ATLANTIC CITY, March 21, 2024. —  South Jersey’s own Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna will fight for the World Boxing Association (WBA) Gold Middleweight World Title against Venezuelan Johan “Chelo Manotas” Gonzalez in the main event in a twelve-round bout on Saturday, June 8 at Bally’s Atlantic City.

This World Championship Boxing Event is being promoted by Main Events in association with LaManna’s Rising Star Promotions. Ticket info will be released soon.

“I am definitely excited to fight in another world title fight I was down and out after the first try but now I’m back in the mix fighting for the WBA Gold against a very experienced opponent from Venezuela,” said LaManna. “Gonzalez rated at 154 and despite coming up to 160, he’s explosive and powerful and has a master trainer in Ismael Salas and this would be my first win against him. I made my pro debut at Bally’s and now I’m going to be fighting for a world title there and being able to accomplish both that would be amazing. Atlantic City is my backyard, so it is going to be fire that night, and on that night and I don’t think there will be anyone that can beat me.

“Working with Main Events is a real honor,” continued LaManna. “We’ve been talking about a fight like this for months, almost a year. Thankfully Main Events can see my mission and they can see my drive between fighting and promoting and I’m glad they got behind mean they are taking a chance with me and I’m looking forward to continuing with them in the future.”

“I admire Thomas for the way he has taken charge of his career and become a successful promoter in his own right,” said Kathy Duva. “Now that he has an opportunity to challenge for the world title, Main Events is happy to step in and help so LaManna can focus exclusively on preparing for the biggest fight of his career. Main Events has a long history promoting boxing in Atlantic City. And a great deal of those fights were promoted in association with Bally’s. We are looking forward to a great promotion.”

LaManna quote:

“The dream for any boxer is to become a champion, so I am very happy for this opportunity,” said Johan. “LaManna has a lot experience and very well-known boxer in the business and that means I need to work harder to get the win. This is boxing and nothing is easy in this sport.  Atlantic City is like his home, a knockout could come, but for sure we will have a great camp, training to get the W, by decision or by KO. Atlantic City is place with good boxing history, now is time to write my own.”

“Bally’s Atlantic City is thrilled for the return of boxing. We look forward to hosting this thrilling event and providing memorable experiences for boxing enthusiasts and our guests,” said Michael Monty, General Manager at Bally’s Atlantic City.

Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna (37-5, 16 KOs) born and raised in Millville, NJ, just down the road from Atlantic City, is on a seven fight win streak that propelled him onto the world stage. He is undefeated in Atlantic City, 21 wins, no losses and one draw overall and seven wins with no losses at Bally’s.  He made his professional debut in 2011 and has an impressive collection of belts, including the New Jersey State Welterweight Title, World Boxing Council (WBC) FECARBOX title, WBA Fedecentro title, WBA Fedecaribe title and the WBA Fedalatin title. He has won two titles in AC and made two successful defenses. His string of seven wins began after his 2021 world title fight defeat to Erislandy Lara.

Johan Gonzalez (34-2, 33 KOs) is a Venezuelan fighting out of Las Vegas, NV and has knocked out all but three of his thirty-six opponents. The thirty-two-year-old made his pro debut in June of 2017 and fought ten times in the first 5 months and one day of his career. He the had ten more bouts in 2018. He became Venezuelan Welterweight Champion and IBA Intercontinental Champion in 2018. In 2021, Johan won the WBA Fedalatin welterweight title in March and eight months later the WBA Fedalatin super welterweight title. In 2022 he collected the NABA Super Welterweight title with a knockout win in Panama City. His first thirty-three of his career fights took place in either Venezuela or Panama – and those three were in his last four fights.

ABOUT MAIN EVENTS

Main Events has been promoting fights in Atlantic City since 1982. Their first was a WBC light heavyweight title fight between Dwight Muhammad Qawi and Eddie Davis. Their first event at Bally’s AC was in April of ‘95 with Gatti in the co-feature of an IBF Super Featherweight World Title fight between Eddie Hopson and Moises Pedroza. Since then they have promoted bouts with many notable world champions, including Evander “Real Deal” Holyfield, Lennox Lewis, Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker, Arturo “Thunder” Gatti, Mark Breland, Meldrick Taylor, Sergei Kovalev and Dmitri Bivol. Amongst the most notable fights promoted by Main Events in Atlantic City include, “The Battle of the Ages,” Holyfield-Foreman for the World Heavyweight Championship, which was the first TVKO (HBO PPV) event; Bivol-Smith which was the last HBO fight to take place in Atlantic City, Kovalev-Hopkins—the last World Championship fight at Boardwalk Hall; Gatti-Ward II & III and Gatti-Mayweather.

ABOUT BALLY’S CORPORATION

Bally’s Corporation is a global casino-entertainment company with a growing omni-channel presence of Online Sports Betting and iGaming offerings. It currently owns and manages 16 casinos across 10 states, a golf course in New York, a horse racetrack in Colorado, and has access to OSB licenses in 18 states. It also owns Bally’s Interactive International, formerly Gamesys Group, a leading, global, online gaming operator, Bally Bet, a first-in-class sports betting platform, and Bally Casino, a growing iCasino platform. With 10,500 employees, the Company’s casino operations include approximately 15,000 slot machines, 600 table games and 5,300 hotel rooms. Upon completing the construction of a permanent casino facility in Chicago, IL, and a land-based casino near the Nittany Mall in State College, PA, Bally’s will own and/or manage 17 casinos across 11 states. Its shares trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “BALY”.

Las Vegas – UFC^® returns to UFC APEX with a pivotal rematch featuring No. 5 ranked flyweight contender Matheus Nicolau taking on No. 6 Manel Kape. In addition, hard-hitting light heavyweights No. 11 Ryan Spann and rising contender Bogdan Guskov square off in a high stakes showdown. 

UFC FIGHT NIGHT^®: NICOLAU vs. KAPE 2 takes place Saturday, April 27 in Las Vegas and will be available on ESPN+ (English and Spanish) and ESPN. The prelims will air on ESPN2, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 4 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. PT, followed by the main card airing on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT. 

UFC APEX VIP Experience packages are available via On Location, UFC’s Official VIP Experience Provider. Enjoy exclusive access with an official ticket package that includes premium seating, all-inclusive hospitality, in-seat beverage service, meet-and-greets with UFC octagon girls and more. Visit UFCVIP.com for more information.

Nicolau (19-4-1, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) looks to make the most of his first UFC main event. A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt with a strong standup game, Nicolau has earned victories over Matt Schnell, David Dvorak, and Tim Elliott. The veteran contender now aims to secure a second win against Kape and make his case for a title shot later this year.

Kape (19-6, fighting out of Phuket, Thailand by way of Porto, Portugal) returns to action looking to avenge his 2021 loss to Nicolau. The Angolan-born fighter has made waves in the 125-pound division by delivering dominant performances against Felipe dos Santos, Zhalgas Zhumagulov, and Ode’ Osbourne. Kape now looks to finish Nicolau in emphatic fashion and cement his spot in the Top 5.

Veteran Spann (19-7, fighting out of Beaumont, Texas by way of Memphis, Tenn.) sets out to remind the world why he’s among the best at 205 pounds. A dominant force for the past six years, Spann has delivered highlight finishes against Dominick Reyes, Ion Cutelaba, and Misha Cirkunov. He now hopes for another first-round finish to derail Guskov’s momentum.

Guskov (15-3 fighting out of Dukent, Uzbekistan) looks to put the division on notice by taking out a top-ranked opponent. Making just his second Octagon appearance, Guskov wowed fight fans with his first-round knockout against The Ultimate Fighter season 30 finalist Zac Pauga. Uzbekistan’s own now sets forth to secure the biggest win of his career by getting his hand raised against Spann.

Additional bouts on the card include: 

• No. 11 ranked flyweight Ariane Lipski (17-8, fighting out of Curitiba, Brazil) and No. 12 Karine Silva (17-4, fighting out of Curitiba, Brazil) go toe-to-toe in a thrilling matchup
• WelterweightsTim Means (33-15-1, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.) and Uroš Medi? (9-2, fighting out of Anchorage, Alaska by way of Novi Sad, Serbia) square off
• Joel Álvarez (20-3, fighting out of Asturias, Spain) looks to secure back-to-back wins as he takes on Dana White’s Contender Series signee Mateusz R?becki (19-1, fighting out of Szczecin, Poland) at lightweight
• Bantamweight veteran Rani Yahya (28-11-1 1 NC, fighting out of Brasilia, Brazil)collides with Dana White’s Contender Series alumnusVictor Henry (23-6, fighting out of Southgate, Calif.)
• Dana White’s Contender Series heavyweight contract winners Don’Tale Mayes (10-6 1 NC, fighting out of Louisville, Ken.) and Caio Machado (8-2-1, fighting out of Vancouver, B.C., Canada) look to steal the show
• Gabriel Benitez (23-12, fighting out of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico)takes on Maheshate (9-3, fighting out of Sichuan, China)at lightweight
• Marnic Mann (6-2, fighting out of Bozeman, Mont.) locks horns with Brazil’s Ketlen Souza (13-4, fighting out of Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil) at strawweight
• Ivana Petrovic (6-1, fighting out of Tønsberg, Norway) faces Liang Na (17-1, fighting out of Heilongjiang, China) in a flyweight tilt
• Gabe Green (11-5, fighting out of San Pedro, Calif.) welcomes Dana White’s Contender Series signee James Llontop (14-2, fighting out of Lima, Peru) to the UFC 155-pound division
• Dana White’s Contender Series heavyweight contract winners Austen Lane (12-4 1NC, fighting out of Jacksonville, Fla.) and Jhonata Diniz (6-0, fighting out of Curitiba, Brazil) are set to deliver fireworks
• The Ultimate Fighter season 31 finalist Austin Hubbard (16-6, fighting out of Denver, Colo.) clashes with Michal Figlak (8-1, fighting out of Worcester, England by way of Poznan, Poland) in an electric lightweight matchup

For the latest information on additional bouts for this event, please visit www.ufc.com. All bouts are live and subject to change. Please click?here?to apply for the event. 

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About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 700 million fans and 259 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world while broadcasting to over 975 million TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 80 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS^®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is part of TKO Group Holdings (NYSE: TKO) and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC and @UFC on X, Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok: @UFC.

About ESPN+ 

https://espnpressroom.com/us/espnplus/

About ESPN 

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

Las Vegas (March 21, 2024) – Current WBC world champion, WBA interim champion and first female undisputed super middleweight world champion Franchón Crews-Dezurn has confirmed that she will appear at the Seventh Annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday May 4, 2024 at the Las Vegas Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Expo will also coincide with the mega fight between Canelo Alvarez vs Jaime Munguia, that will take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena.

Franchón will hold a Meet & Greet with her fans at her booth during the fan event held over the Cinco De Mayo weekend. 

The Box Fan Expo is an annual fan event that coincides with some of the sports’ legendary, classic fights in Las Vegas, including Mayweather vs. Maidana II, Mayweather vs. Berto, Canelo vs. Chavez Jr., Canelo vs. GGG II, Canelo vs. Jacobs and Canelo vs. GGG III. 

Centered in boxing’s longtime home – Las Vegas – this year’s Expo is a must-do for fight fans coming in for this legendary weekend, with dozens of professional fighters, promoters, and companies involved in the boxing industry. The Expo is the largest and only Boxing Fan Expo held in the United States. http://boxfanexpo.com – @BoxFanExpo

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2024

Franchón will make her third appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and memorabilia. Franchón will also have merchandise to sell for fans to enjoy. Boxing fans will also have an opportunity to take pictures with this boxing star also known as the “The Heavy Hitting Diva”. Follow Franchón Crews-Dezurn @thehhdiva

Franchón joins Roy Jones Jr., Erik Morales, Shawn Porter, Fernando Vargas, Juan Manuel Marquez, Michael Spinks, Claressa Shields and Marco Antonio Barrera as an early commitment to this year’s Box Fan Expo, with more Boxing stars to be announced.

About Franchón Crews-Dezurn 

Historic sports figure Franchón Crews-Dezurn, is a former contestant on American Idol, 12-year member of Team USA, 15X National Champion, 5X Pan Am Gold medalist, 2X Olympic alternate and 2X world medalist. Franchón is the first US woman to qualify for the Pan American Games and one of three US women to compete in the event.

The Heavy Hitting Diva is a current world champion and the first female undisputed super middleweight champion, winning the WBC, WBA, IBF, WBO and Ring Magazine championship belts. Outside the ring, Franchón is a fashion designer that has designed clothing and boxing apparel that was featured on HBO, Showtime, DAZN and ESPN, dressing pro contender Glenn Dezurn Jr, fellow world champions Claressa Shields, Marlen Esparza and Issac Dogboe. This year, Franchón debuted “Secret Place Fashion Experience” in New York during NYFW 2024 to rave reviews. Franchón has achieved all of these great accomplishments while having her debut single “Secret Place” charting in the Top 10 on dance charts in the United Kingdom (UK). Renaissance Woman Franchón is a professional singer, songwriter, public speaker, designer and college graduate. Truly an extraordinary woman in the world of sports and entertainment. She advocates for better health, women’s empowerment, equality pay in sport and entrepreneurship.

?About Box Fan Expo

Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet the stars of boxing that represent the past, present and future of the sport. With hosted autograph signings, meet-and-greets with current and former boxing world champions, limited edition merchandise for sale, giveaways and more, this is the ultimate event for fans of the sport.

Past boxing stars that have participated include: Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Sugar Ray Leonard, Julio Cesar Chavez, Juan Manuel Marquez, Tommy Hearns, Roy Jones Jr, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, David Benavidez, Teofimo Lopez, Andre Ward, Ryan Garcia, Marcos Maidana, Devin Haney, Mikey Garcia, Errol Spence Jr, Fernando Vargas, Rolando Romero, Sergio Martinez, Tim Bradley, Jose Ramirez, Shawn Porter, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Abner Mares, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Floyd Mayweather sr., Claressa Shields, Vinny Paz, Mia St.John, Franchón Crews-Dezurn, Seniesa Estrada, Jorge Linares, Leo Santa Cruz, Badou Jack, Terry Norris, Riddick Bowe, Earnie Shavers, Michael & Leon Spinks, Brandon Rios, Anthony Dirrell, Danny Jacobs, and many more.

Exhibitors include boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry as a whole.

Throughout the next few weeks leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo.

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –

To request information on exhibiting and sponsorship at the Expo:

For media credentials:

Contact us:

Telephone number: (702) 997-1927 or (514) 572-7222

For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com

More information on Box Fan Expo visit: http://www.boxfanexpo.com

Follow Box Fan Expo on Twitter and Instagram at: @BoxFanExpo

Follow Box Fan Expo on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/BoxFanExpo

BRITISH LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPION Sam Noakes will defend his four title belts at York Hall on Saturday April 20, live on TNT Sports.

