Jeovanis Barraza goes to 23-1 in his U.S. debut

SALEM, Mass. (October 30, 2021) – Colombian Welterweight Champion Jeovanis “Meque” Barraza (22-1, 15 KOs) defeated Argentinian southpaw Jorge “Tomatito” Martin Garcia (13-7-1, 6 KOs) by way of an 8-round unanimous decision to capture the vacant ABF Continental Americas super welterweight title in the headliner on last night’s “Down & Dirty” card, presented by Reyes Boxing Club at Melrose Memorial Hall in Melrose, Massachusetts.

“Down & Dirty,” New England’s only ongoing pro boxing series, streamed live and exclusively on throwdownsports.com.

“A+ effort by all the fighters, B delivery by the promotional team, because we started an hour late,” promoter Michael Reyes commented. “The main event was wonderful, 8 hard fought rounds for a title. Garcia has one helluva heart. He’s a champion. ‘Meque’ did his job. He saw some things he needs to work on that we’ve talked about in the gym. Overall, it was a great experience.”

Colombia and Argentina are bitter archrivals in sports like a South American version, albeit in boxing, of the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees.

Both main event fighters made their United States debuts. The more skilled Barraza was tested by the tough, determined Garcia, but Barraza’s blistering body shots consistently set up his powerful head shots.

In the sixth round, Barraza’s constant pressure and effective combinations eventually wore down a tiring Garcia, who landed on the canvas twice, but he wouldn’t stay down. The seventh round was batting practice for Barraza, who hit Garcia with everything but the kitchen sink. Despite a vicious body assault that brought Garcia to his knees, he rose once again and somehow survived until the very end.

“It was a really good fight,” Barraza said after his fight. “He (Garcia) was tougher than I thought he would be. The big news is that I’m fighting here in the United States for the first time and leaving with a title belt.”

Barraza, who pitched a near shutout (80-69, 80-69, 79-70), collected another title belt and, more importantly, came out of the fight unscathed and sharp for his Nov. 13th showdown in Anaheim (CA) with Alexis Rocha (17-1, 11 KOs) in the co-feature on a DAZN show, presented by Golden Boy Promotions, and headlined by Jamie Munguia vs. Gabriel Rosato.

“I don’t have to change a thing,” Barraza noted. “I can continue my training for this fight, especially sparring, because I can continue with the same guys I sparred for this fight.”

In the co-featured event, ABF Atlantic Middleweight Champion Anthony “Big Daddy” Hines (7-0, 4 KOs) successfully made his first defense of the title he captured this past June, against Fidel Monterrosa Munoz (39-26-1, 31 KOs), the former Colombian Light Heavyweight Champion.

Fighting out of the Boston district of Dorchester, Hines came out jabbing and moving laterally during the first two rounds against the Colombian knockout artist, picking up the pace in the third, in which Hines floored Munoz with a strong right. Munoz claimed he was illegally hit behind his head in the fourth and the fight was temporarily halted for the doctor to check him out. The action continued after a couple of minutes. The fight was delayed in the fifth round due to an accidental head butt that sent Munoz to the deck and Hines suffering the most damage in what was a chippy fight.

R harney_hines_munoz012.JPG
Anthony Hines remained undefeated and retained his ABF Atlantic title belt

Also fighting out of Dorchester, lightweight Jonathan DePina (5-1, 4 KOs) wore down a gutsy Stacey Anderson (0-8), eventually putting him away in the third round, DePina cracked his opponent with a counter right for the initial knockdown. Moments later it was all she wrote for Anderson, who was trapped in a neutral corner, and battered until he went down for good.

Popular Lowell (MA) fighter Gabriel “Menace” Morales (3-0, 2 KOs), a carpenter by trade, displayed everything in his toolbox to the delight of his loud, enthusiastic fanbase, stopping journeyman Pablo DeSouza (0-24) in the second round. A natural lightweight, Morales cutdown welterweight DeSouza, first with a left hook in the second, soon followed by a right sending him to the mat once again. DeSouza stood before the referee’s count hit 10, but he was clearly unable to continue.

Undefeated Dominican Republic lightweight prospect Alejandro “El Abusador” Paulino (4-0, 4 KOs), fighting out of New London (CT), outclassed a much more experienced fighter in Italy native Christian “El Ninja” Danilo Guido (8-20, 6 KOs). Paulino floored Guido at the end of round one and closed the show in the second, decking Guido three more times, the last with a perfectly executed uppercut with time running out for a technical knockout.

Dallas heavyweight Vercell Webster (2-4-1, 2 KOs) upset previously Dennis Ventura (4-1, 3 KOs) by way of a 4th-round technical knockout. Webster dropped Ventura with a straight right to the temple in the first round and a game Ventura never really recovered. The same shot to the head, landed in the same (red) corner, decked Ventura again. He beat the count, but referee Melissa Kelly didn’t like the way Ventura responded, and she stopped the fight.

Opening the action, Providence heavyweight Sean Bey improved to 3-0 (3 KOs) when pro-debuting Brandon Grundy was severely handicapped by right hand injury suffered midway through the opening round. After the ring doctor examined him, the fight continued briefly as Bey unloaded a series of unanswered punches on a trapped on the ropes Grundy, until referee Kevin Hope waved off the fight at the 2:24 mark of round one.

Official results below:


OFFICIAL RESULTS

MAIN EVENT – ABF CONTINENTAL AMERICAS SUPER WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Jeovanis Barraza (23-1, 15 KOs), Barranquilla, Colombia

WDEC8 (8069, 80-69, 79-70)

Jorge Martin Garcia (13-8-1, 6 KOs), General Lavalle, Buenos Aires, Argentina

(Barraza won ABF Continental Americas super welterweight title)

CO-FEATURE — ABF ATLANTIC MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Anthony Hines (8-0, 4 KOs), Dorchester, MA

WDEC6 (58-54, 57-55, 57-54)

Fidel Monterrosa Munoz (39-27-1, 31 KOs), Barranquilla, Colombia

(Hines retained the ABF Atlantic middleweight title)

HEAVYWEIGHTS

Vercell Webster (1-4-1, 1 KO), Dallas, TX

WTKO4 (0 :37)

Dennis Ventura (4-0, 3 KOs), Lynn, MA

Sean Bey (3-0, 3 KOs), Providence, RI

WTKO1 (2:24)

Brandon Grundy (0-1), Megehee, AR

WELTERWEIGHTS

Gabriel Morales (3-0, 2 KOs), Lowell, MA

WTKO2 (2:24)

Paulo DeSouza (0-24), Woburn, MA

SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS

Jonathan DePina (6-1, 4 KOs), Dorchester, MA

WTKO3 (1:03)

Stacey Anderson (0-8), Albuquerque, NM

LIGHTWEIGHTS

Alexandro Paulino (5-0, 5 KOs), New London, CT by way of Dominican Republic

WTKO2 (2:58)

Christian Danilo Guido (8-21, 6 KOs), Tigre, Buenos Aires, Argentina by way of Italy


INFORMATION:

Website: www.ReyesBoxingClub, www.AFightingChanceinc.org

Twitter: @boxing_inc

Instagram: @ReyesBoxing, @FightingChance501c3

LinkedIn: @MichaelReyes

Facebook: /MichaelReyes, /ReyesBoxingInc, #FightingChance501c3




WOJCICKI BACK IN ACTION AGAINST PAVLOV ON DECEMBER 3

Patrick Wojcicki (14-0-1, 5 KOs) is the latest addition to a major night of boxing in Ilsenburg, Germany on December 3 as the Wolfsburg fighter, who is in line to face Gennady Golovkin for his Middleweight World Titles, takes on domestic rival Alexander Pavlov (12-2, 9 KOs).

For Wojcicki, this fight brings an end to a frustrating two year period that saw two eliminators to meet world ruler Golovkin cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic and injury. The IBF #3 has retained his ranking and will now look to secure his shot at world glory with a victory over the big-punching Pavlov.

“I can’t wait to get back out there,” said Wojcicki. “It’s been really hard not boxing over the pandemic. I’ve so much energy and aggression to let out on fight night. I’m so excited just to be back in the ring. World Titles are my goal, but first I have an opponent with a lot of knockouts on his record I have to take care of – which I will.”

Wojcicki is fighting as part of a huge night of action in Ilsenburg, which is the first in a series of high-profile events to take place in Germany following a ground-breaking new partnership between powerhouse promoter Wasserman Boxing and major global boxing and media company Probellum.

The card also features Denis Radovan defending his IBF European Middleweight Title against former World Title challenger Brian Rose and the return of Super Welterweight star Abass Baraou versus Meriton Karaxha.

“Huge international fights and domestic dust ups – this card is getting better and better and we haven’t finished yet,” said promoter Kalle Sauerland. “In addition to Denis Radovan and Abass Baraou we now have another future world champion Patrick Wojcicki in action. This will be a special night of boxing.”

Tickets for the Wasserman Boxing and Probellum event on December 3 in Ilsenburg are available via www.eventim.de/artist/internationale-boxgala




CAMERON VS. MCGEE WEIGHTS AND RUNNING ORDER

16:50 BST LIVE ON BEFORE THE BELL

4 x 3 mins International Heavyweight contest
THOMAS CARTY 18st 3lbs v IGORS VASILJEVS 15st 11lbs 11oz        
(Dublin, Ireland)                      (Riga, Latvia)

followed by

6 x 3 mins Light-Heavyweight contest
JOHN HEDGES 12st 10lbs 8oz  v BEN THOMAS 12st 11lbs 12oz                 
(Takeley, England)                         (Bolton, England)

followed by

6 x 3 mins International Cruiserweight contest
JORDAN THOMPSON 14st 3lbs 6oz v PIOTR PODLUCKI 13st 13lbs 5oz            
(Manchester, England)                          (Warsaw, Poland)

followed by

8 x 2 mins International Super-Bantamweight contest
ELLIE SCOTNEY 8st 11lbs 8oz v EVA CANTOS 8st 10lbs 13oz               
(Catford, England)                         (Elda, Spain)

followed by

19:00 BST LIVE ON DAZN

10 x 3 mins vacant WBC International Silver Super-Featherweight Title
YOUSSEF KHOUMARI 9st 3lbs 4oz v JORGE CASTANEDA 9st 2lbs 15oz                 
(Wembley, England)                              (Texas, USA)

followed by

10 x 3 mins vacant WBA International Light-Heavyweight Title
CRAIG RICHARDS 12st 7lbs v MAREK MATYJA 12st 6lbs 7oz                
(Crystal Palace, England)         (Wroclaw, Poland)

followed by

6 x 3 mins International Heavyweight contest
JOHNNY FISHER 17st 4lbs 2oz v ALVARO TERRERO 16st 12lbs                  
(Romford, England)                        (Cadiz, Spain)

followed by

8 x 3 mins International Heavyweight contest
ALEN BABIC 15st 4lbs 5oz v ERIC MOLINA 18st 5lbs                 
(Zagreb, Croatia)                     (Texas, USA)

followed by

10 x 2 mins WBC, IBF and Ring Magazine Super-Lightweight World Titles
CHANTELLE CAMERON 9st 13lbs 9oz v MARY MCGEE 9st 13lbs 10oz                 
(Northampton, England)                            (Indiana, USA)




JAMES VS. BUTAEV OFFICIAL WEIGHTS

WBA Welterweight World Title – 12 Rounds

Jamal James – 145.2 lbs.

Radzhab Butaev – 146.2 lbs.

Referee: Celestino Ruiz; Judges: Max DeLuca (Calif.), Patricia Morse Jarman (Nev.), Don Trella (Conn.)

Welterweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Jaron Ennis – 146.6 lbs.

Thomas Dulorme – 146 lbs.

Referee: Mike Ortega; Judges: Tim Cheatham (Nev.), Dave Moretti (Nev.), John McKaie (N.Y.)

Lightweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Michel Rivera – 138 lbs.

Matias Romero – 135.4 lbs.

Referee: Robert Hoyle; Judges: Max DeLuca (Calif.), Lisa Giampa (Nev.), David Sutherland (Okla.)

# # #

ABOUT JAMES VS. BUTAEV

James vs. Butaev will see WBA Welterweight Champion Jamal “Shango” James defend his title against unbeaten contender Radzhab Butaev in a 12-round duel that headlines a night of action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, October 30 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features rising welterweight star Jaron “Boots” Ennis in a 10-round showdown against veteran contender Thomas Dulorme in the co-main event. Kicking off the telecast, exciting unbeaten lightweight contender Michel Rivera faces Argentina’s Matías Romero in a 10-round attraction.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. Ennis vs. Dulorme is promoted in association with D&D Boxing. Rivera vs. Romero is promoted in association with Sampson Boxing.

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




GLOBAL STAR JAKE PAUL TO FACE UNDEFEATED PROFESSIONAL BOXER TOMMY FURY ON SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18 ON SHOWTIME PPV®

NEW YORK (OCTOBER 29, 2021) – International super star Jake “The Problem Child” Paul will face undefeated professional boxer and U.K. reality TV star Tommy “TNT” Fury in a sanctioned eight-round cruiserweight bout after months of heated back-and-forth between the two men. Paul and Fury will headline a SHOWTIME PPV event on Saturday, December 18 at the Amalie Arena in Tampa, Fla. The main event bout will be contested at a 192-pound catchweight, as Paul continues to challenge himself and deliver on his promise to disrupt the combat sports industry. 

On the heels of an impressive performance against former mixed martial arts world champion Tyron Woodley in August, Paul looks forward to his fifth professional boxing match as he takes a sizable step up in competition and puts his undefeated record on the line. Paul, the social media sensation, has garnered unprecedented attention for a young boxer since he entered the ring against NBA star Nate Robinson and defeated him with a show-stopping knockout that made headlines around the world. Paul is now taking the next step in his young career as he goes after Love Island reality TV star Fury, the younger brother of WBC Heavyweight World Champion Tyson Fury. 

Paul and Fury will meet for the first time since their fight was announced on Saturday, November 6 in Las Vegas and will make an additional appearance in Tampa on Monday, November 8. More details on both events to follow.

Titled #PaulFury: One Will Fall, the event is produced and presented by Most Valuable Promotions and SHOWTIME PPV and promoted in association with Tony Holden Productions. The pay-per-view telecast begins live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and is produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV and it will feature other exciting high-stakes, professional boxing matches which will be announced in the coming weeks.

