting at 3 a.m. ET/12 a.m. PT. Moloney (21-2, 14 KOs) held the WBA world title briefly before embarking on his trio of fights with Franco. Moloney lost a pair of unanimous decisions to Franco, with a controversial no-contest sandwiched in between. Saludar (32-4-1, 22 KOs), a 32-year-old Filipino, is 4-1 since challenging Sho Kimura for the WBO flyweight world title in July 2018.

In other action from Australia, light heavyweight veteran Renold Quinlan (13-8, 8 KOs), will fight rising prospect Faris Chevalier (12-1, 7 KOs) in a 10-rounder, southpaw heavyweight Jackson Murray (2-0, 2 KOs) looks to make it three first-round KOs in a row versus David Tuliloa (2-3, 2 KOs) in a scheduled six-rounder, and junior lightweight Manuer Matet (3-1, 2 KOs) seeks to extend his winning streak to three versus Jye Lane Taylor (3-1, 1 KO) in a six-rounder.
 
About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 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).

ORLANDO, FL (December 17, 2021) – Well known boxing manager, Tim VanNewhouse has signed, Haitian Olympian Darrelle Valsaint, one of the brightest blue-chip prospects in boxing. The 19-year-old super welterweight was born in Orlando, Fla. and represented Haiti at the 2020 Olympics, making it to the middleweight quarterfinals before dropping a decision to the eventual bronze medalist Gleb Bakshi. Valsaint turned pro in November of 2020 and has a record of (2-0, 1 KO). His next fight is being planned for February of 2022.

“I want to make something big out of boxing and provide a better life for myself and family,” said Valsaint, who won gold at the U.S. Youth National Championships and National Junior Olympics in 2018. “The timing is perfect. My mentor Derick Lacapra and I stayed patient and interviewed many managers. We feel Tim’s our guy to drive my career forward and guide me into becoming a world champion. I can’t wait until February to show my talent and everything I’ve been working on in the gym.”

Valsaint is now based in Tampa, where he trains with Marc Farrait and Asa Beard. Farrait is best known for his work with super middleweight contender Edgar Berlanga, while Beard had trained former world champion Argenis Mendez.

“Valsaint has good physical attributes and tremendous ability to go along with his blistering hand speed and power in both hands,” said VanNewhouse, who’s stable includes prospects Najee Lopez, Jan Paul Rivera and Tommy Wu. “He’s a sensational boxer-puncher who can fight from the orthodox and southpaw stance. I’ve paired him with a wonderful group of coaches in Tampa led by Marc Farrait and Asa Beard. He’s on the right track to a bright future and I look forward to guiding him on this journey.”

Montreal, Que. Canada(December 17, 2021)–TONIGHT!! Christopher Brooker will look to add one more name on his list of upset victories when he takes on Steve Rolls at The Bell Centre in Montreal.

Brooker, who is managed by DKO Management, has a record of 16-8 with six knockouts is look to add Rolls (20-1, 11 KOs) to a list of upset victims that Brooker has on his ledger.

That list includes Leo Hall (8-0), John Magda (10-0), Antowyan Aikens (10-1-1), Gabriel Pham (6-0), Elvin Ayala (28-7-1) and Lanell Bellows (18-2).

Rolls of Toronto has wins over Steed Woodall (9-0-1), Demond Nicholson (17-1-1), Damian Ezequiel Bonelli (23-2) and KeAndre Leatherwood (21-5-1). The lone blemish on Rolls ledger was a spirited defeat to former unified world champion Gennady Golovkin. Rolls is coming off a 4th round stoppage over Gilberto Pereira Dos Santos on January 28th in Toronto.

At Thursday’s weigh in, Brooker was 166.4 lbs. Rolls was 166.8.

The bout can be seen live on ESPN+ at 8 PM ET

Photos by GYM Social Media

Saul Sanchez 121.9 vs Jose Estrella 122
Ruben Torres 136.4 vs Francisco Armenta 138
Brandon Benitez 126.9 vs Anthony Chavez 128
Manuel Flores 119.9 vs Leonardo Torres 120.1
Ivan Zarate 122 vs Roberto Rodriguez 120.3

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

Fight fans will be able to watch all Thompson Boxing fights, weigh-ins, and behind-the-scenes content, via their new Mobile App available for download on Google Play (Android) and Apple’s App Store (iPhone).

This event will stream live for free on the Thompson Boxing Promotions website (www.thompsonboxing.com), as well as their Facebook and YouTube
pages.