Tickets for the show on Saturday, 20 April are on sale now available from ticketmaster.co.uk.

To apply for Media Accreditation, please fill out this form. Applications close at 5pm on Friday 12 April and confirmation emails will be sent out that evening.

In co-headline action, the undefeated super lightweight Henry Turner (12-0, 4 KOs) will make a fourth defence of his WBC International Silver title against fellow unbeaten challenger Bradley Townsend (16-0, 2).

Liverpool firebrand Andrew Cain (10-1, 9), the former WBC International Silver champion at super bantamweight, makes his return from a serious hand injury in eight round action at bantamweight.

Last time out in February, Noakes (13-0, 13), from Maidstone,  added the British and WBO International titles to the WBC International Silver and Commonwealth honours already in his name with a brutal four-round destruction of the previously unbeaten Lewis Sylvester.

The knockout sequence of High Wycombe man Turner, 23, was halted back in November when he went up against the former Southern Area and English champion Billy Allington, although he prevailed comfortably on the scorecards. He now takes on an undefeated opponent in Witney’s Townsend, 28, for the first time in his professional career.

Cain, 27, had his reign of terror at bantamweight ended by Ionut Baluta a year ago in Telford. The KO-artist put the Romanian down twice in the first round only to suffer a fractured hand in the process and was ultimately subject to a highly-disputed loss on points. Extensive surgery to his hand followed that has kept him out of the ring for a prolonged period of time.

Also featuring on the card, explosive cruiserweight Aloys Jr (6-1, 6) will have his first fight over the eight-round distance and big-punching super welterweight Ben Fail (5-0, 4) will also fight over six, along with Crayford super welter Jack Olephant (1-0).

In four round action is Upminster lightweight Billy Adams (2-0), plus the professional debuts of outstanding amateur stars Joe Cooper from Sandy and Eoghan Lavin from Ballyhaunis in Ireland.

“This is another card where our elite young band of highly talented fighters get the chance to shine,” said promoter Frank Warren. “These shows are quite literally the making of our young stars and we always make sure these development cards are topped by significant title action, this time featuring Sam Noakes and Henry Turner.

“Sam continues to blaze his way through the lightweight division and he will get to make a first defence of the British title he was so happy to win late last year, while Henry is back in another defence of his WBC belt against an excellent challenger in Bradley Townsend, who gets his big chance.

“I cannot wait to see Andrew Cain back in the ring at bantamweight. I firmly believe he would be a major champion by now if it were not for the severe hand injury he sustained that affected him so much in Telford last year.

“Aloys Jr and Ben Fail will continue to thrill, I’m sure, while I am excited to launch the professional careers of elite amateur stars Joe Cooper and Eoghan Lavin, who I am delighted have chosen Queensberry to guide their careers.”

Tickets for the show on Saturday, 20 April are on sale now available from ticketmaster.co.uk.

LOS ANGELES (March 21, 2024) – Toronto’s undefeated World Boxing Association (WBA) Intercontinental Light Heavyweight Champion Kareem “Supreme” Hackett (12-0, 6 KOs) will make his first title defense March 30^th against Rowdy Legend Montgomery (10-5-1, 7 KOs) in a 10-pound match on a Golden Boy Promotions card headlined by the WBA Cruiserweight World title fight between defending champion Arsen Goulimarian and Hackett’s stablemate, former world super middleweight champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez.

All the action will be streamed live on DAZN from YouTube Theater in Los Angeles.

WBA No. 13 world-rated Hackett captured his crown last September 20^th in Plant City, Florida, when he dominated 4-1 favorite and previously undefeated Clay Waterman (11-0, 8 KOs) en route to a 10-round unanimous decision, in which he won all 10 rounds on two of the judges’’ scorecards and nine on the other judge’s.

“I would have liked to fight sooner but that’s the way this business goes,” Hackett said. “It’s harder to get fights after winning my title than it was. A lot of good has happened since my last fight. I understand. I have a title and I’m world ranked. I have a clearer path towards a world title shot. I appreciate any opportunity to get in the ring.

?“I’m getting more respect since I displayed my skills on ProBox.TV. (Announcers) Juan Manual Marguez, Paulie Malignaggi and Chris Algieri gave me a lot of props and that’s been very validating.”  

Hackett has gained invaluable experience sparring world champions such as “Zurdo” Ramirez, Dmitry Bivol, Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin, Sergio Mora, Mathew Macklin and David Benavidez.

Hackett has already established firsts by a Toronto boxer in terms of fighting on a Golden Boy Promotions card and becoming WBA Inter-Continental Light Heavyweight title holder.

“I’m a trailblazer for Toronto boxing,” promotional free agent Hackett explained with great pride. “I want to bring the first world title home, for sure, and one day the undisputed and unified titles, too, Toronto is a big city with a lot of natural talent, but I don’t know why boxing hasn’t thrived there.”

Hackett is trained by fast-rising Julian Chua at Brickhouse Boxing Club in North Hollywood (CA) and managed by 3 Point Management (3 PM).

“(Dmitry) Bivol is at the head of the light heavyweight division, and I know he’s a strong guy,” Hackett noted. “We’ve changed some things since my last fight with the end in mind. We’ve tripled down, strength-wise, for when we run into him. That’s the main change. I feel that I’m the most agile fighter in our division and I’m working on getting stronger to match my skills and ring IQ.”

In 2024, Hackett wants to add hardware and fight a top-10 ranked opponent but, at least for now, he’s happy to be in his fight with Montgomery in his second home, Los Angeles.

“I love that this fight is in LA,” Hackett concluded. “I’m comfortable in Los Angeles. I feel at home here and fighting in other places in California. I’m also excited to be fighting on a card headlined by one of my closest friends in boxing (Zurdo).”

INFORMATION:

Website: www.KareemHackett.com

Instagram, Twitter & Tik Tok: @kareemwins

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Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman:

“All we ever want as fight fans is a competitive fight card and we’ve got that on Saturday. Five fights on the TV card live on DAZN, every one of them arguably a 50-50 match-up. We’ve got a brilliant World championship fight between two of Britain’s biggest stars in female boxing as Sandy Ryan defending her WBO World title against Terri Harper who is looking to become a three-time, three-weight World champion. We have some great domestic clashes and a stunning main event between one of what I believe the future stars of not just British boxing but the world in Dalton Smith against one of the most dangerous fighters at 140lbs in Jose Zepeda. This is a huge step-up for Dalton Smith, live and exclusive worldwide on DAZN as they establish themselves as the global home of boxing.”

Alfie Sharman, VP DAZN:

“It’s great to be surrounded by these outstanding fighters and a great undercard. There’s lots of chat around Dalton and deservedly so, he’s a great prospect destined for the world stage for sure, but Saturday presents one of his toughest fights to date. Jose Zepeda is a World-level fighter and I wish the best of luck to both men. As Eddie said, DAZN are in an amazing run at the moment, Devin Haney vs. Ryan Garcia, Canelo vs. Jaime Munguia, Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk and Josh Taylor vs. Jack Catterall, plus so many other great fights every week. We’re so busy and we’re proud to be delivering this unmatched scheduled to our customers and sports fans all around the world. I’ve said many times recently, but I’ll say it again because it’s true, it’s a wonderful time to be a boxing fan and it’s great for us at DAZN to be at the heart of it.”

Dalton Smith:

“We haven’t looked at Jose as a sliding fighter, he’s only lost at World level, none of those losses have been on the way down. That’s why we took this fight and we’ve prepared for the best of Jose; he’s only interested in the biggest fights so his career is on the line in this fight and it’s a Step-up for me and the opportunity to propel my career onto the World level. 

“It’s a jump in class but you’ve seen the level that I’ve progressed through, I’ve been ready for that level for probably two fights now, so this is the perfect time for me now to propel myself and chase those bigger things. I’m confident, I’ve had one of the best camps of my career, so the fans are in for a treat in this fight.

“He’s a massive puncher, but so am I. It’s going to be one hell of a fight. I believe I’ve got the better boxing brain but, in any fight, you go into, you’ve got to be switched on, you cannot switch off as that’s how you lose in boxing, switching off for a second. So, I am switched on for 12 rounds, looking for the biggest performance so far in my career and I can’t wait to show you all.

“The WBC is one of my favourite belts and one I’ve always looked towards, it’s a big opportunity for me to move my career along and we’re pushing closer to a World title, so I can’t wait.”

Jose Zepeda:

“I am in great shape. I’ve been here before when I fought for the World championship in 2017 against Terry Flanagan. That was a bad experience, but I was happy when they told me about this fight, and thank you to Dalton’s team for the opportunity, I’m glad to take it and all I’m looking for in this fight is the fourth opportunity for a World title. Dalton is a young fighter stepping up because he wants to see if he’s at the top level, and I guess we’re going to have to see on Saturday. There’s no need to talk a lot, everyone that knows my career knows I give it my all inside the ring, so I will do the same on Saturday and I’m happy to be here and enjoying every moment.

“Everyone finds out when they step up a level. I remember when I fought Jose Ramirez, it was the first time that I boxed at the top level and in the first round, as soon as I threw the jab, I knew that I was in there on another level. I think he’s going to find out soon and I give him and his team props for jumping this high and if he believes it, well, we’re going to see on Saturday. 

“At this point in my career, I am only looking for big fights; a World title or another big fight, and if I lose this fight, I won’t get that. So, I have said that if I lose this fight, you might not see me in boxing anymore, but what I haven’t said with all honesty, this is the best camp in my entire career at 34 years old because I want to win and I want that fourth World title opportunity. There’s no need for a lot of talking, I’ve seen one of his fights, the styles are going to clash and it’s going to be an exciting fight.”

Sandy Ryan:

“I’m ready. The sacrifices, the new team, going across the pond so far away from home. Harper said yesterday that this might be the best time to catch me because I might be unsettled, if she thinks that she’s very wrong and that just shows the different mindsets that I can do this and I don’t believe that she could, she needs Stefy to hold her hand throughout the training camp. So, I got a little insight there, but I do respect her as a fighter, she does know that, but she is trying to take what’s mine and I can’t let that happen. I’ve big fights ahead if we win on Saturday, big paydays, so I can’t let her take food off my table.

“I believe I can stop her, and I believe deep down she knows that as well. If she wants to sit on the back foot, I’ll take it to her. I do what I need to do to win the fight. She’s a great fighter and I respect her, but respectfully, there will be no respect in the ring. I will dog walk her if I must to get this win, so whatever it takes believe me I have no doubt in my mind that I am going to be victorious on Saturday. 

“The sparring is kind of irrelevant, but fighters know that when you’re sparring, you do have an insight. It is different on fight night, but you do know, and deep down she knows. I don’t know about the deep waters, Harper, I don’t know when she says she’s going to take me to deep waters, explain that, come on. I was a bit shocked, but we’ll see.”

Terri Harper:

“A massive thank you to Sandy, she’s come off the controversial draw with Jessica McCaskill and she’s given me this opportunity. The carrot has been dangled in front of me and I’ve done everything I can in this camp to be in the best shape physically and mentally to go out there on Saturday night and do what I need to do to come it victorious and be a three-weight champion. 

“Even when I used to make 9st 4oz, when I got down to 10st 7oz in training, I was always having my best performances in sparring and on the pads. This camp, I’ve been able to hold at 10st 7oz just feel comfortable and really enjoy my training and not be food-focused, just focus on the one job that I am here to do. 

“I feel like in this camp I’ve had a lightbulb moment where something has just clicked. I know everyone says it, but I really have been having the best spars of my career. As an athlete I always get myself in the best physical shape possible but one thing I’ve always neglected from the beginning of my career is the mental side of things. I keep joking that I’ve read four books and it’s completely changed my life, just how I view my boxing career and my personal life. I feel like I am a much more positive person to be around, and I’ve got a lot more self-belief and I’m quietly confident that I am going to get the job done on Saturday night and I’m very confident that it will be a career-best performance. 

“I remember when Stefy told me we had some sparring with Sandy I thought ‘oh my god’. Obviously, I used to look up at Sandy as this superhuman, but I can remember the first time I got in the ring with her, I think that’s when it really clicked that I am a great fighter, and I can hold my own against the top-level fighters. I came away from those spars with so much confidence, that was a couple of years back now, I’ve been in the gym, improving constantly and I’m just excited to get back in there at this new weight and take this opportunity that’s in front of me and get a good win for everyone that’s coming to support me.

“She’s taken the deep waters comment a lot deeper than what it is. I am her toughest opponent to date and I’m going to make her answer a lot of questions in that ring, that’s all. The fact it’s triggered her so much, that little comment, that screams as insecure. The fact you’ve gone onto socials to get that reassurance at all times, you just need to focus on your training and yourself, and just chill out because it’s not that deep.”

Ishmael Davis:

“I respect Troy. He’s my boy. But for 12 rounds we’re going to go to war, and I just feel that I am a better boxer and it’s going to be a sick fight. You need to put a KO bonus up because there’s going to be one, I tell you. From the sparring, like he said, it’s been nothing but fireworks, people would pay to watch them, but it’s a long time since we sparred and I haven’t left the gym, so I am looking to put on a good show and prove my worth. 

“Boxing is not just about engine; you need a brain as well and that’s what I’ll be using on Saturday. I’ve got the engine anyway, that’s standard, every boxer should be fit and I’m always in the gym, so if we need to go into deep waters, I’ll be ready to go into deep waters for 12 rounds.

“There’s only one winner and that’s me.”

Troy Williamson:

“Fireworks. I respect Ishmael, I respect his team, we’re very similar people I think outside the ring, we’re family men and we train hard and dedicate our lives to the sport. On Saturday night we put friendship aside and get down to business. 

“I’ve lost twice in 23 fights to two elite fighters in Josh Kelly and Caoimhin Agyarko. Due to no fault of my own I’ve picked up injuries which is unfortunate but we’re in a professional sport where that happens. Last time out I was boxing well, momentum was going my way, it felt like he was very uncomfortable in there but my shoulder subluxed in round five. I’ve never publicly mentioned it because I don’t think I need to, but that fight should have been won, so I take a lot of confidence from that because I felt great, felt fit and strong but was unlucky on the night. We’re here again and I’ll feel fit and strong again, and I’ll be on the road again to becoming a two-time British champion.

“I’ve proven that I can go to the deep waters, he hasn’t yet. Going off the sparring, I know he’s a warrior like me. Everyone is in for a treat, it’s going to be a great fight, I know how tough he is, how slick he is, but I believe the best of me beats the best of him and I’ll show that on Saturday night.”