Tickets for the live event will be available for purchase on Wednesday, November 10, at www.amaliearena.com

The 24-year-old Paul (4-0, 3 KOs) is a world-renowned content creator. He began his professional boxing journey in January 2020 and has proven to be an influential participant in the sport’s landscape with his outsized personality and quickly developing skill set. The Cleveland-native is fighting out of Puerto Rico under the eye of former boxing cruiserweight contender and world title challenger B.J. Flores, who has been training Paul from his first professional fight. After knocking out British YouTube star AnEsonGib in his debut and defeating Robinson with a knockout heard around the world, Paul made quick work of former MMA champion Ben Askren in April with a first-round knockout. The win over Askren was Paul’s first victory over a seasoned professional fighter and he followed it up with an impressive performance against Woodley, arguably his most dangerous opponent to date. 

“I started my professional boxing career less than two years ago on January 30th, 2020. Four fights, three pay-per-views, two as the headliner, and one sold-out arena, I’m looking forward to my toughest challenge yet and continuing to prove the critics wrong,” said Paul. “Fight a real boxer they’ve said, and that is exactly what I’m doing. An undefeated boxer from the legendary Fury bloodline. However, this one is more than just boxing for me. It’s for America and showing the world there is no other country that gives you the opportunity to achieve whatever you set your mind to. It’s for every young person who has a dream and dedicates their life to achieving it.  On December 18th I’m continuing to fulfill my dreams and turning a Fury into a Fumbles.”

Fighting out of Manchester, England, Fury started boxing at 12 years old. With 12 amateur bouts, he won two regional titles and reached the U.K. national final in 2016. Fury’s first professional fight came in 2018, a win by decision. From there he proceeded to knockout or TKO his next four opponents and put the boxing world on notice. He has fought three times in 2021, including his U.S. debut on Paul’s undercard in August, where the 22-year-old earned his seventh victory against Anthony Taylor. Paul is clearly facing his biggest challenge to date in the undefeated Fury (7-0, 4 KOs), who comes from a renowned family of boxers and has been trained by British star Ricky Hatton.

“Jake Paul is about to learn a serious life lesson. This is my world, and he doesn’t belong here,” said Fury. “I’m not one of these MMA men or basketball players, I have been boxing my whole life. On December 18th I will show the world the difference between a YouTuber and a real fighting man. Thanks to my promoter Frank Warren, Most Valuable Promotions and Showtime for giving me the opportunity to shut this clown up once and for all.”

#PaulFury: One Will Fall is the second live sporting event co-produced by Most Valuable Promotions, a company founded by Paul and Nakisa Bidarian on the premise that content is king, and fighters are the content creators in combat sports. Paul and Bidarian serve as Executive Producers of the #PaulFury event.

# # #

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




Weigh-In Results: Jose Zepeda vs. Josue Vargas & Carlos Caraballo vs. Jonas Sultan

(ESPN+, Approximately 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT)

    •    Jose Zepeda 139.4 lbs vs. Josue Vargas 139 lbs 
(Zepeda’s WBC Silver Super Lightweight Title — 10 Rounds)

•    Carlos Caraballo 117.6 lbs vs. Jonas Sultan 117.6 lbs 
(Vacant WBO Intercontinental Bantamweight Title — 10 Rounds)

(ESPN+, 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT)

•   Jonathan Guzman 123 lbs vs. Carlos Jackson 123 lbs 
(Junior Featherweight — 8 Rounds)

   •    Mathew Gonzalez 143 lbs vs. Dakota Linger 141.8 lbs
 
(Junior Welterweight — 6 Rounds)

   •    Pablo Valdez 148.4 lbs vs. Alejandro Martinez 148.6 lbs
 
(Welterweight — 6 Rounds)

   •       Jahi Tucker 147.6 lbs vs. Jorge Rodrigo Sosa 145.2 lbs
 
(Welterweight — 6 Rounds)
  •       Ray Cuadrado 129.6 lbs vs. Michael Land 129.4 lbs
 
(Junior Lightweight — 4 Rounds)
   •      Kasir Goldston 142 lbs vs. Marc Misiura 142.2 lbs
 
(Junior Welterweight — 4 Rounds)




RONNY RIOS & ALEXIS ROCHA MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES

SANTA ANA, CA (October 29) – Brothers, and Orange County natives Ronny Rios (33-3, 16KOs) and Alexis “Lex” Rocha (17-1, 11KOs) will hosted a media workout at their gym TKO Boxing Club in Santa Ana, CA. The contenders were on hand to talk about their upcoming fight while hosting fans, friends, and family to a good showcase of their boxing skills as their prepare for their upcoming matches. Ronny Rios, is the mandatory challenger for the WBA and IBF Super Bantamweight world titles and will be challenging Murodjon Akhmadaliev (9-0, 7 KOs) for the crowns on November 19 as the co-main event of Andrade vs. Quigley, live on DAZN. Alexis “Lex” Rocha will be featured as the co-main event for Munguia vs. Rosado on November 13 at the Honda Center. He will be facing Jeovanis Barraza (22-1, 15KOs) of Barranquilla, Colombia, in a 10-round welterweight fight, also live on DAZN. 

Also, in attendance were rising Southern California prospects Alejandro Reyes (4-0, 3KOs) and Jorge Chavez who will be fighting on the Munguia vs. Rosado undercard on November 13 as part of the Golden Boy Fight Night broadcast on Facebook Watch. Alejandro Reyes of Los Angeles will participate in a 4-round super lightweight fight against Osmel Mayorga (2-2, 1KO) of Miami, Fl and San Diego’s, Jorge Chavez, will make his pro-debut in a 4-round super featherweight bout against Mexico City’s Gilberto Aguilar (0-3). 

Ronny Rios, Mandatory WBA & IBF World Super Bantamweight Challenger 

“I go into every fight with nothing to lose and everything to gain. I don’t care about the hype or the negativity. I am just going in there to get the job don and I am having fun with it.

“I took a break, stopped coming to the gym for 6 months, but deep down inside I missed it. I spoke to my wife and I told her ‘I feel like I can still do it. I feel like the passion is still there.’

“Obviously, I have the experience. I have been doing this for such a long time. I am going to go out there, execute it, and whatever people have to say, let them say it. It doesn’t affect me.

“I am in full ‘camp life’ mode. Alexis and I are working out together, resting together, we are completely focused.

“You can’t over think these fights anymore. A lot of people don’t know and fighters don’t talk about what goes on behind closed doors. The mental battles we face with doubt and nerves, all that stuff can start to creep up. Now, for me, it’s whatever. I have nothing to loose, this next fight I have everything to gain.

“The game plan is to win. That is all that matters.”

Alexis “Lex” Rocha, Welterweight Contender 

“I am happy to be back at the Honda Center, fighting in my hometown. Last time I fought at the Honda Center, it took me by surprise the fan base that came out to support me. It was an electrifying night. I feel that this time around there will be more fans so I am excited.

“I am in a good mental space. I believe in myself more and I am not holding myself back. My confidence has skyrocketed since my last fight. The fans will see that on November 13.

“You have to move on from fights. I take the good and the bad and I move forward. That’s really shaped me into the fighter I am today.”


Alejando Reyes, Lightweight Prospect

“I keep working in the gym and listen to my trainers. You never stop learning. I have four fights under me and I still have a lot room to improve and grow.

“It’s a blessing to be at West Boxing Club, the gym is well known and has been around for a long time. The gym backing me, as well as my friends and family, pushes me to train harder and put on a great show for everyone.

Jorge Chavez, Featherweight Prospect

“My pro-debut is a long time coming, I am very excited. I am soon to be ‘The Pride of San Diego.’

“I got go put in the work and proved that I deserve this opportunity. I have been sparring with Ronny Rios and Alexis Rocha and they have taught me a few things, some veteran moves. It takes more than just conditioning to be up there fighting a world champion.

Munguia vs. Rosado is a 12-round fight for the WBO Intercontinental Middleweight Title presented by Golden Boy in association with Zanfer Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate “The Official Beer of Boxing,” Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle,” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Saturday, November 13, and live exclusively on DAZN worldwide, excluding Mexico, starting at 6:00 p.m. PT / 9:00 p.m. ET.
 
Rios vs. Akhmadaliev is a 12-round fight for the WBA and IBF Super Bantamweight World Championships. The event will be the co-main event to Andrade vs. Quigley, presented by Matchroom Boxing in association with Golden Boy, live on DAZN on November 19. 
 
Tickets for Munguia vs. Rosado are on sale now and are priced at $250, $150, $100, and $50 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase at ticketmaster.com. Please note that California Department of Health guidelines and other protocols relating to admission requirements may be in place for this event, which may include a requirement that all guests show proof of a negative COVID-19 test or full vaccination status.
 
Tickets for Rios vs. Akhmadaliev, are on sale now starting at $30 not including applicable service charges and are available via ticketmaster.com. Media interested in covering this event in New Hampshire can apply for credentials using this link: https://form.jotform.com/212764468829369
 
For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #MunguiaRosado.
 




IBF Junior Welterweight Champion “Merciless” Mary McGee Takes on WBC Champion Chantelle Cameron in a Unification Bout on Saturday in London

New York (October 29, 2021)–IBF Junior Welterweight World champion “Merciless” Mary McGee will take on Undefeated WBC champion Chantelle Cameron in a much anticipated unification bout on Saturday at The O2 Arena in London.

The Ring Magazine Belt will also be on the line.

The fight will headline a card that will be streamed LIVE on DAZN (2 PM ET).

The bout is part of a tournament that will crown an undisputed champion as WBA champion Kali Reis will take on Jessica Camara on November 19th in New Hampshire. The vacant WBO Title will also be at stake.

McGee of Gary, Indiana is managed by Split-T Management under the guidance of Brian Cohen, and has an outstanding record of 27-3 with 19 knockouts.

The 35 year-old McGee is a 16 year-professional, and had an early win over Kristi Follmer (16-1). Mary won the IBF Title with a 10th round stoppage over Ana Laura Esteche on December 5, 2019. She has defended the title once by stopping Deanha Hobbs (8-1) in nine rounds on February 8, 2020 in Hammond, Indiana.

Cameron, 30 of Northampton, England, has a record of 14-0 with eight knockouts.

Cameron is a four-year professional, who has wins over Edith Ramos (5-1-1), Viviane Obenauf (12-3), Anahai Ester Sanchez (19-4). Cameron won the WBC title on October 4, 2020 with a 10-round unanimous decision over Adriana Dos Santos Araujo (6-0) in England. Like McGee, she has one title defense, and that was a 5th round stoppage over Melissa Hernandez on May 29th in Las Vegas,.

Mary McGee–Press Conference Quotes

“I’ve trained really hard for this fight; I knew a long time ago that I would be fighting Chantelle because I would listen to her saying she wanted to fight one of the champions – I made sure I prepared for her from that day. When I was offered this fight, I was excited because I knew I could sit next to Eddie Hearn.

“I knew that sitting next to Eddie Hearn, and with Matchroom, was one of the pinnacles of boxing. So, to be a female fighter who used to sell tickets out of her car all night just to get a fight, to sitting up here, I’m more than ready. It’s going to be an exciting fight.

“I started boxing when I was 14, I stayed amateur for maybe five years, after winning the golden gloves a couple years in a row, I needed to make a living for myself, so I went pro. They said you could make $100 a round boxing; it was what I loved to do so I said, ‘hey this sounds like a steal for me’. As I got better and kept winning, I realized that my opponents cost more money, so I had to get out and sell tickets night and day just to get on the card and make sure my opponent got paid.

“I know it’s going to be a tough fight; I’ve watched her beat the hell out of girls and I thought, ‘yeah, I’ve got to make sure I get out there and do my real work’. She’s not coming to lose, I made sure I worked hard for her. I take this fight very seriously.

“I don’t believe so, some of the girls she fought, like the girls she got the title from, she came overweight and out of shape. Chantelle beat her but I can beat someone who’s overweight and out of shape too. Melissa is a good champion, but at Featherweight. I’m a natural Super-Lightweight so I know I have a better chance than those other girls.

“I didn’t come all the way across the pond just to get beat, it’s going to be a rumble in the jungle, like in the Ali days, she’s not going to just beat me believe that.”

McGee, who is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, weighed 139.6 lbs while Cameron was 139.5

If Victorious, McGee will join Teofimo Lopez as Split-T Management fighters who hold the Ring Magazine Title.

Photos: Mark Robinson/Matchroom Boxing




November 5: Luis Melendez-Thomas Mattice Junior Lightweight Showdown Added as Co-Feature to Mikaela Mayer-Maiva Hamadouche Card at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas and LIVE on ESPN+

LAS VEGAS (Oct. 29, 2021) — Junior lightweights Luis Melendez and Thomas Mattice stayed ready. The contenders, on less than two weeks’ notice, agreed to face off Friday, Nov. 5 in the eight-round co-feature to the Mikaela Mayer-Maiva Hamadouche title unification tilt at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, part of Curio Collection by Hilton.
 
Melendez-Mattice replaces the Janibek Alimkhanuly-Hassan N’Dam middleweight showdown, which has been postponed to a later date.

The entire card will stream live and exclusively in the United States on ESPN+ at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Matchroom Boxing and OPI Since 82, tickets starting at $25 are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting AXS.com.
 
Melendez (16-1, 13 KOs), from Puerto Rico, turned pro with a first-round knockout on a Top Rank card in July 2018. The only blemish on his pro ledger came via split decision defeat in his third pro fight in September 2018. Since that setback, Melendez is 14-0 with 11 knockouts, including eight victories since last December. Mattice (17-2-1, 13 KOs), from Cleveland, Ohio, is no stranger to American boxing fans. He has won two straight fights since a February 2020 majority decision loss to rising lightweight Isaac Cruz on a nationally televised card.
 
“I’m grateful to Top Rank and ESPN for this opportunity, and I’m coming to give the fight fans a great show,” Melendez said. “When you stay ready, good things happen. I’m always in the gym and in shape, and I give credit to Mattice for being ready as well.”
 
Mattice said, “I’ve been staying ready, and when the opportunity came to fight Melendez, I did not hesitate. Everybody has been turning me down at 130 pounds. This is a big opportunity.”
 
In a special feature, undefeated Las Vegas-born junior lightweight Andres “Savage” Cortes will battle Mark Bernaldez in an eight-rounder. Cortes (15-0, 8 KOs) notched more than 100 wins as an amateur, including a pair of triumphs over current undisputed lightweight champion Teofimo Lopez. His professional breakthrough came in August in Tulsa, Oklahoma, when he knocked out former world title challenger Genesis Servania in one round. That was the first time Servania had been knocked out in 37 professional fights. Bernaldez (23-4, 17 KOs) is a 10-year pro from the Philippines who has won three straight fights by knockout since a July 2020 decision defeat to Albert Bell.

Cortes said, “This is a huge opportunity to show out in front of my fans in Las Vegas. After my big win against Servania, I am coming to do a number on Bernaldez.”
 
