MINNEAPOLIS (December 16, 2021) – Rising super lightweight contenders Richardson Hitchins and Malik Hawkins previewed their 10-round showdown before they step into the ring in the FS1 PBC Fight Night main event and on FOX Deportes this Saturday, December 18 from The Armory in Minneapolis.

The FS1 telecast begins at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT and also features unbeaten Dominican Olympian Héctor Luis García dueling Mexico’s Isaac Avelar in an eight-round super featherweight bout and undefeated light heavyweight prospect Suray Mahmutovic taking on fellow unbeaten Pachino Hill.

Following the action on FS1, FOX PBC Fight Night will be headlined by Cuban sensation and unbeaten WBA Super Middleweight Champion David Morrell Jr. defending his title in his adopted hometown when he faces 168-pound contender Alantez Fox.

Tickets for the event are on sale now and can be purchased through The Armory at http://ArmoryMN.com/ and through Ticketmaster.

Hitchins, a 2016 Haitian Olympian will look to keep his unbeaten record intact against his toughest competition to date, while Hawkins looks to bounce back from his first career defeat after losing to top contender Subriel Matias last year. The Mayweather Promotions fighters hope to solidify their contender status and move closer to a world title opportunity after Saturday night.

Here is what the fighters had to say about their upcoming showdown and more:

RICHARDSON HITCHINS

“People are excited to see me back in the ring. During this year off I realized how many fans really backed me, so I’m happy to give them a show on FS1.

“Hawkins and I are cool, not friends, but I know who he is and we’ve trained together. We even sparred together back when Gervonta Davis was training for Jose Pedraza and again when Gervonta was preparing for Ricardo Nunez.

“The first time we sparred, back in 2017, he was nowhere near my level. Second time around in 2019, I could tell he respected me. We gave each other work, but not enough to really remember how much of an impact he had on me.

“When fighters fight me, they come with their best. I know he’s taking this fight seriously, especially after coming off that loss.

“I always have a lot to prove, I never look past opponents. I have more to lose than him. I’m still undefeated with everything on the line in every fight.

“I took this year to learn more about myself. Boxing is a science, and that requires fine tuning everything. My inside game is on another level this time around. Overall, I’m becoming greater. This fight will show what separates elite from average.

“Saturday night will be pure domination. He will be forced to respect me. I box smart.”

MALIK HAWKINS

“My coach David Sewell and I have known each other for a while and he’s known me since I was a kid so it was a natural transition to add him as my coach. We’ve been working on pushing the jab more and punch angles.

“I had (WBC Featherweight Champion) Gary Russell Jr. in the gym with me too. Russell has crazy speed, as we know, so he really just helped me see punches before they come, and with my jab. Between my coach, the hunger I have as a new dad, and the work I’ve been getting in the gym, I know what I have to do Saturday night.

“Becoming a dad has pushed me because I no longer have to provide for just myself, I have a family to feed now.

“I’m familiar with Hitchins, we’ve sparred, but I can’t say that he’s the same fighter he was when we last sparred. He might have changed his game plan, but either way, I’ll be ready.

“I don’t really need to say much more, except I hope he comes with that same energy he’s been talking about on social media, on fight night.”

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ABOUT MORRELL VS. FOX
Morrell vs. Fox will see Cuban sensation and unbeaten WBA Super Middleweight Champion David Morrell Jr. defending his title in his adopted hometown when he faces 168-pound contender Alantez Fox in the FOX PBC Fight Night main event and on FOX Deportes Saturday, December 18 from The Armory in Minneapolis.

The broadcast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features exciting rising unbeaten prospect José Valenzuela taking on lightweight contender Austin Dulay in the 10-round co-main event, plus unbeaten super lightweight contender Alberto Puello dueling Minneapolis-native VeShawn Owens in a 10-round attraction.

Tickets for the event are on sale now and can be purchased through The Armory at http://ArmoryMN.com/ and through Ticketmaster.

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 @WarriorsBoxingProm, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

FRESNO, Calif. (Dec. 16, 2021) — Former unified junior welterweight world champion Jose Ramirez will return in front of a raucous home crowd. Ramirez, the pride of California’s Central Valley, will face former two-weight world champion Jose “Sniper” Pedraza in a 12-round junior welterweight battle Saturday, Feb. 5 at Save Mart Center in Fresno, California.

In a six-round heavyweight special feature immediately before the main event, Olympic silver medalist Richard Torrez Jr., from the Central Valley town of Tulare, California, will make his long-awaited professional debut.

The entire Ramirez-Pedraza card will stream live and exclusively in the United States on ESPN+. Undefeated lightweight prospect Raymond “Danger” Muratalla (13-0, 11 KOs), rising junior lightweight Karlos Balderas (11-1, 10 KOs), middleweight prospect Javier “Milwaukee Made” Martinez (5-0, 2 KOs), and 6’9 heavyweight Antonio “El Gigante” Mireles (2-0, 2 KOs) are all slated to appear on the card.

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets starting at $36 go on sale Monday, Dec. 20 at 10 a.m. PT and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com.

“Jose Ramirez has always demanded the biggest challenges, and he’s back in there with a tough former champion in Jose Pedraza,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “There are few more exciting atmospheres in boxing than when Jose fights in the Central Valley. The fans there love Jose, and he embodies the region’s blue-collar work ethic. I am also delighted that the Central Valley’s next superstar, Richard Torrez Jr., will make his professional debut in front of a sold-out crowd.”

Ramirez (26-1, 17 KOs) returns to the ring for the first time since May’s decision defeat to Josh Taylor for the undisputed junior welterweight title. Ramirez had made four title defenses since winning the WBC crown in 2018, and he unified the WBC and WBO world titles the following year with a knockout win over Maurice Hooker. Ramirez has drawn 65,794 fans through five headlining fight nights at Save Mart Center. When he fought Jose “Chon” Zepeda at Save Mart Center in February 2019, 14,034 fans — an attendance record for boxing in the arena — turned up. Pedraza (29-3, 14 KOs), from Cidra, Puerto Rico, is a former junior lightweight and lightweight world champion who has won three in a row since a decision defeat to Zepeda. He is coming off June’s eighth-round knockout over the previously undefeated Julian “Hammer Hands” Rodriguez.

“I am motivated to become world champion once again, and it begins with a tough fight against Pedraza,” Ramirez said. “There are no better fans than the ones who pack the Save Mart Center every time I fight. The Central Valley is my home, and it is always a great honor to perform for my people.”

“This one is personal to Ramírez,” said Rick Mirigian, Ramirez’s manager. “This is the fight that puts him back at the top of the sport and in line for the biggest fights.”

Pedraza said, “The new year will bring a big opportunity to battle against a former world champion like Jose Ramirez. This fight is very important for me because I know this will be the fight that will give me the opportunity to win a world title in a third weight division.

“There is no space for a loss. Not on my record, and much less in my mind. I know that Ramirez is a great fighter and always comes well prepared. He always comes in shape to give the fans a great fight.” 

Torrez made history as the first American Olympian to medal in the Super Heavyweight division since Riddick Bowe in 1988. Last month, he signed a long-term professional contract with Top Rank. Torrez was a U.S. National Championships gold medalist in 2017 and 2018, in addition to capturing three U.S. Youth National titles from 2014-2016. He went 154-10 as an amateur, and after a long international career in the unpaid ranks, he returns home for his pro debut.

“I can think of no better place to turn pro than in front of my Central Valley friends and family,” Torrez said. “They’ve supported me my entire amateur career, and I am thrilled that they will see the start of my professional journey. Let’s show everyone what it means to be valley grown!”

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LAS VEGAS (December 16, 2021) – Former North American Boxing Association (NABA) Welterweight Champion Kendo “Tremendo” Castaneda (17-4, 8 KOs) challenges undefeated, reigning North American Boxing Federation welterweight title holder Raul “Cougar” Curiel (10-0, 8 KOs) in a 10-round bout this Saturday night at AT&T Center in San Antonio.

Curiel vs. Castaneda is on a loaded card, presented by Golden Boy Promotions and headlined by the World Boxing Association (WBA) light heavyweight title eliminator between Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (42-0, 28 KOs) and Yunieski “Monster” Gonzalez (21-3, 17 KOs), streaming live on DAZN. The winner will become the mandatory challenger for WBA Super Light Heavyweight World Champion Dmitry Bivol (19-0, 11 KOs).

This is a potential career-changing fight for Castaneda, who won his first 17 pro fights before losing his last four matches. It should be noted that, keeping it in perspective, all four of Castaneda’s losses were fought in his opponent’s backyard and/or on their promoter’s show, and their combined record was 88-5.

“This is a career-changing fight for me because it puts me as a top-notch welterweight to reckon with,” explained the 28-year-old Castaneda, who is promoted by Roy Jones, Jr., (RJJ) Boxing Promotions. “An impressive win can get me a big fight in the welterweight division.”

Castaneda will still be taking on the promoter’s fighter, but this time “Tremendo” will have the advantage of fighting at home in San Antonio for the first time in more than 2 ½ years.

“It feels great to be fighting back at home since all the time I’ve been away,” Castaneda said. “I honestly don’t like traveling much. I miss my home crowed because all my fan support is here in San Antonio. Having my city behind me means the world to me.

Castaneda, who has never been stopped as a prizefighter, is fighting one of Golden Boy’s brightest prospects in 2016 Mexican Olympian Curiel, who will be making his first title defense of the NABF crown he captured this past June, stopping Ferdinand Kerobyan (14-1) in the ninth road.

“I believe I will outbox my opponent for 10 rounds and get a unanimous decision win,” Castaneda concluded. “I’d never heard of him. I’m ready for whatever comes my way, and I will execute for a victory.”

Kendo Castaneda is at the crossroads of his career needing to live up to his “Tremendo” nickname in order to turnaround his career.

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 is on its way to reinventing boxing. RJJ has already made a huge impact in the boxing community in a few short years. Creating exhilarating content for UFC Fight Pass, CBS Sports, Showtime, ESPN and beIN Sports in some of the finest venues across the country, RJJ has proven it is conquering the sweet science of the sport.

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman:

“Thank you to everyone in attendance today here in Manchester ahead of a huge night of boxing this Saturday, live and exclusively on DAZN all around the world from the Manchester Arena.

“A huge crowd is expected as we wrap up what has been a sensational year against all odds. Tomorrow night we have our 43^rd show of the year in Uzbekistan, Saturday night we have our 44^th show of the year in Manchester and I think it’s one of the best shows we’ve put on so far this year.

“Of course, the main event a Heavyweight blockbuster, the rematch between Joseph Parker and Derek Chisora. One of four brilliant 50/50 championship fights on this card, littered with great young talent and fighters emerging on the World Championship stage.” 

David Higgins, Founder and Director of Duco Events:

“It’s a pandemic and a crazy world. The fact Matchroom are still making events happen is fantastic. It’s a risky business, I think sometimes in boxing it’s fashionable to hate successful people, but I think everyone in the sport should be grateful Matchroom are keeping these shows going and providing the opportunities.

“We’re grateful for sure, and to Derek Chisora for always bringing a fight. Someone asked me today saying he’s going to come swinging trying to take Joseph’s head off does that worry you. I said no it doesn’t I’m sure we’ve prepared for that, but I’ve seen Joseph sometimes at his best in those types of situations. I’m sure Joseph is going to be cool and stick to the plan but if Derek wants to swing Joseph is ready for that too.”

Joseph Parker:

“It’s great to be back in Manchester with the team. We’ve had a tremendous camp; this fight will be different from the first for sure.

“Not having a crowd made a big difference, I think Derek feeds off the crowd, I feed off of them too. A lot of fighters feed off the crowd and just having no noise and hearing specific voices it’s pretty weird.

“The World Title, my eyes are just purely on this weekend and Derek Chisora. I want to probably knock him out between round six and ten.”

Andy Lee, trainer of Joseph Parker:

“I know how much Chisora would have improved with Dave because when I won the World Title, in my corner assisting Adam Booth was Dave Coldwell – I know all about him. I know how he will help Chisora improve.

“After the first fight when the bell rang, I thought they were going to give the decision to Derek Chisora, I said it to him in the ring. We got the decision and when I watched it back, I thought Joe won the fight. We won’t be negative, Joe’s going to be a lot more positive, he’ll stand a lot more, fight a lot more and be more consistent with his attack. It should make for an excellent fight.

“If anything, the crowd in there will be a benefit to Chisora more than Parker because he’ll feed of that and the energy, he’s a big favourite. He’s now the hero, people love him and his fight style, he’s given us great fights over the years. We’re here to do business, when Joseph gets in the ring, he’ll be different in terms of the spite he has, mentally and physically.” 

Derek Chisora:

Chose not to speak.