Campbell Hatton:

“We’ve had the learning fights; it’s fight 15 now and I think it’s the perfect time. It’s a fight I’m more than ready for, I’ve prepared well, it’s my first title fight and any fighter in this position would say that you get that little more out of yourself. It’s been a grueling few weeks and on Saturday night it’s all going to be worth it.

“I think it’ll bring their bets out of me; I’m expecting a good fight, we’ve got a good clash of styles where I think we are both going to come to have it. I think it could be the fight of the night, and I’m expecting a tough fight, I’ve prepared for a tough fight, but I think it will bring out the best version of Campbell Hatton.

“This is what we want and what we expect. He’s coming in as the champion, I wouldn’t expect anything lees and I hope he comes into the ring with the same energy.”

James Flint:

“I’ve known about this fight for a long time. Campbell says he knows he’s in for a hard fight and I’m glad you do mate, because I am going to give you the hardest night of your life, from start to finish, I’ll be there. I’m ready for it.

“I’m not going to throw him under the bus, criticism in boxing is hard enough, but on Saturday night I will prove the critics right. People are forgetting that I’m the champion and I’m here through hard work, dedication, and determination. He may have had the silver spoon because of who his Dad is, but I haven’t, I’ve been force fed with a shovel and I’m here to prove what I can do.

“I’m not going to sell over 400 tickets to come and roll over. I’m here to fight and I am here to stay – and still.”

Nico Leivars:

“I’m looking forward to it. With it being an eliminator for the English title there’s a carrot being dangled, but I can’t overlook Saturday night. I’ve got a job to do with a good opponent in front of me, but we’ve prepared well in the gym and we’re ready for anything.

“I’m more than ready for the ten rounds. We’ve been doing the rounds in the gym, sparring 12 rounds on some days, so we’re ready for ten if it needs to come to that.”

Piotr Mirga:

“I’ve set myself the goal to win the English title this year and the first step is on Saturday and I can’t wait.  I’m ready for Saturday and I’m just going to get the job done.”

Leli Buttigieg:

“I’m ready for fight number three, I’m staying active, smashing it in the gym, sparring well, so the fights to keep me progressing is what I need.

“I’m on a row – 2-0, it was good to get the four rounds in last time, we’re stepping up to six rounds and you’ll see an even better version of me, and we’ll break this guy down on Saturday.”

Connan Murray:

“It’s amazing to get this opportunity. You rang up and said that you were looking for a good-looking, bald-headed lad to fight on the show but you couldn’t find anyone so here I am!

“Everyone has been training really hard and smashing it in the gym, so we’re looking forward to getting three wins for the Stefy Bull gym.”

Liam Cameron:

“I’ve done about 200 tickets on two weeks’ notice, so I am just buzzing to be here to be honest. I’ve been training hard so let’s get the KO.

“I want the British title at Super-Middleweight. I’ll fight anyone. I’ll just keep chipping away and see where it takes me.”

PHILADELPHIA, PA (March 21, 2024) On Thursday, April 18, DiBella Entertainment’s acclaimed Broadway Boxing will make its debut in Philadelphia, PA, at the 2300 Arena. The 121st edition of the longest-running grassroots boxing series will be headlined by heavyweight contender “Gentleman” George Arias squaring off against the undefeated Skylar Lacy.

Tickets for Broadway Boxing are on sale now and can be purchased via www.2300arena.com (click HERE) or by calling (267) 273-0945. Tickets are priced at $150.00 for VIP Ringside, $125.00 Premium Ringside, $100 Ringside, $60 for General Admission seating and $45 for Standing Room Only. The 2300 Arena is located at 2300 S Swanson Street, Philadelphia, PA 19148. Doors will open on the night of the event at 6:00 PM ET, with the first bout scheduled for 7:30 PM ET.

“I’ve wanted to bring Broadway Boxing to Philadelphia for a long time and I’m thrilled to debut the series at the 2300 Arena, where I know we will have a raucous, passionate crowd,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “The heavyweight division remains in flux and is ripe with opportunities to break through. This card will feature two exciting and meaningful heavyweight clashes with contender George Arias making his ring return against an undefeated Skylar Lacy and rising undefeated prospect Roney Hines taking on his toughest assignment in the crafty and experienced Robert Hall Jr. Also, several popular Philadelphia prospects will populate the card, including the hard-hitting, superbly talented Tahmir Smalls as well as Erron Peterson and Romuel Cruz, both undefeated and under the guidance of boxing sage Breadman Edwards. Kestna Davis, a fighter advised by Lennox Lewis, and unbeaten female featherweight contender Tiara Brown will also compete.”

Dominican George Arias (18-1, 7 KOs), a New York Golden Gloves champion based out of The Bronx, NY, will face his ninth undefeated adversary when he meets Skylar Lacy (8-0-1, 6 KOs), of Indianapolis, IN, in the eight-round main event. Arias is coming off of a spirited battle against top-rated Jared Anderson last year. The six-foot-tall Arias will be giving up a significant height advantage to Lacy at six-foot-seven, though, he has shown he is very capable of dismantling a much taller foe. In December 2021, Arias upset the previously undefeated six-foot-six Cassius Chaney on points, outboxing him with fast hands and deft footwork. Lacy is coming off of a second-round stoppage victory against Hector Coronado on March 16 in Mexico.

“I am excited to get back in the ring. I’ve always believed that, as a fighter, one should be able to take risk and dare to be great. My last performance against Jared Anderson was exactly what I needed to understand that more is required of me,” said Arias. “I have been working tirelessly in the gym to perfect my flaws and my style. I am very thankful to my promoter, Lou DiBella, for believing in me and allowing me to develop. I can’t wait to begin a new chapter as a more mature and disciplined fighter on his way to becoming the first Dominican heavyweight champion of the world.”

The card will also feature a high-powered heavyweight clash between Cleveland’s Roney Hines and Johnson City, TN, native Robert Hall Jr., scheduled for eight rounds. The fight is a step-up for Hines (13-0-1, 8 KOs), who trains with veteran trainer Eric Brown in Los Angeles and is co-managed by Robert Diaz and Sheer Sports. He is coming off of a unanimous decision win against Jonathan Gruber last November. The 28-year-old Hines had an extensive amateur career that included over 90 fights and a win at the National Golden Gloves, before making his professional debut in July 2018. Hall Jr. (14-2, 11 KOs), a former WBC USNBC titlist, last entered the ring in September, when he faced contender Jerry Forrest, losing a unanimous decision over eight rounds.

“I’m going to show out,” said Hines of the contest. “I’m not worried about who’s in front of me. They have to deal with me. I was born to fight. You get up and brush your teeth, I get up and box. I just want to be the best.”

Undefeated 24-year-old Philadelphia welterweight Tahmir Smalls (11-0, 8 KOs) will take on Ezequiel Victor Fernandez (29-7-1, 3 KO’s), of San Juan, Argentina, in an eight-round bout. Smalls is a familiar face at the 2300 Arena, having previously fought there five times. With his father, Lawrence Smalls, as his trainer and a former amateur boxer himself, Tahmir has been around the sweet science all of his life and began competing at the age of eight. After winning the Pennsylvania Golden Gloves tournament, Smalls turned pro in September 2019. He trains out of Philly’s Next Champ boxing gym, also known as Bozy’s Dungeon, where Derrick “Bozy” Ennis trains his son, IBF welterweight world champion Jaron “Boots” Ennis.

Two unbeaten prospects trained by Stephen “Breadman” Edwards out of James Shuler Memorial Gym in West Philadelphia will appear on the undercard in separate bouts. Six-foot-tall middleweight southpaw Erron “JYD” Peterson (5-0-1, 4 KOs) was an All-City linebacker in high school before turning his full attention to boxing at the age of 21. Following a brief-but-successful amateur campaign, Peterson, managed by his father Salah, turned pro in July 2022. Junior featherweight Romuel “Cuco” Cruz (10-0-1, 4 KOs), promoted by Hard Hitting Promotions, was born in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, but moved to Philadelphia, PA, as a toddler. He began boxing as a teenager and has been under Edwards’ tutelage since his pro debut in December 2017.

Jamaican super welterweight southpaw Kestna “Hardball” Davis (5-0), based out of Vauxhall, NJ, will box in a four-round bout. He is advised by former undisputed heavyweight world champion Lennox Lewis. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Davis moved to the U.S. in 2018. Davis has been mentored by the former world champion since they met in July 2016 through the Lennox Lewis League of Champions Foundation.

“I’m looking forward to seeing Kestna in the ring. He’s been training hard after a while out, so it will be good to see how the work is paying off,” said Lewis.

Featherweight contender Tiara Brown (16-0, 11 KOs), of Lehigh Acres, FL, will compete in a six-round contest. Before moving back to Florida, where she was raised, to fully focus on her boxing career, Brown had been a police officer in Washington D.C., for nearly six years. She was once honored as the Police Officer of the Year by the Metropolitan Police Department of D.C. Brown will be fighting in the U.S. for the first time since 2019. She is coming off of a first-round stoppage victory against Angi Romero on February 17 in Colombia.

Additional information on the event will be announced shortly.

DiBella Entertainment

Instagram: @DiBellaEnt

Twitter: @LouDiBella, @DiBellaEnt

Facebook: @DiBellaEntertainment

RZESZOW, POLAND (March 21, 2024) – Lawrence Okolie will challenge Lukasz Rozanski for the WBC World Bridgerweight Championship on Friday, May 24th at the Podpromie Arena in Rzeszow, Poland, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland.

The former British, Commonwealth, European and WBO World Cruiserweight king makes his long awaited return to the ring as he bids to become a two-weight world ruler by taking on the undefeated Rozanski in the champion’s backyard.

Rozanski, who boasts a frightening knockout ratio with fourteen of his fifteen victories coming inside the distance, will be bringing big-time boxing back to Rzeszow having claimed the WBC Bridgerweight belt with a ferocious first-round stoppage win over the previously unbeaten Alen Babic in front of his home fans in April last year.

Okolie, the 31-year-old from Hackney, who represented Team GB at the 2016 Rio Olympics, first captured world honours in March 2021 with a knockout win over Rozanski’s countryman Krzysztof Glowacki.

‘The Sauce’ moves up in weight for his first professional bout above the 200lbs limit following a majority decision loss against former stablemate Chris Billam-Smith in an epic world title showdown in May 2023 at the Vitality Stadium in Bournemouth.

Lawrence Okolie said: “I’m excited to go to Poland and test myself yet again on away ground. Rozanski is a good champion, with an explosive style, but I’m coming to do some serious damage. He has never seen power like mine.”

Lukasz Rozanski said: “I’m defending my World Title in my own backyard, in my city, fighting against a former World Champion. It’s a fantastic fight, for moments like these, I’ve trained hard all my life.”

The WBC Bridgerweight World Title fight between Lukasz Rozanski and Lawrence Okolie will be the second event co-promoted by BOXXER and Knockout Promotions following a successful collaboration in April 2023.

BOXXER CEO and Founder Ben Shalom said: “We’re excited to be returning to Poland and working once again with our friends at Knockout Promotions for what promises to be another spectacular night of boxing. I was ringside to watch Rozanki beat Babic inside a round to claim the WBC Bridgerweight World Title so I know Lawrence will need to be at his best to bring the belt back to the UK. I believe at this heavier weight we will see the best and most destructive version of Lawrence Okolie.”

Andrew Wasilewski for Knockout Promotions said:  “I’m delighted that Knockout Promotions will be organizing another gala in cooperation with our English colleagues from BOXXER. We had hoped that last year’s gala would be the beginning of further collaboration, and it is happening. We are thrilled and can’t wait.”

This event is presented in association with official partner Integritas Property Group.

ALL THE WEIGHTS and photos from the weigh-in ahead of Chris Bourke vs Ashley Lane on Friday night at York Hall, Bethnal Green, live on TNT Sports:

The vacant British and Commonwealth Bantamweight Championships, 12×3 Minute Rounds
Chris Bourke – 117lbs 4oz
Ashley Lane – 117lbs 14oz

The WBC International Light-Heavyweight Championship, 10×3 Minute Rounds
Willy Hutchinson – 174lbs 10oz
Martin Houben – 173lbs 5oz

8×3 Minute Heavyweight Contest
Moses Itauma – 241lbs 30z
Dan Garber – 262lbs 10oz

8×3 Minute International Super-Featherweight Contest
Royston Barney-Smith – 132lbs 12oz
Jose Manuel Perez – 131lbs 5oz

6×3 Minute International Welterweight Contest
Sean Noakes – 151lbs 13oz
Marian Wesolowski – 149lbs 10oz

6×3 Minute International Super-Welterweight Contest
Sonny Liston-Ali – 152lbs 6oz
Petar Aleksandrov – 153lbs 15oz

6×3 Minute International Super-Lightweight Contest
Luke McCormack – 144lbs 12oz
Robin Zamora -145lbs

4×3 Minute International Cruiserweight Contest
Iman Zamatkesh – 202lbs 14oz
Pawel Stykkowski – 201lbs 7oz

CHATTANOOGA, TN (March 21, 2024) – Undefeated welterweight Avious “Tha Underdog” Griffin, hailing from the vibrant city of Chattanooga, Tennessee, is gearing up for the most significant bout of his career as he steps into the ring under the expert guidance of Brian ‘BoMac’ McIntyre, Ring Magazine’s 2023 Trainer of the Year.

The event, promoted by OTX (Overtime Boxing), whose motto is “About That ACTION,” will be broadcast live internationally on DAZN. The 8-round bout is scheduled for April 19, 2024, at the prestigious OTE Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. OTX promises an evening filled with great matchups and nonstop action.

Griffin, with an unblemished record of (13-0, 12 KOs), is about to face his first undefeated fighter to date in his televised debut. His adversary is the unbeaten slugger from Colombia, Jose Vargas Quintana (9-0, 7 KOs), who poses a daunting challenge that Griffin must overcome in the ring. This by far is the most dangerous opponent Griffin will be facing.

Fresh off his arrival in Omaha, Nebraska, where he’s putting the finishing touches on his training camp alongside the legendary “BoMac”, Griffin shares his thoughts on what promises to be his most thrilling bout yet as a professional boxer.

“Making my debut on DAZN is a fighter’s dream come true, but for me it’s just another fight. I been fighting my whole life, now more people get to witness it” said Griffin, who goes by the nickname “Tha Underdog” after dealing with immense adversity having been falsely incarcerated. “It’s an honor to showcase my talent to the world, especially on an international platform with my new coach “Bo Mac” by my side. I can’t wait to give fans an unforgettable performance. I’m grateful for the opportunity Overtime and DAZN are giving me.”