In other undercard action:

  • Joseph “Blessed Hands” Adorno (14-0-2, 12 KOs) returns in a scheduled eight-round lightweight contest against Damian “El Macho” Araujo (21-3, 8 KOs). Adorno is coming off a pair of draws, including a Fight of the Year contender in April versus fellow unbeaten Jamaine Ortiz. Araujo last fought in April, losing a decision to then-unbeaten junior welterweight prospect Omar Juarez.
     
  • Abdullah Mason, a 17-year-old lightweight prodigy from Cleveland, will make his professional debut in a four-rounder against Florida native Jaylan Phillips (1-0, 1 KO). Mason, considered one of America’s top amateur talents, signed with Top Rank earlier this month and is managed by James Prince.
     
  • Unbeaten middleweight prospect Tyler “Hercules” Howard (19-0, 11 KOs) returns from a nearly year-long layoff to fight the upset-minded Ian Green (14-2, 11 KOs) in an eight-rounder. Howard was last seen on the Terence Crawford-Kell Brook undercard grinding out an eight-round decision over KeAndrae Leatherwood.

About Virgin Hotels Las Vegas 
Virgin Hotels Las Vegas is a reimagined and re-conceptualized casino resort. The property is part of Curio Collection by Hilton. The integrated resort intermixes a passion for food and beverage with music and culture and features three hotel towers totaling over 1,500 Chambers and suites; the 60,000 sq. ft. Mohegan Sun Casino, operated by Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment; a five-acre desert pool oasis including Élia Beach Club and a multi-functional event lawn; live music and entertainment theater with 4,500 capacity; 24 Oxford showroom accommodating 650 guests; an exclusive portfolio of twelve food and beverage venues including Todd English’s Olives, Kris Yenbamroong’s Night + Market, the legendary Nobu, Michael and David Morton’s One Steakhouse, Kassi Beach House from restauranteur Nick Mathers, Casa Calavera by global hospitality company Hakkasan Group, the sports entertainment, daylife and nightlife venue Money, Baby! from Justin Massei and Mikis Troyan of Clive Collective, famous Afters Ice Cream, Pizza Forte by the Ferraro Family and signature Virgin Hotels restaurants and bars including The Kitchen at Commons Club, The Bar at Commons Club, The Shag Room and Funny Library Coffee Shop. The property is owned by JC Hospitality, LLC, in partnership with Juniper Capital Partners, Virgin Group, LiUNA, Fengate Asset Management, Dream and Orlando Development. The off Strip playground is located at 4455 Paradise Road. For more information, visit www.virginhotelslv.com
 
About Virgin Hotels 
Virgin Hotels is a lifestyle hospitality brand that combines heartfelt service, straightforward value, and a seamless, personalized hotel experience with the track record of innovation and smart disruption that Sir Richard Branson’s global Virgin Group has pioneered for 50 years. Each property intermixes a passion for food and beverage with music and culture, fusing with the local landscape and providing a vibrant and inclusive environment for travelers and locals alike. Virgin Hotels Chicago – named the “#1 Hotel in the United States” in 2016 and “#1 Hotel in Chicago” in 2016, 2017, and 2020 by the Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards – Virgin Hotels Dallas – named the “#16 Hotel in Texas” – Virgin Hotels Nashville, Virgin Hotels New Orleans and Virgin Hotels Las Vegas are now open. Locations in New York, Miami, Edinburgh and Glasgow to follow. Virgin Hotels continues to explore hotel and office conversions and ground-up development in Boston, Los Angeles, Austin, Seattle, and London.
 
About Curio Collection by Hilton 
Curio Collection by Hilton is a global portfolio of more than 100 one-of-a-kind hotels and resorts in nearly 30 countries and territories. Curio Collection properties offer guests authentic, curated experiences through distinctly local offerings and elevated amenities, while providing the benefits of Hilton and its award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors. Experience a positive stay at Curio Collection by Hilton by booking at curiocollection.com or through the industry-leading Hilton Honors appHilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits. Learn more about the brand at newsroom.hilton.com/curio, and follow Curio Collection by Hilton on FacebookInstagram and Twitter.
 
About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 14.9 million subscribers.
 
Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $6.99 a month (or $69.99 per year)
at ESPN.comESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices). It is also available as part of The Disney Bundle that gives subscribers access to Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu for $13.99/month (Hulu w/ads) or $19.99/month (Hulu w/o ads).
 




MCGEE – SHE’LL RUN BUT I’LL CHASE HER DOWN

Mary McGee plans on overwhelming Chantelle Cameron when they clash for the WBC, IBF and Ring Magazine Super-Lightweight World Titles at The O2 in London this Saturday October 30, live worldwide on DAZN

‘Merciless’ McGee (27-3, 15 KOs) comes into the fight with increased momentum, notching seven straight wins since her World Title loss in 2013 and picking up the IBF Super-Lightweight Title on the way. The American’s last win came via a ninth round TKO against Deanha Hobbs to retain her crown. 

“My relentlessness, my heart and my determination to not give up overwhelms certain opponents,” said McGee. “I guess they feel the power, but I’ve never thought in my mind that I’m that powerful. So for me, I feel as if she is going to run from me. She tells her game plan in interviews. I’m going to make her miss and make her pay. I already know what she’s going to do – she’s going to try to run and pot-shot. 

“I’m not Adriana Araujo. She came five pounds overweight. She was drained and she couldn’t pursue Chantelle. The last girl that she fought Melissa Hernandez shouldn’t even be fighting at 140lbs – she’s a great fighter but at 140lbs what can you do against someone who’s much bigger and stronger than you? It’s going to be a different fight. I know that she’s going to be doing a lot of running but I’m going to chase her down. 

“My experience allows me to look at certain things and understand what I can and can’t do. I’m not taking any more fights to lose. I’m coming over here to win. I’m going to fight hard – dog hard. If they think I’m going to just open up and let her hit me then they’ve got another thing coming. Nobody is stopping me. I’ve never been stopped in 31 fights and I’m not going to start now.

“My plan is to beat her, to overwhelm her. I want a fair decision if it goes to the judges. My plan is to do what I’ve trained to do round to round. I’m ready to win those belts. I want to win titles but I’m not just here to hold titles. I want to build a legacy for my son and myself. When I came back to boxing it was after I had my child. I decided that this was a way to make him proud of me.”

Cameron vs. McGee tops a big night of action Greenwich, ‘The Savage’ Alen Babic (8-0, 8 KOs) clashes with two-time World Title challenger Eric Molina (28-7, 20 KOs) over eight rounds, Craig Richards (16-2-1, 9 KOs) returns to the ring against Poland’s Marek Matyja (20-2-2, 9 KOs) after pushing WBA Light-Heavyweight World Champion Dmitry Bivol all the way in May, Youssef Khoumari (13-0-1, 5 KOs) takes on Jorge David Castaneda (14-1, 11 KOs) for the vacant WBC International Silver Super-Featherweight Title, ‘The Romford Bull’ Johnny Fisher (3-0, 3 KOs) faces Spain’s Alvaro Terrero (5-13-2, 3 KOs) in front of over 1,000 of his fans, Catford Super-Bantamweight Ellie Scotney (2-0) squares off against Eva Cantos (2-1) in her first fight with new trainer Shane McGuigan, Manchester Cruiserweight Jordan Thompson (10-0, 8 KOs) makes his Matchroom debut against Poland’s Piotr Podlucki (6-5, 2 KOs), Takeley Light-Heavyweight prospect John Hedges (3-0) meets Ben Thomas (2-7-3, 1 KO) over four rounds and Dublin Heavyweight Thomas Carty (1-0) has his second professional fight. 




CAOIMHIN AGYARKO PENS PROMOTIONAL DEAL WITH MATCHROOM BOXING

Undefeated Belfast Middleweight talent Caoimhin Agyarko has signed a long-term promotional deal with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing. 
 
‘Black Thunder’ (9-0, 6 KOs) harbours dreams of becoming Ireland’s first ever black World Champion and the 24-year-old former Holy Trinity amateur standout believes he now has the perfect team around him to achieve his goals after signing a management deal with STN Sports in September.
 
“I’m absolutely over the moon to have signed with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing,” said Agyarko. “I’m really excited about this next chapter in my career. I believe my manager Paul Ready has got me the perfect opportunity to showcase my skills and I have full belief that Matchroom will make me the first black Irish World Champion.”
 
“I’m delighted to welcome the exciting and dangerous Middleweight talent Caoimhin Agyarko to the Matchroom ranks,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “Caoimhin has a real viciousness to his fighting style and is sure to be a fan favourite for DAZN viewers all around the world. ‘Black Thunder’ has a remarkable story and I look forward to guiding him towards some huge nights in Belfast.” 
 
“I’m delighted to have secured this deal for Caoimhin,” said Director of STN Sports Paul Ready. “He’s a special fighter who can box and fight – those who don’t know about him soon will and are in for a treat. Special thanks to Shaun Palmer at Matchroom for the smooth process with this deal. Belfast we are coming!”
 
You can follow Agyarko’s journey on Twitter: @caoimhinagyarko and Instagram: blackthunder.ca




GERMAN STAR BARAOU FACES KARAXHA ON DECEMBER 3 IN ILSENBURG

German Super Welterweight star Abass Baraou (10-1, 7 KOs) returns to the ring on December 3 to face Meriton Karaxha (29-5-3, 10 KOs) as part of a huge night of action in Ilsenberg, Germany that also features the IBF European Middleweight Title showdown between Denis Radovan and Brian Rose.
 
With two of the country’s brightest boxing talents already confirmed and more names to be announced soon, December 3 marks the return of big-time boxing to Germany, and the first in a series of high-profile events to be promoted by Wasserman Boxing and major global boxing and media company Probellum.
 
Last time out Baraou, who is trained by renowned British coach Adam Booth, scored a devastating first round knockout, handing Jay Spencer his first ever stoppage loss with an impressive display in Klagenfurt, Austria on September 10. Returning to winning ways following a contentious loss to former World Champion Jack Culcay, the 27-year-old from Berlin can now continue his World Title charge as he tests his skills against the Belgium-based Albanian Karaxha.
 
“I‘m happy to be fighting in Germany again” said Baraou. “Having my fans and my family there motivates me even more. I‘ve been in training since my last fight so I feel great and excited to deliver another great performance in the ring. We can expect great shows in Germany now with Wasserman Boxing working together with Probellum, so get ready and I’ll see you soon!”
 
“First and foremost, I am extremely honoured to have the opportunity to fight against a world class opponent like Baraou” said ‘Mr T.N.T’ Karaxha, who is unbeaten in his last 13 contests. “Together with my team I am leaving for a training camp and for the next 5 weeks all my focus will be on this fight. I am coming to Germany to win and I strongly believe I will!’
 
“Together with our friends and partners at Probellum, we will be delivering big international fights in Germany for German boxers,” said promoter Kalle Sauerland. “Denis Radovan versus Brian Rose is a great fight generating a lot of interest, and now we are thrilled to add Abass Baraou against Meriton Karaxha to the bill. A future German World Champion against an explosive Albanian. This is the type of boxing Germany has missed during the pandemic, but now we’re back and bigger than before.”
 
“We are thrilled to be working with Wasserman Boxing on this huge event in Germany, and the addition of Abass Baraou vs. Meriton Karaxha makes it even bigger,” said Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum. “Germany can look forward to some massive shows over the next year, and having big names like Denis Radovan, Brian Rose and now Abass Baraou on the card next month is just the start of what is going to be a very exciting period.”
 
Tickets for the Wasserman Boxing and Probellum event on December 3 in Ilsenburg are available via www.eventim.de/artist/internationale-boxgala



KAISSE ‘GRANDMASTER FLASH’ BENJAMIN REVEALS HIS OTHER PASSION

Coventry, UK (29 October 2021) Unbeaten Birmingham ace Kaisee Benjamin is used to staying one step ahead of his opponents, but not just in the boxing ring.

Benjamin features on Hennessy Sports’ big show at the Coventry Skydome Arena on Saturday 13th November headlined by Shakan Pitters’ WBC Silver Light-Heavyweight title challenge against Reece Cartwright; River Wilson-Bent’s challenge for the Vacant English Middleweight title against Tyler Denny and Aaron McKenna in championship action, live and free on Channel 5.

Hot shot Benjamin firmly believes another of his favourite one-on-one sports will help him keep the rest of the super-lightweight division in check now.

Benjamin is the latest pugilist to reveal his other passion… chess.

Anthony Joshua, Terence Crawford and Oleksandr Usyk are well-known fans of ancient board game, and the Birmingham body shot sensation wants to make the same move as all three and be crowned a world champion.

The 26-year-old believes that playing the ultimate cerebral sport will make him an even better fighter in the ring now that he has added extra power to his arsenal with back-to-back stoppages in his last fights.

“I wouldn’t say I am a Grandmaster, but I do love chess,” he revealed.

“There’s no doubt it makes you a smarter person and an even smarter fighter – if you’re good at it.

“It doesn’t really give you a high IQ just like that, but what it does do is get you to think one, two, three steps ahead. That’s the name of the game.

“The more steps ahead you are, the less chance your opponent has. You can outsmart them and then trap them. You can see why a lot of boxers play it.”

The two sports have more similarities for Benjamin to contend with, though.

He is 15 fights into his professional career and had hoped to have more than the Midlands Area belt to his name having turned pro four years ago.

A new nutritional approach has enabled him to start a new chapter down in a new weight class and under the guidance of trainer Jon Pegg, is hoping it will be easier to test himself in the ring than on the chequered board.

“I don’t play chess all the time. I can’t find anyone to play,” he continued.

“I do have a chess app on my phone though and a chess board at home, of course. It’s just difficult to find someone to play against.

“There’s no-one to play in my house. I tried to teach my girlfriend how to play it, but she can’t get the hang of it.

“I’ve not played Jon yet. It sounds like, right now, that he’d beat me, but I’d like to play him and see where I am at.

“It’s the same with boxing. No-one wants to fight me, but I am hoping that down super-lightweight I will get more fights, more opportunities. I can’t wait.”

Benjamin doesn’t sport a nickname like most other fighters and is too modest to bring chess into the equation and be known as Kaisee ‘Grandmaster’ Benjamin.

He may never become the best chess player on the planet, but certainly sees it as a smart move to help him fulfil the ambition that drives him on.

“I want to become a world champion. That is everyone’s dream, and I am no different and will do it.

“Now I need to start taking steps up. I did think I would have more belts to my name by now, be it domestic or international and that is what I need to do.

“You will see a new me on November 13.”