Dave Coldwell, trainer of Derek Chisora:        

“I think as a fighter gets more experience under their belt, they get wiser and realise certain mistakes that they made earlier on in their career they can’t afford to make as they go on. They just learn and get smarter.

“Derek when he linked up with David Haye, changed the way he lived nutrition-wise, looking after his body and keeping it maintained even between fights. Even though he’s getting older, that takes it’s time to really bed in and with consistency you get better results in how you perform.

“Right now, Derek is performing really well, I’m happy with the work he’s done in the gym, his commitment, his sparring sessions have been great. He’s in a good place and you’ll see on Saturday.

“I don’t expect it to go the distance. I think Parker’s link up with Andy Lee, he’s a very smart man when it comes to boxing, he’s worked with two of the best in business and to sprinkle a bit of Andy Lee’s knowledge in there you’re going to get results. I’m expecting a better, more aggressive and positive Joseph Parker, but in the same vein I’m seeing a better Derek Chisora.

“People have underestimated what a difference having a crowd makes to these guys, Derek loves the crowds singing his name and getting behind him. Certain fighters it doesn’t affect, your cool calculated boxing skillsters who’ll think their way through everything. Fighters like Derek and Joseph, they get that vibe, and it adds an extra few per cent. When you’re talking about performance levels in these kinds of fights, those little per cents add up.”

Jack Cullen:

“I’ve sold near enough 1,000 tickets, and I’ve promised everyone I’m winning the European Title, that’s my early Christmas present. I’m taking it with both hands and I’m going for it, I’ve had the European Title in my head for a long while and come 18^th December it’ll be a victory and a dream come true.

“You win a European Title and you’re right up there in all the rankings, anything can happen after this. I’ve just got to get past Sadjo on the 18^thand we’re ready for next year.

“I’ve just got to stick to my game plan, if I stick to it then it should be a good night for me.” 

Kevin Lele Sadjo:

“I did accept the challenge very quickly and thanks for the invitation. I am in form, my camp has had me training ready for a fight, when the opportunity arises to feature on a Chisora card it’s something you can’t miss. Without even watching Jack Cullen we were ready to sign up quickly and I’m hoping to return to France with the European Title.

“It’s funny you should choose the word war; the war is not in the crowd but in the ring. The war is where I position myself as a boxer, it’s not just the crowd for Jack Cullen, my crowd is watching me at home on DAZN. I think it’s going to be a superb encounter and the war is all about heart and I’ve brought my heart.” 

Zelfa Barrett:

“Bruno Tarimo, I’ve studied him, watched him, I know he’s a solid fighter. He throws the kitchen sink and has a bit of brains about him, but this is my World Title fight. I’m not thinking about anything else, he’s my target and I respect him and the struggles he’s had. This is boxing, it doesn’t matter where you’re from or what you’ve done, it’s all about what happens in the ring. I’m excited and more than ready for this.

“I’m doing this for my mum, it’s been a hard year but tough times, tough people. This is boxing and I can express how I feel in the ring, come Saturday night I’ll be victorious.”  

Bruno Tarimo:

“Firstly, I want to thank God for bringing me here safe, this is my first time in Manchester for a big show. Thanks to Matchroom for bringing me onto the show, I appreciate it. Thanks for the support of my team in Australia and Tanzania – for my country.

“I come from nothing, I can fight Super-Bantam but I have opportunity in Australia, it helps me but it doesn’t have the small weight. I have to take the big fight with big people to be World Champion and help my family.

“Zelfa Barrett is a good fighter, he’s smart and my team and I back in Australia were watching him. Every fighter is different, all the fighters in Australia know and support me, it’s going to be a good show on Saturday night.” 

Lerrone Richards:

“This is a world level fight, a real-world level fight, a fight that I relish, and I know I can win – win in great fashion.

“The winner of this fight, which will be me, can push on to world level. I’m excited about this fight, it’s an opportunity for me to showcase my skills at the higher level and shut the doubters up. Once I win this fight, the future is bright.” 

David Nyika:

“I feel very lucky to be here, thank you for having me on the card. I have the opportunity now to let people know who David Nyika is, I’m here to stay in the UK and ready to make my mark. I feel totally blessed to be part of such a big camp.

“I didn’t come away with a gold medal, so I technically didn’t achieve my ultimate dream of getting a gold. Onwards and upwards, this is an opportunity for me to make a living and continue down a path that I’ve dreamed of as a kid.” 

Sandy Ryan:

“We’re also looking to make a statement, my trainer Clifton Mitchell is holding me back a little bit, he wants me to start strong, sharp and box. When we see an opening, we’re going to take her out.

“Don’t worry, the knockout is going to happen, we’re going to show a little boxing first. It isn’t going eight rounds.” 

Jordan Thompson:

“It’s a pleasure to be back out, especially in my hometown, I’m looking to go out there and put on another explosive performance. Like I always say, artistic violence, that’s one thing you can expect with me.

“The Cruiserweight scene domestically is buzzing right now; I definitely see myself getting amongst that and coming out top of the crop. Like I said, I’ve got an amazing team in place, I’m looking forward to what next year brings. Definitely titles on the horizon no doubt about it.”

Cyrus Pattinson:

“I think activity is one of the most important things to be out on a regular basis. I know I’ve got a durable opponent for the weekend; he’s been with some of the domestic fighters I’ve been fighting for British and European Titles so I’m looking to make a statement on Saturday and do things other Welterweights haven’t been able to do.”  

Rhiannon Dixon:

“It was a bit frustrating hearing my opponent potentially pulled out again and all the mix up of this week. I’m just excited to get there on Saturday. I’m just looking to make my mark on 2022 and I just can’t wait for it.” 

Alen Babic:

“Two weeks ago, you [Eddie] slid into my DM’s and asked if I wanted to fight, I said yeah let’s go. People have routine victories, I have routine knockouts, I think Saturday is going to be another routine knockout. I’m going to operate like John Wick.

“I like this, I like this living. I give it all to boxing and for the next five to six years I just want to box – I don’t want to do anything else.

“Let’s go, like I said I have a brilliant team, we are going for the Bridgerweight Title. I’m really into it and let’s go, I’m going to give my whole life to it and I’m sure we’re going to get it.”

Sunderland, United Kingdom – December 16, 2021 – Please find below quotes and images from today’s final press conference as the fighters spoke to the media ahead of Saturday’s highly-anticipated Probellum Unstoppable event at the Rainton Arena in Sunderland.

The action-packed card is in association with promoter Phil Jeffries, and sees local hero Lewis Ritson meet Christian Uruzquieta, three-weight world champion Ricky Burns take on Emiliano Dominguez, unbeaten Thomas Patrick Ward face Leonardo Padilla, plus Mark Dickinson, Joe Laws, Joe Maphosa, Adam Cope, Mark McKeown, Alex Farrell, Jordan Flynn and Ewan Mackenzie are all in action.

It will be shown live on Free Sports, BoxNation and Premier Sports in the UK, on Fight Network in the USA and Canada, plus more networks worldwide. Here’s what all the boxers had to say at today’s final press conference:

Ritson: “It was a massive setback in my last fight. It wasn’t the best of performances, but I’ll make that right on Saturday. I’ll get a good win and then we’ll get people talking about me again and the dream can stay alive.

“I’ll wait and see what Uruzquieta comes with and brings. We know he can box and fight a bit, but we’ve got a plan for what to do on the night.

“I’ve heard what Probellum’s next plan is, so I need to make sure I can get through Saturday and then get people talking about me again.”

Uruzquieta: “I’m very happy to be here. I want to thank God, Probellum and Miura Boxing. I’m happy to come back to Europe and this will be a fight that I will win.

“I’m a Mexican warrior, and I don’t know if I will win by points or knockout, but it will be a great fight and I will definitely win.”

Ward: “My opponent is a good fighter, and I’m looking forward to Saturday. I’ve been knocking on the door for a world title for a long time. I was one of the best super-bantamweights, but my shot never come, now I’m pushing on at featherweight.

“There are a lot of good guys there who I’d love to fight. Both me and my opponent on Saturday are ranked high with the WBA, and this is a fight that will push us closer to a shot at that title. Leo Santa Cruz still holds the Super title, and then you have Leigh Wood and Michael Conlan fighting next year too.

“There’s Emanuel Navarrete who I was chasing down at super-bantamweight and not many wanted to fight him. It seems to be the same for him at featherweight, but that’s a fight that I still want. I’ve got to get through Saturday and then we’ll see where I go.

“At super-bantamweight it was getting too hard to make the weight, and my best performances wouldn’t have come from me at that weight. It was time to move up, and now this is a really good division to be in.

“I want titles, so whoever has them is who I want to fight. Just send the contract over. I’ll travel to you and you can choose where you want to fight and you can pick what gloves, it doesn’t make a difference for me.

“You can expect a good performance from me on Saturday. The fans are the real winners, as Probellum are putting on this great show. Look at the talent you’ve got here, so thanks to them for this event.”

Padilla: “First of all I want to thank God. This is a fight that can lead to something big for me, and this is a great chance for me to be on the big stage, so it’s good for my career. I’ve got a good team with me, and I’m here to win. I’ve fought better rivals than Ward, and soon you’ll be hearing ‘and the new’ after this fight.”

Burns: “I’m looking forward to being back. I never say no to any opponent, and whatever names they give to me that’s who I’ll get in there with. This is my first fight back in two years, and in that two years there have been a lot of fights spoken about and a few dates that have fallen through.

“In the build up everybody just kept going on about my age and when I would retire. I was thinking ‘you do know I’m fighting on Saturday don’t you?’ It felt like I was being forced out, but thanks to Probellum for making this happen, and we’ll get down to business on Saturday.

Dickinson: “I want to start off by saying a big thank you to Probellum for this opportunity so quickly after my debut. My debut wasn’t broadcast on TV, so this time it’s going to be good to be shown properly as a fight in front of my home fans.”

Laws: “After the loss against Rylan Charlton, I went back to the drawing board and straight back into the gym and asked myself a lot of questions.

“I’m enjoying the ride and I’m training hard, and I hope that on Saturday I can perform exactly like I have been doing in the gym.”

McKeown: “I can’t wait to get in there on Saturday and showcase what I’ve got. Big thanks to Probellum for giving me the opportunity to be on a card as big as this, and I won’t disappoint.”

Promoter Phil Jeffies:“It’s great that Probellum is coming to the North East, especially with the likes of Lewis and Tommy. This show will be a sellout, and it will be rocking inside the Rainton Arena.

“The fans in the North East know how to make an atmosphere, and it will be great to have them all in here. I’m chuffed to be working with Probellum. They know how to treat the boxers, and we’re going to push boxing in the North East.”

For images, please view HERE. 

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

LAS VEGAS (Dec. 16, 2021) — Irish amateur star Kieran Molloy, a 23-year-old southpaw from Galway, has signed a multi-year professional contract with Top Rank. Molloy, who is managed by Michael and Jamie Conlan’s Conlan Boxing, will make his long-awaited professional debut as a junior middleweight in early 2022.

Molloy is the latest Irish prodigy to ink a deal with Top Rank, a list that includes Tokyo Olympian Kurt Walker and undefeated welterweight prospect Paddy Donovan. He holds amateur wins over the likes of Donovan and undefeated welterweight prospect Quinton Randall.

“Top Rank has a long history of promoting many of the top Irish fighters, and I have the utmost confidence that Kieran Molloy can bring a world title home to Ireland,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum.

“I’m delighted to be signing with Top Rank, the biggest promotional team in world boxing,” Molloy said. “This opportunity enables me to become a future world champion. I’m excited to showcase my skills on the biggest stage.”

Added Jamie Conlan, “I’m very excited to see Kieran Molloy under the Top Rank banner, and most importantly under the experienced eyes of matchmakers Bruce Trampler and Brad Goodman. Top Rank has certainly found a diamond in the rough. I am looking forward to seeing how they shape Kieran’s career.”

Molloy turns the page to the paid ranks after winning Irish Senior Elite National titles in 2018, 2019 and 2021. Representing the famed Oughterard Boxing Club, he won a total of 11 national titles and fared well outside of his home nation, taking home a bronze medal at the 2018 EU Championships in Valladolid, Spain, and winning a Haringey Box Cup title in 2017. He started boxing at the age of 6, and within a decade, he already had a AIBA World Junior Championships bronze medal to his name.

Molloy closed out his amateur career in October with a unanimous decision over longtime rival Luke Maguire to win his third Irish title in four years.  

WHAT:          “New England’s Future VIII” professional boxing event

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

Wilfredo “El Sucaro” Pagan (6-1-1, 3 KOs), Southbridge, MA by way of Puerto Rico

vs.

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

CO-FEATURE — SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS (4)

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

vs.