SAN ANTONIO, TX (December 16, 2021) – Former world champion, and light heavyweight Mexican superstar, Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (42-0, 28 KOs) of Mazatlán, Mexico, and his opponent, Cuba’s Yunieski “The Monster” Gonzalez (21-3, 17 KOs) hosted their final press conference today ahead of their 12-round clash on Saturday, December 18 live on DAZN. The fighters are scheduled to fight for the WBA Light Heavyweight Title eliminator at AT&T Center in San Antonio, TX.

Three-time world champion Seniesa “Super Bad” Estrada (21-0, 8 KOs) was also in attendance along with her opponent, the undefeated Maria “La Imparable” Santizo (9-0, 5 KOs) of Guatemala City, Gua. They are set to face off for Estrada’s WBA Minimumweight World title in a 10-round fight. Lamont Roach, Jr. (21-1-1, 9 KOs) and former world champion Rene “Gemelo” Alvarado (32-10, 21 KOs) were also onsite to talk about their upcoming career defining 10-round fight for the vacant NABA Super Featherweight championship. 2012 U.S. Olympic Bronze Medal winner and current WBC Flyweight World Champion Marlen Esparza (10-1, 1 KOs) and her opponent the long-reigning, former two-time world champion, Anabel “Avispa” Ortiz (31-4, 4 KOs) of Mexico City, Mexico were also on hand to discuss their upcoming battle for Esparza’s WBC Flyweight World Championship.

Prospects featured on the Golden Boy Fight Night on Facebook Watch portion of the fight card were also onsite to discuss their upcoming bouts. Fighters in attendance included, Luis Hernandez (21-1, 19 KOs) who will face off against Ruslan Madiyev (13-2, 5 KOs) in 10-round super lightweight bout; and Victor Morales (15-0, 8KOs) will fight Rudy Garcia (12-0, 2 KOs) in an all-out 8-round featherweight clash as both prospects put their undefeated records on the line.

Below are what the fighters had to say about their upcoming fights:

GILBERTO ‘ZURDO’ RAMIREZ, FORMER WORLD CHAMPION AND UNDEFEATED LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT WORD TITLE CONTENDER

“Gonzalez is a good challenge for me. This is an eliminator fight. I have been working so hard to get to the world title and I am ready to go through Yunieski Gonzalez to get there.

“I want the people to know me, and I enjoy, and want to be with the people. I was a little insecure before, but not anymore.

“Boxing is what I want to do for life. Even if I am not in the ring I want to be in boxing as a promoter. I want to thank Golden Boy Promotions and the whole team for everything they have done for me.

“Before when I won the title fights at 168lbs I felt empty inside. During the shutdown from corona virus, I started meditation, yoga, and I found myself. I was in a dark place, and I needed to change that to be the best in boxing. It just took time for me to learn to live with myself.”

YUNIESKI ‘THE MONSTER’ GONZALEZ, LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT CONTENDER

“I was surprised Zurdo wanted to fight me. I am happy and grateful for the opportunity as I know Zurdo Ramirez, and what a fight with him can offer me.

“Everything is good, we have put in a lot of hard work. I want to thank my team, and all the guys in South Florida who helped me with sparring. Everything has been going well and I just want to thank God for this opportunity.”

SENIESA ‘SUPERBAD’ ESTRADA, WBA MINIMUMWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION

“I feel most comfortable at this division. It’s a natural weight class for me. I have faced two great world champions and defeated them both. This has given me confidence in my skills and has prepared me mentally.

“I want to thank Golden Boy Promotions for giving me the platform to represent women’s boxing. We are now co-main, main events, and I just want to keep representing women’s boxing as much as I can.”

MARIA ‘LA IMPARABLE’ SANTIZO, UNDEFEATED WBA MINIMUMWEIGHT TITLE CONTENDER

“I want to thank God, Golden Boy promotions, and my promoter, Rios Promotions and FercoBox for this opportunity to fight for the world championship.

“To be a champion you have to face and beat the champion. I am going to face the world champion and win.

“I have to do what I have to do to win. I have been working very hard to get to this great opportunity and to be the co-main event is amazing. I know we both have great tools and we are going to put on a great show.”

LAMONT ROACH, JR, VACANT NABA SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE CONTENDER

“I know that Rene is a warrior and he is going to come with everything, and that is what we are expecting. This is the type of fight I have been asking for.

“This fight will showcase my skill, and will prove that I belong on this stage.

“I know he is going to be there to be hit all night, we are not overlooking him. He is a respected former world champion. But all I can say is that I am back, and am going for 3-3.”