Shakan Pitters v Reece Cartwright for the Vacant WBC International Light-Heavyweight Championship headlines the triple-title card that includes a fiery midlands derby between Coventry hot-shot River Wilson-Bent against Rowley Regis rival Tyler Denny for the Vacant English Middleweight Championship. Red hot Irish middleweight sensation Aaron ‘The Silencer’ McKenna will challenge for his first championship title. Aaron’s joins older brother Stevie ‘The Hitman’ McKenna who is lighting up the welterweight division with his dynamic and KO performances. The rest of the Hennessy All Stars team will be out in full force starting with Brixton cruiserweight ace Isaac Chamberlain, welterweight ace Kaisee Benjamin, Birmingham super-middleweight Idris Virgo; Sevenoaks highly talented super-welterweight Michael Hennessy Jr.; undefeated County Donegal middleweight starlet Brett McGinty and unbeaten Brighton heavyweight destroyer Tommy Welch.

Presented by Hennessy Sports in association with William Hill, Infinitum, Numan and Everlast, tickets are priced at £45, £55, £90 and £120 and are available from https://iceaccount.co.uk/wbc-championship-boxing-info

For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports




JAMAL JAMES VS. RADZHAB BUTAEV FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

LAS VEGAS (October 28, 2021) – WBA Welterweight Champion Jamal “Shango” James and unbeaten contender Radzhab Butaev went face-to-face at a final press conference Thursday before they meet in the SHOWTIME main event this Saturday, October 30 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

Thursday’s press conference also featured undefeated rising welterweight star Jaron “Boots” Ennis and veteran contender Thomas Dulorme, who meet in the co-main event, plus exciting unbeaten lightweight contender Michel Rivera and Argentina’s Matías Romero, who square off to open the telecast at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. Ennis vs. Dulorme is promoted in association with D&D Boxing. Rivera vs. Romero is promoted in association with Sampson Boxing.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

JAMAL JAMES

“We’re at the top level here. Everyone on this stage is a top-level fighter. We’re all going to bring our very best Saturday night.

“At this level, everyone hits hard. We’re not fighting cupcakes. Every opponent you get in there with, can hurt you. I’ve been in there with guys who hit extremely hard, and I beat them. It’s nothing new to me.

“We’re here in Las Vegas headlining on SHOWTIME and it’s time for me to let people know that I’ve been at this top level. I want to get those opportunities against the top fighters. The welterweight division is stacked. We have a bunch of great talent and it’s time for some new guys to get their names up there.

“I’m not overlooking Butaev. I have to get past this fight first. But I want to run that back against Yordenis Ugas. He’s a great fighter. I didn’t have a full camp when I fought against him. I don’t like to make excuses – because he was the better man that night. But I think if we both have full camps, it could definitely be a different story.

“I’m not ducking anybody. I want to win Ugas’ title and make there one WBA champion. I definitely would be ready to take on Ennis or whoever it is after that.

“I’m just happy to have this opportunity to get back in the ring. I’m going to listen to my corner and follow through with their instructions. I trust them with my life. If they tell me to be offensive or if they tell me to box, I trust them.

“Representing my city of Minneapolis gives me extreme motivation. When you look at the history of boxing, it’s a sport that brings people together during hard times. It gives people the chance to take their minds off serious trouble they’re dealing with. My city has shown me a lot of love and that gives me extra motivation.”

RADZHAB BUTAEV

“I’ve had a lot of experience in the amateurs and pros. I believe in myself and I believe in my experience. We had a great camp and everything went as planned. On Saturday, I’m here to prove that I’m the next world champion in this division.

“I believe that everything I’ve been through will be the difference in this fight. Fighters have different advantages against different opponents, but the most important advantage is the will for victory. I believe that my will is at the highest level.

“I had a long amateur career, but now that I’m working with Joel Diaz as my trainer, we’re working more on the professional style. I’m working on sitting down on my punches and loading up a little bit more.

“We’re going to bring the action to the ring. That’s what the fans love. I’m bringing that Mexican style. Fans love brawls and that’s what we’re working on. I’m ready to bring the war to the ring.

“I don’t know what’s going to happen in the ring, but I’ll be ready for whatever he brings. I don’t know exactly what he’s going to do, but I’ll be prepared for it.”

JARON ENNIS

“Dulorme said he has experience, but I’ve been boxing all of my life, since before I could walk. I’ve sparred pros since I was 12. This is nothing new to me and he’s going to see that on Saturday night.

“I’m going to continue to do what I’ve been doing, and that’s putting on dominating performances. Everyone knows I’m in and out like a robbery.

“On Saturday night, you can expect fireworks. I’m going to look good and come out victorious in knockout fashion. We’re not looking for the knockout, but we’re going to let it come naturally. And it’s definitely going to come.

“I feel great at welterweight. I can make 147 as long as I want. I’m on weight right now. I’ll be ready to rock and roll Saturday night. Once I get all these belts, then I’ll start thinking about 154 pounds.

“I feel like I’m the most talented welterweight in the division. I’m great at everything. I can fight from either side and I can box or fight on the inside. A lot of guys don’t want to prepare for someone who can do all that I can do. After I make this statement on Saturday night, I’m ready to keep moving up the ladder.

“I’m from Philly, so everyone knows I have that dog in me. It’s been in me. I’m ready to go and move on to bigger and better things.

“I watched some of Dulorme’s fight against Eimantas Stanionis, but I’m not Stanionis. I’m a whole different fighter. Talent wise, skill wise, power wise. I’m on a whole different level. Watching me is one thing, but when you’re in there with me, it’s a whole different thing.

“I’m not worried about what Dulorme did against other fighters. I’m going to do me, and put on a beautiful performance for everyone watching. I’m coming home victorious with that knockout.”

THOMAS DULORME

“I’m very thankful for my team for getting me on this big card. I’m ready for this fight on Saturday night and I’m going to put on a great performance and surprise everyone.

“You don’t always need strength in boxing to overcome obstacles. You need experience and technique. I believe I have those attributes and that it’s going to help me come out on top. I’ve sparred all the best and I’m going to use it in my fight

“On Saturday it’s going to be different because I’m putting in great work, day after day to be ready. We’ve been training to climb back up to the elite. After Saturday, we’ll be back on top of the world again.

“Ennis is a good fighter. But his best win was against Sergey Lipinets, who was a 140-pounder. I don’t think he has the experience yet to overcome a fighter like myself.”

MICHEL RIVERA

“I’ve been training hard for this moment. I know I have to stay in control during this fight. I’m staying focused. I’ve been working hard to show that I’m the future of boxing.

“I know Romero has good experience, but he’s standing in my way. I want to win this fight and get to big fights. I’m going to be the king of 135 pounds. None of the other contenders are going to want to fight me.

“This is a guy [Romero] with experience. I have heavy hands, everyone knows, but I have conditioning too. I’m ready for 15 rounds. I’m just on another level than him. Everyone will know this on Saturday night.”

MATIAS ROMERO

“I learned against Isaac Cruz how to fight here on this stage and what it’s like to fight here in the U.S. This time I’m way better prepared. I got the experience from 12 rounds and I learned a lot. I’m going to be even better in this fight.

“We know each other well and I believe I have everything I need to walk out with the victory. I’m going to listen to my coach and make sure I stay focused from the first round until the end.

“I had a very short camp for my last fight. I prepared as well as I could. I had a much longer and better camp this time. It’s going to be a different performance, and everyone is going to see what I can do.”

#

ABOUT JAMES VS. BUTAEV
James vs. Butaev will see WBA Welterweight Champion Jamal “Shango” James defend his title against unbeaten contender Radzhab Butaev in a 12-round duel that headlines a night of action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, October 30 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features rising welterweight star Jaron “Boots” Ennis in a 10-round showdown against veteran contender Thomas Dulorme in the co-main event. Kicking off the telecast, exciting unbeaten lightweight contender Michel Rivera faces Argentina’s Matías Romero in a 10-round attraction.

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




UNBEATEN TWO-TIME WORLD CHAMPION DAVID BENAVÍDEZ TO FACE SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT CONTENDER KYRONE DAVIS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 13 LIVE ON SHOWTIME® IN PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS EVENT FROMFOOTPRINT CENTER IN PHOENIX

PHOENIX (October 28, 2021) – Unbeaten two-time world champion David “El Bandera Roja” Benavídez will make his homecoming return to Phoenix, Ariz. against 168-pound contender Kyrone Davis in a 10-round match that headlines live on SHOWTIME Saturday, November 13 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Footprint Center.
 
Benavídez was originally scheduled to face former world champion Jose Uzcátegui, who was forced to withdraw due to a failed pre-fight drug test.
 
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will feature the much-awaited return of longtime contender José Benavídez, the older brother of David Benavídez, facing Argentina’s Francisco Emanuel Torres in the 10-round super welterweight co-main event
 
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Sampson Boxing and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and are available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com.
 
Still just 24-years-old, Benavídez (24-0, 21 KOs) enters this fight having knocked out his last four opponents, including a September 2019 knockout of two-time super middleweight champion Anthony Dirrell. Benavídez is trained by his father José Sr., alongside his brother and former title challenger, José Jr. In 2017, he became the youngest super middleweight champion in boxing history by defeating Ronald Gavril on SHOWTIME at just 20 years old. Representing his native Phoenix, and returning to fight there for the first time since 2015 on November 13, Benavídez went from a 15-year-old prodigy sparring with Gennady Golovkin and Peter Quillin, to world title contender with a 10-fight knockout streak from 2015 through 2017, including a highlight-reel knockout of Rogelio Medina with a seven-punch combination that earned him his first title opportunity.
 
A native of Monmouth, N.J., Davis (16-2-1, 6 KO) most recently won an exciting September clash against Martez McGregor, triumphing by decision after eight action-packed rounds. Davis had previously been impressive against the toughest test of his career, as he fought two-time super middleweight champion Anthony Dirrell to a split-draw in February. It was the 26-year-old’s debut at super middleweight, after beginning his career at middleweight. Davis had won five of his six previous outings heading into the Dirrell clash. He is trained by renowned coach Stephen Edwards in Philadelphia, Pa. alongside former unified world champion Julian Williams.
 
# # #
 
 
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sportswww.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.



“Down & Dirty” Official Weights from Massachusetts

SALEM, Mass. (October 28, 2021) – The official “Down & Dirty” weigh in was held today at Reyes Boxing Club in Salem (MA) for tomorrow night’s pro boxing event at Melrose Memorial Hall in Melrose, Massachusetts.

“Down & Dirty” will be streamed live and exclusively on pay-per-view at https://throwdownsports.com/programs/reyes-boxing-10-29-21, starting at 6:30 p.m. ET / 3:30 p.m. PT, for $29.95.

Tickets are priced at $75.00 (General Admission), $90.00 (Reserved), $125.00 (Ringside) and $250.00 VIP (dedicated server on stage) and available for purchase online at https://throwdownsports.com/programs/reyes-boxing-10-29-21 or directly from any of the participating boxers on this show. Limited tickets will be available at the door while they last.

Doors open at 6 p.m. ET, first bout at 7:00 p.m. ET.

Fighters’ official weights below:


OFFICIAL WEIGHTS

MAIN EVENT – ABF CONTINENTAL AMERICAS SUPER WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP (8)

Jeovanis Barraza (22-1, 15 KOs), Barranquilla, Colombia 153 ½ lbs.

Jorge Martin Garcia (13-7-1, 6 KOs), General Lavalle, Buenos Aires, Argentina 153 ½ lbs.

CO-FEATURE — ABF ATLANTIC MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP (8)

Anthony Hines (7-0, 4 KOs), Champion, Dorchester, MA 157 ½ lbs.

Fidel Monterrosa Munoz (39-26-1, 31 KOs), Challenger, Barranquilla, Colombia 157 ½ lbs.

HEAVYWEIGHTS (4)

Dennis Ventura (4-0, 3 KOs), Lynn, MA 235 lbs.

Vercell Webster (1-4-1, 1 KO), Dallas, TX 236 ½ lbs.

Sean Bey (2-0,2 KOs), Providence, RI 222 ½ lbs.

Brandon Grundy (pro debut), Megehee, AR 266 lbs.

WELTERWEIGHTS (4)

Gabriel Morales (2-0, 1 KO), Lowell, MA 145 lbs.

Paulo DeSouza (0-23), Woburn, MA

SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS (6)

Jonathan De Pina (5-1, 3 KOs), Dorchester, MA 135 lbs.

Stacey Anderson (0-7), Falls Church, VA 140 lbs. 136 ½ lbs.

LIGHTWEIGHTS (4)

Alexandro Paulino (4-0, 4 KOs), New London, CT by way of Dominican Republic 137 lbs.

Christian Danilo Guido (8-20, 6 KOs), Tigre, Buenos Aires, Argentina by way of Italy


INFORMATION:

Website: www.ReyesBoxingClub, www.AFightingChanceinc.org

Twitter: @boxing_inc

Instagram: @ReyesBoxing, @FightingChance501c3

LinkedIn: @MichaelReyes

Facebook: /MichaelReyes, /ReyesBoxingInc, #FightingChance501c3




JOSE ZEPEDA-JOSUE VARGAS & CARLOS CARABALLO-JONAS SULTAN PRESS CONFERENCE NOTES & QUOTES

NEW YORK (Oct. 28, 2021) Josue “The Prodigy” Vargas earned his nickname fighting as an amateur growing up in The Bronx. The Puerto Rican-born junior welterweight contender now has the opportunity to notch a career-defining win roughly 10 miles from where he was raised.

Vargas (19-1, 9 KOs) will take on two-time world title challenger Jose “Chon” Zepeda (34-2, 26 KOs) in an ESPN+ 10-round main event Saturday at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden. The winner of this crossroads battle will be in line for a world title opportunity. Vargas has won 13 straight since a controversial disqualification defeat, while Zepeda is one year removed from his Fight of the Year knockout victory over Ivan Baranchyk. Zepeda last fought in May, winning a decision over “Hammerin” Hank Lundy.

In the 10-round bantamweight co-feature, Puerto Rican knockout sensation Carlos “Purin” Caraballo (14-0, 14 KOs) will fight former world title challenger Jonas Sultan (17-5, 11 KOs). Caraballo is coming off March’s eye-opening knockout victory over Leonardo Baez. It was also announced today that Caraballo and Miguel Cotto Promotions entered into a long-term co-promotional pact with Top Rank. 

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets starting at $30 are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting Ticketmaster.com or MSG.com

At Thursday’s final press conference, this is what the combatants had to say.

Jose Zepeda

“He’s a young fighter. He’s a very energetic fighter, but I’ve been there. I have a lot of experience with rated number one and two fighters in the world. Wherever he takes it, I’m going to take it. I already proved I could go as hard as it gets.”

“He’s a young fighter. He still needs a lot of experience. He doesn’t know it. His team probably doesn’t know it yet, but Saturday he will get to see that boxing is not a game. You put your life in there, and he hasn’t been with any top 20 fighters. He’s going to realize what he got into this Saturday.”