Seth Basler (0-17), Marion, IL

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT (6)

Josniel “TG” Castro (7-0, 5 KOs), Boca Raton, FL

vs.

Lenwood “Mr. Composure” Dozier (10-28-3, 5 KOs), Belcamp, MD

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS (4)

Bobby “BH3” Harris III (3-0-1, 0 KOs), Worcester, MA

vs.

David Rohn (0-10-1), Vila Park, IL

SUPER WELTERWEIGHTS (4)

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

vs.

Stacy Anderson (0-8), Albuquerque, NM

SUPER WELTERWEIGHTS (4)

Eslih Owuso (6-0, 4 KOs), Worcester, MA by way of Ghana

vs.

Anthony Everett (1-9, 0 KOs), Lawrence, MA

CRUISERWEIGHTS (4)

Demek “Hightower” Edmonds (3-0, 2 KOs), Worcester, MA

vs.

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

(Card Subject To Change))

_________________________________________________________________________

WHEN:          Saturday, December 18, 2021

WHERE:        Webster Town Hall in Webster, MA

PROMOTER: Rivera Promotions Entertainment

TICKETS:     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.

OFFICIAL WEIGH IN: Official weigh in for “New England’s Future VIII” will be held Friday,

Dec. 17 at Drafter Sports Cafe, 1017 Riverside Dr., N., Grosvenor Dale, CT…3 p.m. ET start, OPEN TO PUBLIC

RING ANNOUNCER: John Vena

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

INFORMATION:

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

DUBLIN, IRELAND – BELLATOR MMA Middleweight World Champion Gegard Mousasi (48-7, 2 NC) defends his crown against undefeated #1-ranked middleweight Austin Vanderford (11-0) on Friday, Feb. 25, 2022, as Dublin’s electrifying 3Arena plays host to a BELLATOR world title fight for the second time in four months with BELLATOR DUBLIN: Mousasi vs. Vanderford.

Tickets for BELLATOR DUBLIN: Mousasi vs. Vanderford go on sale Saturday, Dec. 18 and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.ie and Bellator.com with a special presale taking place starting Friday, Dec. 17.

The co-main event sees Irish star and #5-ranked lightweight Peter Queally (14-5) return to action against Manchester, England’s Kane Mousah (13-4), as he looks to rebound from his recent title challenge at BELLATOR 270 last November.

In addition, a pair of lightweight contests are confirmed for the event, when Charlie Leary (17-11-1) takes on Davy Gallon (19-7-2) and Junior Morgan (3-0) faces Darragh Kelly, who’s 9-0 as an amateur and will be making his professional debut on Feb. 25. Fellow home favorite Brian “The Pikeman” Moore (14-8) is also set to compete on the card with his opponent yet to be confirmed.

Broadcast details and additional fights, including a host of Irish talent, are set to be announced in the coming weeks.

A two-time BELLATOR MMA Middleweight World Champion, Mousasi enjoyed his first reign in 2018, winning the title against Rafael Carvalho and defending it against Rory MacDonald, before losing a thrilling match-up to Rafael Lovato Jr. The Dutchman reclaimed his title in a huge clash with former welterweight champion Douglas Lima in October 2020 before another successful defense against John Salter in August 2021. Currently ranked fourth in the BELLATOR pound-for-pound rankings, Mousasi will be looking to produce fireworks in front of a packed 3Arena crowd.

Austin Vanderford has quickly established himself as one of the best middleweights on the planet, boasting an 11-0 career professional record. Since signing for BELLATOR in 2019, he is undefeated in five bouts, including a thrilling unanimous decision win over Fabian Edwards earlier this year at BELLATOR 259. The #1 ranked American Top Team product will look to emulate his training partner and reigning welterweight champion Yaroslav Amosov by becoming a BELLATOR world champion in his first attempt.

Queally meanwhile, who is currently ranked #5 in the lightweight division, will look to use the might of the home crowd to help him secure a decisive win over Mousah. Queally will be looking to bounce back from a heartbreaking title fight defeat toPatricky “Pitbull” Freire in front of the same Dublin crowd at BELLATOR 270 in November. The SBG standout is known for his exciting style and electrifying walkouts and will be looking to climb the lightweight rankings again and put his name back into title contention with a dominant victory.

After more than 18 months away from the 3Arena, BELLATOR’S return to the iconic Dublin venue twice in the space of four months is sure to be met with delight from the loyal Irish MMA fans. With another title on the line and one of the most iconic names on the BELLATOR roster in Gegard Mousasi competing at the top of the card against the #1 ranked competitor in Austin Vanderford, it promises to be a night to remember in the Irish capital. If Queally secures his comeback win in the co-main, it will become one of the great nights in Irish MMA history.

****

BELLATOR DUBLIN: MOUSASI VS. VANDERFORD MAIN CARD:

Middleweight World Title Main Event: #C-Gegard Mousasi (48-7, 2 NC) vs. #1-Austin Vanderford (11-0)

Lightweight Bout: #5-Peter Queally (13-6, 1 NC) vs. Kane Mousah (13-4)

BELLATOR DUBLIN: MOUSASI VS. VANDERFORD PRELIMINARY CARD:

Lightweight Bout: Charlie Leary (17-11-1) vs. Davy Gallon (19-7-2)

Lightweight Bout: Junior Morgan (3-0) vs. Darragh Kelly (Pro Debut)

*Card subject to change.

Please visit Bellator.com for additional information.

Updated schedule of BELLATOR events

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

Fri. Feb. 25 // BELLATOR DUBLIN: Mousasi vs. Vanderford // 3Arena // Dublin, IRE

****

About BELLATOR

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

TAMPA, Fla. (December 15, 2021) – International superstar and unbeaten pro boxer Jake “The Problem Child” Paul and former MMA world champion Tyron “The Chosen One” Woodley showed off their skills at a media workout Wednesday as they near their highly-anticipated rematch headlining a SHOWTIME PPV this Saturday, December 18 from AMALIE Arena in Tampa, Florida.

The workout also featured fighters competing on the pay-per-view undercard, including seven-division world champion Amanda “The Real Deal” Serrano, who faces lightweight titleholder Miriam Gutierrez 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 heavyweight bout and unbeaten 140-pound contender Liam Paro, who battles fellow unbeaten Yomar Alamo in the pay-per-view opener.

Rounding out the lineup were a pair of fighters competing on Saturday’s non-televised undercard. Entering the ring were veteran contender and Jake Paul’s co-trainer J’Leon Love, who returns to the ring to face Marcus Oliveira in an eight-round bout, and professional boxer and MMA fighter Chris Avila, who will square off against Anthony Taylor in an eight-round attraction.

Wednesday’s event took place at the Pool at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa, prompting Paul to take advantage of the location, transitioning from the ring to the pool to swim some laps to close out his public media workout.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

JAKE PAUL

“That was my last cardio workout of camp so we took advantage of the pool being right there. Had to get some laps in.

“I don’t think a fight between me and Tommy Fury will ever happen. He had his shot. I’d like to see him fight twenty more times to get the same payday he was going to get against me.

“I don’t expect this to be a more difficult fight. That’s because my skills have improved so much since the last fight. I’ve sparred 200 rounds since then and I’m able to improve so much because I’m still early in my career.

“The amount I’m able to improve between fights is still massive and I really went into this training camp with a chip on my shoulder because I wasn’t happy with my performance in the first fight.

“I learned in the first fight that I just have to stay focused and stick to the game plan. It’s boxing and you’re going to get tagged. Now that I’ve been through it, I have a lot more confidence going into this fight. Tyron was the first person who ever landed a punch against me and it was a great learning experience.

“If I would have went in there and just knocked him out, I wouldn’t be as good as I am right now. I wouldn’t have had the same hunger to improve in training camp.

“I’m always planting seeds for the future, because I’m so confident in my ability. There’s only one outcome for Saturday, and that’s me winning. I’m going to keep calling out big names.

“Woodley’s power was about a four out of 10. The shot he caught me with was a lucky shot while I was falling backward. My balance was just off so it barely hurt. I’ve been hit by people harder in sparring.

“There’s two ways that this fight goes. One, he could come out guns blazing and just trying to knock me out. Or he plays it slow and tries to survive all eight rounds. Either way, he’s going to lose.”

TYRON WOODLEY

“I was already training when I got the call for this fight. This is the fight that should have happened in the first place. This is the fight everyone was talking about and now we’re ready to make it happen.

“Jake was able to get some free shots off in the first fight that I shouldn’t have let him get. The defense is going to be tighter and the activity will be higher in this fight.

“Jake didn’t do anything that surprised me in the first fight. He was trying to play everyone else like he wasn’t a serious fighter. Other guys didn’t take him seriously and they got knocked out. I trained like I was fighting Mike Tyson.

“We already did this once. I know the opponent well already. They just needed a yes from me and they got it very quickly.

“There wasn’t a ton of volume for me from a boxing standpoint, but it was more than I had been doing in MMA. We’ve been trying to keep it in my mind to throw more. Not just any kind of volume, but the specific kind of shots I should have thrown.

“Rounds one through three, he didn’t hurt me, but he looked a lot busier than me. I’m the only one that landed damaging shots. I was pressing him and backing him up and it’s going to be the same thing this time.

“I think I surprised him in the first fight. They told him that I was going to gas out but I was the one who controlled the second half of the fight. They all lied to him about what I can still do.

“When I knock him out and beat him again, they’re going to forget about him. He gives people something to talk about and he’s doing it on purpose.”

AMANDA SERRANO

“I have knockout power throughout all the weight classes, but I do feel stronger at this weight. The girls at this weight are a little slower, so it’s going to be a different attack than what you saw from my last fight.

“I’m super excited to sign with Jake’s promotional companies. It was an easy decision. What he’s done in a short amount of time is amazing. He’s not just bringing entertainment, but he trains like the real fighters do. He’s got a championship mindset and I’m proud to be a part of that.

“For me and my team, we’re always making sure that I’m staying humble. I have a task in front of me and that’s Miriam Gutierrez. I always train like I’m the underdog. Once you overlook your opponent, you won’t get what you want in the future.

“A fight with Katie Taylor would be the biggest in women’s boxing history. We’re both top of the pound-for-pound lists, so that’s extremely exciting. We’re both tremendous fighters and we want to prove who’s the best on fight night.

“I’m expecting a war on Saturday. Gutierrez is a tough and durable fighter. She’s a natural lightweight too. This is a good measuring stick for me and Katie Taylor, because that’s the only person to beat Gutierrez. I know what I’m capable of doing at 135 pounds.

“For this fight I’ve been able to eat and stay on weight. I like the discipline that it takes for me making 126-pounds, but lightweight is where the big fights are.”

DERON WILLIAMS

“I’ve had great sparring partners to get me ready for Frank. I’m actually used to sparring guys more my size in the past before this camp. So I had to make that adjustment but I’m used to it by now.

“There’s always nerves when you’re going into a fight, but this was a pretty quick yes to accept this fight. We’ve trained for more than four rounds, but I know that four rounds in a real fight is different than sparring.

“I’m a fan of a lot of guys in combat sports. I’ve seen behind the scenes what it takes for them to compete. I just have so much respect for what fighters do and the grind that they have to go through on the way up.

“This is one of those bucket list things that I’ve always wanted to do. I’ve always been a fan of all the different combat sports and had this fantasy about fighting. It became a reality and it was a chance I had to jump at.

“I definitely want to represent for my brotherhood with the NBA guys. There’s a lot of guys who are probably going to be wagering on me and that definitely comes into play.”

FRANK GORE

“I have been doing this for a while. I show my guys on the field what I’m about, and I’m going to show Deron Williams on Saturday.

“I have been cardio training to get myself ready for NFL seasons. This past year, I wasn’t really sure about whether I was going to play football or not. My coach told me that I should take a shot at boxing, and I did.

“Ochocinco (former NFL wide receiver Chad Johnson) fighting on the Mayweather vs. Paul undercard inspired me. We got in the gym around the same time. If you go to his Twitter page, you will see he and I in the same gym in 2006. I wasn’t really surprised when I saw him box. I told a lot of my friends that he was going to be good, and I knew how hard he took it. I just wish he would have had more time to prepare. He would have been way better. I still think he won the fight.

“I stopped playing football at 208 pounds as I got up in age. As you get older, you want to get lighter to help your bones and body. Right now, I am probably about 211, but I’m right there at my fighting weight.

“Right now, if a team in the playoffs has a great chance to make a run and go to the Super Bowl, that is the only way I will go back. I just feel like I did everything. The only thing I didn’t do was win a Super Bowl. I had two ACL and two shoulder injuries, and to be able to play 16 years, gain 16,000 yards, and make five Pro Bowls, I was blessed. The only thing I wasn’t blessed to get is a Super Bowl ring.

