NEW YORK (Dec. 7, 2021) — Vasiliy “Loma” Lomachenko, the former three-weight world champion, is determined to return to the top of the lightweight heap. A former unified lightweight champion, Lomachenko fights former world champion Richard “RC” Commey in a 12-round main event at Madison Square Garden this Saturday Dec. 11 live on ESPN & ESPN Deportes (simulcast on ESPN+).

Lomachenko (15-2, 11 KOs) last fought in June, knocking out Masayoshi Nakatani in nine rounds. George Kambosos Jr. recently staked his claim as the division’s top dog with last month’s split decision over Teofimo Lopez, who toppled Lomachenko by unanimous decision in October 2020.

Kambosos’ win shook up the lightweight picture, and Lomachenko aims to make a bold statement Saturday evening.

Lomachenko said, “Richard Commey has big power, reach and experience. This is an interesting challenge for me, and I know it’s a fight the fans are excited to watch.

“I am 100 percent healthy and ready for Saturday night. I can’t wait. Madison Square Garden is like a second home for me. So many great moments in my career have taken place at Madison Square Garden. I won the lightweight title against Jorge Linares in that arena, so returning there brings back many great memories.

“I’m not going to say if I am the number one lightweight. That is a question for the fans. I always want to show my skills in the ring, and I hope the fans enjoy what I do.

“We can discuss my future after Saturday night. Of course, Kambosos is a fight I would like. He is the new champion, and he had a great performance against Lopez. But Commey deserves my full attention, and that is the task I am focused on now.

“My goals keep me motivated, one of which is to become undisputed champion. Commey is one of the division’s most dangerous fighters, and he is the one standing in my way.”

Lomachenko vs. Commey headlines a stacked quadruple-header airing after the Heisman Trophy Ceremony on ESPN & ESPN Deportes (simulcast on ESPN+) at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. Heavyweight knockout artist Jared “The Real Big Baby” Anderson (10-0, 10 KOs) returns in an eight-rounder against Ukraine’s Oleksandr Teslenko (17-1, 13 KOs), recent U.S. Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis (3-0, 2 KOs) takes on Mexican veteran Jose Zaragoza (8-3-1, 2 KOs) in a six-round lightweight tilt, and middleweight Nico Ali Walsh (2-0, 2 KOs) opens the telecast in a four-rounder versus Reyes Sanchez (6-0, 2 KOs).

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with DiBella Entertainment, tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting Ticketmaster.com or MSG.com.

In order to attend the event, all guests age 12 and older are required to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination (this means having at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine prior to attending). MSG’s comprehensive COVID-19 guidelines, including those regarding children under 12, can be found at https://www.msg.com/madison-square-garden/faqs.

About Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.
Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (MSG Entertainment) is a leader in live entertainment. The Company presents or hosts a broad array of events in its diverse collection of venues: New York’s Madison Square Garden, Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall and Beacon Theatre; and The Chicago Theatre. MSG Entertainment is also building a new state-of-the-art venue in Las Vegas, MSG Sphere at The Venetian. In addition, the Company features the original production – the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes – and through Boston Calling Events, produces the Boston Calling Music Festival. The Company’s two regional sports and entertainment networks, MSG Network and MSG+, deliver a wide range of live sports content and other programming. Also under the MSG Entertainment umbrella is Tao Group Hospitality, with entertainment dining and nightlife brands including: Tao, Marquee, Lavo, Beauty & Essex, Cathédrale, Hakkasan and Omnia. More information is available at www.msgentertainment.com.  

Caoimhin Agyarko is promising to make a statement when he takes on unbeaten American Noe Larios Jr for the vacant WBA International Middleweight Title this Saturday December 11 at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, live worldwide on DAZN.

The undefeated Belfast talent (9-0, 6 KOs), who is managed by Paul Ready and STN Sports, recently put pen to paper on a long-term promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing after impressing with a string of eye-catching knockout wins.

‘Black Thunder’ harbours dreams of becoming Ireland’s first ever black World Champion and the 25-year-old former Holy Trinity amateur standout is hoping to steal the show when he makes his Matchroom debut on the undercard of Conor Benn and Irish legend Katie Taylor.

“I’m super excited to fight for Matchroom and DAZN,” said Agyarko. “It’s a new platform for me and I feel like I’m starting over again. I can’t wait to put on a good performance. It’s a dream come true for me to box on the undercard of Katie Taylor. I think Katie is not only the greatest female boxer of all time but also one of the greatest athletes of all time. For me to make my Matchroom debut on her undercard means so much to me. 

“I’m on a five-fight knockout run and I want to keep that going. I want to improve from my last fight. I’ve made major adjustments in the gym. I’m a much happier fighter with his new team I’m with – Matchroom and Paul Ready and STN. I think you’ll see a different Caoimhin Agyarko on the night. I expect a lot from myself. 

“I always have bad intentions when I step through the ropes. When I get in there on the night something just clicks and it’s completely different. There’s a fire burning inside of me and it’s seek and destroy. I expect an explosive dominant performance and a very impressive stoppage. I feel like I’m boxing’s best kept secret but after December 11 everyone will know who Caoimhin Agyarko is.

“I expect him to be a tough opponent. I expect him to come and fight. He’s got this opportunity on a Matchroom card live on DAZN. He’s unbeaten, he’s never tasted defeat before, so I expect the best version of him on the night. He’ll come and try and make a statement. He’s 14-0, I haven’t been thrown in with a journeyman or someone that I’m meant to rollover. It’s a step up for me and I’m looking to make a statement.”

Agyarko vs. Larios Jr is part of a huge night of boxing in Liverpool, Welterweight star Conor Benn (19-0, 12 KOs) faces the toughest test of his career yet in the shape of former WBO Super-Lightweight World Champion Chris Algieri (25-3, 9 KOs), Irish sensation Katie Taylor (19-0, 6 KOs) defends her WBC, WBA, IBF, WBO and Ring Magazine Lightweight crowns against WBA Mandatory Challenger Firuza Sharipova (14-1, 8 KOs), ‘The Welsh Wizard’ Joe Cordina (13-0, 8 KOs) continues his push for Super-Featherweight World Title action in 2022 after scoring a sensational first round knockout win over the USA’s Joshuah Hernandez at Fight Camp in August, former European, British and Commonwealth Super-Lightweight Champion Robbie Davies Jr (21-3, 14 KOs) takes on Henry ‘Hank’ Lundy (31-9-1, 14 KOs) for the vacant WBA Continental Title, former Team GB star Calum French makes his professional debut at Super-Lightweight, Tokyo Olympian Peter McGrail (1-0) steps though the ropes for the second time as a pro against Engel Gomez (8-3-1, 4 KOs) over six rounds and is joined on the bill by his debutant brother Joe McGrail who fights over four rounds at Super-Bantamweight, Chatteris Featherweight Jordan Gill (26-1, 7 KOs) returns, while former professional footballer Paddy Lacey (1-0) has his third pro fight. 

Limited remaining tickets priced £40, £60, £80, £100 and £300 are available to purchase via StubHub.

Los Angeles, CA (December 7, 2021) Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions has announced that this Friday’s December 10 Hollywood Fight Nights event will be streamed live from the Quiet Cannon – Montebello Country Club. Working with BXNGTV.com, the live stream will commence at 7:00 p.m. PST at a cost of $19.99. Fans can purchase the live stream by clicking HERE.

Just announced today, world ranked Ali Akhmedov, (17-1, 13 KOs), will return to battle against Paul Valenzuela Jr, (26-10, 17 KOs) in a 10 round super middleweight battle. Akhmedov is promoted by GGG Promotions and is returning after a third-round knockout of David Zegarra on September 16, 2021.

Among the top Southern California rising stars appearing in separate bouts on the big card are Undefeated Junior Lightweight Adrian ‘Bam Bam’ Corona, (8-0, 2 KOs), of Rialto, CA, trained by the legendary Ben Lira in addition to Undefeated Lightweight Ruben ‘Gallito’ Islas, (2-0, 2 KOs), of Rialto, CA and Heavy-Handed Cruiserweight Marco Deckmann, (6-1, 5 KOs), of North Hollywood, CA who is guided by Hall of Fame Trainer, Freddie Roach

Highly Regarded Irish Amateur Standout, Junior Middleweight Callum Walsh of Riverside, CA, also trained by Freddie Roach, is making his much-anticipated professional debut. Undefeated Middleweight Eric Priest, (5-0), Pro Debuting Junior Lightweight Raul Chavez and Undefeated Featherweight Darilai Kuchmenou, (2-0) are also featured on the show.

More information on these bouts will be announced shortly.

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

About 360 Promotions:

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

Tom Loeffler and 360 Promotions have a broad global fan base with their events broadcast internationally on many different platforms.

About BXNG:

BXNG, is a dynamic new platform, linking local boxing events and emerging boxing prospects to a global audience. BXNG is the only platform focused directly on grassroots boxing, providing a new-aged stage for young fighters and local promoters. BXNG is a collaboration between Times Square Boxing Co. (New York, NY) and Vyre Network (Los Angeles, California). The collaboration is led by Adam Glenn (Times Square Boxing Co., CEO), along with partners Jason Scalzo (Scalzo Agency), Deon Elam (former boxer, contestant on “The Contender”), and Emil Czarnowski (Creative Director, Emil Filip X New York). BXNG is available for live streaming events at www.bxngtv.com or on Vyre Sports which is distributed through the Vyre Network through Amazon Fire Stick, Roku, Apple TV, iPhone, and Androids worldwide. 

Social Media

#HollywoodFightNights

Twitter

@360BoxingPromos

@TomLoeffler1

Facebook

@360BoxingPromos

@BXNGTV

Instagram

@360BoxingPromotions

@TomLoeffler1

@bxng.tv

Website

www.360Promotions.us

NEW YORK – December 6, 2021 – International superstar Jake “The Problem Child” Paul met with members of the media Monday to react to the news that he will now face former MMA world champion Tyron “The Chosen One” Woodley in a rematch of their August clash won by Paul after professional boxer and reality TV star Tommy Fury withdrew from their December 18 matchup due to a medical issue.

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).

Limited tickets remain and are available for purchase at https://bit.ly/PAULvsWOODLEY.

Below are quotes from Paul.

Jake Paul

“This is boxing, right? These types of things happen and it’s unfortunate. But it’s still going to be a massive fight just like it was last time. There are celebrities coming out left and right, some are even more excited to see me fight Tyron again. There are unanswered questions. That’s why the slogan for the fight is ‘Leave No Doubt’.

“I’ve gotten so much better in this training camp. I’m going to leave no doubt. I want to knock this guy out. We can move on from there but for the Fury’s, it’s an embarrassment. They said, ‘Oh, we’ll fight Jake with a broken rib. We’ll fight Jake with a chest infection. We’ll fight Jake with our arms tied behind our backs.’ And then when it actually came time to fight me, they pulled out.

“I got the news early Friday morning. My manager Nakisa had already spoken to Tyron, who was willing to step up. I believe later that evening or the next day we already had the contract signed from Tyron.

“I definitely respect Tyron for stepping in. He has balls. Tyron deserves a lot of credit for stepping in here. But I’ve made a ton of adjustments and he’s going to be fighting a different person December 18. I’m excited to show him and the world that.

“For me, the biggest thing to gain is proving people wrong from last time that thought he won, which is hilarious. Including the judge who made it a split-decision. Clearly, he was at some different fight. But now I’m going to back that up and go and knock this guy out. It just goes to show when I say any one, any time, any place, I mean it. Most fighters aren’t like that. For me to take whoever, wherever, whenever this early on in my career doing eight-round fights in my fifth fight, it’s unheard of. People just need to realize how serious I take this and how a lot of these other professional fighters don’t train as hard as me. They’re not as prepared as me.