RENE ‘GEMELO’ ALVARADO, FORMER WORLD CHAMPION AND NABA SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE CONTENDER

“I want to thank god for the opportunity. Training camp has been, a great opportunity to get back to fighting for a world title.

“We are here to do a good job, we are representing Nicaragua and I am looking froward to bring a world title back to my country soon.

“We have the ambition and all the desire to get earn a victory on Saturday night.”

MARLEN ESPARZA, WBC FLYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION

“Yes, I am excited for this fight. There is a difference between getting the belt and defending it.

“I am so happy to be defending my world title in Texas for the first time. I am excited to put on a good show.”

ANABEL ‘AVISPA’ ORTIZ, FORMER TWO-TIME WORLD CHAMPION AND WBC FLYWEIGHT WORLD TITLE CONTENDER

“It’s a new challenge in my career, moving up in weight. I had great training camp and am really well prepared to take on this new challenge.

“Seniesa was a better fighter than me that night. I want to loose against the best, that night, that was what happened. But I am always challenging myself to fight the best to be the best.”

LUIS HERNANDEZ, SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT PROSPECT

“I know this is not an easy fight. I never overlook any fighter. We did a good job at training camp and it will show on fight night.”

RUSLAN MADIYEV, SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT PROSPECT

“I have been training three months nonstop, and I am ready for this opportunity. I changed coaches and and so happy with my team now. I know I won my last fight, but this is boxing, we know that happens sometimes.”

VICTOR MORALES, UNDEFEATED VACANT WBC INTERNATIONAL GOLD FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE CONTENDER

“I am not surprised he took the fight. We are both young fighters, fighting for our first world title. All I can say is that we are going to go out there, show a lot of speed and move forward. We are both young we are going to put it all the line.”

RUDY GARCIA, VACANT WBC INTERNATIONAL GOLD FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE CONTENDER

“I am very excited. I have been working for this opportunity. Any strap, any belt, it’s an honor to fight for it. I come from a family where we don’t back down from any challenge. I am here to take away another 0 from another fighter.”

Tickets for Zurdo vs. Gonzalez are on sale now and are priced at $150, $75, $50, $35 and $25 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase at ticketmaster.com or by using the Ticketmaster App on your mobile device.

Zurdo vs. Gonzalez is a 12-round fight for the WBA Light Heavyweight World Title Eliminator presented by Golden Boy in association with Zurdo Promotions. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Saturday, December 18, at the AT&T Center in San Antonio, TX and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN worldwide starting at 6:00 p.m. PT / 8:00 p.m. CT / 9:00 p.m. ET.

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

ABOUT THE AT&T CENTER
The premier entertainment venue in South Texas, the AT&T Center is the home of the San Antonio Spurs (NBA) and the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo. The Bexar County-owned arena has also hosted hundreds of concerts and special events since opening in 2002 and underwent a $110+ million renovation in 2015 to enhance the fan experience at all levels. For more information, go to ATTCenter.com.

TAMPA – December 16, 2021 – International superstar and unbeaten pro boxer Jake “The Problem Child” Paul and former MMA world champion Tyron “The Chosen One” Woodley previewed their highly-anticipated rematch during the final press conference Thursday before they square off in the SHOWTIME PPV main event this Saturday, December 18 live from AMALIE Arena in Tampa.

The press conference also featured seven-division world champion Amanda “The Real Deal” Serrano and lightweight titleholder Miriam Gutierrez, who meet in the co-main event, three-time NBA All-Star Deron Williams and legendary San Francisco 49ers running back Frank Gore, who meet in a four-round pro boxing heavyweight bout, and unbeaten 140-pound contenders Liam Paro and Yomar Alamo, who square off in the telecast opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Also in attendance Thursday were Anthony Taylor and Chris Avila, pro boxers and MMA fighters who will clash in an eight-round super middleweight bout as part of the non-televised undercard.

Paul and Woodley will square off once again in a rematch of Paul’s split decision over Woodley in front of a sold-out crowd in Cleveland in August. The former UFC champion was Paul’s toughest opponent to date and the first fighter to take boxing’s newest star the distance. The judges scored the fight 77-75 for Paul, 77-75 for Woodley and 78-74 for Paul.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa:

JAKE PAUL

“It’s funny how someone considered a pro boxer like Tommy Fury gets sick and doesn’t want to fight. I’ve fought hurt before. You have to go get the job done.

“This is no problem for me. I’m getting a big bag to beat the guy I already beat. It’s going to be a bank robbery.