“I have gone through this fight so many times. I take my hat off to Deron and to any guy who would get in the ring. Even though I’ve been around the sport enough, I am still learning the boxing game. For both of us to get in the ring, I salute him.”

LIAM PARO

“This is what dreams are made of. I’m super excited to run the Australian flag high. Everyone saw what George Kamobsos did in the U.S., and I’m looking to follow him up and make everyone proud.

“This has been an exciting journey. I’m here in Tampa to take care of business Saturday night and then move toward the world title.

“I’m ready to make a statement on Saturday night. I can’t look past this fight, but I’m going to be ready for a world title whenever the opportunity arises. I want to be the king of this division.

“I’m bringing excitement. I can do anything in the ring and adapt to whatever is thrown at me. I can box his ears off for 10 rounds or beat him up in the phone booth.

“This is the type of fight where the winner is really going to rise and the loser is going to take some steps back. You’re going to see on Saturday night that I mean business.”

J’LEON LOVE

“My opponent is a tough fighter. He is a cagey fighter, a veteran. You can never look past a guy like this. He has been in there and fought for a world title before. He has the experience. I am sure he is going to bring it as much as he can.

“Marcus Oliveira is a veteran. He fought for the WBA title. I don’t know what to expect. There’s not that much out there on him. I just have to have a sharp eye, a sharp mind, and let my talent take me to victory.

“Obviously going to Puerto Rico, Jake is not playing at all. People don’t see behind the scenes. He is 100 percent. He is not playing boxing; he is boxing. We spar, we hit him. We bring in real work. This guy is taking this for real.

“The first Woodley fight had to happen the way it did for Jake to realize what his full potential is. Now, he has a second chance at it. Now, he is able to go back, study, and see his mistakes. Now he knows what he can capitalize on for this next fight.

“I wouldn’t change the first fight at all. You took a guy that has never done this before, with no amateur background, to go eight rounds with a UFC world champion. Now, he can go back, critique himself, fix the mistakes, tighten up a couple of bolts, and go out here and do it the way he wants to do it.

“I am going to do both coaching and boxing in 2022. The best teaching sometimes is watching. Jake is able to pick up things from me, and I am able to pick up things from him in terms of work ethic. He will outwork anybody. This dude doesn’t stop. We have to tell him to chill and take a break. He just wants to keep going.”

CHRIS AVILA

“This is something we do all the time. I train in boxing more than MMA. I have a boxing background and it’s something I did before MMA.

“I’m just a competitor period. I like fighting MMA and boxing. I’m definitely comfortable fighting standing up.

“Me and the Diaz brothers (Nick and Nate) are from the same area and I had always wanted to train with them. I met them when I was about 17 years old and I started sparring all of them. Then I just never left.

“I thought I won the MMA fight I had against Taylor. I should have finished the fight. I had it wrapped up a few times and then it went to a decision and I didn’t get a fair shake. I’m planning on making sure that doesn’t happen Saturday. I’m putting a stamp on this and I’m taking him out.”

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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.

New York (December 15, 2021)–This past Saturday night, John Bauza took apart Michael Williams Jr, by scoring a 4th round stoppage in a scheduled eight-round bout that featured undefeated super lightweights.

Bauza is managed by Split-T Management.

The fight took place at the famed Madison Square Garden, and was streamed live on ESPN +

In round two, Bauza clocked Williams with an overhand left that sent him to the deck. Williams kept kneeling on the canvas in an effort to slow down Bauza’s attack. In round four, Bauza dropped Williams three times. The first came from a combination on the ropes. The 2nd came from a perfect left. Williams finished the fight with a perfect straight left to the face and the fight was stopped at 2:18.

Bauza, 140.2 lbs of Puerto Rico is now 16-0 with seven knockouts. Williams, 138.9 lbs of Fayetteville, NC is 19-1.

Bauza is promoted by Top Rank.

photos from Mikey Williams / Top Rank via Getty Images

On Saturday, January 22, 2022, in the Lincoln Ballroom of the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center in Dearborn, Michigan, Salita Promotions returns for another instalment of their popular “Detroit Brawl” series of professional boxing shows.

Appearing in the night’s 10-round middleweight main event will be WBC #9- and WBO #15-ranked middleweight Hugo “The Boss” Centeno Jr., taking on an opponent to be announced shortly.

Also scheduled to appear in the co-main event is power-punching undefeated Detroit middleweight “prospect to watch” Marlon Harrington (5-0, 4 KOs) in a six-rounder vs. TBA.

Featured in separate eight-round battles, each against opponents to be announced, will be the always-exciting top super-featherweight contender Alejandro “Pork Chop” Guerrero (12-2, 9 KOs) of Irving, Texas; as well as Detroit super middleweight Winfred Harris Jr. (20-1-1, 10 KOs); and undefeated Houston-based welterweight Quinton Randall (8-0, 2 KOs).

And in a very special six-round pro debut will be Salita Promotions’ most recent promotional signee, popular Grand Rapids, Michigan-based Team USA Captain and bonafide amateur star Joseph “Sug” Hicks Jr., who will begin his fast-track route to potential stardom against TBA.

?Tickets for “Detroit Brawl” start at $35 (service fees will apply). Order tickets online or call or visit the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center Box Office (Ph: 313.943.2354) at 15801 Michigan Ave. in Dearborn during Box Office hours: Thursday and Friday from 11 am to 4 pm and 5 pm to 8:30 pm on the day of the event. PLEASE NOTE: tickets ordered online will be mailed up to one week prior to event date. Tickets ordered within a week of event will be placed in will call in the box office for pickup. A limited quantity of VIP tickets are also available by calling Lina at 313.529.7604.

?30-year-old Centeno Jr. (28-3-1, 15 KOs) is a one-time world-title challenger from Oxnard, California, who trains with Eric Brown at Freddie Roach’s Wild Card Boxing Club in Hollywood. Inspired by his father Huge Centeno Sr., whose boxing career was cut short because of a motorcycle accident, Centeno started boxing at age five and was an amateur boxing standout (going 90-9). He was last seen scoring a second-round stoppage of Kenneth Council in September 2021.

“I’m very excited to have the chance to headline in Detroit,” said Centeno during a break in training. “It’s a great opportunity to be able to fight and create a bigger fan base. Winning a fight like this would lead to fighting for another world title, so I’ve been training harder than ever to give the fans a great show and remind people who Hugo Centeno is.”

Undefeated Detroiter Marlon Harrington (5-0, 4 KOs) got off to a relatively late start in boxing at age 21, but has quickly picked up the craft and gone on a tear through the professional ranks. Popular with fans for his ruthless pursuit of prey, the up-and-coming middleweight says he’ll be more than ready when fight night comes.

“I feel great. I can’t wait to be fighting in front of family and friends again,” said Harrington. “They energize me. It feels great, fighting at home in front of my loved ones. Training is going great like always.”

“The proof is in the pudding with Marlon,” added his trainer, Julio Hernandez. “He stopped his last five amateur opponents. His incredible work ethic is what shows up in the ring. Marlon is a true ‘rags to riches’ story. He came from nothing. He works hard as a barber and supports his two kids. He’s a great man and fighter.”

Detroit native Winfred Harris Jr. (20-1-1, 10 KOs), a once-beaten 26-year-old super middleweight boxer/puncher fighting back home for the first time in three years, says he’s got a surprise in store for fans during his eight-rounder on fight night.

“I feel like I was in the oven cooking a bit, so my performance is going to taste a little better than something out the microwave,” said Harris. “I’ve been working on my craft the last three years, but now a lot of people have been waiting to see me fight at home again. So I’m back.”

The pro debuting Hicks Jr. also got off to a relatively late start at age 19, but the naturally gifted fighter quickly fought his way to being named Captain of Team USA’s international amateur-boxing squad. The Grand Rapids native was also a National Golden Gloves Champion in 2019; a three-time Eastern Elite Qualifiers Champion (2017, 2018, 2019); and a five-time Michigan Golden Gloves Champion (2013, 2015, 2017, 2018 and 2019) in his distinguished 100-bout amateur career.

“It feels amazing to be doing this so close to home, so I can have my family and friends there to support me,” said Hicks. “For my debut, I’m working on slowing things down. In an amateur fight, everything is fast. The pro game, you sit down on your punches more and stick the jab. I will say I’m more excited than usual. I’m always nervous before a fight, even if I know I can beat the guy in the first round. I also haven’t fought in a year, so this is really exciting for me to be getting back in the ring.”

“I am excited about the return of the “Detroit Brawl” boxing series,” said event promoter, Dmitriy Salita. “The January 22 show will showcase top boxing talent from around the country and the city of Detroit. This is another step in making Detroit a hub for boxing in the USA.”

The Ford Community & Performing Arts Center is located at 15801 Michigan Ave. in Dearborn. On fight night, doors open at 6:30 pm and the action starts at 7:00 pm.

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About Salita Promotions

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

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

LOS ANGELES, CA (December 15, 2021) – Super bantamweight contender, Saul “The Beast” Sanchez (17-1, 10 KO), of Pacoima, CA, is scheduled to face Jose Estrella (23-17-1, 16 KOs), of Tijuana, Mexico, in a ten-round main event bout this Friday December 17, on Thompson Boxing Promotions’ “Path to Glory” card, their final event of 2021.

This event will take place at the DoubleTree Hotel in Ontario, California, promoted by Thompson Boxing Promotions. Ruben Torres (16-0, 13 KOs) vs. Francisco Armenta (12-0, 4 KOs) will serve as the 8-round co-main event as the two undefeated lightweights will put their unbeaten records on the line.

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

Here is what Saul Sanchez had to say about his recent training camp, his matchup with Estrella, and more.

On his recent training camp.
“I’ve been working really hard with my head trainer Manny Robles and his assistants. Together we put in the hard work that will show when I step in the ring this Friday. At this point in my career there is no room for error, so I’ve taken my training to the next level. I’m in great shape and I’m getting better as a fighter every time I step in the ring.”

On his matchup with Jose Estrella.
“On paper, it is easy to not be excited, but I know he faced former world champion Luis Nery, and that is someone down the road I could face, and as a potential world champion, these are the tests you will face. I’m expecting a tough fight and I know Estrella is coming to win. I must control the action from the opening round. My goal will always be to end the fight before the final bell.”

On what 2022 will look like for him.
“Honestly, I know I am ready for a world title or a title eliminator and now it just comes down to when I get the chance, I have to take it. I have been at this for a very long-time, and done it at a high-level for over a decade, and next year I want to prove I am one of the best in the world.”

On headlining Thompson Boxing’s final event of the year.
“Thompson Boxing isn’t just my promoter, they’re family. They believed in me, even when I lost, and have gotten me the right fights at the right times to get me to where I need to go. Now that I’m in a position to fight for a world title, each and every fight I have on their shows is even that much more special. This is a good way to end my year. I defeated Mario Hernandez on a card around this time last year, and now to end the year with momentum after a huge year will allow me even bigger opportunities next year. I am not looking past my opponent, but I am looking to make a statement.”

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

Please check our Facebook Page, watch our YouTube channel on Thompson Boxing TV and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @ThompsonBoxing.
TB’s new mobile app is now available for download on Google Play (Android) and Apple’s App Store (iPhone).

MONTREAL (Dec. 15, 2021)— Artur Beterbiev, the Russian-born puncher who moved to Montreal nearly a decade ago to begin his professional career, will finally get the chance to defend his titles in his adopted hometown. Beterbiev (16-0, 16 KOs), boxing’s only world champion with a 100 percent knockout rate, will defend his WBC and IBF light heavyweight titles against 2012 U.S. Olympian Marcus Browne this Friday at Bell Centre in Montreal.

Browne (24-1, 16 KOs), who once held an interim world title, returned to the ring in April with a 10-round decision over Denis Grachev. He lost his interim belt in August 2019 via technical decision to Jean Pascal, which came off the heels of his career-best victory over Badou Jack. Browne, in his first bout outside of the United States, hopes to stun Beterbiev, who is upwards of an 11-1 betting favorite. 

Beterbiev unified world titles in October 2019 with a 10th-round TKO over Oleksandr Gvozdyk and returned to action in March with a 10th-round stoppage over Adam Deines.

At Wednesday’s press conference, this is what the main event fighters and their trainers had to say.

Artur Beterbiev

“We are ready. We had a good training camp, and I am ready to show my best on Friday night.”

Marc Ramsay (Beterbiev’s Trainer)

“I’m very enthusiastic about this fight. It’s been a long time since we have been able to defend the titles in front of a crowd in Montreal, and we look forward to that. It’s been a great training camp. We’ve seen Marcus before, so we know his strengths and weaknesses, and you will see what happens on Friday night.” 

Marcus Browne 

“We trained hard for the fight. He’s a tough customer, but on Friday night, we are changing the narrative.” 