“I’ve fought with a broken nose. I’ve fought sick. The list goes on. Last fight against Tyron, I had a hyperextended elbow. Didn’t say anything. Why? Because it doesn’t matter. I’m still going to go in there and find a way to win. That’s my motivation. Win.

“Tyron was the immediate go-to. He had been training and last fight was massive and had a ton of hype around it. There were unanswered questions so he was really the perfect person to throw in there.

“The story has been people making excuses every which way about my fights. I sort of don’t care what people have to say or if the respect is there. The bottom line is I have to go in and knock this guy out. That’s my job and I plan on doing so.

“The show must go on. I’ll fight anybody. Any one, any time, any place. I say that. Our team says that. I mean it. That’s the difference. What I say, I mean. I think a lot of these fighters say stuff just to say stuff. I have a responsibility to put on this fight for my fans. And every fighter on the undercard, imagine them getting a call that the fights cancelled. That sucks for everybody. I had to step up to the plate and I didn’t care who it was.

“I question everything about the Fury family. This kid is 22, right? You throw a 22-year-old in who has never accomplished anything himself. The only reason he’s anything is because of his brother. He’s had a silver spoon in his mouth his whole entire life. He’s gotten fame because of his brother. He’s never actually had a real opponent. He’s only ever been put in with people who were meant to lose. When you throw in that, you throw in the fact that you’re fighting me – I’m a scary guy to fight – the smack talk, the pressure, all of this, I think he cracked and tried to find a way out. I truly believe that in the deepest bones of my body.

“We changed up a lot of things in this training camp. A to Z. Last fight showed that I’m not just going in there and knocking Tyron out. There’s a lot of things to work on. I didn’t fight my best fight, for sure. It wasn’t even my best night. There was a lot of things to work on and we did that this camp. We went ten times harder. I’ve sparred almost 200 rounds since that fight. Changed up a lot of details. Diet. I stopped eating as many carbs. We brought in a nutritionist and he tweaked every little thing. I’m ten pounds lighter than I was going into the last fight so I’m feeling faster but also stronger at the same time.

“There’s been this rumor going around about a no knockout clause in my contracts, which someone started and everyone else ran with. People are like sheep. They just believe anything they read or see. That’s been a rumor that is completely untrue. I’d be in jail for rigging fights. It’s illegal. We just wanted to squash that rumor right away. From now on, we will be giving bonuses to my opponents if they can knock me out because we want to incentivize them and prove to the media and the world that all of these rumors aren’t true.

“The smart ones that did look into the rumor about drug testing saw that there is drug testing for this fight. The Florida State Athletic Commission is drug testing me and Tommy multiple times. There was never a denial on my end of doing any sort of drug test.

“Him pulling out of the fight does give me hesitation to fight him in the future. It really does. He didn’t show up to the press conference. Then he pulled out of the fight. He’s done a terrible job at promoting the fight that we had. He posted on social media once every other week. He’s not as hyped as everyone thought. I’m pissed off now. I don’t like them. I don’t like anything to do with that family. I don’t really see a reason to come back next year and give him that big of an opportunity and that big of a payday. It would almost be more fun and more satisfying for me to just leave him in the dust and make him fight until he’s 25-0, if he gets that far, to get the same payday that he was getting in his eighth fight.

“Amanda Serrano is great. She’s a superstar. We’re just excited to help her elevate her career to the next level because she’s putting in the work. She’s one of the greatest boxers ever, man or woman. Most Valuable Promotions is excited to work with her to give her the paydays that she deserves and to put her on that pedestal. That’s what she’s done so far. We’re eyeing a mega-fight between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano in 2022 so it’s exciting and we’re just looking to elevate this sport. Women’s boxing is a big passion of mine.”

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For more information on #PaulFury visit www.SHO.com/sports, follow on Instagram via @JakePaul, @TommyFury, @MostValuablePromotions and @ShowtimeBoxing, Twitter via @JakePaul, @TommyTntFury, @MostVpromotions and @ShowtimeBoxing, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.

LAS VEGAS (December 6, 2021) – As he marches towards a special boxing milestone, former World Boxing Organization Super Middleweight World Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (42-0, 28 KOs), now an undefeated world light heavyweight contender, will be fighting Yunieski “The Monster” Gonzalez on December 18th for his 43^rd consecutive victory.

Ramirez vs. Gonzalez  headlines a DAZN-streamed card, presented by Ramirez’ promoter Golden Boy Promotions, in a 12-round WBA Light Heavyweight Title Eliminator from San Antonio (TX) with the winner becoming the mandatory challenger for World Boxing Association Light Heavyweight World Champion Dmitry Bivol (18-0, 11 KOs), assuming the Kyrgyzstan-native gets past Umar Salamov (26-1, 19 KOs) on Dec. 11^th in Russia.

The 30-year-old Ramirez is fighting for membership in the exclusive 50-Club, winning his first 50 professional fights without a loss or draw. Ramirez’ idol and fellow Mexican, Julio Cesar Chavez, holds the record in that category by winning his first 87, his first blemish coming in 1993 in a 12-round majority draw with the great Pernell Whitaker in their WBC World welterweight title fight.

 _________________________________________________________________

BOXING’S 50-0 CLUB

1.   Julio “J.C. Cesar Chavez            87 (13 KOs)  1980-1993    México

2.   Willie “Wil ‘O The Wisp” Pep      62 (23 KOs)  1940-1943    USA

3.   Wanheng Menayothin                 54 (18 KOs)  2009-2019    Thailand

4.   Carlos “Canas” Zarate                52 (51 KOs)  1970-1978    México

5.   Floyd Mayweather, Jr.                  50 (27 KOs)  1996-2017    USA

 ____________________________________________________________________________

“The 50-0 Club is a very exclusive list I’m proud to be working toward,” Ramirez said. “All fighters go through ups and downs and understand the blood, sweat and tears to achieve anything in this sport. I feel very blessed and fortunate to be in the position I’m in today and I will never stop giving it my all in the sport. Hopefully, when I’m finished, I can leave a legacy in the sport that I can be proud of.”

NEW YORK – December 6, 2021 – International superstar Jake “The Problem Child” Paul will 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 (9p ET/6p PT).

Woodley steps in to replace professional boxer and reality TV star Tommy Fury, who withdrew from the event due to a medical issue that impacted his training camp. Paul vs. Woodley II is a professional cruiserweight bout scheduled for 8-rounds at a contract weight of 192 pounds.

“When my team woke me up on Friday to tell me Tommy was pulling out, I told them I’m ready to fight anyone on December 18,” said Paul, who is 4-0 as a pro boxer with three knockouts. “Troy, Trey, Trevor, Travis. I don’t give a damn who it is. So, as I predicted Tommy Fumbles and Tyron is there to pick it up, stepping in, and contractually he is getting an extra $500,000 if he knocks me out. First time I outboxed him. This time I’m gonna punish him and leave no doubt.”

On August 29, in front of a sold-out crowd of 16,000 fans at the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio, Paul registered a split decision over Woodley. The former UFC champion was Paul’s toughest opponent to date and the first fighter to take boxing’s newest star the distance. The judges scored the fight 77-75 for Paul, 77-75 for Woodley and 78-74 for Paul.

In his post-fight comments, Woodley said he thought he won the fight.

“I didn’t expect him to eat my punches like that. But the fact that one judge only gave me two rounds is insane. Forget that Tommy Fury fight. Let’s run that back,” said Woodley after the fight.

“The ropes held him up when I hit him,” Woodley continued. “I could have had that knockdown. I landed power punches and he missed shots all night.”

Fighting out of St. Louis, Mo., Woodley (19-7-1 MMA record) has a storied career in combat sports. He became UFC champion in July 2016, defeating Robbie Lawler in the first round, and went on to defend his title successfully four times. Before competing in the UFC, Woodley fought in the Strikeforce MMA promotion on SHOWTIME and compiled an 8-1 record from 2009 through 2012. Widely considered one of the most dangerous punchers in UFC history, Woodley earned 14 of his 19 wins by way of TKO or submission. He made his boxing debut in August, dropping a close decision to Paul.

As previously announced, the December 18 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-3 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 begins live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and is produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV. 

Limited tickets remain and are available for purchase at https://bit.ly/PAULvsWOODLEY.  

This event is the second live sporting event co-produced by Most Valuable Promotions. Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian created MVP on the premise that content is king, and fighters are the creators of the content in martial arts. Paul and Bidarian will be executive producers of the event.

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

Los Angeles, CA – December 6, 2021 – Legendary ring announcer Michael Buffer has been confirmed as master of ceremonies for Probellum: Revolution at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena on Saturday December 11.

Buffer is the latest high-profile addition to Probellum’s inaugural event, which includes a host of big-name fighters and two world title bouts.

Undoubtedly the most iconic MC in the world, Buffer’s glittering career has spanned over 30 years, with the American most famous for his “Let’s Get Ready to Rumble…” catchphrase.

While he is most commonly linked to boxing Buffer, older brother of UFC announcer, Bruce, has also showcased his talents at other major sporting events, including Major League Baseball’s World Series, NFL play-off matches and Stanley Cup championships’.

As well as being named master of ceremonies for Fight Night at the Coca-Cola Arena, Buffer will also be in attendance when the fighters take part in a Public Workout at City Walk on Wednesday December 8.

After confirming his involvement at Probellum: Revolution, Buffer said: “It’s a real privilege to be a part of this history-making Probellum show and I’m very much looking forward to announcing at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai for the first time in my career.

“The event features some of the most talented boxers in the world, along with two world title fights, and I hope to see many fans in attendance for what promises to be a wonderful night of fight action.

“Probellum is already making big waves in the world of boxing on a global scale, and I’m delighted to be involved in its first show.”

Richard Schaefer, Probellum President, added: “To secure the services of Michael Buffer for our first event is a tremendous coup.

“Michael needs no introduction. He is undoubtedly one of the most famous voices in boxing, and we look forward to welcoming him to the Coca-Cola Arena on December 11.

“Our first event is one which will go down in history, with a fantastic card and a world-class venue. The addition of Michael helps us elevate the occasion to an even greater level.”

Over the years, Buffer has announced countless fights involving the biggest names in boxing, including Sugar Ray Leonard, Mike Tyson, Floyd Mayweather, Manny Pacquiao and Canelo Alvarez. He was the man on the microphone for September’s heavyweight title fight between Anthony Joshua and Oleksandr Usyk in London.

Buffer also has an extensive list of film and television credits to his name having appeared in titles such as Rocky V, Creed, Creed II, Saturday Night Live, The Simpsons, South Park, Entourage and American Idol.

Already confirmed for Probellum: Revolution are two world title fights, with the UK’s Sunny Edwards defending his IBF flyweight title against Filipino challenger Jayson Mama, while another Filipino, John Riel Casimero, puts his WBO bantamweight title on the line against Paul Butler, from the UK.

In addition, exciting talents such as Donnie Nietes and Jono Carroll will be performing on the night, while fans in attendance will also have an opportunity to watch two Emirati fighters in action with Sultan Al Nuaimi and Fahad Al Bloushi scheduled to compete.

Tickets for the event are now on sale in-store at Virgin Megastore and online via Coca-Cola Arena and Platinum List.

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

WBA Lightweight World Championship – 12 Rounds

Gervonta Davis – 134 ½ lbs.

Isaac Cruz – 134 ¼ lbs.

Referee: Thomas Taylor; Judges: Carla Caiz (Calif.), Max DeLuca (Calif.), Zachary Young (Calif.)

WBC Super Welterweight Title Eliminator – 12 Rounds

Sebastian Fundora – 153 ¼ lbs.

Sergio Garcia – 153 ½ lbs.

Referee: Ray Corona; Judges: Tom Carusone (Conn.), Dr. Lou Moret (Calif.), Alejandro Rochin (Mexico)

WBC Middleweight Title Eliminator – 10 Rounds

Sergiy Derevyanchenko – 159 ½ lbs.

Carlos Adames – 159 ½ lbs.