“Avious is a special fighter, he has it all…skill, boxing IQ, speed, athleticism, charisma, and devastating power. I have no doubt he will rise to the occasion,” manager Brandon Stump, President of CTB Athletics, stated on Griffin’s upcoming fight. “This fight against Quintana is the step up in competition you can surely expect to see moving forward and with BoMac in his corner, I believe we’re on the cusp of witnessing something truly special for many years to come.”

It’s finally time to secure your tickets to see Olympic Gold Medallist Lauren Price MBE challenge Jessica McCaskill for the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Titles on Saturday, May 11th at the Utilita Arena in Cardiff.

Over 50% of all tickets were sold in pre-sale yesterday proving this is certainly an eagerly anticipated fight night and homecoming for Wales’s own Lauren Price.

Tickets are available via the link below from 10am today (Thurs 21st March) and you can join the queue now to be amongst the first in line.
CLICK HERE TO SECURE TICKETS
Ticket prices: £200 / £125 / £80 / £60 / £40

McCaskill vs Price will top an action-packed fight card in Cardiff with undercard fights to be announced very soon.

We’re expecting tickets for this event to be in high demand so we recommend you register and buy your tickets as soon as they become available.

NEW YORK (March 20, 2024) — PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, returns to the ring when it live streams to boxing fans, in the U.S. and Canada, an action-packed  four-bout card, featuring the 12-round junior middleweight world title tilt between undefeated WBO junior middleweight world champion Tim Tszyu (24-0, 17 KOs), a native of Sydney, Australia, and No. 3 world-rated contender Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora (20-1-1, 13 KOs), from Coachella, California, Saturday, March 30, beginning at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT.  The co-main event will have WBA super lightweight world champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero (15-1, 13 KOs), from Las Vegas, making his first title defense, against Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz (25-2-1, 17 KOs), from Mexico City. The Tszyu – Fundora / Rolly – Pitbull championship event will emanate live from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.  Priced at $69.99, it can be ordered by clicking here PPV.COM | Tszyu vs. Fundora.   

The PPV.COM Tszyu – Fundora world championship event live stream will once again feature Hall of Fame broadcaster Jim Lampley, who will be paired with award-winning journalist Lance Pugmire, co-hosting an exclusive viewer chat in real time.  Jim and Lance will be joined in the chat by “Inside Boxing Live” podcast hosts Dan Canobbio and Chris Algieri.  Jim, Lance, Dan, and Chris will also be providing exclusive fight week commentary and reports from Las Vegas for PPV.COM‘s website and social platforms.

Canobbioand Algieri will be bringing their popular Inside Boxing Livepodcast to PPV.COM, where they will produce two fresh episodes weekly, provide onsite coverage during major pay-per-view fight weeks, host their own weekly live chat every Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET, and join fight night live viewer chats.  For the latest episodes of Inside Boxing Live presented by PPV.COM, click hereInside Boxing Live – YouTube.

“Obviously the near-last minute switch from Keith Thurman to Sebastian Fundora renders some of the style specifics of Tim Tszyu’s preparation null or inappropriate,” said Lampley.  “Fundora is physically different, stylistically different, generationally different and competitively different than Keith Thurman.  So now it’s a new fight for Tszyu with a week and a half to adjust.  He’s still a heavy favorite, and he’ll have to accept that he gets less credit for the win in what may well be a tougher fight.  But that’s boxing.  Some memorable upsets have emerged from circumstances like this, but they are memorable because they are so rare.  There’s no logical reason yet to see this as less than perfunctory for Tim Tszyu.”       

PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, will offer Tszyu vs. Fundora in the U.S. and Canada.  iNDEMAND, the parent company of PPV.COM, will also be carrying the event through its network of cable and telco operators in the U.S. and Canada via providers including: Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Optimum, Fios, Rogers, Bell, SaskTel, and Telus, among others.

JIM LAMPLEY

Jim is a recipient of the Boxing Writers Association of America’s (BWAA) Sam Taub Award for Excellence in Broadcasting Journalism and was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in its 2015 class.  He served as anchor and commentator for “HBO World Championship Boxing” for 30 years and has covered numerous Olympic Games during his long and distinguished career in sports broadcasting.      

LANCE PUGMIRE

Lance is a recipient of the Nat Fleischer Award for Excellence in Boxing Journalism, the BWAA’s highest honor.  He brings over 30 years of experience covering the sweet science for the Los Angeles Times, The Athletic, and USA Today.  He currently serves as senior U.S. writer for BoxingScene.com.

About iNDEMAND and PPV.COM

iNDEMAND is an innovative partnership among three of the leading cable companies in the U.S.– Charter Communications, Comcast Cable, and Cox Communications. iNDEMAND is a company of trusted content aggregators and licensing experts, with unparalleled technical expertise and long-standing relationships with MVPDs, major sports leagues, Hollywood studios, and other entertainment and sports companies across North America. iNDEMAND delivers great content to more than 60 million cable homes and has distribution deals with more than 90 companies.  In December 2021, iNDEMAND launched PPV.COM, an innovative streaming PPV service and the first of its kind to offer interactive fan engagement during live-action sports.  With the addition of PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, to its existing cable PPV infrastructure, iNDEMAND has consolidated all forms of PPV distribution under one roof, making the company the only provider of turn-key PPV solutions for both industry partners and consumers.  For more information, go to indemand.com.

Terri Harper believes winning a World Title in a third weight category would cement her name amongst the elite fighters in women’s boxing.

The 27-year-old from Denaby Main returns to the arena where she won her first World Title back in 2020 to take on Derby’s reigning WBO Welterweight World Champion Sandy Ryan in a huge battle of Britain tis Saturday – live worldwide on DAZN.

‘Belter’, who currently holds the WBA Super-Welterweight World Title, is aiming to return to winning ways in front of her home crowd after a frustrating draw with modern great Cecilia Braekhus on the massive Leigh Wood vs. Josh Warrington card last October.

“I’ve got a chance to become a three-weight World Champion and what better place to do that than in front of my home crowd?” said Harper. “They were there when I became World Champion against Eva Wahlstrom and hopefully they’ll be there when I become a three weight World Champion against Sandy Ryan.

“This is the fight that I’ve wanted for years. It’s a big domestic fight and I’m just keeping that in the back of my head. I’m an experienced championship fighter now and I can only use it to my advantage. Win this fight and it opens up many doors and really sets me up there with the elite.

“This is a must-win fight for us both. I feel like it’s come at the point in both of our careers where it’ll open up those doors and lead to meg fights. So, we’re both hungry and we really both want the win. For me now, I do want the big fights. I feel like they’re going to fetch out the best performances in me.”

Ryan steps into the ring for the very first time with her new training team this Saturday after parting ways with her long term trainer Clifton Mitchell at the back end of 2023 following her controversial draw with Jessica McCaskill, and Harper (14-1-2, 6 KOs) says now is the perfect time to face the former Team GB standout.

“If I were to choose a time to fight Sandy it would be now,” said Harper. “Obviously she’s had the split with Clifton and she’s gone over to Vegas and got a new team around her. I feel like this is the first fight with that team so I know how I’d feel if I was getting in the ring with a new team and not Andrew (Bullcroft). Like I said, I feel this is the perfect time and opportunity to fight Sandy.

“Sandy moving over to Vegas obviously shows dedication to the sport. I feel like she’s coming away from all of the distractions over here and going out there and focusing on her training. It’s a commitment. I take my hat off to her to be going out there and really putting everything on the line for this fight.

“I feel like Sandy is obviously well-schooled, she’s come from the Team GB background and stuff like that. She’s got good stoppages with body shots and stuff so I’ve just got to be aware of that on the night and really just focus on myself and what I can bring to the fight.

“I just know how the spars went. If the fight goes that way it’s going to be an exciting fight for the fans. I know I’m going to take Sandy into deep waters, I’m going to make her ask a lot of questions. If the best version of myself turns up on the night then I beat Sandy comfortably and I see my hand being raised; And The New.”

Ryan vs. Harper is part of a huge night of action in Sheffield, the Steel City’s fast-rising Super-Lightweight contender Dalton Smith (15-0, 11 KOs) steps up against the USA’s three-time World Title challenger Jose Zepeda ( 37-4, 28 KOs) for the WBC Silver Title, it’s Leeds against Darlington as Ishmael Davis (12-0, 6 KOs) and TroyWilliamson (20-2-1, 14 KOs) meet in a Final Eliminator for the British Super-Welterweight Title,  Hyde’s Campbell Hatton (14-0, 5 KOs) goes for his first title when he meets Doncaster’s James Flint (13-1-2, 3 KOs) for the Central Area Super-Lightweight Title, Mansfield’s Nico Leivars (5-0-1) takes on Southend’s Piotr Mirga (7-2) in a Final Eliminator for the English Bantamweight Title, Sheffield Light-Heavyweight Liam Cameron (22-5, 9 KOs) returns after his first-round win over Harry Matthews last month, Newham Super-Welterweight prospect Leli Buttigieg (2-0, 1 KO) fights for the second time this year and Cusworth Middleweight Connan Murray (6-0, 1 KO) kicks off the Before The Bell action. 

RIVERSIDE, Calif. (March 20, 2024) — Mexican Olympian Lindolfo Delgado is ready to enter the junior welterweight title picture.

Delgado will return in a 10-rounder against compatriot Carlos “El Tiburon” Sanchez on Friday, March 29 at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona. Delgado-Sanchez will be featured on the undercard of the 12-round junior lightweight main event between former two-weight world champion Oscar Valdez and one-time world title challenger Liam Wilson.

In the co-feature, WBC/WBA/Ring Magazine champion Seniesa “Super Bad” Estrada and WBO/IBF ruler Yokasta Valle will collide in a highly anticipated showdown for the undisputed minimumweight crown.

Valdez-Wilson & Estrada-Valle headline a stacked card streaming live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+. Promoted by Top Rank, in association with No Limit Boxing, tickets are on sale now via Ticketmaster.com.

Delgado (19-0, 14 KOs) transitioned from prospect to contender in August 2022 with an upset decision win over then-unbeaten knockout artist Omar Aguilar. Delgado continued his momentum in 2023, with points victories over Clarence Booth in February and Jair Valtierra in August. He then blasted out Luis Hernandez in four rounds in November. The Booth and Valtierra fights took place at Desert Diamond Arena, where Delgado aims to shine once more. Sanchez (25-2, 19 KOs) is a former amateur standout from Mexico whose only setbacks have been to Pedro Campa and Steve Claggett. Sanchez, who used to train and spar with Delgado, heads into this assignment coming off a decision over Carlos Diaz in December.

Following a recent training session at Robert Garcia Boxing Academy, this is what Delgado had to say:

“Carlos Sanchez is a very good fighter. I’ve known him since we were kids because he would fight in the national Olympics as well. He’s a strong fighter. I remember a lot about him because we used to train together. And we used to spar together. The sparring was really good. It was always competitive. You never knew who would come out on top in our sparring. So, I think it’s going to be a really good fight.” 

“I’ve been working on myself. Like in every fight, I always try to improve myself. I don’t focus too much on my opponents. I try to improve anything I feel that needs work. So I’m working on moving in the ring better, moving my waist, and connecting punches with more power and with more accuracy.”

“Fans can expect a really good fight like always. You’re going to see a Lindolfo Delgado who is very prepared and concentrated. We’re working very hard. And I want to look better in every fight, so if I looked good in my last fight, I’m going to look even better in this one!”

Top Rank Boxing on ESPN presented by AutoZone: Valdez vs. Wilson/Estrada vs. Valle will be presented live Friday, March 29, at approximately 11 p.m. ET/ 8 p.m. PT exclusively on ESPN+. The event takes place at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona.

In the 12-round junior lightweight main event, Mexican warrior Oscar Valdez will face Australian former world title challenger Liam Wilson.

Valdez (31-2, 23 KOs), the fighting pride of Nogales, represented Mexico at the 2008 and 2012 Olympics. As a pro, he won world titles in two weight classes. After a competitive fight against Olympic gold medalist Robson Conceição in 2021, Valdez suffered his first pro loss in a unification battle against Shakur Stevenson in 2022. He bounced back with a decision victory in a rematch against Adam Lopez in May 2023 before suffering a points loss against Emanuel Navarrete last August.

Wilson (13-2, 7 KOs) is a five-year pro who made his U.S. debut versus Navarrete for the vacant WBO junior lightweight title last February. Wilson dropped Navarrete and almost scored the upset in the fourth round before being stopped in the ninth. He rebounded with triumphs over Carlos Alanis last August and Jackson Jon England in December.

In the co-feature, WBC/WBA/Ring Magazine champion Seniesa “Super Bad” Estrada and WBO/IBF ruler Yokasta Valle will collide in a highly anticipated showdown to crown the first-ever undisputed minimumweight champion.

Estrada (25-0, 9 KOs) is a 13-year pro and two-weight world champion. She signed with Top Rank in 2022 and shut out Jazmin Gala Villarino in November of that year. In 2023, she picked up the WBC strap against the previously unbeaten Tina Rupprecht in March and retained her unified titles with a points verdict over Leonela Yudica in July.

Valle (30-2, 9 KOs) seized the vacant IBF atomweight world title by overcoming Ana Victoria Polo in 2016. After an unsuccessful bid for the WBO light flyweight title against Naoko Fujioka in 2017 and an interim title loss to Rupprecht in 2018, she snatched the IBF minimumweight world title from Joana Pastrana in 2019. Valle added the WBO title to her collection with a win over Thi Thu Nhi Nguyen in 2022 and has since defended her unified crown four times, including a decision over Anabel Ortiz in November.

Undercard action begins at 6:10 p.m. ET/ 3:10 p.m. PT.

Calling the action will be Hall of Famer, Timothy Bradley, Jr., Mark Kriegel, and Bernardo Osuna.

Original Program: Talk That Talk” Seniesa vs. Valle

Ahead of the blockbuster Top Rank event on March 29, ESPN will air the original program: Talk That Talk: Seniesa vs. Valle. Hosted by Crystina Poncher, the 30-minute all-access preview debuts ahead of one of the most heated world title bouts of the year. Fight fans will hear both athletes sound off in a verbal war ahead of the Undisputed Minimumweight Championship between undefeated WBA/WBC/Ring Magazine champion Seniesa Estrada (25-0, 9 KOs) and unified IBF/WBO queen Yokasta Valle (30-2, 9 KOs). A two-division world champion proudly representing East Los Angeles, Seniesa “Super Bad” Estrada is aiming to deliver the undisputed world title to her Mexican-American fans while Valle, the three-division world titlist from Costa Rica, is seeking to extend her winning streak to 18.