“You’re going to see the best of ‘Chon’ Zepeda. Like I said, wherever he takes it, that’s where I’m going to take it. I know I can go all out if I need to. I don’t think it’s going to go there. I just think I’m going to outbox him. He believes he is a better boxer. He believes he’s faster. He definitely doesn’t believe he hits harder.”

“He’s number 56 in the world. Why is he saying {I haven’t fought anyone}? Saturday, like I said, he’s going to find out there’s levels to this.”

Josue Vargas

“I asked for the fight. I hit him up on Instagram a year ago.”

“I’m fighting in my hometown, Madison Square Garden, the main event. I feel ready, very confident. He said I don’t have the experience he has, but hey, I’ve been in the ring {sparring} the best. I can name them. I’ve been in there with Mikey Garcia, Floyd Mayweather, Gervonta Davis, Teofimo Lopez. The list could keep on going.”

“Now that I became a father, I’m fighting for my child now. I’m fighting for more of a reason, and I’m going to give it my all in there. I’m going to perform, I’m going to shine at Madison Square Garden in front of my hometown, and just come out victorious so you can put me in the top five, top 10 at 140 pounds. I deserve this opportunity. I’ve been in this game 14 years, 14 years strong.”

“All I got in my mind is coming out victorious, and I’m confident about that. That’s like 100 percent. That’s the way a fighter has to think. I’m in the sport for a reason, so therefore I give respect to Zepeda for taking the fight because he ain’t have to. He’s ranked {No. 1} by the WBC, so I give props to him because fighting me is a whole different ballgame. The only fighter he’s {fought} with kind of a good style is {Jose} Pedraza. That was it. He’s never faced anyone like me who’s young. I’m 23 years old who has the energy, but not only that, has great footwork.”

Carlos Caraballo

“There is a lot of talk that I’ll be the next superstar from the island. We’re working hard for that, alongside Miguel Cotto Promotions and H2 Entertainment. Now that I’m signed with Top Rank, we’re going to make this happen.”

“Every opponent is difficult. Everyone trains to win. I’m ready to go the 10 rounds, but if the knockout comes, I will go home early.”

“It’s motivating for me to know that big names in Puerto Rican boxing like Miguel Cotto and Felix Trinidad and other great champions have performed here. I’m ready to put on a great performance and be the next fighter to come out of Puerto Rico.”

Jonas Sultan

“I’m very excited for this fight. I’m proud to be here again on a Top Rank card. I’ve been here before. This fight Saturday night, I will show my best fight ever. This is going to {be a great fight} between me and Caraballo. May the best man win, and maybe I’ll be the best man.”

“{IBF junior bantamweight champion} Jerwin Ancajas is my friend and a sparring partner for this fight. He gave me the confidence and motivated me to win this fight. He gave me a lot of techniques, and let’s get ready to rumble for this fight.”

“If I beat Caraballo, it would have a big impact on my career. I would be looking for another world title fight.”

SATURDAY, October 30, 2021

ESPN+, Approximately 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT

Jose Zepeda vs. Josue Vargas, 10 rounds, Zepeda’s WBC Silver 140-pound title

Carlos Caraballo vs. Jonas Sultan, 10 rounds, bantamweight

ESPN+, 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT

Jonathan Guzman vs. Carlos Jackson, 8 rounds, junior featherweight

Mathew Gonzalez vs. Dakota Linger, 6 rounds, junior welterweight

Pablo Valdez vs. Alejandro Martinez, 6 rounds, welterweight

Jahi Tucker vs. Jorge Rodrigo Sosa, 6 rounds, welterweight

Ray Cuadrado vs. Michael Land, 4 rounds, junior lightweight

Kasir Goldston vs. Marc Misiura, 4 rounds, junior welterweight




CAMERON VS. MCGEE + UNDERCARD PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman:

“Good afternoon everyone and welcome back to the second phase of our press conference. Of course, the disappointment that Dillian Whyte will not be fit to fight against Otto Wallin this Saturday but the good news is we have a great fight card ready to go at The O2 this Saturday live around the world on DAZN. When we got the bad news about Dillian Whyte automatically you get asked the question and you have to make the decision on what do you do. Obviously we have an obligation to these men and women to make sure that we deliver for them on many different levels. One to make sure that we advance their careers, two we give them opportunities to fight, we progress their careers, and obviously they get paid as well. It was never in the mind to let these people down. We care for our fighters and there’s a massive opportunity for the people up here on this stage.”

Chantelle Cameron:

“My career has gone from strength to strength, I’m living the life and absolutely loving it.

“This is going to be my toughest fight yet and something I’ve been screaming for years now; I’ve always said I want to face a tough champion and I’ve got it.

“I never change, so, I want to make an exciting fight and Mary’s going to bring that to the ring as well. I feel like my engine is better, I don’t stop.

“It’s all a visualise, all I see. Unified Champion.” 

Mary McGee:

“I’ve trained really hard for this fight; I knew a long time ago that I would be fighting Chantelle because I would listen to her saying she wanted to fight one of the champions – I made sure I prepared for her from that day. When I was offered this fight, I was excited because I knew I could sit next to Eddie Hearn.

“I knew that sitting next to Eddie Hearn, and with Matchroom, was one of the pinnacles of boxing. So, to be a female fighter who used to sell tickets out of her car all night just to get a fight, to sitting up here, I’m more than ready. It’s going to be an exciting fight.

“I started boxing when I was 14, I stayed amateur for maybe five years, after winning the golden gloves a couple years in a row, I needed to make a living for myself, so I went pro. They said you could make $100 a round boxing; it was what I loved to do so I said, ‘hey this sounds like a steal for me’. As I got better and kept winning, I realised that my opponents cost more money, so I had to get out and sell tickets night and day just to get on the card and make sure my opponent got paid.

“I know it’s going to be a tough fight; I’ve watched her beat the hell out of girls and I thought, ‘yeah, I’ve got to make sure I get out there and do my real work’. She’s not coming to lose, I made sure I worked hard for her. I take this fight very seriously.

“I don’t believe so, some of the girls she fought, like the girls she got the title from, she came overweight and out of shape. Chantelle beat her but I can beat someone who’s overweight and out of shape too. Melissa is a good champion, but at Featherweight. I’m a natural Super-Lightweight so I know I have a better chance than those other girls.

“I didn’t come all the way across the pond just to get beat, it’s going to be a rumble in the jungle, like in the Ali days, she’s not going to just beat me believe that.”  

Alen Babic:

“I rate Molina for being here, but I don’t rate him as a tough test of mine. I really don’t think you can fight me on ten days’ notice, he said I don’t respect the Heavyweight division, but he took the fight and training for what – to be a fitness trainer. I think I’m going to smash him and I’m going to do it for my brother Dillian Whyte.

“I want to be knocked out; how can you be fearful when I want to be defeated. I crave it, please somebody defeat me, I love it. I want to take the 0 from my record, I don’t like it. F**k you 0.

“I box for the average Joe. I don’t just want to box for the boxing fanatics, you will value me, it’s just a matter of time. Please come out and support me, I will give it all, I’ll be reckless.”

Eric Molina”

“13-day notice, my wife and my team helped me prepare. Working with the number on promoter in the world, I just can’t say no man. It’s an honour to be here, to be out here halfway across the world, I relish these fights – I just can’t say no, I love it.

“No disrespect to the guys Babic has faced, he’s faced some tough guys. I think Babic is a tough fighter also, in the Heavyweight division, I just don’t think he has the size for this division. I’ve seen some guys even myself, I’m small for this division.

“It’s the Heavyweight division, you have to respect it and stay humble to it. It’s something I’ve learnt in the game, this fight I’ve got to use my experience and size to my advantage.

“He’s got one gear, he comes forward, I think that he’s a fan-friendly fighter because he’s reckless. When you’re reckless, you eventually run into a wreck, that’s what makes it exciting. I feel like my abilities, my counter punches, I think this fight leaves a big opportunity for me to win.

“If you look at all my fights, I’ve landed the big shot, I think Anthony Joshua was the only fight I didn’t. Even looking at the last fight with Wardley who I think is a great fighter also, he took my shots well, but I landed them all night. We’re going to see if he can take those shots on Saturday.” 

Craig Richards:

“This is a fight I wanted, a tough fight, past the British level. He’s ranked above every British fighter behind me so it’s a move forward in my career. I know he’s solid, but this is what I want, a solid test, I want to keep pushing forward, kicking the door down and making waves on the scene.

“I possess a lot of power at 175lbs as you’ve seen in some of my big fights but still, I don’t get the credit that I think I deserve. I feel like sometimes it’s fights like this I’ve got to make sure I go out there and perform, get a good job done on him, otherwise people will put me to the back of the list as always.

“You hear people mention Light-Heavyweights and leave me out of the scene sometimes, although I’ve gone out there and beaten some good names. It’s fights like this I need to go out there and perform well, keep pushing forward until they’ve got no choice but to have my name at the top of the list.

“I believe that eventually everyone’s got to get into the mix right, if you look at me, I’ve been in the mix, I’ve beaten two top five prospects in Britain. I’ve beaten so many domestic talents I could have won the British Title outright, but yet no one talks about that. No other domestic guy has done what I’ve done, yet I’m still left out of the conversation. I’m in the second half of my career now and I’ve got to make it count.” 

Marek Matyja:

“It’s a big chance to fight for the British market and in a British ring, it’s up to my hands and fist to fight my position.

“I saw his fight with Bivol and I saw his good side, but I didn’t come here to emphasise his good side but to use his weak side and win.” 

Johnny Fisher:

“Massive thank you to everyone who’s supported me and to those who are coming on Saturday night. Big thanks to you Eddie for keeping the show on, because there would have been a lot of angry people in Romford looking for you somewhere. My Dad’s been a massive help, up until 2/3 in the morning stressing while doing his job so I’ve got to give him a massive thank you.

“None of it matters unless I put on a good performance on Saturday night. We’ve been working hard in the gym with Mark Tibbs, Jimmy Tibbs and the whole team. It’s now down to me to do the business, everything else has been laid down, it’s now time for me to put on a good performance.

“That’s going to be the challenge for this fight, we’ve been working very hard in the gym to measure my distance correctly and I’ve been sparring very well. I was sparring with Fury up in his gym before this as well, as you said, he’s a game fighter and comes to fight. I think that will and ambition he’s got, it’s my job to crush it, when he comes forward and tries to let his hands go, my speed and power will be telling, he’ll feel it in full force.” 

Youssef Khoumari:

“The camp I had in Portugal was the best camp I’ve ever had; I feel like I’m in the best shape of my life and I’m ready to go on Saturday night – bring more than my A game.

“Like I’ve shown in my last couple of fights I’m ready for whatever comes on the night. I’m tough, I’m ready to go, everybody knows from what they’ve seen I love a war. I’m ready to bring the heat on the night and make it another smoky Saturday.” 

Jorge Castaneda:

“I’m ready to come fight and show the people of the UK a war. I’ve trained really hard for this fight, I know Khoumari is going to bring his A game, he’s going to come and get into a hell of a fight with me, you don’t want to miss it.

“I had to take any opportunity they gave me you know; I didn’t go up in the amateur ranks, I didn’t have any amateur fights. Like I said, in the pro rankings, I’ll take any opportunity they’ll give me to showcase my skills and that I’m a great exciting fighter.

“It’s really motivating for me; I’m fighting for a title against a tough guy. These are the types of fights I need to get closer to a World Title, I know winning this fight will bring me more exciting fights, better paydays, that’s what I want. I want to fight, take this win, take this belt back to my family and to the people of Laredo, Texas.”

Ellie Scotney:

“It’s been a long time coming and I feel like I’m finding my feet now. From Saturday night I’m looking forward to getting the ball rolling.

“I’ve been there seven weeks now and I feel like I’m learning every day, if I show a glimpse of that on Saturday night, I’m going to keep learning from there.

“As soon as I get in the ring Saturday and get the business done, I’m looking to get into those big fights because they’re the ones that matter.” 

Thomas Carty:

“Over the last year, this time last year, I flew out to Derek Chisora’s camp when he fought Usyk and from there it’s been non-stop. I’m delighted to be here now, kicking off my own career on a Matchroom show, which is where everyone wants to be. I’m really looking forward to Saturday night.

“I made my debut in Belgium in May, but over the last year I’ve racked up loads of rounds with quality fighters, so I do feel well experienced – I do need the rounds in the ring. I do feel as though I’ve gained massive experience over the last year sparring these guys, seeing what level they’re training and where they’re at.” 

John Hedges:

“I’m looking forward to it, obviously the first one in front of a crowd and there’s a fair few coming. Obviously with Johnny’s support there’s going to be a lot of Essex in the arena. It’s going to be a good night, great night in Austria recently, I’m fresh from just having a fight. I’m looking forward to it, I’m blessed for the opportunity so thank you very much.

“I had a hard start to the pros; we’ve just been full on since then. We’ve moved to Mark Tibbs’ stable and all of us train hard, fight hard. We haven’t been taking the easiest of fights and it’s been good, I’ve been seeing the progression slowly. My last fight there was a big improvement and I look to do the same again come Saturday. I’m grateful for the opportunity and I think I’m going to shine.”

Jordan Thompson:

“It was scary because I’ve been out of the ring for two years now with a bit of a stop-start career, so when the main event got called off, I was definitely one of those that was worried. Thank you for keeping the card on and giving us all the opportunity to get out there and put on a show still.

“Sparring is sparring, hopefully on Saturday night I’ll go out there and put it into play. I’ve gained some really good experience in the last few years, even I’ve been inactive, I do see myself getting in there and in the mix with things. I won’t be shying away from any fight, so I’ll get some momentum behind me Saturday night, hopefully get out again before the end of the year and next year we get into the mix of things.”




ESPN+ Special Presentation: UFC 267: Blachowicz vs. Teixeira Available Exclusively for All ESPN+ Subscribers at No Additional Cos

Kicking off an unprecedented pair of UFC events on consecutive Saturdays, ESPN+ will make UFC 267 presented by Boost Mobile: Blachowicz vs. Teixeira available to stream for all ESPN+ subscribers at no additional cost as part of a special presentation, live from Etihad Arena on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, this Saturday, October 30.

Just seven days later on November 6, UFC 268: Usman vs. Covington 2, featuring the highly anticipated rematch between UFC welterweight champion and No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter Kamaru Usman and No. 1 contender Colby Covington, will be available to stream on ESPN+ PPV from New York City’s Madison Square Garden. The two back-to-back events – featuring four title fights and 24 top-15 ranked fighters in 29 total bouts – will mark the first time in 10 years UFC will feature two marquee events only one week apart (UFC 137 and UFC 138, October 29 and November 5, 2011).