Referee: Eddie Hernandez, Sr.; Judges: Jerry Cantu (Calif.), Tiffany Clinton (Calif.), Damian Walton (Calif.)

Super Featherweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Eduardo Ramirez – 129 ½ lbs.

Miguel Marriaga – 129 ½ lbs.

Referee: Marcos Rosales; Judges: Max DeLuca (Calif.), Damian Walton (Calif.), Zachary Young (Calif.)

#        #        #

ABOUT DAVIS VS. CRUZ

Davis vs. Cruz will see five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis defend his WBA Lightweight Championship against hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz live on SHOWTIME PPV on Sunday, December 5 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles in a Premier Boxing Champions event. 

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features rising super welterweight star Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora facing fellow unbeaten Sergio Garcia in a WBC Super Welterweight World Title Eliminator that serves as the co-main event. Plus, hard-hitting middleweight contenders Sergiy Derevyanchenko and Carlos Adames square off in a 10-round WBC Middleweight World Title Eliminator, while top super featherweight contender Eduardo Ramirez faces former title challenger Miguel Marriaga in the pay-per-view opener.

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

Sergio Pettis: “I came out here and got beaten up for four rounds. When it happened, I was just like, ‘Man I am losing this fight. I’ve got to do something spectacular.’ It (the decisive punch that ended the fight) came at the right time.”

“I needed to face some adversity, and tonight Horiguchi gave me all of that. It was hard trying to time his rhythm, trying to get his movement down.”

“My coaches always tell me, ‘If you open up, you could be one of the best in the world.’ That what I’m pushing for.”

#9-Jeremy Kennedy (17-3, 1 NC) defeated #4-Emmanuel Sanchez (20-7) via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

Jeremy Kennedy: “I can’t seem to find it. My coaches got mad at me in my last fight. I’ve got an atomic bomb. That’s what my coach said. It’s a 100-mile (per hour) fastball.  I’ve got to use it. Last fight, I didn’t. I wanted to try and mix it up, change my style.  I was competitive, but I had to get back to my roots.” 

“I would have liked to have mixed it up a bit more, but (Emmanuel) Sanchez is in your face the whole time. It was hard to dictate that calculated range. He just came right at me.”

“I put a lot of pressure on myself. I had a close friend pass away. He was in my corner for my last few fights.  I didn’t want to go home with a loss. I didn’t want to take any extra chance. I wanted to win every single exchange. I wanted to win every second, every moment of this fight. I didn’t care what that looked like. I had to get the ‘w.’ “

“Next time, I am going to get back to having fun and find that happy medium. This one is for Boom. I had to get my hand raised at all costs. I wasn’t coming out of this without a win.”

#7-Josh Hill (21-4) defeated Jared Scoggins (10-2) via KO (punch) at :56 of round two

Josh Hill: “This one was about timing. We knew the first round would be hard to get that timing down. He (Jared Scoggins) was very jumpy, in and out. That (punch that ended the fight) was right on the button.”

“I belong there (in the Bellator MMA World Grand Prix). I know this division is stacked, so I understand (why he wasn’t included). I want in. If there are any injuries or pull outs, I’m your man.”

“I saw him (Scoggins) go down and knew he was out. There was no point to keep going.”

“He (Scoggins) is very traditional, karate-esque. My coach and I worked on timing quite a bit. I knew the first round might be a little tricky. I landed a punch in the first, but it wasn’t on the money. The one in the second (that ended the fight) was.”

#5-Johnny Eblen (10-0) defeated Collin Huckbody (10-4) via TKO (punches) at 1:11 of round one

Johnny Eblen: “I wanted to send that dude (Huckbody) to the metaverse. Sadly, I could not do that tonight. I was I could have put on a better show, but it is what it is.”

“John Salter, I signed a bout agreement to fight you in Florida, but you [expletive withheld] out. I don’t know if you got hurt, or you [expletive withheld] out. But I want to see you in this [expletive withheld] cage, John.  Let’s gear up and let’s get after it.”

PRELIMINARY CARD:

Alexander Shabliy (21-3) defeated Bobby King (10-4) via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

Kai Kamaka III (9-4-1) defeated John de Jesus (14-10) via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

Levan Chokheli (10-1, 1 NC) defeated Vinicius de Jesus (9-5) via unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27, 30-27)

Justin Montalvo (4-0) defeated Jacob Bohn (10-8) via unanimous decision (29-27, 29-28, 29-28)

Mike Hamel (8-5) defeated Killys Mota (12-3) via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 30-27)

Spike Carlyle (13-3) defeated Dan Moret (15-7) via submission (rear-naked choke) at 2:58 of round three

Kyle Crutchmer (8-1) defeated #10-Oliver Enkamp (10-3) via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

Please visit Bellator.com for additional information.

****

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

LOS ANGELES – It was officially announced at tonight’s BELLATOR 272: Pettis vs. Horiguchi event that next year’s prestigious BELLATOR World Grand Prix will take place in the promotion’s incredibly stacked bantamweight division. The winner of tonight’s 135-Pound World Championship fight between Sergio Pettis and Kyoji Horiguchi will defend their title next year in the Bantamweight World Grand Prix featuring a gauntlet of the eight best athletes the weight class has to offer.

In addition to both Pettis and Horiguchi, the Bantamweight World Grand Prix is set to feature former divisional champion Juan Archuleta, No. 2 ranked-Raufeon Stots, No. 3 ranked-Patchy Mix, No. 4 ranked-Magomed Magomedov, No. 5 ranked-Leandro Higo, and No. 6 ranked-James Gallagher, who will all vie for the right to be named the next BELLATOR Bantamweight World Champion and take home a grand prize of one-million-dollars.

First-round matchups and additional details such as dates, locations and tournament alternates will be revealed soon.

All tournament bouts will be five-round contests and will be telecast in the United States exclusively on SHOWTIME.

Former BELLATOR Bantamweight World Champion Kyoji Horiguchi enters tonight’s contest unranked due to inactivity within the promotion. Official BELLATOR Rankings will be updated and distributed on Monday, Dec. 6.

Champion – Sergio Pettis (21-5):

Fighting out of Milwaukee, Wisc., Sergio Pettis captured the BELLATOR bantamweight crown in May 2021 by outpointing former champion Juan Archuleta in a fast-paced contest at BELLATOR 258. During a nearly six-year, 14-fight UFC stint, the Roufusport-product competed in both the flyweight and bantamweight classes, collecting nine victories and a pair of “Fight of the Night” honors against Alex Caceres and Matt Hobar in 2014. Prior to his UFC tenure, Pettis, the younger brother of former UFC lightweight champion Anthony Pettis, earned world titles in Resurrection Fighting Alliance’s flyweight division and North American Fighting Championship’s 135-pound class. Following a trio of impressive triumphs over some of the division’s elite, BELLATOR’s bantamweight champion is set to protect his belt and an unblemished 3-0 promotional mark entering the tournament.

Former BELLATOR Bantamweight Champion – Kyoji Horiguchi (29-3):

Hailing from Takasaki, Japan, the 31-year-old Kyoji Horiguchi is the reigning RIZIN bantamweight champion who notoriously became a simultaneous, two-promotion champion in 2019 after taking down and upsetting then-BELLATOR champion Darrion Caldwell at Madison Square Garden. Unfortunately, an injury would force Horiguchi to relinquish his BELLATOR title in 2019, and he now looks to reclaim his belt in a main event clash with current champion Sergio Pettis at BELLATOR 272. While with RIZIN, the American Top Team-product amassed an impressive 10-1 promotional mark, highlighted by eight finishes and five first-round knockouts. Additionally, more than half of Horiguchi’s career victories have come via knockout. Now, after reclaiming his RIZIN bantamweight strap and avenging only his third loss in 32 outings with a highlight-reel, opening-round knockout over Kai Asakura on New Year’s Eve 2020, the Japanese sensation fighting out of Coconut Creek, Fla., aims to get his hands back on BELLATOR’s title

No. 1 Ranked Bantamweight – Juan Archuleta (25-3):

With the Bantamweight World Grand Prix set, former BELLATOR World Champion and No. 1-ranked Juan Archuleta sees a clear path toward regaining the 135-pound crown. Armed with 25 professional victories, including 12 by way of K.O. or submission, the “Spaniard” has no issues stopping opponents inside the BELLATOR cage. The former four-division King of the Cage world champion, who holds victories over Patchy Mix, Henry Corrales, and Ricky Bandejas, strives to keep that trend going throughout the Grand Prix.

No. 2 Ranked Bantamweight – Raufeon Stots (17-1):

Considered one of the world’s best 135-pound fighters, Raufeon “Supa” Stots has been in the title conversation since his 2019 BELLATOR debut. Currently riding a nine-fight winning streak, the No. 2-ranked bantamweight has defeated some of BELLATOR’s finest, including Magomed Magomedov and Josh Hill, by smothering opponents with top-tier grappling ability. Sporting a near-perfect 17-1 record, the Roufusport product and two-time NCAA Division II Champion now has an opportunity to compete for a long-awaited crown.

No. 3 Ranked Bantamweight – Patchy Mix (15-1):

Set to make his sixth promotional appearance under the BELLATOR umbrella, the pride of Angola, N.Y., has collected two-first round submission victories while compiling a 4-1 record with the Scott Coker-led promotion. The 28-year-old Buffalo, N.Y. native looks to build off his most recent win at BELLATOR 270 over James Gallagher in his opponent’s hometown of Dublin, Ireland, last month. Prior to his time with BELLATOR, Mix dominated the competition while on the regional scene by collecting nine of his 15 professional victories, including five first-round finishes. Now, the submission specialist will face the toughest challenge of his career, a shot at the tournament’s $1 million prize and BELLATOR’s 135-pound strap.

No. 4 Ranked Bantamweight – Magomed Magomedov (18-2):

After capturing belts in different organizations, Dagestani phenom Magomed Magomedov hopes to add to his collection by taking home BELLATOR gold. Amassing an impressive 18-2 career record with 12 via finish, “Tiger” has made a swift impact on the BELLATOR 135-pound division since his December 2020 promotional debut by climbing to No. 4 in the rankings. Possessing both a blistering pace and superior grappling, Magomedov has the potential to be a nightmare matchup for anyone in the BELLATOR Bantamweight World Grand Prix.

No. 5 Ranked Bantamweight – Leandro Higo (21-5):

After dropping in weight to 135-pounds, Leandro Higo has been on a tear by winning three consecutive fights and putting the entire bantamweight division on notice. Under the tutelage of the famed Pitbull Brothers camp, the Brazilian is coming off a hard-fought, split-decision victory over former Bantamweight World Champion Darrion Caldwellat BELLATOR 259 in May 2021. As 12 of Higo’s 21 pro victories have come by submission, the entire bracket knows that the No. 5-ranked bantamweight will not be an easy out.

No. 6 Ranked Bantamweight – James Gallagher (11-2):

Hailing from Strabane, Ireland, one of MMA’s brightest young fighters strives to notch his 12th career victory in a tournament stacked with 135-pound talent. Following a finish over Anthony Taylor at BELLATOR 169 in December 2016 and a pair of first-round submissions the following year, “The Strabanimal” has tallied four victories over his past six contests, including three first-round finishes and a highlight reel 35-second win at BELLATOR 227. Poised for the biggest test of his young career, the former SBG Ireland-product aims to shed the shadow of former training partner, Conor McGregor, and add to his own legacy with a shot at BELLATOR bantamweight gold.

Please visit Bellator.com for additional information.

****

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. 