Talk That Talk: Seniesa vs. Valle (All Times ET)

Date
Network
Time
Sat., Mar 23
ESPN2
6:30 a.m.
Sun., Mar 24
ESPN2
6:00 a.m.
Mon., Mar 25

ESPN2
1:30 a.m.
Thu., Mar 28

ESPNEWS
12:00 a.m.
3:00 a.m.
Fri., Mar 29

ESPN2
2:00 a.m.
ESPNEWS
9:30 a.m.
*Also available for On-Demand Replay in the ESPN App

ESPN+: On Demand Shows, Archives & Premium Articles

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Valdez vs. Wilson(All Times ET)

Date
Time
Event
Fights
Title
Platform
Wed. Mar 27
4:00 p.m.

Main Card Press Conference

ESPN+

Thu. Mar 28
4:00 p.m.

Weigh-in

Fri. Mar 29
11:00 p.m.
(estimated time)

Main

Oscar Valdez vs. Liam Wilson

Co-Feature
Seniesa Estrada (C) vs. Yokasta Valle (C) (Undisputed) WBA/WBC, IBF/WBO Minimumweight
6:10 p.m.
Feature
Raymond Muratalla vs. Xolisani Ndongeni

Undercard
Lindolfo Delgado vs. Carlos Sanchez
Undercard
Richard Torrez Jr. vs. Don Haynesworth
Undercard
Sergio Rodriguez vs. Sanny Duversonne
Undercard
Emiliano Fernando Vargas vs. Nelson Hampton
Undercard
Alan Garcia vs. Gonzalo Fuenzalida
Undercard
Art Barrera Jr. vs. Keven Soto
Undercard
Ricardo Ruvalcaba vs. Avner Hernandez Molina

Sampson Boxing proudly announces the signing of streaking welterweight prospect Nicklaus “La Bestia” Flaz to a promotional contract.

Since suffering his second career defeat, a shock first-round knockout in October 2020, Flaz (12-2, 8 KOs), from Vega Alta, Puerto Rico, has gone on a tear, scoring three impressive upset victories; knocking out an established durable veteran and taking the undefeated 0 records from two promising up-and-comers along the way.

The 28-year-old Flaz started his remarkable winning streak by scoring a majority eight-round decision over then 13-0 Brian Ceballo in October 2022. Next came another eight-round majority decision over then 10-0 Jahi Tucker in July 2023.

But Flaz really got the boxing world talking last Wednesday (March 13) by becoming the first to knock out capable veteran Luke Santamaria in the co-main event of a globally streamed ProBoxTV event in Plant City, Florida.

Santamaria had previously beaten the likes of then 22-1 Mykal Fox, former world champion Devon Alexander and held the WBC Continental Americas Welterweight Championship with a victory over former world-title challenger Abel Ramos in February 2022.

Looking like a reborn version of himself, Flaz used his power and speed to drop Santamaria three times before getting the sixth-round stoppage.

Flaz, who started boxing at age 16 and won 88 of his 95 amateur fights including two consecutive national titles, says he’s finally got everything he needs in place to become a serious player in the stacked 147-lb division.

“I feel great,” said Flaz of signing with Lewkowicz. “He was the promoter I wanted from the start of my career. He can take me to the next level and keep me as active as I need to be to be at my best.”

Flaz adds that since losing by KO (to Janelson Bocachica), he has rededicated himself to training with head trainer David Oyola and assistant trainer/manager Belvin García in his native Puerto Rico and made tremendous gains in every aspect of his game. The hard work was on full display against Santamaria, as Flaz dictated every aspect of the fight against a tough and well-respected veteran.

“I don’t feel like boxing is a job,” said the confident Flaz. “It’s my passion and I love it. I’m ready to start climbing the rankings and get to the world championship and I have the team in place to do it.

“Losing may have helped him,” said Lewkowicz of his latest signee Flaz. “He was over-confident, and it cost him. Now he doesn’t take anyone lightly and puts in the work it takes to become a champion. I am very happy to be part of his team and will be working hard to help him realize his boxing dreams.”

#

About Sampson Boxing

Sampson Boxing has promotional partners all over North and South America, Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe and Central America. Sampson Boxing events have been televised on such premiere networks as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, ESPN+, DAZN, VS., FOX, Fox Sports and several international networks. For more information, visit sampsonboxing.com.

NEW BEDFORD, MA – Wilson “Ill Will” Mascarenhas (9-1, 3 KOs) returns to the ring this Saturday against wily veteran Braulio “El Chavo” Rodriguez (20-9, 17 KOs) in a 6-round welterweight contest.

The bout is the co-feature of a stacked ‘CES Boxing Homecoming’ card taking place at Bally’s Twin River Lincoln Casino on March 23. Priced at $60, $80, $155, and $180, tickets are quickly selling out, so make sure to visit CES Fights to purchase yours.  Fans who can’t make it to Bally’s can catch the action live and for free on Swerve Combat TV.

“I’m always looking forward to putting on a show,” says the New Bedford native of his tough assignment.  “I stay ready all year round, so it doesn’t matter who they put in front of me, I’m going to go in there and show my skills, ability, heart, and talent.”

In front of Mascarenhas on Saturday is an experienced foe who has shared the ring with the likes of 2-time world title challenger Christopher “Pitufo” Diaz, jr. welterweight star Ryan Garcia, and lightweight prospect Ashton Sylve.  Rodriguez is as savvy as they come, and he knows every trick in the book. 

“Rodriguez is a tricky opponent, but I’m ready for anything he brings,” says Wilson confidently.  “This is the best I ever felt mentally going into a camp, and physically I like to stay ready so that I don’t have to get ready. I’ve been locked in for several weeks now, so I’m looking forward to putting on a great show for the fans on Saturday night.”

When speaking with Mascarenhas, one gets the impression that the 29-year-old doesn’t take anything for granted in life.  After recovering from a brutal assault that took place in his hometown after one of his most impressive wins, Wilson has a deep understanding of how lucky he is to not just be able to box, but to simply live a normal life.

“I didn’t expect to be where I am today,” admits Mascarenhas, who was stabbed 4 times that night across his head, neck, back and shoulder.  “But here I am, and I’m excited, grateful, and blessed to be here.  I’m going to make the most of this.”

For Mascarenhas, living life to the fullest involves balancing fatherhood with a full-time job as a behavioralist at a school and his daily boxing training, conditioning, and physical therapy.  It’s a rigorous schedule, but one that Wilson feels grateful to be able to do on a daily basis.

“We’re working to get there,” laughs Mascarenhas when asked whether he plans to eventually make boxing his full-time job.  “Right now, boxing is not my full-time job but the way I do it, it’s as if it is because I put my all into it no matter what.  I work in the community, and I tell the kids all the time that sometimes in order to get where you need to be, you have to grind somewhere else.  They believe me because they see me do it.” 

While Mascarenhas gets a lot of satisfaction from working with the youth, the Portuguese native dreams of being able to dedicate himself fully to the Sweet Science.  Those dreams almost came tumbling down 2 years ago, but after 3 wins with 1 knockout since the attack and subsequent recovery, Wilson’s confidence in his abilities has grown.

“I’m getting better with every fight,” agrees Mascarenhas.  “With each outing, I’m feeling my injury less and less.  My right hand is coming out faster and I’m feeling much more comfortable.”

Wilson’s improvement has impressed CES Boxing so much that earlier in the month, they didn’t hesitate to renew their promotional pact with the welterweight prospect. 

“I want to give a big shout out to CES Boxing and Jimmy Burchfield for giving me the opportunity again,” says Mascarenhas, who would like to fight 2 more times in 2024 if successful on Saturday.  “As you know, boxing is a business and after sustaining injuries like that and having my character assassinated with speculation that my attack may have been gang related, I have to thank CES and Jimmy Burchfield for giving me another opportunity.   Now we we’re locked in, and I feel like we’re going to have great fights coming up and that’s the goal: stay busy, keep fighting, and keep climbing up the welterweight ranks.”

Wilson’s resurrection continues this Saturday night at Bally’s Twin River Casino against Braulio Rodriguez, but as the fighter points out, win, lose or draw, he plans to pursue his dreams and leave it all in the ring.

“When it’s all said and done, I don’t want to have any excuses,” says Mascarenhas.  “I don’t ever want to fail and say ‘oh, it’s because of this or that.’  That incident happened, it’s over and we’re moving forward.  This is where we are, and we’re going to stay in this path working hard and I’m going to keep blowing my opponents out of the water.”

For more information, follow CES Boxing on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @CESBOXING.

INFORMATION

CES Boxing is one of the top promotions on the East Coast.  Founded in 1992 by Jimmy Burchfield Sr., CES Boxing has promoted many world class fighters, including Jamaine Ortiz, Juiseppe Cusumano, Hank Lundy, Vinny Paz, Peter Manfredo, Mariusz Wach, Jason Estrada, Matt Godfrey, Chad Dawson and Ray Oliveira. CES Boxing has promoted such super fights as “The Thriller on Triller: Tyson v Jones Jr.”, “Mayweather vs. Gotti III” and “The Contender: Manfredo v Pemberton”.

SAN DIEGO (March 19, 2024) — Emanuel “El Vaquero” Navarrete hopes to join an elite circle of his Mexican countrymen, but he’ll have to venture into a new weight class against one of its top contenders.
 
Navarrete will take on Ukraine’s Denys Berinchyk for the vacant WBO lightweight world championship on Saturday, May 18 at Pechanga Arena San Diego. The fighting pride of San Juan Zitlaltepec will attempt to join Mexican-born warriors Erik Morales, Jorge Arce, Juan Manuel Marquez, Leo Santa Cruz, and Canelo Alvarez in becoming a four-weight world champion.
 
In the welterweight co-feature, San Diego’s Giovani Santillan, the WBO No. 1 contender, returns in front of the hometown fans against an opponent to be named.
 
Navarrete-Berinchyk and Santillan’s return will be broadcast LIVE on ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
 
Promoted by Top Rank, ticket information will be announced shortly.
 
“The San Diego boxing fans are passionate, and we are thrilled to be bringing Emanuel Navarrete back to Pechanga Arena as he bids to become a four-weight world champion,” said Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum. “We are also excited to showcase San Diego’s hometown hero, Giovani Santillan, a wonderful young man who I believe will be a welterweight world champion before long.”
 
Navarrete (38-1-1, 31 KOs) captured his first world title by upsetting Isaac Dogboe for the WBO junior featherweight crown in December 2018. After five defenses, he moved up to featherweight, where he handed Ruben Villa his first pro defeat to become a two-weight champion. The 29-year-old defended his belt three times before climbing up to junior lightweight to stop Liam Wilson in the ninth round to secure the WBO strap. Navarrete made two defenses in this third weight class, decisioning former two-division world champion Oscar Valdez in an all-Mexican showdown in August and dropping Brazilian Olympic gold medalist Robson Conceição twice en route to a majority draw in November.
 
Navarrete said, “Capturing a world title is a unique challenge, but the possibility of doing it four weight classes is a goal that fills me with motivation and gratitude. It will be an honor to join that select group of Mexican warriors who have made their mark in boxing history. And to be able to do it in front of fans in San Diego and from Tijuana will be an unforgettable experience. Feeling their support and energy in the ring will propel me to do my best and secure this victory for Mexico.”
 
Berinchyk (18-0, 9 KOs), a 2012 Olympic silver medalist on the same team as Vasiliy Lomachenko and Oleksandr Usyk, began his professional career in 2015. Berinchyk overcame stiff tests on his ascent up the lightweight ladder. In 2021, he vanquished Jose Sanchez via third-round TKO in March and decisioned Isa Chaniev across 12 rounds in December. After a one-year break, he defeated Yvan Mendy to win European honors. He followed up the Mendy win last August with a convincing decision over former world title challenger Anthony Yigit in Poland. The 35-year-old will have his first world title opportunity as he makes his U.S. debut.
 
Santillan (32-0, 17 KOs), who turned pro in May 2012, has steadily ascended the welterweight rankings. In 2022, he stopped Jeovanis Barraza in the seventh round before making his second Pechanga Arena appearance by giving Julio Luna his first pro loss on the undercard of Navarrete’s featherweight title defense against Eduardo Baez. He returned in July 2023 to best Erick Bone via 10-round decision. In his last outing, he stunned the boxing world with a one-sided, six-round demolition of number one contender Alexis Rocha at Kia Forum in Los Angeles. Santillan is on the precipice of becoming the second San Diego-born world champion, following Paul Vaden, who captured the IBF junior middleweight world title in 1995.
 
“After my last win, I’m excited to keep the ball rolling. I showed everyone what I could do and earned the WBO No. 1 ranking. I am looking forward to continuing with those types of performances and showing why I deserve a title shot,” Santillan said. “I want to gain more fans in San Diego, grow the fan base in my hometown, and pave the way for other fighters from my city. There hasn’t been a San Diego-born champion in a long time, and I want to be the next one.”

Las Vegas (March 19, 2024) – Four-division world champion and Hall of Famer Roy Jones Jr., has confirmed that he will appear at the Seventh Annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday May 4, 2024 at the Las Vegas Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Expo will also coincide with the mega fight between Canelo Alvarez vs Jaime Munguia, that will take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena.

Jones will hold a Meet & Greet with his fans at his booth during the fan event held over the Cinco De Mayo weekend. 

The Box Fan Expo is an annual fan event that coincides with some of the sports’ legendary, classic fights in Las Vegas, including Mayweather vs. Maidana II, Mayweather vs. Berto, Canelo vs. Chavez Jr., Canelo vs. GGG II, Canelo vs. Jacobs and Canelo vs. GGG III. 

Centered in boxing’s longtime home – Las Vegas – this year’s Expo is a must-do for fight fans coming in for this legendary weekend, with dozens of professional fighters, promoters, and companies involved in the boxing industry. The Expo is the largest and only Boxing Fan Expo held in the United States. http://boxfanexpo.com – @BoxFanExpo

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2024

Jones will make his fourth appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and memorabilia. Jones will also have merchandise to sell for fans to enjoy. Boxing Fans will have an opportunity to also take pictures with this Boxing living legend, considered by many as one of the greatest Pound for Pound and best Boxer of all time.

Jones joins Erik Morales, Shawn Porter, Fernando Vargas, Juan Manuel Marquez, Michael Spinks, Claressa Shields and Marco Antonio Barrera as an early commitment to this year’s Box Fan Expo, with more Boxing stars to be announced.

About Roy Jones Jr.