“I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t believe, and come Friday night, you will see. I’m tired of talking. I want to fight.” 

Derrick James (Browne’s Trainer)

“We’re very happy to be here. I found out when we got here that Marcus was a huge underdog, and we embrace that. This will be a historic fight. After Marcus wins the title, it will make me the only trainer in history to have three unified champions at the same time: Marcus Browne, Jermell Charlo, and Errol Spence.” 

“I know who I am. I know Marcus will do what I ask him to do. When he came to me, he was already a good fighter and I just helped him build on that. I believe in myself, and I believe in Marcus.”

Friday, December 17, 2021

ESPN+, 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT

Artur Beterbiev vs. Marcus Browne, 12 rounds, Beterbiev’s WBC/IBF Light Heavyweight World Titles

Steve Rolls vs. Christopher Brooker, 10 rounds, super middleweight

Yan Pellerin vs. Francisco Rivas, 10 rounds, Vacant NABO Cruiserweight Title

Arthur Biyarslanov vs. Alan Ayala Crisosto, 8 rounds, junior welterweight

Batyrzhan Jukembayev vs. Juan Jose Martinez, 6 rounds, welterweight

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).
 

WHAT: “The Triple Crown of Boxing” professional boxing

WHEN: Friday, December 17, 2021

WHERE: Bell Center in Montreal, Quebec, Canada

WHO: MAIN EVENT –WBC & IBF LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS (12)

         Artur Beterbiev (16-0, 16 KOs), Champion, Montreal, Quebec, Canada by way of Russia

vs.

          “Sir” Marcus Browne (24-1, 16 KOs), Challenger, Carteret, New Jersey, USA



         CO-FEATURE – VACANT IBF FEMALE SUPER WELTERWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP (10)

         Marie-Eve Dicaire (17-1, 0 KOs), Saint-Eustache, Quebec, Canada

vs.

          Cynthia “Canelita” Lozano (9-0, 7 KOs), Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico



         VACANT NABO CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP (8)

         Yan “Wild Thing” Pellerin (12-1, 5 KOs), Grandby, Quebec, Canada

vs.

         Francisco Rivas (15-2, 5 KOs), Allende, Coahuila de Zaragoza, Mexico



         SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS (8)

         Steve Rolls (20-1, 11 KOs), Toronto, Ontario, Canada

vs.

         Christopher Brooker (16-8, 6 KOs), Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA



          SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS (8)

         Movladdin Biyarslanov (8-0, 6 KOs), Toronto, Ontario, Canada by way of Russia

vs.

         Alan “Superman” Ayala Cristopher (9-2, 5 KOs), Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico



         HEAVYWEIGHTS (8)

         Brandon Moore (10-0, 6 KOs), Lakeland, Florida, USA

vs.

          Abraham Pascual (14-8, 12 KOs), Tlaxcala, Tlaxcala, Mexico



          SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS (8)

         Mazlum Akdeniz (14-0, 7 KOs), Montreal, Quebec, Canada

vs.

         Arturo Bustamante (9-4, 5 KOs), Mexico City, Distrito Federal, Morelos, Mexico

SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS (6)

         Batyrzhan Jukembayev (18-1, 14 KOs), Montreal, Quebec, Canada by way of Kazakhstan

vs.

         Juan Jose “Piquet” Martinez (28-10, 10 KOs), Tlaxcala, Tlaxcala, Mexico



         SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS (8)

         Mazlum Akdeniz (14-0, 7 KOs), Montreal, Quebec, Canada

vs.

         Arturo Bustamante (9-4, 5 KOs), Mexico City, Distrito Federal, Morelos, Mexico

LIGHTWEIGHTS (4)

Eric Basran (pro debut), Montreal, Quebec, Canada

vs.

Ariel Gonzalez Vazquez (1-1-2, 0 KOs), Mexico City, Distrito Federal, Morelos, Mexico

(card subject to change)

Co-Promoters: Top Rank & Groupe Yvon Michel (GYM), presented by Mise-O-Jeu

How To Watch: ESPN + in the United States, as well as distributed on pay-per-view in Canada, by Bell TV, Canal Indigo, Shaw TV and FITE.TV, as well as certain authorized commercial establishments

Tickets: On sale and available for purchase at evenko.ca. Group reservations can also be made by contacting GYM at info@groupeyvonmichel.ca

FACEBOOK: @groupeyvonmichel

INSTAGRAM: @groupeyvonmichel

TWITTER: @yvonmichelGYM

GroupeYM #TripleCrown #BeterbievBrowne #DicaireLozano

Source: Yvon Michel Group

ABOUT GROUPE YVON MICHEL (GYM): Groupe Yvon Michel is a professional boxing promotion organization founded in 2004 by Yvon Michel, Alexandra Croft and Bernard Barré, each still active within the company. GYM is the most prolific organization Canadian professional boxing history. Since its founding, GYM has promoted 158 events in Quebec, all broadcast in Quebec on RDS, TVA Sports or Radio-Canada, in addition to participating in thirty-seven international events outside Quebec. Seven boxers became world champions: Joachim Alcine, Jean Pascal, Adonis Stevenson, Artur Beterbiev, Eleider Alvarez, Marie-Eve Dicaire and Oscar Rivas. seventeen of the organization’s boxers have fought in forty-nine world championship bouts, sporting an excellent record of 25 wins, 22 losses and 2 draws. During this period, the major American television networks were more active than ever in coming to Quebec to broadcast the most important events of the organization. On thirty-five occasions, major American networks broadcasted a GYM event, an exceptional showcase of Quebec-based boxing, including HBO (8), Showtime (7), ESPN2 (10), Wealth TV (4), Spike TV (2), ESPN ( 2), CBS (1) and NBC Sports (1).

Derek Chisora has promised to exact revenge on Joseph Parker when they rematch for the WBO Intercontinental Heavyweight Title at the AO Arena in Manchester this Saturday December 18, live worldwide on DAZN (with the exception of New Zealand and Samoa).

Chisora (32-11, 23 KOs) was left angered by what he felt was more rough treatment by boxing judges following his split decision points loss to former WBO World Champion Parker earlier this year – the eleventh loss of his illustrious 43-fight career in boxing’s glamour division. 

The 37-year-old knocked Parker down inside 10 seconds of their first meeting and applied plenty of pressure and punishing body shots during a busy first half of the fight, but it wasn’t enough as the New Zealand star responded well in the second half of the fight, sealing a close win with two cards of 116-111 and 115-113.

Fed up go being on the wrong end of what he believes to be harsh decisions against him, ‘WAR’ Chisora insists he will take this weekend’s highly anticipated clash out of the judges’ hands by delivering an emphatic knockout win to end the year with a bang. 

“I don’t think that they wanted to give me the rematch really,” said Chisora. “And if I was him, I wouldn’t take the rematch, I would have moved on – but I was 100 per cent sure that I wanted the fight. Different judges score fights in different ways. What are we scoring now? For the pressure fighter and making the fight happen? Because if I don’t go forward, we can just stand there and look at each other. 

“I caught him off-balance maybe because it wasn’t a powerful knockdown and when he got up he was fine. He’s got good hands. You can tell he’s bulked up a bit, he’s packed more strength on since the first fight so you can see he’s coming with more power punches.

“If you look at his record from when he won the WBO title, he boxed Andy Ruiz in his hometown and he didn’t KO him, he played it safe, he defended it here against Hughie Fury and played it safe and then he boxed AJ and he froze and played it safe. So, you can tell a fighter, the guys that really want to fight, he might tell himself he wants to fight but really and truly, he doesn’t want to be there.

“It’s been two years since I’ve boxed in front of a crowd, it’s going to be amazing, and I hope I don’t freeze! I enjoy it, how could you not? I think if you sell thousands of tickets, you enjoy it. AJ, Canelo, Dillian, me – we all sell out arenas and we love it. You know people are coming to watch you fight and you want to give them a good night. It’s a show, you must give them a show from the walkout to the last bell.

“I don’t cry over spilt milk, I never have. I don’t moan, I move on. Everyone’s plan is to take it out of the judges’ hands, I am just going to go in and put on a great fight. I love Manchester – Manchester always comes out. I’m bringing the pain; it’s going to be sick. I just want to give the fans what they want, and they want to see war. Joseph is going to try to ride the storm early, and come on in the second half, but there is nowhere to hide.”

Parker vs. Chisora 2 tops a huge night of action in Manchester, ‘Little Lever’s Meat Cleaver’ Jack Cullen (20-2-1, 9 KOs) returns to the scene of his Fight of the Year contender with Felix Cash back in 2019 as he clashes with Kevin Lele Sadjo (16-0, 14 KOs) for the vacant EBU European Super-Middleweight crown following his win over Avni Yildirim in July, Manchester Super-Featherweight contender Zelfa Barrett (26-1, 16 KOs) hopes to make it three wins from three fights in 2021 as he meets Australia’s Bruno ‘The Terminator’ Tarimo (26-2-2, 5 KOs) in an Eliminator for the IBF World Title, undefeated New Malden Super-Middleweight talent Lerrone Richards (15-0, 3 KOs) looks to build on his impressive EBU European Title win against Giovanni De Carolis in May when he takes on unbeaten IBO 168lbs World Champion Carlos Gongora (20-0, 15 KOs), Croatian Heavyweight knockout artist Alen ‘The Savage’ Babic (9-0, 9 KOs) looks to make it ten knockouts from ten fights, New Zealand Cruiserweight David Nyika (1-0, 1 KO) fights in the UK for the first time against Anthony Carpin (5-6-2, 2 KOs), Derby Super-Lightweight prospect Sandy Ryan (2-0, 1 KO) is out to impress against Maria Soledad Caprialo (7-13-4) after her vicious body shot knockout win over Aleksandra Vujovic in Italy, unbeaten Cruiserweight Jordan ‘Troublesome’ Thompson (11-0, 9 KOs) meets Clement Oppenot (5-1, 3 KOs) over six rounds, former Team GB standout Cyrus Pattinson (2-0, 1 KO) takes on Evgenii Vazem (9-21, 4 KOs) over six rounds at Welterweight and Anthony Crolla-trained Lightweight Rhiannon Dixon (3-0) fights Paola Pamela Benavidez (8-5-3) over six rounds.

Limited remaining tickets are available to purchase via StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk)

Las Vegas – UFC^® returns to Houston with a thrilling middleweight championship rematch that will see champion Israel Adesanya run it back with No. 1 contender Robert Whittaker.

UFC^® 271: ADESANYA vs. WHITTAKER 2 will take place Saturday, Feb. 12 at Toyota Center in Houston. All bouts will be simulcast on ESPN+ in English and Spanish beginning at 6:15 p.m. ET/3:15 p.m. PT with the ESPN+ and UFC Fight Pass prelims. The prelims will continue exclusively on ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT followed by the ESPN+ Pay-Per-View main card that will kick off at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

UFC^® 271: ADESANYA vs. WHITTAKER 2 tickets will go on sale Friday, Dec. 17 at 10 a.m. CT and are available for purchase at toyotacenter.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. UFC Fight Club^® members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets Wednesday, Dec. 15 at 10 a.m. CT via the website www.ufcfightclub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thursday, Dec. 16 starting at 10 a.m. CT. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

Adesanya (22-1, fighting out of Auckland, New Zealand) dethroned Whittaker in front of the largest live audience in UFC history at UFC 243 in 2019. Since then, he has delivered memorable title defenses against Marvin Vettori, Paulo Costa and Yoel Romero. Adesanya now aims to stop Whittaker again to keep his spot atop the middleweight division and continue building his legacy as one of the most dominant UFC champions.

Former champion Whittaker (23-5, fighting out of Sydney, Australia) is gunning to even the score with heated rival Adesanya. Throughout his UFC run, The Ultimate Fighter: The Smashes winner secured spectacular victories over Jared Cannonier, Derek Brunson and Yoel Romero (twice). Whittaker now has his sights set on reclaiming his middleweight championship by becoming the first fighter to finish Adesanya in MMA.