Stockton, Ca.–Weights for Saturday Night’s Toscano Promotions card at the Civic Auditorium in Stockton, California,

The nine-bout card can been seen worldwide via FITE.TV for $14.99 at 9 PM ET / 6 PM PT

The Non Pay-Per-View card can be seen on Toscano Promotions Youtube and TV Boxeo Youtube at 7:30 PM ET / 4:30 PM PT

Damian Sosa 154.8 – Clay Collard 154.2
Manuel Jaimes 137.6 – Moises Flores 142.8
Wade Jones III 140 – Edgar Ramirez 143.6
Felix Soria 146 – Andres Abarca 146.4
Gabriel Muratalla 118 – Victor Torres 120

Non Pay-Per-View Fiights

Vincent Avina 116 – Alexis Salido 116
Luis Chavez 147 – Jose Aguayo 149.6
Irving Xilohua 122.6 – Luis Valdez 121
Arturo Popoca 124.2 – Richard Esquibel 124.8

Promoter: Toscano Promotions
Venue: Stockton Civic Auditorium
1st Bell: 4:30 PT (6 PM FITE.TV PPV)

Tickets for this great card are $40 can be purchased at Ticketon.com

LOS ANGELES (December 3, 2021) – Fighters competing on the Gervonta Davis vs. Isaac Cruz SHOWTIME PPV undercard taking place this Sunday, December 5 (8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT) previewed their respective showdowns during a press conference Friday before they enter the ring in a Premier Boxing Champions event from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

The event featured rising super welterweight star Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora and fellow unbeaten Sergio Garcia, who compete in a WBC Super Welterweight Title Eliminator that serves as the co-main event, middleweight contenders Sergiy Derevyanchenko and Carlos Adames, who meet in a 10-round WBC Middleweight Title Eliminator, and featherweight contenders Eduardo Ramirez and Miguel Marriaga, who square-off in a 10-round attraction that opens the pay-per-view telecast.

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

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Friday from downtown Los Angeles:

SEBASTIAN FUNDORA

“My style just depends on the fight. If he gives me the chance to display my skills and shows he can last in there, then I’ll do that. But if I can end it quickly, then I’m going to do what I always do.

“If he’s willing to fight on the inside or try to walk me down, it’s going to go like my recent fights have gone. If he wants to box me, we’ll definitely be ready for that.

“I do what I worked on in training camp during a fight. I don’t worry about what Garcia is going to do. I’m not concerned with what style he brings. We’re prepared to be the best Sebastian Fundora possible.

“We want the belts. Whoever wins a Jermell Charlo vs. Brian Castano rematch, I want them in the ring. Those are the guys to beat and I want to prove myself against them.

“I’ve been improving with age and as I continue to mature. With each fight we pick up some new things based off how opponents attack me. That’s helped me be better each time I step into the ring.

“I just listen to everything my father says. That’s the respect and teamwork that we have for each other. If he wants me to keep this guy at a distance, I’ll do that. But if he wants me to run an opponent over, I’m ready to go.

“I can guarantee fans that you’re going to get your money’s worth on Sunday. I promise that this is going to be the fight of the night.”

SERGIO GARCIA

“It’s an honor for me to be here making my U.S. debut on SHOWTIME PPV. I feel absolutely no pressure. Fundora is a peculiar fighter for this division. He’s unusual to prepare for. But I have sparred against opponents as tall as he is. I feel ready for any challenge that he may throw my way on Sunday night.

“I’m not going to tell you what I’m going to do in the ring. It’s up to me to show you in the ring on Sunday night what I can do beyond just words. It’s my job to show the world what I’m capable of and to prevent the knockouts that Fundora is used to getting from happening. Fundora is going to come with his hunger, his ambition and his drive, and I’m going to do the same thing.

“I came here to win the fight and I came here to win hearts. It’s going to be a great fight because I didn’t come here to run. I came here to stand up to Fundora. I respect my opponent. I respect anybody who gets in the ring with me. I’m going to put my pride and my skills on the line and show everybody what I’m capable of.

“I’ve sparred with guys as tall as Fundora but those guys are actually heavier than Fundora is. I consider that an advantage. It’s something that made me tougher. Something that made me stronger. It’s going to come in handy when I get into the ring on Sunday night.

“I absolutely love this challenge. I’m coming into somebody else’s house. I have no pressure. All I want to do is give the fans a great show and enjoy each and every moment. Hopefully there’s a happy ending, but I plan to savor every single second that I have on Sunday night.

“Spanish boxing is certainly on the rise. But I fight for my family. I want to make them proud. I want to make my corner proud. Those are the people that mean the most to me and who I fight this fight for. For my fans in Spain and for my two little ones, my wife and my family.”

SERGIY DEREVYANCHENKO

“I have a lot of motivation for this fight. That and my power is going to help me. Winning this fight is going to keep my career going and put me where I want to get back to.

“I feel strong and I’m excited to face Adames. He’s a good fighter who hits hard. But I’m ready for anything he brings. I’ve fought the best middleweights in the world. I’ve faced power punchers before, so I’m not worried about his power.

“I’ve studied Adames and looked at some of his past fights. He’s a very strong fighter. I am familiar with him and we’ve been working during training camp for what he does. I know what I have to do on Sunday night and I’m going to show everyone during the fight.

“Of course I need to win this fight. This fight is the next step toward becoming world champion. I want to win this fight, face Jaime Munguia and then fight for the title again. My dream is to win the belt and that’s what I’m working toward.”

CARLOS ADAMES

“Every fight has something big on the line. Every fight is risky. Otherwise, why are you fighting? I always look for the biggest challenges. I want to fight against the best boxers, and Sergiy is certainly one of them. I am aware of everything that is at stake, but I do not run away from it. I am excited for what is going to come on Sunday night.

“I understand that he has fought against great fighters. In the end, he is fighting against Carlos Adames, and I am a big puncher. Don’t underestimate me. Otherwise, he is going to have a big problem on his hands. I consider myself to be a great fighter just like him.

“People didn’t think I would be that great at 147-pounds. I showed them. Then I went to 154, and they didn’t think I was going to be a great fighter, but I showed them there. Now I am at 160, and I am going to show them again how powerful I can be and how big of a threat I can be. Sergiy is a good fighter, but he’s not an obstacle for me. I don’t consider him to be an insurmountable mountain.

“Sparring is not a fight. He can spar with Superman. I don’t care. I am going to be ready for him. He is going to realize how strong I am. He can spar with whoever he wants, but Carlos Adames is a whole different thing.”

EDUARDO RAMIREZ

“In the end, whether the win comes by knockout or decision, it doesn’t really matter to me. What matters the most is the work that I put in the gym day in and day out for this fight to be reflected in the ring. I just want to give the fans a great show.

“I’m a guy that lives in the present, not the past. The list of fighters he has faced is impressive, but it doesn’t matter what he did in the past. It’s about what happens on Sunday night.

“In the end, for me, I hope to put Mexico’s flag in the air Sunday night. I want to make everybody proud in my country and show my fans what I’m capable of.

“As far as the world title opportunity, we do hope that a win brings me a title eliminator shot or perhaps even a world title fight. But in the end, I have to go step-by-step. I can’t look past this fight, otherwise none of my ambitions are going to come true.”

MIGUEL MARRIAGA

“Every fight is important, but in this case, this fight has a potential to earn myself another world title shot. It’s do or die because it is that big of a fight on Sunday night.

“I have fought against high caliber opponents, and Ramirez isn’t unbeatable. He is not someone that I am overly concerned about. I have to be focused, I have to be aware and not underestimate anybody. In the end, it’s about what I do inside the ring.

“Everybody knows I’ve come to Los Angeles ready to fight. I’m facing a quality opponent, but the most important thing is to believe in my preparation and to go look for the fight, not wait for the fight to come to me.

“I had great preparation for this fight. It’s a pleasure to be opening up the pay-per-view. Now it’s time to go out there and win.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“We have a fabulous undercard on Sunday night. Mayweather Promotions has promoted the biggest fights in the history of the sport and I can honestly say that this phenomenal undercard is probably in the top three ever that I’ve promoted.

“Top to bottom, this card is outstanding. In the co-main event, we have Sebastian Fundora, who is an exciting fighter and one my favorite in the sport today. He is going to be in for an all-out war against Sergio Garcia. These guys are going to give everything they’ve got.

“We all know Sergiy Derevyanchenko and have seen him in tough fights before and come up short in some questionable decisions. He’s going to look to take advantage of that experience on Sunday when he faces the tough and hard-hitting Adames in what shapes up to be an exciting bout.

“In the opening bout, we’re going to see top featherweight contender Eduardo Ramirez take on a former world title challenger in Miguel Marriaga. I can’t wait for this whole show. These are fights that you don’t want to miss.”

#

ABOUT DAVIS VS. CRUZ
Davis vs. Cruz will see five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis defend his WBA Lightweight Championship against hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz live on SHOWTIME PPV on Sunday, December 5 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features rising super welterweight star Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora facing fellow unbeaten Sergio Garcia in a WBC Super Welterweight World Title Eliminator that serves as the co-main event. Plus, hard-hitting middleweight contenders Sergiy Derevyanchenko and Carlos Adames square off in a 10-round battle, while top featherweight contender Eduardo Ramirez faces former title challenger Miguel Marriaga in the pay-per-view opener.

NEW YORK, NY (Dec. 3, 2021) — As the year is coming to a close, fighters are jockeying for world ratings to attain world title aspirations in the first half of 2022. On December 1st the WBA announced its newest rankings and the Star Boxing stable was well represented.

In November, undefeated Ukrainian super bantamweight OLEH “UKRAINIAN PITBULL” DOVHUN (13-0 5KO’s) went to battle with Glenn Dezurn in Pittsburgh for the NABA Super Bantamweight Title. Sweeping the cards in dominating fashion, Dovhun secured the NABA championship and as the saying goes, to the victor goes the spoils. Needless to say, Dovhun was not disappointed when the WBA announced him as their #6 world rated super bantamweight on Wednesday morning.

Intently watching the Figueroa-Fulton 122 lb. world title unification bout that took place on November 27, Dovhun is excited for the future “Great news! I am #6 in the world by the WBA,” said Dovhun. “Thank you to my team and everyone that supports me. Next I want to fight anyone in the top 5. Let’s go fight! God Bless America!”‘

In October, explosive knockout artist, CLETUS “THE HEBREW HAMMER” SELDIN (26-1 22KO’s) successfully defended his NABA Super Lightweight Title for the second time, defeating Brazilian William Silva by vicious seventh round KO via Seldin’s classic “hammer” of an overhand right. As of Wednesday’s announcement, Seldin is now rated #8 by the WBA and is looking towards a massive 2022. Seldin is also rated #14 by the IBF at 140 lbs.

Undefeated French super welterweight David Papot is now WBA world rated #10 at 154lbs. Papot, a former WBA Continental Middleweight Champion, now campaigning at super welterweight will look to place himself into world title contention with a victory in the onset of 2022. Papot is also world rated #6 by the WBO.

“I was pleased to be able to give our guys the great news of their new ratings with the WBA,” said Star Boxing CEO JOE DEGUARDIA?. “I commend the WBA in their effort of consolidating its title and ensuring that fighters who put in the work and take the tough fights are rewarded with opportunities such as being rated in the top 10 and eventually fighting for world titles. I congratulate Oleh, Cletus and David on this great accomplishment and look forward to big fights in 2022 for each of them.”

STAR BOXING’S UPCOMING EVENTS:

Star Boxing’s former WBO World Champion CHRIS ALGIERI is set to face off with rising welterweight prospect CONOR BENN on
December 11, in Liverpool England LIVE on DAZN.

Tickets available by clicking HERE

Long Island’s hero, JOE SMITH JR. will defend his WBO World Title against the power punching CALLUM JOHNSON on January 15, LIVE on ESPN from Turning Stone in Verona, NY.

Tickets available by clicking HERE

NEW YORK (Dec. 3, 2021) — Keyshawn Davis, the lightweight star who earned a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics, has a golden chance to shine on one of boxing’s biggest platforms. Davis (3-0, 2 KOs), in his first fight since signing a long-term deal with Top Rank, will face Mexican veteran Jose Zaragoza (8-3-1, 2 KOs) in a six-round bout Saturday, Dec. 11 on the undercard of the Vasiliy Lomachenko-Richard Commey lightweight main event.