UFC 267: Blachowicz vs. Teixeira will feature two title fights and many of UFC’s most exciting and explosive rising stars. In the main event, UFC light heavyweight champion Jan Blachowicz (28-8) defends his belt against No. 1 UFC light heavyweight contender Glover Teixeira (32-7). Seeking his second successful title defense, following a five-round decision over Israel Adesanya at UFC 259 earlier this year, Blachowicz, who lives and trains in Warsaw, Poland, is on a five-fight win streak. Teixeira, who fights out of Danbury, Conn., has also won five consecutive fights, having stopped Thiago Santos by third round submission in November 2020.

In the co-main event, Petr Yan (15-2) will fight Cory Sandhagen (14-3) for the UFC interim bantamweight title. Yan is a former UFC bantamweight champion and the current No. 1 contender with 10 wins in his last 11 fights, while Sandhagen is the No. 3 UFC bantamweight contender with nine wins in his last 11 bouts.

UFC 267: Blachowicz vs. Teixeira will stream exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ in English and Spanish. The main card will begin at 2 p.m. ET, and prelims will start at 10:30 a.m. ET.

Also on the UFC 267 card:

  • No. 5 UFC lightweight contender Islam Makhachev will put his eight-fight lightweight unbeaten streak on the line against No. 6 lightweight Dan Hooker, following his win over Nasrat Haqparast at UFC 266.
  • Unbeaten welterweight Khamzat Chimaev will face Li Jingliang, who is coming off a first-round knockout of Santiago Ponzinibbo that earned Li a “Performance of the Night” bonus on Fight Island in January.
  • Rising light heavyweight Magomed Ankalaev, who is riding a six-fight win streak – including three first-round finishes, four knockouts and three “Performance of the Night” bonuses – will face fellow title shot hopeful Volkan Oezdemir.
  • No. 9 ranked UFC heavyweight Marcin Tybura brings a five-fight win streak into the Octagon to face the No. 5 heavyweight Alexander Volkov, who is climbing back into title contention after a hard-fought, five-round loss to UFC interim champion Ciryl Gane.

UFC 267: Blachowicz vs. Teixeira Original Content:

  • UFC 267 Countdown: Blachowicz vs. Teixeira – Behind-the-scenes look at the training camps for the main and co-main fighters. Available to stream on-demand on ESPN+.
  • Unlocking Victory: UFC 267 – Available to stream on-demand on ESPN+.
  • The Chael Sonnen Show w/Jorge Sedano – Former UFC title contender Chael Sonnen gives his unique takes on the most interesting stories in the world of MMA – past, present and future – alongside ESPN’s Jorge Sedano. Available to stream on ESPN+.
  • DC & RC – UFC legend Daniel Cormier and Super Bowl champion, Ryan Clark, both Louisiana natives, hang out and kick around the hottest topics from across the world of MMA. Available on ESPN+ and ESPN’s YouTube channel, as well as audio wherever podcasts are downloaded or streamed.

Key Coverage of UFC 267: Blachowicz vs. Teixeira on ESPN.com  

Interactive Coverage of UFC 267: Blachowicz vs. Teixeira

  • ESPN’s MMA FightCenter – Allows fans on ESPN.com and the ESPN App to follow all the action through fight animations, timely updates, statistics, player cards, injury reports, and more.
  • ESPN’s UFC 267 Pick’Em – Fans can play for free and compete for a chance to win $5,000.
  • ESPN Social Media: @ESPNMMA TwitterFacebook and Instagram.

Fans can sign-up for ESPN+ any time at ESPN.comESPNPlus.com  or on the ESPN App.

Programming (All times ET) 

Friday10/29 6:00 PM UFC Live presented by DraftKings: Blachowicz vs. Teixeira ESPN2
9:30 PM UFC 267 Pre-Show: Blachowicz vs. Teixeira ESPN+
Saturday10/30 10:30 AM UFC 267 presented by Boost Mobile: Blachowicz vs. Teixeira (Prelims) ESPN+
2:00 PM UFC 267 presented by Boost Mobile: Blachowicz vs. Teixeira(Main Card) ESPN+
5:30 PM* UFC 267 Post Show: Blachowicz vs. Teixeira*Immediately following main event ESPN+

UFC 267 Prelims and Main Card

Saturday10/30 ESPN+ 2:00 PMET Main Event Jan Blachowicz (C) vs. Glover Teixeira UFC Light Heavyweight Championship
Co-Main Petr Yan vs. Cory Sandhagen UFC Bantamweight Championship (Interim)
Undercard Islam Makhachev vs. Dan Hooker  
Undercard Alexander Volkov vs. Marcin Tybura  
Undercard Li Jingliang vs. Khamzat Chimaev  
Undercard Magomed Ankalaev vs. Volkan Oezdemir  
ESPN+ 10:30 AMET Prelim Feature Amanda Ribas vs. Virna Jandiroba  
Undercard Ricardo Ramos vs. Zubaira Tukhugov  
Undercard Albert Duraev vs. Roman Kopylov  
Undercard Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos vs. Benoit Saint Denis  
Undercard Shamil Gamzatov vs. Michal Oleksiejczuk  
Undercard Makwan Amirkhani vs. Lerone Murphy  
Undercard Hu Yaozong vs. Andre Petroski  
Undercard Magomed Mustafaev vs. Damir Ismagulov  
Undercard Tagir Ulanbekov vs. Allan Nascimento  



CALEB PLANT VIRTUAL WORKOUT QUOTES

LAS VEGAS (October 27, 2021) – Undefeated IBF Super Middleweight Champion Caleb “Sweethands” Plant held a virtual media workout Wednesday ahead of his highly anticipated 168-pound title showdown against Mexican superstar, four-division world champion and unified WBC/WBO/WBA Super Middleweight Champion Canelo Álvarez taking place Saturday, November, 6 live on SHOWTIME PPV® from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The unbeaten and supremely talented Plant will attempt to earn a career-defining victory and keep his perfect record intact as he makes his fourth world title defense. The winner of the November 6 bout will stamp his name in the history books as the first undisputed 168-pound world champion of the four-belt era.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions and sponsored by Hennessy and Value.

Watch the replay of today’s workout HERE via the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel. Here is what Plant, along with co-trainer Justin Gamber, had to say Wednesday:

CALEB PLANT

“This is personal for me, but every fight is personal for me. I’ve sacrificed a lot for this sport and dedicated myself completely, so anybody who’s getting in the way of my goals makes it personal to me. No matter who it is.

“There are a lot of things that I possess that are going to give him issues in the fight. Every fighter says this is their best camp, but I am honestly saying that. I’ve had no injuries, amazing sparring and I’m ready to rock.

“I have a lot of respect for this sport. I’ve dedicated myself to this sport and sacrificed every day. I want my name in those history books. November 6 is a big step toward that goal.

“I have a big opportunity ahead of me. I haven’t taken any shortcuts in my training. I’m prepared physically, mentally and spiritually. I’m just locked in.

“There have been some guys who lost before the bell even rang against Canelo. I think that’s why he’s so irritated with me. Some guys just come in and are there to hand over their belt, get their check and leave. Anyone who knows me, they know I’m only here for those belts.

“I’m grateful and appreciative of this opportunity. But I’m not here focusing on building my name, I’m here for those belts and for that win. That’s all I’m focused on.

“He says the first few rounds will be tough, but I’m saying all the rounds are going to be tough for him. He’s got a tall order in front of him. Me and my team are focused and ready. I’m just encouraging everyone to tune in, because it’s going to be fireworks.

“This is the best shape I’ve ever been in. You have to train like a world champion, even before you are one, and that’s what I’ve always done. I’m peaking at just the right time. The moment isn’t going to be too big for me. The closer we get, the smaller the moment feels.

“It’s been a long journey for me and my dad (co-trainer Richie Plant). Those tough moments made me the fighter that I am now. I have a great team behind me and we’re all ready for November 6.

“Camp has been great. Sparring has been pushing me hard. I’m just looking to finish out this camp. I can’t wait for the first bell.”

JUSTIN GAMBER, Plant’s Co-Trainer

“The mood is calm in camp. We’re cerebral and collected. To us, this is just another fight. It’s a big fight, but still just another fight. We train the same way and make our small adjustments, but the mood is calm.

“We’re putting the final touches on training and fine-tuning a few technical points in our game. We’re making sure we solidify the game plan.

“The physical attributes Caleb has over Canelo will make a difference if we use them the right way. There have been a lot of guys against Canelo who haven’t been able to use their attributes. Luckily we have the skills to use our height and reach the right way and I expect Caleb to do that on fight night.

“I’m excited about the challenge going up against Eddy Reynoso. He’s a top coach and I respect what he’s accomplished. I look forward to the challenge.

“When you have two alpha dogs in the same room, it’s not going to be calm. There’s always going to be clashing. It doesn’t surprise me. It’s not personal on the teams’ ends, but these are two Pitbulls and they’re ready to go at each other.

“In my opinion, our team is the best team in boxing. Every person on our team is a great asset. They’re all the best at what they do. Chemistry and camaraderie are extremely important when it comes to teamwork. We all get along great and it’s a great environment for Caleb to work in. It’s going to show on fight night.

“Caleb has always stepped up when the time came. He was an underdog in the Jose Uzcategui fight. The lights and size of a fight have never been too big for him. It sounds like Canelo is hoping that’s going to affect him.

“The more on the line, the more Caleb steps up. That’s how it’s been since we met and that’s what it’s going to be on fight night.

“Representing Nashville means everything to us. We want to put Nashville on the boxing map. To have an undisputed champ from Nashville is so important to us. That’s what we’re planning to do November 6.”

#

ABOUT CANELO VS. PLANT
Canelo vs. Plant will see boxing’s consensus No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter, Mexican superstar and unified WBA/WBC/WBO Super Middleweight World Champion Canelo Álvarez face undefeated IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Caleb “Sweethands” Plant in a historic showdown on Saturday, November 6, live on SHOWTIME PPV at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME PPV begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT featuring two-time super middleweight world champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell squaring off against exciting contender “Madman” Marcos Hernández in the 10-round co-main event. Unbeaten former super bantamweight world champion Rey Vargas returns to action against Mexico’s Leonardo Báez in a 10-round attraction on the pay-per-view, while lightweight contenders Elvis Rodríguez and Juan Pablo Romero will duel in a 10-round showdown to kick off the action.

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




CANELO ÁLVAREZ MEDIA CONFERENCE CALL QUOTES

LAS VEGAS (October 27, 2021) – Mexican superstar, four-division world champion and unified WBC/WBO/WBA Super Middleweight Champion Canelo Álvarez previewed his highly anticipated undisputed 168-pound championship showdown during a media conference call Wednesday before he takes on undefeated IBF Super Middleweight Champion Caleb “Sweethands” Plant on Saturday, November 6 live on SHOWTIME PPV from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions and sponsored by Hennessy and Value.

Canelo will look to capture undisputed status for the first time in his Hall of Fame-caliber career as he returns to SHOWTIME where he made his pay-per-view main event debut in September 2013. The winner of the November 6 bout will stamp his name in the history books as the first undisputed 168-pound world champion of the four-belt era.

Here is what Canelo, along with his trainer and manager Eddy Reynoso, had to say Wednesday:

CANELO ÁLVAREZ

“I hope he has a good chin because he’s going to need it on fight night.

“I’m always ready. I just can’t wait. I feel strong and fast. With all of the talk, it’s become personal. He crossed a line. But I have to remain focused, because this is a very important fight for me.

“Caleb has good boxing skills. He has good movement and a good jab. But it’s nothing new for me. I know what I need to do. I need to be patient in the early rounds and then start doing my job.

“Even harder than getting to the top is staying there. That’s why I try to get better each and every day. That’s what I’ve been trying to do from my first fight up until now.

“I’m 100% focused on this fight. There’s nothing else crossing my mind. After it’s over, we’ll figure out who the next opponent will be.

“Being the undisputed champion is huge for my legacy. Not only would it be an honor to be the first Latin American fighter to do it, but there’s only a select club of fighters who have achieved this. Eddy and I said in the beginning that the goal was to be undisputed, and now we’re one fight away.

“Everyone knows what I’m going to do in the ring. When something is personal with me, it’s different. I have something special in my mind and I’m going to make it a great night for us.

“The pandemic made me have to slow down for about a year, so I’m thankful that I’ve been active since then. Things are going fast now, and I love it. I’m thankful to be in this position.”

EDDY REYNOSO, Canelo’s Trainer and Manager

“We’ve been training for four months and preparation has been great. Anticipation is sky-high and we can’t wait for November 6 to get here.

“Caleb is a skilled fighter who knows how to use his legs. If we come out too aggressive in the first few rounds, we’ll give the fight away. We need to be patient and get to the middle rounds so we can do what we want to do.

“Plant has three main attributes: power in his left hand, his movement and his defense. We’re going to come in and fight our own style. We have to use the style we know how to win with.

“Erislandy Lara is probably the closest comparison to Plant amongst Canelo’s past opponents, or even Shane Mosley earlier in Canelo’s career. In the end, no matter what challenge he presents, we’re not worried about our ability to come out victorious.

“This is going to be a tough fight on November 6. It’s going to be a challenge. But in the end, experience will prevail, and we will become undisputed like we set out to do all those years ago.”

#

ABOUT CANELO VS. PLANT
Canelo vs. Plant will see boxing’s consensus No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter, Mexican superstar and unified WBA/WBC/WBO Super Middleweight World Champion Canelo Álvarez face undefeated IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Caleb “Sweethands” Plant in a historic showdown on Saturday, November 6, live on SHOWTIME PPV at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME PPV begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT featuring two-time super middleweight world champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell squaring off against exciting contender “Madman” Marcos Hernández in the 10-round co-main event. Unbeaten former super bantamweight world champion Rey Vargas returns to action against Mexico’s Leonardo Báez in a 10-round attraction on the pay-per-view, while lightweight contenders Elvis Rodríguez and Juan Pablo Romero will duel in a 10-round showdown to kick off the action.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions and sponsored by Hennessy and Value.

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




Super Lightweight Contenders Jean Carlos Torres and Darwin Price Clash in Showdown Topping Non-Televised Undercard This Saturday, October 30 in Premier Boxing Champions Event from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS (October 27, 2021) – Super lightweight contenders Jean Carlos Torres and Darwin Price will meet in a 10-round bout highlighting non-televised undercard action this Saturday, October 30 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

The card is headlined by a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® tripleheader that will see WBA Welterweight Champion Jamal “Shango” James defend his title against unbeaten contender Radzhab Butaev in the main event. In the co-main event, rising welterweight star Jaron “Boots” Ennis steps in for a showdown against veteran contender Thomas Dulorme, while exciting unbeaten lightweight contender Michel Rivera faces Argentina’s Matías Romero in the telecast opener at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.