Additional bouts on the card include:

• Kyler Phillips (9-2, fighting out of Glendale, Ariz.) squares off with Marcelo Rojo (16-8, fighting out of Tijuana, Mexico by way of Rio Cuarto, Cordoba, Argentina) in an exciting bantamweight bout
• Women’s MMA pioneer and No. 12 ranked contender Roxanne Modafferi (25-20, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) battles undefeated No. 15 Casey O’Neill (8-0, fighting out of Gold Coast, Australia)
• No. 4 ranked flyweight contender Alex Perez (24-6, fighting out of Lemoore, Calif.) battles No. 9 Matt Schnell (15-6, fighting out of Shreveport, La.)
• Vinc Pichel (14-2, fighting out of Englewood, Colo. by way of Simi Valley, Calif.) looks to hand Mark O. Madsen (11-0, fighting out of Maribo, Denmark by way of Nykøbing Falster, Denmark) his first loss in an intriguing lightweight contest
• Dana White’s Contender Series signee Carlos Ulberg (5-1, fighting out of Auckland, New Zealand) hopes to secure another memorable KO when he takes on Fabio Cherant (7-3, fighting out of Wrentham, Mass.) at light heavyweight
• The Ultimate Fighter season three veteran Ed Herman (27-15 1NC, fighting out of Vancouver, Wash.) meets Maxim Grishin (31-9-2, fighting out of Grozny, Chechen Republic, Russia) in a light heavyweight clash
• Mana Martinez (9-2, fighting out of Houston, Texas) looks to impress in front of his hometown crowd when he takes on Ronnie Lawrence (7-1, fighting out of Sunrise, Fla.) at bantamweight
• Battle-tested lightweights collide when Alexander Hernandez (13-4, fighting out of San Antonio, Texas) locks horns with Renato Moicano (15-4-1, fighting out of Brasilia, Brazil)
• Dana White’s Contender Series contract winner AJ Dobson (6-0 1NC, fighting out of Columbus, Ohio) faces Jacob Malkoun (5-1, fighting out of Sydney, Australia) at middleweight
• Douglas Silva (27-4 1NC, fighting out of Castanhal, Para, Brazil) looks to continue his momentum at bantamweight when he meets Sergey Morozov (17-4, fighting out of Aktobe, Kazakhstan)
• Orion Cosce (7-1, fighting out of Arcata, Calif.) goes for his first UFC win when he takes on Blood Diamond (3-0, fighting out of Auckland, New Zealand) at welterweight

Visit the UFC.com for information and content to support your UFC coverage. Please click here to apply for the event.

###

About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 625 million fans and 178 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to nearly 900 million TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 75 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS^®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is owned by global sports and entertainment company Endeavor, and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram and TikTok: @UFC.

About Toyota Center

Since opening in October 2003, Toyota Center has set a new standard for sports and entertainment, becoming one of the premier live entertainment venues in the nation. Laid over the span of six city blocks, Toyota Center is home to the NBA’s Houston Rockets. Toyota Center also plays host to the nation’s top concerts and touring shows. The arena’s playing surface is set nearly 32-feet below street level giving Toyota Center the largest lower level of any arena in the nation. Coupled with the exclusive Lexus Lounge, trendy Golden Nugget Club, Red and White Bistro’s superior food and service, Toyota Center offers something for everyone making it the hottest spot for sports and entertainment in Houston. For more information, visit ToyotaCenter.com.

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).

About ESPN

ESPN, the world’s leading sports entertainment brand, features eight U.S. television networks, direct-to-consumer ESPN+, ESPN Radio, ESPN.com, endeavors on every continent around the world, and more.  ESPN is 80 percent owned by ABC, Inc. (an indirect subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company) and 20 percent by Hearst.

ORANGE, CA (December 14, 2021) – Undefeated lightweight, Francisco Armenta (12-0, 4 KOs), of Orange, California, by way of Sinaloa, Mexico, is looking to make a statement in the lightweight division this Friday, December 17th, as he takes on fellow undefeated prospect, Ruben “Ace” Torres (16-0, 13 KOs).

Torres vs. Armenta, an 8-round bout, will serve as the co-main event to Saul “The Beast” Sanchez (17-1, 10 KOs) vs. Jose “Hollywood” Estrella (23-17-1, 16 KOs), who will be fighting in the 10-round main event. The event titled, Path to Glory, will take place at the DoubleTree Hotel in Ontario, California, promoted by Thompson Boxing Promotions.

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

Here is what Armenta had to say about his upcoming fight with Torres, training camp and more.

On his upcoming fight with Ruben Torres.

“This is a huge opportunity for me. Ruben Torres has a lot of talent but so do I and I’m going to show everyone that I’m the fighter to be looking at. I believe I have the style to be victorious against Torres and the world will see my talent this Friday. I’m going to make this fight a war.”

On what a win will do for his career.

“Winning this fight puts me where Ruben Torres is now. Torres is being mentioned amongst the best emerging prospects in the country and defeating him would put me on the level. Basically, this fight is everything I have worked for, and I don’t want all my hard work to go to waste. The time is now for me to take my career to new heights.”

On his recent training camp.

“Camp has been very intense and focused. I am coming to bring it, and I know what he has to offer, but he will have to contend with me being in-shape for all eight-rounds. I am taking this fight very seriously as I’ve been out of the ring for almost two years. I have invested into this camp with a lot of dedication and hard work. All the sparring and road work is finally done and I’m ready for battle.”

On Fighting in Southern California on a Thompson Boxing Promotions card.

“I am glad to have made my U.S. debut with Thompson Boxing Promotions, they have treated me well and I am very excited to let the world see my skills. I’ve fought all my other fights in Mexico so its going to be fun to return to the States to fight Torres. Thompson Boxing Promotions is giving me a platform to display my talents and I am very excited.”

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

Please check our Facebook Page, watch our YouTube channel on Thompson Boxing TV and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @ThompsonBoxing.
TB’s new mobile app is now available for download on Google Play (Android) and Apple’s App Store (iPhone).

NEW YORK – December 14, 2021 – Three-time NBA All-Star Deron Williams and legendary NFL running back Frank Gore are nearing their professional boxing debuts as the two stars from opposite sports put the finishing touches on their first ever training camps. The two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Williams and the NFL’s third all-time leading rusher Gore collide in a must-watch four-round heavyweight professional boxing match on Saturday, December 18 on the undercard of Jake Paul vs. Tyron Woodley II live on SHOWTIME PPV on Saturday, December 18 at AMALIE Arena in Tampa, Fla.

Both men are eager to impress in their pro boxing debuts, and have cut no corners in their preparations for the fight. Williams has prepared at the gym he co-owns alongside trainer Sayif Saud at Fortis MMA in Dallas, Texas while the Miami native Gore is training under Javiel Centeno at Centeno’s Sweatbox Boxing Gym in Davie, Fla.

Here is what Williams and Gore had to say at their respective gyms.

Deron Williams

On his combat sports background…

“I don’t have any pro fights, per say, but combat sports has been a part of my life since I was growing up. I was a wrestler here in Texas and I actually won States twice as an eight-year-old and a 12-year-old. I would have continued competing but I had to make a choice between basketball and wrestling. I feel like I made the right choice.”

On training in boxing and MMA…

“I’ve always been drawn to boxing. I’ve always been drawn to MMA and been a UFC fan for as long as I can remember. I started training while I was still playing in the NBA and became part owner of Fortis MMA in 2015. I’ve been training here ever since.”

On how this fight came to be…

“I got a call about doing a boxing match and I always wanted to do a fight. At least once in my lifetime. I wanted to check that off the bucket list and so here I am.”

On Frank Gore…

“Frank was a beast on the football field. I know he’s going to be tough. I know he’s going to be in shape. He’s always been regarded as a really hard worker in his sport. He’s taken the most snaps of any rusher in the NFL which is a tremendous feat in itself. I know he’s been training and putting in the work. I think it’s going to be a fun fight to watch.”

On a career in combat sports…

“I’m just focused on this one fight. Especially in fighting, I don’t think you can look past your opponent. I’m focused on Frank. This was a box I wanted to check off and I’m getting to do that. Whatever else happens, we’ll see after that.”

Frank Gore

Why boxing…

“I’ve been around it for so long, I love competing. I want to give it a shot. I’ll see how this fight goes. If I want to do it again, I know I can. If I want to just do it one time and it’s over after that, it’ll be something I wanted to do and I did.”

On training camp…

“I’m taking this seriously. I want to look good, and of course, I want to win. When the fight is over on Saturday night, I want people to say, ‘Man, whatever you put your mind into, you can do it.’ This is no joke; a lot of people would be scared to get in the ring and go one-on-one with another guy.

“I’ve been working my behind off. I respect my opponent. This sport is really tough, man. I take my hat off to all boxers out there. It’s not easy… A lot of people don’t understand what boxing takes. Training is no joke. In football you got 10 other guys. In football you can hide behind other guys. In basketball you can hide. In this sport, you can’t.

“I come and work out. I do what my coaches tell me. I give it 110%. I have to because it’s just me in the ring. I can’t hide behind my linemen. I can’t hide behind my receivers. I have to be ready because it’s just me and another man on the other side.”

On his sons playing football…

“I go to see my son play at Southern Miss and see my stepson play at Wisconsin. My 15-year-old plays high school football too. I love spending time with them. I always tell them, just do the right thing. Listen to your coach and train hard. If you do that, whatever God has planned for you, it’ll come your way.”

In regards to his football career…

“Training camp started and I didn’t get a call. I’m being real man, that was garbage. I’m in the best shape I’ve ever been in. The most ripped I’ve ever been. Hopefully San Francisco makes a run and my boys tell me to make a run with them.”

#        #        #

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.

TROIS-RIVIÈRES, Canada (December 14, 2021) – Canadian super welterweight Mikaël Zewski (35-2, 23 KOs) wanted a major challenge for his first professional boxing fight in his region of Mauricie and his wish will be granted. For the first appearance in his 11-year career, at a boxing event in his hometown, the Trois-Rivières boxer will face WBC # 9 contender and powerful slugger Serhii Bohachuck (20-1, 20 KOs), of Vinitza, Ukraine, in the 10-round main event.

Colisée Vidéotron in Trois-Rivières will host its very first professional boxing event on Friday, March 25, starting at 7 p.m. This event is presented by Mise-O-Jeu, and a Groupe Yvon Michel co-promotion with Probellum in collaboration with Deacon Sports and Entertainment Ltd.

Also featured will be the popular welterweight Sébastien Bouchard (19-2, 8 KOs) from Baie-Saint-Paul, charismatic welterweight Marie-Pier Houle (4-0-1, 2 KOs) from Cap-de-la-Madeleine, skillful heavyweight Alexis Barrière (4-0, 3 KOs), of St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, and several other boxers in important fights for the advancement of their careers.

For Mikaël, it is a dream come true: “I have been a professional since 2010 and since my very beginnings, I have wanted to box in front of my own people, my family and my friends. I know the challenge is important and that my opponent is dangerous, but I will be inspired and motivated like never before!” declared the sympathetic athlete.

“We are proud to present this international boxing gala in Trois-Rivières, which has become a reality thanks to the invaluable collaboration of Mark Weightman, president and CEO of the Trois-Rivières Lions. There is no doubt for us that Mikaël Zewski belongs among the world elite of his division, and he will have the opportunity to demonstrate it to everyone on March 25,” said Yvon Michel, President of GYM.

According to Mark Weightman, “The Videotron Coliseum is an exceptional venue for presenting boxing events, and we look forward to demonstrating it at this historic event.”

Tickets go on sale this Saturday, December 18, starting at 10 a.m. on ticketmaster.ca. Prestigious seat reservations can also be made by calling (819) 519-1634. Tickets are available starting at $ 25.

Full details about this historic event will be unveiled in the coming weeks.

GroupeYM #Probellum #ZewskiBohachuk

Source: Groupe Yvon Michel

ABOUT THE YVON MICHEL GROUP (GYM): Groupe Yvon Michel is a professional boxing promotion organization, founded in 2004 by Yvon Michel, Alexandra Croft and Bernard Barré, all still active within the company, which is the most prolific organization in the history of professional boxing in Canada. Since its founding GYM has organized 160 events in Quebec, participated in 37 international galas outside of Quebec. Seven boxers became world champions: Joachim Alcine, Jean Pascal, Adonis Stevenson, Artur Beterbiev, Eleider Alvarez, Marie-Eve Dicaire and Oscar Rivas. Seventeen of the organization’s boxers have fought in 49 world championship bouts with an excellent record of 25 wins, 22 losses and 2 draws. During this period major American television networks were more active than ever in coming to Quebec to broadcast GYM’s most important events. On 35 occasions major American networks presented a GYM event, an exceptional showcase of Quebec knowledge including HBO (8), Showtime (7), ESPN2 (10), Wealth TV (4), Spike TV (2), ESPN (2), CBS (1) and NBC Sports (1).

GLASGOW (Dec. 14, 2021) — BOXXER and Top Rank have announced ticket on-sale details for the highly charged Scotland-England showdown between Undisputed Junior Welterweight Champion Josh “The Tartan Tornado” Taylor and WBO No. 1 contender Jack “El Gato” Catterall on Saturday, Feb. 26 at the OVO Hydro in Glasgow.

Presale tickets go on sale Wednesday, Dec. 15 at 12 p.m. GMT, followed by the public on-sale Friday, Dec. 17 at 12 p.m. GMT. Tickets can be purchased via Ticketmaster.com or Boxxer.com/tickets.