Middleweight prospect Nico Ali Walsh (2-0, 2 KOs), grandson of “The Greatest,” Muhammad Ali, will fight fellow unbeaten Reyes Sanchez (6-0, 2 KOs) in the four-round televised opener.

Lomachenko-Commey, an eight-round heavyweight showdown between Jared Anderson and Oleksandr Teslenko, Davis-Zaragoza and Ali Walsh-Reyes will air live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes (simulcast on ESPN+) at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT following the 2021 Heisman Trophy Ceremony.

Davis, one of boxing’s most sought-after promotional free agents, signed a long-term contract with Top Rank last month. His notoriety soared following the Tokyo Olympics, a run that included a knockout win over France’s Sofiane Oumiha and a close loss to Cuban legend Andy Cruz in the gold medal match. Zaragoza has won three straight fights and has never been knocked out as a pro.

The full undercard will stream live on ESPN+ at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT and is scheduled to include the following bouts:

• Xander Zayas (11-0, 8 KOs), the rising Puerto Rican star and frontrunner for 2021 Prospect of the Year, will fight Italy’s Alessio Mastronunzio (9-1, 3 KOs) in a six-round junior middleweight clash. Zayas is 5-0 with three knockouts in 2021, including a fourth-round drubbing of Dan Karpency in October on the Shakur Stevenson-Jamel Herring undercard. Mastronunzio, who is making his American debut, is 4-0 in 2021.
   
• Undefeated welterweight Pablo “Pretty Boy” Valdez (5-0, 4 KOs), the popular New York City ticket-seller from the Lower East Side, is scheduled to fight Julio Cesar Sanchez (11-3, 6 KOs) in a six-rounder. Valdez fought Oct. 30 at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden, outlasting Alejandro Martinez in a toe-to-toe crowd-pleaser.
   
• Kelvin Davis (2-0, 1 KO), the older brother of Keyshawn Davis, will clash with Bryan Emmanuel Ramirez (1-1-1, 1 KO) in a four-rounder at welterweight. Kelvin Davis also signed with Top Rank last month.
   
• In an eight-round battle of unbeaten junior welterweights, John “El Terrible” Bauza (15-0, 6 KOs) will face Michael “Boy Wonder” Williams Jr. (19-0, 12 KOs). Bauza is coming off June’s second-round blitzing of Christon Edwards, while Williams seeks to tally his sixth victory of 2021.
   
• Staten Island-born featherweight prospect James “Crunch Time” Wilkins (9-2, 6 KOs) hopes to thrill the home city fans in an eight-rounder against Texas native Juan Tapia (10-3, 3 KOs). Wilkins, who was homeless on the streets of Staten Island early in his pro career, makes his Madison Square Garden debut with hopes of graduating to contender status.
   
• Former Irish amateur superstar “Mighty” Joe Ward (5-1, 2 KOs) looks to make it six wins in a row against Britton Norwood (10-3-1, 7 KOs) in a six-round light heavyweight tilt. Ward suffered a freak knee injury in his October 2019 pro debut against Marco Delgado and lost via second-round TKO. He avenged the loss with a one-sided decision over Delgado in March. As an amateur, Ward was a three-time European Championships gold medalist, a three-time World Championships medalist, and a 2016 Olympian.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with DiBella Entertainment, tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting Ticketmaster.com or MSG.com.

In order to attend the event, all guests age 12 and older are required to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination (this means having at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine prior to attending). MSG’s comprehensive COVID-19 guidelines, including those regarding children under 12, can be found at https://www.msg.com/madison-square-garden/faqs.

About Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.
Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (MSG Entertainment) is a leader in live entertainment. The Company presents or hosts a broad array of events in its diverse collection of venues: New York’s Madison Square Garden, Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall and Beacon Theatre; and The Chicago Theatre. MSG Entertainment is also building a new state-of-the-art venue in Las Vegas, MSG Sphere at The Venetian. In addition, the Company features the original production – the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes – and through Boston Calling Events, produces the Boston Calling Music Festival. The Company’s two regional sports and entertainment networks, MSG Network and MSG+, deliver a wide range of live sports content and other programming. Also under the MSG Entertainment umbrella is Tao Group Hospitality, with entertainment dining and nightlife brands including: Tao, Marquee, Lavo, Beauty & Essex, Cathédrale, Hakkasan and Omnia. More information is available at www.msgentertainment.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).

 TOKYO (Dec. 3, 2021) — The new year’s eve world title unification battle between junior bantamweight champions Jerwin Ancajas and Kazuto Ioka has been postponed.  Promoted by Shisei Boxing Gym, Manny Pacquiao’s MP Promotions, TGB Promotions, and Knucklehead Boxing Promotions, Ancajas (33-1-2, 22 KOs), from Panabo City, Philippines vs. Ioka (27-2, 15 KOs), from Tokyo, had the makings of the Fight of the Year, but because of the global spread of the new Omicron variant of Covid-19, and Japan’s ban against foreign travel to its country, that year will have to be 2022.  The New Year’s Eve test to be the best of the 115-pound division — between IBF champion Ancajas and WBO champion Ioka — was scheduled to take place Friday, Dec. 31, at Tokyo’s Ota-City General Gymnasium.    

            “Team Ancajas was looking forward to this historic fight against Ioka but understands there are bigger concerns than boxing in Japan and the world with the situation caused by the emergence of the latest variant,” said Sean Gibbons, president of MP Promotions.  “We remain committed to making this fight happen as soon as possible in Japan.”

Lyndon Arthur – 147lb 10oz
Anthony Yarde – 173lb 12oz

Hamzah Sheeraz – 153lb
Bradley Skeete – 153lb 4oz

Sam Noakes – 134lb 4oz
Shaun Cooper – 133lb 14oz

Dennis McCann – 124lb 3oz
Juan Jurado – 123lb 4oz

George Fox – 276lb 12oz
Kamil Sokolowski – 231lb 10oz

Karol Itauma – 175lb 7oz
Tamas Laska – 175lb 6oz

Charles Frankham – 133lb 5oz
Constantin Radoi – 134lb 3oz

Masood Abdulah – 129lb 12oz
Paul Holt – 128lb 9oz

Umar Khan – 125lb 3oz
Luke Merrifield – 125lb

Sonny Liston Ali – 143lb 8oz
Lee Hallett – 141lb 10oz

NEW YORK (Dec. 3, 2021) — The global spread of the new Omicron variant of Covid-19 has forced the postponement of the middleweight title unification fight between IBF/IBO champion Gennadiy “GGG” Golovkin and WBA champion Ry?ta Murata, scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 29, at the Saitama Super Arena in Saitama, Japan.  Promoted by Teiken Promotions Inc., in association with GGG promotions, the eagerly-awaited battle between the two-time world champions Golovkin (41-1-1, 36 KOs), from Karaganda, Kazakhstan, and Murata (16-2, 13 KOs), from Tokyo, was to have been streamed live to over 200 countries and territories, including the U.S., exclusively on DAZN (excluding Japan and Kazakhstan).  A new date for the fight is being actively explored.

            “I am deeply disappointed that this fight has been postponed but the health and safety of the public must always be the priority,” said Golovkin.  “I look forward to returning to the ring against Ry?ta as soon as possible.”

Stockton, Ca.–This Saturday night, December 4th, at the Civic Auditorium in Stockton, California, Toscano Promotions present a world-class night of professional boxing that will feature rising middleweight Damian Sosa taking on the popular Clay Collard in a bout scheduled for eight-rounds.

The nine-bout card can been seen worldwide via FITE.TV for $14.99 at 9 PM ET / 6 PM PT

The Non Pay-Per-View card can be seen on Toscano Promotions Youtube and TV Boxeo Youtube at 7:30 PM ET / 4:30 PM PT

Sosa of Tijuana, Mexico, has a record of 18-1 with 10 knockouts. The 24 year-old is a five-year professional, who has racked up wins against Giovanny Gonzalez (6-1), Angel Beltran Villa (9-0) and his bout when he won a split decision over previously undefeated Abel Mina (13-0) on June 19th in Guadalajara, Mexico.

Collard of Burley, Idaho became the darling of the “Top Rank Bubble Series” that took place at The MGM Grand in Las Vegas. The 28 year-old Collard has a record of 9-4-3 with four knockouts. Collard won three fights during the series over previously undefeated David Kaminsky (6-0) and Maurice Williams (7-1). Collard previously had wins over Maurice Winslow II (2-0), Du-Shane Crooks (13-1), Gerald Sherrell (10-1), Quashtown Toler (9-0) and Raymond Guajardo (5-0). Collard is looking to get back in the win column following a decision loss to undefeated Maidel Sando on February 20th in Shelby, Kentucky.

In the eight-round co-feature, undefeated lightweight Manuel Jaimes (11-0, 9 KOs) takes on former world champion Moises Flores in an eight-round bout.

Jaimes (11-0-1, 9 KOs) of Stockton, will look to thrill his hometown fans. The 21 year-old is a three-year professional, and has impressive wins over Lorenzo Antonio Juarez (5-0), Francisco Julian Rodriguez Rubio (9-1-1) and Christian Santiago Vazquez (15-0-1). Jaimes is coming off his first blemish as he fought to a draw with Alejandro Frias on February 27th in Jalisco,Mexico.

Flores of Guadalajara, Mexico has a record of 25-4-1 with 17 knockouts. The 35 year-old Flores is a 13 year-professional.

Flores won his first 25 fights (with two no-decisions). He attained wins over Oscar Arena (19-2) & Rodolfo Hernandez Montoya (24-3-1). On April 18, 2015, Flores won the WBA Interim Super Bantamweight title with a 12-round split-decision over Oscar Escandon (24-1) in Carson, California. He made two defenses of the title with wins over Luis Emanuel Cusolito (21-1) and Paulus Ambunda (24-1). He fought to a no-contest with unified world champion Guillermo Rigondeaux. Moises lost his bid for the WBA title when he lost to Danny Roman. Flores was stopped in one by Carlos Dixon on July 2nd in Louisville, Kentucky.

There will be three more fights as part of the FITE.TV Pay-Per-View. for $14.99

In a six-round super lightweight fight, Wade Jones III (8-1, 6 KOs) of Stockton, California fights Mario Aguirre (3-14-, 3 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico.

Felix Soria (5-0, 3 KOs) over Riverside, California takes on Andres Abraca (2-6) of Normandy Park, Washington in a four-round welterweight fight.

Gabriel Muratalla (5-0, 3 KOs) of Fontana, California takes on Victor Torres (7-9, 5 KOs) of Modesto, California in a four-round bantamweight.

In Non Pay-Per-View action:

Vincent Avina (5-0, 5 KOs) of Salinas, California battles Alexis Salido (2-1, 2 KOs) of Ciudad, Mexico in a six-round bantamweight contest.

Luis Chavez (1-0) of Salinas, California tussles with debuting Jose Aguayo of San Ramon, California in a four-round welterweight fight.

Irving Xlohua of Stockton, California makes his pro debut against Luis Valdez (7-10-1, 2 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico in a four-round super bantamweight clash.

Arturo Popoca (1-0, 1 KO) of Riverside, California takes on Richard Esquibel (0-1) of Albuquerque, New Mexico in a four-round super bantamweight fight.

Tickets for this great card are $40 can be purchased at Ticketon.com

LOS ANGELES (December 2, 2021) – Five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis and hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz went face-to-face at the final press conference Thursday before they battle for Davis’ WBA Lightweight Title in the SHOWTIME PPV main event this Sunday, December 5 from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

The pay-per-view telecast will begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and see Davis’ third-straight pay-per-view headlining attraction, as the three-division champion duels the IBF-ranked No. 2 lightweight in Cruz, a Mexico City-native who has earned his “Pitbull” moniker through his hardnosed style.