“We added the $500,000 knockout bonus to his contract for this fight, but I don’t need anything else, I already have everything.

“My career has become about shutting people up. This is another version of that. We’re here to up the ante.

“Just because I’m paying him to beat me, doesn’t mean he can. If anything, it’s to my advantage, because he’s going to come out recklessly and get caught.

“I hurt him multiple times in that first fight, and I didn’t even hit him with my best shot. It was a bad night and I still beat him. He should be embarrassed by that.

“Everyone better tune in to this fight on SHOWTIME PPV because if you don’t, you’re going to be missing out on one of the best fights out there.

“I’ve been hit harder in sparring than I was by Woodley. Some of those guys I fight can really crack. He won a UFC title with that right hand, but he hit me with it and I took it no problem.”

TYRON WOODLEY

“When I got the call for this fight, my thought was that things happened for a reason. Everything is aligned. Something wasn’t sitting right for me about Jake fighting Tommy Fury. They didn’t even have to finish their sentence before I said yes to the rematch.

“I’m just excited about the opportunity to redeem myself. We found out a lot about each other that night in the ring. We have mutual respect, but there’s still unfinished business.

“You have to be patient in finishing someone off in this sport. You have to respect their power and I’m not going to pretend like he doesn’t have power. We both do.

“In the second half of the fight I started walking him down and backing him up. I had him hurt, but he wasn’t out of it. I maybe could have been more active, but I have to go off of what I see.

“Every time I hit him, he ran. When I got hit, I came right back into his face.

“August 29 was a Christmas gift. On December 18, it’s going to be a bad night for Jake Paul. I just need to go out there and get it done. This is round nine to me.

“Jake was running in the first fight so I can measure his track speed more than his power. I give him a 10 out of 10 on his backpedaling. He should be a cornerback.

“I’m not going to bash his goals, but Saturday my goal and my mission is clear, and it’s independent of his. I’m coming to smash him.”

AMANDA SERRANO

“This fight is very important for me. Miriam is a tough and durable fighter. She stepped up to the task of fighting me and I have to get through her. There’s been a lot of upsets lately and I know she wants to do the same thing. I’ve trained super hard to make this a great performance.

“I know Miriam is tough because she went the distance with Katie Taylor. I just have to perform to the best of our abilities to get to the next fight. I’ve trained really hard for Miriam and she’s my focus come Saturday night.

“I have some stoppages already at lightweight. My power is real and I take it wherever I go, no matter the division. Gutierrez is a natural 135-pounder so I’m ready to test my power once again.”

MIRIAM GUTIERREZ

“This is a great experience. To have this experience against a seven-division world champion like Amanda Serrano is just amazing. I’m here to fight the best. I fought against Katie Taylor under different circumstances. Training was different during the pandemic because everything was closed. It was harder. Now I’m just here to enjoy the entirety of the experience, the fans, the atmosphere. I love every single second of it.

“Every fighter is different. I am one way; Amanda Serrano is another way. Katie Taylor is different than both of us. I have prepared to fight against the best.

“Amanda will be a great test for me. I want to see what I’m all about and what this sport is all about. I want the biggest challenges and I’m ready for everything that comes my way.”

DERON WILLIAMS

“This fight is between two guys who are high-level athletes in their respective sports and who have decided to dedicate themselves to the sport of boxing.

“It’s an interesting fight because neither of us has a fight before. There’s no tape on us. You will have to tune in on December 18 and see what happens.

“There is a stigma about basketball players being a little soft. I am here to show that it’s not the case. I have been training for a while in MMA. Making the switch to boxing has been a process that I have enjoyed. I have taken this camp very seriously. You are going to see that on Saturday.”

FRANK GORE

“I’m very excited for this opportunity. A lot of people are going to be really surprised by my skillset. I took this training camp very seriously. I’m going to show the world that I have boxing skills come Saturday night.

“This is going to be a good fight. I respect my opponent. I don’t look at Deron as a basketball player. Anyone who goes in the ring has some kind of toughness. He’s trained in MMA and wrestled before, so I know he’s tough.

“I’ve been the underdog all my life and I’m okay with it. I trained hard and I’ve been around this sport a long time. I’m ready and I trained my behind off. The fans are going to see some good stuff from me on Saturday night.”

LIAM PARO

“I have had a perfect camp. On Saturday night, it’s going to be an absolute mismatch guaranteed. I am going to explode on the international scene in a big way.