Non-televised undercard action will also see a pair of once-beaten welterweights duel as Argentina’s Alberto Palmetta (16-1, 12 KOs) faces Colombia’s Yeis Solano (15-1, 10 KOs) in an eight-round fight. Rounding out the undercard are super lightweight prospects David Lopez and Lazarus Velasquez squaring off in their pro debuts for a four-round fight, and unbeaten prospect Jose Sanchez (7-0, 5 KOs) taking on Mexico’s Fernando Garcia (13-3, 8 KOs) in a six-round featherweight attraction.

The 31-year-old Torres (19-0, 15 KOs) fought in the U.S. for the first time since 2016 in his last bout, as he stopped Zack Kuhn in two rounds in June on the Floyd Mayweather vs. Logan Paul undercard. A native of Carolina, Puerto Rico, Torres fights out of the Mayweather Promotions stable and was a sparring partner for three-division champion Gervonta Davis as Davis prepared to face Leo Santa Cruz in 2020. A standout amateur with a 78-15 record, Torres has stopped his last eight opponents inside of the distance ahead of his toughest challenge to date in Price.

Price (17-1, 10 KOs) returned to the ring in April to knock out Saul Corral in the fifth round. His previous outing had come in December 2019 when he suffered a knee injury that forced him to take a TKO loss against Malik Hawkins, in a fight Price led on the scorecards. Originally from St. Louis and now fighting out of Houston, Price was a standout track and field runner at Grambling State University before turning pro and winning his first 16 fights.

#

ABOUT JAMES VS. BUTAEV
James vs. Butaev will see WBA Welterweight Champion Jamal “Shango” James defend his title against unbeaten contender Radzhab Butaev in a 12-round duel that headlines a night of action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, October 30 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features rising welterweight star Jaron “Boots” Ennis in a 10-round showdown against veteran contender Thomas Dulorme in the co-main event. Kicking off the telecast, exciting unbeaten lightweight contender Michel Rivera faces Argentina’s Matías Romero in a 10-round attraction.

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




STAR BOXING AND DIBELLA ENTERTAINMENT SIGN ITALY’S MICHAEL MAGNESI

Long Island, New York (October 27, 2021) Star Boxing’s Rockin’ Fights 40, in association with DiBella Entertainment, will feature an undefeated and reigning World Champion in the featured fight on November 11, 2021.

Making his United States debut, undefeated IBO Super Featherweight World Champion MICHAEL “LONE WOLF” MAGNESI (Lazio, Italy, 19-0, 11 KO’s) will face off against EUGENE “RAMBO” LAGOS (Bukidnon, Philippines, 16-5-3, 11 KO’s) in a 10-round non-title match.

Magnesi crosses the Atlantic for the first time, having recently forged an exclusive co-promotional agreement with New York Boxing Hall of Fame Promoters, JOE DEGUARDIA, of Star Boxing, and LOU DIBELLA, of DiBella Entertainment. With the powerful New York Italian duo of DeGuardia and DiBella, the Italian Champion is poised to become a New York sensation.

DeGuardia, CEO of Star Boxing, had this to say about the signing, “We are thrilled to have signed Italian sensation Michael Magnesi and to feature him on our ‘Rockin’ Fights’ series. Michael is skilled, exciting and marketable and I look forward working with his manager Davide Buccioni and my longtime friend Lou DiBella in making him a NY favorite. We expect big things over the next few years for Michael. Come watch him up close at the Paramount on November 11. There is no better venue to see the action.”

“I am happy to be working with my paesano, Joe DeGuardia, and manager Davide Buccioni, in promoting Michael Magnesi, the reigning IBO Super Featherweight Champion, going forward,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “If Magnesi performs as we expect him to on November 11, against Eugene Lagos, he will be defending his IBO title in his next fight. Pound-for-pound, we think that Magnesi is the best fighter out of Italy today and now we’re getting a chance to show him off to US boxing fans.”

Alongside his IBO World Champion status, Magnesi has formerly held the Italian National, IBF Mediterranean, WBC International Silver and IBO Intercontinental Super Featherweight Championships.

The undercard for “Rockin’ Fights 40” will be announced later this week. Be sure to get your tickets NOW as they have been moving rapidly since Star Boxing announced the November 11th date for “Rockin’ Fights 40”. Doors will open at 7PM




MOLINA – I WILL DEVASTATINGLY KO BABIC!

Eric Molina has confidently predicted that he will become the first man to defeat fast-rising Croatian Heavyweight contender Alen Babic when they collide in a scheduled eight-round contest on the undercard of Chantelle Cameron vs. Mary McGee at The O2 in London this Saturday October 30, live worldwide on DAZN

‘Drummer Boy’ (28-7, 20 KOs) gave Fabio Wardley the toughest test of his career at the Europa Point Sports Complex in Gibraltar earlier this year and heads into his clash with Babic on the back of a third-round knockout win over Alejandro de la Torre in August. 

The two-time World Title challenger from Texas, USA has shared the ring with a who’s who in the Heavyweight division, including losses to Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder, and insists that he isn’t intimidated in the slightest by ‘The Savage’s’ threats and warnings. 

“It’s really not easy to travel as far as we do at short notice, but I firmly believe that I have what it takes to knock this guy out on Saturday,” said Molina. “I look at him as a reckless fighter. I look at him as somebody that has no respect for the Heavyweight division. This Heavyweight division has a very brutal way of humbling fighters at different times. 

“It’s a tough lesson that a lot of fighters have to learn. I’ve learnt it, Anthony Joshua has learnt it, Deontay Wilder has learnt it, the best of the best have learnt it. Babic is going to have to learn that one day to respect this division. 

“He could throw 100 punches in one round. He’s going to need to throw 100 punches to get me out of there in one round. I’ve just got to thrown one punch. One punch and I will devastatingly knock him out. Whatever he thinks in his mind is up to him, I just focus on my energy and my short camp. I know exactly that I’ve got to do.

“I’m not here to talk and I’m not here to prove anything. My resume speaks for itself. I’ve been in with the best. This guy doesn’t intimidate me. I don’t lose any sleep about this fight at all. We’re working on a specific technique to really knock this guy out. I think he gives me every opportunity to do that. 

“I want him to be as confident as possible. I want him to be as cocky as possible. I don’t even want to warn him with what I’m coming with. It’s pointless. I’ve been that guy in the division. I want him to feel it on Saturday, and then I want him to understand. He has never been hit by somebody like me. He is going to get hit really hard on Saturday. We’re going to see what he’s really got.”

Babic vs. Molina is part of a big night of action Greenwich, Chantelle Cameron’s (14-0, 8 KOs) WBC, IBF and Ring Magazine Super-Lightweight Unification clash with the USA’s Mary McGee (27-3, 15 KOs) tops the bill, Craig Richards (16-2-1, 9 KOs) returns to the ring against Poland’s Marek Matyja (20-2-2, 9 KOs) after pushing WBA Light-Heavyweight World Champion Dmitry Bivol all the way in May, Youssef Khoumari (13-0-1, 5 KOs) takes on Jorge David Castaneda (14-1, 11 KOs) for the vacant WBC International Silver Super-Featherweight Title, ‘The Romford Bull’ Johnny Fisher (3-0, 3 KOs) faces Spain’s Alvaro Terrero (5-13-2, 3 KOs) in front of over 1,000 of his fans, Catford Super-Bantamweight Ellie Scotney (2-0) squares off against Eva Cantos (2-1) in her first fight with new trainer Shane McGuigan, Manchester Cruiserweight Jordan Thompson (10-0, 8 KOs) makes his Matchroom debut against Poland’s Piotr Podlucki (6-5, 2 KOs), Takeley Light-Heavyweight prospect John Hedges (3-0) meets Ben Thomas (2-7-3, 1 KO) over four rounds and Dublin Heavyweight Thomas Carty (1-0) has his second professional fight. 




THOMPSON – I’M READY TO MAKE MY MARK ON THE CRUISERWEIGHT DIVISION

Jordan Thompson is itching make his mark on the Cruiserweight scene as he prepares to step through the ropes for the first time as a Matchroom fighter against Piotr Podlucki at The O2 in London this Saturday October 30 after a two year absence from the ring.

The 6′ 7″ powerhouse from Manchester is undefeated in ten fights since making his professional debut in December 2015, with eight of those wins coming inside the distance, and the former tennis star will be looking to make up for lost time after teaming up with Brian Peters and new coach Don Charles. 

“Through lockdown it was tough,” admitted Thompson. “There wasn’t really any light at the end of the tunnel. I was training non-stop. I’m always in the gym and I’m always working hard. When you’re putting in all of that work and there’s no light at the end of the tunnel, it’s tough. There was a lot of ups and downs. There was a lot of conversations that I had with myself. Then I made that connection with Brian Peters who literally just gave me life in the sport and showed me light at the end of the tunnel. 

“Ever since that introduction it’s just been a snowball effect and the good news kept coming and coming and here we are now preparing for my Matchroom debut on a massive bill at The O2. That’s what dreams are made of. I’m very lucky to have a massive loving family and lots of friends. They’ve really supported me through the hard times as well. 

“I’m really keen to get going and just make everyone proud, including myself. I feel like the person that I want to prove a point to more than anyone is myself because I’m the one who’s had those conversations with myself. I’m just trying to make myself proud and my family proud, and then I’ll be a happy man. No matter what has happened in your life, no matter what you’ve done, no matter the good, the bad, the ugly, there’s always light at the end of the tunnel and you can always bounce back from any situation.”

‘Troublesome’, 28, has suffered a stop-start tenure in the paid ranks but can now look forward to progressing in an exciting British Cruiserweight division that contains the likes of new Matchroom stablemates Lawrence Okolie, Tommy McCarthy and Chris Billam-Smith.

“For me to have my Matchroom debut on such a big show at The O2 is surreal. I’ve never boxed at The O2 so it’s an amazing one to tick off the list. I’m really looking forward to it and I’m definitely going to put on a show. I’m a 6′ 7″ Cruiserweight born in Manchester. 10-0, 8 KOs – stayed locked in because there’s more knockouts to come.

 “When I get in the ring, I don’t just get in there thinking, ‘let me get the win on points’. I want to look good and I want to win in style, so I will be going for the knockout and it will come. I’m ready to steal the show and I’m ready to make my mark on the scene and the Cruiserweight division.”

Thompson vs. Podlucki is part of a big night of action Greenwich, Chantelle Cameron’s (14-0, 8 KOs) WBC, IBF and Ring Magazine Super-Lightweight Unification clash with the USA’s Mary McGee (27-3, 15 KOs) tops the bill, ‘The Savage’ Alen Babic (8-0, 8 KOs) clashes with two-time World Title challenger Eric Molina (28-7, 20 KOs) over eight rounds, Craig Richards (16-2-1, 9 KOs) returns to the ring against Poland’s Marek Matyja (20-2-2, 9 KOs) after pushing WBA Light-Heavyweight World Champion Dmitry Bivol all the way in May, Youssef Khoumari (13-0-1, 5 KOs) takes on Jorge David Castaneda (14-1, 11 KOs) for the vacant WBC International Silver Super-Featherweight Title, ‘The Romford Bull’ Johnny Fisher (3-0, 3 KOs) faces Spain’s Alvaro Terrero (5-13-2, 3 KOs) in front of over 1,000 of his fans, Catford Super-Bantamweight Ellie Scotney (2-0) squares off against Eva Cantos (2-1) in her first fight with new trainer Shane McGuigan, Takeley Light-Heavyweight prospect John Hedges (3-0) meets Ben Thomas (2-7-3, 1 KO) over four rounds and Dublin Heavyweight Thomas Carty (1-0) has his second professional fight. 




FIVE FRESH PRELIMINARY MATCHUPS ADDED TO BELLATOR MMA 271: CYBORG VS. KAVANAGH ON FRIDAY, NOV. 12, LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

LOS ANGELES – In addition to the Featherweight World Title main event pitting current 145-pound champion Cris “Cyborg”?(24-2, 1 NC) against No. 5-ranked Sinead Kavanagh (7-4), BELLATOR MMA has added several star-studded matchups to the preliminary portion of BELLATOR MMA 271: Cyborg vs. Kavanagh on Friday, Nov. 12, at Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla. 

SHOWTIME will televise the fantastic five-fight main card live at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. Additionally, the must-watch preliminary fights will stream live three hours earlier at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on the BELLATOR MMA YouTube channel, SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and Pluto TV. 

Tickets for BELLATOR MMA 271: Cyborg vs. Kavanagh are currently on sale at Ticketmaster.com and Bellator.com. Additional bouts will be announced shortly.

In female flyweight action, Miami’s “Master” Valerie Loureda (3-1) hopes to steal the show yet again, as the 23-year-old star prepares for Knoxville’s Taylor Turner (5-7), while Brazilian sensation Bruna Ellen (5-3) challenges the heavy-handed Desiree “Dirty Dez” Yanez (5-3).  

Fighting out of Key West, Fla., the undefeated knockout artist Roman Faraldo (5-0) returns to the BELLATOR cage to face fellow Floridian and Pensacola-native Robert Turnquest (11-7) in a 170-pound contest. Additionally, Roufusport product Jordan Newman (3-0) hopes to keep his perfect record intact in a middleweight showdown against Palm Beach, Florida’s Shane O’Shea (4-2).  

Lastly, former Penn State wrestler and current American Top Team standout Cody Law (4-0) puts his unblemished professional mark on the line in a featherweight clash with Fort Smith, Arkansas’ Colton Hamm (4-3). 

In the co-main event., top-10 heavyweights will go toe-to-toe as No. 5-ranked Tyrell Fortune (11-1, 1 NC) squares up with No. 8 Linton Vassell (20-8, 1 NC).

Rounding out the five-bout SHOWTIME telecast, the always electric and No. 5-ranked Aaron Pico (8-3) will square off against undefeated No. 8 Justin Gonzales (12-0), while No. 1-ranked Arlene Blencowe (14-8) attempts to cement her place as the next in line for a shot at the 145-pound crown against No. 7 Pam Sorenson (9-3). Kicking off the main card, undefeated No. 7-ranked Boca Raton, Fla., resident Steve Mowry (9-0) will continue his quest toward the top of the heavyweight ranks as he takes on veteran Rakim Cleveland (22-13-1, 1 NC).

Updated BELLATOR MMA 271:?CYBORG VS. KAVANAGH MAIN CARD: 

Friday, Nov. 12 – live on SHOWTIME 

10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT? 

Featherweight?World Title Bout: C-Cris “Cyborg”?(24-2, 1 NC) vs. #5-Sinead Kavanagh (7-4) 

Heavyweight Co-Main Event: #5-Tyrell Fortune (11-1, 1 NC) vs. #8-Linton Vassell (20-8, 1 NC) 

Featherweight Bout: #5-Aaron Pico (8-3) vs. No. 8-Justin Gonzales (12-0) 

Featherweight Bout: #1-Arlene Blencowe (14-8)vs. #7-Pam Sorenson (9-3) 

Heavyweight Bout: #7-Steve Mowry (9-0)vs. Rakim Cleveland (22-13-1, 1 NC) 

PRELIMINARY CARD: 

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

7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT? 