Roy Jones Jr. is an American professional boxer who was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of fame in Canastota on June 12th, 2022. Jones captured numerous championships in the Middleweight, Super middleweight, Light heavyweight and Heavyweight divisions. He is the only boxer in history to start his career as a junior middleweight, and go on to win a heavyweight title. He is also noted for holding the WBC, WBA, IBF, IBO, NABF, WBF, and IBA light heavyweight championships; a record seven belts at the same time. Jones left his mark in boxing history when he won the WBA heavyweight title, becoming the first former middleweight champion to win a Heavyweight title in 106 years. As of February 2018, Jones holds the record for the most wins in unified light heavyweight title bouts in boxing history, at twelve. The Ring magazine named Jones the Fighter of the Year in 1994, and the World Boxing Hall of Fame named him the Fighter of the Year for 2003. He is also a three-time winner of the Best Boxer ESPY Award (1996, 2000, and 2003). Jones was named “Fighter of the Decade” for the 1990s by the Boxing Writers Association of America. 

?About Box Fan Expo

Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet the stars of boxing that represent the past, present and future of the sport. With hosted autograph signings, meet-and-greets with current and former boxing world champions, limited edition merchandise for sale, giveaways and more, this is the ultimate event for fans of the sport.

Past boxing stars that have participated include: Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Sugar Ray Leonard, Julio Cesar Chavez, Juan Manuel Marquez, Tommy Hearns, Roy Jones Jr, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, David Benavidez, Teofimo Lopez, Andre Ward, Ryan Garcia, Marcos Maidana, Devin Haney, Mikey Garcia, Errol Spence Jr, Fernando Vargas, Rolando Romero, Sergio Martinez, Tim Bradley, Jose Ramirez, Shawn Porter, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Abner Mares, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Floyd Mayweather sr., Claressa Shields, Vinny Paz, Mia St.John, Franchón Crews-Dezurn, Seniesa Estrada, Jorge Linares, Leo Santa Cruz, Badou Jack, Terry Norris, Riddick Bowe, Earnie Shavers, Michael & Leon Spinks, Brandon Rios, Anthony Dirrell, Danny Jacobs, and many more.

Exhibitors include boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry as a whole.

Throughout the next few weeks leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo.

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –

To request information on exhibiting and sponsorship at the Expo:

For media credentials:

Contact us:

Telephone number: (702) 997-1927 or (514) 572-7222

For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com

More information on Box Fan Expo visit: http://www.boxfanexpo.com

Follow Box Fan Expo on Twitter and Instagram at: @BoxFanExpo

Follow Box Fan Expo on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/BoxFanExpo

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (March 19, 2024) — Tickets are on sale for the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame (ACBHOF) 8th Annual Awards & Induction Weekend to be held Friday September 27th, Saturday September 28th, and Sunday September 29th, 2024 at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City and Boardwalk Resorts – Flagship Hotel. 

The ACBHOF induction weekend commences at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City on Friday September 27th with the “Opening Bell” VIP Cocktail Reception where you can engage in an meet & greets with legendary figures: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM, $60.00 admission fee online and at the door, and Saturday September 28th, Fight Fan Experience will offer boxing enthusiasts an immersive interactive experience showcasing stunning artwork, exhibits, and boxing memorabilia and so much more: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, free admission

The Highlight of the weekend is Saturday evening September 28th, red-carpet formal Induction Ceremony which takes place in an award show atmosphere. Join us as we honor all who helped make Atlantic City a worldwide boxing Mecca. Attendees will enjoy the opportunity to mix and mingle with boxing royalty and special VIP guests.  

On behalf of Hard Rock Atlantic City, we are proud to welcome back Atlantic City’s Boxing Hall of Fame. This exciting event offers boxing enthusiasts a wonderful experience to interact and meet some of the most influential and legendary names in boxing history. Hosting unique events such as the ACBHOF continues to provide us with the most diverse entertainment line-up in Atlantic City,” stated Mike Woodside, VP of Entertainment & Marketing, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City

 Tickets can be purchased by visiting: Ticketmaster | ticket prices are: $125.00 & $60.00

Please visit our website for event tickets, room reservations and full event schedule and itinerary by visiting us at: www.acbhof.com  

“We eagerly anticipate the induction of these distinguished individuals chosen for the “2024” Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame. We look forward with great enthusiasm to celebrating and paying tribute to this exceptional group, whose contributions have played a significant role in establishing Atlantic City as a globally recognized boxing Mecca.” – Ray McCline, President, Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame 

“Thank you esteemed colleagues for selecting me for a prestigious position such as an inductee in the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame! This is a great honor and I salute you all. Moreover, Atlantic City has been great to me throughout my career and I have fond memories of the many fights fought there while pursuing my Championship journey. I look forward to seeing you all in September 2024.” – James Buster Douglas

“Atlantic City holds many great memories from my boxing career, where I experienced triumph and defeat. The iconic Boardwalk Hall marked the start of my recognition on the world boxing stage, establishing me as one of the best globally. I’m humbled and forever grateful for being inducted into Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame rich boxing history. Thank you for this extraordinary recognition.” – Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez 

“I cherish the memories from my time in Atlantic City, where numerous significant moments unfolded in my life. I’m so proud to be honored by A. C. Boxing Hall of Fame, particularly at this juncture in my life when it might seem that the efforts I invested to achieve championship status are overlooked by many. I’m humbled by this recognition” – Paul Williams 

2024 INDUCTION CLASS:

  FIGHTERS: James Buster Douglas, Sergio Martinez, Paul Williams, Gerry Cooney, Mark Breland, Sharmba Mitchell, Tyrone Mitchell Frazier, Mario Maldonado and Eva Jones-Young CONTRIBUTORS: James “Buddy” Mcgirt, Bruce Blair, Sampson Lewkowicz, Eric Bottjer, Randy Gordon, Guy Gargan POSTHUMOUSLY: Howard Davis Jr., Jay Larkin, Eddie Cotton PIONEERS: Eric Seelig, George Godfrey, Joey Giardello 

A special thanks to our partners, sponsors and supporters: Mayor Marty Small Sr., City of Atlantic City, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, Flagship Hotel-Club Boardwalk Resorts, Casino Reinvestment Development Authority, Irish Pub -Atlantic City, Sampson Boxing, Sparbar Ltd, Bare Knuckle Fighting Champions, Tennessee Ave Tobacco Company, Fight Night Apparel, Icons of Boxing Memorabilia, Adams Boxing, WBC, IBF, CM 3D Crystal’s, Chris Guzman Gloves and Patrick Killian Arts.

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

PROVIDENCE, RI – CES Boxing is proud to announce an exclusive multi-fight pro boxing promotional agreement with former 2-time Muay Thai world champion Kinjo “The One” Espada. The 22-year-old will make his professional boxing debut at ‘CES Boxing Homecoming’ on Saturday, March 23 at Bally’s Twin River Lincoln Casino against undefeated welterweight prospect Jeff Gonzalez (4-0, 2 KOs). 

‘CES Boxing Homecoming’ is a stacked 8-bout card featuring many of the top fighters in New England.  The card takes place at Bally’s Twin River Lincoln Casino on Saturday, March 23.  Tickets are available at CESFights.com, priced at $60, $80, $155, and $180.  Fans who can’t make it to Bally’s can catch the action live and for free on Swerve Combat TV.

“Kinjo Espada is a tremendous talent,” said CES Boxing founder Jimmy Burchfield, Sr.  “I am honored to welcome him to our team.  He is already a world champion in Muay Thai and I will ensure that he surpasses those accomplishments in boxing.  He has a great team around him, and his family embodies the values of humility, discipline, and dedication that I look for in fighters.”

Born in San Diego to a Puerto Rican and Italian father and a Vietnamese and Filipino mother, the multi-ethnic pugilist has also lived in Las Vegas and Everett, MA before settling in Pawtucket, Rhode Island earlier this year.  That makes for a broad fanbase as his career takes off.

“Oh yeah,” agrees John Espada, Sr.  “Our fans travel.  For this fight, we’ll have people coming in from California, Vegas, Massachusetts, the Carolinas, and Florida.”      

However, rather than coming up the amateur boxing circuit, Kinjo and his brother John Jr. are well known for their Muay Thai, where Kinjo amassed a 56-6 amateur record.  In the process, he became an 8-time national champion and a 2-time world champion.  This earned Espada an invitation to join the United States Muay Thai team, where he served as the captain and qualified for the US Olympic team when Muay Thai was considered on a provisional basis.  As luck would have it, the COVID pandemic struck and put a halt to those plans, altering Espada’s fate in favor of the Sweet Science.

“Boxing has always been in my family,” explains Espada.  “I’m a third-generation boxer.  My grandfather fought and my father fought.  We did do Muay Thai first, but my heart will always be in boxing.” 

John Espada Sr., who raised his 3 kids as a single father for 12 years before remarrying 5 years ago, believed that Muay Thai would provide his sons with the discipline and humility that is sometimes missing in boxing.

“The reason why I started them in Muay Thai instead of boxing, is that I don’t like what boxing has become,” says John Sr.  “By design, I didn’t want my sons in the limelight like some of these other boxers who are always on YouTube and getting into trouble for what they say or do.  I used Muay Thai as a vessel for them to gain their notoriety because I knew that it would teach them true discipline and it would translate well into boxing.”

The transition to boxing is going to be a steep one for Kinjo.  With his father and co-trainer Brian Johnson, the fighter and his team decided that he was ready for the pro ranks after only one amateur contest.  Rather than debuting against a boxer with a losing record to test the waters, Kinjo is jumping into the deep end by facing an undefeated prospect in Jeff Gonzalez.

“I only had one amateur fight,” laughs Kinjo.  “But I sparred a lot of professional boxers when I was in Muay Thai. I did pretty well, so I’m confident.  I know that my opponent is 4-0 and finished his last 2 opponents.  I think beating him in my debut is going to make a statement.” 

A win against an undefeated prospect in his pro debut would make quite a statement, and CES Boxing plans to keep him very active if he does.

“Definitely,” agrees Burchfield Sr.  “If he wins on Saturday, the sky’s the limit.  He’ll fight at Bally’s again on May 11 and then at Mohegan Sun Arena on June 15th.”

The journey begins for “The One” this Saturday at Bally’s Twin River Lincoln Casino.

For more information, follow CES Boxing on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @CESBOXING.

INFORMATION

CES Boxing is one of the top promotions on the East Coast.  Founded in 1992 by Jimmy Burchfield Sr., CES Boxing has promoted many world class fighters, including Jamaine Ortiz, Juiseppe Cusumano, Hank Lundy, Vinny Paz, Peter Manfredo, Mariusz Wach, Jason Estrada, Matt Godfrey, Chad Dawson and Ray Oliveira. CES Boxing has promoted such super fights as “The Thriller on Triller: Tyson v Jones Jr.”, “Mayweather vs. Gotti III” and “The Contender: Manfredo v Pemberton”.

LOS ANGELES – March 19, 2024 – Undisputed Super Middleweight World Champion and pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez and unbeaten all-action star and former world champion Jaime Munguía went face-to-face for the first time Tuesday at a press conference in Los Angeles before Canelo Promotions presents their clash of Mexican superstars taking place Saturday, May 4 headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Canelo vs. Munguía is the first four-belt undisputed title fight between Mexican combatants and harkens back to the great Mexico vs. Mexico matchups of the past. Both Canelo and Munguía expressed respect for their fellow countryman during Tuesday’s press conference, and promised to honor their shared heritage with an action-packed main event on Cinco de Mayo weekend.

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to purchase the PPV via DAZN.com. On top of those options, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets, and PPV.com.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now at AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions, TGB Promotions, in association with Golden Boy Promotions and Zanfer Boxing Promotions.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Tuesday:

CANELO ALVAREZ

“This fight is a great source of pride for me, because it’s all about Mexico. I’m proud to have my country featured this way in front of the whole world. The fans are going to be the biggest winners on May 4 and we invite everyone to what’s gonna be a big party for Mexico.

“Defending my undisputed title is very important for me. This is all about making history. I want my legacy to be that I made history again and again. That’s what motivates me to keep defending my belts and giving great fights to the fans.

“Jaime Munguia is a respectful person and a great fighter who’s earned this fight again and again. Everyone will see how great this fight is for Mexico on May 4.

“Munguia is a disciplined fighter who hits hard. He’s a power puncher and I like a challenge. I want to face fighters who are hungry like I am. He’s a fighter who can give the fans the show they deserve.

“I’m really proud of how amazing fight week is going to be. The fans will be showing their pride everywhere. I can’t wait to show the world what kind of party Mexicans can throw inside and outside of the ring.”

JAIME MUNGUIA

“I’m very thankful to Canelo and everyone who made this fight happen and brought us to this special day. We’ve been working really, really hard for this fight because it’s going to be such a big fight for Mexico.

“Canelo has always been a source of pride and motivation for me. I used to say when I was coming up in the sport that I want to be like him, and now we get a chance to face him and hopefully be where he is soon.

“Not only is Freddie Roach a great trainer, but he’s a great person and he’s a motivator. He’s always motivating us to keep going forward and keep training hard.

“We’re ready for this stage. We’re ready for everything and we’re going to have a great fight that night. We’re very confident.

“This is just the beginning of the best part of my career. I’ve done a lot in my career so far, but I believe I’m just reaching my peak now.

“The respect between us is mutual. We want to be a source of pride not just for Mexicans in Mexico, but those all around the world who are expecting a great fight. It’s going to be a great Mexican party and I promise a great fight that fans are going to love.

“Both our fights with John Ryder are two completely different fights. We just took advantage of the opportunity we saw. We know every fight is different so we won’t take too much from Canelo’s fight against Ryder.”

EDDY REYNOSO, Canelo’s Manager & Trainer

“I’m very appreciative of everything that’s been done to make this fight happen and bring us here. Any time that two Mexican fighters face each other, you know it’s going to be an all-out war. Even more so in this fight, because it’s the first time two Mexican fighters will go at it for all four belts.

“We’re going to prove to the world that Mexican boxing is the best in the world. We’re going to work really hard to be sharp on May 4 and we invite everyone to witness a great fight. The fans are going to be the real winners.”

FREDDIE ROACH, Munguia’s Trainer

“It doesn’t get any bigger than this. This is two of the best fighters in the world and I’m in charge of getting one of them ready. Jaime has a tremendous work ethic and we’re going to be prepared to do anything we can to take the titles.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“This really is a very special event taking place Cinco de Mayo weekend. This all-Mexican showdown will be one of the most anticipated Cinco de Mayo fights in years.

“PBC had a fantastic 2023. It was a legendary year with massive pay-per-view events. We at TGB Promotions and PBC look forward to putting on more industry-leading events and continuing with another historic year showcasing the biggest stars and the best world class boxing shows.”

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions

“With two Mexican fighters at this elite level, we’re in for a special treat…What makes me most proud is that the world will truly be watching. We can’t wait to see everyone there on May 4.”

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NEW YORK CITY (March 19, 2024) – Brooklyn heavyweight Pryce Taylor (3-0, 2 KOs) has successfully transitioned from basketball to boxing and today the 27-year-old prospect is on the rise as an undefeated prize fighter.