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

Here is what the press conference participants, including Mayweather Promotions President Floyd Mayweather, had to say Thursday from downtown Los Angeles:

GERVONTA DAVIS

“I’m thankful to everyone here today and everyone who’s made this fight possible. This is going to be another big night. It’s my first time fighting on Sunday and I’m looking forward to it. I’m ready to put on another great performance.

“I think fighting shorter guys is harder than fighting guys taller than me. You have to punch down and find him. But I’m coming with my top game, so we’ll see how it plays out Sunday.

“I can’t say too much about my strategy, you’re just going to have to wait and see Sunday. He can say whatever he wants right now, but it’s different when you get hit in the face.

“This is going to be a big event and an exciting fight. We’re fighters who like to come forward, and when you get these types of styles, we’re going to crash into each other.

“The opponent change is just a part of boxing. I had to adapt to it just like I’ll adapt to what Cruz brings on fight night. We changed some small things in camp, but we know our mission is to get the job done no matter who it is.

“When you’re in the ring, if you have good coaches, they can tell you when a guy is hurt and when it’s time to pick it up. I believe in my team to the fullest. With all of us putting our mind together, we’ll come out on top.

“Even us facing off today, I’m looking to see his height and reach and things like that. I pay attention to everything so that on fight night I’m fully prepared.

“I can’t say exactly what’s going to happen in the fight because that would be overlooking him. I’m not going to make the mistake other fighters have made. I’m ready to go 12 rounds and I’m looking forward to Sunday.

“He’s saying I haven’t faced someone like him, but he’s never faced anyone like me either. He can say what he wants to build up the fight.

“I’ve been the underdog like Cruz before. I know that he’s coming fully prepared and coming strong. I remember when my back was against the wall. It’s do-or-die right now and he’s coming with it, not only for himself, but for his family.”

ISAAC CRUZ

“I’m hungrier and I’m more motivated than ever to give a great future to my wife and my son. This is my dream since I was a little kid and I am here to make that dream come true. I am going to give my all to make it happen.

“My training camp has been all about endurance and I’m fully prepared to give a great show for the fans and everybody tuning in on Sunday night.

“It’s simple. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. He has never faced anybody that fights like me before. My hunger and my will to win is unparalleled. He’s going to feel it on Sunday night.

“I guarantee a great fight. I guarantee excitement. I want the fans to be excited whether they tune in on SHOWTIME PPV or are at STAPLES Center. I want them to go home happy.

“I’m very confident in any punch that I throw. Like the Mexican saying goes, ‘whichever way it goes, it goes.’ But I’m very comfortable in my own skin and in my own style. I believe in what I can do on Sunday night.

“Gervonta is a very strong fighter. I consider him the best in the division, but he’s human and he’s not impossible to beat. My goal will be to bring him down a notch and show who I am as well.

“I know that Manny Pacquiao is well aware of this fight happening and we hope to make him proud as a part of Manny Pacquiao Promotions. He said that he believes in me and that we have to train hard and give it our all out in the ring. Regardless of what happens, he is going to be proud of us and he believes we can come out on top.

“It was mixed feelings when I learned that I would be stepping in to take this fight. There were a lot of emotions coming in all at once. But once we realized that this was the opportunity of a lifetime, we had to take advantage and get ready for it. Now we are here ready to take it head on.

“We have seen a lot of Gervonta’s fights. We have drawn conclusions both good and bad. We have studied Gervonta to the fullest. Our hunger for glory is so far ahead of anything you can think of. We are going to give it our all in the ring.

“Gervonta is a strong fighter. He’s a tough fighter. But he’s not impossible to beat. We are not scared of his speed. We have been training hard to be able to counter his speed. He has a strong uppercut. He throws a variety of punches. But we are prepared. Regardless of what previous fighters have done against him, we have prepared to counter anything he can throw our way.”

FLOYD MAYWEATHER, President of Mayweather Promotions

“This is another big fight between two great competitors who are going out there to show the world what they’ve got. ‘Tank’ has been on the big stage for a while now, but he’s giving another fighter the opportunity to be great. Before I was ‘T.B.E’, someone had to give me the opportunity, just like Cruz is getting.

“Cruz is a tough fighter. When this fight was first made, I didn’t know much about Cruz. But when I did my homework, I saw that I’ve faced guys like him before. You can’t overlook any opponent, but especially one like Cruz.

“’Tank’ has unbelievable boxing skills and the will to win. I see very similar qualities in Isaac Cruz. On Sunday, it’s going to be an explosive night.

“‘Tank’s’ trainers have got him covered all across the board. They went out there and did what they had to do throughout training camp and ‘Tank’ is going to be ready come Sunday.

“These weights between 130 and 140-pounds are the strongest in boxing right now. That’s just my opinion. In this fight, we have two of the best fighters at lightweight squaring off.

“This is going to be a very entertaining fight and I can’t wait. We have a great undercard, but I really can’t wait for the main event. Sunday is going to be our day, make sure you don’t miss it.

“It was a team effort deciding to put the fight on Sunday. The Super Bowl is on a Sunday, a lot of award shows and the NBA All-Star Game are all on Sundays. A lot of times on Saturdays, people go out to the nightclubs because they work a 9-5 and want to enjoy their Friday and Saturday. But Sunday, everyone is at home, they can sit down, enjoy the festivities and take in this great card.”

CALVIN FORD, Davis’ Trainer

“Cruz is a very aggressive fighter. This will be a fight you don’t want to miss. This is the fight where I’m looking for that fighter to bring the best out of Gervonta Davis.

“Is Cruz the one to push ‘Tank’ further than he’s been pushed? From what I’ve seen from Cruz on ALL ACCESS, I can see that he’s on a mission. He’s definitely on a mission and we ain’t sleeping on him. You’ll want to tune-in to this fight. This is the one.”

BARRY HUNTER, Davis’ Co-Trainer

“‘Tank’ is an amazing fighter. He’s very explosive and very skilled. He brings a lot to the table as it pertains to the sport. I’m just looking for a great, fan-friendly fight. We have got all the confidence in the world in him, his abilities, and what we’ve done to prepare.

“I want to thank Cruz, his dad and his team for even accepting the challenge and stepping up to the plate. I know he’s hungry, I know he’s prepared, and I know he has what it takes to win that world title, it’s just not happening now.”

ISAAC CRUZ SR., Cruz’s Father and Trainer

“It has been a long training camp, but we have been up to the challenge. Hopefully, Isaac will be the one ending up on top with the championship belt after Sunday night.

“We’ve prepared for everything possible heading into this fight. We wouldn’t have taken the fight if we didn’t know that Isaac could win. We’re going to be ready when that bell rings on Sunday.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“Sunday night is going to be nothing but fireworks. I can’t give anything but credit to Isaac Cruz coming into this fight. I know he’s mentally prepared. We’ve had our eye on Cruz since his explosive performance in San Antonio on Gervonta’s undercard last year. I knew then that he was going to be a guy that ‘Tank’ was going to have to face.

“We all witnessed just last week what happens when you’re a top fighter and you don’t prepare the right way and you take your opponent lightly. But ‘Tank’ doesn’t do that. He takes everyone seriously and he knows that Isaac is prepared and coming to knock him off his throne.

“’Tank’ has had an excellent camp and has done everything his coaches have asked of him. I’m impressed with his maturation and how he’s come into his own both inside and outside of the ring. With all of that combined, I believe that we’re going to see the best of Gervonta Davis this Sunday night.”

#

ABOUT DAVIS VS. CRUZ
Davis vs. Cruz will see five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis defend his WBA Lightweight Championship against hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz live on SHOWTIME PPV on Sunday, December 5 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features rising super welterweight star Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora facing fellow unbeaten Sergio Garcia in a WBC Super Welterweight World Title Eliminator that serves as the co-main event. Plus, hard-hitting middleweight contenders Sergiy Derevyanchenko and Carlos Adames square off in a 10-round battle, while top featherweight contender Eduardo Ramirez faces former title challenger Miguel Marriaga in the pay-per-view opener.

New York (December 2, 2021)–Split-T Management is proud to announce the signing of 2021 Olympic Bronze Winner Oshae Jones to a managerial contract.

“We are very excited to add Oshae to our roster. She is one of the most decorated amateur boxers, and we feel she will be recognized as one of the top boxers in the world in a very short time,” said David McWater of Split-T Management.

“I am happy, and overwhelmed to sign with Split-T Management. I have known David McWater ever since I was in the amateurs, and I trust him like a godfather. I know he is the only one that can get me in the right direction to get me the best opportunities and eventually win a world championship,” said Jones.

Jones, 23 of Toledo, Ohio began boxing at the age of 12, spawning a magnificent amateur career that saw her amass a record of 60-9 whilst competing all over the world.

Oshae received the key to her hometown, and was honored with a parade upon coming home with her Olympic Bronze Medal.

“Being able to represent my country in the Olympics really hit home for me because when I came home and realized all of these little girls started to look up to me. When I was younger, I wanted a female role model. I became the person that I always wanted. To see these little girls yelling my name at the parade made me realize that I accomplished something big. I showed that you can dress up and show your feminine side, yet still be a world class athlete.”

She dominated and won many prestigious tournaments such as the 2020 Stramdja, 2020 Boxam International, 2017 Eastern Elite Qualifier, 2016, 2017 and 2018 Elite Nationals, as well as the 2016 Youth Open and 2014 National PAL.

Two of Oshae’s most significant victories came when she received the Gold Medal at the 2019 Pan Am Games and finished first at the 2020 United States Olympic Trials.

She is the first female welterweight to represent the United States in the Olympics.

“It’s going to be a hard transition, but I can already feel and see myself maturing and perfecting the pro style.”

Joseph ‘JoJo’ Diaz says that people are sleeping on his speed, power and skills as he prepares to challenge Devin Haney for the WBC World Lightweight title at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Saturday December 4, live worldwide on DAZN.
Tickets starting at $58 (plus fees) go are on sale NOW!
Diaz, Jr. (32-1-1 15KOs) bids to become a two-weight World champion in Sin City, having previously come out on top in a Matchroom vs. Golden Boy fight when he took the IBF Super-Featherweight title from Tevin Farmer in Miami in January 2020.

The 29 year old landed the interim WBC strap in his first fight at 135lbs in July against Javier Fortuna, and now takes on another big task in the shape of the undefeated green and gold belt holder Haney (26-0 15 KOs).

Diaz, Jr. has a clear edge in experience over the 23 year old champion, with the 2012 Olympian having 101 more pro rounds under his belt than Haney, but Diaz, Jr. says that wisdom isn’t the only thing that gives his the edge over the defending king.

“Experience will be a key factor in my victory, but my power, speed and boxing ability are important too and I think that they are being underestimated,” said Diaz, Jr. “I’m a 2012 Olympian, I’ve been a World champion, I’ve boxed great fighters and I’ve paid my dues to get here. I’m here for a reason and from my hard work, and that’s going to be the difference.

“Devin is an elusive and smart defensive fighter, but I don’t feel he has the experience that I have. He has good range, and he uses his jab to keep on the outside, but it’s nothing I haven’t seen before, I’ve seen multiple styles in the ring and whatever he brings, I’ll adapt.

“I feel that he’s the kind of guy that doesn’t have confidence in himself and he needs people around him to boost, build and gain his confidence. Me – I am self-confident, self-motivated, I know what I am doing and what I am capable of, and I am going to get him out of there.”

VERONA, N.Y. (Dec. 2, 2021) — Joe Smith Jr., Long Island’s working class hero, will make the long-awaited first defense of his WBO light heavyweight world title against British knockout artist Callum Johnson on Saturday, Jan. 15 at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, N.Y.

Smith-Johnson kicks off the Top Rank on ESPN 2022 schedule with a battle between two of the division’s biggest punchers. Smith was supposed to defend his title Oct. 30 in New York City, but a COVID-19 diagnosis delayed his return to 2022.