“I am world class. I’m coming for the whole 140-pound division. After Saturday night, I’m putting them all on notice. I’m going to do it in devastating fashion.”

YOMAR ALAMO

“He can say whatever he wants, but he has to respect the fact that I’ve taken out unbeaten fighters before. He has to know that this won’t be easy. I’m coming for him.

“I love it when people underestimate me. In the end, it’s just going to be me and him in the ring and I’m going to show him what I’m all about.

“I’m not going to underestimate anybody. I’m always prepared for anything my opponent can come at me with. The only thing I can promise, is that I am going to come out with the win.”

ANTHONY TAYLOR

“Since the Tommy Fury fight, I’ve fought twice and brushed up my skills. I’m a lot sharper, faster and better than ever.

“Now I have the opportunity to shut him up again. If Nate Diaz wants problems, we can settle it. I’m coming into this fight with a whole new skillset.

“Chris Avila doesn’t have anything for me. His whole Diaz Army has nothing for me. I’m coming into this fight to knock him out and make a statement. Come this Saturday night, he’s going down.”

CHRIS AVILA

“I’m coming to do my thing and leave the ring with my hand raised. He’s got nothing for me that I can’t handle.

“This is an eight -ound fight and that’s going to play to my advantage. He doesn’t have what it takes. He can say what he wants. He didn’t do anything but run in our MMA fight. He’s going to run again.”

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ABOUT PAUL VS. WOODLEY II: “LEAVE NO DOUBT”

Paul vs. Woodley II will see international superstar Jake “The Problem Child” Paul face former MMA world champion Tyron “The Chosen One” Woodley in a rematch of their August clash won by Paul. Paul vs. Woodley II titled “Leave No Doubt” will be the main event on SHOWTIME PPV, live from AMALIE Arena in Tampa, Fla., on Saturday, December 18 (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT).

The SHOWTIME PPV event will feature three additional professional boxing matches. In the co-main event, seven-division world champion and current unified featherweight champion Amanda Serrano will face 135-pound titleholder Miriam Gutiérrez. Three-time NBA All-Star and two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Deron Williams will take on legendary San Francisco 49ers running back, the No. 3 all-time leading rusher, Frank Gore in a four-round heavyweight bout, the professional boxing debut for both men.

In the telecast opener, undefeated IBF and WBO top-three ranked junior welterweight contender Liam Paro of Australia will face fellow unbeaten top-10 ranked, 140-pound Puerto Rican prospect Yomar Alamo in a 10-round junior welterweight showdown.

#PaulWoodley is produced and presented by Most Valuable Promotions and SHOWTIME Sports^® and promoted in association with Tony and Bryce Holden of Holden Productions. The pay-per-view telecast is produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV. 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, follow on Twitter via @JakePaul, @TWooodley and @ShowtimeBoxing, on Instagram via @JakePaul, @Twooodley and @ShowtimeBoxing, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.

Los Angeles, CA (December 16, 2021) Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions returns on Thursday, March 17, 2022 with a St. Patrick’s Day Bash as part  of its acclaimed Hollywood Fight Nights series at the Quiet Cannon – Montebello Country Club.

Advance Tickets are Now-On-Sale starting at $150 (VIP Ringside), $100 (Preferred Seating) and $80 (Reserved Seating), online at Hollywood Fight Nights / Seating. The Quiet Cannon – Montebello Country Club is located at 901 via San Clemente, Montebello, CA 90640. Doors will open on the night of the event at 5:30 p.m. PT. For more information on the venue please visit www.QuietCannon.com.

“The atmosphere at our packed show this past Friday night was incredible and we wanted to lock in our next event,” said Loeffler. “The fans truly are speaking loud and clear how much they love coming to our shows and at our new home at the Quiet Cannon.”

“We’ll be announcing a tremendous card shortly and can’t wait to make this St. Patrick’s Day Bash one of the most memorable nights of the 2022 boxing calendar.”

About 360 Promotions:

During 2017, Tom Loeffler founded 360 Promotions to provide rising boxers additional opportunities to develop their talents. 360 Promotions produced the acclaimed ‘Superfly’ series giving exposure to tremendous talents in the lighter divisions including world champions; Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez, Juan Francisco Estrada, Srisaket Sor Rungvisai, Naoya Inoue and Kazuto Ioka. In 2018, 360 Promotions launched the Hollywood Fight Nights series at the Avalon Nightclub in Hollywood, CA. Hollywood Fight Nights is billed as the VIP boxing experience which provides a platform for rising boxers to develop their talents as future champions.

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