Undefeated Edinburgh star Taylor (18-0, 13 KOs) defeated the previously unbeaten Jose Ramirez in May to unify the WBO, WBA, WBC and IBF World titles, becoming the first British boxer in the four-belt era to achieve the remarkable feat.

He now makes the historic first defense of all four belts against the dangerous and undefeated Chorley contender Catterall (26-0, 13 KOs), a former British and WBO Intercontinental Champion who is intent on dethroning Taylor and ending his reign.

Full undercard details will be announced shortly.

ORANGE, CA (December 13, 2021) – Lightweight prospect, Ruben “Ace” Torres (16-0, 13 KOs), is set to fight fellow undefeated foe, Francisco Armenta (12-0, 4 KOs), of Orange, California, by way of Sinaloa, Mexico, in an eight-round co-main event this Friday, December 17th. The event titled, Path to Glory, will be taking place at DoubleTree Hotel in Ontario, California, promoted by Thompson Boxing Promotions.

In the 10-round main event, Saul “The Beast” Sanchez (17-1, 10 KOs), will battle Jose “Hollywood” Estrella (23-17-1, 16 KOs). 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.

Here is what Torres had to say about his matchup with Armenta, training camp, and more.

On his upcoming fight with Francisco Armenta.

“I am very excited about this fight as this is my second undefeated fighter I have faced, previously I fought George Acosta, who is a good fighter, and he brought the best out of me. For me, the bigger the challenge the bigger the performance, I have been working hard with my coach Danny Zamora, and now more than ever, I am ready to perform come fight night. This will be a battle of two undefeated warriors and I plan to come out on top.”

On what a win will do for his career.

“A win puts me in the mix to compete for a world title in one of the most exciting weight classes in all of boxing as we will have a chance to compete against the very best fighters in the world, and on the biggest stages. I am ready for all challenges coming my way.”

On his recent training camp.

“This camp has been good, I feel great ending the year on a strong note and with the thoughts of being able to hopefully get back into the ring, in early 2022. Every camp seems to get better as I evolve as a fighter. I’m constantly learning new things about myself and my abilities. My goal is to constantly improve and bring fans exciting fights.”

On fighting in So-Cal on another Thompson Boxing Promotions card.

“Thompson Boxing Promotions has always taken great care of me and being that I am based out of the L.A. area, it is great that they focus on the L.A. market since that is where all my friends and family live. This will be like a holiday celebration a week before more people celebrate the holidays. I’m grateful that they have kept me busy during the pandemic. I’m going to give back by performing at my highest level.”

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

Please check our Facebook Page, watch our YouTube channel on Thompson Boxing TV and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @ThompsonBoxing.
TB’s new mobile app is now available for download on Google Play (Android) and Apple’s App Store (iPhone). Fight Hub TV is a proud Media Partner with Thompson Boxing shows and a great resource for all things Boxing.

NEW YORK – December 13, 2021 – ShoBox: The New Generation will kick off the 2022 boxing calendar with a tripleheader featuring six undefeated fighters Friday, January 7 at 10 p.m. ET/PT from Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Fla.

The three undefeated matchups include fighters with a combined record of 80-0 and 57 knockouts and marks the first time ShoBox has featured a tripleheader in which all six fighters enter fight night without a loss in the 20-plus year history of the prospect series. The event is also the first time ShoBox will take place in Orlando as the Dominican Republic’s Luis Nunez (15-0, 11 KOs), who made his ShoBox debut in September, battles Carlos Arrieta (14-0, 8 KOs) of Puerto Rico in a 10-round lightweight main event.

The co-feature pits hard-hitting Starling Castillo (16-0, 12 KOs) against ShoBox returnee Otar Eranosyan (10-0, 6 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight bout. In the telecast opener, knockout artist Edwin De Los Santos (13-0, 12 KOs) battles William Foster III (12-0, 8 KOs) in an eight-round super featherweight fight. All six fighters have deep amateur pedigrees, highlighting their commitment to the sport.

There will be a new face on the ShoBox telecast as veteran combat sports reporter Brian Campbell will join former world champion Raul Marquez ringside as an expert analyst, while International Boxing Hall of Famer Barry Tompkins calls the blow-by-blow action. Fellow Hall of Famer Steve Farhood will remain a part of the broadcast team remotely.

The three-fight telecast is promoted by Sampson Boxing.

“We are excited to kick off our 21^st consecutive year in action with a prototypical ShoBox card that features six undefeated fighters facing the most difficult challenges of their young careers,” said Gordon Hall, executive producer for ShoBox: The New Generation. “We’re also excited to be adding the versatile combat sports reporter Brian Campbell to one of the best broadcast teams in boxing. Brian has shined in various roles during SHOWTIME assignments over the past few years and we’re looking forward to adding him to the team.”

Here is more on each of the three bouts:

Nunez vs. Arrieta – 10-Round Lightweight Main Event Bout

A decorated amateur in the Dominican Republic, Puerto Plata’s Luis “The Twist” Nunez started boxing at age eight and went on to win a number of national championships as a member of the Dominican national team, including gold in the 2016 Youth Championship. A fan-friendly pressure fighter with heavy hands, Nunez turned professional at 18, passing every test put in front of him in his native country. On his 22^nd birthday in September, Nunez made his United States debut, upsetting then-undefeated Jayvon Garnett on ShoBox. His unblemished resume also includes a unanimous decision over then 20-3-1 Eliezer Aquino and a fourth-round KO over then once-beaten Giovanni Gutierrez.

“Change begins at the end of your comfort zone, nothing is beyond your reach as long as you are willing to work hard for it,” said Nunez. “Returning to SHOWTIME, for me, is more than a privilege because I feel that every day I am closer to achieving my dream that everyone will be able to witness. I don’t know much about my opponent, but I am sure that on January 7 I will go out through the front door, God willing! Having one more victory in my career is like climbing the ladder to go to the big leagues, which is where I want to be.”

Like Nunez, the Puerto Rican Arrieta was an accomplished amateur in his native country winning several national tournaments. The 27-year-old turned pro in 2015 campaigning mostly in Puerto Rico through the first four years of his career. He made his stateside debut in 2020, scoring a first-round KO in Biloxi, Miss. Going by the ring moniker “The Chosen One”, Arrieta is facing a stiff step-up in competition in his ShoBox debut. His last time out, he won a six-round unanimous decision over Julio Buitrago.

“Training is going very well and I will be ready,” said Arrieta. “I know my opponent is very good and I know it’s going to be a great fight, but I will take the victory home because it is a great opportunity for me to shine and go up to the next level. It’s an opportunity that I will not pass up.”

Castillo vs. Eranosyan – Eight-Round Lightweight Bout

The 26-year-old Castillo scored an emphatic knockout in his U.S. debut in July, blasting out then unbeaten Miguel Contreras in the second round. A native of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Castillo turned pro in 2017 and has delivered knockout wins in four of his last five fights. Castillo scored a career-best victory in September, earning a unanimous decision over former title challenger Juan Carlos Burgos. Castillo was a highly successful amateur boxer in the Dominican Republic, fighting 460 times.

“I can’t wait to get back in the squared circle doing what I love and what I work very hard on,” said “El Poli” Castillo. “I’m so excited and honored to be put on a platform like ShoBox. We expect a very gutsy, action-packed fight, due to our fighting styles. They make for a great fight recipe. This victory will catapult me into the rankings and force the fans of boxing to start noticing me.”

Ranked No. 7 by the WBA at 130 pounds, Eranosyan was a highly decorated Georgian amateur with 290 total fights who has transitioned seamlessly into the paid ranks. The 28-year-old didn’t turn professional until August 2020 but has already fought 10 times. Now based in Miami Beach, Fla., “Pitbull” owns two notable fourth-round KOs over the 32-4 Juan Carlos Pena. Eranosyan made his ShoBox debut in September, defeating the highly regarded Alejandro Guerrero via unanimous decision in Broken Arrow, Okla. Eranosyan returns to his more familiar Florida, where he has fought each of his other fights professionally. 

“It’s a great honor for me to fight on SHOWTIME and to show the world once again that I am the best in my weight division,” said Eranosyan. “My opponent is a good, undefeated boxer. I’ve seen some of his fights and I am sure we will put on a spectacular fight for the fans. Just like all my other wins in my career, this win will bring me closer to a championship fight, to become an undisputed world champion.”

De Los Santos vs. Foster – Eight-Round Super Featherweight Bout

Edwin De Los Santos began boxing in his native Dominican Republic at the age of 12, and by age 14, he had won his first amateur tournament. He turned pro in 2018 and has competed exclusively in his native country. Packing one-punch power, De Los Santos has scored stoppages in his last seven fights. Among his most impressive performances is a first-round KO over then 8-2 Juan Alberto Garcia Perez and a unanimous decision over then 31-10 Francisco Contreras.  De Los Santos will make his United States debut on January 7.

“Thanks to my preparation and commitment, I promise to give my best and, above all, a great show, so that the public can enjoy it,” said the 22-year-old De Los Santos. “It is an unexplainable feeling being on SHOWTIME for my first time because it is a great opportunity that not many get to experience. My opponent is a good, undefeated boxer. I know it’ll be a war, but I work too hard to not get the victory. You won’t want to miss it.”

William Foster III, a native of New Haven, Conn., started boxing at four years old and started competing at age 10. He had an amateur record of 64-17, advancing to the Junior Olympic Nationals, the Golden Gloves Nationals (where he was a runner-up in 2014), and the PAL Nationals. De Los Santos will be the third undefeated opponent of Foster’s young career. He already owns two wins over then 10-0 fighters in Donald Smith and Sulaiman Segawa. The 28-year-old is the younger brother of 20-0 professional light heavyweight prospect Charles Foster.

“I’m very excited about fighting on SHOWTIME and hopefully this will open the door to more opportunities,” said Foster, nicknamed “The Silent Assassin”. “I know that my opponent is young and ambitious, but he’s making a big mistake by fighting me. He’s making a big mistake if he thinks that I’m like every other fighter.  It couldn’t be further from the truth. It’s going to be a very fun night for me. A victory will put me one step closer to my goal as a fighter which is to be the most dangerous fighter who has ever lived.”

The executive producer of ShoBox: The New Generation is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

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For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports

About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 85 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more. 

LAS VEGAS (December 13, 2021) – Undefeated Guatemalan star and WBA #1 ranked minimumweight contender, Maria “La Imparable” Santizo (9-0, 5 KOs), is looking to dethrone Seniesa “Super Bad” Estrada (21-0, 8 KOs) for her WBA Title in the co-feature attraction this Saturday December 18th, on the Gilberto Ramirez vs. Yunieski Gonzalez card. The 10-round bout, promoted by Golden Boy Promotions, will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN and takes place at the AT&T Center in San Antonio, TX.

Here is what Santizo had to say about recent training camp, her matchup with Estrada, and more.

On her recent training camp:
“I’m wrapping up the final days of training camp here in Las Vegas and I couldn’t ask for a better situation then what I’m experiencing right now. The sparring has been spectacular and the high elevation workouts have been fabulous. I feel strong and I’m going to be at my very best on Saturday.”

On her matchup with Estrada:
“To be honest with you, Estrada has never been in the ring with a fighter of my caliber. My record doesn’t show any high-level opponents but believe me, I’m a warrior with a lot of skills and determination. This will be the fight that the world will see what kind of athlete I am. Estrada is a great champion, but she’s in trouble, because I’m coming to dethrone her.

On fighting for her first world title:
“I’ve worked my whole life for this opportunity and I’m grateful for everyone who has helped me along the way. Coming from Guatemala, I take great pride representing my country men and women, and on Saturday night the first ever women’s world champion boxer will be crowned.

On fighting in 3-minutes rounds:
“Fighting in 3-minute rounds is crucial to the sport of women’s boxing. We deserve to fight at the same standards of the men, just like professional MMA. All women’s fights should be 3-minute rounds, especially if both fighters agree to it, as both Seniesa and myself have done for this fight. The fans want to see knockouts and I know fighting 3-minute rounds will accomplish that.”

On what a win will do for her career:
“A victory against Estrada will solidify me as one of the best female fighters in the world. In addition, a victory will bring a lot of attention to my country and hope to those struggling to make it in the sport of boxing. I want to inspire all my people and win this world title for them.

SAN ANTONIO, TX (December 13, 2021) – This past Saturday, Prince Ranch Boxing’s, Ricky “El Castigo” Medina, remained undefeated winning by unanimous decision with a dominant performance against Oscar Mojica (12-6, 1 KO), improving his record to (12-0, 6 KOs). The 8-round bout was promoted by TMB Promotions an took place at Nelson Wolff Stadium in San Antonio, Texas.