Taylor said he brought his legs from the courts into the ring. He first dunked a ball when he was in eighth grade, four inches shorter than the 6’ 4” Taylor is today. Pryce admits missing basketball but quickly notes that he could still play, not necessarily on a team, because he’s not in basketball shape anymore. “I’m in boxing shape,” he proudly noted.

A decorated U.S. amateur boxer, highlighted by his two New York Golden Gloves Championship titles, Taylor was also a four-time runner-up in USA National Championships, including one to Joshua Edwards, who has qualified to represent as a super heavyweight for Team USA in the 2024 Olympics in Paris.

Last year, Taylor had seven wins fighting for New York in the Team Combat League (TCL), which is a one-round, team format competition. Technically-speaking, the wins are not part of his professional boxing record. Taylor has benefited from that experience and will be competing this season as well.

Taylor played basketball for one season at Corning Community College in upstate New York. “I stopped playing basketball six years ago,” Taylor said. “I’ve had 60 fights (amateurs, pros and TCL) and believe the best boxers get there with sparring experience. So, I’ve been getting a lot of experience. I have a good skill set and know what I need to do in the ring.

“My mindset is to do what other boxers don’t do. All boxers learn the basics, but everything they want to throw, I already throw myself, and I know how to counter there’s. Anything they throw I’m able to defend.”

Taylor has been placed on the fast track by his manager, New York City-based attorney Keith Sullivan, who has discovered that it’s not easy finding suitable opponents for Taylor, who because of his size, amateur pedigree and participating in the TCL, is much more advanced than his three pro fights may indicate.

Another invaluable part of Taylor’s development is sparring established heavyweights such as Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller, Otto Wallin, Vladyslav Sirenko, and Brandon Glanton to name a few of the more notables.

Taylor made his pro debut last December, stopping Mike Diorio in the opening round, followed January 27 with the exact same result versus Gabriel Aguilar Costa. In his most recent action in March, Taylor went the distance for the first time as a pro, pitching a four-round shutout for a unanimous decision against Antonio Torres (4-1), 40-36 three times.

(L-R) – Head trainer Benny Roman, Pryce Taylor & manager Keith Sullivan (photo courtesy of Sullivan Management)

In his last fight, held at Sony Hall, Taylor came out to the ring and paraded around the ring afterwards with an Irish flag draped around his massive shoulders (see above picture).

“Keith (Sullivan) knew there would be a lot of Irish fans there to watch an Irish fighter (Emmet Brennan) fighting after me,” Taylor explained. “He figured it was a good way to engage the large Irish crowd, so he draped me in the Irish tri-color flag. He was right, the Irish in attendance absolutely loved it, and I made some more fans.”

Basketball loss is boxing’s gain; Pryce Taylor is a legitimate prospect with tremendous upside.

In addition to managing Pryce Taylor, Keith Sullivan, a former Deputy Commissioner with the New York State Athletic Commission, and longtime boxing lawyer, also manages IBF Bantamweight World Champion Miyo Yoshida (17-4, 0 KOs) and Bronx middleweight prospect Nisa Rodriguez (1-0), in addition to co-managing World Boxing Association (WBA) No. 12-rated welterweight contender Paddy “The Real Deal” Donovan (13-0, 10 KOs), the reigning WBA Continental Champion from Limerick, Ireland. Sullivan co-manages Donovan with former world middleweight champion Andy Lee.

Jose Zepeda hopes that a big win over rising Super-Lightweight star Dalton Smith will springboard him towards a fourth shot at world honours.

The three-time World Title challenger from California, USA looks to inflict a first professional loss on Sheffield’s Smith in an intriguing main event at the Utilita Arena this Saturday March 23 – live worldwide on DAZN. 

Zepeda (37-4, 28 KOs) has twice challenged for gold at Super-Lightweight – falling short on points against Jose Carlos Ramirez for the WBC crown in 2019 before suffering an eleventh-round stoppage against Regis Prograis for the same title in November 2022.

‘Chon’ presents a significant step up in class for Smith – who has cleaned up the domestic 140lbs scene by capturing the British and Commonwealth Titles – and the experienced 34-year-old admits that he would consider retirement if he were to suffer defeat at the hands of ‘Thunder’.

“This is going to be a hell of a fight,” said Zepeda. “One thing we know; we have to win big. I have to win this fight. I’m still here because I want new opportunities. I want my fourth chance (at a World Title). I’m already 34-years-old; that’s why I’m taking hard fights. I want a hard fights, and I am planning my way back with this fight.

“I saw his record; I know he’s 15-0. I know he’s a big star in the UK. I think it’s a good chance for me to get back to the top. I know he’s good and he seems like a star over there in the UK. He’s energetic inside that ring. He likes to move and he’s kind of fast. I know he likes to come forwards to that’s going to make it a great fight. I do believe it’s going to be a great fight.

“We’re going to love the style. The winners here in this fight are going to be the fans. He’s going to have a hard fight in front of him. This is the first time he’s stepping up in the levels; so he’s going to find out that it’s not easy. It’s not easy to get in there.

“The UK fans, they love boxing – and I know they’re going to love the fight. It’s going to be a war in there because I know Dalton will bring it. I’m happy to go over there and I’m planning to win some new fans. At the end of the day they better cheer their guy up well afterwards because he’s going to need it.”

Last time out in September, Zepeda was on the wrong side of a boxing masterclass from one of the USA’s brightest emerging stars Richardson Hitchins. Undeterred by a shutout points loss, the southpaw jumped at the chance to step in the ring with another of the world’s fast rising Super-Lightweight talents.

“It was a tough loss against Hitchins because I wanted to get back into the top ten,” said Zepeda. “He is a talented fighter. I do believe he is going to be a champion. I could have taken an easy fight but that’s not going to get me anywhere. I want a hard fight so I can get back straight away into the top ten contenders in the 140lbs division.

“Richardson Hitchins was more like a move around. He doesn’t like to get hit. I know Dalton likes to come forwards so I think it’s going to be a great fight. If I win this fight it’s going to open my opportunities with Matchroom and that’s what I want. I want big opportunities. Experience is what has me here at this point. Three times I’ve fought for a World Title; I want my fourth opportunity.

“If I don’t win this fight most likely I’m probably going to retire. So, I’m training my hardest to make sure I don’t retire. If I don’t win this fight, then that means there’s no big fights for me afterwards. I’m planning on only being in big fights; so, I have to win this fight.”

Zepeda vs. Smith headlines a huge night of action in Sheffield, Derby’s WBO Welterweight World Champion Sandy Ryan (6-1-1, 2 KOs) puts her gold on the line against Denaby Main’s two-division World Champion Terri Harper (14-1-2, 6 KOs) in a huge domestic clash, it’s Leeds against Darlington as Ishmael Davis (12-0, 6 KOs) and TroyWilliamson (20-2-1, 14 KOs) meet in a Final Eliminator for the British Super-Welterweight Title,  Hyde’s Campbell Hatton (14-0, 5 KOs) goes for his first title when he meets Doncaster’s James Flint (13-1-2, 3 KOs) for the Central Area Super-Lightweight Title, Mansfield’s Nico Leivars (5-0-1) takes on Southend’s Piotr Mirga (7-2) in a Final Eliminator for the English Bantamweight Title, Sheffield Light-Heavyweight Liam Cameron (22-5, 9 KOs) returns after his first-round win over Harry Matthews last month, Newham Super-Welterweight prospect Leli Buttigieg (2-0, 1 KO) fights for the second time this year and Cusworth Middleweight Connan Murray (6-0, 1 KO) kicks off the Before The Bell action. 

QUINCY, Mass. (March 19, 2024)  – One of the Northeast’s elite contemporary prizefighters, New Haven (CT) super featherweight William “The Silent Assassin” Foster III (16-1, 10 KOs), has been added to this Saturday night’s “Pandemonium at The Palladium 3” pro boxing card, presented by Granite Chin Promotions (GCP).

All of the “Pandemonium at the Palladium 3” action will be streamed on www.BXNGTV.com live from the famed Palladium in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Foster was a celebrated amateur boxer who captured top honors in the 2012 and 2014 New England Golden Gloves Championships, as well as taking a Silver Medal at the prestigious National Golden Gloves runner-up in 2014. Ranked No. 14 in super featherweight division by the World Boxing Association (WBA), Foster is the reigning WBA Fedecentro Champion who will face an opponent to be finalized in an eight-round, non-title fight.

Card subject to change.

Tickets are priced at $45.00 (standing room), $50.00 (balcony), $90.00 (mezzanine), $125.00 (floor) and $650.00 (booth of 4) and available for purchase online at www.ThePalladium.net. Tickets will be available for purchase Saturday night at the Palladium’s box office.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET, first bout at 7 p.m. ET.

INFORMATION:  

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

LAS VEGAS – March 18, 2024 – Undefeated rising star Tim Tszyu will take on all-action contender Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora for Tszyu’s WBO title (pending approval), and the vacant WBC 154-pound world title, headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event available on Prime Video Saturday, March 30 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Tszyu had originally been scheduled to face two-time world champion Keith Thurman, who was forced to withdraw after suffering a bicep injury in training. Fundora had already been preparing to compete in the pay-per-view opener before being moved up to the main event.

The pay-per-view will begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and also features WBA Super Lightweight World Champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero taking on Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz in the co-main event, plus WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara duels Australia’s Michael Zerafa in a 12-round attraction. The pay-per-view opener will now see WBC Flyweight World Champion Julio César Martínez defending his world title against unbeaten contender Angelino Cordova. Martinez vs. Cordova had originally been scheduled to appear in prelims action.

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through PPV.com, as well as traditional cable and satellite outlets.

Preceding the pay-per-view will be a two-fight PBC on Prime Video lineup beginning at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT, topped by rising middleweight Elijah García taking on contender Kyrone “Shut It Down” Davis in a 10-round attraction. Kicking off the stream will be exciting 154-pound contenders Serhii Bohachuk and Brian Mendoza battling for the Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title. Bohachuk had been originally scheduled to face Fundora before the changes to the lineup. The two matchups will be available via free access to all fans, regardless of Prime membership or purchase of the PPV card.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are available now through AXS.com. The main event is promoted in association with No Limit Boxing.

*TIM TSZYU VS. SEBASTIAN FUNDORA*

The son of International Boxing Hall of Famer Kostya Tszyu, the 29-year-old Tszyu (24-0, 17 KOs) comes off a red-hot 2023 campaign that saw him elevated to world champion at 154-pounds while defeating former world champion Tony Harrison, top contender Brian Mendoza and former title challenger Carlos Ocampo. A native of Sydney, Australia, Tszyu made his U.S debut against U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in March 2022, earning a unanimous decision. Tszyu grew up playing soccer, but soon gravitated toward boxing. The decision led to him following in the legendary footsteps of his father, Kostya, who was an undisputed 140-pound champion.

Fundora (20-1-1, 13 KOs) rocketed to the top of the super welterweight division with a fan-friendly style and bruising toughness in the ring. His unbeaten streak came to an end in his last outing, as he got caught and was defeated by Brian Mendoza in April of last year. At nearly 6-foot-6, the 26-year-old southpaw from Coachella, Calif., towers over his opponents, but has displayed an appetite for toe-to-toe combat from short range. Fundora showed his mettle in April 2022, battling the hard-hitting Erickson Lubin in an instant 2022 Fight of the Year contender. Despite both men hitting the canvas, Fundora stood tall in the end, prompting Lubin’s corner to stop the fight at the end of the ninth round. Fundora represents a boxing family, as he is trained by his father Freddy alongside his younger sister, IBF Flyweight World Champion Gabriela.

*ROLANDO ROMERO VS. ISAAC CRUZ*

Part of the Mayweather Promotions stable, Romero (15-1, 13 KOs) is known for his brash talk that he backs up with power in both hands as well as an exciting, unique style that makes him a must-see whenever he steps between the ropes. The 28-year-old rose to the ranks of world champion in his last outing, stopping Ismael Barroso in round nine to win the title in May. It was Romero’s first return to the ring since a May 2022 defeat against three-division champion Gervonta Davis. Prior to the Davis fight, the Las Vegas resident Romero won an interim title in August 2020 by earning a close but unanimous decision over then unbeaten Jackson Marinez. 

One of the most exciting fighters in boxing, the 25-year-old Cruz (25-2-1, 17 KOs) has racked up three consecutive victories since dropping a competitive and entertaining decision against undefeated superstar Gervonta Davis in December 2021. A native of Mexico City, Cruz shot up the lightweight rankings in 2020, announcing his presence with an electrifying first-round knockout over veteran Diego Magdaleno in October before adding dominant decisions over Francisco Vargas and Jose Matias Romero. After stopping former champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in April 2022 and veteran contender Eduardo Ramirez in September 2022, Cruz returned this past July to turn away the previously unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera by decision.

*ERISLANDY LARA VS. MICHAEL ZERAFA*

Lara (29-3-3, 17 KOs) was the longest reigning 154-pound world champion before he lost a tough split-decision to Jarrett Hurd in a 2018 title unification match that earned “Fight of the Year” from the BWAA. Lara returned from that fight and battled former 154-pound world titleholder Brian Castaño to an exciting draw in another narrow fight that could have gone Lara’s way. Lara most recently moved up to middleweight, capturing his WBA title with a first round knockout of Thomas LaManna in May 2021, before KO’ing Gary O’Sullivan in May 2022. Lara faced a slew of the top 154-pounders in the sport, including Canelo Alvarez, ahead of his middleweight debut.

Melbourne, Australia’s Zerafa (31-4, 19 KOs) is long established as one of his country’s top contenders and has won four-straight to earn the title fight on March 30. Zerafa has split a pair of matchups against former champion and Australian rival Jeff Horn in addition to a first round knockout of longtime contender Anthony Mundine. The 31-year-old previously fought stateside in 2015, as he dropped a contest to former middleweight champion Peter Quillin. The veteran has also challenged former champion Kell Brook and defeated previously unbeaten fighters Danilo Creati and Isaac Hardman in his last two fights.

*JULIO CESAR MARTINEZ VS. ANGELINO CORDOVA*

Trained by the renowned Eddy Reynoso, Martínez (20-2, 15 KOs) first captured his flyweight world title with a ninth-round stoppage of Cristofer Rosales in his stateside debut in December 2019. The 29-year-old has gone on to defend the title five times, besting previously unbeaten opponents Jay Harris and Samuel Carmona, while most recently stopping Ronal Batista in May. A native of Mexico City, Martínez’s only blemish since a split-decision loss in his pro debut was a decision loss to future Hall of Famer Roman Gonzalez in March 2022.