In the 10-round featherweight co-feature, the undefeated Abraham “El Super” Nova, who hails from Albany, N.Y., will face Mexican action star Jose Enrique Vivas. Smith-Johnson and Nova-Vivas will air live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes (simulcast on ESPN+) at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT.

The undercard — streaming live and exclusively on ESPN+ — will see the long-awaited professional return of Cincinnati-born featherweight Duke Ragan (4-0, 1 KO), who captured a silver medal for the United States at the Tokyo Olympics. Long Island-born welterweight sensation Jahi Tucker (5-0, 2 KOs), Puerto Rican junior welterweight Omar Rosario (5-0, 2 KOs) and rising junior welterweight Kasir “Mazzi” Goldston (4-0, 1 KOs), are scheduled to appear in separate six-round bouts.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing and Frank Warren’s Queensberry Promotions, tickets priced from $49 to $89 go on sale Friday, December 3 at 10 a.m. ET and can be purchased at the Turning Stone Resort Box Office, charge by phone by calling 800.771.7711 or online at Ticketmaster.

“Joe Smith Jr. always delivers, and he is in against a tough customer in Callum Johnson. This is a can’t-miss main event to kick off our 2022 Top Rank on ESPN schedule,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Vivas is the ultimate test for a young, undefeated contender like Nova. Like our main event, you’re going to witness a tremendous battle.”

Smith (27-3, 21 KOs) retired the legendary Bernard Hopkins with a storybook knockout in 2015, but it took him nearly six years to capture a world title. He fell short in his first attempt versus Dmitry Bivol in 2019, but in 2020, big-fight opportunities knocked. Smith battered Jesse Hart over 10 rounds in January and then knocked out former world champion Eleider Alvarez through the ropes in August. Nearly eight months after the Alvarez triumph, he edged Maxim Vlasov by majority decision to earn the vacant WBO world title. He became the fourth Long Island-born boxing world champion, joining Buddy McGirt, Chris Algieri, and former WBO junior lightweight world champion Jamel Herring. After a full recovery, Smith returned to training intent on staking his claim as the world’s preeminent 175-pounder.

Smith said, “I am glad to be getting back into the ring as quickly as I am to defend my WBO world championship after having COVID. It is not the fight the fans or I expected, but this will be an explosive fight between two huge punchers. I look forward to facing Johnson and defending my belt in front of my fans, as well as putting on a great show for the ones watching at home.”

“Joe Smith Jr. is always exciting to watch, but this fight could top them all. This is ‘must-see TV’ and a perfect fight to launch ESPN’s 2022 boxing season,” said Joe DeGuardia, President of Star Boxing. “We are looking forward to Joe defending his WBO world title against Callum Johnson. With two of the hardest punchers in boxing fighting each other, it doesn’t get more explosive than this. Don’t miss this fight, and don’t blink!”

Johnson (20-1, 14 KOs) is a former British and Commonwealth light heavyweight champion riding a three-fight winning streak since a 2018 knockout loss to current WBC/IBF unified champion Artur Beterbiev. Johnson knocked Beterbiev down in the second round, but Beterbiev rebounded and knocked out Johnson in the fourth. Johnson, from Boston, England, shared the same bill with Smith at Turning Stone Resort Casino in March 2019. Johnson knocked out Sean Monaghan in three rounds, while Smith lost a decision to Bivol in a bid for the WBA light heavyweight title.

Johnson said, “Joe is a good world champion, and we’re both big punchers. I’m looking forward to it as much as I’m sure he will be. I also would like to thank Frank Warren and the team at Queensberry, who said they would deliver me a world title shot. They’ve done their job, and now it’s time for me to do my job in the ring and become the new WBO light heavyweight champion.”

“I’m delighted to deliver this opportunity for Callum,” said Hall of Fame Promoter Frank Warren. “When he came with us, he said he wanted to get active again and become a world champion. Callum has his chance now to realize his dream, and if he fights like I know he can, there is no reason why Britain won’t crown a new world champion on January 15.”

Nova (20-0, 14 KOs), world-ranked at junior lightweight, is now campaigning at featherweight. In June 2020, he turned away Avery Sparrow by unanimous decision, but in training camp for his next fight, he suffered a torn Achilles tendon. Nova was out of action more than a year and returned in August with an eight-round decision over Filipino veteran Richard Pumicpic. Vivas (21-1, 11 KOs) is a classic Mexican pressure fighter, a 27-year-old native of Texcoco who has won four in a row since a decision defeat to Ruben Villa. In October 2020, he needed only 76 seconds to knock out John Vincent Moralde. He returned in May and rose from a pair of third-round knockdowns to edge Louie Coria by unanimous decision.

About Turning Stone Resort Casino

Host of the January 15^th event, Turning Stone Resort Casino is a Forbes Four-Star Award-winning destination resort, which continues to distinguish itself as a premier venue for fight-of-the-year caliber boxing. Turning Stone features world-class amenities including The Lounge with Caesars Sports, a state-of-the-art sports book in partnership with Caesars Entertainment, five hotels, more than 20 signature dining options, two spas, a 125,000 square foot Las Vegas style gaming floor, multiple entertainment venues, five golf courses, and several bars and lounges offering live entertainment every weekend.  Additionally, Turning Stone is the Official Resort Casino of the International Boxing Hall of Fame Weekend. The partnership is a multifaceted initiative to spotlight boxing throughout the entire region. The program includes a series of boxing events at Turning Stone that culminate every year in June with an elaborate and bigger-than-ever International Boxing Hall of Fame Weekend celebration.  International Boxing Hall of Fame Weekend will be held June 9 – 12, 2022.

As an increasing number of athletes and performers now require ticketholders to be vaccinated, Turning Stone has updated its health and safety protocols for the Event Center, The Showroom and Exit 33 nightlife venues to align with industry health and safety protocols.  All ticketholders 12 years or older are required to provide proof of vaccination to attend any event at the Turning Stone Event Center or The Showroom. Children 11 years or younger who are not vaccinated are required to show proof of a negative Covid-19 test within 72 hours of the event and will be required to wear face coverings while at Turning Stone. Guests visiting areas other than the Event Center, The Showroom and Exit 33 nightlife venues at Turning Stone are not required to provide proof of vaccination.

Media credential requests for the January 15^th fight should be emailed to Kelly Abdo, Director of PR for Turning Stone, at kelly.abdo@turningstone.com.

WITH THE BIG rematch looming on Saturday night at the Copper Box Arena, Lyndon Arthur and Anthony Yarde met the media for the final time ahead of the crunch clash this afternoon at the BT Sport studios in Stratford.

Sat at the top table were Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren, trainers Pat Barrett and Tunde Ajayi, along with both the fighters. Dev Sahni posed the questions and below are a selection of quotes from the media session.

Frank Warren

It is a fantastic fight and it should be added that Lyndon is No.1 with the WBO, so the winner of this fight will get the winner of Joe Smith v Callum, Johnson in January. That is what is on the table, there is more at stake in this fight and, as we know, the first fight took place behind closed doors. It was a good fight but it didn’t spark as I expected it to. It was a close fight that I thought Lyndon won, but this one will be different for many reasons. There is more at stake and it is in front of a live audience. They know each other well enough now, they have shared a ring for 12 rounds, so who has learned the most from that first fight? Who will change tactics from the first fight? Who will adapt?

This fight is the chance for both of them to put right whatever they felt didn’t happen for them in the first one. I think we have got something special, this time around it is going to spark, and we will have a special fight between two extremely good, world quality fighters. I am so looking forward to it.

There was no crowd last time and, to be fair to Sunny Edwards, he made up for the crowd and was very, very vocal. That has gone now and where we are now is Saturday night, which will be the acid test for the both of them.

Tunde Ajayi

My focus is not on what has been said. Saturday night is my main focus, I am not here to discuss Pat Barrett and what he’s done or even what I have done in the sport. This is, as Frank put it at the last press conference, this is war. Talking can get you far and it has done for many people, but there comes a point where you have got to show what it is. Myself and Anthony haven’t done too much talking to get to this point and I feel it is incumbent on us to continue showing those who come from a certain environment how to conduct themselves when you get to a certain level in the sport.

Everything is a lesson and absolutely I have looked back on the last fight. There has been a lot of growth, development and evolving, not only for myself, but for the team because we are very analytical in our preparation and have always been. There has been growth for everyone.

Anthony Yarde can do everything and I feel on Saturday night you will see something special. He can jab, he got a good right hand, a good left hook, a good left and right upper cut, a good left hook to the body and he’s got a good right hook to the body. So we aren’t focused on one man’s asset. We’ve got assets and they could end up being liabilities for the opponent.

Pat Barrett

I think they made a good choice in adding James Cook to the team, who is a very respectable fighter. I watched him coming up and he did it the hard way, he knows boxing and know how to come from the bottom to make it to the top. He is a creditable trainer and, really and truly, he should be sat up here at the table discussing Anthony. Yes I think he is very good.

It is kind of like Man City, who had so many managers before they could find the right one. I just don’t think there is enough time in the camp to say it is going to change him because it is not about physical attributes, it is about mental attributes. Me and Lyndon have grown together and the gelling has always been there. I’ve watched Lyndon grow up from being a kid to a man and the fighter he is today. The only changes I do with Lyndon is make him better.

I know the way Anthony Yarde is going to come because all they talk about is knocking people out. He is very good and I respect Anthony as a fighter. He is good at everything he does like Tunde says. When it is said we are looking at one thing with the jab, it is the master key that opens everything up. The funny thing is, they don’t respect Lyndon’s punching power and that will be their downfall because what they have got to realise is Lyndon is capable of doing more than one thing. He is intelligent in the ring, he can hold the pace when he wants to, he can drop it when he wants to, he can control it, he is good at distancing – he has got everything it takes at a world class level.

What you need to realise is trying to knock somebody out can also get you knocked out yourself. You have got to be smart in the boxing ring so my advice is to listen to James and become more of a thinker.

Anthony Yarde

I think it is a mixture looking back on the first fight. I am not going to take anything away from Lyndon because he did his job, stayed on the back foot, popped out the jab and didn’t engage. One hundred per cent it was down to me more than what he did. I think people can see that. They were waiting for me to put on the gas and it was literally my decision making. You saw it in the last round, when I went for it, it was a completely different fight. My mindset at the time was, it is the 12th round now, you’ve done the rounds and can put the gas on now full throttle.

It was just decision making and timing. My mindset was not there for the fight. I do not make excuses and I was heated straight after the fight, but you can’t reverse anything and you’ve got to go in there and take opportunities.

He got the decision, a split decision and there are mixed opinions in boxing. One judge gave it to me by four or five rounds and two gave it to him by one round so it is just perspective and how you see the fight. At the time I thought I won it, they thought it was close and, going back and watching it from a different angle, I thought it was a closer fight as well. I am not about to bullsh*t anyone or lie about anything. I am a realist and you cannot progress or get better if you are not honest with yourself.

I watched it back and kept saying it was sh*t, but I was going through a lot and my mind was not on boxing at all. People will probably understand that, but I am a person that doesn’t make excuses. It is all about this Saturday.

Lyndon Arthur

It is not a case of getting this one out of the way because, like I have said in interviews, he has been a good dance partner for me. In this part of my career it is the best fight financially and also the best fight to get me out there again. It is not about seeing the back of him because it has been fun. The first fight was my coming out party and this will kind of cement it. It is part of my journey.

It is completely cool for him to say I am a boring fighter because the boring fighter won. I don’t need to listen to anyone, if they think I am boring, everyone is entitled to an opinion. It is sport and everyone in this room has an opinion on me and him. Whether they like me or him is down to them. I don’t care.

If I am boring, I will win boring. We will find out on Saturday whether a crowd benefits either of us. He thinks it does, but I don’t think it benefits him. I don’t care, it is a fight and the crowd can’t get in there. They can scream, they can shout and it will make a fun atmosphere. I had Sunny there before and he is like a crowd.