From the opening round, Medina controlled the action with a superior jab and high ring IQ. Mojica, who is known for giving his opponents a tough fight, had no answer to the skill set Medina bought to the ring. Medina dominated the bout till the final bell scoring a unanimous decision to remain undefeated. Scorecards read 80-72 twice and 79-73.

“I was well prepared going into the fight and it showed in my performance” said Medina, who is one of the next up and coming boxers fighting out of San Antonio. “I knew Mojica was going to be a tough challenge, so I took my training to the next level. I wanted to finish off the year with a great performance and I accomplished that goal. It was nice to see all my family and friends show up and I’m looking forward to a successful 2022.”

“Medina has developed into a great prospect and he’s on his way to a big fight,” said Greg Hannely, president of Prince Ranch Boxing, who manages Medina. “Rick Morones and I have plans to get him ranked with one of the sanctioning organizations in 2022. He had a tremendous amateur career, and it has transcended into the professional ranks. We have big plans for him in the upcoming year.”

“Medina showed me a lot in this fight,” said promoter Rick Morones, of TMB Promotions. “Mojica has never been dominated like that and that’s a testament to the hard work Medina and his team have put in. I want to thank all the people who helped me put on this event and we plan to have more shows in San Antonio next year.”

New York (December 13, 2021)–Split-T Management is proud to announce the signing of undefeated, power-punching lightweight prospect Luis Acosta.

Acosta, 25 years-old of Houston, Texas has a professional record of 12-0 with 11 knockouts.

“Signing with Split-T Management is an amazing feeling. I have been trying to get noticed for a long time, but nobody was paying attention to me. Fortunately I was able to link up with Brendan (Segalas) who took a look at me and brought me the attention of Mr. (David) McWater. We were able to meet with him at my family’s restaurant, Titas Tacos, and knew immediately that Split-T was the place for us,” Said Acosta

Acosta began boxing at the age of 16, following in the footsteps of his father, Jose, and uncle, Mario, who were both professional boxers. His father, who now trains Luis, was 2-2 as a professional, while his uncle was 1-0.

“When I was a young kid, I did not like going to the gym. Then I started watching some boxing videos, and nine months later, we were building a gym in our backyard!”

This passion led to an amateur career that saw Luis go 57-8 and winning both the Title and Ringside Tournaments.

Acosta is a come-forward fighter, who is aggressive without getting hit, and possesses tremendous physical strength.

“In 2022, all of the opportunities will come to me. I am fighting for my family and I want to impress anyone who watches me.”

In addition, Acosta is a graduate of the University of Houston with a degree in Exercise Science and Kinesiology and has an entrepreneurial spirit honed by working many hours in his family’s restaurant, which is a local landmark in Humble, Texas.

“I would like to open up a gym – not just a boxing gym – but for everyone to get into shape,” said Acosta. “Also open up another restaurant.”

MINNEAPOLIS (December 13, 2021) – Rising super lightweight contenders Richardson Hitchins and Malik Hawkins will square off in a 10-round showdown that headlines FS1 PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, December 18 from The Armory in Minneapolis.

The FS1 telecast begins at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT and also features unbeaten Dominican Olympian Héctor Luis García dueling Mexico’s Isaac Avelar in an eight-round super featherweight bout and undefeated light heavyweight prospect Suray Mahmutovic taking on fellow unbeaten Pachino Hill.

Following the action on FS1, FOX PBC Fight Night will be headlined by Cuban sensation and unbeaten WBA Super Middleweight Champion David Morrell Jr. defending his title in his adopted hometown when he faces 168-pound contender Alantez Fox. The broadcast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features exciting rising unbeaten prospect José Valenzuela taking on lightweight contender Austin Dulay in the 10-round co-main event, plus unbeaten super lightweight contender Alberto Puello dueling Minneapolis-native VeShawn Owens in a 10-round attraction.

Tickets for the event are on sale now and can be purchased through The Armory at http://ArmoryMN.com/ and through Ticketmaster.

A native of Brooklyn, Hitchins (12-0, 5 KOs) turned pro in 2017 after representing Haiti at the 2016 Olympics and signed on with Mayweather Promotions. The 24-year-old has flashed impressive skills as he’s amassed an unbeaten record in the pro ranks, which is the product of his extensive amateur career. In his last outing, Hitchins scored a career-best victory, as he earned a decision over former world champion Argenis Mendez. Hitchins has increased his competition in winning 10-round decisions in his last three fights.

Another rising prospect in the Mayweather Promotions stable, Hawkins (18-1, 11 KOs) fights out of Baltimore, Maryland and is trained by Gervonta Davis’ coach Calvin Ford. The 25-year-old most recently dropped an October 2020 contest against hard-hitting contender Subriel Matias. Hawkins owns a victory over then unbeaten Darwin Price via fifth-round TKO, which he picked up during a five-win 2019 campaign that also saw him knockout tough contender All Rivera in the first round.

A native of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, García (13-0, 10 KOs) represented his home country at the 2016 Olympic Games. The 30-year-old owns a decision victory over previously unbeaten Anvar Yunusovin 2019, and most recently stopped Miguel Moreno in four rounds in July. He will take on the 24-year-old Avelar (16-3, 10 KOs), who has fought professionally since 2015. The Aguascalientes, Mexico-native has gone toe-to-toe with unified champion Stephen Fulton Jr. and top contender Eduardo Ramirez.

Mahmutovic (3-0, 3 KOs) began his pro career with three-straight knockout victories before he makes his U.S. debut as a pro on December 18. The 23-year-old was born in San Francisco and now resides in Daly City, California. Mahmutovic picked up all of his knockout victories in 2021, scoring wins in April, May and July. He squares off against Davenport, Iowa’s Hill (6-0, 5 KOs) in a battle of unbeatens. The 24-year-old Hill debuted in February 2020, with three-straight stoppage victories, having most recently defeated Brandt Cooper in August.

The non-televised undercard lineup will see super middleweight contender Anthony Sims Jr. (21-1, 19 KOs) in a six-round bout against Manny Woods (17-14-1, 6 KOs) and lightweight prospect Breeon Carothers (1-0, 1 KO) facing Deljerro Revello (0-2) in a four-round fight. Rounding out the action is unbeaten Mayweather Promotions fighter Adrian Benton in a six-round lightweight duel versus Raymond Chacon.

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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.

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 @WarriorsBoxingProm, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes

LOS ANGELES – BELLATOR MMA Heavyweight World Champion Ryan Bader (28-7, 1 NC) returns to the division following his impressive run in the BELLATOR Light Heavyweight World Grand Prix and will now meet interim heavyweight kingpin Valentin Moldavsky (11-1) to headline BELLATOR MMA 273: Bader vs. Moldavsky. The long-awaited title unification bout takes place on Saturday, Jan. 29 at the Footprint Center, home of the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury.

In addition, former bantamweight world champion Darrion Caldwell (14-5) returns to action against the winner of Ultimate Fighter: Latin America 2, Enrique Barzola (16-5-2), who makes his BELLATOR debut.

The main card will air live on SHOWTIME beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT, while the preliminary card begins at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and airs on the BELLATOR and SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channels, as well as Pluto TV.

Tickets for BELLATOR MMA 273: Bader vs. Moldavsky go on sale Thursday, Dec. 16 and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com and Bellator.com. A special presale will be taking place the day prior.

A former two-division champion, Ryan Bader has had nothing but high-profile bouts since signing with BELLATOR MMA in 2017, defeating Fedor Emelianenko, King Mo, Matt Mitrione, Linton Vassell, Lyoto Machida, Phil Davis and has gone toe-to-toe with Vadim Nemkov, Corey Anderson and Cheick Kongo. A winner in eight of his last 11 bouts, Arizona State University’s “Darth” Bader will once again have a partisan crowd in attendance when he meets Valentin Moldavksy at the Footprint Center in Phoenix. Making his return to the heavyweight division for the first time since 2019, Bader’s last title defense came against the aforementioned Kongo, a bout Bader was controlling until an accidental eye poke prematurely ended the contest.

The winner of the first-ever interim title in BELLATOR history, Valentin Moldavsky became Bader’s mandatory challenger following a dominant win over Tim Johnson at BELLATOR 261. Training under the tutelage of heavyweight legend Fedor Emelianenko, Moldavskyhas begun carving out his own legacy, accruing a perfect 6-0 record within the confines of the BELLATOR cage. A multi-time European Sambo champion, Moldavsky has defeated top heavyweight contenders such as Johnson, Javy Ayala, Linton Vassell, and Roy Nelson on his climb to the top. Born in Ukraine, the 30-year-old looks to join teammate Vadim Nemkov and become the undisputed champion of the heavyweight division on January 29.

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BELLATOR MMA 273: BADER VS. MOLDAVSKY MAIN CARD:

Saturday, Jan. 29 – live on SHOWTIME

10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT

Heavyweight World Title Main Event: #C-Ryan Bader (28-7, 1 NC) vs. #IC-Valentin Moldavsky (11-1)

Bantamweight Bout: Darrion Caldwell (14-5) vs. Enrique Barzola (16-5-2)

PRELIMINARY CARD: 

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

7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT 

*Card subject to change.

Please visit Bellator.com for additional information.

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About BELLATOR

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

About SHOWTIME

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

Salita Promotions proudly announces the signing of Grand Rapids, Michigan-based amateur-boxing star and future professional middleweight champion Joseph “Sug” Hicks Jr., to a promotional contract.

After getting off to a relatively late start at age 19, the naturally gifted Hicks quickly fought his way to being named Captain of Team USA’s international amateur-boxing squad. He was also a National Golden Gloves Champion in 2019; a three-time Eastern Elite Qualifiers Champion (2017, 2018, 2019); and a five-time Michigan Golden Gloves Champion (2013, 2015, 2017, 2018 and 2019) in his distinguished 100-bout amateur career.

Despite his considerable resume, Hicks reveals he’s decided to venture over to the professional side of the sport after feeling cheated of his dream of fighting for the USA Olympic Boxing Team by the pandemic.

Signing with Salita, he says, started with a tough sparring session in Detroit with one of the promoter’s other fighters.

“We were sparring with Marlon Harrington,” explained Hicks. “Marlon is a really good fighter. After I finished sparring him, I got a call from Marlon’s coach that his promoter, Dmitriy Salita, wanted to talk to me. Once I sat down with him, I liked everything he said. I can tell a good person when I meet him. He’s genuine and honest. I called my manager David McWater and told him I wanted to go with Salita. So, here we are, ready to get started.”

Family is vitally important to the 28-year-old Hicks, who cites his late father, Joseph “Sug” Hicks Sr., as the reason he started boxing. “My father loved it,” he recalled, “being at the gym made me feel close to him when he passed. He was a big fan. I remember when I was younger, he would put gloves me and tell people I was going to be his champ someday. The reason I chose the nickname ‘Sug’ is it was my father’s nickname. When I get in the ring, once the bell rings, I feel like he takes over.”

Hicks also has a five-year old daughter, Ariel, with his wife, Zoe Hicks (who is also an elite amateur boxer and is currently ranked #5 in the USA at 119 lbs).

Clever, quick-fisted boxer, well-known for his light-speed reflexes, Hicks says he loves to use his boxing skills in the ring, but the power in his right hand means he can also sit down on his punches when necessary.

So advanced are his considerable skills and so confident is his team that, according to Hicks, they have all agreed he will make his professional debut under the Salita banner early next year, starting with six-round bouts, instead of the customary four rounds.

“I want to get in as many fights as possible as quickly as possible, starting out with six rounders,” he explained. “We will debut in a six-rounder and then go right to eight after three or four fights. I’ve already fought overseas tournaments with no headgear. It’s no big deal. I always thought I had a pro style. I don’t think it’ll be a big adjustment. Especially with six rounds to work with, to set up some things up.”

Promoter Salita says he’s excited to be adding yet another outstanding Michigan-based talent to his formidable stable of top-level fighters.

“Joseph Hicks Jr., is an important part of the state’s next generation of boxing stars,” said Salita. “I’m happy to be adding him to the Salita Promotions team and looking forward to working with him and his manager, David McWater, with whom I’ve always had a great working relationship.”

Fighting out of Grand Rapids post-Floyd Mayweather can mean instant comparisons to the retired 50-0 superstar, but Hicks says he gets a great deal of support from another fighting alumnus of the city.

“There are two Grand Rapids boxers I look up to. One is Peter Quillen and the other being Floyd Mayweather, of course. Peter Quillen and I speak often. He tells me to continue to do me and make sure I stick with a good team that loves me and believes in me. He tells me life-motivational things. He tells me he’s very excited to see what I do in the pros. He’s one of the guys who know where I came from and where I am. He actually saw me get everything on my own the hard way with no handouts and he tells me he admires that.”

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About Salita Promotions

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

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