The 28-year-old Cordova (18-0-1, 12 KOs) earned a career-best victory in his last outing, as he bested former world champion Angel Acosta on his way to a 10-round unanimous decision victory last April. A native of Ciudad Bolivar, Venezuela, Cordova has yet to taste defeat since debuting in 2017, with a draw in just his fourth fight as the only blemish. He made his U.S. debut in June 2022, defeating Axel Aragon Vega by decision before the triumph over Acosta.

*ELIJAH GARCIA VS. KYRONE DAVIS*

Fighting out of Phoenix, Arizona, García (16-0, 13 KOs) earned three impressive victories in 2023, kicking off his year last March with a knockout of the previously unbeaten Amilcar Vidal. He followed that up with a pair of performances on the undercards of two of the biggest events of the year, first defeating Kevin Salgado on the Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia pay-per-view in April before knocking out Armando Resendiz on the Canelo Alvarez vs. Jermell Charlo pay-per-view in September. The precocious García has moved fast since turning pro in 2020 and has knocked out seven of his last nine opponents.

The 29-year-old Davis (18-3-1, 6 KOs) picked up two victories in 2023, dominating Cristian Fabian Rios in January before scoring a unanimous decision over Cruse Stewart in December. Those victories came after a run that saw Davis battle two-time champion Anthony Dirrell to a draw in February 2021, before stepping in as a late replacement two fights later to drop a hard-fought contest against super middleweight superstar David Benavidez. An amateur standout representing Wilmington, Delaware, Davis trains in Philadelphia under the tutelage of top trainer Stephen “Breadman” Edwards.

*SERHII BOHACHUK VS. BRIAN MENDOZA*

A 28-year-old from Ukraine, Bohachuk (23-1, 23 KOs) now resides in Los Angeles, where he’s fought out of since turning pro. The 28-year-old has won five-straight outings, including 2023 stoppages of Nathaniel Gallimore and Patrick Allotey. This run has come after a defeat to Brandon Adams in March 2021 and has seen him rise back up the 154-pound rankings. He won his first 18 fights after turning pro in 2017 following an extensive amateur career.

Originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico and now fighting out of Las Vegas, Mendoza (22-3, 16 KOs) will return to the ring after traveling to Australia last October to challenge Tim Tszyu for his world title in a matchup that saw him lose by decision. Prior to that fight, The 30-year-old scored one of the year’s biggest upsets in April as he stopped the previously unbeaten Fundora with a sensational knockout in round seven, solidifying his own status at 154 pounds. Reinvigorated since teaming with renowned trainer Ismael Salas, Mendoza had previously knocked out former unified 154-pound champion Jeison Rosario in November 2022. Mendoza had put together a three-fight winning streak since dropping a decision to highly touted knockout artist Jesus Ramos in September 2021.

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For more information visit www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #TszyuFundora and #RollyPitbull, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions

LOS ANGELES (March 18, 2024) — WBO/IBF minimumweight world champion Yokasta Valle wants to make history for Costa Rica, but standing in her way is a fellow pound-for-pound queen for whom this rivalry has become personal. 

Valle will face WBC/WBA/Ring Magazine world champion Seniesa “Super Bad” Estrada in a highly anticipated undisputed minimumweight showdown on Friday, March 29 at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona. Estrada-Valle will serve as the co-feature to the 12-round junior lightweight main event between former two-weight world champion Oscar Valdez and one-time world title challenger Liam Wilson.

Valdez-Wilson & Estrada-Valle headline a stacked card streaming live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+. Promoted by Top Rank, in association with No Limit Boxing, tickets are on sale now via Ticketmaster.com.

Valle (30-2, 9 KOs) claimed the vacant IBF atomweight world title by defeating Ana Victoria Polo in December 2016. Nearly three years later, she moved up and snatched the IBF minimumweight world title from Joana Pastrana in August 2019. Valle added the WBO title to her collection with a victory over Thi Thu Nhi Nguyen in September 2022. Since then, she has successfully defended her unified crown four times, including a decision win over Anabel Ortiz in November. Estrada (25-0, 9 KOs), a 13-year pro and two-weight world champion, looks to end a longstanding rivalry by fully unifying the division.

Following a recent training session at Wild Card Boxing Club, this is what Valle had to say:

“This fight is very important because becoming undisputed champion is a dream of mine and because I’d be making history for Costa Rica and for all Latinos. It’s also important because of the many years of effort in putting women’s boxing where it is now.”

“If she’s not concentrated on this fight and is thinking about other things that have nothing to do with it, then it can be to my advantage. If when she steps into the ring she’s thinking about my trainer or about something else, then I feel she will be distracted.”

“You will see the best version of me in this fight. I’m aggressive, and I’m a warrior. When the bell rings, I like to throw lots of punches. So you will see a Yokasta who is very aggressive and who will throw lots of punches, to the point where she won’t know where they are coming from!”

“My coach {Gloria Alvarado} knows her really well. But aside from that, I have an advantage because she is also an excellent trainer. It’s because of that and not because she’s known her since she was a kid. She knows how to work with me. We have a great connection.”

LOS ANGELES (March 18, 2024) – Toro Promotions, Inc. will showcase a heavyweight trio of talent – undefeated 2020 Ukraine Olympian Tsotne Rogava (5-0, 5 KOs), Alexander “The Great” Flores (18-4-1, 16 KOs) and Kingsley Ibeh (11-2-1, 9 KOs) – this Saturday night (March 23) at LumColor Phoenix Center in Ontario, California.

The event is co-promoted by Toro Promotions, Inc. and Fearless Boxing Promotions.

The 6’ 5”, 270-pound Rogava is on the fast track. Born in Georgia, Rogava lived for several years in Ukraine until moving last year to Marina del Rei, California. He has successfully transitioned to boxing from his world class Muay Thai and kickboxing career.

Rogava is on the fast track; this fight will be his third in 2024, albeit neither bout went beyond the first round. In fact, the powerful heavyweight has only box seven rounds in his five pro fights to date.

In addition to headlining a card for the second time in a row. Rogava will be in his first scheduled eight-round bout on March 23^rd, taking on dangerous puncher Antonio Brown (8-4, 8 KOs) in the main event.

Fighting out of Rowland Heights, California, Flores plans to rebound from his 10-round unanimous decision loss to 15-1-1 Dante Stone this past January 4. Flores’ three other pro career losses have all been to world champions Luis Ortiz, Joseph Parker, and Charles Martin

Flores, 33, faces Josue Vargas (5-6-2, 2 KOs) in a six-round match.

Ibeh, known as “The Black Lion,” is a native of Nigeria who lives in Phoenix. The 6’ 4” Ibeh will be riding a six-fight win streak into his six-round fight with Derek Cardenas (9-11, 2 KOs). Ibeh has boxing in his blood. His cousin is Ike Ibeabuchi, who was 20-0 with 15 knockouts and one of the most feared heavyweights in boxing, prior to his 16-year incarceration in Nevada.

Fights subject to change.

INFORMATION:

Instagram: @ToroPromotionsInc

Facebook: /ToroPromotionsInc

You Tube: @ToroPromotionsINC

X (formerly Twitter): @ToroPromotions

TikTok: @ToroPromo

NEW YORK CITY (March 18, 2024) – New York City police officer and decorated amateur boxer Nisa Rodriguez returned home last Friday night to the scene of many of her amateur victories, Madison Square Garden Theater in Manhattan, and the gifted, popular super middleweight turned in an auspicious pro boxing debut.

Rodriguez, fighting out of Manhattan, pitched a near shutout, winning each round on all but one of the judges’ scorecards enroute to a four-round unanimous decision (40-36 X 2, 39-37) over an outclassed yet game Jozette Cotton on 360 Promotions’ St. Patrick’s Day weekend event streamed live on UFC Fight Pass.

“When I was warming up,” Rodriguez said, “it felt like the golden gloves all over again. I was really relaxed, and everything felt normal. There were so many people there (supporting her), half the (police) department must have been there. It was a long time coming. It was an honor. 360 Promotions took a risk because I hadn’t been active. I want to thank my manager, Keith Sullivan, trainer Jimmy Sosa, and the Bronx crew.

“I wish I started the fight like I ended it, but I hurt a knuckle on my right hand in the first round, and I didn’t let my hand go until later in the fight. Headgear is used in the amateurs to protect the fighter, but I really enjoyed fighting without it because it can be an annoyance, especially for females. I’m ready to go back in the gym yesterday.”

SUPPORTING NISA RODRIGUEZ (L-R) – Mina Yoshida and her mother, IBF Bantamweight World Champion Miyo Yoshida, 9-time, 7-division world champion Amanda Serrano, and Nisa and Miyo’s manager, NYC-based attorney Keith Sullivan (photo courtesy of Sullivan Management)

“I am really pleased with her performance,” Sullivan remarked. “For months there has been a lot of noise or hype around this pro debut, and she handled it all in stride. I didn’t pull the typical manager move for a debit and get her a warm body that would go down in one round. Nisa knew she had a tough opponent, but she stayed poised and boxed well. There are always things to improve on, and I’ve never seen a fighter more eager to get back in the gym to grind and work on those things than Nisa. We already are in talks for her next fight. My work on that literally started 10-minutes after Nisa’s hand was raised victoriously Friday night.”

As an elite amateur boxer, Rodriguez was an eight-time New York Daily News Golden Gloves, six-time Metro Championships, two-time Empire State and Caribbean and Central Americano gold medalist. The large majority of these fights were held at Madison Square Garden Theater, so Nisa felt comfortable fighting at home in her pro debut. She also captured three National Golden Gloves Championship titles.

A NYC police officer for two years, Rodriguez is stationed citywide for the rapid response unit, specializing in any crimes that involve adolescents, and supporting families of homicides.

Sullivan, a former Deputy Commissioner with the New York State Athletic Commission, and longtime boxing lawyer, also manages IBF Bantamweight World Champion Miyo Yoshida (17-4, 0 KOs) and Brooklyn heavyweight prospect Pryce Taylor (3-0, 2 KOs), in addition to co-managing World Boxing Association (WBA) No. 12-rated welterweight contender Paddy “The Real Deal” Donovan (13-0, 10 KOs), the reigning WBA Continental Champion from Limerick, Ireland. Sullivan co-manages Donovan with former world middleweight champion Andy Lee.

TEAM RODRIGUEZ (L-R) – Sergiy Korchynsky, Jimmy Sosa, manager Keith Sullivan, Nisa Rodriguez and Aurillano Sosa

(Photo courtesy of 360 Promotions)

INFORMATION

Instagram: @Sweet_destruction

Facebook: /NisaRodriguez

Sandy Ryan defends her WBO Welterweight crown against Terri Harper in a huge all-British World Title clash on the undercard of Dalton Smith vs. Jose Zepeda at the Utilita Arena Sheffield this Saturday March 23, live worldwide on DAZN. 

The Derby native (6-1-1, 2 KOs) would have relished a shot at becoming a two-weight World Champion against her Denaby Main rival – who holds the WBA Super-Welterweight World Title – but will instead have to make do with defending her own gold for the second time.

“We tried to get it at her weight but she didn’t want it at her weight so I’m defending my title,” said Ryan. “That’s just the facts. Of course I would have liked to have fought for her belt. I wouldn’t mind being a two-weight World Champion. They wanted to fight for my belt so they’ve still got their belt at 154lbs after the fight.”

Ryan will be looking to bounce back from a controversial split decision draw against WBC and WBA World Champion Jessica McCaskill in Orlando last September. The 30-year-old was left bitterly disappointed following her World Title unification clash having felt she did enough to earn a career-best win.

“Obviously I didn’t get the Jessica McCaskill rematch that everyone wanted to see. I needed another big fight to get me going. This is the one. Everyone saw that I won the fight but it’s not on my record is it and I haven’t got all the belts around me. I’ve learnt from it and it’s brought me to where I am now.

“I don’t want to fight someone who nobody knows. They asked if I wanted to take the fight with Terri and I just said yes straight away. The British fans are loving it; two British females, two World Champions – so it’s quite a big fight in the UK. ‘And Still’, that’s all I keep visualising.

“I think at this stage every fight is a must-win. I’ve just got to train hard like I have done and be fully prepared. She’s a good boxer. She’s good at the basics. She’s going to be fit, she’s going to be strong, she’s always in shape. I’m expecting her to come ready.”

Following the frustration of her US debut, Ryan made the decision to part ways with her entire management and training team. The former Team GB standout is now managed by Brian Peters – manager to Irish icon Katie Taylor – and trained by Emanuel ‘Flick’ Savoy at the DLX gym in Las Vegas.

“At the end of last year a lot of changes happened in my career. I changed management, changed trainers and moved out here.  made the decision to bring myself away from the UK. I feel it works better for me to be out of the UK to do a training camp. I feel like I’m fully focused. I’ve come here and I’m training really hard. 

“I just love the way they work here in the gym. They really break things down. At this level that’s just what I need. Even in sparring, you’ve got to work on certain things making sure your shots are perfect. Keep doing them and doing them until I get the shots right. I’ve got all of the fundamentals and stuff, but I never really worked on them continuously until stepping in this gym.

“Before my last fight, I came out here like four weeks to finish camp off and I loved it. The people in the gym, we got along really well. They were just welcoming me to come back and it was a great decision that I made. 

“It’s alright being away from home. As you know, I used to go to Portugal and stuff – but that’s like a 2-hour flight. This is literally like 11-hour flights. It kind of feels a bit different. I can’t just go home at the weekend. That’s probably been a bit of a mental challenge as well, but I’ve got a really good team around me right now and I’m happy.”

Ryan vs. Harper is part of a huge night of action in Sheffield, the Steel City’s fast-rising Super-Lightweight contender Dalton Smith (15-0, 11 KOs) steps up against the USA’s three-time World Title challenger Jose Zepeda ( 37-4, 28 KOs) for the WBC Silver Title, it’s Leeds against Darlington as Ishmael Davis (12-0, 6 KOs) and TroyWilliamson (20-2-1, 14 KOs) meet in a Final Eliminator for the British Super-Welterweight Title,  Hyde’s Campbell Hatton (14-0, 5 KOs) goes for his first title when he meets Doncaster’s James Flint (13-1-2, 3 KOs) for the Central Area Super-Lightweight Title, Mansfield’s Nico Leivars (5-0-1) takes on Southend’s Piotr Mirga (7-2) in a Final Eliminator for the English Bantamweight Title, Sheffield Light-Heavyweight Liam Cameron (22-5, 9 KOs) returns after his first-round win over Harry Matthews last month, Newham Super-Welterweight prospect Leli Buttigieg (2-0, 1 KO) fights for the second time this year and Cusworth Middleweight Connan Murray (6-0, 1 KO) kicks off the Before The Bell action.