The pre-fight stuff is entertainment. The business part of this is Saturday and it is fun until we get in the ring across from each other, in my opinion.

LOS ANGELES (December 1, 2021) – Five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis and hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz previewed their battle for Davis’ WBA Lightweight Title at a media workout Wednesday before they headline a SHOWTIME PPV this Sunday, December 5 from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

The workout also featured unbeaten super welterweight contender Sergio Garcia, who takes on rising star Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora in a WBC Super Welterweight World Title Eliminator that serves as the co-main event of the pay-per-view telecast beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

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

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from Wild Card Boxing in Los Angeles:

GERVONTA DAVIS

“The change in opponent didn’t affect much in my training. That’s just the sport of boxing. You have to be ready for anything. I always know that I have to adapt to whatever comes my way.

“Everyone says he’s going to come forward, but that’s easier said than done. If he does, we’ll give the fans an exciting fight. We know that’s his game plan. I just have to be smart, do what I do best and put on a perfect performance.

“Just make sure you tune into this fight. This is going to be a good one. I’ve been training 13 weeks for this, so I’m going to be ready and well prepared.

“It’s amazing to be fighting on Sunday. You have football during the day and boxing at night. I have a lot of young fans that watch me and I think this is going to be a great show.

“I’m excited to be in Los Angeles. I was made for this stage and I can’t wait to put on a great performance Sunday.

“Having a second child has matured me as a person and a fighter. I have two daughters to look after. I know I have to go out there and do my thing as a professional athlete, but I know the responsibility that also comes with being a father.”

ISAAC CRUZ

“We are extremely motivated for this fight. We have been training really hard and we’ve put in the maximum effort day after day. This Sunday, we’re going to be ready for the challenge.

“We have been preparing the best way that we can. We are going to fight smart. We’re going to stay within our style and then go forward with the best strategy to win the title.

“Gervonta is a great champion and if he said that I’m a tougher fight than Rolando Romero, then there is a reason for that. He knows that I’m a better fighter than Romero because he saw me fight in San Antonio. There is a reason for his comments.

“I’m here to do my job to win the fight, and whether it’s by decision or knockout I’m going to try to win no matter what.

“I am going to show everybody that Isaac Cruz is a true Mexican warrior and I’m going to show them what I’m worth with every punch I throw. They will see what I’m worth on Sunday, December 5.”

SERGIO GARCIA

“I’m just glad to have this kind of opportunity on a card of this magnitude. I plan to take advantage of it. We’ve worked so hard to get here, and I know I have to put up my best effort to make the most of this chance that I have.

“I came to win this fight and win the hearts of the fans. I’m not going to be running. I’m going to stand up strong, be aggressive and show everyone that I’m for real. You’re going to be seeing me for a long time.

“Fundora is definitely an interesting opponent. It’s not common to see someone at his height in our division. I sparred with a lot of fighters who were his height and a lot heavier. That preparation is going to be to my advantage on fight night.

“The fanbases in the U.S. and in Europe are very different, but in the end, the ring is the same and we’re not going to be intimidated by fighting in a new country.

“I want people to know that I came here to fight my heart out and leave everything in the ring. Fans can count on a great show Sunday night.”

#

ABOUT DAVIS VS. CRUZ
Davis vs. Cruz will see five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis defend his WBA Lightweight Championship against hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz live on SHOWTIME PPV on Sunday, December 5 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features rising super welterweight star Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora facing fellow unbeaten Sergio Garcia in a WBC Super Welterweight World Title Eliminator that serves as the co-main event. Plus, hard-hitting middleweight contenders Sergiy Derevyanchenko and Carlos Adames square off in a 10-round battle, while top featherweight contender Eduardo Ramirez faces former title challenger Miguel Marriaga in the pay-per-view opener.

UNCASVILLE, CONN. (Dec. 1, 2021) – It’s the most wonderful time of the year as BELLATOR MMA rings in the holiday season and closes out a stellar 2021 with BELLATOR Bantamweight World Champion Sergio Pettis (21-5) defending his belt for the first time in an international clash against former BELLATOR 135-pound titleholder and current RIZIN champion Kyoji Horiguchi (29-3) Friday, Dec. 3, on SHOWTIME at 10 p.m. ET/PT from inside the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville. Conn.

In the thrilling co-feature, former featherweight world title challenger and No. 4-ranked Emmanuel Sanchez (20-6) will take on former UFC standout and No. 9-ranked Jeremy Kennedy (16-3, 1 NC).

Also anchoring the main card will be a bantamweight showdown pitting No. 7-ranked Josh Hill (20-4) against UFC veteran Jared Scoggins (10-1), as well as undefeated American Top Team-product and No. 5-ranked middleweight Johnny Eblen (9-0) putting his unblemished record on the line against BELLATOR newcomer Collin Huckbody (10-3) who has vanquished seven of his last eight opponents.

The four-fight main card will air on SHOWTIME in the United States at 10 p.m. ET/PT. In addition, the stacked seven-bout preliminary card will stream live three hours earlier beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on the BELLATOR MMA YouTube channel, SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and Pluto TV.

Tickets for BELLATOR MMA 272 are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com and Bellator.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say on Wednesday, Dec. 1:

SERGIO PETTIS: BELLATOR MMA BANTAMWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION

“Wherever the fight goes, I will be ready. I want to go out there and dictate the pace. I don’t waste any motion or emotions out there.”

“Right now, BELLATOR is my home. I have the belt here. The main focus is Horiguchi this Friday. Once I get past that, we’ll see what happens.”

“I am in a groove right now and am on a four-fight win streak. You are really starting to see my potential. I really lacked that at the beginning of my career. I did not believe in my myself or my skill set. Right now, I believe in my skill set. My mindset is sharp, and everything is coming together.”

“I am taking myself seriously. I used to drink a lot and smoke a lot. Well, I still kind of smoke a lot, but I do not drink as much. I take myself a lot more seriously now. I am in the gym every single day. I feel like it is my time.”

“I still believe in hard sparring. We go to war in the gym. I would rather go to war in the gym than in these fights.”

“I have fallen in love with martial arts. This sport has taught me some beautiful things inside of the cage and out. It has been an awesome journey.”

“When I fought at 125 (pounds), I was definitely feeling fragile. The mentality at 125 is a lot different. It was a tough weight class for me because I walk around at about 162 or 165 (pounds). The individual I was back then wasn’t as dedicated.”

Click HERE for Pettis’ full media-day session

KYOJI HORIGUCHI: FORMER BELLATOR BANTAMWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION

“I don’t care where I fight, either in Japan or this arena (Mohegan Sun). My condition is the best right now.”

“I prepared quite well for this fight. I will win.”

“I am focusing on getting the (BELLATOR bantamweight) belt back right now.”

“I have confidence to fight with him (Sergio Pettis) regardless of whether he uses jiu-jitsu or not.”

“I don’t get nervous and don’t feel pressure. A fight is a fight.”

“Pettis is a great fighter because he has the belt right now, but I am going to get it back.”

Click HERE for Horiguchi’s full media-day session

EMMANUEL SANCHEZ: NO. 4-RANKED BELLATOR FEATHERWEIGHT

“I had to learn a lot from my fights with Patricio Pitbull and Mads Burnell. It has been difficult, but I am 100 percent focused. I am ready to showcase who I really am, what I can do, and come out with a victory this Friday night.”

“I am really excited that we have this new (BELLATOR Featherweight) Champion in AJ McKee. He is a great fighter. We were scheduled to fight a couple of years ago and it did not happen. It is the only fight that I have ever needed to pull out of, but I know I will get that chance back one day and hope he (McKee) stays on top. First and foremost is Jeremy Kennedy and then I’ll work my way back up.”

“I have seen the growth and development of Sergio (Pettis) over the years, and it’s been an amazing ride. I have been training with him since I was a teenager. I have helped him get ready for all of his fights over the years, and he has helped me get ready for mine.”

It is time to shine, baby. We are (Sanchez and Pettis) finishing up the night strong by fighting in the co-main event and main event (on Dec. 3). We’re stealing the show.”

“Sergio and I are only a weight class apart. I am always learning from him even though I am older. He is a lifelong martial artist. It is not a race or a competition, but I got my black belt in jiu-jitsu before him. We are always helping each other in every department. We are really just blood brothers going out and making it happen.”

“Jeremy (Kennedy) is great at everything. He is a tough Canuck, man. He brings it and that is what makes this such an exciting fight. It is not like he is looking to just wrestle and control on the ground, or just strike, stand, and bang. It is a little bit of everything. So that makes for an exciting fight, and we’re going to throw down.”

“Jeremy brings so much to the table. He is on the top-10 list for a reason. I see a lot of the holes that I can capitalize on. I know how and why I am going to get my hand raised on Friday night.”

Click HERE for Sanchez’s full media-day session

JEREMY KENNEDY: NO. 9-RANKED BELLATOR FEATHERWEIGHT

“My whole lifestyle has changed. I was going back and forth between Canada which was home, and Las Vegas where I trained. I got possession to my house (in Las Vegas) on April 1 and fought on April 9. For the last seven months, I have been living in the same atmosphere where I do my fight camps.”

“I have constantly been in the gym grinding day in and day out. That has completely made me a different fighter. All around, my game has just gotten so much better.”

“It was a very competitive last fight (against Adam Borics at BELLATOR MMA 256). I am the better fighter. I lost and it was a tactical error on my part. It shows what BELLATOR sees in me. They know I belong at the top of the division. I plan on running through (Emmanuel) Sanchez and see what’s next.”

“This has been the favorite year of my career. It is a super competitive division. I love all the matchups. I feel like I can compete at the top of the division.”

“Emmanuel Sanchez has been a fighter that I have followed for years, and I can’t wait to fight him now.”

“My strengths play right into his (Sanchez’s) weaknesses. He will realize quickly during these exchanges that I am different. He will have a very hard time getting me off him if the fight hits the mat.”

“My whole life is MMA. That is what I have always wanted. I finally got to that stage. Here we are in the biggest fight of my life.”

Click HERE for Kennedy’s full media-day session

Click HERE for Josh Hill’s full media-day session

Click HERE for Jared Scoggins’ full media-day session

Click HERE for Johnny Eblen’s full media-day session

Click HERE for Collin Huckbody’s full media-day session

BELLATOR MMA 272: PETTIS VS. HORIGUCHI MAIN CARD:

Friday, Dec. 3 – live on SHOWTIME

10 p.m. ET/PT 

Bantamweight World Title Bout: C-Sergio Pettis (21-5) vs. Kyoji Horiguchi (29-3)

Featherweight bout: #4-Emmanuel Sanchez (20-6) vs. #9-Jeremy Kennedy (16-3, 1 NC)

Bantamweight bout: Josh Hill (20-4) vs. Jared Scoggins (10-1)

Middleweight bout: #5-Johnny Eblen (9-0) vs. Collin Huckbody (10-3)

PRELIMINARY CARD:

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

7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT 

Lightweight bout: Alexander Shabliy (20-3) vs. Bobby King (10-3)

Featherweight bout: John de Jesus (14-9) vs. Kai Kamaka III (8-4-1)

Welterweight bout: Levan Chokheli (9-1, 1 NC) vs. Vinicius de Jesus (9-4)

Lightweight bout: Justin Montalvo (3-0) vs. Jacob Bohn (10-7)

Lightweight bout: Killys Mota (12-2) vs. Mike Hamel (8-5)

160-Pound Contract Weight bout: Dan Moret (15-6) vs. Spike Carlyle (12-3)

Welterweight bout: #10-Oliver Enkamp (10-2) vs. Kyle Crutchmer (7-1)

*Card subject to change.

Please visit Bellator.com for additional information.

****

Updated schedule of BELLATOR events

Fri. Dec. 3 // BELLATOR 272: Pettis vs. Horiguchi // Mohegan Sun Arena // Uncasville, CT

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.