Flyweight Bout: Bruna Ellen (5-3) vs. Desiree Yanez (5-3) 

Welterweight Bout: Roman Faraldo (5-0) vs. Robert Turnquest (11-7) 

Featherweight Bout: Cody Law (4-0) vs. Colton Hamm (4-3)  

Flyweight Bout: Valerie Loureda (3-1) vs. Taylor Turner (5-7) 

Middleweight Bout: Jordan Newman (3-0) vs. Shane O’Shea (4-2) 

For more information on upcoming BELLATOR MMA events, please visit?BELLATOR.com.? 

** Card subject to change ** 

Updated schedule of BELLATOR events 

Fri. Nov. 5 // BELLATOR 270: Queally vs. Pitbull 2 // 3Arena // Dublin, Ireland 

Fri. Nov. 12 // BELLATOR 271: Cyborg vs. Kavanagh // Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino // Hollywood, FL 

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

****

About BELLATOR

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

About SHOWTIME 

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




Tyrone Luckey is a throwback fighter, boxing career resurrected

QUINCY, Mass. (October 27, 2022) – In short two years, after signing a contract with Granite Chin Promotions, veteran New Jersey boxer Tyrone “Hands of Stone” Luckey has gone from journeyman to legitimate opponent with a promising upside.

“Guys like Tyrone have a special spot for me,” Granite Chin Promotions president Chris Traietti commented. “I’ve helped to build up his record, developed trust between us, and we’ll see where we go from here. He’s a big Dallas Cowboy fan and he really wanted to fight in AT & T Arena. He dreamed of fighting there and I got him on the Spence-Garcia card, and he got the biggest purse of his life

“He is a fighter’s fighter. Any promoter would be very happy to have 25 like him in their stable. His goal now is to make as much as he can over the next few years and get out with his health. He continues to trust me. He wants to be part of the team and I just signed him to a new 3-year deal. Tyrone has had a bit of a rebirth in his career.”

The former New Jersey Golden Gloves Champion had a 9-12-4 pro record, when he joined the Granite Chin stable, and since then Luckey has won six of nine fights, capturing the ABF USA Mid-American super lightweight title along the way.

“I had no choice but to get better,” Lucky spoke about his resurgence the past two years. “It first changed when I started going to Gladiator’s Gym for help with trainer Shawn Darling. My career in boxing changed since the pandemic started.

The 36-year-old Luckey (15-15-4, 11 KOs), fighting out of Galloway (NJ), is a throwback fighter back to the days boxers only asked when and where they were fighting, no pickin’ and choosin’ soft touches. Evidence of his admirable attitude is the fact he’s fought in six different weight classes, from super featherweight to super welterweight, during his 11-year-pro career.

“I’m not afraid of anyone,” Luckey said. “I fight guys others avoid, even some that world champions wouldn’t fight. I’m able to fight in different weight classes because I know my body and how to properly get done in weight. Right now, I feel comfortable at 140 pounds, and I feel like I have a ton of power at 130 or 135 pounds. I’m naturally small, but psychologically, I’m always the bigger fighter no matter what position I find myself in.”

Luckey’s stock jumped in his last two fights, both against previously unbeaten Eduardo Aguilar, who was knocked out, respectively, in the first round and he couldn’t continue past the sixth round in their most recent fight, in which Luckey dropped Aguilar seven times.

A married man who is and endoscopy technician, Luckey has been saving his boxing purses to eventually buy a house.

“I plan to box until I’m 39, maximum of 40,” Luckey remarked. “I’ll call it quits and maybe become a trainer or pro bowler. I’m trying to get into a sanctioned league (he averages 215 and rolled a perfect 300 game in 2017).”

Luckey and Traietti, also a pro boxer, have a mutually beneficial relationship today. “Our relationship has always been great,” Tyrone confirmed. “I had a fight fallout and the matchmaker set me up with Chris, who was working a fight in Minnesota. He said that after the fight we could talk. He’s a good dude, great promoter. I’m glad our paths crossed because he’s put me in a new situation. I put my faith in him. It’s always love when we talk.”

“We hit it off right away,” Traietti concluded. “He’s easy to work with and will fight anybody. To his credit, he signed with me when it wasn’t really popular, not until 8 to 10 months later. Granite Chin has blown up and my some of my fighters have been performing on some of the biggest cards in boxing.”

Do you feel lucky? Tyrone Luckey certainly does and he’s finally cashing in on all his hard work and perseverance, fighting under the Granite Chin banner.

INFORMATION:

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

Twitter: @Granite_Chin




2021 Highs & Lows for Unbeaten super lightweight “Marvelous” Mykquan Williams

HARTFORD (October 27, 2021) – Unbeaten super lightweight prospect “Marvelous” Mykquan Williams (16-0-1, 7 KOs) has been on a long, strange trip in 2021, starting with his career-defining victory to date last January, unfortunately, followed by a car accident resulting in a wrist injury, leading to the entrepreneurial launch of his “Marvelous” merchandise and products, and last Thursday he became a father for the first time.

“It’s been very frustrating,” Williams said about his injury. “This is what I do; I’m a fighter. At times it has been hard, and I’ve been frustrated the entire time. I’m eager to fight again, but I need to be patient. When the time is right and I’m back 100-percent, I’ll be back in the ring, hopefully, early next year. Now, I have to build-up my wrist, strength-wise.”

Williams was in a car accident this past March 5th, in which he suffered a dislocated right wrist, popped into place that evening in the trauma unit. The next morning, Williams underwent surgery to insert four pins, which left him in a splint for 11 weeks, until the pins were removed May 15th. Therapy and exercises were all he could do, no boxing at all, until he returned to training, and he threw his first punch only three weeks ago.

When a boxer suffers a serious injury to his hands like Williams, it often leaves questions about his or her boxing future. No different for “Marvelous” Mykquan, as he admits.

“Personally,” Williams explained, “I worry about coming back close to where I was, but I keep faith and keep working. People have been very supportive. Sometimes I think about not being able to box again, but I try not to think about that, but that is positioned in my mind.”

“We’re in no rush,” Williams’ head trainer Paul Cichon noted. “We’re doing exactly what his doctors are saying. I believe he’ll be back stronger, and more focused than ever now that he has a son to consider. I think he’ll be back strong in 2022.”

Williams has taken advantage of his downtime to launch his “Marvelous Chili,” as well as a “Marvelous” clothing line and gear, and he’s also looking into purchasing property.

His is life was dramatically altered this past Thursday, when his girlfriend, Zuleyma, delivered his son, Attikus Williams, who weighed in at, as a ring announcer would say, a fit and ready 9-pounds.

Baby 3.jpg
Mykquan & Attikus Williams

As he prepares for his comeback, Williams and Cichon will promote an amateur show November 20th at a venue to be determined.

“We’re hosting the show to help kids at our gym, Manchester ROCS (in CT),” the DiBella Entertainment promoted Williams remarked. “We want to do a couple a year.”

The 23-year-old Williams has already overcome the murder of his father when Mykquan was only one, in addition to having his family house burned to the ground 10 years later. A dislocated wrist has no chance of making him less than “Marvelous.”




Reyes Boxing’s “Down & Dirty” FACT SHEET

WHAT: “Down & Dirty” professional boxing

WHO: The Line-Up

MAIN EVENT – ABF CONTINENTAL AMERICAS SUPER WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP (8)

Jeovanis Barraza (22-1, 15 KOs), Barranquilla, Colombia

vs.

Jorge Martin Garcia (13-7-1, 6 KOs), General Lavalle, Buenos Aires, Argentina

CO-FEATURE –VACANT ABF MID-ATLANTIC LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP (6)

Jonathan Depina (5-1, 3 KOs), Boston, MA

vs.

Gonzalo Carlos Dallera (13-7-1, 6 KOs), Ciudadela, Buenos Aires, Argentina

ABF ATLANTIC MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP (8)

Anthony Hines (7-0, 4 KOs), Champion, Dorchester, MA

vs.

Fidel Monterrosa Munoz (39-26-1, 31 KOs), Challenger, Barranquilla, Colombia

HEAVYWEIGHTS (4)

Dennis Ventura (4-0, 3 KOs), Lynn, MA

vs.

Vercell Webster (1-4-1, 1 KO), Hattiesburg, MS

Sean Bey (2-0,2 KOs), Providence, RI

vs.

Brandon Grundy (pro debut), Draper, UT

SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS (4)

Brandon Idrogo (4-1, 4 KOs), Ellenville, NY

vs.

Stacey Anderson (0-7), Falls Church, VA

LIGHTWEIGHTS (4)

Alexandro Paulino (4-0, 4 KOs), New London, CT by way of Dominican Republic

vs.

Christian Danilo Guido (8-20, 6 KOs), Tigre, Buenos Aires, Argentina by way of Italy

Gabriel Morales (2-0, 1 KO), Dracut, MA

vs.

Juan Garcia (pro debut), Carrie Springs, TX

WHEN: Friday, Oct. 29, 2021

WHERE: Melrose Memorial Hall, Melrose, MA

PROMOTER: Reyes Boxing

TICKETS: Priced at $75.00 (General Admission), $90.00 (Reserved), $125.00 (Ringside) and $250.00 VIP (dedicated server on stage) and available for purchase online at https://throwdownsports.com/programs/reyes-boxing-10-29-21 or directly from any of the participating boxers on this show. Limited tickets will be available at the door while they last.

LIVE STREAM: Streamed live and exclusively on pay-per-view at https://throwdownsports.com/programs/reyes-boxing-10-29-21, starting at 6:30 p.m. ET / 3:30 p.m. PT, for $29.95.

OFFICIAL WEIGH IN: Thursday, Oct. 28, 2021 @ 1 p.m. ET Reyes Boxing Club (Salem Fitness Center), 38 Swampscott Road, Salem, MA — MANDATORY FACE MASKS MUST BE WORN INDOORS IN SALEM — PUBLIC WELCOME

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

INFORMATION:

Website: www.ReyesBoxingClub, www.AFightingChanceinc.org

Twitter: @boxing_inc

Instagram: @ReyesBoxing, @FightingChance501c3

LinkedIn: @MichaelReyes

Facebook: /MichaelReyes, /ReyesBoxingInc, #FightingChance501c3




GABRIEL ROSADO MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES

HOLLYWOOD, CA (October 26, 2021) – The people’s champion “King” Gabriel Rosado (26-13-1, 15 KOs) hosted a media workout ahead of his showdown against Jaime Munguia (37-0, 30 KOs) on November 13th at Anaheim’s Honda Center. Rosado was on hand to speak to the media about his upcoming fight in addition to showing off some of his training alongside Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach. Rosado is set to face Munguia in a 12-round all-out-war for the WBO Inter-Continental Middleweight World Championship, live exclusively on DAZN worldwide, excluding Mexico, starting at 6:00 p.m PT.

Below is what the fighter and his trainer had to say about the upcoming Mexico vs. Puerto Rico battle.

“KING’ GABRIEL ROSADO, MIDDLEWEIGHT CONTENDER

“Freddie has taught me to be disciplined, sticking to game plan, and everyday getting better and better.

“I define this fight as a historical fight, a legacy fight. This fight will go down in the history books, featuring two latino: a Mexican warrior and a Puerto Rican warrior. We are gonna clash and the fans will win.

“This fight means everything, this is the reason why I got with Freddie. It was to take it to the next level. I have always had the skill, have always had the ability, but I knew that for me to take it to that world class level I had to get with a trainer that knows what it takes to get there, guide me there, lead me there. Getting with Freddie is just bringing out the best of me.

“I feel like I am still 25, I feel great, I am blessed, I am healthy. In this fight he is the younger guy and I understand what it means to be the younger fighter. But I need to use my experience and my boxing ability to make him pay for his mistakes.

“You can teach a lot, but you can’t teach experience. I feel like I have fought the tougher fighters so I definitely have experience on my side. Like I said, I am healthy, I am strong. I am not fading. I am just getting better.

FREDDIE ROACH, HALL OF FAME TRAINER

“This fight is going to be fun. Erick Morales and I have known each other for a while. We are both doing well as trainers, so may the best man win.

“I think this is going to be a really good fight. You have two really good fighters in a real fight. This is what boxing is all about. I think we got lost a little bit with celebrity boxing but this is two real fighters going into a real fight. I love this.

“Gabriel is very clever and he’s a very good boxer, but we’re fighting a veteran ourselves and a very good puncher so we have to be very careful. Both fighters have a lot of heart and that makes this fight interesting, it’s gonna be a ‘Fight of the Year’ type of fight.

“I know I have to worry about Munguia’s punching power and his strength so I have to work on staying away from those situations and countering when Munguia makes mistakes. This is going to be a very psychological fight and I think the the person who’s mentally ready for this fight is going to win this fight.

“In his last fight, Gabriel took a knee and then he looked at me, and I knew when he looked over at me, I knew everything was okay. I thought at that moment, ‘your opponent is coming to finish this now because he’s a great puncher and he he knocks a lot of guys out’ and Gabriel just flipped the coin and finished him. It was a great win for us for sure

“The Mexico vs. Puerto Rico rivalries always produce great fights. The Puerto Ricans are are very good fans and the Mexicans are very good fans and it’s gonna be a great night. I can’t wait for this fight to happen.”

#

Tickets for Munguia vs. Rosado are on sale now and are priced at $250, $150, $100, and $50 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase at ticketmaster.com. Please note that California Department of Health guidelines and other protocols relating to admission requirements may be in place for this event, which may include a requirement that all guests show proof of a negative COVID-19 test or full vaccination status.

Munguia vs. Rosado is a 12-round fight for the WBO Intercontinental Middleweight Title presented by Golden Boy in association with Zanfer Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate “The Official Beer of Boxing,” Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle,” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Saturday, November 13, and live exclusively on DAZN worldwide, excluding Mexico, starting at 6:00 p.m. PT / 9:00 p.m. ET.

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

ABOUT HONDA CENTER
Nestled in the heart of Orange County, Honda Center stands as one of the premier entertainment and sports venues in the country. Owned by the City of Anaheim and managed by Anaheim Arena Management, LLC, the arena is home to the 2007 Stanley Cup champion Anaheim Ducks, and annually hosts dozens of top-name concerts such as The Rolling Stones, Justin Timberlake, Ariana Grande, J. Cole, and Foo Fighters. Since 2005, Anaheim Arena Management/Anaheim Ducks owners, Henry and Susan Samueli, have invested millions of dollars into facility upgrades, continuously improving the guest experience at Honda Center.